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__label__wiki	0.613316	0.613316	AWS bets on AI smarts by news intoAI \| Feb 28, 2018 \| News Stories AWS local boss Paul Migliorini says that as business needs evolve, the platform can do a lot of heavy lifting on how organisations use machine learning. “Not all businesses need to build their own AI stack; many of them want to focus on their use cases and their... Data Scientist – Deep Learning GE has a career opportunity for a Data Scientist in Deep Learning. Link to Full Article: Read... AWS Looks to ‘Demystify’ Machine Learning Noting that most machine learning models built by enterprises never make it to production, the AWS engineers pitched several new tools including its SageMaker machine and deep learning stack introduced in November. Described as a tool for taking the “muck” out of... Amazon Web Services used a big data conference in the backyard of some of its largest government customers to showcase its AI and machine learning tools that are helping to funnel ever-larger volumes of data into its storage and computing infrastructure. Making a... Coursera Data Science Capstone Project Coursera Data Science Capstone. Jen 2/28/2018. Johns Hopkins University Data Science Specialization Capstone Project. Overview. This presentation is for the Johns Hopkins University Data Science Specialization Capstone. The Shiny application can be visualized at the... Product Owner – Machine Learning for Healthcare GNS Healthcare is hiring for a Product Owner – Machine Learning for Healthcare in Boston. Find more details about the job and how to apply at Built In Boston. Link to Full Article: Read... cliexaÂ® Partners with Institute of Cognitive Science at University of Colorado Boulder … announces its collaboration with CU Boulderâ€™s CANLab and Institute of Cognitive Science (ICS). cliexa will collaborate with CANLabâ€™s team, headed by Tor Wager, a professor of psychology and neuroscience, as they lead in multidimensional pain tracking and... Head of Data Science The Head of Data Science will use of Big Data and Advance Analytical techniques to turn insights into actionable recommendations to drive disproportionate value to Campbell's business. The incumbent will need to have a strong Computer Science background, knowledge... Intel Dangles Machine Learning Chips at the Edge Intel Dangles Machine Learning Chips at the Edge. Link to Full Article: Read... SenseTime join hands with MIT to advance artificial intelligence research SenseTime was founded by MIT alumnus Dr Xiao'ou Tang and specializes in computer vision and deep learning technologies. The MIT-SenseTime Alliance on Artificial Intelligence aims to open up new avenues of discovery across MIT in areas such as computer vision,... Paul Allen pledges $125 million to teach artificial intelligence some common sense Microsoft co-founder Paul G. Allen has committed $125 million to back the Allen Institute for Artificial Intelligence (AI2) and launch a new project studying ways to teach artificial intelligence to develop common sense. The funds will support a program called... SenseTime, a leading Asian artificial intelligence (AI) company, is joining MIT's efforts to define the next frontier of human and machine intelligence. It is the first company to join a new Institute-wide initiative, the MIT Intelligence Quest, since its launch... Cutting Out Gluten May Help Some Battle Nerve Pain Dr. Anthony Geraci directs the Neuromuscular Center at Northwell Health's Neuroscience Institute in Manhasset, N.Y.. He wasn't involved in the new study, but agreed that adopting a gluten-free diet may help some, but not all, patients with neuropathies linked... Edifecs launches health care AI platform that can help fight opioid abuse Bellevue-based health care IT company Edifecs on Tuesday unveiled a machine learning and artificial intelligence platform that will run a suite of applications to address health care challenges such as tracking opioid abuse. Edifecs CEO Sunny Singh said this is the...	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4071
__label__wiki	0.707103	0.707103	February 1885, Volume 41, Issue 1-4 Errata et Corrigenda Quarterly Journal of the Geological Society, 41, ERR, 2 February 1885, https://doi.org/10.1144/GSL.JGS.1885.041.01-04.01 On the Mammalian Fauna of the Val d'Arno C.J. Forsyth Major Quarterly Journal of the Geological Society, 41, 1-8, 2 February 1885, https://doi.org/10.1144/GSL.JGS.1885.041.01-04.2 Proceedings of the Geological Society of London Quarterly Journal of the Geological Society, 41, 1-204, 2 February 1885, https://doi.org/10.1144/GSL.JGS.1885.041.01-04.03 On some Recent Discoveries in the Submerged Forest of Torbay D. Pidgeon Quarterly Journal of the Geological Society, 41, 9-22, 2 February 1885, https://doi.org/10.1144/GSL.JGS.1885.041.01-04.4 The Cretaceous Beds at Black Ven, near Lyme Regis, with some supplementary Remarks on the Blackdown Beds W. Downes Quarterly Journal of the Geological Society, 41, 23-27, 2 February 1885, https://doi.org/10.1144/GSL.JGS.1885.041.01-04.5 Note on the Resemblance of the Upper Molar Teeth of an Eocene Mammal (Neoplagiaulax, Lemoine) to those of Tritylodon On the Discovery in one of the Bone-caves of Creswell Crags of a portion of the Upper Jaw of Elephas primigenius, containing in situ the first and second Milk-molars (right side) A. T. Metcalfe Quarterly Journal of the Geological Society, 41, 30, 2 February 1885, https://doi.org/10.1144/GSL.JGS.1885.041.01-04.7 Notes on Remains of Elephas primigenius from one of the Creswell Bone-caves On the Stratigraphical Positions of the Trigoniæ of the Lower and Middle Jurassic Beds of North Oxfordshire and adjacent Districts Edwin A. Walford On the recent Discovery of Pteraspidian Fish in the Upper Silurian Rocks of North America E. W. Claypole Quarterly Journal of the Geological Society, 41, 48-64, 2 February 1885, https://doi.org/10.1144/GSL.JGS.1885.041.01-04.10 On a new Deposit of Pliocene Age at St. Erth, near the Land's End, Cornwall Searles V. Wood Note on a Section near Llanberis A. H. Green On some West Indian Phosphates George Hughes On the Lower Eocene Plant-beds of the Basaltic Formation of Ulster J. Starkie Gardner The Tertiary Basaltic Formation in Iceland Quarterly Journal of the Geological Society, 41, 93-101, 2 February 1885, https://doi.org/10.1144/GSL.JGS.1885.041.01-04.15 The Drift-deposits of Colwyn Bay T. Mellard Reade Quarterly Journal of the Geological Society, 41, 102-107, 2 February 1885, https://doi.org/10.1144/GSL.JGS.1885.041.01-04.16 Notes on Species of Phyllopora and Thamniscus from the Lower Silurian Rocks near Welshpool, Wales George Robert Vine The Boulder-Clays of Lincolnshire. Their Geographical Range and Relative Age A. J. Jukes-Browne The Metamorphosis of Dolerite into Hornblende-schist J. J. H. Teall On the S. W. Extension of the Clifton Fault On Fulgurite from Mont Blanc; with a Note on the Bouteillenstein, or Pseudo-chrysolite of Moldauthein, in Bohemia Frank Rutley On Brecciated Porfido-rosso antico On hollow Spherulites and their Occurrence in ancient British Lavas Grenville A. J. Cole On some new or imperfectly known Madreporaria from the Great Oolite of the Counties of Oxford, Gloucester, and Somerset Robert F. Tomes Sketch of the Geology of New Zealand F. W. Hutton On the Granitic and Schistose Rocks of Northern Donegal C. Callaway On a Skull of Ovibos moschatus from the Sea-bottom W. Boyd Dawkins On the Geology of the Rio-Tinto Mines, with some General Remarks on the Pyritic Region of the Sierra Morena J. H. Collins On the Geological Position of the “Weka-pass Stone” of New Zealand Chilostomatous Bryozoa from Aldinga and the River-Murray Cliffs, South Australia Arthur Wm. Waters On the Ostracoda of the Purbeck Formation; with Notes on the Wealden Species T. Rupert Jones On the Tertiary and Older Peridotites of Scotland John W. Judd On the Structure of the Ambulacra of some Fossil Genera and Species of Regular Echinoidea P. Martin Duncan Evidence of the Action of Land-Ice at Great Crosby, Lancashire On an almost perfect Skeleton of Rhytina gigas (Rhytina Stelleri, “Steller's Sea-Cow”), obtained by Mr. Robert Damom, F.G.S., from the Pleistocene Peat-deposits on Behring's Island Henry Woodward Note on the Sternal Apparatus in Iguanodon J. W. Hulke The Lower Palæzoic Rocks of the Neighbourhood of Haverfordwest J. E. Marr and T. Roberts General Section of the Bagshot Strata, from Aldershot to Wokingham A. Irving On the so-called Diorite of Little Knott (Cumberland), with further remarks on the Occurrence of Picrites in Wales T. G. Bonney Supplementary Notes on the Deep Boring at Richmond, Surrey John W. Judd and Collett Homersham Note on the Zoological Position of the Genus Microchœrus, Wood, and its Apparent Identity with Hyopsodus, Leidy R. Lydekker On the Igneous and Associated Rocks of the Breidden Hills in East Montgomeryshire and West Shropshire W. W. Watts On the Correlations of the “Curiosity-Shop Bed” in Canterbury, New Zealand On the Fossil Flora of Sagor, in Carniola Constantin Baron von Ettingshausen A Sketch of the Goldfields of Lydenburg and De Kaap, in the Transvaal, South Africa W. Henry Penning On some Erratics in the Boulder-clay of Cheshire, &c., and the Conditions of Climate they denote Charles Ricketts Entire Issue ($475) The Mesoproterozoic Stac Fada proximal ejecta blanket, NW Scotland: constraints on crater location from field observations, anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility, petrography and geochemistry A reassessment of the proposed ‘Lairg Impact Structure’ and its potential implications for the deep structure of northern Scotland Fossil biomass preserved as graphitic carbon in a late Paleoproterozoic banded iron formation metamorphosed at more than 550°C The Mazon Creek Lagerstätte: a diverse late Paleozoic ecosystem entombed within siderite concretions The Carnian pluvial episode (Late Triassic): new insights into this important time of global environmental and biological change	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4077
__label__wiki	0.521494	0.521494	Ancient Aphrodite Sculpture Back in Sicily Published on 17 May 2011 29 March 2019 by Melanie Renzulli On Tuesday, the Museo Archeologico di Morgantina, a small archeological museum in Aidone (Enna), Sicily, held an inauguration for the repatriation of an ancient sculpture of Aphrodite. On Tuesday, the Museo Archeologico di Morgantina, a small archeological museum in Aidone (Enna), Sicily, held an inauguration for the repatriation of an ancient sculpture of Aphrodite. The stone deity, known in Italian as the Dea Morgantina, had been a prized possession of the Getty Museum in Los Angeles until L.A. Times journalists Jason Felch and Ralph Frammolino uncovered that the Getty had illicitly acquired the Aphrodite and several dozen other ancient works of art that had been stolen from Italy and sold on the arts black market. This fascinating tale of the underbelly of the antiquities trade and the Getty’s role in the acquisition of looted art is the subject of Felch and Frammolino’s new book, “Chasing Aphrodite: The Hunt for Looted Antiquities at the World’s Richest Museum.” The Getty and many other top American museums are part of a long history of illicit art trade. Looted art has been trafficked for as long as art has been in existence, and Frammolino says this is due to the overpowering effects of antiquity. “People who come in contact with antiquities — the history of it, the beauty of these antiquities, the thought that maybe somebody great had once possessed this — they lose reason” [Listen to the full audio of the journalists’ interview with NPR’s Renee Montagne] While Los Angeles and the Getty Museum may still be reeling over the loss of such an iconic statue, Aidone has been readying for the repatriation of the Morgantina for decades. The Morgantina museum has devoted a new room for the display of the Aphrodite, which will complement Demeter and Kore, two other looted-and-since-returned statues, and other artifacts unearthed from this area of Sicily which was once part of Magna Grecia (Greater Greece). Following is a short video (in Italian) which provides a comprehensive look at the Dea Morgantina and its new home. Photo © AP/via NPR Art & Architecture, Italy News, Sicilyarcheology, arts, audio, books, Sicily, video Upcoming Fundraiser at the Sistine Chapel Turns Heads Cortili Aperti – Italy’s Open Courtyards Previous Previous post: Video: Italian Hand Gestures [Video] Next Next post: Some Suggestions for Driving in Italy	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4083
__label__cc	0.741026	0.258974	Clock Shadow McNeil said I should watch RAW DEAL (1948) as research for a project I'm working on - NONE OF YOUR BEESWAX WHAT. I haven't seen it since Dr. Theresa and I used to rent VHS tapes from a place called "Movies Worth Seeing" in Atlanta. VHS TAPES! Anyway, McNeil was right. And this is beside the point but look at all these shadows. RAW DEAL has the most shadows of any movie. Look at Claire Trevor. She's got the clock! She's got the veil! So many shadows. RAW DEAL! Labels: Atlanta, beeswax, shadowy Pee Caught Fire A guy on twitter thought my short story "Lumber Land" was inspired in part by a 17th-century alchemist who distilled 50 buckets of pee until the distilled pee glowed in the dark and spontaneously caught on fire. Nope! First I'm hearing of it. It's a coincidence, though it's just the kind of story I like, and as my twitter friend points out, my protagonist complains that his urine is phosphorescent and then discusses his plans for a hamburger restaurant called "Amburger" (the alchemist in question lived in Hamburg). I guess I just think like an alchemist! Incidentally, the Amburger concept is solid. If any of you are investors, read the story and get back to me. "Blog"trospective 15: Feeding a Possum Welcome to the newest of our famous "blog"trospectives! So far I have "blogged" about feeding a possum just four times, and at least one of those is iffy. I doubt I will ever "blog" about feeding a possum again! But who knows? Anyway, I foresee easy maintenance, even easier than maintaining our seldom-updated "blog"trospective about monkeys riding dogs. And so I proudly give you this convenient record of all past "blog" "posts" about FEEDING A POSSUM: feeding a possum bread crusts---feeding a possum a hot dog (attempted)---feeding a possum a tuna fish sandwich---giving a possum a cup of coffee---possum eating cat food. Labels: cats, fish, hot dogs, proud Possum on a Leash Saw George Singleton today. He told me about the time he successfully put a possum on a leash and fed it part of a tuna fish sandwich. The problem was getting the leash off. Rich Gangs of Jerks And now I am reading about the "gangs of gentlemanly thugs" who used go around London in the 16th and 17th centuries, just randomly beating up people "of any age and both genders"! "The first named gang appears to have been 'The Damned Crewe,'" says this book. They were just rich drunk jerks! Labels: drunk, jerks, money A Funny Fellow The 18th-century collector of slang Francis Grose "picked up much of his research first-hand during his nightly wanderings through London's criminal slums, accompanied, so it has been claimed, only by his man Batch and later by his companion, 'a funny fellow' properly named Tom Cocking, whom he christened 'The Guinea Pig.'" - THE VULGAR TONGUE by Jonathon Green. Anyway I want to hang out with those guys. Especially Batch. Batch! Labels: butlers Mashed Thumb As promised, I looked up "sore as a boiled owl" in my GREEN'S DICTIONARY OF SLANG. Under "sore as..." we have "very angry, annoyed, in various comparative phrs., incl. sore as a boil, ...boiled owl, ...gum boil, ...pup, ...sore as sox, ...sorer than a mashed thumb." We find that "sore as a boil" predates by some time "sore as a boiled owl," so I like to think that the person who first said "sore as a boiled owl" was getting the older phrase "drunk as a boiled owl" mixed up with "sore as a boil." Maybe he or she started to say "sore as a boil" and "sore as a boiled owl" just came rolling out of his or her mouth! And everyone found it charming and apt. Apt! That's what I like to think! I'm just making up stories in my head. Email from McNeil: "There was a story on CNN.com about Malawi executing owls and I thought about you." Perverse! McNeil's phrasing (misleading in every way, as we shall see) made me curious, and with some trepidation I researched what promised to be an unpleasant tale. Turns out the owls were "nearly shot" for being bad luck but then the guy with the gun changed his mind and nothing bad happened to the owls. You know, I don't even care that much about owls. Labels: drunk, gum, heads, perversity, socks, thumb Bowdow Combing through the volumes of GREEN'S DICTIONARY OF SLANG, checking out the owl situation, getting to the bottom of this "drunk as a boiled owl" business. I used all three volumes (A-E, F-O, P-Z) to write this "post," aren't you proud? And so I slip slowly into my twilight years of muttering to myself. Here's "owl-eyed," meaning drunk, and yes, I can see that, especially since Cole Sanchez sent me a "link" to a "web" site called "Hungover Owls" or something - why won't I "link" to it here? I don't know! Did some of those owls look exploited? Probably not. I got depressed for some reason. (See also.) But owls do look drunk, apparently. I should have figured that out before now. Which came first, though, the owl or the boiling? I guess that was my primary concern. WHY BOIL THE OWL? The first printed example they give of someone being "drunk as a boiled owl" comes from 1862, though someone was "as drunk as an owl" - a plain old owl, non-boiled - in 1770. BUT! That made me look up "boiled," and in 1877 "there is a balm for a headache caused by last night's debauch to have it said you were 'slightly cheered' or 'stewed' or 'boiled.'" But that's a little later than the boiled owl. So did the boiling of the owl come first? I THINK NOT. Because I looked up "stewed" - meaning drunk - and that goes back as far as 1616. And obviously being "boiled" is a variation on being "stewed" so when you're "as drunk as a boiled owl" maybe you're "as drunk as a drunk owl," huh, well, that's a little redundant. You can be as drunk as a lot of different things according to this book, including a "bowdow," which I guess is a mishearing of "boiled owl" - the book doesn't say that, I'm just guessing. Hmm, looking back I see that the original phrase that puzzled me was "sore as a boiled owl," which does make more sense now, but I think I need to get out Volume Three again and have a go at "sore." This is my life now. Labels: combing, drunk, heads, proud, stew Paper Boat Reading in this history of slang about a cool Elizabethan guy named John Taylor who did all kinds of crazy things, including rowing "some forty miles in a boat of varnished brown paper, kept buoyant by eight inflated bullocks' bladders, and powered by 'oars' made of giant dried fish tied to canes." PLUS I just got back from the post office, where I picked up my expensive used copy of Green's three-volume DICTIONARY OF SLANG, which by definition (Green's own definition! In this history of slang he writes that "the need for a level of perceived secrecy remains: when a slang word is coined it may well enjoy a period, however brief, of 'invisibility'. But once it has become 'revealed', then the immediate need is for re-coinage") is a foolish purchase, obsolete from the moment it was published, but I like obsolete things. The first thing I'm going to do is look up owls, and not because it will force me to put GREEN'S DICTIONARY OF SLANG on my list of books with owls in them, which is frankly a grim chore, but because maybe I'll finally find out why owls are portrayed as drunken in so many forms of expression. But I'm kind of scared to look! Is it that I'm reluctant to solve one of the mysteries that haunt me? Is it that I'm afraid the answer won't be there? Honestly, who cares. I'm going to lie down now. Labels: brown, drunk, fish, floating, giant, invisible people or things, money, mysterious, secrets, the queen Owls, Monkeys and Oysters I must say I was not surprised at all to run across owls on page 100 of THE VULGAR TONGUE: GREEN'S HISTORY OF SLANG. In the 17th century, women who worked in a brothel were called, among other things, "owls, monkeys and oysters." On another subject entirely - ENTIRELY! - I received a copy of ADVENTURE TIME: THE ART OF OOO from its publisher. I flipped it open and happened to find this quotation from Pen: "One day I walked into Adam's office and saw some doodles on his desk; one of them was of these two overlapping ovals that he had made into eyes, and the body around it was a screaming fat owl with stars in its wings..." This is the origin of the Cosmic Owl, the inspiration for which is revealed later in Pen's comments to come from the way "the light hits one of the urinals" in a men's room at Cartoon Network: "it bounces off and casts this mystical face on the wall in front of you - just starin' at ya." But here's the thing! The other day I caught the last part of the movie 2001 on TCM and I saw the Cosmic Owl! It's in the part where the astronaut is going to crazy land, you know. Here's the frame (above). I'm telling you, it's the Cosmic Owl. Labels: adventure, light, mystic, oysters, TCM, the cosmos Frith! I've encountered the name Frith three times recently. Is that strange? Probably not! The butler's name in REBECCA is Frith. Then Megan Abbott was staying in a hotel on Frith Street or Frith Road in London. I was curious about the address because I was going to check out my handy GAZETTEER OF BRITISH GHOSTS to find any nearby ghosts for her convenience. Unfortunately I am ill-instructed in the use of a gazetteer and ignorant of the geography of London. (Megan did say on twitter that was visiting Stirling, Scotland, where reside "TWO famous ghosts: the Green Lady & the Pink Lady [unrelated].") Then I was reading in Jonathon Green's history of slang - THE VULGAR TONGUE it's called - about Mary Frith (pictured), also known as "Moll Cutpurse," a 17th-century high-end fence of jewelry and such. She also specialized "in stealing and returning shopbooks and account ledgers that had specific value only to business owners." She dressed like a man and scandalously frequented tobacco houses! In fact she once suffered official public punishment for dressing like a man. A letter-writer reported to a friend, "she wept bitterly and seemed very penitent, but yt is since doubted she was maudelin druncke, beeing discovered to have tipled of three quarts of sacke before she came to her penaunce." Who wouldn't? There was a play written about her in 1611, THE ROARING GIRLE, and she "even appeared on stage at the Fortune Playhouse. She was dressed as a man and closed the evening's performance with a jig." A great typo in this edition says that she died in 1859, which would have made her 275. I've noticed a few other typos so far. Get it together, Oxford University Press! Ha ha, that jaunty admonition was supposed to be the end of this "post," but it strikes me as I type this that the name Frith may not have been a coincidence in the novel REBECCA. The late Rebecca is often praised and just as often decried for seeming like a man, and our nameless narrator offers to to be more like a boy for her husband (!), and I think there is at least one other woman in the book who is described explicitly as boyish, hmm, not to mention Maxim's sister and Mrs. Danvers. And Lee Durkee told me that there was an aspect of Du Maurier's personality that she referred to as "the boy in the box," recently mentioned also by Carrie Frye in an interesting essay, ("click" here). Gee, as long as I'm typing I should mention that I also read in Green about the 16th-century cross-dressing taphouse girl "Long Meg," who hung out with famous poets, the king's jester, and "the Spanish Knight, Sir James of Castille." She "delighted to assume man's apparel and at last went to the wars with King Henry and returned wedded to a soldier, and set up a public house at Islington." I've also learned more about the bookseller Richard Head, who turns out to have been an important collector of criminal lingo. Green is as baffled as I am by John Aubrey's claim that Head "could transform himself into any shape," though it's a fitting thought here. Labels: bitter, butlers, dancing, drunk, heads, knights, pink, poetry THE EASTER PARADE was good. It didn't make me cry despite Megan Abbott's prediction but I finished most of it in one sitting that ended late last night and afterwards it gave me a long series of nightmares in which I was sorting shoeboxes full of yellowed papers in a dingy apartment under tragic circumstances. Labels: dreams, yellow The Locked Book of Private Information I was just sitting here thinking how boring and useless it would be if I "blogged" about what I read last night when another storm came up and we lost the satellite signal again, and then I thought, "I'll do it!" At first I was reading Jonathon Green's history of slang but it was too, uh, scholarly to read in a storm. Well, there was one good part where the French poet Villon was "implicated in a murder" and had to "henceforth scrape a living singing in taverns." But pretty soon we were back to statistics and the word "lexis" was in there a lot. So I switched over to THE EASTER PARADE by Richard Yates, which Megan Abbott gave me back when she lived in town and I knew it probably wouldn't be good for reading in a storm, I mean, I think Megan GUARANTEED it was going to make me cry, and the first words of the book are "Neither of the Grimes sisters would have a happy life" - ha! And the part I was on involved one of the sisters having her braces adjusted by the orthodontist. Hardly storm material! And it was then that I recalled my trusty GAZETTEER OF BRITISH GHOSTS, barely picked through. I read about Borley Rectory, surely the most famously haunted house in England. "In the 1900s Borley Rectory, as a haunted house, had everything," the author assures us. Ha ha! And here's a mysterious and poignant fragment: "Marianne who has lived a strange and unhappy life now resides in Canada..." That's almost a Lydia Davis story, that fragment. Then we come upon "a typed manuscript with pasted-in photographs, cuttings, booklets, posters, tracings and plans that became known as 'The Locked Book of Private Information' after Price acquired it, had it bound in morocco and fitted it with a Bramah lock." Yes, yes, this was more like it. What else do you need to know? There is a giant striped spider I can see out our front window - a spider so large you can see it from the sidewalk in front of our house - and a torrent of rain off the roof was really bashing its web. The web held up! The spider ran up a slender thread for the safety of the front porch, and I mean ran, that spider was really booking it, as I think we used to say when I was a kid, is that what we said? Booking it? I have a used copy of Green's massive three-volume DICTIONARY OF SLANG coming, so I'll let you know. Labels: France, giant, happiness, Lydia Davis, mysterious, poetry, poignance, scholarly, sidewalks Jerry Epiphany #2 Just before an ADVENTURE TIME meeting the other day I was conversing with my twitter friend Brian about a talk show Jerry Lewis had in the 80s, cashing in on his role from THE KING OF COMEDY. He told Suzanne Somers (pictured) she had "pizzazz," or so I remembered. I thought Kent Osborne's brother Mark had introduced that clip to me on a privately circulated VHS tape of oddities, but Kent didn't remember that. During the meeting he found Jerry's talk show on youtube and watched it and started cringing. Meanwhile, although (because?) from my end of the video conference I could only hear the audio and see the reactive cringing, I was cringing FOR Kent, or for Jerry, I couldn't tell which, they were inseparable. And I had an epiphany. All of my epiphanies are about Jerry Lewis. Yes, as I've observed, Jerry anticipated Andy Kaufman, and now that I think about it, Jerry's first act, when he was little more than a kid, was lip-syncing to records, mirroring exactly the first performance by Andy Kaufman on the first episode of Saturday Night Live. (Tony Clifton = Buddy Love?) As J. Hoberman observed, Jerry "both depicts and manifests inadvertent disclosure." So he can razor in on the phoniness of show biz satirically while living without qualms the actual life of a show biz phony. That old Fitzgerald thing about the rare ability to hold two opposed ideas in your mind at the same time, blah blah blah. Or as Megan Abbott said in an interview I did with her, "the unconscious and conscious are always this close... I’m putting my fingers together very closely... just this close always and always brushing up against each other constantly. And so we often are thrown into ourselves in ways that are alarming and we often have to see things about ourselves because we can’t completely hide from the unconscious." Jerry's 80s talk show was not art (was it?) but it crystalizes what Manohla Dargis said about Jerry disturbing "all those nice people in all their fancy clothes." Meaning us! So why, for me, Jerry is more powerful an artist than, say, the comedy team (how they'd probably chafe at that old-fashioned term) Tim and Eric, or any other contemporary practitioner of "anti-comedy" (I guess we call it) is that Jerry is doing what they do, but HONESTLY and not ironically. At heart it's helpless and noble. That was the epiphany. I watched a documentary about Divine, who on some basic level was as non-ironic as Jerry Lewis. For Jerry Lewis and Divine, show biz is a joyous religion in the service of a dark god, ha ha, how dramatic. Jerry Lewis is the father of Divine. There are minor similarities too: each, while young, created an overwhelming and brilliant persona that became a kind of consuming trap. Patterns of paternal fracture and rapprochement. I don't know. Maybe Jerry (who cross-dresses kind of touchingly - like late-period Divine - in THREE ON A COUCH) has a drag queen's instinct (lip-syncing!) for novelty, exaggeration, nostalgia, luxury, disguise and self-creation. And like Divine maybe he's suspicious of (guilty about?) revering some of those things and so turns them on their head. It occurs to me that Jerry has spent most of his life in a form of drag - like Pee Wee Herman! why can't I stop typing? - and maybe like Paul Reubens's some of Jerry's "bad" behavior can be attributed to the emotional violence required to break out of its strictures. Drag as freedom, drag as constraint. Can we call Suzanne Somers hunched over on roller skates a kind of enforced "drag"? Maybe I should think this out. But I don't think I shall. Somebody else on twitter was complaining that he can't watch Jerry because Jerry is "needy." All performers are needy. The glorious thing about Jerry and Divine is that they don't cover it up. They revel in it and they make us face it. Now we're all super smart and in on the big joke. Only when we watch them are our reactions are visceral and true. Labels: adventure, brilliant, doppelgangers, fingers, furniture, glory, heads, heart, mirrors, money, novelties, the queen Chuck Dean McNeil responded with the compelling insight that if Flavor Flav is Jerry Lewis, Chuck D is Dean Martin, the cool partner who gives his more flamboyant friend space for crazy antics but remains unaffected. Labels: Dean Martin, insights For McNeil Only This one is just for McNeil. The rest of you (there are two of you, I think) can skip it. But I happened to find out by accident that Jerry Lewis and Public Enemy were going to be on THE TONIGHT SHOW last night. I contacted McNeil right away. He loves Jerry Lewis and Public Enemy. But I found that McNeil was going to be unable to watch the show. So he asked me to file a report. Here is that report. Jerry entered, looking frail but game, as the Roots played him on with the Beastie Boys hit "Hey Ladies" - the significance of which to Jerry we have remarked upon before. When he arrived at his seat he noticed to his apparent consternation that his necktie was hanging out of his jacket. "WAAAAAH! I thought it was my tongue," said Jerry, which got a big laugh. Then he appeared to tuck his necktie into his pants... on purpose? I couldn't tell. Of course, the great thing about Jerry is that so often YOU JUST CAN'T TELL. Maybe tucking your necktie into your pants is an old show biz trick. Jimmy Fallon started reciting scenes from THE NUTTY PROFESSOR to Jerry Lewis, which was nicely intended, but odd. I will paraphrase from memory. Jimmy Fallon was like, "And you go to the gym and lift weights but then you drop the weights without letting go of them and they stretch out your arms like six feet long. But it's not over. Because then you're in bed that night and your feet are itching and a hand comes out and scratches your foot, and it's your hand because your arms were stretched out really long." It reminded me of that old SNL sketch with Chris Farley interviewing Paul McCartney. Jerry took it well. Well, no, at some point he cut off Jimmy Fallon's rambling by handing him what was apparently a shocking and obscene note. I don't know what happened there. It was mysterious. Then Jimmy Fallon started describing a scene from THE ERRAND BOY, the famous pantomime to music behind the executive's desk. They showed a clip of it and Jerry said, "When I write, I think in terms of music," which is something Barry Hannah used to say, more or less. Then Jimmy Fallon tried to get him to do a bit in which he and Jerry Lewis would "talk" to each other by lip-syncing to the instrumental music of the Roots. Jerry was confused at first. I suppose he was thinking about how dumb the idea was, how many weeks it had taken him to conceive, design, rehearse, shoot and edit that ERRAND BOY set piece, but he went ahead and tried. You could see the wheels turning and it was nice. The Roots played some music and Jimmy Fallon flapped his gums but Jerry introduced some hand gestures to good effect and really tried to engage with Jimmy Fallon... to push the bit into going somewhere. It didn't. Then Jerry told a dirty joke about a parrot. Public Enemy came out and did their song "Public Enemy #1." I half expected Flavor Flav to give a shout-out to Jerry Lewis in his introductory verse. He didn't, but I see some similarities there, especially in verbal mannerisms, but some of the physicality too. I'm not suggesting direct influence, of course, just expressionistic instincts in common. Think of Flavor Flav's "Cold Lamping": "We got Magnum Brown, Shooshki Palooshki/ Supercalafragahestikalagoothki/ You could put that in your don't know what you said book/ Took-look-yuk-duk-wuk." More Jerryish lyrics would be tough to find. Especially "Shooshki Palooshki." Or "You're eating dirt because you like eating dirt from the graveyard/ You put gravy on it." Can't you just hear Jerry yelling "You put GRAVY on it!"? And when Flavor raps about "chocolate, strawberry, sarsaparilla" who can help but recall Jerry's rhapsody on strawberry milkshakes from THE COLGATE COMEDY HOUR? What? Everybody? Okay. Labels: Barry Hannah, brown, declarations of love, dirt, gravy, mysterious, necks, pantomime, paraphrasing, strawberry Roughage For the Hawk I am so embarrassed I didn't know about owls spitting out mouse bones and such in pellet form. It's pretty basic owl stuff, I guess! I just glanced at a wikipedia article about it so now I'm an expert. "It is therefore advisable to sterilize pellets in a microwave oven before study," is one sentence from the wikipedia article. There is also something about feeding roughage to a hawk. Labels: skeletons Free Owl Speaking of Laura Lippman, she just tweeted about a book review and I "clicked" on it, and the reviewer quotes the book (HOW TO BUILD A GIRL by Caitlin Moran): "I reckon Nick Cave emits a pellet from his mouth, like an owl." First of all: OWLS EMIT PELLETS FROM THEIR MOUTHS? Just one more thing I didn't know about owls. ("Click" here to read something I didn't know about wolverines.) Secondly, now I don't even have to buy the book to know there is an owl in it. Nothing against buying the book! It looks good! Labels: money Armadillos of the Mind I was up at Ace Atkins's office the other eve and we were sitting in some rocking chairs on his balcony overlooking the town square when he told me he had watched only the first 10 minutes of THREE ON A COUCH (pictured) before turning it off, which naturally distressed me, but I stayed and drank some whiskey anyway. And Ace did say that I should ask THREE ON A COUCH costar Mary Ann Mobley about Jerry Lewis next time she was in town. And I said, "She comes here?"... "She's FROM here!" Ace replied. Later I got up and acted out one of Adam Muto's "Tall Penguin" comics, perfect for acting out on a balcony. ("Click" here to see why. And "click" here to see another one that I once tweeted at Neko Case and she favorited it or retweeted it or something, who can remember, those were heady times.) Ace and I talked about the Robert B. Parker novel SMALL VICES which Laura Lippman recommended the last time I saw her, and Ace had a copy in his office and he loaned it to me so I've been reading it and in the very first paragraph our narrator Spenser compares a woman to an armadillo and on page 109 another woman looks "like she swallowed an armadillo" and I don't know what to say about that, I guess Robert B. Parker had armadillos on his mind when he was writing that book. Labels: balcony, faves, furniture, heads, natch Quote-Unquote Ghost I suppose it is no surprise that the GAZETTEER OF BRITISH GHOSTS has an owl in it. I was browsing through it and came across a story from Bournemouth of "Twenty-eight-year-old secretary Margaret Best" who was "repeatedly tucked into bed by a 'ghost' for over nine months in 1964." Ha ha, what do you suppose is up with those quotation marks? Anyhow, one special feature of the GAZETTEER is that the author Mr. Underwood suggests a nice hotel near each ghostly site, in case you want to visit. Here he recommends the Fircroft Hotel on Owls Road. Life Member of the Vampire Research Society Poking around the old "internet," I discover that Peter Underwood, author of A GAZETTEER OF BRITISH GHOSTS, is still alive and very busy with his various ghost clubs. He's a "Life Member" of the "Vampire Research Society" too! And he cuts quite a dashing figure, I must say, as you can see here. Plus his "web" site has a blurb from Arthur Conan Doyle's daughter. She calls Mr. Underwood "The Sherlock Holmes of Psychical Research," ha ha! Pretty good. Labels: blurbs Dropped by Square Books last night with a snoot full only to discover a hole in my recommendation shelf, which I filled with Céline. I don't think I would have added him under other circumstances. Not a nice man! But that style of his beat me into hysterical submission after only 300 pages or so. Anyway, the recommendation shelf is an ever changing kaleidoscope of literary wonders, ha ha, I'm supposed to be a writer. THE FEVER by Megan Abbott used to be next to that John Wayne bio, so that the Duke was looking askance at the unfortunate girl having some sort of feverish episode on the cover of THE FEVER. Various Megan Abbott books have been spotted on the recommendation shelf from its earliest days. That Lynda Barry book and WUTHERING HEIGHTS are the closest things to permanent fixtures, I guess. You'll note the recent arrival of Seo Kim's masterpiece CAT PERSON. Hey! Remember some years ago when I hosted the first ever "graphic novel" panel at the Oxford Conference for the Book? Come March, I'll be doing another panel with people who write with pictures as well as words. Seo Kim, Kent Osborne, and Natasha Allegri will be coming to town to discuss their work with me. I'll remind you! Labels: cats, drunk, kaleidoscopic, Lydia Davis, Lynda Barry, Square Books, Wuthering Heights Here's my friend L. and me. I guess we're 19 here. I just now heard that she passed away this morning. She was a finalist in a national beauty contest and as a dubious prize got a scholarship to a college in Mobile, Alabama, where I met her in music theory class. We were music majors at first. She immediately shaved her long beauty pageant hair into a crew cut (it has grown way out here) and put a pink streak in it and became the first punk in Mobile, I think, though punk was just about over then in the rest of the country. A few years later when she was going back north we cried and recited John Donne at each other, we were optimists and little idealists, we said, "Our two soules therefore, which are one,/ Though I must goe, endure not yet/ A breach, but an expansion,/ Like gold to ayery thinnesse beate." He Wasn't Kidding Hey look that guy wasn't kidding when he referred to "My friend Granville Squiers, who made a study of secret hiding places." Labels: no kidding, secrets The Wistful Rector Big lightning storm came up and the satellite went out (during THREE ON A COUCH!) so I leafed through one of the ghost books I bought at the Strand. Good weather for it. "The ghost of Archbishop Laud is said to roll his head across the floor" is one enjoyable thing I read. (See also.) This book is called GAZETTEER OF BRITISH GHOSTS by Peter Underwood. At one point Mr. Underwood refers to "My friend Granville Squiers, who made a study of secret hiding places." I like everything about that. Mr. Underwood personally investigated many of the haunted spots in his book. I liked his description of one of his informants: "I found Mr Merryweather to be a large, astute and kindly man, then in his sixties, level-headed and sensible, with an infectious sense of humor and a gift for looking on the bright side of things." I'll say! Mr. Merryweather was the rector at a haunted church where (at the adjacent Manor House) he "turned from the window and... 'moved into the unmistakable embrace of a naked young woman.' This singular tactual phenomenon lasted only a few seconds: 'one wild, frantic embrace and she was gone' as Mr. Merryweather put it." I also liked this report from the Tower of London: "A few days later one of the sentries at the Jewel House maintained that he saw a figure which reminded him of a large bear 'issuing' from under the door of the Jewel Room!" Those quotation marks and that exclamation point really hit the spot. And a ghost shaped like a bear! Coming from under a door! "Issuing" from under it! The door to the Jewel Room! What more could you ask for? But I read the rest of the paragraph and the story had a tragic conclusion, with the poor rattled sentry coming to no good end. (Pictured, Mr. Merryweather's haunted church, which was demolished in 1962.) Labels: exclamation points, furniture, heads, hugs, lightning, secrets, wistfulness Wasp Vs. Hummingbird Raced through the end of the novel REBECCA because Lee Durkee and I were set to watch the movie version last night, which we did. Lee made delicious tacos and I'd like to tell you the secret ingredient but IT'S SECRET. I tell you what. I will hide that information somewhere else on the "blog" like a treasure or "Easter egg" I know you will never find because you are so lazy. Lee promised that if I came over early enough there would be lots of "hummingbird action" and he was not lying. Lee has two hummingbird feeders. One of them has been taken over by what Lee called a "big red leg-dangling wasp." Once again he was not lying. The wasp was so large and brightly colored that when I first saw it I thought it was a hummingbird. The hummingbirds were wary of the wasp and most of them migrated to the wasp-free feeder. I was going to type up some stuff about REBECCA but this wasp story is hot stuff, how can I top it? Labels: action, secrets, tacos Mom Likes Cemeteries Just got off the phone with Mom. She went to Shubuta, Mississippi, the other day, she said. ("Shubuta" is also the title of a short story by Tom Franklin.) Mom said the highway passed Shubuta by, that they used to have a traffic light but now they don't even have a traffic light. "Yes, sounds exciting," I said. Mom liked the cemetery in Shubuta. Mom has always liked cemeteries. When we were on road trips when I was a kid, you could count on a lengthy stop at any interesting-looking cemetery, and all of them looked interesting to Mom. Mom said the cemetery in Shubuta is on a bluff overlooking a river, and though she was afraid there could be water moccasins (a deadly breed of snake) hiding between the gravestones, she could easily picture a horse-cart carrying a coffin onto the grounds, and the stately procession following it. I told Mom she should get a column somewhere reviewing cemeteries the way other people review restaurants or movies. I really mean it! Somebody pay my mom to go around the country reviewing cemeteries. But Mom objected. "Well, I don't ever stay long enough to get to know anybody," she said, which I thought was a funny thing to say about cemeteries. Labels: horses, light, money, stateliness, telephoning Sexy Woman Who Can Lift a Car ... "sexy woman who can lift a car" being the title of an email I just received from Ace Atkins. He corrects an error in my previous "post": the John D. MacDonald book featuring a sexy woman who can lift a car was not part of his Travis McGee series, but a standalone novel, which Ace writes about in this neat, brief essay ("click" here) that also contains an appreciation of MacDonald's work in general. McNeil and McGee Email from McNeil! "Reading DARKER THAN AMBER (1966)," he writes. "I'm 3 pages into it and Travis [McGee] is just as sexist as he was in the last novel (DRESS HER IN INDIGO). So that's comforting," McNeil adds sardonically, though he does note for the record that "someone is referred to as owl-like" in the latter. He also says INDIGO has a noticeable "gay streak... everyone is gay. It's like drug use = gayness." I'm not sure what he means by that last equation. I think he's saying that the book posits a direct correlation. I'll ask! (I did ask, and McNeil replied that the characters in the book "on the wrong side of the law - and even those who walk near the border of illegality - engage in a homosexual act at some point, whether they actually take drugs or not. I think even these characters - the non drug takers - administer drugs or sell them, though. I may be wrong about it, but that's the way I remember it.") Another email from McNeil, contemplating a blurb about John D. MacDonald, author of the Travis McGee series: "'He's the Dickens of mid-century America' - Boston Globe. I wonder which Dickens book they had in mind? Reading DARKER THAN AMBER now (at work). On page 20." McNeil then summarizes DARKER THAN AMBER up to page 20 as "The regular McGee on steroids." He notes that McGee's hairy sidekick goes around introducing McGee as "the handsome one." "It must be nice," McNeil muses wistfully. I'm going to try to get Ace Atkins to comment on all this. McNeil and I were talking about the (SPOILER ALERT) baroque death scene of McGee's romantic interest in A DEADLY SHADE OF GOLD and it reminded me of the time Ace actually managed to spoil the entire Travis McGee series for me! Which I am about to do for you in turn. We were at Megan Abbott's apartment when she was living here in town. I think it was the night we watched SMOKEY AND THE BANDIT. Ace told me THE TURQUOISE LAMENT was unusual because "the woman doesn't die." And then he told me the terrible secret of every Travis McGee novel: "The woman always dies," said Ace. (And now I am remembering a conversation that Ace and I had a while back, in which he noted MacDonald's penchant for getting McGee together with physically powerful women, which I had already noticed in a secondary relationship in A DEADLY SHADE OF GOLD. Ace mentioned a book - I can't remember which one - in which McGee becomes involved with a woman who can lift a car.) Labels: blurbs, gold, hair, secrets, wistfulness Are You Me All I really ask from life is that late at night some shopworn movie I didn't know existed with a weird cast will come on. So last night it was something called THE LAST MARRIED COUPLE IN AMERICA, starring George Segal, Natalie Wood, Richard Benjamin, Dom DeLuise, and TV's RHODA, Valerie Harper. That's so interesting if you are me! It's all about this set of couples who get together to play touch football every weekend! HUH! One of the guys is a patient from the Bob Newhart Show and one is the psychiatrist who helped Alan Alda realize that the chicken was actually a baby on MAS*H. Then Rhoda comes along with some startling sex talk! And some young dudes try to pick up Rhoda and Natalie Wood in a restaurant. I could have sworn one of them was Mark Hamill until his disturbing AUTO FOCUS grin made me decide it was a very young Greg Kinnear with a Mark Hamill shag and a premature Bob Crane leer. I even rewound it and convinced myself. But after extensive "internet" research (why, God?) I'm pretty sure it was this guy (pictured), Brad Maule. Hey, there was somebody in the cast named Edgy Lee. I thought that was a funny name! Well, I only made it 16 minutes in before I conked out. I think I was mad because there was no Paula Prentiss. She would have livened things up. I didn't even make it to Dom Deluise! Just saw his name in the credits. But I recorded the rest of it, so it's your lucky day. Valerie Harper's and Natalie Wood's costumes were designed by Edith Head. How long was her career? Is her name on every movie the way it seems? I think of her just locked in a room for a hundred years with a spinning wheel, like Rapunzel. At one point Natalie Wood was jogging and I was like, what, Edith Head made that jogging suit? I bet Edith Head was like, "I don't even know what world I'm living in anymore." 1980 was like a futuristic dystopia to Edith Head! Labels: ball, grinning, hair, heads, medicine, some dude, the future Already Some Pigeons Last night I saw Lee Durkee and he said, "Nobody can get to nirvana without looking a little silly." I think that's what he said. I wanted to write it down but I didn't have a pen. Then I meant to tell Mary Miller, who was all dressed up, that she looked like somebody Gene Kelly would be dancing with in a movie but it came out, "You look like Gene Kelly." So that was unfortunate! And somehow I walked away without correcting myself. But anyway, Lee was really talking up REBECCA by Daphne Du Maurier. So I stopped by Square Books and picked up a copy. I was a little dismayed that they stuck it in the "Beach" section for books you're supposed to read at the beach. Hey, they just opened up a Gus's fried chicken place up the street! So on my way back from Square Books I walked in and ordered some chicken to take home. It was crazy in there! Packed! Total chaos. So the chicken (which was delicious) took a while. And so I read the first three chapters of REBECCA while I sat waiting at the counter, which I think means I am reading three books at once. That's not my style, baby! REBECCA looks like a sure thing as far as owls are concerned, all that roaming around a ruined country estate in a misty dream and all, and the narrator has already been nostalgic for some pigeons. Labels: dancing, dreams, Square Books, the beach A Stone Urn With Flowers In It People like to pretend they hate exclamation points and semi-colons. MRS. DALLOWAY is full of both! "Then came the most exquisite moment of her whole life passing a stone urn with flowers in it. Sally stopped; picked a flower; kissed her on the lips. The whole world might have turned upside down!" Those are great semi-colons and a beautiful exclamation point and a wonderful absent comma in the first sentence and perfect use of a "cliché" in the last one and certainly some graduate workshop would have scolded her for using the word "whole" twice in such quick succession. (See also.) Labels: class, exclamation points	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4091
__label__cc	0.524257	0.475743	Reviews, March 2017 Walked in Fields of Gold Dragon Whisperer — Vanessa Ricci-Thode To quote the biography at the end of the novel: Vanessa has always been a bookaholic, even as a young child—making picture books before she learned to read and write. She has been writing for most of her life, completing her first novel when she was eighteen, handwriting it on a thick notepad on the floor of her bedroom. This is Vanessa’s first foray into the world of publishing, and she’s so excited that she hasn’t slept since her book was accepted. 2013’s Dragon Whisperer is a secondary world fantasy by Vanessa Ricci-Thode. The Ovailens and Joaseras have planned an arranged marriage between their two scions, Reiser Ovailen and Vyranna Joasara. This scheme may have seemed reasonable when the two children were young, but ran aground when it became clear that Vyranna was a spiteful bully. Reiser opts out and marries another Joasara, Vyranna’s younger sister Dionelle. Vyranna is outraged. She may despise Reiser, but he was hers. She never liked her sister anyway! She flounces out of their village and out of the plot … temporarily. Dionelle and Reiser know that she will take revenge when she can. For now, Dionelle and her new husband have some more immediate challenges. It’s a Shame We’re All Dying Dawn — Yoshiki Tanaka 1982’s Dawn is the first volume in Yoshiki Tanaka’s ten-volume Legend of the Galactic Heroes, a series of space-opera novels . It was translated into English by Daniel Huddleston. The Milky Way is divided between two great powers. On one side, the autocratic Galactic Empire, with twenty-five billion subjects. On the other, the democratic Free Planets Alliance, with thirteen billion citizens. The Empire refuses to admit the right of people to live outside the Empire and has sought to conquer the Free Planets ever since they discovered the existence of the Alliance. The Free Planets, founded by escaped serfs, are determined to remain free. The balance of power is such that neither side has been able to win a decisive victory. The war has lasted over a century. Two military geniuses enter the arena. Cast Me Down Where the Devil Don’t Go The House of Binding Thorns — Aliette de Bodard Dominion of the Fallen, book 2 The House of Binding Thorns is the second volume in Aliette de Bodard’s Dominion of the Fallen series. The dragon realm hidden under the Seine has until now held itself aloof. Their kingdom has been known only to a very few in ruined Paris. Now something has changed. An ongoing crisis in their realm gives Asmodeus, head of House Hawthorn, a chance to open diplomatic exchange with the hermit domain. More than exchange: dynastic merger. Of course, the dragon kingdom has its own agenda, not to mention long experience of cunning plans aimed its way. The diplomatic mission may well be one from which none will return. It is a risk Asmodeus is willing to accept. That’s why he is sending trusted or expendable (such as returned exile and angel-essence-addict Madeleine) subordinates to conduct the negotiations. A Faithful Soldier, Without Fear Gunner Cade — Cyril Kornbluth & Judith Merril Gunner Cade is an SF adventure novel 1by Cyril Kornbluth and Judith Merril, originally published under the pen-name Cyril Judd. Wow, am I slow on the uptake … it’s just now I see how they came up with the pen-name. It is fitting that the Emperor rules. It is fitting that the Armsmen serve the Emperor through the Power Master and our particular Stars. While this is so all will be well, to the end of time. Gunner Cade believes this with every atom of his well-conditioned body. If not for the emperor and the unbending rules Cade and his fellow warriors serve, the world might fall back into the clutches of the Beetu-Nine, the Beefai-voh, and Beethrie-Six. Thanks to the selfless sacrifice of the Emperor, the world has been secure for ten thousand years. Cade is loyal to a fault and nobody can fault his determination to adhere to the rules. His imagination is sadly deficient, which is why it never occurs to him he should distrust the elderly commoner. So he quaffs the drugged drink she offers him. The Game Commences Brother’s Ruin — Emma Newman Industrial Magic, book 1 Emma Newman’s Brother’s Ruin is an amiable introduction to her Industrial Magic gas-lamp fantasyseries. Great Britain’s power and prosperity rests on the talents of the Society for Esoteric Arts. Accordingly, the Society has been granted the legal powers it needs to ensure its continued existence. This includes the right to impress any person with magical talents into the Society, even if the candidate, or the candidate’s family, object to the conscription. Losing a family member to the Society is not necessarily bad. The Society compensates the candidate’s family. This compensation would be a godsend to the Gunn family, which is struggling with mounting debts. Benjamin Gunn, aspiring mage, might be able to save his family. There is one problem: the Society pays in proportion to the prospective mage’s talents. Although he has some magical ability, Benjamin is a comparative lightweight. It’s his sister Charlotte who has the stupendous talent … and she is determined not to be conscripted. It would be much more convenient if Benjamin were the one to be press-ganged. Now, if there were only a way that Benjamin’s talents could be augmented to increase his compensation … Charlotte has a cunning plan. In the Land of Gods and Monsters The Forgotten Gemstone — Kit Daven Xiinisi, book 1 To quote Kit Daven’s online biography: Kit Daven was born in Toronto, Ontario, the only child in a military family. Writing since the age of seven, she has a continued fascination with stories, writing, and making books. After spending many years producing literary zines in her youth, Kit was published in Ryerson University’s White Wall Review under a different pen-name in the mid 1990’s. In 2009, she decided to begin writing a serial to publish online. […] Kit currently lives in Cambridge, Ontario, with her husband, surrealist artist Sean Chappell, and two Siamese cats. The Forgotten Gemstone is the first volume in Kit Daven’s Xiinisi trilogy. The Xiinisi are gods (or as good as gods), creating and shaping whole universes as whim dictates. Within the limits of certain guidelines, of course. Gods are as vulnerable to personal setback as puny mortals, but at least gods rule tangible worlds of the imagination, pocket paradises, where they can retreat when life becomes too much. As Ule discovers when she returned to a world she last visited when she was an adolescent, what the Xiinisi expect to be true and what is true can be very different things. My Daddy Told Me to Open Up My Eyes and Not Be Blind The Library at Mount Char — Scott Hawkins Scott Hawkins’ 2015 The Library at Mount Char is a standalone contemporary fantasy. Retrieved from certain doom by neighbor Adam Black (or as he prefers to be called, “Father”), Caroline and her young companions—David, Margaret, Michael and Richard, Jacob, Felicia, Jennifer, Lisa, Peter, Alicia, and Rachel—are taken on as apprentices. Father’s methods are brutal but effective. Each child is forced to master one of Father’s twelve catalogues of skills. As wielders of the uncanny, they are outmatched only by the omnicompetent Father himself. Now Father has vanished. And someone has cast a magical barrier around the dimensional intrusion that is the library; none of the twelve can cross the barrier. They are marooned outside the library. Someone who was not one of the targeted twelve might be able to simply ignore the barrier. Dreaming My Life Away Final Girls — Mira Grant Mira Grant’s 2017 Final Girls is an upcoming standalone work. Jennifer Webb has invented a new virtual-reality-based therapy and opened an institute to test and develop it. Seeking publicity and credibility, she offers Esther Hoffman, an investigative journalist, a chance to visit the institute and report on the new tech. This would seem to have been a bad choice. Hoffman is a professional debunker with a strong personal grudge against pseudoscience therapies. But it is that very grudge that makes Hoffman a credible reporter. If Webb can convince Hoffman that the therapy has merit, Webb can convince everyone else. The question that kickstarts many good plots: what could possibly go wrong? Farthest Star — Frederik Pohl & Jack Williamson Cuckoo, book 1 Frederik Pohl and Jack Williamson’s 1975 Farthest Star is the first novel in the Cuckoo duology, which was a fixup of the 1973 novella Doomship (1973) and the 1974 serial The Org’s Egg, Farthest Star is an example of the Big Dumb Object school of science fiction. This makes it cousin to such classics as Ringworld, Rendezvous with Rama , and Orbitsville, as well as to books like The Wanderer . By the late 21 st century, humans have made contact with a loose association of alien civilizations. These civilizations are linked, not by physical spacecraft, but by near-instantaneous tachyon communication. Tachyon beams carry information; they cannot transmit matter, but material objects can be scanned., That information can then be transmitted by the tachyon transporter, to be duplicated at a distant location 1. This tech has allowed humans to join the association and travel, as copies, to other worlds. What if the traveller dies? Run off another copy. Or another dozen copies. Just ask the ill-fated Ben Pertin. I Heard the Empty Call Shadowlands — Violette Malan Mirror Prince, book 2 To quote Malan’s on-line biography: Violette Malan has a PhD from York University in 18th-Century English Literature, but reports that most people don’t hold it against her. She started reading fantasy and science fiction at the age of eight, and was writing stories not long after. Violette has been a book reviewer, and has written feature articles on genre writing and literature for the Kingston Whig Standard. She has taught creative writing, English as a second language, Spanish, beginner’s French, and choreography for strippers. On occasion she’s worked as an administrative assistant, and a carpenter’s helper. Her most unusual job was translating letters between lovers, one of whom spoke only English, the other only Spanish. Violette is co-founder of the Scene of the Crime Festival on Wolfe Island, a single-day event focusing on Canadian crime writing, and celebrating the birthplace of Grant Allen, Canada’s first crime writer. Violette is currently the president of the festival board, but in the past she’s given writing workshops, and was the original organizer and co-judge of The Wolfe Island Prize for first crime fiction, which is sponsored by the festival. Violette Malan’s 2012 Shadowlands is the second in her Mirror Prince series. Wars’ consequences don’t vanish when the war ends. The leaders of one side may be vanquished or dead but their followers may not be. As well, the consequences of actions taken for what seemed like good reasons at the time can reverberate for a very long time. Particularly when quasi-immortal faerie are involved. Kings of Petaling Street — William Tham Wai Liang William Tham Wai Liang’s Kings of Petaling Street is a standalone crime thriller. Wong Kah Lok Syndicate’s power is waning, but it is still one of the most powerful gangs in Kuala Lumpur. Gangster Wong has slowed of late. The heart went out of the aging criminal when his wife and oldest son died in an assassination attempt. Wong’s primary goal is now to see his remaining son, Gavin, settled in a respectable, safe occupation. He shows poor judgment, then, in allowing the heir apparent to his gang, Crazy Foo, to mentor the impressionable Gavin. Don’t Mourn—Organize! Hunger Makes the Wolf — Alex Wells Hunger Makes the Wolf is the first volume in Alex Wells’ as yet unnamed series. Tanegawa’s World is one vast desert; it has very little to offer the other worlds of the Federal Union Moreover, the harsh natural conditions tend to wreck delicate advanced technology far in advance of its expected MTBF. How fortunate for the world’s inhabitants that TransRift, Inc, has taken the planet and its human inhabitants under its wing, providing the able-bodied with full time employment in the mines Without the distractions of decent pay, unions and law beyond that supplied by TransRift’s private army. All of which will go part way to explain why Hob, Coyote, and Dambala find a dead man desiccating in the desert. A Good Day to Run To steal a description I posted on actor Amal Al’s Facebook wall a few days ago, Fritz Leiber’s 1964 The Wanderer is about “hollow planets filled with catgirls who want to steal the moon.” Many of you may think that sounds awesome or at least intriguing. Certainly a sufficient number of fans [1] thought so; the novel won a Best Novel Hugo in 1965. The reality of the novel falls well short of its potential. Yesterday’s Tomorrow AD: the Americans have a moon base, and the Soviets have a manned Mars expedition. The Cold War simmers, threatening to go Hot. That would be the only threat to the planet as a whole … or so they thought. Four photographs of distorted star-fields foreshadow a grim reality. There are aliens and they are on their way to Earth. What do they have planned for us? I’m Not Just One of Your Many Toys All Systems Red — Martha Wells The Murderbot Diaries, book 1 2017’s All Systems Red is the first instalment in Martha Well’s The Murderbot Diaries. The Company cares (<3 <3 <3), which is why every one of their survey teams is required to have at least one Sec Unit. This is a construct: part machine, part organic, a guardian bound by programs stored in supposedly unhackable governor units. Its duty: to protect its squishy human charges. Of course, the Company is also profit-oriented, which means that the Sec Unit has been assembled from the cheapest components available, which in turn means that those governor units are, in fact, easily hacked. Dr. Mensah’s team is small and it has just the one Sec Unit. That seems sufficient for a world without any significant known hazards. But appearances can be misleading. There is an undocumented giant predator in the team’s assigned territory. And the team’s Sec Unit is a Murderbot. Its governor has been hacked and disabled. Murderbot refrains from murdering its humans mainly because it can see no good reason to kill them. Not as long as it has new entertainment material to amuse it. There is another, far greater, threat to the team than a soap-opera-obsessed Murderbot in the offing. Hide From the Unholy Sound Ultraviolet — R. J. Anderson Ultraviolet, book 1 To quote R. J. Anderson’s biography: Born in Kampala, Uganda, and raised in various parts of Ontario, Rebecca has spent much of her life dreaming of other worlds entirely. As a child she immersed herself in fairy tales, mythology, and the works of C.S. Lewis , J.R.R. Tolkien and E. Nesbit ; later she found inspiration in books by Ursula LeGuin , Patricia A. McKillip and Robin McKinley , and learned to take as much pleasure from the authors’ lyrical style as the stories they told. Now married and a mother of three, Rebecca reads to her sons the classic works of fantasy and science fiction that enlivened her own childhood, and tries to bring a similar excitement and timeless wonder to the novels she writes for children and teens. She lives in the beautiful theatre town of Stratford,Ontario1. 2011’s Ultraviolet is the first book in R. J. Anderson’s Ultraviolet series. Sixteen-year-old Alison Jeffries wakes up with no idea where she is or how she got there. She soon learns she is immured in the Pine Hills Psychiatric Treatment Centre. Her mother has finally succeeded in having Alison committed. Perhaps it is for the best. Alison does recall disintegrating Victoria Beaugrand. While that may be the delusion of a madwoman, the fact that nobody has seen Tori since the day Alison turned up raving and covered in blood suggests it is not. All the Merry Men Drowned in the Sea Revenger — Alastair Reynolds Alastair Reynold’s 2016 Revenger is a standalone SF novel. Eager to escape her foolish father and his incredibly creepy associate Doctor Morcenx, teenaged Adrana Ness talks her way onto Captain Rackamore’s light-sail spacecraft. Rather than abandon her younger sister Fura to Morcenx, Adrana convinces her sister to accompany her into deepest space in search of freedom and fortune. What they get is death and corruption but hey, A for effort. 8 Mar 2017 / 0 Comments Space Opera That Doesn't Suck And There’s Footsteps Loud and Strong Coming Down the Hall Six Wakes — Mur Lafferty Mur Lafferty’s 2017 Six Wakes is a standalone science fiction mystery novel. To have one crew-member murdered may be regarded as a misfortune; to have the entire crew murdered looks like carelessness. Happily for Maria Arena and the rest of the crew of the interstellar ship Dormire, death is a temporary condition. Maria wakes in a cloning pod, as expected. What is not expected: she is still in the pod. Someone should have released her. Oh, and she can see globules of blood floating in freefall outside her container. It only gets worse. Garden of the Mind The Phantom Tollbooth — Norton Juster Norton Juster’s 1961 The Phantom Tollbooth is a widely loved whimsical children’s book that, as it happens, I’ve not read until now. There was once a boy named Milo who didn’t know what to do with himself—not just sometimes, but always. When he was in school he longed to be out, and when he was out he longed to be in. On the way he thought about coming home, and coming home he thought about going. Wherever he was he wished he were somewhere else, and when he got there he wondered why he’d bothered. Nothing really interested him—least of all the things that should have. When Milo comes home to find a mysterious package awaiting him, he sees no point to assembling the contents … but he does so anyway. Not assembling them would have been just as pointless and at least putting the strange present together was something to do. His gift is a tollbooth. A very special tollbooth. So Thick Beset Wi Thorns and Briers Shon’jir — C. J. Cherryh Faded Sun, book 2 1978’s Shon’jir is the middle volume in SF Grandmaster C. J. Cherryh’s Faded Sun trilogy. The Regul attempted to exterminate the mri, in order to prevent the alien mercenaries from selling their services to the human Alliance. Perhaps a prudent action, but ultimately unsuccessful. Two mri survive, prisoners of the Alliance forces occupying Kesrith. Only two, but Niun and Melein alone are sufficient to threaten the delicate peace between Regul and the humans. Into the Sea of Waking Dreams The Last Rite — Jen Frankel Blood & Magic, book 1 2012’s1 The Last Rite is the first volume in Jen Frankel’s Blood & Magic series. Thirteen-year-old Maggie Stuart is an unwilling loner, unable to make friends at her Toronto school and unsure why that is so. Even the boy on whom she has a painful crush is barely aware of her. If he notices her at all, it’s to ask for academic help. No worries, though, because the Burnt Man has taken a keen interest in young Maggie. He wants to be with her for ever and ever. Or until Maggie dies. Whichever comes first. I Only Wanna Play a Little The Crimson Labyrinth — Yusuke Kishi 2006’s The Crimson Labyrinth is a stand-alone thriller by Yusuke Kishi. The English-language edition was translated by Camellia Nieh. Yoshihiko Fujiki had it all: a high-status job, a wife who adored his salary and company housing. Japan’s economic woes stripped all that from Fujiki: first the job, then the wife and finally his home. Only after he loses everything does Fujiki grasp the transience of success. Living hand-to-mouth in a squalid apartment, it might not seem that Fujiki has much to lose. He knows better. As far as he has fallen, he can still far farther. Fujiki has seen his future and it’s bleak. Waking up stripped of his recent memories in an alien labyrinth still comes as a rude surprise.	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4094
__label__wiki	0.658121	0.658121	Will Smith’s Instagram Page Is The Best Place On The Internet Source: Mark Metcalfe / Getty Will Smith is cradling a baby wombat as it rests in his arm. “This is our new baby,” he jokes. The clip begins with him feeding a crocodile with a long pole. “That wasn’t nothing,” he says. In another post, he’s solving the Rubik’s cube. If you scroll down some more, he and Denzel Washington share a #TBT photo. Reload the page and you’ll find him sharing advice given to him by Arnold Schwarzenegger. “He said if your movie is only big in America, it doesn’t matter. You’ll be a movie star when you’re a movie star in every country in the world.” But even more inspiring, is his love for his family, the love that permeates through his grin when he talks about his wife and the Christmas sweaters she makes them wear each year. Smith joined Instagram in December of 2018 and we’ve found joy in his page ever since. In the short time he’s been on the gram, he’s reminded us why we first fell in love with the Fresh Prince from Philly and what every celebrity’s page should embody—humor, humble opulence and inspiration. Other celebs who illicit such national treasure feelings: Diddy, Snoop Dogg, Oprah. So let’s discuss the best moments on his gram thus far. Keep scrolling. Christmas With The Smith Family It’s crazy out here in these Christmas streets A post shared by Will Smith (@willsmith) on Dec 24, 2017 at 9:33pm PST Jada Pinkett-Smith apparently makes the entire Smith family wear matching Christmas sweaters every year and this year was no different as we witnessed it first-hand from Will’s account. The family, with Willow (who Will says was “infected with that Christmas stuff”), Jaden Smith and an arsenal of tiny tots in tow, took on the snow in a festive sled led by reindeer. Jada’s New Hair Cut I love her new cut, I had to show y’all A post shared by Will Smith (@willsmith) on Jan 10, 2018 at 3:16pm PST Will is equally supportive as he is funny. Jada Pinkett hit us with a #NewHairWhoDis post on New Years, but Will gave us the exclusive on her do when he snuck a candid video of Jada and her asymmetrical tresses. Relationship Wisdom 20 Years Ago Today we held hands and walked naively down that aisle. Here’s what I’ve learned since. . Love is Like Gardening… I have learned to focus on HELPING you to BLOSSOM into what YOU want to be (into what you were born to be)… Rather than Demanding that you become what my Fragile Ego needs you to be. . I’ve learned to take pleasure in Nourishing YOUR dreams… Rather than wrestling with you to Fulfill my Selfish Needs & Satiate My Insecurities. . I have learned that Love is Listening. Love is Giving. Love is Freedom. . Happy Anniversary, My Queen! I am forever Devoted to Nurturing your Deepest Truth. A post shared by Will Smith (@willsmith) on Dec 31, 2017 at 12:24pm PST Will and Jada are the pinnacle of Black love, so it makes sense he’d know a wise word or two about marriage. He dropped some relationship knowledge on us when he took us through 20 years of wisdom in one Instagram post. The even shorter version: “Love is like gardening.” When He Reported Live From A Boat In Australia Chris Cuomo Smith reporting to you live from a boat in Australia A post shared by Will Smith (@willsmith) on Jan 14, 2018 at 11:09am PST Who else on Instagram has cutaway shots from a drone (you can see him looking up at the camera) while boating? And not regular boating, rough boating. We’d explain it but it’s better to watch. His Incredible Seats At The Australian Open This match last night was CRAZY!! @k1ngkyrg1os VS @tsongaofficiel… WOW! I haven’t been to many Tennis matches. But, Now… I’m pretty sure I’m hooked! #ausopen Wealth and influence buys you these kinds of seats. When He Walked About Comic Con In A Bright Mask This is Me at Comic Con in São Paulo. It was KRAZY when I took the mask off. Full vid in my bio. The Orc Life is Sweet. Will Smith’s Netflix film Bright was a massive success, despite poor ratings. 11 million viewers streamed Bright within the first three days of its release making it one of Netflix’s most streamed movies. Much of the film’s success can be attributed to Will’s personal influence and moments like this. Gotta love his dedication. Check It Off Your Bucket List Another one checked off of my Bucket List… Scuba Diving at the Great Barrier Reef! That fish was a whole lot scarier in-person. A post shared by Will Smith (@willsmith) on Jan 21, 2018 at 9:27am PST More importantly, Will reminds us to dream big. Follow him @WillSmith on Instagram. Will Smith Introduced Jada Pinkett To The ‘Grapefruit’ Technique Watch James Corden Get Jiggy With Will Smith On ‘Carpool Karaoke’ 49 & Fine: Will Smith's Best Suited Red Carpet Moments 2. USA - Concussion premiere in Los Angeles. 3. USA - Focus premiere in Los Angeles 4. France - 'I Am Legend' Premieres in Paris 5. 'Suicide Squad' World Premiere - Inside Arrivals 6. BRITAIN-ENTERTAINMENT-CINEMA-SUICIDE SQUAD 7. 'Collateral Beauty' World Premiere 8. 'Ismael's Ghosts (Les Fantomes d'Ismael)' & Opening Gala Red Carpet Arrivals - The 70th Annual Cannes Film Festival 9. FRANCE-CANNES-FILM-FESTIVAL 10. 70th Cannes Film Festival - Closing Ceremony Arrivals Continue reading 49 & Fine: Will Smith’s Best Suited Red Carpet Moments Will Smith’s Instagram Page Is The Best Place On The Internet was originally published on hellobeautiful.com	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4102
__label__cc	0.513589	0.486411	March 14, 2017 April 6, 2019 joynealkidney Dale Wilson: Telegram on his mother’s birthday “The Secretary of War desires me to express his regrets that your son second Lieutenant Dale R. Wilson has been reported missing in action since twenty seven November over New Guinea. . . .” Leora Wilson received this penciled Western Union telegram on her December 4th birthday, in rural Dallas County, Iowa, near Minburn. By then, all five sons were in the military. Just the month before, Junior, the youngest, had just left for Sheppard Field, Wichita Falls, Texas, hoping to become pilot like Dale and Danny. Danny was in Basic Training at Marana, Arizona. Older sons Delbert and Donald were serving in the Navy. Daughter Doris had married an Iowa farmer who’d become an Army Air Force pilot, then an advanced flight instructor at Marfa, Texas. She was “expecting” a baby the next spring, but hadn’t told anyone yet. Daughter Darlene, twin to Lt. Dale R. Wilson, was a farm wife with a toddler. She lived near Earlham. She was the only family member near enough to go through the heartache with her parents. Dale Wilson had hoped to become a pursuit (fighter) pilot, but that early in the war, the Army Air Force needed bomber pilots in the South Pacific. He flew a B-25 Mitchell Bomber, but to his chagrin, his graduating class was made co-pilots for the class ahead. Dale didn’t want someone else in charge of flying the plane, and had even requested to be transferred when they got to Australia. The answer was no. Dale’s crew was assigned to the new 823rd Bomb Squadron of the 38th Bomb Group at 17-Mile Field, Port Moresby, New Guinea. 38th Bomb Group Most of the bombing and strafing missions were across the treacherous Owen Stanley Mountains. The mission of Dale’s crew on November 27, 1943, was again the troublesome Japanese air dromes at Wewak and Boram, on New Guinea’s north coast. Their B-25 was hit by AA fire. Other pilots saw the plane hit the water and bounce, but didn’t see any of crew in the sea. Because of extreme caution, the families of the six who were lost on that plane were not allowed to contact each other until over a year later. They consoled each other and speculated on what might have happened. Other crews had been rescued and made their way through the jungle. Perhaps. . . . The crew: Pilot 1st Lt. John M. Wieland, from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Co-pilot 2nd Lt. Dale R. Wilson, age 22, Minburn, Iowa Navigator 2nd Lt. John B. Stack, Grand Rapids, Michigan, married to an army nurse. Aer. Gunner S/Sgt. Irvin E. Wollenweber, Wheeling, W. Virginia Rad. Gunner S/Sgt. Stanley W. Banko, Everson, Pennsylvania Aer. Gunner S/Sgt. Willie T. Sharpton, Dacula, Georgia Wilsons received notes from people on the west coast who’d heard shortwave broadcasts naming Dale Wilson and John Stack as POWs of the Japanese, but this was never confirmed by the government. These six young Americans have never been found. 17-Mile Field 83rd BG 38th BG Dale R Wilson Dale Wilson Irvin E. Wollenweber John B. Stack John M. Wieland Minburn Iowa Port Moresby New Guinea Stanley @. Banko Willie Ted Sharpton Previous AWOL Next August 1945–Junior Wilson Dallas County Wilson Family Lost 3 Sons During WWII – Joy Neal Kidney says: […] left for combat in New Guinea. The Missing in Action telegram about him arrived on his mother’s 53rd birthday. Danny left for combat in Italy, and Donald was again in combat in the Pacific aboard the carrier […]	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4103
__label__wiki	0.624501	0.624501	Were the people of Chelm really unintelligent? [closed] There are many stories that are told over about the people who lived in Chelm. They all have the theme of: the people in Chelm were fairly unintelligent. Where did this come from? Is it true? It sounds highly unlikely that a whole city would be more unintelligent then the next city. history geography agada-stories-legends fool N123N123 closed as off-topic by mevaqesh, kouty, sabbahillel, mbloch, Avrohom Yitzchok Jul 21 '16 at 21:19 "Questions about the Hebrew language or about history or news of the Jewish people, Jewish individuals, or the State of Israel, except as related to Judaism, are off-topic. If this question does relate to Judaism, please edit it to indicate how." – mevaqesh, sabbahillel, mbloch, Avrohom Yitzchok And the neighboring town is Lublin, in which the yeshiva was called "Chachmei (wise men of) Lublin." Always wondered how that fit in... – Shalom Mar 16 '10 at 13:40 There may have been some rivalry or something. Perhaps people from Lublin looked down upon Chelmites? – Seth J Apr 28 '11 at 16:12 See this article It appears that the local inhabitants were not amused by this characterization, and had some witty one liners to those who insulted them. – mevaqesh Oct 10 '16 at 3:41 I've always speculated that it came from the fact that at one time Chelm had a very wise rabbi, named R' Shlomo (d. 1717). He is famous for his book Mirkeves Hamishneh, a commentary on the Rambam's Yad Hachazakah; appended to it is a work called Kuntreis Breichos Becheshbon, which analyzes difficult mathematical problems in the Torah. (Parts of the latter have been adapted into English under the title "Approaching Infinity," by M. Littman.) So conceivably, by comparison to R' Shlomo, everyone else in Chelm seemed like a fool! 83.1k11 gold badge135135 silver badges335335 bronze badges Is it possible that it was meant as a sarcastic joke? In the way that the gemara refers to someone as "Moshe" when they said something deemed unlikely, and the way we use "Einstein" to refer to someone not so smart. Could it work the other way, that originally Chelm had a reputation for great scholars like you mentioned, so people sarcastically referred to them as being stupid? – Curiouser Aug 4 '11 at 21:17 @Curiouser: could be, I guess. In that case, it's also conceivable that chassidim had something to do with it, because this same R. Shlomo was known for his sharp opposition to the movement. – Alex Aug 5 '11 at 20:44 I heard that the reason was because they were a Chassidic city, and in "popular culture", chassidim weren't known to be smart. Shmuel BrinShmuel Brin But then, why wouldn't the stereotype have focused on any of the many other towns in Eastern Europe that were the seats of various chassidic dynasties? – Alex Aug 5 '11 at 20:45 According to my Lithuanian grandparents, Chelm was a joke name used to make fun of Kelm. The city of Chelm is located in Poland, while the city of Kelm (Kelmé) is located in Lithuania. I don't recall if a reason was given for the switching of names, whether it has to do with mocking Polish in general or whether it was simply a matter of mispronouncing the name so as to aggravate and mock the Kelmites. Kelm was home to one of the outstanding Yeshivas in its time, the Yeshiva of Kelm, or Talmud Torah of Kelm. This mockery was originally started by Maskilim trying to ridicule the Bnei Torah who learned there. Looking here you will see how many famous Rabbis actually learned there. However people who don't know better and would never mock Bnei Torah seemed to have picked up on this joke and continued it without realizing how it started. (Perhaps the strong association of this Yeshiva with the Mussar helped this trend, but that is my own speculation.) A lady from Chelm mentioned in the Jewish Tribune about thirty years ago that it was very embarrasing telling people you were from Chelm when you went to Warsaw. pcozpcoz Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged history geography agada-stories-legends fool . From where do the maps of Kriyas Yam Suf come? Reconciling the Torah and history regarding the Jews' response to reward and punishment What if anything was the correspondence between mishmarim of kohanim and cities? List of oppressors of the Jewish people Did Achashverosh rule over the entire Old World? Great People Not Mentioned in the Torah What is the meaning of surnames that number-related? Recommend introductory resources on Jewish traditions in the Balkans Why did it take 2 days in the city of Shushan? How is it that the Talmud can make historical mistakes?	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4105
__label__cc	0.659751	0.340249	‘Disarming?’ By Adam Zyglis, The Buffalo News September 25, 2017 Today’s cartoon is used with the permission of Adam Zyglis. More of his work may be seen here. Cartoons are the property of their respective artists and are subject to copyright laws. Do not reproduce or redistribute this cartoon without permission of the artist. Adam Zyglis, The Buffalo News You must credit us as the original publisher, with a hyperlink to our khn.org site. If possible, please include the original author(s) and “Kaiser Health News” in the byline. Please preserve the hyperlinks in the story. It’s important to note, not everything on khn.org is available for republishing. If a story is labeled “All Rights Reserved,” we cannot grant permission to republish that item. Have questions? Let us know at KHNHelp@kff.org	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4111
__label__wiki	0.836329	0.836329	The Knight Times The Student News Site of Kings High School “That’s My Boy” Filed under Features, Sports D. Bezmen Kings Senior football captain Tommy Bruns has been selected as a finalist for the National Football Foundation’s “That’s My Boy” Award. Tommy was the only athlete to receive this nomination from the Eastern Cincinnati Conference. In order to qualify for this award the athlete must show exceptional football skills, a strong academic career and involvement in their community. Bruns’ football coach, Andy Olds says he demonstrates all these qualifications and more. “Tommy is the same person on the field and off, this award is a big indication of his overall character,” Olds said. Coaches and teammates are all able to see why Bruns is nominated. Sean Horan, Kings Class of 2012 finalist and also Bruns’ former teammate says, “Tommy played on the varsity scout team as a freshman when I was a senior, my favorite part about him was that he never took a play off, attacked the game with an incredible attitude, and always had a smile on his face.” On March 3. all finalists will be awarded and the winner will be announced at Westin Hotel in downtown Cincinnati. There are only nine finalists from southwest Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana. This award is a big honor and there have been multiple former Kings students who have been a finalist or winner. “It was incredibly flattering to be nominated for such an award. To even be nominated means that you are the most well rounded athlete in your league and Tommy Bruns deserves every bit of it,” says Horan. As Bruns recieves this nomination he reflects on the impact his community had on him and how it shaped him to be who he is today, “It’s very humbling to receive this nomination, it reminds me of all the opportunities I’ve had in my community. It feels awesome.” Bruns will be attending The United States Air Force Academy next fall to play football. According to Olds, Bruns’ future looks bright, “Tommy will do big things in his career, he’s capable of doing something shocking and I can’t wait to see what it’ll be.” What's your favorite subject? Tweets by khsknighttimes Around the World in 80 Outfits The Odd One Out Finally Feeling the Spotlight Her Power with a Pen Michael Messer: International Man of Mystery Most Likely to Design the Next Generation Soft Voice, Loud Beats Jordan “we love him but don’t tell him we said that” Cornelison Hoop Dreams Deferred It’s the Great Guitar Solo, Charlie Badger	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4112
__label__wiki	0.691387	0.691387	Motorola Solutions announces first public-safety portable two Way Radio with LTE connectivity You’ve probably stumbled upon this looking for information about walkie talkie reviews’s, hopefully this will help you answer some of those questions, if not please click on one of the relevant links within the article Motorola Solutions today announced the APX 7000L, a multiband P25 portable radio with an LTE module that enables the transmission and reception of broadband data—the first product to include LTE connectivity in a public-safety-grade LMR handheld device. Expected to be available early in the third quarter this year, the APX 7000L provides the same multiband and ergonomic capabilities as the APX 7000, but the APX 7000L—the “L” is for LTE—includes an LTE module that provides broadband connectivity, according to Mike Petersen, Motorola Solutions’ director of Astro subscriber product management. “This device just brings some fantastic opportunities to our customers,” Petersen said during an interview with IWCE’s Urgent Communications. “With over-the-air programming, to send over a new code plug … over traditional LMR data networks, it could take several minutes to do that. [With the LTE connectivity], we can take a 3 MB file and shove it over in less than 12 seconds. “Not only is a fantastic speed change, but I’m not competing with voice [to send data]. On some of your integrated [LMR] voice and data networks, when you start to talk—voice is the primary item of that Kenwood two way radio and is always priority—you would interrupt that data transmission when you address the voice call. That’s done. You don’t have to worry about that anymore with this solution, because you’ve got an LTE path that’s focused on bringing that information or code plug to that radio while you can simultaneously be talking on voice channel.” The ability to rekey and install code plugs quickly is particularly important to federal law-enforcement users that routinely need to use such features to operate securely on different LMR networks, according to Petersen. For this reason, federal law-enforcement entities are expected to be the first customers for the APX 7000L, although Motorola Solutions also will market it to state and local public-safety agencies, he said. February 21, 1972 by kimhelveyprcewt Leave a comment New radio system OK’d for Leicester police Some of these trained writers on the web are at such a high level that i wonder if any of them have ever created a book? well now and then i like to highlight these outstanding items and here�s one i thought was remarkable the other day. A new Police Department Walkie talkie system will cover Leicester from “soup to nuts,” and meet or exceed all public safety needs, according to Police Chief James Hurley.� Selectmen on Monday night approved a purchase order of $190,348 to get the Motorola Solutions equipment, which includes 11 mobile units and 25 handsets. They authorized borrowing $138,400 through People’s United Bank with an interest rate of 0.6 percent.� Town Administrator Kevin Mizikar explained that the overall project, approved by town meeting a few years ago, totaled $238,000, which includes proposed upgrades to the Highway and Fire Departments.� As to the police portion, Chief Hurley emphasized that improvements are needed to carry the department “into the future” and to solve the “enormous” current problem of inadequate communications in certain parts of Leicester.� “Everything the officers need has to be on the tip of their fingers and I think this will work well,” the police chief said.� Although the vendors noted that the life span of the mobiles was about seven years, the chief said the upgrade process needed to be continuous. Board members were also assured that their investment would be protected because the Walkie talkies contained embedded software that could be kept up to speed with changing technology.� Selectmen also approved a lateral transfer of police Officer Ronald Tarentino Jr. to Auburn. Chief Hurley said the officer had stayed in town until three of his colleagues who were on sick leave returned to their jobs. He said it was a positive career move for the officer and the town would continue to lose its personnel until a strategic plan was put together to adequately fund the department.� Neighboring communities have opportunities for details, motorcycle units and other programs that Leicester gave up years ago and it is difficult to attract and keep candidates, the chief said.� The department has had to operate with as few as 13 people. “Six or seven years ago, Leicester was the place to come and we got a lot of r�sum�s. Now, our officers are going to Paxton, Oxford, etc. where they have stuff we don’t. That can’t be fixed without money,” the chief added.� Selectman Tom Buckley acknowledged that he wasn’t surprised employees are going elsewhere because of the town’s budget constraints. “I feel like Leicester is the training ground for other communities,” he said. Buckley praised the department for doing a “remarkable” job despite being shorthanded.� The board members also reminded the public that town meeting convenes at 7 p.m. Tuesday at Town Hall, where voters will consider a proposed $25.7 million budget.�	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4114
__label__cc	0.608978	0.391022	kottke.org posts about weblogs Game of Thrones food blog posted by Jason Kottke Jun 17, 2011 The Inn at the Crossroads is a blog dedicated to exploring the cuisine of George R.R. Martin’s Fire and Ice book series, from which HBO’s Game of Thrones is adapted. The Queen took a flagon of sweet plum wine from a passing servant girl and filled Sansa’s cup. “Drink,” she commanded coldly. “Perhaps it will give you courage to deal with truth for a change.” On pagination navigation posted by Jason Kottke May 10, 2011 Sippey posted a brief item on pagination navigation on “river of news” type sites, comparing the opposite approaches of Stellar and Mlkshk. I thought a lot about where to put those buttons and what to label them. There’s no good correct answer. For example, “older” usually points the way to stuff further back in the timeline that you haven’t read, i.e. it’s new to you but old compared to the first page of stuff…are you confused yet? I focused on two things in choosing a nav scheme: 1. The Western left-to-right reading pattern. If you’re in the middle of reading a book, the material to your left is a) chronologically older and b) has already been read and the material to your right is a) chronologically newer and b) unread. From a strict data perspective, a) is the correct way to present information but websites/blogs don’t work like books. b) is how people actually how people use blogs…when a user gets to the bottom of the page, they want to see more unread material and that’s naturally to the right. 2. Consistency. Once you add page numbers into the mix — e.g. “< newer 1 2 3 4 older >” — it’s a no-brainer which label goes where. I don’t think I’ve ever seen the reverse: “< older 4 3 2 1 newer >”. Also, I do whatever Dan Cederholm does. (But dammit, he does the opposite on his blog! Hair tearing out noise!!) That said, I like Sandy’s suggestion of getting rid of the “newer” button altogether: We put “Older” on the right, but did away with “Newer” altogether in favor of a link back to page 1. If they want to go back to the previous pages, people can use their back button. http://mlkshk.com/p/212C Or maybe put “newer” at the top of the page? Still a waste of screen real estate? Anyway, once I figure out how I want to do infinite scrolling on Stellar, those problematic older/newer buttons will go away. Huzzah! Dan Cederholm Michael Sippey Mlkshk Queen of All Me Media posted by Jason Kottke Feb 24, 2011 Dooce gets the NY Times Magazine treatment this weekend. More than anything, reading it made me nostalgic for a certain short period of time where people could write personal blogs intended to be read by more than just family and a few friends without worrying about money or a “personal brand”. God, those were the (clearly unsustainable) days…here’s the new reality: Amy Oztan, who blogs at SelfishMom.com, is particularly transparent when it comes to her sponsors. She has a lot of them — companies who pay her, in money or in product, to advertise on her site or to mention them. Oztan has an entire section explaining how she makes her money, including an extensive index of tabs she uses to alert readers to the economics of everything she writes. It starts with Level 1 — “The product or service mentioned was provided to Amy free of charge (or at a considerable discount not available to the public)” — and goes up to Level 13: “This is a sponsored post. Amy was compensated to write this post. While Amy’s opinions in the post are authentic, talking points may have been suggested by the sponsor.” In between these extremes are compensation for inserting links to a certain Web site, attending an event or administering a product giveaway. Which pretty much explains why, between daily witticisms, she so regularly describes how she offered Kleenex to the woman next to her at a conference or placed her HTC HD7 Windows phone on the tray table next to her when she lucked into an empty row on her last plane trip. Movable Type sold to Infocom posted by Jason Kottke Jan 21, 2011 Six Apart Japan, Movable Type, and the Six Apart brand will be acquired by Infocom, a Japanese IT firm. We are happy to announce that Six Apart KK (SAKK), a Japanese subsidiary of SAY Media, has entered into an agreement to be acquired by Infocom, a Japanese IT company, as of February 1, 2011. As part of this transaction, SAKK will assume responsibility for the worldwide Movable Type business, and the Six Apart brand. We at SAKK are very excited to continue our investment in Movable Type, the Movable Type Open Source project and the worldwide community of developers, publishers and bloggers around the world that use Movable Type. This depresses me. (via waxy) Six Apart Fake Criterion films Favorite Tumblr of the week: Fake Criterions, featuring mockups of Criterion films that would never get made. For example: Note: a surprising non-fake Criterion is Michael Bay’s Armageddon. Well, it does feature Steve Buscemi and Oscar winners Billy Bob Thornton and Ben Affleck. (thx, george) Kim Jong-il looks at things A collection of photos of Dear Leader looking at things: corn, your desktop, wheat. Actually, I can’t recall seeing a photo of Kim doing anything but looking at stuff. (thx, steve) Civil War blog Disunion is a new NY Times blog that will be covering the events of the Civil War in “real-time” as it happened 150 years ago. From one of the first posts about the last ordinary day: [November 1, 1860] was an ordinary day in America: one of the last such days for a very long time to come. In dusty San Antonio, Colonel Robert E. Lee of the U.S. Army had just submitted a long report to Washington about recent skirmishes against marauding Comanches and Mexican banditti. In Louisiana, William Tecumseh Sherman was in the midst of a tedious week interviewing teenage applicants to the military academy where he served as superintendent. In Galena, Ill., passers-by might have seen a man in a shabby military greatcoat and slouch hat trudging to work that Thursday morning, as he did every weekday. He was Ulysses Grant, a middle-aged shop clerk in his family’s leather-goods store. Great idea. The Times started publishing in 1851 so their archives should have a ton of stuff related to the war. (via df) Sicha and pals are Awl in (and other puns) posted by Jason Kottke Oct 25, 2010 Nice little piece by David Carr in the NY Times about The Awl, a small batch blogging concern owned and operated by Choire Sicha, Alex Balk, and David Cho. “My friends keep talking to me about how they want to start a Web site, but they need to get some backing, and I look at them and ask them what they are waiting for,” Mr. Sicha said. “All it takes is some WordPress and a lot of typing. Sure, I went broke trying to start it, it trashed my life and I work all the time, but other than that, it wasn’t that hard to figure out.” Alex Balk Choire Sicha David Cho The Awl And the Pursuit of Happiness Maira Kalman’s lovely illustrated NY Times blog about American democracy is now available in book form. Roger Ebert talks with Errol Morris posted by Jason Kottke Sep 17, 2010 Roger Ebert recently sat down with Errol Morris to talk about his new movie, Tabloid, and a bunch of other stuff. The interview is presented as a series of eight YouTube videos. In this one, he talks about how he got started writing his blog for The NY Times and how that helped him get over his 30-year struggle with writer’s block: He’s working on a seventeen-part article about a murder case for the blog. Seventeen parts! Sesame Street on Tumblr They’re posting classic clips from past shows. Zuckerberg and Style Rookie and Dyson The New Yorker has a trio of interesting articles in their most recent issue for the discerning web/technology lady or gentlemen. First is a lengthy profile of Mark Zuckerberg, the quite private CEO of Facebook who doesn’t believe in privacy. Zuckerberg may seem like an over-sharer in the age of over-sharing. But that’s kind of the point. Zuckerberg’s business model depends on our shifting notions of privacy, revelation, and sheer self-display. The more that people are willing to put online, the more money his site can make from advertisers. Happily for him, and the prospects of his eventual fortune, his business interests align perfectly with his personal philosophy. In the bio section of his page, Zuckerberg writes simply, “I’m trying to make the world a more open place.” The second is a profile of Tavi Gevinson (sub. required), who you may know as the youngster behind Style Rookie. Tavi has an eye for frumpy, “Grey Gardens”-inspired clothes and for arch accessories, and her taste in designers runs toward the cerebral. From the beginning, her blog had an element of mystery: is it for real? And how did a thirteen-year-old suburban kid develop such a singular look? Her readership quickly grew to fifty thousand daily viewers and won the ear of major designers. And C, John Seabrook has a profile of James Dyson (sub. required), he of the unusual vacuum cleaners, unusual hand dryers, and the unusual air-circulating fan. In the fall of 2002, the British inventor James Dyson entered the U.S. market with an upright vacuum cleaner, the Dyson DC07. Dyson was the product’s designer, engineer, manufacturer, and pitchman. The price was three hundred and ninety-nine dollars. Not only did the Dyson cost much more than most machines sold at retail but it was made almost entirely out of plastic. In the most perverse design decision of all, Dyson let you see the dirt as you collected it, in a clear plastic bin in the machine’s midsection. Things Organized Neatly posted by Jason Kottke Aug 30, 2010 A collection of photos of things organized neatly. If only life were like this. Fidel Castro has a blog And here it is. He’s written 40 entries about capitalism and 44 about the blockade. (via @tcarmody) Best sites for film criticism posted by Jason Kottke Jul 20, 2010 An annotated list of the best film criticism blogs. (via the house next door) Blogging the periodic table Sam Kean is blogging the periodic table of elements over at Slate. Starting today, I’ll be posting on a different element each weekday (the blog will run through early August), starting with the racy history of an element we’ve known about for hundreds of years, antimony, and ending on an element we’ve only just discovered, the provisionally named ununseptium. I’ll be covering many topics-explaining how the table works, relaying stories both funny and tragic, and analyzing current events through the lens of the table and its elements. Above all, I hope to convey the unexpected joys of the most diverse and colorful tool in all of science. If you like that, Kean has written a whole book on the topic. Sam Kean Are blogs dying? The answer is yes, sorta, and no. People are not tiring of the chance to publish and communicate on the internet easily and at almost no cost. Experimentation has brought innovations, such as comment threads, and the ability to mix thoughts, pictures and links in a stream, with the most recent on top. Yet Facebook, Twitter and the like have broken the blogs’ monopoly. Pepsi blog on nutrition? ScienceBlogs has added a blog about “innovations in science, nutrition and health policy” sponsored by Pepsi to their roster. Posters to the blog will include Pepsi research staff. Some of the other bloggers on ScienceBlogs are not happy. However, that said, I am completely mystified by ScienceBlogs’ latest development: adding the PepsiCo “nutrition” Blog. How does ScienceBlogs expect to maintain their (OUR) credibility as a science news source (we are picked up by Google news searches afterall) when they are providing paid-for content under the guise of news? Further, I cannot imagine what sorts of credible nutrition research PepsiCo is doing that they can or will actually talk about publicly, nor can I possibly imagine any “food” corporation actually caring about promoting public health. PepsiCo is a corporation, not a research institute, fer crissakes! (via @tcarmody) Time’s best blogs of 2010 On the list are kottke.org favorites like Hilobrow, The Sartorialist, Shorpy, The Awl, and Roger Ebert’s Journal. Seminal webzine archives back online After nine years offline, FEED Magazine republishes its archives. Welcome to the archives of the web magazine FEED. Launched in May of 1995, it was among a handful of “webzines”—as they were once called—in existence then. FEED tried to re-imagine how we would read and write in the digital age even as we dedicated ourselves to the craft of writing, a craft we were perfecting as green writers and editors ourselves. We also convinced a handful of published authors to contribute. Hence, FEED was billed as the first Web-only magazine to feature “established writers.” But its ultimate legacy may be the collection of writers who published some of their earliest work at FEED, and who then went on to luminous careers: the novelist Sam Lipsyte, Wonkette’s Ana Marie Cox, media theorist Clay Shirky, New Yorker music critic Alex Ross, Talkingpointmemo’s Josh Marshall, and many others. One of the pieces that FEED published was an early look at weblogs by Julian Dibbell. (You have no idea how much it bruised a certain naive blogger not to have been mentioned in that article. Perhaps there’s been a certain “I’ll show ‘em” element to this person’s blog ever since. Or so I’ve heard.) Julian Dibbell You’re either repetitive, bored, or urgent Google breaks down mobile device users into three categories: repetitive now, bored now, and urgent now. The “repetitive now” user is someone checking for the same piece of information over and over again, like checking the same stock quotes or weather. Google uses cookies to help cater to mobile users who check and recheck the same data points. The “bored now” are users who have time on their hands. People on trains or waiting in airports or sitting in cafes. Mobile users in this behavior group look a lot more like casual Web surfers, but mobile phones don’t offer the robust user input of a desktop, so the applications have to be tailored. The “urgent now” is a request to find something specific fast, like the location of a bakery or directions to the airport. Since a lot of these questions are location-aware, Google tries to build location into the mobile versions of these queries. This works for general web users as well. Blogs do well when they appeal to repetitive now and bored now users, but the really effective ones target all three types at once. Somehow this is related to stock and flow. The Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows is a collection of imagined definitions for useful contemporary phrases. My two favorite recent entries are the McFly effect: n. the phenomenon of observing your parents interact with people they grew up with, which reboots their personalities into youth mode, reverting to a time before the last save point, when they were still dreamers and rascals cooling their heels in the wilderness, waiting terrified and eager to meet you for the first time and especially contact high-five: n. an innocuous touch by someone just doing their job — a barber, yoga instructor or friendly waitress — that you enjoy more than you’d like to admit, a feeling of connection so stupefyingly simple that it cheapens the power of the written word, so that by the year 2025, aspiring novelists would be better off just giving people a hug. (thx, john) High-brow World Cup blog The New Republic has started up their World Cup blog again. This spring, we recruited Aleksandar Hemon to write a monthly column about soccer and encouraged him to write without pandering to a broad audience. And that’s the same spirit that we’ve embraced for this enterprise. Our cast of bloggers is filled with many eminent novelists and journalists (and a Deputy Mayor of New York City). They will write about the spiritual and metaphysical aspects of this tournament, I’m sure. But they will also write about tactics and players and coaches. They have a green light to be as wonky as they want. Self-delusion You Are Not So Smart is a blog about self-delusion. There are recent entries on the Dunning-Krueger effect, fanboyism and brand loyalty, and the misinformation effect. The Misconception: Memories are played back like recordings. The Truth: Memories are constructed anew each time from whatever information is currently available, which makes things like eyewitness testimony unreliable. (via mr) FiveThirtyEight goes to the NY Times Nate Silver’s FiveThirtyEight is licensing its content to the NY Times for the next three years. In the near future, the blog will “re-launch” under a NYTimes.com domain. It will retain its own identity (akin to other Times blogs like DealBook), but will be organized under the News:Politics section. Once this occurs, content will no longer be posted at FiveThirtyEight.com on an ongoing basis, and the blog will re-direct to the new URL. In addition, I will be contributing content to the print edition of the New York Times, and to the Sunday Magazine. The Times’ own Media Decoder blog notes that the deal is similar in structure to the arrangement Freakonomics enjoys at the newspaper: more of a rental than a purchase. I believe Andrew Sullivan has had similar deals at the various publications at which he’s blogged. (thx, nevan) Nate Silver Marina Abramovic Made Me Cry Marina Abramović Made Me Cry is the Tumblr blog of the moment. Abramovic sits at a table in silence, and museum guests can sit across from her and stare. Some people couldn’t handle the heat. Long-form journalism Longform.org is collecting some of the best long-form journalism available on the web. See also Instapaper’s editor’s picks and @longreads on Twitter. (thx, yehuda) Quitting the internet James Sturm, fearing he’s addicted to the internet, is going offline for four months. He’s blogging about it (via fax and phone) for Slate. Even when I am away from the computer I am aware that I AM AWAY FROM MY COMPUTER and am scheming about how to GET BACK ON THE COMPUTER. I’ve tried various strategies to limit my time online: leaving my laptop at my studio when I go home, leaving it at home when I go to my studio, a Saturday moratorium on usage. But nothing has worked for long. More and more hours of my life evaporate in front of YouTube. Supposedly addiction isn’t a moral failing, but it feels as if it is. James Sturm Beautiful software posted by Jason Kottke Mar 24, 2010 For my future reference: Well Placed Pixels, a blog highlighting beautiful software. (via df) My interview on The Pipeline I try not to do too many interviews these days (they tend to get in the way of actually getting stuff done), but I was pleased to be interviewed for an episode of Dan Benjamin’s Pipeline podcast. They discuss blogging for a living, general vs. niche blogs, content longevity, making the transition to full-time blogging, how taking a break (even for a week) can affect traffic, finding links, guest bloggers, the good and bad of comments, and more. (Christ, is that my voice? I was just getting over a cold…) Dan Benjamin	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4121
__label__wiki	0.792225	0.792225	Law Deans on Legal Education Blog Lucre, Malice and The Charleston School of Law By I. Richard Gershon Charleston Law board members, and former federal magistrates Robert Carr and George Kosko, have made public statements that they would rather have the law school close, than approve board member Ed Westbrook's plan. Westbrook has formed a nonprofit corporation to run the school, which he says would provide a viable alternative to selling it to the for-profit InfiLaw System. A majority of the original five member board had always planned to transition the school to a nonprofit model, once it was firmly established. Unfortunately, two board members retired, and Carr and Kosko saw the school as a road to personal wealth. It is disappointing, but not surprising, that Carr and Kosko are putting their interests ahead of the students, faculty, staff, alumni and Charleston legal community. Despite the prohibitions found in Canon 4A of the Code of Conduct for United States Judges, Magistrates Carr and Kosko were governing board members of CSOL, and they spent several hours of the day at the school. Neither Carr, nor Kosko contributed money to the founding of the school. Instead, they each signed a $400,000 note to repay Ed Westbrook from the revenue of the law school. Westbrook is the only board member who actually funded the school in its start-up years. The plans put forth by the five law school founders showed that repayment was expected to take place over a five year period. The initial entering class was projected to be 125 full-time students. Instead, the school was able to enroll 135 full-time students and 65 evening students. The board had not planned to include an evening program, but the associate dean of admission convinced them that there was pent-up demand for a limited evening program. The faculty were enthusiastic about teaching in the evening program. The median LSAT for this inaugural class (including the evening students) was a respectable 151. The result would be that the school earned enough money in two years, rather than the projected five, to cover the notes of Carr and Kosko. From that point on, they had no risk. Irrespective of the fact that they had acquired their interests in the law school by leveraging student tuition dollars, and the dedicated work of faculty and staff, Carr and Kosko regularly referred to the law school as belonging to them. George Kosko,who was not renewed as a magistrate after his first eight-year term, frequently bullied faculty and staff members. He has now turned towards Ed Westbrook, and the remaining faculty, because they have fought the sale to Infilaw. It is unconscionable that CSOL is offering buy-outs, when Carr and Kosko have each withdrawn in excess of $5 million from the school over the last 3 years. Oaths of admission to many state bars state that the lawyer will not "delay anyone's cause for lucre or malice." The mess at the Charleston School of Law can almost completely be attributed to two board members, who are the embodiment of lucre and malice. More to come on this story. https://lawprofessors.typepad.com/law_deans/2015/03/lucre-malice-and-the-charleston-school-of-law.html This blog is an Amazon affiliate. Help support Law Deans on Legal Education by making purchases through Amazon links on this site at no cost to you. Sara Kubik on The ABA 75% Rule: Dead on Arrival? Hill Kane on The ABA 75% Rule: Dead on Arrival? Rick Bales on The ABA 75% Rule: Dead on Arrival? anonymous on The ABA 75% Rule: Dead on Arrival? Anon on What Would an Efficient Market for Law Schools Look Like? Call for Papers: Women in the Law Symposium Frakt on Accreditation-by-Lawsuit Call for Nominations for 2019 AALS Section on Women in Legal Education Ruth Bader Ginsburg Lifetime Achievement Award The Futures of Legal Education: A Virtual Symposium Women's Leadership in Academia Conference Announcement and Call for Proposals Please Select \ Games The Archives Please Select October 2018 May 2018 March 2018 January 2018 February 2017 November 2016 October 2016 September 2016 June 2016 May 2016 March 2016 February 2016 Richard Bales Ohio Northern University College of Law Southern Illinois University School of Law I. Richard Gershon Dean and Professor University of Mississippi School of Law Martin Katz University of Denver, Sturm College of Law Daniel Rodriguez Dean and Harold Washington Professor Northwestern University School of Law Michael Hunter Schwartz Kellye Y. Testy Dean and James W. Mifflin University Professor of Law University of Washington School of Law Frank Wu Chancellor & Dean, William B. Lockhart Professor of Law University of California Hastings College of the Law David N. Yellen A Blog Devoted to Legal Education and the Legal Profession from the Perspective of Law Deans.	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4127
__label__cc	0.664056	0.335944	Kaissa Stores asks you to accept cookies for performance and advertising purposes. Performance cookies will help us collect anonymous data to make your experience better on our site, while ad cookies are provided by third parties to provide you with personalized ads and content relevant to your preferences. To see more information or to change your preferences, click the "More Info" button. We would also advise you to read the Terms of Use page Do you accept these cookies and the resulting processing of personal data? These cookies are necessary for the site to work properly. These cookies are used to monitor the functionality and the performance of the website, as users navigate. By disabling these cookies there might be delays in your navigation. These cookies are used in order to make unique suggestions to you, not only in the website, but outside as well. They contains some personal information such as which site you visited after this one etc. If you disable this, we will not be able to make suggestions regarding your prefferences. FOR OUT OF STOCK PRODUCTS PLEASE CONTACT BRICK & MORTAR STORES HERE E-mail Orders: orders@kaissagames.com Kaissa Board Games RPGs - Misc dice 80 arkham horror 42 chess 115 unlock 6 memoir 13 KeyForge 4 Kaissa Board RPGs-Misc DD5: ACQUISITIONS INCORPORATED WTCC72550000 Welcome to Acquisitions Incorporated! Explore a wealth of peril and personalities for the world’s greatest roleplaying game. When you’re just starting out in the adventuring business, it might be nice to have a leg up. It can be a big help to have access to the powerful artifacts, expertise, and jobs that Acquisitions Incorporated has to offer a new franchise. Join Omin Dran, Jim Darkmagic, and Viari like never before with the new Acquisitions Incorporated campaign book for Dungeons & Dragons! Acquisitions Incorporated is a different flavor of Dungeons & Dragons: A fifth edition D&D book created in partnership with Penny Arcade Inc. and inspired by the hugely popular podcast, video series, and sell-out live shows. This book is full of madcap heists, hilarious moments, and content for both players and DMs, including new character options and backgrounds, plus an adventure that will take characters from levels 1 to 6. KALLIDROMIOU 8 & IPPOKRATOUS, EKSARCHEIA TEL.: 210 36 06 488 Monday, Wednesday 09:30-15:30 Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 09:30 - 20:30 to be informed about all our new products!	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4128
__label__wiki	0.969213	0.969213	Neil Young Announces Short Solo Theater Tour Matt Kincaid, Getty Images Neil Young has announced a brief solo tour that will take place in January, which he’s titled the Big M Theater Tour, presumably because the name of each town he’ll visit starts with an "M." You can see the five dates below. The news follows the announcement that Young will release an expanded version of his classic 1990 album Ragged Glory that's set to contain an additional 28 minutes of unheard music. “Listening to these [unreleased] tracks is a real head-scratcher,” reads a statement on his website. “They are equal to anything on the existing record, maybe better. Possibly, the thought at the time was to have a single album and not include the songs from the last half of the unique ‘set oriented’ recording sessions.” Young was recently angered to discover that an appearance in London’s Hyde Park scheduled for July 12 had been announced without his permission. He said he’d been in discussions about the show but didn't wanted to proceed with Barclays bank as sponsor. Calling the financial corporation a “fossil fuel funding entity,” he added, “That doesn’t work for me. I believe in science. I worry about the climate crisis and am deeply concerned about its massive global ramifications.” He later said the show, with Bob Dylan, would go ahead without the Barclaycard Presents British Summer Time sponsorship banner attached. “We are overjoyed, so happy to be playing the show!" Young noted. Neil Young Solo Tour Dates, January 2019 Jan. 23 – Milwaukee, WI @ Riverside Theatre Jan. 24 – Madison, WI @ Overture Center Jan. 26 – Minneapolis, MN @ Pantages Theater Jan. 28 – Minneapolis, MN @ Orpheum Theatre Jan. 29 – Minneapolis, MN @ State Theatre Neil Young Albums Ranked Next: Top 10 Neil Young Songs Source: Neil Young Announces Short Solo Theater Tour Filed Under: Neil Young Categories: Concerts, National & Global News	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4136
__label__cc	0.74609	0.25391	2017/2018 BA-BIMKV1603U Naming & Framing as a tool for identity building and consumer communication across markets and cultures Naming & Framing as a tool for identity building and consumer communication across markets and cultures Study Board for BA in Intercultural Marketing Communication Viktor Smith - Department of Management, Society and Communication (MSC) Secretary - Tine Silfvander - ts.iadh@cbs.dk a clear understanding of the basic theoretical and methodological concepts and principles presented during the course ability to formulate and systematically pursue a set of clear research questions relative to the self-chosen exam case in accordance with established academic norms in either Danish or English hands-on skills in evaluating and performing creative wordmaking for commercial and/or organizational purposes as practiced in case-based excercises in class. The course welcomes undergraduate students from all CBS programmes, guest students from other Danish universities (if their profile and level is approved by the Study Board) and exchange students from abroad. It will contribute new insights and tools relevant to students specializing in marketing communication, branding, organizational communication, cross-cultural business communication, PR, language management, journalism, and related fields. Basic knowledge of communication and marketing will be an advantage, but profound knowledge is NOT expected. It is however essential that the students take a general interest in human communication and cognition, and the role of language as a tool of innovative thinking. Although the teaching language is English, the course will, to the extent possible, also draw upon and involve other languages, including the native languages and cultural backgrounds of participating exchange students. Naming & Framing as a Tool for Identity Building and Consumer Communication Across Markets and Cultures: During the course, you will identify a real-life case involving a naming & framing challenge of your own interest which you will use for the course paper project. The topic must be approved by the teacher. In relation to this you will use course literature relevant to the chosen topic. The exam paper should reflect the students' ability to: Formulate a set of clear-cut research questions relative to a self-identified real-life naming & framing challenge. Apply key concepts and methods presented during the course to analyzing the communicative and cognitive specifics of the case at hand Suggest and motivate original naming & framing solutions. What were smartphones, Apps, sneakers and Alzheimer's disease (and drugs against it) before they became known as... exactly that? “Having a name for it” is not just a matter of putting labels on objects and phenomena in the infinite variety of reality. It is a matter of categorizing such objects and phenomena, (re)identifying them at each new encounter, making sense of them, and encompassing them into our minds by relating them to our reasoning, values, and personal goals. In all but a trivial sense, this is tantamount to creating them as objects of human thought, desire, and action. When planted in the minds of other people, they will be remembered and affect the way they see things, possibly overshadowing competing names and other ways of seeing the “same” things. In turn, any act of naming involves framing in two distinct, but closely related respects. First, the origin, composition, and sometimes even sound of a new name will often frame whatever it denotes in a certain way, adding particular shades of meanings and positive or negative value to it, e.g. Nicotinell, Whopper, green taxes, humanitarian bombings, or lame duck. Yet since a name cannot “say” everything in itself, the final outcome will also strongly depend on how the name itself is framed by other words and sentences in the surrounding discourse, and by pictures, films, commercials, real-live events, packaging design and a host of other possible cues, including by people’s first-hand experiences with whatever the name is applied to. This is what has turned McDonalds into more than just some Anglo-American family name and what makes many people understand global warming as a threat to humanity rather than an opportunity to develop seaside resort tourism in Northern countries. The importance of naming and framing decisions is highly appreciated in a number of practice-oriented fields spanning from innovative product development, marketing, branding, and advertising to corporate communication, PR, lobbyism, politics, journalism, didactics and the development of professional terminologies. However, with a few exceptions, the issue is dealt with on a “strategic” level while the linguistic and cognitive mechanisms determining the success or failure of particular innovations pursuing particular purposes is mostly approached in anecdotic common-sense terms. Nevertheless, essential analytical tools and empirical insights are available in more fundamental directions of language and cognition research on when and how people spontaneously interpret and accept or reject unfamiliar words and word combinations, how surrounding verbal and visual cues can affect these processes, and how the typological specifics of different languages and language types can provide different conditions for successful naming and framing strategies across cultures. Aims and content The course aims at presenting some of the abovementioned insights in a concise and comprehensive form and relate them to the real-life naming and framing challenges encountered in the practice-oriented fields mentioned initially. The course will supply the participants with analytical skills and operational tools that will enable them to contribute constructively and suggest new ideas for the planning, implementation and evaluation of naming and framing decisions for a variety of purposes in private and public enterprises. A main focus will be the creation of names for novel products and their capability of affecting product and brand identity. Further topics include the use of naming and framing techniques in public issues management (by some called “spin”) and in cross-cultural communication, e.g., the management of global brands.The domains addressed may, within reasonable limits, encompass suggestions and input from the participants in view of their lines of study and general interests. In terms of disciplines, the course integrates theoretical and empirical research from the fields of experimental psycholinguistics, cognitive psychology and knowledge management with goal-driven research into product naming and branding, communicative fairness, and other issues of interest. A key focus is the interplay between the built-in semantic potential of the name itself and the additional stimuli (framing) that affect people’s online sense-making and gradual concept formation when encountering it in running discourse. The latter span from the ongoing negotiation of political buzzwords in mass media to the framing of innovative food products through words, texts and images on the product packaging. The course combines theoretical lectures with hands-on exercises and multiple choice tests that will reinforce the participant’s analytical and creative communication and language management skills. This includes oral group presentation of self-identified cases illustrating essential naming and framing challenges for peer discussion and feedback. The casework in class will serve also as a basis for singling out the case material for the final group exam. Thus, the choice of communicative domain for the final exam paper may reflect the interests and academic competences of the members of each group in view of their lines of study and general interests. The teaching will be performed by Viktor Smith and 2-3 guest lecturers. Feedback will be given to the students throughout the course, ín particular in connection with group case presentations and multiple choice tests. Preparation at home, lectures and workshops in class 130 hours Exam (including exam preparation) 76 hours Aitchison, J. (2012). Words in the mind. An introduction to the mental lexicon. Edition. Oxford: Blackwell. Benches, R. (2006). Creative compounding in English. Amsterdam: John Benjamins. Gill, T. & El Gamal, M. (2014), "Does exposure to dogs (cows) increase the preference for Puma (the color white)? Not always,” International Journal of Research in Marketing, 31, 125-126. Gill, T. & Dubé, L. (2007). “What is a leather iron or a bird phone? Using conceptual combinations to generate and understand new product concepts”. Journal of Consumer Psychology 17(3), 202-217. Riezebos, R. (2003). Brand Management: A Theoretical and Practical Approach. London:Prentice Hall. Smith, V.; Zlatev, J.; & Barratt, D. (2014). "Unpacking noun-noun compounds: Interpreting novel and conventional food names in isolation and on food labels." Cognitive Linguistics 25 (1), 99-147.	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4139
__label__wiki	0.568809	0.568809	“Beverly Hall” at the Revival Centre in Ukraine Beverly Kubik was honored at Chernihev, Ukraine's "Revival" Centre for her work with the rehabilitation post-Chernobyl children. The Center is located about 30 miles due east of the infamous reactor that exploded on April 26, 1986 and has caused untold misery for Ukrainian and Belorussian children. An area of the center was named "Beverly Hall" More fully it was called "Physical Therapy Hall (likuvalnij zal fiskulturi) in the name of Victor and Beverly Kubik - Beverly Hall. This hall is for physical therapy, massages, and exercise. Beverly led the drive to have this area built. Beverly Kubik holding sign for Beverly Hall “This hall built with funding from humanitarians from the United States Beverly and Victor Kubik. ‘Beverly Hall'” Over the years LifeNets has provided much support for the establishing and maintaining of this center of rehabilitation via containers, vehicles, medicine, and others means. Beverly and I have visited here numerous times in the past two decades, the latest being in June 2016 for the 20th-anniversary celebration of the establishment of the center. Present were many dignitaries including British Ambassador Judith Gough, the governor of the province of Chernihev and many others. LifeNets has been working with the Chernihiv Centre of Medical Social Rehabilitation of Disabled Children "Revival" since before it's opening in 1996. In fact, LifeNets became a public charity as a result of our work in this area which let here led to the development of other aid programs in Ukraine, then spreading to the establishment of a scholarship program, working in African and the rest is LifeNets history. This rehabilitation center has rehabilitated hundreds of children in the post-Chernobyl period from various disabilities and has also taken in children from war-torn eastern Ukraine in the past two years and helped hundreds more. Two other building areas that LifeNets sponsored is the Choreography Hall where children undergo dance therapy. That was a LifeNets sponsored project back more than ten years ago. An earlier one going back to 2000 was the building of a play area for children with a pavilion. The Center was established by Dr. pediatrician Vasyl Pasichnyk and his neurologist wife Natalia. They have bravely in spite of Ukraine's political and financial problems have been able to build and island of hope that LifeNets is glad to be a part of. More information about this day on our TravelArk blog at http://v2.travelark.org/travel-blog-entry/victorkubik/18/1466787527 https://lifenets.org/chernobyl Choreographic Therapy Hall funded by LifeNets Pavilion and play area sponsored by LifeNets Here are some photos of the June 23, 2016 Jubilee that we attended in Chernihiv, Ukraine. With British Ambassador Judith Gough on June 23, 2016 Bev looks over Beverly Hall With Dr. Vasyl Pasichnyk and his wife Natalia at their dacha Bev given special award and kiss from provincial governor of Chernihev Chernobyl, Events « Profile of Filipino Scholarship Student June 16, 2017 edition of LifeNets eNews » Browse Chernobyl Chernobyl Disaster Spawns Online Humanitarian Effort in Indianapolis "Beverly Hall" at the Revival Centre in Ukraine "Why Maurice Frohn can't forget the children of Chernobyl" Chernobyl Van Delivered! Colin Kubik visits Revival Centre in June 2018 - Ukraine Tolik in Ukraine helped Featuring Top 8/8 of Chernobyl	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4144
__label__wiki	0.625475	0.625475	« Michael Jackson: We Are the World Michael Jackson’s Glide Move » Michael Jackson Inspired Jail Dance June 27, 2009 by Lisa Waller Rogers Filipino inmates in `Thriller’ video stage tribute by AP writer Teresa Cerojano The Filipino inmates who shot to global fame with a YouTube video of their “Thriller” dance (July 2007) swayed and stomped again today, Saturday, June 27, in a behind-bars tribute to their idol, Michael Jackson. After being told of Jackson’s death Thursday in Los Angeles, the 1,500 inmates at the Cebu Provincial Detention and Rehabilitation Center hit the exercise yard, practicing for nine hours Friday night – and into the wee hours of Saturday morning – for the show. They took breaks only to eat or when it rained, said professional choreographer Gwendolyn Lador, hired by the prison to teach the inmates the dance. Filipino Prisoners dance to pop tunes such as “Thriller” and “Soulja Boy” as part of their physical fitness Inmate Alfredo Gaballo, 52, says Jackson “inspired us, so we are all sad about his death.” Crisanto Nieri, 38, was feeling a little extra stress. He danced Jackson’s part in “Thriller.” “Even as a kid, he was already my idol,” said Nieri, who is serving seven years on drug charges. “I am happy that our video became famous, but I feel some pressure to perform well.” A crowd of 700 Cebuanos and foreign tourists watched the performance from a second-floor corridor, swaying to the music and applauding as the inmates, dressed in orange prison T-shirts and sweat pants, stomped and clapped in unison in the hilltop prison, behind thick stone walls topped by electrified razor wire. Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” video was filmed in the historic Coconut Grove Bahamian Cemetery in Miami, Florida Other numbers included “Ben,” “I’ll Be There” and “We Are the World.” The inmates then held up a 5-by-10 foot (1.5-by-3 meter) tarpaulin showing Michael Jackson holding a sword with his name written below it. Others waved the flags of the Philippines and other nations. Before the show, the performers dedicated a prayer to Jackson’s family. “I was sad because one of the songs of Michael Jackson, `Thriller,’ made us famous around the world,” said Francis Mercader, 36, who has spent a year in detention while on trial for drug charges. Byron Garcia, the Cebu provincial security consultant who came up with the idea of adding synchronized dancing to poorly attended exercise sessions, said he was surprised by the popularity of the 2007 video – one of more than a dozen inmate dance numbers he has posted on YouTube. “Thriller” has attracted 24.3 million hits since it was posted two years ago, with nearly a million of them in the 24 hours since news of Jackson’s death spread. The inmates “consider Michael Jackson as a god here,” Garcia said. “If not for Michael Jackson, they would not have this international recognition.” “The fame brought them back their self-esteem,” he told reporters. “So that’s why we have these public performances.” Posted in Michael Jackson, PEOPLE \| Tagged Byron Garcia, Filipino prisoner video of Thriller, Michael Jackson, Michael Jackson "Thriller", Michael Jackson dies., the Philippines \| 3 Comments on June 28, 2009 at 4:50 PM \| Reply Elisha Marie How interesting! They must have worked incredibly hard on getting that dance down! on June 28, 2009 at 8:22 PM \| Reply lisa waller rogers Check out their other youtube hits – I like it when they danced the Hustle. on October 3, 2009 at 2:56 PM \| Reply AShtyn omg! i cant wait to see “this is it”! RIP Michael! ❤ Why Jackie Married Ari	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4145
__label__wiki	0.83114	0.83114	Hakihea / December 2018 Whiringa-ā-rangi / November 2018 Whiringa-ā-nuku / October 2018 Mahuru / September 2018 Here-turi-kōkā / August 2018 Hōngongoi / July 2018 Pipiri / June 2018 Haratua / May 2018 Paenga-whāwhā / April 2018 Poutū-te-rangi / March 2018 Hui-tanguru / February 2018 Hereturikōkā / August 2017 Paengawhāwhā / April 2017 Poutūterangi / March 2017 Kohitātea/January 2017 Pipiri / June Haratua (May) Paenga-whāwhā (April) Poutū-te-rangi (March) Hui-tanguru / February Hakihea/December 2015 & Kohi-tātea/January 2016 Whiringa-ā-rangi / November Whiringa-ā-nuku / October Mahuru / September Here-turi-kōkā / August Hōngongoi / July May / Haratua 2015 April / Paenga-whāwhā 2015 March/Poutū-te-rangi 2015 February / Hui-tanguru 2015 What was happening in April? – we’ve collected all the items here. Dyke Diary Ngā pitopito kōrero/News Charlotte museum’s new director Wanted – vulva poppies for Anzac Day Rainbow Panel for Auckland City? Sole lesbian in Comedy Festival Free wardrobe for young Aucklanders Wellington queer women honoured Butch on butch podcasts online Feminists on women’s inequality Older lesbians wanted for research … … And story collection News from all over Charlotte’s new director New Charlotte Museum dire ctor Nadia Gush, pictured below with her Sharpei cross Peaches, is enjoying her first job in a museum. “I’ve worked mostly in universities, but there’s a lot of cross-over – it’s nice to work in a different way with the same themes and interests.” Her one-year, 15-hours-a-week role is to plan events and exhibitions, so that they will be more regular than they have been. The vulva poppies exhibition for Anzac Day was her idea, “and it did reflect Miriam’s previous exhibition quite nicely”. Nadia is still recruiting knitters for that and arranging a speaker for the opening (“although opening seems a bad choice of words when you’re talking about vulvas!”). The museum is also looking for lesbian photographers to contribute to an exhibition opening on May 24 with the Auckland Festival of Photography which runs from May 28 – June 20. Nadia says she “would like to get more online focus, where we digitise parts of the collection and provide more of an online service. It would be more strategic and would bring the museum to a larger audience.” One difficulty is the lack of guaranteed funding “so the museum doesn’t have an enduring online space. We already have a Facebook page and I’ve revived a blog.” Nadia is exploring what the museum needs to do that – “we’d look for the things we have that no one else has digitised”. She’s checking with LAGANZ and other gay archives to see what is digitally available. Nadia lives in Hamilton and commutes from to Auckland on Wednesdays and Sundays, the days the museum is open. “We’d like to build the volunteer base to enable us to be open more days.” She has always had short-term contract jobs in the history programme at the University of Waikato, but this year she is doing her own research into the history of female companions and other New Zealand women’s history. Nadia is Pākehā and identifies as a feminist who happens to be lesbian; she first knew in her late teens but didn’t come out to her family straight away. She’s also interested in attracting younger women to the museum. She’s heartened that feminism is attracting more students to women’s and gender studies at Waikato University and that they are forming their own feminist student groups. Jenny R Vulva poppies wanted for Anzac Day Guerrilla knitting meets Georgia O’Keefe at the Charlotte Museum’s Anzac Day installation on April 25, which symbolically acknowledges the contribution of women to World War One. The museum welcomes contributions by home knitters of knitted vulva, vulva-poppies, and standard poppies in traditional ANZAC poppy-red, browns or pinks, preferably no bigger than 10-15cm across. They will be installed on the Charlotte Gallery walls in New Lynn for the opening. “We want hundreds of the little suckers,” say the museum’s volunteers; they need to arrive by April 20. Georgia O’Keeffe popularised but didn’t create the similarity between vulva and flowers. There has always been an association between flowers and Anzac Day, too, in part because of the 1916 poem about Flanders Fields where the poppies grow. But it took the Charlotte Museum to complete the triangle and associate vulva and Anzac Day. Museum volunteers held a vulva poppy knit-in on March 22. For a knitting pattern for a small knitted vulva, see the museum’s Facebook page. Post it into the museum at PO Box 47398, Ponsonby, Auckland 1144. Auckland Council to debate a Rainbow Panel Auckland Council will discuss a proposal for an advisory Rainbow Panel at its April 30 meeting. If the council agrees, LGBTT representatives will be able to contribute to council policy alongside the existing independent Māori statutory board, and advisory panels for business, people with disabilities, Pacific peoples, heritage, rural people, youth, and other ethnic communities. Mayor Len Brown expressed support for a Rainbow Panel at the last two Big Gay Out events, but it is by no means certain that the rest of the council will agree. The Community Development and Safety Committee passed the proposal by seven votes to two in March. Councillors George Wood and Calum Penrose opposed the move, saying that “the community” is calling for less spending on democracy services, the arm of council that runs the panels. LNA understands that conservative councillors are keen to reduce spending on advisory panels, rather than increase it. The panels provide strategic advice to the council on their community’s issues, and on how the council can engage effectively with that community. If agreed, the panel would replace the Rainbow Door Reference Group, which was established in 2010 and for a time had to organise under the radar due to the hostility of a former council. Casey said that the issue of LGBTT representation had come up again and again during her 11 years as a councillor. “This isn’t something that’s just popped up. This Rainbow Panel’s time has come.” At the committee, Nadia Gush of the Charlotte Museum, Linda Heavey of the Auckland Pride Festival, whakawahine Lexie Matheson, and representatives of the OUTLine national phone service, the Gay Auckland Business Association, Body Positive, and the Rainbow Tick all supported the panel. In the forums run by Rainbow Door that led to the committee decision, most LGBTT people supported a panel, but some saw it as assimilating LGBTT communities into the council structure, and reducing our ability to advocate for LGBTT people to council. The panel would have 12 members and a chair. It would cost $35,000 to establish and up to $80,000 a year to run, with most of the budget going to a Democracy Advisor who would organise meetings. The proposal for the council meeting will detail the selection process, which is likely to be similar to other panels. People would be invited to apply through a recruitment agency, and a small group made up of community members and council officers would select panel members. West Auckland lesbian community organiser, council staffer and former Rainbow Door co-ordinator, Cissy Rock, told the committee that it was important for the LGBTT community and the council to reach beyond the central city to marginalised and isolated LGBTT people in the rest of the Auckland region. Jenny Rankine Little lesbian content in Comedy Festival The 2015 International Comedy Festival will be in Wellington and Auckland April 24 to May 17, with an ensemble ‘Comedy Convoy’ also touring 19 centres. Only one out lesbian is on the programme: Urzila Carlson (left) has solo shows, Man Up, in both main centres: in Wellington nightly from Tuesday May 5 to Saturday May 9, and two shows in Auckland (Friday 15 and Saturday 16). She will be possibly the only woman in the Auckland gala opening (Friday April 24) and in the Wellington opening First Laughs (Monday April 27). In Wellington she is also part of The Good Guys team (Sunday May 3) and MCing two of the Late Laughs shows (Friday May 8 and Saturday 9). The programme does offer rainbow flags as well as country flags for performers – sadly, the rainbows only identify gay male performances. Free youth community wardrobe Rainbow Youth’s new Community Wardrobe for gender diverse and queer young people is availalbe at the back of their Karangahape Road drop-in centre in Auckland. Clothing donations from the community are sorted and available for young queer and trans* people to try on in a safe and affirming place, and take home for free. Drop donations at 281 Karangahape Rd, Newton between 11am and 5pm, Monday to Friday. Honoured Wellington queer women Wellington’s Rainbow Pride Community Honours are now available online as audio podcasts. Part one includes posthumous awards for Porleen Simmons and Pat Rosier; and awards for Ladyfruit; Kassie Hartendorp and Connor MeikleJohn; Tabby Besley (national co-ordinator of Inside Out, left) and Tania (Tarn) Billingsley, and others. Part two includes Louisa Wall MP, Leilani Visesio, Herbee Bartley and Fetu-ole-moana Teuila Tamapeau, among others. Part three includes awards for Sue Lytollis; Alison Laurie and Gareth Watkins of LAGANZ; Jean Malcolm, leader of The Glamaphones; Alofa Aiono, Elizabeth Kerekere, Karen and Peri Te Wao, Chanel Hati and Kevin Haunui of Tiwhanawhana; and Virginia Parker-Bowles, among others. Nominees were chosen by community organisations. Butch on butch Podcasts of several lesbians featured in Jac Lynch’s photographic project Butch on Butch, recently exhibited in Wellington, are now featured on Pridenz.com, and more podcasts from the 21 women will be posted over the next two months. Creek, George, Sara, Lynley, Stevie, Tasha and Zoe are part of what Jac describes as “a tribute to the people among us whose masculinity defies social and gender norms. They may or may not identify as butch, but on a daily basis they are confronted by, enjoy or ignore others’ view of them as such.” Copies of the exhibition booklet are still available for $25 including postage – email Jac. Feminists on inequality The current issue of Policy Quarterly on inequalities features five feminist articles, including lesbian economist Prue Hyman’s suggestions for interventions needed to improve women’s position in the labour market. Others discuss women’s work in the public service, better policy for sole parents living in poverty, responding better to women dealing with violence from their partners, and 30 years of the Ministry of Women’s Affairs. The rest of the issue focuses on inequalities in income, wages and wealth. See the website. Older lesbians wanted for research project … David Betts, a 23-year-old straight social work PhD student from the University of Canterbury, would like to interview older lesbian and GBTQ+ people about their experiences with social relationships and mental health. David wants to hear from those over 60 with some experience either directly or indirectly with mental health and wellbeing, such as anxiety, stress, depression or substance abuse. Information provided by participants will be kept confidential and the study has been approved by the University of Canterbury’s Human Ethics Committee. David says he uses “feminism as a strong base for my research, especially intersectional feminism that focuses on the structural nature of oppression resulting from patriarchal values combined with homophobic and heternormative attitudes, as well as a strong critique of ageism”. If you are interested in taking part, or know of someone who might be, email David or phone 027 430 7569. … And elder stories wanted A Melbourne queer publisher is looking for New Zealand stories from older lesbians and queer women for an anthology. The deadline for stories is the end of April, with a limit of 2,000 words. The non-profit publisher Rag and Bone Man Press aims to produce books for social change, and is run by editor and writer Elizabeth Whiley, who dances with Thursgay, and David Hardy, who writes about queer and indigenous identity. Contributions could include essays, memoirs, short stories, interviews, poems or a piece written around photographs. They could be about first love, struggle and defiance, resistance and pride, meeting that special someone, of passing on knowledge, fighting invisibility and of the comfort of friends and family. There is no payment, but accepted writers get invited to the launch. Contact David by email or see the website. What were we reading and viewing around the web in the last month? (Reminder: exercise caution when reading comments on any stories.) Korea: a secondary school student, responding to a survey about homosexuality, apparently a panicked response to a rumour there might be a lesbian couple in the school, writes a powerful statement that any adult should be proud to have said. Star Wars is getting an explicitly out lesbian character. In March, Slovenia, a small eastern European country (population 2 million), became the first in that region to pass legislation enabling same-sex marriage and adoption. Visit Wikipedia for more information about the recognition of same-sex unions. Japan, host of the 2020 Olympic Games, has formed a multiparty group (38 politicians from multiple parties) to look at LGBT rights. This follows increased awareness of anti-LGBT discrimination associated with Russian law and the Winter Olympics at Sochi, and the subsequent update to the Olympic Charter. The abuse of women online, especially when they voice opinions that are perceived as challenging (for example, challenging abuse of women), feminist, or pro-women, is prevalent and well-known. In Is the “L” in LGBTI silent?, lesbian feminist Liz Waterhouse writes about ‘aggressively misogynistic’ comments being made within our communities. While again the comments are mixed, it has prompted her to establish a new blog, listening2lesbians (tagline, ‘our voices matter’) to ‘allow women to submit their experiences of being abused or silenced as lesbians, of being subjected to misogyny and lesbophobia within and outside the community.’ Drawing from the Pages of Alison Bechdel, a special (effects) portrait of Alison Bechdel as a video compendium for the Dykes, Dads and Moms To Watch Out For exhibition in January/February. The UK Home Office argued Aderonke Apata, a Nigerian LGBT activist applying for asylum in Britain, at risk of lengthy imprisonment – or worse – if deported, is lying about being a lesbian. See stories from the Huffington Post and Independent; more positively, see the Asylum for Aderonke Facebook page. And the Mirror has an article that both makes a serious point AND mocks the Home Office mercilessly. Ngā tāngata, People What lesbians do – Steam train car steward Kapiti Coast’s monthly potluck Lesbians in Auckland Writers Festival Women in World War One, Auckland and Wellington Kapiti Coast resident Jenny Holdt first caught the train bug when she travelled on steam trains around India some years ago. “I like being part of an era that crosses the centuries. And you get to see places you don’t see from a plane, car or a bike.” She volunteered as train crew for Steam Incorporated in Paekakariki last year, and trained for her certification as a car steward. “The safety of the passengers is paramount; you have to know all the regulations and how to pull the emergency cord. It’s quite exciting stopping a train!” Passenger enjoyment and comfort are a large part of the role. “I have to know about the trains and carriages, like where they get the coal from (around Denniston) and how far we go on a load of coal – some of the questions are quite detailed.” Jenny’s first trip was to Dannevirke last year, since then she’s been to Taihape “for the gumboot tossing”; Wanganui, where the passengers could go on a paddleboat up the river; and Ohakune, where she went “up the mountain on a perfect day when the snow looked like candy floss. I had to check that all the passengers got back on the bus on the way back.” She’s also worked on day trips to Eketahuna, Woodville and Feilding, and the Grand Circle Rail Cruise which went to Palmerston North, Woodville, Masterton, Wellington and back to Paekakariki. “Everywhere you go there are people following us with still and video cameras on tripods, and lots of waving. Some of the passengers say they feel like royalty.” Jenny’s latest and longest trip was a five-day excursion to Napier for the Art Deco Weekend in February. “We left on Thursday 19 early and arrived in Napier after nine pm, a very long day, returning on the Monday. We were on the Ja1271 steam train built in 1956.” On the way they passed through Levin, Palmerston North, Dannevirke, Waipukurau and Hastings. “We have to give way to freight and milk trains which means that travel usually takes longer, and that day there was a derailment in the Napier yard that stopped a freight train leaving. So we were stuck waiting for over an hour at Otane, but no one minded. The passengers got out, many dressed up in art deco cozzies, had glasses of wine and talked and laughed in the warm sunshine” (pictured). In Napier, “we had three huff’n’puff daytime excursions to Hastings, and went to Otane for a pie, pea and pud fundraising meal in the hall on Saturday. There was also a local market for us, lots of local goodies and bargains”. On Sunday, the train became a Family Foodie Special trip to Waipukurau, serving a three-course lunch with boutique wine and beer on the train on the way back. “At Waipukurau people were really dressed up, and it was fabulous around Napier over the weekend – everyone was dressed to the nines.” Steam Incorporated has two working steam locomotives – the Ab608 Passchendaele built in 1915 (and restored over 20 years for $500,000) and the Ja1271, both built by NZ Railways. It also has two working diesel locomotives and many carriages between 60 and 100 years old. The older carriages are panelled in wood with balconies at the back. Volunteers are “typical New Zealanders, mostly Pākehā”, says Jenny. “The majority, men and women, used to work for NZ Railways, and some of the women are partners or children of former railway workers.” As crew, Jenny wears a red t-shirt, black pants and steel-cap trainers, and a fluoro vest when she’s on the track. “The loco crew look very smart – they have black shirts and silver ties.” Most of the volunteer train crew and buffet car volunteers are women, and both the souvenir shop staff. Jenny says there are no women among the loco crew, but the society would train any who were interested. But although Jenny has been in the working cab in charge of the whistle, she doesn’t hanker to drive a loco. Coasters’ potluck The highly successful Kapiti Coast monthly lesbian potluck dinners has given the area a reputation as a friendly lesbian community that is easy to settle into. Started by Leonie Grimmet in 2000, they are held on the first Saturday of each month, from 6.30pm and attract between 16 on wet evenings to more than 70 women at some southern coast potlucks. “It depends on who the hosts know; sometimes people from Wellington will stay with them for that weekend,” says Leonie. A huge communal bag of plastic plates, cutlery wine glasses is passed from host to host to help out. “We hold them from Otaki to Paekakariki,” says Leonie, “and people coming into the area have an instant network of people they can relate to. A lot of people are moving up from Wellington for the lifestyle and because we’re known for being such a friendly community.” The potlucks led to Leonie’s Kapiti Coast email list, which distributes potluck venues, requests and offers of accommodation and news of lesbian events to more than 500 women. Women are asked to bring mains or desserts and their own drinks. “Somehow the ratio always works out between desserts and mains, and it’s yummy food,” says Leonie. Recent resident Jenny Holdt, of Te Horo Beach, says: “The potluck’s a good place to meet other women – everyone was very friendly when we first went. We got around 30 to our first one, and there’s plenty of food for veggoes, which is nice.” “For someone moving into the area it’s great,” she says. “One friend was moving to Otaki and met five women from Otaki Beach at a potluck before she moved in. It made her feel a lot better about coming from Auckland and not knowing anyone here.” The youngest at potlucks are in their 20s and the oldest in their late eighties; mostly Pākehā and Māori, with lot of couples and singles, says Leonie. Some hosts hold particular potlucks; the January one is held north of Manukau, just south of Levin, and attracts a group of Palmerston North lesbians, says Leonie. “In summer women with smaller homes take a punt on the weather and hope people can mingle outside.” She tries to get women with bigger houses for the winter dinners. Paekakariki resident Prue Hyman says that she and partner Pat Rosier, who died in June “always hosted one a year, usually in June. The Lilac Lesbian Library brings a load of books to each potluck, which lots of women who don’t go to Wellington much have found very useful. It’s not a late night and everyone helps with the dishes.” Jenny Holdt thinks the lower breath alcohol limit for drivers “has curtailed attendance a bit; if it’s in Paekakariki, that’s why we don’t go.” Email Leonie on leonie.grimmett [at] xtra.co.nz to go on the Kapiti Coast email list. UK Poet Laureate Carol Ann Duffy is one of the featured authors in this year’s festival. Obviously well-known as a poet (and the UK’s first woman, first lesbian and first Scottish Poet Laureate), two of her performances will be of her work The World’s Wife. A themed collection of poems, it takes characters, stories, histories and myths which focus on men, and tells stories from women’s points of view: sometimes women commenting on the male/male story. Mrs Darwin, for example, and Mrs Icarus each take only a few lines to sum up their husbands. Other works change history more substantially, so Queen Herod and the Kray Sisters tell their own story. Duffy joins actors Fiona Samuel and Rachel House in performances on Friday May 15 and Saturday May 16 (see Dyke Diary for details). Duffy will also be “in conversation” for an hour, with John Campbell. Auckland Libraries have a wide range of Duffy’s published work, as well as anthologies in which she is included. For other examples of her work, visit Scottish Poetry Library and Poetry Archive. The latter site includes Duffy reading from her poems. Otaki-based feminist playwright, memoirist, poet, blogger and novelist Renée has two sessions: a workshop, “Your Life, Your Story”, Saturday May 16 ($45) and an hour in conversation with Stephanie Johnson, Sunday May 17, 3-4pm, see Dyke Diary). Women in World War One The Women’s Studies Association has organised two one-day events focussed on women’s activities and contributions in World War One. The Wellington event, in late March, attracted around 40 women with interests in history, labour history and peace and justice. The day included presentations on personal/individual stories as well as groups of women, discussion and dramatic performance. The Auckland event (Sunday April 12, see Dyke Diary) will follow a similar format. Welllington participants found the event engaging and informative, with great networking opportunities. While few women subjects can be identified as unquestionably lesbian, the focus on strong, single, independent women, and the opportunities they found and took, will be of interest to lesbians. The Women’s Studies Association is a feminist organisation formed to promote radical social change through the medium of women’s studies. It has a long, strong and visible herstory of lesbian involvement. Te ao pāpāho, Media Anthology of Australian lesbian writing A first lesbian novel PulseArt review Reaching for the Moon review Wellington Lesbian Radio podcasts Chrissy Irvine’s website of women at work photos Lesbians write on: A celebration of contemporary Australian lesbian writing What a lovely book! The loveliness starts with the title – that’s attractive in itself. What better, we might ask ourselves, to do with contemporary lesbians (Australian or others) than to celebrate them? Then there’s the look of the book. I am of the ‘judging a book by its cover’ school, and this has a labrys and purple flowers. It’s a good size and comfortable to hold. Inside, the print is an easy (large-ish) size to read. The Long Breast Press collective, as they explain in the introduction and on the back cover, solicited and elicited 40 works from 24 lesbians. While contributions vary, they include fiction and non-fiction, and works that are not clearly either. It has the strong, credible and realistic voice of many lesbians you will know. Some of the stories are historical, addressing what has got me to here from there, for example. Some are funny, some are sad – some desperately so. Just like aspects of any of our lives, I’d say. There is lesbian love expressed through porridge. There’s a brief cricket poem. There is early love and coming out. There is current love/s and challenges of heterosexism and ageing. What else might you want to know? One of the collective, Jean Taylor, is the founder of Performing Older Women’s (POW) Circus, which developed out of the Women’s Circus. Mostly lesbian, POW’s objectives include challenging ageism and ageist assumptions and advancing the status of women by embracing feminist perspectives and fostering lesbian visibility. You can hear Ardy Tibby (another Long Breast Press collective member) and Jean talk about feminism and their roles in the feminist movement in Australia in a 2010 Joy Radio podcast (duration: 40:17, 18.4MB). Publisher details on this and other Long Breast titles are at Long Breast Press. Publishing this book was a project to maintain the ‘uniquely lesbian expression’ of identity, and it has succeeded magnificently. Heather Sylvawood’s first novel More than I could bear – A lesbian affair is set in the early 1970s in Canterbury and was released on Amazon Kindle at the end of March. The story: Laura Holland is barely coping with her life bringing up two teenagers and her almost seven-year-old autistic daughter, Estella. Living on a small farm raising chooks, sheep and the family’s vegetables, Laura’s role is limited to homemaking by her daughter’s disability. Her husband Richard, however, is a busy school principal whose involvement in the farm is spasmodic. Life catapults from one crisis to another with each family member coping with or seeking solace from the pressures in different ways. Laura’s account of their struggles to maintain a ‘normal’ life is at times poignant and funny. When the Hollands meet the Langleys, a family with a very different way of coping with their disabled daughter, life takes a dramatic turn. At first Laura and Anna find support and new possibilities in their growing love for each other. But all is not well in the Langley household, and as Laura is drawn in, further and further, the stage is set for a dramatic showdown. The novel shows how social beliefs about caring for children with an intellectual disability impact much more strongly on women, and how the whole family is affected by the disability of the one. Contains sexual scenes. PulseArt: A Space for a Story At Garnet Station, February 17–28, 2015 Justina Groeber, Cath Head, Beth Hudson, Dorina Jotti, Fran Marno, Sue Marshall Garnet Station, a friendly laid-back space, is in itself a story. But it offers two sprucely white and airy adjoining rooms for PulseArt’s enthusiastic opening crowd. Blessedly, if heat or the art got too much we could step outside to laden peach trees, cherry tomatoes, bromeliads and mint, and chat in or contemplate a garden whose artful naturalness nicely complements the delicacy of the indoor art. Where do our stories start? Coming up to a third year of the Gay Marriage Act it’s appropriate to begin with a light-hearted look at marriage. Fran’s Wally Dog Diaspora: conversations from the mantelpiece, are paintings of three pairs of decorative pottery canines. (Google says a lot about Wally dogs, or in Scots dugs.) Titled: Uppity Wives, Besotted Wives and Scary Wives (the last prompting thoughts of Alice B. Toklas, reputedly scary, marshalling the wives while Gertrude interrogates the artists) the images illustrate Fran’s stunning painterly skills and complex perceptiveness. These florid pampered pooches surely embody – or emit – the protections and pretensions of their owners, but does the one with the broken companion piece (and relationship?) wear the most rueful – screwed-up – expression? Hard to stop looking, guessing, laughing. But the Little Phyd image is so fresh she might leap out of her frame. Beth Hudson’s stories are like visits to a mysterious though archetypal past beginning with a powerful dream-derived cycling hare chased by sinister greyhounds. The background includes a deserted mansion; a ghostly chorus of gabbling frighteners speeds across the sky; an uneasy, unsettling scene. The dream/past themes continue in a surreal Escher-referenced Unfathomable Staircase and open deceiving doors; go on to a deserted park and a discarded toy; next, to a nostalgic railway station, its engine rusting into oblivion. Lastly, in a small white-on-black layered composition, a pair of ghostly but sturdy walking shoes each wears a small, ghostly, woman pushing a supermarket trolley. The title is Sole Sisters, and the artist’s edgy emotional impact is here subverted by a cheerfulness and implied intimacy between the women. In the small room Cath Head, in a new direction, shows small collages along with her stone and marble sculptings. Meticulous crafting and humour are highlights of both. I liked the I AM/AM I front/back – or back/front – ambivalence of her Oamaru stone ‘stopper’ – a memorial, a barrier? a boundary milestone, a foot-rest? A confronting lettered mirror becomes a balancing act between stating and que(e)rying its reflected definition as it proclaims in beautiful gold: It’s not you it’s me (who’s you, who’s me?). And the golden word on a piece of broken marble must be a modern artist’s last word on marble busts – or creation in general: Fragment. Sue Marshall’s pair of delicately shaded black and white drawings of “the child” hover uneasily between serious and playful: first the subject cries her desire for a relationship, next she cries because it’s gone. The wry humour hints at Sappho’s appeal to Aphrodite – and historic Coles Funny Picture Book children whose edge of grotesquery elicits pity and pained withdrawal to the verge of repulsion; such open emotional pathos in a culture where expressed emotion is frowned on! (unless of course it’s obligatory in reality tv shows or disguised as sportsground hubris!) But as sub-titles Chapter 1 and Chapter 2 indicate, here is an ever-recurring story… Justina Groeber places six student portraits beside extracts of their stories. Many images are smudged or smeared – sometimes quite heavily d/effaced – so that they cannot be definitive. Nor can the students be defined only by teacher or student: our stories, these portraits seem to say, are a mix of our own and others’ scripts, likeness and unlikeness always in transition. Justina marries text and visual representation, ironically pointing to and not quite relinquishing her (artist’s) presence by a title querying the concept of choice: To tell or not to tell. All the portraits have the same title, each is a numbered segment of the whole, each is seen with a lively, humane eye. Lastly, to sum up, is Dorina Jotti’s beautifully photographed and presented confrontation of image and didactic authority in The end of meta-narratives. Two digital photographs hang side by side; in the first image, a spun-open book balanced on its side has unfolded into a sort of carousel or a circular concertina file. The second image, an open double-page, is crumpled and unwritten-on. Up close, the splayed concertina file’s text is just decipherable as biblical; the yet-to-be-written-on folio pages, ready to receive a story – whose story? – look already aged. Does this begin or end the show? It’s a fitting PulseArt climax to a Pride show: these stories – our stories – in a perhaps “small and perfectly formed” way – challenge dominant culture stories. Heather McPherson, 21 February Reaching for the Moon For lesbians who heard of – but were unable to see – the film about the 16-year relationship between Pulitzer-prize winning American poet Elisabeth Bishop and Brazilian architect Lota de Macedo Soares, the DVD of the 2013 film has arrived in library systems. Rental is $2 for one week. Called Reaching for the Moon, the superbly-made film unhesitatingly charts the crests and pitfalls of the love between these two creative, successful women, begun while Lota was still with another woman. Mirando Otto thoroughly convinces as the shy but determined American poet: when they first meet, she refuses to echo Soares’ Portuguese word for ‘thankyou’ – a tiny but telling scene which shows Bishop’s strength. I found myself fancying Glória Pires, who plays the dynamic, feisty Lota. Her talent and confidence ripples through the scenes, making the final ones even more gripping. There’s not much sex but the film isn’t weaker for that. What there is in abundance is emotion – real, recognisable-from-our-own-relationships emotion. Pull out your library card and give yourself a $2 treat sometime soon, thanks to our library system. Sandi Hall Lesbian community radio Wellington Lesbian Community Radio Sundays 10-11am. Interviews, local and worldwide political news and great lesbian music from a wide range of presenters.783AM in the Wellington region or listen live or later on http://accessradio.org.nz. You can also download five weeks of podcasts from Lesbian Community. Chrissy Irvine, a young photographer at the University of Canterbury, has created a website of photographs and interviews about women and work, many with women who are doing non-traditional jobs. See www.herstory.org.nz/ and see the Press article at www.stuff.co.nz/the-press/10473946/Stories-to-tell-young-women Rātaka takatāpui/Dyke Diary for April/ Paenga-whāwhā Auckland/Tamaki Makaurau Sunday 12 Reclaiming Our Herstory: New Zealand Women and World War One Women’s Studies Association event: 9.30am – 4.00pm, Ferndale House, 830 New North Rd, Mt Albert; speakers and cultural performance; $10 includes morning & afternoon tea; lunch catered by the Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom and a koha would be appreciated. See WSA website for more information. Monday 13 Kotare Trust presents ‘Progress and possibilities: a left wing think tank for Aotearoa’ with speaker Sue Bradford at Grey Lynn Community centre at 6pm. Wednesday 15 Living Wage Movement presents the movie ‘Woman in Gold’ at Capitol Cinema, 610 Dominion Rd at 5.30pm. Drinks will be on sale before the start of the movie. Tickets $19.25 (2015 living wage rate). Purchase your tickets directly by paying the amount into Living Wage Movement Aotearoa NZ account: Kiwi Bank , account number 38 – 0838964-00 with reference ‘LW Auckland’ Thursday 16 Stories & Songs of NZ Women in WW1. Presented by Cathie Harrop and Ilona Rodgers at Auckland War Memorial museum at 2pm. Tickets $25. Also on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 at 2pm. Sunday 19 Coffee & Stroll 10am, coffee at Sitting Duck cafe, 141-151 Westhaven Dr; 10.30am, stroll along the Westhaven boardwalk to Pier Z (another cafe is available here), & back again. Dog friendly. Thursday 23 East Asian Women’s Forum 10am – 12 midday at Panmure Community Hall. Four women’s perspectives on What it is it like to live in Auckland as a migrant woman?, followed by questions and discussion. Saturday 25 Anzac Day commemoration, Charlotte Museum 2pm, opening of the vulva poppy exhibition: floor talk from the director, followed by an afternoon tea. 8A Bentink St, New Lynn. Wednesday 29 Meeting co-hosted by Living Wage Aotearoa, and Service and Food Workers Union 10am- 12 noon, Auckland Women’s Centre 4 Warnock St, Grey Lynn Thursday 30 WISE Women 2015, one-day conference promoting women’s leadership in technical industries. Orakei Bay, Auckland, $1,144 before March 5, $1,604 after. See www.conferenz.co.nz/wise. Waikato/Central North Island Saturday 18 Hamilton LSG Mini Golf at Lilliputt Mini Golf, first floor of Centre Place (access through Lido Cinema entrance at Centre Place). Drinks from 5.30pm at Mozaik Bar, Bryce Street followed by golf at 7pm. Golf Cost per person $14 (pay at the venue). Those intending to be part of the golf at 7pm need to RSVP to Karen by Tuesday 14 either by email karen.wilson@xtra.co.nz or by text 0274 967 698. Saturday/Sunday 25–26 Diva Tramping Group Tongariro Crossing, 8-hour day walk across the active Mt Tongariro. Those wanting an easy option can walk part of the track and head back. Stay at Forest and Bird lodge on Ruapehu. Go up Friday night and tramp either Saturday or Sunday. Please book directly at Forest and Bird Lodge. It is $55/night for non-members and $35/night for members. Quote “Annette” when booking. Contact Annette Litherland, email livewell98@gmail.com Wellington/Te Whanganui-a-Tara Friday 10 Same-sex Dancesport competition practice for local and out-of-town dancers. Top floor, Whitireia Performance Centre, 25 Vivian St, 6-8pm. Saturday 11 Annual Same-Sex Dancesport Competition Whitireia Performance Centre; spectators $10 adult/$5 child/student with ID. Doors open 1.15pm for competitors; grading events from 2.15pm; competition from 3pm. See the events on the DANSS website or contact dansscomp@xtra.co.nz Sunday 12 Same-sex dancesport brunch Karaka Café, Wharewaka on the waterfront, 11am. Details will be confirmed at the competition. Sunday 12 Wellington Lesbian Overlanders and Café Club meeting at Mana Railway Station ~10am, walk along Camborne Way to Plimmerton, suitable for all. Bring lunch, water and snacks. Phone Lainey 027 303 9006. South Island/Te Wai Pounamu Monday 6 Charlotte Museum exhibition, Onekaka Hall between Takaka and Collingwood, 3-8pm, see charlottemuseum.lesbian.net.nz. Saturday 11 Charlotte Museum exhibition, Nelson Women’s Centre, 44 Trafalger Street, 3-7 pm, entry: koha. “Visits to to the Charlotte Museum always enhance our collective stories and women tell us how the museum experience makes them feel good as lesbians.” Since many lesbians cannot travel to Auckland two volunteers decided to take some of the museum around the South Island. They will have a display, two films on coming out and music and a performance with some songs. See charlottemuseum.lesbian.net.nz. Sunday 12 dinner, Nelson 6.30pm, Green Bamboo Vietnamese Restaurant, 126 Hardy St. This is a new restaurant and very popular; we have booked a table and numbers are limited. Details from tlconnection.link@gmail.com. Sunday 19 brunch/lunch, Nelson from 11am, The Suter Cafe, now at 28 Halifax St (opposite Nelson Public Library). Great coffee and food! Something for everyone. Details from tlconnection.link@gmail.com. Thursday 23 Pene Kingsford at Boo Radley’s, Victoria St, Christchurch, 8pm. Sunday 26 brunch/lunch, Motueka from 11am, T.O.A.D Hall Store and Cafe, 502 High St. Details from tlconnection.link@gmail.com. News, pix and profiles about lesbians and queer women in Aotearoa/New Zealand Subscribe to our e-mail Click through to receive our monthly email updates. LNA on Facebook	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4148
__label__cc	0.635971	0.364029	Culture Collide + The Raveonettes shows Liane \| October 24, 2013 \| Concert Reviews, Festival Reports, Friends, Music, Photography, Video \| No Comments It’s only October 22nd, and sadly most of my concerts have come and gone. I have other reasons to be sad, but I knew they were coming and I’ve accepted the inevitable. I’ve seen several of my favorite bands this month and a few more thanks to Culture Collide Festival, though I did really only attend a few performances. There probably were more I wanted to see, but schedule conflicts and distance always make going to shows harder for me. Orange County isn’t that far from LA, but most music fans I know are not here. Anyways, enough complaining about my friends. I’m still happy I saw Secret Shine, Gliss, and The Raveonettes at Culture Collide since getting to the festival the past few years hasn’t been easy. I purchased Secret Shine’s latest “The Beginning and The End,” which came with “Elemental EP” (3 more great songs). I got the back of the CD cover signed by the whole band after the show. The venue was called Lot 1 Cafe and the band played in a room off to the side of the cafe part. The location was a bit removed from the rest of the festival. Secret Shine are a British shoegaze band, who formed in the early 90’s – so it’s one of those cases that I’m glad they’re still around and even playing shows in the US. Even My Bloody Valentine took their time after Loveless, but it’s hard enough being in a band when your there are no expectations on how good your last album was. I saw a lot of people recording video the set, which made me feel less sad about being in the back where I couldn’t see much. I got about 30 seconds of video of “Honey Sweet,” which is fine to get an idea of their sound. I saw a few other bands the first day, but didn’t know the names, aside from Ice Age who I think I confused with No Age. The other band I saw most of their set had a Greek name, which I forgot even though they spelled it. The singer was kind of funny, making jokes and being overly observant at times. I missed the 2nd day of Culture Collide so I could see The Raveonettes at the Observatory, which also included the sound check for people who bought the VIP passes. They actually played a few songs all the way through, which was nice. I posted all my videos on Facebook, since my YouTube account still doesn’t seem to let me use it separately from Google+. There were 2 opening bands for the Raveonettes show, one of which (Summer Twins) had started by the time I’d gotten some food (turns out the Observatory serves food!). Anyways, Summer Twins had kind of a poppy surfy sound with a girl group sound (a good fit with the Raveonettes), and they actually are twins. How appropriate. The other opener Mystic Braves were very 60’s sounding and looking, right down to their outfits and beards. I thought I was in the 60’s during their set, which does seem to be a very popular thing for psych rock bands these days. They sounded good, though I’m not sure this was the right show for them to open. During the Raveonettes set, I had a great spot for photos and videos and took plenty of both. I really wish Facebook were better for videos as I have quite a lot I’ve posted on there and they just seem kind of unorganized and mixed with photos. I will just upload them to my new YouTube channel, since I am not happy with Facebook’s video embedding. I always enjoy seeing The Raveonettes and seeing them twice over two days was great. It’s funny, the more I see a band the less I really have to say about their shows. I love their harmonies and their voices individually, they speak a lot of Danish during soundchecks and I find it very interesting how they limit that during the shows. Though they are from Denmark, the Raveonettes’ sound is very rock and surf and clearly more influenced heavily by American artists. Sune Rose Wagner’s Sonic Youth shirt is evidence of that. Sharin Foo is always so glamorous on stage and boy, does she play a mean bass. They played a good selection of songs from all their albums, though mostly from the latest Observator (how perfect for The Observatory) and closing with some tracks from their debut EP Whip It On (which is a bit darker and heavier than later albums). I ended up recording “Gone Forever” during the show and soundcheck, as well as “She Owns The Streets,” “Heart of Stone,” “Young and Cold,” “Attack of The Ghost Riders,” “My Tornado,” and “Cops On Our Tail.” We got to the Echoplex fairly late on the last night of Culture Collide, a heavy rock sounding female fronted band called the Heliotropes were in the middle of their set. I was just there for Gliss and The Raveonettes. Near the start of their set, Gliss gave a shout out to Alexander Laurence, who was helping them with their gear before the show. I’m not sure how many people really were as amused by it as I was, but it’s one of those things that amuses me. Gliss were pretty awesome too, just the main 2 band members Martin Klingman drumming and singing and Victoria Cecilia singing and playing synths. Victoria seemed pretty confident on stage, she reminded me of Madonna in the 80’s (though it was probably the synths that made me think that.) Sadly my memory card was either missing or improperly placed in my camera, so I just used my iPhone for crappy Instagrams. Fortunately, there were plenty of photographers and videographers present. Here’s some excellent front row footage of one of the more upbeat songs during their set: I still have Travis @ the Wiltern and BRMC @ The Glass House to discuss, which I will save for on another day – possibly after uploading everything to YouTube. Getting through this post has actually taken me a lot longer than usual. Though I have been trying to get other things done despite multiple distractions, which is my excuse for not writing at times. Keep checking back and eventually all my Raveonettes videos will be here: Copyright 2013 Liane Chan Tags:bands, concerts, culture collide, Denmark, Echoplex, gliss, live music, Lot 1 Cafe, Mystic Braves, Secret Shine, shoegaze, Summer Twins, surf rock, The Observatory, the raveonettes Red Thread of Fate Is this still a music blog? Best shopping day ever! BRMC’s February/March North American Tour	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4151
__label__wiki	0.758127	0.758127	London pro-EU rally keeps Brexit debate alive amid tough talks UK Prime Minister Theresa May has contended with a leak of draft new immigration rules, while the opposition Labour Party prepared to challenge a new legal regime and talks with Brussels remained stalemated. (Bloomberg) -- Demonstrators opposed to Britain’s departure from the European Union took to London’s streets by the thousands on Saturday, seeking to add pressure on a government under attack over its Brexit plan. Waving star-studded blue European flags and wearing stickers with slogans such as "Bollocks to Brexit," they marched through the center of the U.K. capital to advocate for a rejection of the country’s planned break with the bloc, videos posted by protesters on Twitter showed. Vince Cable, the leader of the anti-Brexit Liberal Democrats, rallied a crowd of party activists at the event. "We’ve got to absolutely stop the extreme Brexit which this incompetent, disunited government is trying to force upon us," Cable said, according to an emailed copy of his remarks. "There is a lot of uncertainty, and this can be stopped if we choose to stop the process of Brexit." The protest highlights challenges facing Prime Minister Theresa May’s Brexit strategy at home and abroad. May has contended with a leak of draft new immigration rules, while the opposition Labour Party prepared to challenge a new legal regime and talks with Brussels remained stalemated. About 150,000 people were expected to attend by organisers, according to a report by the Docklands & East London Advertiser newspaper. The demonstration on Saturday is part of a so-called Autumn of Discontent planned by pro-EU groups. Additional protests are scheduled for the Labour Party conference this month in Brighton and next month’s Conservative Party conference in Manchester. Those who want to stay in the EU sense an opportunity after May called an election in June, only for voters to strip her Tories of their parliamentary majority. Contentious negotiations with the EU and signs the economy is slowing are also helping foment support for remaining. The government and Labour Party are still committed to pulling the UK out of the bloc in March 2019. Polling data also suggest another referendum might not reverse the decision. A Opinium survey last month for the Observer newspaper signalled a second referendum would result in a vote to stay, but only narrowly with 47 percent support. The same survey showed almost half against holding another ballot and other polls report many who chose to stay last year now want to get on with the withdrawal. Economists at Morgan Stanley this week said they saw only a 10 percent chance of Brexit being derailed. Where marches may have some influence is by pushing the government to negotiate a lengthy transition from the bloc. Even pro-Brexit lawmakers have dialled back criticism of such an interim period although they maintain it should be short. In London, lawmakers are preparing to vote next week on a landmark act designed to create a new legal system to come into force when the U.K. leaves the EU, dubbed the Withdrawal Bill.	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4155
__label__wiki	0.573888	0.573888	Spoleto 2008 » Recent reviews Burial at Thebes Burial ponders if it isn’t all that we are by Jonathan Sanchez Between my finger and my thumb/The squat pen rests./ I’ll dig with it. —Seamus Heaney, “Digging” Like this famous poem about his father — “By God, the old man could handle a spade” — the digging in Seamus Heaney’s Burial at Thebes is both literal and figurative. First Antigone (Catherine Hamilton) digs up enough Theban dust to bury her brother despite a ban. Then King Creon (Paul Bentall) digs himself a hole in a way that has been repeated by bungling politicians so many times over the centuries it too has become ceremonious. Heaney, the fourth Irishman to win the Nobel Prize for literature, was commissioned to translate Sophocles’ Antigone for the 2004 centenary of Dublin’s Abbey Theatre. This play about soil, both in the everyday sense of the dirt you can grab and the soil owned by the state, is a natural fit for him. He’s a writer known for his elegantly staccato language about the power of everyday things, and for being from Ireland. Creon has taken over Thebes after a civil war in which his nephews were both killed fighting on opposite sides. Eteocles is buried a hero, Polyneices is left for the dogs, an apparently wise Machiavellian move at unification by the new king. But Antigone, devoted to the gods’ laws, defies the laws of the state and is condemned to death. And since she’s engaged to Creon’s son, (also her cousin, which when you consider she’s Oedipus’ daughter, really isn’t so gross) things get ugly fast. Heaney said he renamed the play so as to remind us all of our common mortality. It serves other purposes too, though. (For one, it might trick people into going who don’t want to see a staging of that Penguin paperback they had to read in the 10th grade.) It also takes the focus off of Antigone, because Creon is the star of this play. Bentall is fantastic as a ruler just effective enough to be ineffective, at once commanding and continually trying to convince himself that staying the course is the right thing to do. And so yes, with a boneheaded leader claiming that “if you’re not for us you’re against us” and that Polyneices “terrorized us,” this is the play which anti-war Hamlets would like to present for President Bush and gauge his reaction. And it would be fun to draw modern parallels left and right, but the Nottingham Playhouse production under the direction of Lucy Pitman-Wallace has more of a personal intention. Instead of asking big questions to the world, it asks of you: How far would you go to stand by your family, your God, your country? This was the company’s first outdoor production of Burial, and the effect is powerful, unifying. Not only is there the pediment and Ionic columns of Randolph Hall resonating as a classical backdrop, but without a curtain the audience is more intimately involved in the reality of the drama. In this play, with stones and dust and fire, if it rains on us it rains on them. The paradox of religion is that faith is real. The real things, the stones and dust, are both ordinary and divine. The dust Antigone spreads on her brother is not symbolic — she’s doing it so he can literally proceed to the afterlife. And the irony is that Creon eventually gets religion, too late, when he also literally fears the gods. The acting and spare staging are all flawless. The energetic small company takes turns taking off their chorus robes and taking on individual roles. Catherine Hamilton is radiant as Antigone, Maxwell Hutcheon wonderfully ambivalent as the chorus leader. Especially connective is Matthew Rixon as a regular-Joe guard. The chorus’s songs, accompanying themselves on lute and drum and violin, are lovely, but compared to Heaney’s clear and plain dialogue, the lyrics become a bit of a blur. Subtitles would be clunky. Perhaps hymnals on the seats? Burial at Thebes • Spoleto Festival USA • May 30, June 1, 2, at 8:30 p.m. • $30-$45 • College of Charleston Cistern, 66 George St. • (843) 579-3100 College of Charleston Cistern Yard 66 George St. (Downtown)	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4158
__label__wiki	0.730786	0.730786	Regional hubs the answer to affordable housing Royal Wedding will make millions Australia Post CEO to quit 5 tips to get a pay rise 20 jobs with the biggest salary increases by Alexis Carey AUSSIE advertising managers and directors have enjoyed serious salary increases recently - but men are receiving $35,000 more than their female counterparts on average for doing the same job. That's according to an analysis of the most recent Australian Taxation Office (ATO) tax data by comparison site finder.com.au, which revealed the 20 jobs which have experienced the biggest jump in wages between 2015 and 2016. Interestingly, the data showed that male advertising managers and directors were paid $115,386 in 2016 - a pay increase of 10.3 per cent on the previous year - but far higher than their female colleagues, who just received $80,825 - representing an 8.8 per cent rise. The findings were broken down into the salaries with the biggest wage hike for both male and female workers - but it also found the average wage boost for women within the top professions was 7.7 per cent, far lower than the average male increase of 15.6 per cent. For the blokes, the roles that had seen the biggest wage increase of 27.4 per cent wage include electoral officer, forms designer, knowledge manager, lobbyist, museum registrar and procurement specialist. The pay rise brought those average salaries to $53,645 in 2016, compared with just $42,115 just one year earlier. Finder.com.au has revealed a list of jobs with the highest percentage increase in salary for 2016. Picture: Supplied Meanwhile, female employees who work as advertising managers and directors enjoyed the biggest salary jumps, while male defence force workers, whose salaries rose by 22.1 per cent, and female market analysts, whose wages got an 8.6 per cent boost, took out second place on the list. Overall, the best-paying job on the list was a male financial investment manager, with an average salary of $349,252 in 2016, up 12.0 per cent or $39,825 from 2015. Finder.com.au's income protection expert Bessie Hassan said it was tough to say why these jobs had experienced such dramatic increases. "These jobs may have seen a high increase in salary due to demand, or simply just an industry trend," Ms Hassan said. "Skilled workers are highly sought-after which may be another reason why designers, anaesthetists, market analysts, and defence force workers have seen such a large salary increase." She urged well-paid workers to consider income protection. "If you're working in a high-earning profession or industry this makes it even more important to protect your income," she said. "White collar workers may not face much risk of being injured at work, but they're still at risk of illness." The findings follow research released last week which revealed advertised salaries had hit record highs in 2018 - but that many Aussie workers were still "grossly underpaid". According to new research from job site Adzuna, average advertised salaries have increased eight per cent year-on-year to reach a high of $94,180. Wage increases have occurred across most industries, with many achieving double-digit growth. The only sectors to have seen a decline in wages are hospitality, which is down 7 per cent, and consultancy, which has decreased by 3 per cent, while salaries within the accounting and finance industries have remained flat. How your salary compares to your colleagues Should you be in line for a pay rise? The Aussie baristas earning more than you Here’s how to always have a job Jobs that suffered biggest salary drops Labor to expose gender pay gap How your pay compares to other Aussies business careers editors picks money salary	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4159
__label__wiki	0.906688	0.906688	Cypress Wode at The Greatest Shave Chris Lines Kind-hearted students step up to help survivors by Chris Lines 14th May 2019 10:56 AM WHEN the clippers ran over Lachlan Buckmaster's head in front of his entire school community, there was one man he had in his mind and heart. The Warwick High student said he was inspired to do the World's Greatest Shave in honour of a former teacher who lost his battle with cancer in 2016. "I used to attend Warwick West where the vice-principal Mr Higgins died from cancer,” he said. "So I decided to sign up this year, because I think it is a good cause and a way to show support to the community.” Lachlan was one of five students and two teachers who braved the shave for the cause at a school assembly last week. Fellow shaver, teacher Ian Rowling, said he was proud to see the school embrace the event. "My family, like many others, has been impacted on by cancer,” he said. "I think the shave is a fantastic cause and I'm so proud our school supports it every year.” Heavily-bearded teacher Justin Alley was met with roars of excitement from the students as he and his long hair approached the chair. Some chose to keep the locks on their head and took on perhaps an even more brave challenge - a leg wax by fellow students. This year's event has been the most successful the school has ever held, raising more than $3010 for the Leukaemia Foundation. cypress wode evan emms ian rowling jayeden o'brien justin alley lachlan buckmaster warwick state high school worlds greatest shave wyatt styles	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4160
__label__wiki	0.932642	0.932642	This image released by 20th Century Fox shows Dave Bautista, left, and Kumail Nanjiani in a scene from "Stuber." Violent and uneven 'Stuber' offers a bumpy ride By Rob Thomas Rob Thomas \| The Capital Times The only contemporary thing about “Stuber” is the ubiquitous — excuse me, Uber-iquitous — product placement for a certain rideshare company that pervades the R-rated action comedy. I would try to avoid giving that rideshare company free advertising in this review, except that it’s so egregious that I can’t even say the name of the movie without also saying the name of the company. Otherwise, “St----" has its heart in the 1980s, specifically the buddy-cop movies of the Reagan years, in which a mismatched duo bicker, shoot people and bicker some more for two hours. But while director Michael Dowse wants to be making a modern-day “Lethal Weapon,” it’s more like “Another Stakeout” — violent, occasionally amusing, instantly forgettable. Kumail Nanjiani plays Stu, who works a terrible job at a big-box sporting goods store during the day, and a terrible job driving entitled jerks around Los Angeles at night. One night, Stu picks up Vic (Dave Bautista), an off-duty police detective who has a lead on a drug kingpin (Iko Uwais) who killed his partner six months earlier. Only — get this — Vic has just had Lasik eye surgery, and can’t drive himself, so he conscripts Stu to drive for him as he tracks down the killer. Like a clearance-rack “Collateral,” the film follows Stu and Vic around Los Angeles, going from one shootout to the next, bickering all the way. The violence is surprisingly graphic for a comedy, and the movie gives Vic license to beat up and torture suspects to get the information he wants. The alpha-male detective clashes with the beta-male Stu, who drives an electric car and does things like asking criminals to share their feelings. Nanjiani and Bautista are appealing actors who have had a good run of supporting performances up until now, and one can’t fault them for jumping at the chance to be lead actors here. But the by-the-numbers screenplay by Tripper Clancy is way beneath them. There are funny lines here and there, but they exist in a vacuum, utterly disconnected from the characters or the story. You can almost hear the clicking of the screenwriter’s laptop as they talk. I will say that one scene, in which Stu exchanges relationship advice with a male stripper (Steve Howey), is very funny and suggests what the movie could have been. Women characters are relegated to the margins, existing just to call the male characters periodically to ask when they’re coming home. That includes Natalie Morales as Vic’s daughter and Peggy Gilpin as Stu’s best friend and business partner, who he’s secretly been in love with for over a decade. (This long-term unrequited love subplot is also a major part of “Yesterday,” and it needs to be retired from movies. It’s not sweet, it’s creepy.) Even the action scenes are shot confusingly, which is a real shame, since Uwais (“The Raid”) is one of the world’s great action stars. Here’s a tip: if you’re going to make an action-comedy, make sure at least one-half of the hybrid is running smoothly. Dave Bautista, Kumail Nanjiani R for strong violence, language, nudity Now playing at Marcus Point, Marcus Palace, New Vision Fitchburg 18 and FLIX Brewhouse Madison A Scottish singer dreams of Nashville in moving and fiery 'Wild Rose' Like a good country song, “Wild Rose” follows a traditional, time-honored structure while still saying something fresh and true. 'Yesterday' is a Beatles fantasy that's more drab than fab 'Pavarotti' documentary celebrates the king of the High Cs 'Toy Story 4' serves up humor and wonder with a side of existential angst Rob Thomas is the features editor and social media editor for the Capital Times, as well as its film critic. He joined the Cap Times in 1999 and has written about movies, music, food and books. Follow Rob Thomas \| The Capital Times Editorial: Paul Ryan should be so very ashamed of himself Plain Talk: Democrats' 'far left' ideas aren't so radical after all	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4161
__label__wiki	0.929572	0.929572	BC-KY–Kentucky News Digest 1:45 pm, KY Here’s a look at how AP’s general news coverage is shaping up in Kentucky. Questions about coverage plans are welcome and should be directed to the AP-Louisville bureau at (502) 583-7718 or aplouisville(at)ap.org. Beth Campbell ... Source: lex18.com BC-KY–Kentucky News Digest, KY Here’s a look at how AP’s general news coverage is shaping up in Kentucky. Questions about coverage plans are welcome and should be direc... BC-KY–Kentucky News Digest 7:20 pm, KY Here’s a look at how AP’s general news coverage is shaping up in Kentucky. Questions about coverage plans are welcome and should be direc... BC-KY–Kentucky News Digest 130 pm, KY Here’s a look at how AP’s general news coverage is shaping up in Kentucky. Questions about coverage plans are welcome and should be direc... BC-KY–Kentucky News Digest 6 pm, KY Here’s a look at how AP’s general news coverage is shaping up in Kentucky. Questions about coverage plans are welcome and should be direc... BC-KY–Kentucky News Digest, Update, KY Here’s a look at how AP’s general news coverage is shaping up in Kentucky. Questions about coverage plans are welcome and should be direc... PRESS DIGEST- New York Times business news - May 22 The following are the top stories on the New York Times business pages. Reuters has not verified these stories and does not vouch for their accuracy.... PRESS DIGEST-New York Times business news - June 21 The following are the top stories on the New York Times business pages. Reuters has not verified these stories and does not vouch for their accuracy.... PRESS DIGEST-New York Times business news - June 4 The following are the top stories on the New York Times business pages. Reuters has not verified these stories and does not vouch for their accuracy.... PRESS DIGEST- New York Times business news - June 3 The following are the top stories on the New York Times business pages. Reuters has not verified these stories and does not vouch for their accuracy.... PRESS DIGEST- New York Times business news - July 11 The following are the top stories on the New York Times business pages. Reuters has not verified these stories and does not vouch for their accuracy.... PRESS DIGEST- New York Times business news - June 28 The following are the top stories on the New York Times business pages. Reuters has not verified these stories and does not vouch for their accuracy.... PRESS DIGEST- New York Times business news - July 8 The following are the top stories on the New York Times business pages. Reuters has not verified these stories and does not vouch for their accuracy.... BC-Kentucky Sports Digest Here’s a look at how AP’s sports coverage is shaping up in Kentucky. Questions about coverage plans are welcome and should be directed to... News Corp exploring potential sale of News America Marketing business Wall Street Journal-owner News Corp said on Tuesday it was evaluating options for its News America Marketing (NAM) business, including a potential sa... News Corp. exec slams online platforms’ stranglehold on news content The general counsel of News Corp., the Post’s parent company, appeared Tuesday before a House subcommittee scrutinizing the technology industry’s str... Facebook Watch thrives with breaking news, 'Fox News Update' with Shepard Smith One year after Facebook Watch debuted as a dedicated section of the social media giant for news, shows such as “Fox News Update” with Shepard Smith a... Nintendo News: Bad news for Switch fans ahead of Animal Crossing E3 2019 game updates? A press release from Nintendo has given gamers some cool stuff to look forward to... but there's one notable absence that some people are very unhapp... 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Questions about coverage plans are welcome and should be directed to... Democrats Had a Good News, Bad News Day on the Mueller Report House Democrats conducting oversight of the Trump Administration are fighting a war on two fronts: using every legal recourse available to get more i... PRESS DIGEST- British Business - June 12 The following are the top stories on the business pages of British newspapers. Reuters has not verified these stories and does not vouch for their ac... PRESS DIGEST- British Business - July 8 The following are the top stories on the business pages of British newspapers. Reuters has not verified these stories and does not vouch for their ac... PRESS DIGEST- British Business - June 6 The following are the top stories on the business pages of British newspapers. Reuters has not verified these stories and does not vouch for their ac... PRESS DIGEST- British Business - July 15 The following are the top stories on the business pages of British newspapers. 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Trump says he's not looking for war with Iran: NBC News interview President Donald Trump said on Friday he is not looking for war with Iran, but he warned that if a conflict did occur it would result in "obliteratio... Here is the latest Kentucky news from The Associated Press at 2:40 p.m. EDT LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — President Donald Trump has tweeted support for Republican Gov. Matt Bevin in Kentucky’s primary election. Trump’s ... The biggest news at Computex 2019 Our week in Taiwan is coming to a close, and as Team Engadget bids goodbye to the dumplings and beef noodles, it's time to look back on all the ... Google to roll out redesigned News tab Google will soon unveil a refreshed News tab that places a priority on publishers, rather than headlines. The company today tweeted a preview of the ... Morning News Call - India, May 29 To access a PDF version of this newsletter, please click here http://share.thomsonreuters.com/assets/newsletters/Indiamorning/MNC_IN_05292019.pdf ... 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Questions about coverage plans are welcome and s... iOS 13 release date, news and rumors iOS 13 will be the biggest tech news in less than two weeks if you own an iPhone or iPad, as several new features are rumored in advance of Apple WWD... When an advisor has to deliver some bad news to a client We asked nine financial advisors, including eight members of the CNBC Digital Financial Advisors Council, what was the worst news they ever had to te... Bad news for Sweden: Miedema gets better in big games Dutch striker Vivianne Miedema gets even better in big games and that could mean trouble for Sweden in the teams' World Cup semifinal on Wednesd... Here is the latest Kentucky news from The Associated Press at 1:40 a.m. EDT RICHMOND, Ky. (AP) — The destruction of chemical weapons stored in Kentucky since the 1940s is set to begin. The Lexington Herald-Leader reports that... 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Facebook and Google likely to face new regulators for news and ads ACCC report argues for an authority to monitor ads to ensure tech giants do not break anti-competition lawsFacebook and Google are likely to face a s... Apple dips on news of DoJ antitrust probe Shares of Apple Inc were down nearly 3% in afternoon trading on Mon following a Reuters report that the U.S. Dept of Justice was given jurisdiction t... What to Look for in Julián Castro’s Fox News Event Tonight Mr. Castro, a former housing secretary, will speak at a Fox News town-hall event on Thursday, becoming the latest Democratic candidate to take the ne... Morning News Call - India, June 13 To access a PDF version of this newsletter, please click here http://share.thomsonreuters.com/assets/newsletters/Indiamorning/MNC_IN_06132019.pdf ... Fake news is real — A.I. is going to make it much worse Advancements in AI are rapidly paving the way for "deepfake" videos, content that falsely shows people saying and doing things they never said or did... As the World Heats Up, the Climate for News Is Changing, Too Rival newsrooms are joining together to meet a crisis years in the making. But there is disagreement among some journalists on how to play the story.... Trump turns on Fox News over 2020 coverage: 'What's going on there?' President criticized Fox News at a rally on Monday for giving Democrats airtime after candidate Pete Buttigieg appeared on the channelAnyone watching... NBC launches its free news streaming service True to its word, NBC has launched its free news streaming service. NBC News Now will air live programming between 3PM and 11PM Eastern through both... Fox News Was Never Going to Treat Pete Buttigieg Fairly The Buttigieg Fox News town hall showcased the dangers of Democrats appearing on right-wing media: They'll never get fair treatment from opinion host... Morning News Call - India, June 6 To access a PDF version of this newsletter, please click here http://share.thomsonreuters.com/assets/newsletters/Indiamorning/MNC_IN_06062019.pdf ... Fact Check Any Abortion News You See on Facebook With more and more states signing abortion bans into law, it’s no surprise that Facebook is crawling with abortion-related misinformation. This time,... Morning News Call - India, July 11 To access a PDF version of this newsletter, please click here http://share.thomsonreuters.com/assets/newsletters/Indiamorning/MNC_IN_07112019.pdf ... Trump Throws All-Night Hissy Fit at Fox News President Donald Trump wrapped up his busy July 4th weekend of golf and golf-related lies with an inevitable Twitter hissy fit against his (former?) ... Julian Castro at Fox News Town Hall Julián Castro, the Housing and Urban Development secretary under former President Barack Obama and a 2020 presidential candidate, appeared at a Fox N... Washington is the best state in America, says U.S. News rankings Washington, home to tech giants such as Amazon and Microsoft, was named the top state in U.S. News & World Report's Best States rankings. ... Five ways to stop feeling overwhelmed by the news We are constantly bombarded with news, real and fake, which has been shown to cause us stress. Here, experts share tips on how to avoid becoming over... Have You Heard the Good News About Cornstarch Eggs? Being subjected to rubbery, overcooked scrambled eggs is enough to ruin the genre, but properly cooked scrambles are creamy, indulgent piles of comfo... Trump has a new favourite news network - and it's more right-wing than FOX The US president has started giving plaudits - and access - to One America News Network, an obscure TV outlet that can outfox FoxDonald Trump and Fox... Mexican tariffs would be bad news for denim retailers Mexico is the biggest supplier of men's and boy's jeans to the U.S., representing about 35% of imports, according to the American Apparel &... Apple says go to Best Buy for repairs. A Best Buy salesman gave me the bad news Apple says it has expanded its authorized service network to 1,000 Best Buy stores. A visit to a Best Buy, however, reveals some of the catches. They... REUTERS NEWS SCHEDULE AT 1000 GMT/0600 ET Here are the top stories and upcoming coverage plans for Reuters text service as of 10 a.m. GMT/6 a.m. ET. For a full schedule of news and events, go... Starfield: latest trailers, rumors and news We may not know much about Starfield, but by goodness are we excited. Bethesda's upcoming single-player RPG set in outer space marks the gaming ... Trump says customers should drop AT&T over CNN news coverage U.S. President Donald Trump targeted AT&T on Monday, urging customers to drop the telecommunications company over its ownership of cable news network... Whatever became of urban myths? Were they replaced by fake news? The long-running series in which readers answer other readers’ questions on subjects ranging from trivial flights of fancy to profound scientific con... Why the chunky trainer trend might be bad news for your feet Trainers are the rare combination of fashionable and practical. But with soles getting thicker, podiatrists warn: don’t mistake them for gym shoesFor... macOS 10.15: news, release date and rumors It's almost certain that macOS 10.15 will launch next week during Apple's WWDC 2019 event on June 3, so it won't be too long until we ... Morning News Call - India, June 4 Morning News Call - India edition will not be published on Wednesday, June 5, as markets are closed for Id-Ul-Fitr (Ramzan Id) To access a PDF v... Daily News gets Cuomo’s name and gender wrong The troubled Daily News keeps cranking out bloopers. On its website May 16, it changed both the first name and the gender of Gov. Andrew Cuomo in a p... AMD Navi release date, news and rumors After launching the AMD Radeon VII earlier this year, AMD Navi has finally been revealed at Computex 2019, and it looks like the new Radeon RX 5000 s... Good news: Jean-Luc Picard has a puppy now As anyone who’s spent more than five picoseconds on the internet knows, authentic sources of joy are few and far between. Among them, though, there a... Morning News Call - India, July 4 To access a PDF version of this newsletter, please click here http://share.thomsonreuters.com/assets/newsletters/Indiamorning/MNC_IN_07042019.pdf ... Madden NFL 20 release date, trailers and news Madden NFL is EA Sports’ long-running football franchise, and like clockwork, another one is headed our way with new features and improvements... Bad News About Those Constant Campaign Emails---They Work With so many candidates in the presidential race, fundraising messages are reaching spam level and sounding more desperate. Consultants say there’s n... Here’s why U.S. stock markets didn’t mind a bit of bad news The Dow surged 263 points as a disappointing jobs report and ongoing trade tensions buoyed investors' hopes that the Federal Reserve will cut rates t... Here’s why stock markets didn’t mind a bit of bad news The Dow surged 263 points as a disappointing jobs report and ongoing trade tensions buoyed investors’ hopes that the Fed will cut rates to boost the ... Trump's tariff tactics could be bad news for China and EU Business leaders, financial markets, the American consumer, even many Republican politicians - plenty will be breathing a sigh of relief that a trade... Missed the E3 News? Here Are the Games and Consoles We’re Most Excited About Ah, the Electronics Entertainment Expo, or E3 for short — that time of the year when the video game industry gathers to tell us all about the i... NOT REAL NEWS: A look at what didn’t happen this week A roundup of some of the most popular but completely untrue stories and visuals of the week. None of these is legit, even though they were shared wid... Guest lineups for the Sunday news shows WASHINGTON (AP) — Guest lineups for the Sunday TV news shows: ABC’s “This Week” — Mayor Pete Buttigieg of South Bend, Ind.; Rep. Li... Mozilla wants you to pay $5 a month for its own version of Apple News+ Mozilla seems poised to jump into the paid news aggregation game soon, with the nonprofit behind the Firefox browser now teasing a $5-per-month subsc... Gears 5: release date, news and trailers Microsoft's exclusive Gears of War series is one of the most popular to hit Xbox, with the Lancer and its chainsaw bayonet as recognizable as Ha... Aftershock hits during earthquake news conference A strong earthquake rattled a large swath of Southern California on Thursday, rattling nerves and causing some damage in a town near the epicenter, ... Keanu Reeves and new Xbox: All gaming news from E3 Keanu Reeves, George RR Martin and the next generation of the Xbox console - the E3 games conference doesn't really start until Tuesday and there's b... Microsoft teases next-gen Xbox news at E3 event Many have suspected that Microsoft would talk about its next Xbox at its E3 event, and that now appears to be virtually guaranteed. Gamers have disco... 'It's good news the FCA/Renault merger has fallen through' Opinion 9 Jun, 2019 The idea of a potential merger between FCA and Renault sounded like a bad idea, so Mike Rutherford is glad the deal... VanMoof X2 ebike: ‘Bad news for bike thieves’ Its stealth lock is just one of many innovations in this smartest of smart new ebikesPrice £2,598 vanmoof.comWeight 19kgGears 2-speed, autoRange 40 m... Quibi to Create Daily News Show With NBC Quibi will launch a twice-daily news show in partnership with NBC News, part of a strategy to lure viewers to its short-form streaming service every ... \| Inflatable tanks and 'fake news': The little-known side of D-Day On June 6, 1944, more than 150 000 Allied troops invaded the northern French coast, marking the start of France's liberation from its Nazi occupiers.... EU chief: Brexit a 'vaccine' against 'fake news' Brexit has acted as a warning against leaving the European Union and was a "vaccine against anti-EU propaganda and fake news", according to European ... Why Trump’s Threatened Mexico Tariffs Are Really Bad News for BMW BMW executives opened the automaker’s first Mexican assembly plant extolling its value for the coming years, just a week after President Donald... Newscoop: A Facebook for news with a Wikipedia twist The Amsterdam-based startup aims to democratize news by leveraging a global network of citizen journalists. The platform is harnessing blockchain tec... Shenmue 3: release date, trailers and news It's been 18 years since the original release of Shenmue 2 on the Sega Dreamcast, and for ages, it looked like we would never see another instal... The media has a big problem, Reuters Institute says: Who will pay for the news? News organisations are being challenged by technology giants and unsettled by a broader lack of trust but they have a much deeper problem: most peopl... 4 Your Health: Alarming news about mortality in America Deaths from alcohol, drugs and suicide are at all time highs. The number of Americans dying from alcohol, drugs and suicide has reached an all time h... CBS expands its streaming local news service to Los Angeles CBS has expanded its local news streaming service to Los Angeles after it debuted CBSN New York in December, giving Los Angelenos another way to find... Crude prices rise after positive news from China Oil prices rose early Tuesday, after Monday declines, possibly helped by some positive news from China -- but doubts remain as to whether that direct... Fox News Exclusive: Trump says Mueller made a ‘fool’ of himself President Trump, in an exclusive interview with Fox News’ Laura Ingraham, said former Special Counsel Robert Mueller made “such a fool” out of himsel... Miami news anchor Todd Tongen dead at 56 MIAMI — The weekend news anchor at Miami TV station WPLG has died at 56. The ABC affiliate says Todd Tongen was found dead by police after his wife w... Twitter acquires AI startup to help it fight fake news Twitter has acquired London startup Fabula AI, which is working on a technology to detect fake news. On its website, Fabula says its patented technol... UK wants to curb fake news and cyberbullying with new internet laws The UK government plans to make social media firms legally take responsibility for their users and safety, as well as the content that appears on the... Latest Kentucky news, sports, business and entertainment at 4:20 p.m. EDT TRAMPOLINE PARK-SUPREME COURT Kentucky’s high court rules in trampoline park injury case (Information from: Courier Journal, http://www.courier... New planet habitability study is bad news for alien hunters If you’re hoping to one day wake up to news that life has been found hiding out on some distant planet, researchers from the University of Cali... D-day 75th anniversary: ceremonies in Normandy – live news Follow live updates as world leaders join veterans to mark the 75th anniversary of the D-day landings in Normandy 9.26am BST A message from Pope Fran... Hedge fund could bid for Hudson News wholesale operation Could Anthony Melchiorre’s Chatham Asset Management be readying a bid to buy out Jimmy Cohen’s Hudson News magazine wholesale distribution business? ... Zack Wheeler’s good news might not be enough to salvage trade value MINNEAPOLIS — Zack Wheeler is aware of the baseball calendar, but can only shrug at the mention of how his recent injury might affect the Mets’ plans... E3 2019: all the news from Microsoft's Xbox conference - as it happened At its E3 2019 press conference, Microsoft showed a raft of new games and announced a release date for its next-generation console, Project Scarlett.... Doom Eternal: release date, trailers and news A year after Doom: Eternal debuted, we've seen a lot more about the sequel to the much-loved 2016 reboot. The new game looks even faster, more f... Republicans Desperately Trying to Make 'History' the Next 'Fake News' On Monday, the House Judiciary Committee kicked off its hearing on Special Counsel Robert Mueller’s report, welcoming a quartet of legal experts to s... Chinese financial news site closed for 'rectification' The Chinese financial news website wallstreetcn.com said it has been shut down to undergo "rectification" amid a wider crackdown by the Chinese autho... Didi Gregorius has started spreading the news again on Twitter The Yankees’ first win of the second half produced Didi Gregorius’ first emoji-filled tweet of the 2019 season. Gregorius, who started the year on th... MacBook 2019 release date, news and rumors Last year came and went with no sign of the new MacBook. Instead, Apple launched the new MacBook Air – which some would argue replaced it. How... Kevin Durant's Achilles Injury Sounds Like Bad News All The Way Around Warriors president of basketball operations Bob Myers spoke at the postgame podium Monday night following his team’s 106–105 victory over the Toronto... Latest Kentucky news, sports, business and entertainment at 3:20 p.m. EDT KENTUCKY GOVERNOR-THE LATEST The Latest: Trump tweets support for Kentucky governor LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — President Donald Trump has tweeted support... iPhone XI: all the news, leaks, price and release date Well, folks, 2019 is here and although we’ve got months of waiting before the next generation of iPhones hits us — there are already rumors about the... Google Fuchsia release date, news and rumors We were expecting to see Google announce Google Fuchsia, or Google Andromeda – a fusion of its Chrome and Android operating systems (OS) ... Trump says 'it doesn't matter' if China's Xi attends G20: Fox News U.S. President Donald Trump said on Friday "it doesn't matter" if Chinese leader Xi Jinping attends the Group of 20 summit later this month, predicti... Facebook, Google and Twitter need to do more to tackle fake news, EU says In a report published Friday, the EU found evidence of "coordinated inauthentic behavior" on online platforms ahead of the European Parliament electi... Fake news is real — A.I. is going to make it much worse Deepfaking is a product of AI and machine learning advancements that allows high-tech computers to produce completely false yet realistic videos. &#... macOS Catalina release date, news and features Apple has finally pulled the curtain back on macOS 10.15, officially named macOS Catalina. The company made the news via its live keynote address at ... FCC ruling brings good news for many U.S. smartphone users Some analysts say that half of the calls you receive on your mobile phone this year will be spam/scam calls. And we can tell you that in the U.S., th... Nvidia Super RTX release date, news and rumors Nvidia Turing has been around for nearly a year now, first revealed back in August 2018. And, now in the face of AMD Navi graphics cards being reveal... FIFA 20: release date, news, Volta modes and everything else there is to know AI defending, revamped shooting and a 'Volta Football' street and indoor five-a-side mode: FIFA 20 is on its way, and we've got the fi... Fake news: how misinformation became the new front in US political warfare Almost 70% of Americans feel fake news has greatly impacted their confidence in government institutions, a new study saysAs the US gears up for its n... AMD Ryzen 3000 release date, news and rumors When the first generation Ryzen processors came out nearly three years ago, AMD changed the market. And, now that Ryzen 2nd Generation processors hav... The Netflix business model is bad news for indie games The Netflix model doesn't work for video games. Neither does the Spotify plan, the HBO Go ecosystem or the Amazon Prime Video marketplace. Sure,... Vladimir Putin is muscling his way into Africa, and that is bad news for US interests When Moscow sees a vacuum in Africa left by Europe or the United States, it increasingly steps in with trade and business agreements, military sales ... Sri Lanka Proposes New Law On Fake News After Easter Attacks Sri Lanka's government will introduce five-year jail terms for those caught spreading fake news and hate speech on social media, the government said ... Fox News Digital posts best quarter ever, beats CNN in key metrics Fox News Digital finished the second quarter of 2019 with 4.8 billion page views, its highest multi-platform total in history, topping CNN as the No.... Miami news anchor Todd Tongen dies at 56 MIAMI (AP) — The weekend news anchor at Miami TV station WPLG has died at 56. The ABC affiliate says Todd Tongen was found dead by police after his w... Trump Tells Fox News That Homelessness Started ‘Two Years Ago’ and He’s Right When you inherit millions in property and money from your father and spend your entire life sheltered from the realities of the real world, you are b... Trump and Putin comment on fake news in Osaka Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump were heard on camera discussing "fake news" before their talks at the G-20 summit in O... Mozilla is testing an ad-free news subscription for $5 a month Mozilla last month hinted at introducing paid features in its Firefox browser, and it’s now spelling out its plans more clearly. The not-for-profit o... New iPhone 11 release date, price, news and leaks New iPhone 11 leaks point to a dramatic change to Apple's camera design, according to the concepts ahead of the expected September release date ... Latest Kentucky news, sports, business and entertainment at 5:20 p.m. EDT NOAH’S ARK PARK-LAWSUIT Lawsuit: Flood damage at Noah’s Ark attraction in Kentucky WILLIAMSTOWN, Ky. (AP) — In the Bible, the ark survive... Roma uses transfer news videos to help missing children ROME (AP) — Soccer club Roma is using its reputation for innovative social media to help the search for missing children in the United States and Ita... Beyond Good and Evil 2 trailer, release date and news We've been waiting a long time for the sequel to Beyond Good and Evil, the action-adventure classic that originally released in 2003. But after ... The Elder Scrolls 6: release date, news and rumors Bethesda granted the wishes of Elder Scrolls fans everywhere when studio boss Todd Howard confirmed at E3 2018 that the developer is working on the h... GTA 6: all the latest news and rumors for Grand Theft Auto 6 With Red Dead Redemption 2 out of the way, we can now start thinking about the inevitable game in the Grand Theft Auto franchise: GTA 6.How can we be... Bought a faulty product on Amazon? This could be good news for you There's a lot of stuff on Amazon these days. From its humble beginnings as on online bookstore, the massive retailer has since incorporated all ... Trump rips Fox News for using New York Times ‘as a source’ President Trump blasted Fox News on Twitter Sunday night — saying the news giant “is now loading up with Democrats” and “even using... Latest Kentucky news, sports, business and entertainment at 1:20 a.m. EDT NOAH’S ARK PARK-LAWSUIT Lawsuit: Flood damage at Noah’s Ark attraction in Kentucky WILLIAMSTOWN, Ky. (AP) — In the Bible, the ark survive... Singapore's ban on fake news sets a dangerous precedent As tempting as it sounds, Singapore's initiative to curb online misinformation could stop public-interest journalism and stifle academic discourse, s... Acquitted Navy SEAL thanks Donald Trump, Fox News The decorated Navy SEAL who was acquitted of murder in the killing of a wounded Islamic State captive under his care in Iraq in 2017 thanked Fox News... macOS 10.14 Mojave release date, news and features Now that macOS Mojave has made it on our Macs, bringing key iOS apps like News and Stocks to the fold, Apple’s OS is better than ever. This up... macOS High Sierra news, updates and features Apple’s macOS 10.13 High Sierra has been out for two years ago now, and it’s obviously not the current Mac operating system – th... Ghost of Tsushima: release date, trailers and news First announced at 2017’s Paris Games Week, Ghost of Tsushima is a brand new IP from Sucker Punch which will be exclusive to PlayStation 4.&#x... Latest Kentucky news, sports, business and entertainment at 9:20 p.m. EDT VETERAN-D-DAY BURIAL Decorated Indiana WWII veteran to be buried at Arlington (Information from: Evansville Courier & Press, http://www.courierpress.... Pelley says complaints to execs led to evening news ouster LOS ANGELES (AP) — Former “CBS Evening News” anchor Scott Pelley says he lost that job because he wouldn’t stop complaining to mana... Unbelievable Fascism: Maryam Nawaz After Pak News Channels Taken Off Air Three Pakistani news channels were taken off air in many cities across the country on Monday, prompting PML-N leader Maryam Nawaz to term the inciden... Redmi K20, Vivo Z1 Pro, Mi CC9, LG W Series, and Other Tech News This Week Redmi K20 is being teased by Xiaomi, Mi CC9 is set to launch, Vivo Z1 Pro price in India set to be revealed, LG W series launched in India, and more... News Reports: 8 People Shot At Party In Virginia CHESAPEAKE, Va. (AP) — News reports say at least eight people were shot during a party in Virginia. It was not immediately known whether there were a... Latest Kentucky news, sports, business and entertainment at 11:20 a.m. EDT VAPING-SCHOOLS In vaping response, schools mull treatment with discipline HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — Officials at schools across the United States have b... \| Struggling Bulls get Vermeulen injury news boost Bulls No 8 Duane Vermeulen has given the team's fans a welcome boost by confirming the injury he suffered against the Brumbies in Canberra is not ser... Death Stranding release date, trailers and news Death Stranding has been in development for years and we're still no closer to understanding what the allusive title from Hideo Kojima is actual... Apple AirPods 2 release date, news and rumors Whatever happened to the AirPods 2? After waiting months for the newly announced AirPods model to finally land, what we actually got was a small twea... Cyberpunk 2077: release date, trailer and news Cyberpunk 2077 is a neon cyberpunk game that has The Witcher 3 developer CD Projekt Red moving from a gritty, high fantasy world to an equally gritty... Latest Kentucky news, sports, business and entertainment at 6:20 a.m. EDT PAVING WITH RECYCLED TIRES Kentucky state grants will use old tires to repave roadways FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) — Kentucky’s Division of Waste Manag... CORRECTED-Morning News Call - India, July 5 (Corrects to remove Livechat event for the day) To access a PDF version of this newsletter, please click here http://share.thomsonreuters.com/assets/... North Korea: Fake news on both sides is the norm Stories of the secretive state captivate media and audiences alike. But often the stories are only half true, sometimes outright false — especially t... Newly-wed Vettel hopes for good news from stewards A newly-married Sebastian Vettel and his Ferrari Formula One team hope to persuade stewards on Friday to review a controversial decision that cost th... Trump tells Fox News DOJ looking into whether his phone calls were monitored One day after formally launching his 2020 presidential bid, President Trump told Fox News' "Hannity" exclusively on Wednesday that investigators are ... Luigi's Mansion 3: release date, news, and features It’s been six long years since Nintendo last released a game in the Luigi’s Mansion series, and with fans beginning to give up hope of ... Cramer: The bad trade news is partially baked in, but the sell-off isn't over "We still haven't seen the big estimate cuts that we can expect from the analysts who weren't expecting President Trump to keep raising tar... Latest Kentucky news, sports, business and entertainment at 3:20 a.m. EDT KENTUCKY GOVERNOR Beshear vs. Bevin political showdown set in Kentucky LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — In Kentucky political circles, Beshear vs. Bevin has be... How Fox News changed its tune on covering North Korea CNN's Brian Stelter looks at how Fox News' coverage of North Korea, and meeting with its leader Kim Jong Un, has changed during the Trump presidency.... On Fox News, Kirsten Gillibrand Talks Abortion, Al Franken and More In an hourlong appearance on Sunday, Ms. Gillibrand, hoping to bolster her flagging candidacy, got into some contentious exchanges about the host net... Fox News viewers flock to Trump’s holiday speech Fox News Channel viewers gave the network unusually high ratings for the Fourth of July because it aired President Donald Trump’s Washington parade a... \| WATCH: Aftershock hits during earthquake news conference A strong earthquake has rattled a large swath of Southern California, followed by a swarm of aftershocks including one during a news conference. WATC... iPhone SE 2 release date, news, price and leaks Update: WWDC 2019, Apple's yearly celebration of its software (and sometimes hardware too), is today, and with it comes a chance of hearing abou... Here is the latest Kentucky and Tennessee sports news from The Associated Press NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Going into the final year of his rookie contract, Marcus Mariota hasn’t changed anything about how he prepares for this... PS5: all the games, specs, news, and rumors for Sony’s Playstation 5 There's a new PlayStation coming. Whether it's called the PS5, PlayStation 5 or something else remains to be seen, but there's new gam... Apple HomePod 2: rumors, news, release date and more There's a Google Home Mini and an Amazon Echo Dot. But is Apple on the verge of launching a smaller version of its popular HomePod smart speaker... OnePlus 7T Pro: release date, price, news and leaks The OnePlus 7T Pro is the next flagship that we expect to see from OnePlus, and it's expected to come by the end of 2019 and bring improvements to th... Theresa May expected to announce her resignation – live news Latest news as prime minister widely expected to bow to pressure from Tory MPs and reveal the date she will leave Downing StreetTheresa May expected ... iTunes Is Dead As We Know It (and All the Rest of the News About macOS Catalina) With Apple Music, Apple TV+, and other streaming services making owning gigabytes of MP3 and video files a thing of the past, iTunes, the iOS desktop... Why I’m climate striking against Fox News on Friday \| Alexandria Villaseñor The news media is society’s alarm clock – it needs to wake us upThis past Saturday, I was among hundreds of activists with the group Extinction Rebel... tvOS 13: All the news and features of Apple's next TV operating system After unveiling being unveiled at this year's WWDC 2019 conference, tvOS 13 is ready for developers to download - the second beta is ready to te... ‘We’re watching’: Trump stokes UFO rumors during ABC News interview Three senators had recently been briefed by the Pentagon on navy encounters with unidentified aircraft, a report saidUFOs are usually the preserve of... Investors Shouldn't Get Used to Good News Hurting Stocks The easy narrative after Friday’s blowout jobs report was that good news on the economy is bad news for stocks, as bond yields jumped and the S&P 500... LGBTQ news coverage still evolving 50 years after Stonewall NEW YORK (AP) — Fifty years after the Stonewall uprising that galvanized the LGBTQ rights movement, media treatment of the groups have changed — and ... Anthem: update news, DLC, tips, patch notes and more Anthem, BioWare's cooperative, team-based shooter is a change of pace for the makers of Dragon Age and Mass Effect. With a focus on cooperative ... Mozilla preps its ad-free news subscription service for testing Mozilla seems to have made significant progress on its Apple News competitor over three months after it was announced. According to various sources, ... Fox News beats CNN, MSNBC combined in ratings, tops all of cable Fox News Channel attracted more prime-time viewers than CNN and MSNBC combined last week, adding to its streak as the most-watched basic cable networ... Facebook reduces sensational health claims in your News Feed Facebook knows junk health claims are a problem, and it has quietly taken action to keep them out of sight. The internet giant has revealed that it ... Virtual banks could be bad news for small lenders in Singapore, Moody's says Ratings agency Moody's said in a note that Singapore's decision to issue new digital bank licenses to non-banks will increase competition i... ‘CBS Evening News’ ratings plummet on Norah O’Donnell’s debut Norah O’Donnell’s debut as the new “CBS Evening News” anchor drew much media fanfare but not so many viewers. The former co-host of “CBS This Morning... How Kawhi Leonard told Raptors’ Nick Nurse the bad news Nick Nurse was hanging out with a few Raptors coaches Friday night when Kawhi Leonard’s name popped up on his phone. The text Nurse knew might ... Watch Dogs Legion: release date, news and trailers Ubisoft has officially announced Watch Dogs: Legion during its E3 2019 conference. Rumors suggested the latest instalation to the Watch Dog series wo... Facebook bans health and conspiracy site Natural News Enlarge (credit: Getty Images) Facebook on Sunday removed the prominent health and conspiracy site Natural News from its platform and banned its in... 'Fake news': China dismisses reports about detention of Uighurs Chinese state media says claims of family separations in ethnic minority communities are ‘rumours’ A Chinese state media outlet has called overseas r... Baseball stars react to David Ortiz shooting news Former Red Sox David Ortiz was shot and wounded Sunday at a club in the Dominican Republic, according to reports. The news caused an outpouring of lo... Detention Of Tanker Loaded With Iranian Crude "Excellent News", Says US White House National Security Advisor John Bolton applauded the interception by Britain's Gibraltar Thursday of a supertanker believed to be carrying... Trucking Stocks Race Higher on J.B. Hunt's Good News America’s trucking companies are revving up thanks to an upbeat report from J.B. Hunt Transport Services, signaling the transport sector could be tur... Google Makes Billions From News Without Paying Publishers: Study Google took in some $4.7 billion in revenue in 2018 from "crawling and scraping" news websites without paying publishers, according to an industry-sp... Brexit: Former ambassador to EU Ivan Rogers gives evidence to MPs - live news Rolling coverage of the day’s political developments as they happenLunchtime summaryEU expected to reject outright Johnson and Hunt’s backstop planGr... Xiaomi Mi Band 4 release date, price, news and leaks Update: We now know the Xiaomi Mi Band 4 will be unveiled at an event in China on June 11. That should mean we're set to know more about the fit... In news, when words fail, graphic and shocking photos often don't Images of human crises can seize our attentions and, in some cases, propel us toward action or least new insight. ... Schools to teach pupils about perils of fake news and catfishing Education secretary says guidance will help guard children against online harmsGuidance on teaching online safety in schools to make children more re... High stakes for NBC News ahead of 2-night Democratic debate The 1st 2020 Democratic presidential debate is important not just for politicians getting their initial wide exposure as potential presidents but als... Following News That Jony Ive Is Leaving, Apple Stock Loses Billions It’s been about an hour since Apple announced that Sir Jony Ive, Apple’s design guru, is leaving to form his own design company. And the money men ar... Boxing News at Five: Dillian Whyte lambasts WBO Usyk ruling Dillian Whyte feels disrespected by the WBO installing Oleksandr Usyk as the mandatory challenger for their heavyweight title. Terry Dooley rounds up... Google declutters its news tab on desktop search pages with a fresh look The News tabon Google’s search results pages is a pretty big deal when you’re trying to keep up with the world: for many people, it’s their quickest ... EU calls for more data from online platforms in fight against fake news The European Union said online platforms must do more to combat disinformation, including sharing data on their efforts, after it tracked suspected R... Boxing News at Five: What is a ‘franchise champion’ and why has the WBC made Canelo Alvarez one? In a baffling move the WBC make Jermall Charlo champion and Canelo Alvarez 'franchise' titlist. Terry Dooley tries to fathom it in today's Boxing New... Samsung Galaxy Fit release date, price, news and features The Samsung Galaxy Fit is the latest fitness tracker announced by the company, and it was revealed alongside the smaller, lower-end Galaxy Fit E.This... Ghost of Tsushima: Forget about a PS4 release date, this news is far more exciting Though there have been some questionable reports about the release date of Ghost of Tsushima this week, it's also worth noting that some really good ... Iran says it refrained from shooting down U.S. plane with 35 on board: Tasnim news Iran refrained from shooting down a U.S. plane with 35 people on board that was accompanying the downed drone in the Gulf, a Revolutionary Guards com... Good news, Connor4Real fans: The Popstar soundtrack is out on vinyl, at last The Lonely Island might be some hot garbage in the eyes of our future robot overlords, but it’s still having a pretty great year: Not only did the co... Fox News Poll: Tariffs hurt economy, Trump has gone too far on immigration Fifty-seven percent of voters feel optimistic about the economy. That’s down from 66 percent who felt that way when President Trump was inaugurated i... Trump to back down from citizenship question on U.S. census to have different survey: ABC News U.S. President Donald Trump is expected to back down on Thursday from putting a citizenship question on the census, instead issuing an executive orde... Global News reporter catches up with ‘Plant Guy’ after video goes viral Global News catches up with "Plant Guy" after viral video shows a man carrying a large tree-like plant around the streets of downtown Toronto calling... Boxing News at Five: Wilder believes Whyte wants nothing to do with him, Dib says Khan is in decline Deontay Wilder says Dillian Whyte is all talk, no action, and Billy Dib admits he would need an eight-figure payday to get in the ring with Manny Pac... The Kardashian of Presidents Is Beefing With the Jordyn Woods of News Networks President Donald Trump believes all news is fake news except the state-sponsored Russia Times Fox News, which the president considers a friend. The p... Google Pixel 4 release date, price, news and leaks The Google Pixel 4 is a secret no more. We know what the Pixel 4 will look like because Google itself has shown us. That's not because the ... Nissan ex-chair Ghosn holding news conference in Tokyo TOKYO (AP) — Former Nissan Chairman Carlos Ghosn plans a news conference later Friday that would be his first since he was arrested in November on fi... Cambodia jails translator over 'fake news' sex trafficking film A Cambodian court jailed a fixer and translator for two years on Wednesday for his role in making a documentary about sex trafficking in the Southeas... Apple to Reportedly Improve Its News+ Service After Poor Start Apple's News+ service is reportedly in for a design overhaul, among other improvements. Multiple publishers have been unimpressed with the revenue ge... Apple reportedly vows improvements to News+ after lackluster start Apple's News+ service might be in line for a shakeup not long after its debut. Business Insider sources claim that publishers' revenue fro... Apple reportedly promises publishers improvements to its News Plus service Apple News Plus, which you can pay $10 a month for in the US, is a big part of Apple's push into digital services, but a new report suggests tha... Dubai's GEMS to meet banks for $1.65 bln refinancing - LPC news service Dubai-based GEMS Education is meeting banks in London and New York this week to discuss refinancing worth $1.65 billion, according to LPC, a fixed in... Publishers are reportedly upset at Apple over the News+ app, and with good reason In March of last year, Apple bought Texture, the company whose app was called "the Netflix of magazines." For $9.99 a month, users could read from a ... Spotify's latest playlist combines music and news for your commute It's no secret Spotify wants to know more about what you do in your car, and today the company is officially debuting a new playlist for your co... Actor Cuba Gooding Jr. to turn himself in after groping allegation: NBC News Film actor Cuba Gooding Jr. intends to turn himself in to New York City police after a woman accused him of groping her at a Manhattan bar over the w... Jennifer Dulos’ family is sheltering her kids from news coverage Family and friends of the missing Connecticut mom are trying to preserve a sense of normalcy for her five children — and keep the youngsters away fro... Jim Cramer’s financial news company The Street has agreed to sell The Street, the financial news company started by Jim Cramer, has agreed to sell its last remaining piece to The Maven, a publicly traded platform fo... Shay Mitchell Is Pregnant! See More Stars Who Kept Their Baby News a Secret Got a secret, can you keep it? Shay Mitchell sure can! The Pretty Little Liars star surprised Hollywood on Friday by announcing she and boyfriend Ma... Spotify offering a new music and news playlist that could take the place of radio When radio swept the nation on the 1930s, it essentially became the country’s first mass medium. Listeners soon became addicted to hearing whatever w... Cambodia jails translator over ‘fake news’ sex trafficking film The fixer and translator for the film will face for two years in jail for his role in making a documentary about sex trafficking in the Southeast Asi... Trump rails against Fox News for its weekend coverage, says watching it is worse than CNN Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images President Donald Trump on Sunday slammed Fox News — his preferred cable news network — for "loading up wi... \| US border \| Brexit: WATCH the top world news videos for today Senate approves its own border aid bill amid photo outrage \| Johnson refuses to rule out suspending Parliament to force through Brexit; here are the ... The Latest: Hong Kong leader Lam to speak at news conference The Latest on protests in Hong Kong (all times local): 3 p.m. Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam plans a news conference Tuesday afternoon following massive... Theresa May makes statement to MPs about her 'New Brexit Deal' – live news Rolling coverage of the day’s political developments as they happen, including PMQs and Theresa May’s statement to the Commons about her latest Brexi... CNN's Jim Acosta claims Trump was just engaging in an 'act' when he called him 'fake news' CNN reporter Jim Acosta will reportedly release a new book, on June 11, in which he suggests that President Trump didn't take the "fake news" accusat... Windows 10 May 2019 Update release date, news and features The Windows 10 May 2019 Update is finally ready to download, and it's the first – and possibly only – major update for Microsoft&a... Guy Benson’s Fox News Radio show expands, shifts to afternoons Guy Benson’s role on Fox News Radio will expand with the debut of “The Guy Benson Show” on June 3 at 3 p.m. ET, Fox News Radio vice president John Sy... Boxing News at Five: Fury says ‘disgrace’ Joshua will lose again to Ruiz Tyson Fury changes his tune about Anthony Joshua's downfall The post Boxing News at Five: Fury says ‘disgrace’ Joshua will lose again to ... Facebook launches new Avatar feature for News Feed and Messenger Facebook is desperately trying to keep up with the competition by launching alternatives to some of the nifty features that other social network gian... Apple watchOS 6 update release date, news and leaks Update: watchOS 6 is likely to be unveiled later today at WWDC 2019, but it won't be on your watch in its full form until later in the year. It&... De Blasio, angling for Fox News town hall, to appear on Bret Baier Mayor Bill de Blasio, who is talking to Fox News about doing a town hall like several other Democratic presidential hopefuls, will appear Thursday e... Redmi K20 Series, Samsung Galaxy M40, and More Tech News This Week Redmi K20 and Redmi K20 Pro launch, Samsung M40 price in India details, Oppo Reno India release, and OnePlus 7 sale date were some of the biggest tec... watchOS 6 update release date, compatibility, news and features Apple has just confirmed that watchOS 6 is the next version of the company's wearable software – and it will likely be coming to your App... News Analysis: The Choice in India: ‘Our Trump’ or a Messier Democracy The results of India’s parliamentary election will reveal not just a decision on Narendra Modi, but a deeper decision on what kind of government Indi... Tech news roundup: GDPR turns 1, and who makes the best apps? Karen Roby reports on this week's biggest tech news, which includes Huawei's Android license and GDPR’s one-year anniversary, as well as what Microso... UPDATE 1-AstraZeneca searches for successor to Chairman Johansson - Sky News British drugmaker AstraZeneca Plc is preparing to search for a successor to Chairman Leif Johansson, Sky News reported https://bit.ly/2Zals8B on Mond... Good news, horror fans: Joe Bob Briggs' The Last Drive-In has been renewed There’s been a lot of talk lately about the apparent death of “event TV,” with the recent finale of HBO’s Game Of Thrones—regardless of your petition... Federer bemused that Thiem's news conference was cut short 2018 French Open runner-up Dominic Thiem's news conference abruptly stopped to make way for sudden arrival of Serena Williams following her loss... Iran says Europe not cooperating in buying Iranian oil: Fars news Iranian Oil Minister Bijan Zanganeh said on Wednesday that Europe was not cooperating with Tehran to buy its oil in the face of U.S. sanctions agains... Apple Watch 5 release date, price, news and leaks Apple's smartwatch series if one of the best selling on the planet and adorns wrists all over the world - but it's not perfect. The Apple W... Red Dead Online: latest news, updates and multiplayer features Red Dead Online has now officially left beta testing - bursting out of the stables with a massive new update. But with such a massive open-world to e... NBC News Now, a free streaming service, launches Monday through Friday NBC News Now, a free entry in the increasingly crowded video streaming news sector, formally launches Wednesday afternoon with eight regular hours of... Half of Americans think fake news is a big problem and they blame politicians for it Misinformation was cited more often as a major problem than sexism, racism, illegal immigration or terrorism. ... UAE, U.S. activate defence cooperation pact: state news agency A defence cooperation agreement between the United Arab Emirates and the United States has come into force, UAE state news agency WAM said on Wednesd... Fortnite Battle Royale update news, patch notes and more In such a short space of time, Fortnite Battle Royale has become certified gaming phenomenon. Pitting 100 players against each other on a single map,... Apex Legends: latest update news, characters, tips and more EA surprised many with the sudden announcement of Apex Legends back in February, a free-to-play battle royale shooter that sees the publisher going t... Troubled Daily News sports desk publishes another blooper The Daily News sports desk is starting to look more shaky than Yankees error-prone outfielder Clint Frazier. The latest blooper came in the deck of a... The Internet Reacts To Today's Pokémon Sword And Shield News This morning we all learned more about Pokémon Sword and Shield, and also met my new child, Wooloo. The internet is as excited for new Pokémon as I a... Google Made $4.7 Billion From the News Industry in 2018, Study Says Journalists create the content, and big tech companies are profiting off it, according to a new analysis. “We need to share the revenue,” a news publ... CNN preparing to make cuts at London-based news operation Surprise announcement likely to result in at least a dozen employees losing their jobsCNN is preparing to make substantial cuts to its London-based t... Not Surprisingly, It's Bad News When The Words "Orioles" And "Dingers" And "Record" Appear In The Same Sentence Home runs are up across baseball. The woeful Baltimore Orioles will not be the only team whose pitchers give up what in previous eras would’ve been c... 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Tech news roundup: FBI's most wanted cybercriminals, mid-priced phones, and a smarter Roomba Karen Roby reports on this weeks biggest tech news which includes, the FBI's most wanted cybercriminals, a look at new mid-priced phones, a smarter R... LOCALNEWSDETROIT.COM Home \| Search \| Join \| Contact LOCALNEWSDETROIT.COM: Breaking News - Latest of The Hour Contact \| Join	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4169
__label__cc	0.523163	0.476837	Hot topics in April Saddle up! In their element Big-city jungle Vintage discovery Preserved in time Cologne Airport © Patrick Tombola Lagoon in a glass TEXT FRITZ SCHAAP PHOTOS PATRICK TOMBOLA Every year 30 million tourists travel to Venice. And yet it still has a few secret backyards and gardens where magical things can arise – wine, for instance. We visit the guerilla vintners On a gray September morning, Colleen McCann, 67, and Vanna Purisiol, 68, are sitting in the old monastery garden on the cemetery island of San Michele just outside Venice. Two women of mature years, red coral necklaces, golden earrings, and a beatific smile on their faces. They cut into a chunk of pecorino and open a bottle of wine. The wind is salty, the sky low-slung and gray. This is always a peaceful place, but today they are here not to relax, but to work: It’s high time to harvest the grapes in the wild vineyards of Venice. Colleen, a former physiotherapist, and Vanna, who used to be a teacher, both belong to the group Laguna nel bicchiere (lagoon in a glass). They are a group of 150 guerilla vintners. They have been searching out old vineyards in Venice and awakening them to new life since 2008, taming vines that have run wild, planting new ones. They pick the grapes and take them to Venice’s cemetery island and turn them into wine – 1500 bottles a year. Wild winemakers: The Laguna nel bicchiere initiative is reviving the lagoon city’s wine culture The women let their gaze wander through the old monastery garden. It was here that Padre Fra Mauro created the most detailed and accurate world map of his day back in the 15th century. The buildings have stood empty for years, left to decay. More than 100 monks used to live in the monastery, but the last one left ten years ago. Now the facade plaster is peeling and the shutters are closed. This is the real Venice, the Venice now only to be glimpsed in very few spots around the city. Nothing in this place has been changed to attract tourists. Every Monday, Colleen comes here to see to the garden and wine cellar. Her little boat, moored behind the wall near the Number 4 ferry landing stage, rocks on the water, gently rising and falling. Nearly all of the gardens in Venice are surrounded by high walls to protect them from the salt of the sea. The monastery yard was once the monks’ vegetable garden. Now the skins of the malvasía and dorona grapes the guerilla vintners harvested a good two weeks ago are lying on top of several compost heaps. From these grapes, they produce the dry white wine they claim brings the dead back to life. They’ve given it the name “In Vino Veritas.” It has a fruity taste, a fresh acidity and a mineral character, and it contains no additives. In fact, it’s the kind of natural wine that is also becoming increasingly popular in Germany. Vanna is a Venetian born and bred; Colleen is Australian but has been living in the lagoon city for over 30 years. Both women are fighting to keep at least a few of the old traditions alive in Venice because, as they see it, the city has surrendered to mass tourism. So what goes on here on the island is about more than wine, it’s about the cultural survival of the city. As the wild winemakers agree, Venetians cannot move for tourists these days. More than 30 million people visit Venice each year as compared with the fewer than 60 000 who actually live in the center. “We want at least a little bit of Venice to survive in Venice,” says a resolute Colleen. It’s about more than just wine, it’s about the cultural survival of the city, say the vintners Once they’ve finished the cheese, Colleen and Vanna roll red plastic tubs out of the cantina, the monastery wine cellar, where the monks were already pressing grapes and producing wine in the 16th century. The barrels and bottles, tubes and corks are still kept there today. But Colleen and Vanna are committed to doing more than produce a good wine. They want to shape Venice and to do so, they are active in a variety of societies and initiatives; in groups that cultivate the classic Venetian style of rowing and others that support local artists and stage readings and markets that campaign to stop hotels from being built on the small, uninhabited islands. They also work in groups that organize demonstrations and campaigns aimed at prohibiting cruise liners from sailing right down the Canale della Giudecca – the steel monstrosities are a thorn in any true Venetian’s eye. Last resting place: the cemetery on the island of San Michele No tourist comes here to the monastery yard beside the cemetery, the last resting place of such men as Ezra Pound and Igor Stravinsky. A whiff of basil wafts across from the small herb garden the vintners have planted. Whenever grapes are being pressed or wine is being bottled or labeled, the grape guerillas set up a long table on the path paved with gravestones and celebrate with food and drink. But today, there are only a couple of old women wandering among the graves in the cemetery. Colleen and Vanna sit silent for a while, enjoying the sweet, heady scent of the fig trees, before taking the boat back to Venice; the lighthouse on Murano is already flashing its beacon across the water. The next morning at eight a.m., Colleen takes a ferry from St. Mark’s Square across to Giudecca, the island encircles the southern part of Venice. At nine o’clock, 15 men and women have assembled in the garden of a retirement home there. Dressed in colorful, they carefully snip bunches of grapes from the vines. Giancarlo Quadarella, who discovered and revived this vineyard, explains what’s good about it: “You can’t expect to produce elegant wines, but you can taste the lagoon.” Then he grabs a pair of secateurs and joins the others. The group works on in the rain until noon amid swarms of mosquitoes. There are sunflowers growing beside the vines, and the place smells of mint and lavender. Then the pickers prepare themselves a quick lunch, which they share beneath a persimmon tree. They cook pasta on a wood-burning stove, slice fresh tomatoes and open some bottles of wine. Making wine, drinking wine – eternal cycle. Then the pickers bring the grapes down to the jetty on a wheelbarrow, passing by the residents of the home that has a grandezza factor worthy of a luxury hotel. WATERSIDE BLOSSOMS A new coffee table book of photographer Norbert Heyl’s work reveals what goes on in the hidden corners of the lagoon city aside from grape picking. From monastery to kitchen gardens, from palazzo oases and glorious balconies to urban gardening – the book captures the green and fragrant faces of Venice Norbert Heyl (Photo), Cristina Gregorin (Text); Die Gärten von Venedig (The Gardens of Venice); terra magica; 40 euros Gallons not gondolas: Wine transport along the canals of Venice A heavy, gray wooden boat is waiting there, bobbing on the water. The pickers stack the crates onto the boat until there’s no space left for more, then they lay a tarpaulin over the grapes. Colleen is the last to jump into the boat – and they’re off! In the background, the long line of the Lido points toward the open sea. The typically gray-green waters of the lagoon are choppy today. The boat heads first for St. Mark’s Square, then turns off down a small canal toward Fondamente Nuove and finally on to San Michele. Waves slap against its bow sending saltwater splashing the passengers sitting up front, drinking each other’s health and squinting in the sun when it breaks briefly thought the clouds. The boat ties up at two cracked wooden piles. Colleen climbs out onto the short jetty, opens the gate and takes the first crate of grapes handed up from the boat. Then the red plastic crates are stacked on rusty metal stands that are otherwise used to bring caskets to the cemetery. A boat with another ten guerilla vintners ties up. Again bottles are eagerly opened. Colleen, Vanna and Giancarlo pull off their shoes and socks, wash their feet with cold water from the well, roll up their pants and climb into the tub now filled with grapes, and begin to tread them so that the yeast from the skins is mixed into the juice of the grapes to trigger the fermentation process. A new vintage is born. The troop strikes up old Venetian songs, recites poems about the vendemmia, the grape picking, and about the cycle of drinking, from grape to wine to intoxication. Then they remove the last twigs and stems and pour the juice and skins, the must (mosto), into large barrels, where it is left to ferment and ultimately become the “lagoon in a glass.” This wine cannot be bought. The wild winemakers serve it at markets. And there are three bars, where if you know the owner you may sample a glass. But you have to search for the bars just as the guerillas are constantly searching for new vineyards. Because even in Venice has become a walk-in postcard, the lagoon does still keep a few secrets to itself. Winemaking ring around the rosie: The guerilla vintners tread the must This story first appeared in Lufthansa Exclusive, the frequent traveller magazine. For more information about Lufthansa Miles & More offers, please click here. “I’m a lucky bastard” Sky talk Clint Eastwood on the gratification he gets from his work, the downside of aging, his love of jazz, and pride in his children Castles in the sky Media designer Matthias Jung creates surreal Photoshop collages of impossible constructions. Head in the air Frank Stratmann studies clouds in every shape and form. He chases after them in the open sky and breeds them in a lab to discover the mysteries of the phenomena that float almost daily above us. 360° – Rio’s Favela Rocinha Many filmgoers may recognize the favela Rocinha from the film Tropa de Elite. With a population of around 250,000 it is the largest favela in Brazil	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4174
__label__wiki	0.536535	0.536535	Posts Tagged ‘self policing’ best practices, Better Judgments, better laws, Catholic, Catholic Church, checks and balances, Christianity, Church, Conflict of Interest, conscientious objection, Constitution, critical discourse, dress code, Egyptian vote 2012, freedom of choice, Fundamentalism, Gender Politics, gentrification, Israel-Russia relations, Law, media traps, misplaced adoration, misrepresentation of facts, mob mentality, neutral spaces, Pimping in Law, Politics, Prostitution, red light district legalisation, self policing, sneaky proselytization methods, Socialism, spirit of the law, spirit of the word, sub-culture advocacy, subculture persecution, unprofessional behaviour, Wealth distribution, women, word of the law, wrong priority In best practices, better judgments, better laws, Catholic, Catholic Church, checks and balances, Christianity, Church, conflict of interest, conscientious objection, Constitution, critical discourse, dress code, freedom of choice, Fundamentalism, gender politics, gentrification, hegelian dialectic, Israel, Jewish State, Law, M.A.D., media traps, misplaced adoration, misrepresentation of facts, mob mentality, neutral spaces, nuclear Iran, nuclear weapons, pimping in law, politics, Prostitution, red light district legalisation, Russia, self policing, sneaky proselytization methods, Socialism, spirit of the law, spirit of the word, sub-culture advocacy, subculture persecution, unprofessional behaviour, Wealth distribution, women, word of the law, wrong priority on June 14, 2012 at 9:19 pm ‘Not many women are prepared to make themselves unattractive just to get a laugh’: The world according to Morgana Robinson – By Louise Gannon – PUBLISHED: 21:00 GMT, 9 June 2012 \| UPDATED: 21:00 GMT, 9 June 2012 Luckily, she will do anything for a giggle – which is probably why her biting new TV impressions show, Very Important People, is such a hit ‘You have to be tough in comedy, and that puts a lot of men off you. I definitely scare men. Women are still finding our way in comedy but that makes it incredibly exciting for me,’ said Morgana Robinson Success is massively important to me. I had a fairly unconventional upbringing and I’m really driven and incredibly tough on myself. I drive everyone mad during filming because I’m the one checking all the time to see if something is funny. I’m a tough girl who was brought up by a very strong mother and I very definitely have a point to prove. Women find it difficult to be funny. There aren’t that many female comedians around because it’s a pretty odd career choice for a woman. The biggest issue is making yourself look unattractive to get a laugh. I don’t have a problem with that – the more vile and grotesque I look, the funnier I think it is. But a lot of women just aren’t up for that, because we’re meant to be beautiful. You have to be tough in comedy, too, and that puts a lot of men off you. I definitely scare men. Women are still finding our way in comedy but that makes it incredibly exciting for me. Morgana as Adele. ‘I spend hours and hours watching someone before I even start,’ she said I got my break in a restaurant. I worked on reception at a very posh London restaurant called Roka, which was always packed with celebrities and very important people. I was there for eight years earning £37.50 a night for the 5pm-1am shift. I got to know a lot of the regular clients, and one night I gave a DVD to John Noel, who looks after Russell Brand. It was pretty awful, shot in my flat by my mate with me sitting on a sofa pulling faces and wearing different hats. But a few nights later he came in and said: ‘Quit your job. Start throwing rice around.’ That was it. I started out wanting to be an actress but it was the comedy that always had that real pull for me. I like making people laugh. Scarlett Johansson can be rude but Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie are sweethearts. Working as the host of a flash restaurant gives you a real insight into how people behave. Scarlett Johansson was pretty offish and unpleasant to me, but whenever Brangelina came in they were always incredibly polite and friendly, and made sure they said thank you for any tiny thing I did for them. I met even more celebrities including Bono and Lily Allen when I was working checking coats at Matthew Freud’s Christmas party. I lost my cool a bit when Ronnie Ancona walked in because I’m such a massive fan, but she was lovely and gave me her number. Fearne Cotton is a friend so I was very worried about impersonating her. I did it for the first Very Important People show and after it aired on TV I didn’t hear from her for a few days. I was beside myself thinking I’d offended her, but then she just called and told me she thought it was funny. She’s very cool. I have no idea what Cheryl Cole or Helena Bonham Carter or Adele think of being ‘done’ in my new series. I spend hours and hours watching someone before I even start. I became completely obsessed with Helena Bonham Carter. I absolutely love her because I find her completely hilarious. I’d be mortified if she was offended by my impression. I wanted to impersonate Kate Moss but I was told she wasn’t relevant any more. I had some really hilarious sketches but I was banned from doing her because the producers didn’t think people would know who she was. It’s insane. Everyone knows Kate Moss. When I saw Russell Brand I told him I was doing him. He just sort of rolled his eyes and looked a bit puzzled. I don’t think it’s possible to offend Russell. On Helena Bonham Carter: ‘I absolutely love her because I find her completely hilarious’ I went from living in poverty to going to one of the poshest boarding schools in Britain. My parents met in Australia where I was born and then we came back to England and life was tough. I remember lots of arguments about money and then my parents split up. For a few years my mum and I were sleeping on sofas at friends’ houses. Then one day my lovely Aunt Jilly turned up and said she felt I ought to go to Benenden School in Kent. My dad has always been a real rogue. He was adopted and we didn’t know much about his past but it turned out he came from a very wealthy family. I thought the idea of boarding school was amazing. My mum was working for a gardening business at the time. I turned up in her bashed-up van as everyone else was piling out of Mercedes and Daimlers. I learned to be funny at boarding school. I wasn’t pretty – I had frog eyes and a giraffe neck – but I was the joker and I knew how to get attention. I didn’t worry about not being the prettiest. I was also fairly tough – probably too tough and ballsy for the quieter girls. Amazing to think that after leaving school I took a degree in sculpture. I met a sister I never knew existed – and it turned out she was a rock star. My dad was incredibly handsome as a young man and pretty wild. He just wasn’t cut out to be a conventional father. As I grew up I found out I had four half siblings from his previous relationships and we’ve slowly tracked each other down. When I was 21, I got a call from my dad. I hadn’t spoken to him for a year or so but he told me he’d found out my sister was in London and told me to go and buy The Face because she was on the front cover. And there she was – Brody Dalle, this tough, gorgeous rock star. It was pretty surreal. I went to the Brixton Academy to see her perform. I got completely drunk because I thought that was the only way to handle it. I went backstage and we were both just crying. It was sort of weird and beautiful and then she said: ‘We have the same nose.’ And we just talked. She has two gorgeous kids but she lives in LA and I’ve never been there. I guess it was all a bit like a scene from a film. I learned to be a horse whisperer. I spent time down in Cornwall with an amazing woman called Kate Mably and it was probably the most incredible time of my life. You get onto the ground with the horses, you learn to understand them and have this unbelievable communication with them. It was unforgettable. ‘Very Important People’ is on channel4.com/programmes/4OD; ‘The Morgana Show’ is out now on DVD There are very few female versions of ‘Jackass’ or slap stick specialists. And far too many militant feminists who are merely fronting the hegelian dialectic establishment with a control agenda AGAINST men, while being controlled by ELITE MEN. What society gets is subverted menfolk who are easier to control and less likely to challenge the ELITE MALE establishment. Mid tier feminists should be very aware that democracy dies if their men do not challenge the ‘establishment’, controlled by MALE ELITE who control ELITE Feminists who influence feminists to weaken SOCIETY and CIVILISATION. You’re destroying everything and democracy as well by feminist actions you feminist fools! Taking out men is taking out democracy! The sickening and machiavellian reality of gender politics used by the ‘establishment’ to destroy democracy! IMAGINE at anti-sex assault rally: Women attacked and groped by mob! – Saturday, 09 June 2012 16:17 CAIRO- A mob of hundreds of men have assaulted women holding a march demanding an end to sexual harassment, with the attackers overwhelming the male guardians and groping and molesting several of the female marchers in Cairo’s Tahrir Square. From the ferocity of Friday’s assault, some of the victims said it appeared to have been an organized attempt to drive women out of demonstrations and trample on the pro-democracy protest movement. The attack follows smaller scale assaults on women this week in Tahrir, the epicenter of the uprising that forced Hosni Mubarak to step down last year. Thousands have been gathering in the square this week in protests over a variety of issues – mainly over worries that presidential elections this month will secure the continued rule by elements of Mubarak’s regime backed by the ruling military. Earlier in the week, an Associated Press reporter witnessed around 200 men assault a woman who eventually fainted before men trying to help could reach her. Friday’s march was called to demand an end to sexual assaults. Around 50 women participated, surrounded by a larger group of male supporters who joined to hands to form a protective ring around them. The protesters carried posters saying, “The people want to cut the hand of the sexual harasser,” and chanted, “The Egyptian girl says it loudly, harassment is barbaric.” After the marchers entered a crowded corner of the square, a group of men waded into the group of women, heckling them and groping them. The male supporters tried to fend them off, and it turned into a melee involving a mob of hundreds. The marchers tried to flee while the attackers chased them and male supporters tried to protect them. But the attackers persisted, cornering several women against a metal sidewalk railing, including an Associated Press reporter, shoving their hands down their clothes and trying to grab their bags. The male supporters fought back, swinging belts and fists and throwing water. Eventually, the women were able to reach refuge in a nearby building with the mob still outside until they finally got out to safety. “After what I saw and heard today. I am furious at so many things. Why beat a girl and strip her off? Why?” wrote Sally Zohney, one of the organizers of the event on Twitter. The persistence of the attack raised the belief of many that it was intentional, though who orchestrated it was unclear. Mariam Abdel-Shahid, a 25 year-old cinema student who took part in the march, said “sexual harassment will only take us backward.” “This is pressure on the woman to return home,” she said. Ahmed Mansour, a 22 year-old male medical student who took part in the march, said there are “people here trying to abuse the large number of women protesters who feel safe and secure. Some people think it is targeted to make women hate coming here.” “I am here to take a position and to object to this obscene act in society,” he said. Assaults on women Tahrir have been a demoralizing turn for Egypt’s protest movement. During the 18-day uprising against Mubarak last year, women say they briefly experienced a “new Egypt” taking place in Tahrir, with none of the harassment that is common in Cairo’s streets. Women participated in the anti-Mubarak uprising as leading activists, protesters, medics and even fighters to ward off attacks by security agents or affiliated thugs. They have continued the role during the frequent protests over the past 15 months against the military, which took power after Mubarak’s fall on Feb. 11, 2011. But women have also been targeted, both by mobs and by military and security forces in crackdowns, a practice commonly used by Mubarak security against protesters. Lara Logan, a U.S. correspondent for CBS television, was sexually assaulted by a frenzied mob in Tahrir on the day Mubarak stepped down, when hundreds of thousands of Egyptians came to the square to celebrate. In a defining image of the post-Mubarak state violence against women, troops dispersing a December protest in Tahrir were captured on video stripping a woman’s top off down to her blue bra and stomping with their boots on her chest, as other troops pulled her by the arms across the ground. That incident prompted an unprecedented march by some 10,000 women through central Cairo in December in a show of outrage, demanding Egypt’s ruling military step down. In contrast, the small size of Friday’s march could reflect the vulnerability and insecurity many feel in the square, which was packed with thousands of mostly young men by nightfall Friday. Twenty rights groups signed on to support the stand and hundreds more vowed to take part, according to the Facebook page where organizers publicized the event, but only around 50 women participated. Sexual harassment of women, including against those who wear the Islamic headscarf or even cover their face, is common in the streets of Cairo. A 2008 report by the Egyptian Center for Women’s Rights says two-thirds of women in Egypt experienced sexual harassment on a daily basis. A string of mass assaults on women in 2006 during the Muslim feast following the holy month of Ramadan prompted police to increase the number of patrols to combat it but legislation providing punishment was never passed. After Friday’s attack, many were already calling for another, much larger stand in the square against such assaults. Another participant in Friday’s march, Ahmed Hawary, said a close female friend of his was attacked by a mob of men in Tahrir Square in January. She was rushed off in an ambulance, which was the only way to get her out, he said. After suffering from a nervous breakdown, she left Cairo altogether to work elsewhere in Egypt. “Women activists are at the core of the revolution,” Hawary said. “They are the courage of this movement. If you break them, you break the spirit of the revolution.” -dailystar.com. Tsk! Titch! How presumptuous. The fists and guns of the men who took up arms is the REAL core of the revolution. Women were NOT the courage of this movement, the courage was in EVERY MAN who cared about the country, not the women who did not storm and occupy Tahrir. None needs to break ‘them’ women, and the spirit of the revolution is NOT even from the women to begin with! This is why this who heckling and groping occured, to remind of what was real or not. Did the women think they would be able to face the camel riders? Only the men could. This is more a Western provocation for subversive feminism than anything else, to take control of Egypt via the women. An apology by all ungrateful and presumptuous women who think this way is in order. The real minority of women who could face the camel riders made up less than 3% of the overthrowers of Mubarak. How could any claim women to be the core of the revolution? This is also not the time for sex-assault rallies! Egypt still has Islamists and Junta running for election, do the women know what that means if their men vote wrongly? Attackers overwhelming the male guardians and groping and molesting several of the female marchers in Cairo’s Tahrir Square though could have saved their own case by not acting in this manner. Perhaps they were making a message about modesty. And indeed there is something inappropriate about the whole event of marching especially when stability is so fragile . . . Nun’s book on masturbation slammed by Vatican Pope Benedict XVI addresses cardinals in the Clementine Hall at the Vatican in 2009. The Vatican slammed a “sexual morality” book written by an American Catholic nun, warning believers to stay away from the tome which justifies masturbation, homosexuality and divorce. (AFP Photo/Tony Gentile) The Vatican slammed a “sexual morality” book written by an American Catholic nun on Monday, warning believers to stay away from the tome which justifies masturbation, homosexuality and divorce. Margaret Farley’s 2006 book “Just Love – A Framework for Christian Sexual Ethics” “affirms positions that are in direct contradiction with Catholic teaching in the field of sexual morality,” the Vatican said in a statement. Farley, a member of the Sisters of Mercy and professor emerita at Yale Divinity School, expressed support for a long list of sins in the eyes of the Church. “Masturbation usually does not raise any moral questions at all. It is surely the case that many women have found great good in self-pleasuring… (which) actually serves relationships rather than hindering them,” she wrote. On the issue of homosexuality, the prominent theologian said “same-sex relationships and activities can be justified according to the same sexual ethic as heterosexual relationships and activities” and “should be respected.” She also said not all marriages could last and supported both divorce for people who are irrevocably unhappy together and remarriage with new partners. The Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (CDF), which had been carrying out an investigation into the book, responded with a scathing criticism which tackled each of the issues Farley had raised. It insisted that “masturbation is an intrinsically and gravely disordered action”, homosexual relations are “acts of grave depravity”, and “a marriage cannot be dissolved by any human power or for any reason other than death.” “The Congregation warns the faithful that the book is not in conformity with the teaching of the Church. Consequently it cannot be used as a valid expression of Catholic teaching,” it said. Last week the Leadership Conference of Women Religious (LCWR), the main US association of Catholic nuns, defended itself against CDF accusations of “corporate dissent” over the Church’s teachings, particularly concerning homosexuality. “same-sex relationships and activities can be justified according to the same sexual ethic as heterosexual relationships and activities” and “should NOT be respected.” – only in the Catholic denomination. “masturbation is an intrinsically and gravely disordered action”, homosexual relations are “acts of grave depravity”, and “a marriage cannot be dissolved by any human power or for any reason other than death.” – only in the Catholic denomination. This nun should join the Protestent denomination. Catholicism does not allow all of the above so please respect and don’t bother trying to change the Ctholics. The Vatican should just speak to the nearest highest ranking Protestant personality and ask the nun to declare herself no longer Catholic but protestant instead. No need to slam, just a curt letter to the wayward (by Catholic Church standards) and declaration of excommunication, and at most another to the Protestant faction to take the nun in (and also excommunication of Yale? for future Catholics?) . . . will do. Thats what they did in the past – excommunicate. The Spanish of course would torture the nun (maybe to death) with an Inquisitor, but those days are gone or at very worst apply total excommunication from all Church factions. The Catholic Church will be fewer in following and appear more fundo in these modern times, but while rules are rules, they can only be applied FOR THE CONSENTING members at least – with all false Catholics who do not believe, no matter how high in the hierarchy, no longer valid as members. Just don’t subvert or manipulate, declare beliefs and GTFO of the denomination! Hasidic Jew fired from NYPD over beard length – Posted: June 10, 2012 – 12:19am – Associated Press NEW YORK — An Orthodox Jew who was weeks away from becoming a New York City police officer said he has been kicked out of the police academy for refusing to trim his beard. Former recruit Fishel Litzman of Monsey was fired Friday after multiple confrontations with the department over the length of his whiskers, he told the Daily News (http://nydn.us/LDIivf). Litzman is Hasidic and believes that cutting his beard is forbidden by God. NYPD rules usually require officers to be clean-shaven. The department makes exceptions for beards kept for religious purposes, but even then only allows 1 millimeter worth of growth. “I don’t understand what the problem would be,” Litzman said. NYPD spokesman Paul Browne said the department’s rules are reasonable and Litzman was aware of them when he signed up. Litzman was first cited in January for his unkempt beard. He was a month away from receiving his shield when he was fired. “I always wanted to be a police officer,” said Litzman, a 38-year-old father of five who speaks Hebrew and Yiddish and was once a paramedic. His attorney, Nathan Lewin, said the police department knew when Litzman applied that he would not trim his beard. And now, Lewin said, it’s a case of religious discrimination. “We’re going to be deliberating and considering what the steps are that we’re going to take,” Lewin told The Associated Press on Saturday night. The department hired its first Hasidic officer in 2006 and the force now has at least two dozen Orthodox Jewish officers. Like observant Muslim and Sikh officers, Hasidic officers are allowed to keep their beards for religious reasons but must keep them neat and trimmed. Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer issued a statement Saturday saying he was “deeply troubled” by the firing. “While the NYPD can exercise control over the personal appearance of its force in order to ensure that all officers (are capable of performing their duties) havee a uniform appearance, they are also required to make a reasonable accommodation for religious beliefs,” Stringer said. He urged the police commissioner to reconsider the case. Token show of WH control over (at least NY state) Fed enforceable issues, or real autonomy from any Lobby and instead being America for Ammerica instead of ‘USA is Israel’s’ to order around? Jews incidentally were the remnants of Egypt’s Priesthood, and formed Judea under David in 1026 BC. With ‘Amon-Ra’ rebranded as the ‘YHVH form God’ which later Aramea (Xianity) and then Bedouins (Islam) copied and to this day fight over ‘franchise rights’ in several splinter groups each. Jewry’s Plan To Blackball Russia by Brother Nathanael Kapner, Copyright 2012 TWO ‘MEDIA’ JEWS who enjoy lavish exposure by the Jewish-controlled Press are gritting their teeth hoping to take a bite out of Russia’s President, Vladimir Putin. In a feature OpEd of the Jew-dominated Financial Times, “Time To Blackball Russia’s Autocratic State,” (& Here), Ian Bremmer and Nouriel Roubini—both Jews—just can’t seem to satisfy the anti-Christ rats in their bellies in their malice toward Christian Russia. Bremmer (founder of the Eurasia Group as a means of bringing Jewish hegemony over Eurasia) and Roubini (touted as an innovative economist) are calling for Russia to be “blackballed” and justify their wishful Jewish fantasy with a pack of Jewish lies: “Corruption is endemic in Russia. Graft is a particular problem. Capital flight has reportedly accelerated since Putin’s re-election in March. Russia’s population is falling – because healthcare is poor, socially driven diseases such as alcoholism is rampant, and well-educated Russians are leaving in search of better opportunities elsewhere.” View Entire Story Here & Here. Indeed, a froth-full of lies spew forth from Bremmer’s and Roubini’s Jewish lips. Contrary to their assertions, there is NO demographic crisis in Russia. The population of Russia has increased by one million since early 2011. In the first quarter of 2012, Forbes Magazine responsibly reports, Russia’s population grew by 31,000. Yes, there was a crisis in the 90’s when the drunkard Yeltsin was in the hands of the Jewish oligarchs. But, this crisis has been gradually arrested. BOTH PUTIN AND MEDVEDEV, (after 80 years of Jewish Bolshevik domination), are addressing corruption and graft issues. Rumours of capital flight occurring since Putin’s re-election are exactly that, “rumours.” The rouble under Putin is actually being promoted by investment experts as the least risky investment. And as regards “social diseases” such as alcoholism, Putin has revived the Orthodox Church; closed down all the casinos in Russia; taken over the Jew-owned TV stations and instituted religious programming; introduced Orthodoxy 101 into Russia’s public schools; forbidden “gay parades” — all of which are part of Putin’s efforts to stave off vice and immorality. Moreover, for Bremmer and Roubini to heap praises upon communist China (a hundred times more repressive than Russia) while hell-bent on blackballing Russia for being an “authoritarian” state, one wonders if these Jewish ‘experts’ are simply blinded by their fear of Putin. For there is no man Jewry fears more than Vladimir Putin. RUSSIA FOILS JEWRY’S AGENDA FOR SYRIA BREMMER AND ROUBINI launched their smears against Putin by denouncing Russia’s opposition to a “humanitarian” intervention (Read: Jewish decimation of a sovereign nation) into Syria. But Russia under Putin still has the last word with respect to Syria recommending to UN envoy, Kofi Annan, “an unbiased probe” of the murders in Houla. Both Russia’s foreign minister, Sergei Lavrov, and The Associated Press, stated that the 108 murdered in Houla were killed at close range—execution style—indicating the work of armed terrorists rather than the Syrian army. But do you think this matters to Jewish Senator, Joseph Lieberman, Romney’s favorite pick for State Department head? No. THIS BLOODTHIRSTY Jewish warmonger Lieberman who proposes “arming” the Syrian rebels is now calling for a US military intervention to dismantle Syria into competing militias and warlords to pave the way for a Greater Israel. But Bremmer, Roubini, and their Synagogue buddy, Lieberman, can spout, demand and propose all they want. For with Russia’s arms shipment and anti-terror troops newly arrived in Syria’s Port of Tartus and with Putin’s inauguration of the Nord Stream Pipeline—heating the homes and fueling the industries of an energy-starved Europe—Jewish fantasies to “blackball” Russia are no more than paper dreams. And since it is moral integrity that these Jews are scorning, not only are they on the WRONG side of history but they’re on the RIGHT side of Hell. The Brother Nathanael Foundation, PO Box 1242, Frisco CO 80443 E-mail: brothernathanaelfoundation@yahoo.com Don’t joke Bro Nat. USA semi-worries about China, and China is semi-worried about Russia. All 3 mentioned nations are 100s of times larger than Israel and have militarizable citizens 10s to 1000s of times more than Israel or several times USA. Israel blackballs nothing. Russia and China which at least have sort of a working relationship and could together demand that USA blackballs Israel (which could be overrun by just Iran alone) instead, and USA would do that in a moment because USA is not a religious, much less Judaist state nor does USA really identify with the Middle Eastern culture. Israel should keep promises on 1960s treaties and punish wayward Jewish citizens who have overstepped treaties. Russia and China are somewhat chaotic and sparsely peopled overall even at such population levels, but given a protracted period of peace (say 2-3 decades at most), the 2 countries (even as of now and even if WW3 with nukes was declared) are already the winners in the earth conquest game. As of 26th of June, the illegal settlements are being addressed : http://www.nytimes.com/2012/06/27/world/middleeast/jewish-settlers-begin-evacuation-of-ulpana.html?pagewanted=all Military mom ‘proud’ of breast-feeding in uniform, despite criticism – Brynja Sigurdardottir Military mamas breast-feed with pride. A photo shoot at an Air Force base, intended to raise awareness about breast-feeding, has stirred up controversy. – by Pamela Sitt Is breast-feeding while in uniform conduct unbecoming to a military mom? The debate over nursing in public got a new layer recently, when photos taken on an Air Force base began to circulate online. In the series of tasteful professional photos showing beaming moms as they nurse their kids, one jumps out: the photo of two servicewomen with their uniform shirts unbuttoned and hiked up to breast-feed. “A lot of people are saying it’s a disgrace to the uniform. They’re comparing it to urinating and defecating [while in uniform],” says Crystal Scott, a military spouse who started Mom2Mom in January as a breast-feeding support group for military moms and “anyone related to the base” at Fairchild AFB outside Spokane, Wash. “It’s extremely upsetting. Defecating in public is illegal. Breast-feeding is not.” Live Poll Should military moms breast-feed in uniform, in public? It was Scott’s idea to ask photographer Brynja Sigurdardottir to take photos of real-life breast-feeding moms to create posters for National Breastfeeding Awareness Month in August. One of the moms photographed in uniform, Terran Echegoyen-McCabe, breast-feeds her 10-month-old twin girls on her lunch breaks during drill weekends as a member of the Air National Guard. “I have breast-fed in our lobby, in my car, in the park … and I pump, usually in the locker room,” she says. “I’m proud to be wearing a uniform while breast-feeding. I’m proud of the photo and I hope it encourages other women to know they can breast-feed whether they’re active duty, guard or civilian.” She said she’s surprised by the reaction to the photos, which also feature her friend Christina Luna, because it never occurred to her that breast-feeding in uniform would cause such a stir. “There isn’t a policy saying we can or cannot breast-feed in uniform,” Echegoyen-McCabe says. “I think it’s something that every military mom who is breast-feeding has done. … I think we do need to be able to breast-feed in uniform and be protected.” The Air Force has no policy specifically addressing breast-feeding in uniform, according to Air Force spokesperson Captain Rose Richeson, who added, “Airmen should be mindful of their dress and appearance and present a professional image at all times while in uniform.” Brynja Sigurdardottir Terran Echegoyen-McCabe, left, and Christina Luna breast-feed their children. Terran says she’s proud of the photo, though she didn’t expect it to get such a reaction. Robyn Roche-Paull has been advocating for such a policy since she left the U.S. Navy 15 years ago. Her challenges in breast-feeding her son while on active duty – she recalls her “flaming red face” upon being reprimanded for nursing in a medical waiting room – prompted her to write a book called “Breastfeeding in Combat Boots” as a resource for military moms. She is now an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant who remains close to the military through her active-duty husband and her blog for military moms. “If you follow the comments on my blog, a lot of the comments are that the breast-feeding mothers are the ones who need to be covered up. Nobody sees anything wrong with bottle feeding mothers or fathers,” she says. “Asking mothers to feed a baby by bottle when they are together, simply because they are in uniform, can both affect the mom’s milk supply and her willingness to keep breast-feeding or stay in the military. It’s simply one more barrier they have to face.” The criticism of the photo goes beyond the usual nursing-in-public debate, though. One commenter on Roche-Paull’s website who identified herself as a retired captain in the Marine Corps said she advocated for breast-feeding moms in the military and now, as a civilian, she nurses freely on base. However, she writes: “I would never nurse in uniform. I took my child to the bathroom or a private office when her nanny brought her to me …. Not because I was ashamed of nursing, nor of being a mother. All the guys knew I pumped. The military is not a civilian job. We go to combat and we make life or death decisions, and not just for ourselves but for those we lead. The same reason I would never nurse in uniform is the same reason I do not chew gum, or walk and talk on my cell phone, or even run into the store in my utility uniform. … We are warfighting professionals. Women before us have worked too hard to earn and retain the respect of their male peers. I don’t want my Marines to look at me any other way than as a Marine. When I am asking them to fly into combat with me and do a dangerous mission, I do not want them to have the mental image of a babe at my breast. I want them to only see me as a Marine. Let’s be a realistic folks. We give up many freedoms being in the military…Breastfeeding in front of my fellow Marines was one of them.” Another commenter on the blog replies: “There is N-O-T-H-I-N-G more authoritative than a strong mother standing tall breastfeeding as she barks orders. It’s AWESOME that you’ve worked so hard promote breastfeeding, but I think you might be selling yourself short.” The women in the photo have given some thought to the whole question of military versus maternal duties. To those who believe breast-feeding in uniform undermines the authority of a female officer, Echegoyen-McCabe says: “I guess my thoughts are, if you don’t want to breast-feed in your uniform, you don’t have to. But you should have respect for those who do. … If anything, it should make people look at you as someone who is able to multitask.” What do you think? Sound off on our TODAY Moms Facebook page. Pamela Sitt is a champion multitasker who lives in Seattle. She blogs about motherhood on her website, http://www.clarasmom.com. A thought provoking manly attack on manhood will be countered by a thought provoking feminine defense of feminity. Appropriate clothes for appropriate activity please F-R-E-A-K-S. These are MILITARY work clothes. Much like smokers who forgot the ‘Smoking Jacket’, or Sunday (or whatever day) Best for days of worship. Uniforms for the heat of battle will be weakened by ‘milkmaid’ energies. Please dress appropriate to the activity. Swaddling smocks and maternity robes for nursing or pregnant mothers respectively, or this is just another display of fashion philistinism under guise of feminism, counter-sumptuary feminism to be precise. The use of the word barking also alludes to literal bitches, what that means, I leave to the overripe imagination and self anointed ‘Feminist Inquisitors’ to butcher themselves or the writers over . . . There is a a time and place and context, though of course there should also be no rules on the above if the female soldiers really want to. If they want to be wetnurses so badly, just join the maternity industry or ‘milk producing’ industry instead. The stereotype of ‘hard’ or ‘dry’ butch women in military is as bad a stereotype to promote as a woman nursing in combat uniform. Baby’s little soul would be wondering if mom was going to war or is a MAN. Out of Context. Inappropriate and UNCIVILISED! Next thing we know, American female soldiers will be torturing prisoners with sprayings of colostrum, or did that already happen at Abu Gharaib like places . . . One commentator had the entire view right, though not in the clothes appropriateness or spiritual angle but the commonsense one . . . Let’s be realistic folks. We give up many freedoms being in the military…Breastfeeding in front of my fellow Marines was one of them.” Sex harassment shock: One-third of women have considered quitting work over sexism – Monday, 28 May 2012 13:05 Half of women workers are being harassed on a daily basis, including being the butt of chauvinist jokes and hearing sexist remarks. And 40% have been touched in a way that makes them feel uncomfortable, such as a slap on the bottom or hand on the thigh, a poll of 3,434 female employees said yesterday. It also found 27% have been kissed despite spurning advances, 66% have had inappropriate comments about their clothes from the boss or other males, and 46% react by dressing down for work. Shockingly, 33% have considered quitting and 25% suffered mental and physical health problems as a result. Barrister Rachel Temple, of AdviseMeBarrister.com, said: “We were shocked. “Women have to run a gauntlet of inappropriate workplace behaviour every day. “Hundreds of thousands suffer discrimination of some kind, and half of those we spoke to said they didn’t know where to go for help.” -mirror.co.uk ‘Collared’ workers of any type (later leashed with neck ties at office level – which is what neck ties are – unbeknownst to the conformist masses, (even white collar types are just dogs to the boss owner elite and unsuspecting supporters of the ‘Education-Debt Financier Complex’ – you’ll know who these parasites are by their stand on free tertiary education issues), especially lower ranked or younger ones, and are automatically objectified. The uniform itself another objectifying form (to avoid if one has that luxury). Uniforms have a life of their own (spiritually and symbolically speaking) and combined with collar and tie, you end up with a leashed ‘Dog (or Beast) of War’. Talking to the SUIT, not the person! The soul of humanity in these people though, returns AFTER WORK HOURS, schizophrenia if anything, especially in those who do not identify with or choose their work consciously from sheer lack of choice (any who have the luxury to dissociate from the above nonsense that is ‘life’ are privileged, other issues not withstanding. . . ). Finally women who cannot get married do not gain the same kind of respect as home makers, with home makers WITH hired help especially privileged (domestic abuse issues either of wife or servant, physical, psychological or emotional, notwithstanding) and the concept of ‘mothers’ and ‘homemakers’ being an eternal classic. Sergeant Craig Friesen speaks with an alleged prostitute in Orange County, California. – By Martin Savidge – June 13th, 2012 – 07:47 AM ET Life gets strange hunting traffickers in the U.S. Anaheim, California (CNN) – It feels odd to be in a car sat next to a guy texting a pimp. Even more odd, he’s pretending to be a prostitute. It can all get a little strange in the digital pursuit of human traffickers. I’m sitting in the front seat of an SUV in a part of Orange County, California only the locals see – where the hotels are not chains and have names that cops and criminals alike know well. The “prostitute” beside me is actually Sergeant Craig Friesen. Nearby, either parked or patrolling, are four other vehicles holding the rest of his undercover team. Earlier, we saw a pickup truck in a parking lot across the street approaching several women. The guy wasn’t having much luck – which was too bad since he was on Friesen’s crew. Over the radio the detective relayed that after propositioning one lady she did offer a sex act – telling him he should go F$@# himself. It’s an example of how prostitution can bring down a neighborhood, making it so a woman can’t go to the store without being harassed by some john who’s looking for sex. Despite the area being known for the sex trade, things are slow. Either the team’s cover was known or it was an off day. Every business has them. Then the undercover cop in the pickup gets lucky. He picks up a petite African American girl wearing blue patterned shorts and top. They drive off and we fall in behind trailing at a distance in the noon hour traffic. Out of nowhere a black and white police car pulls in behind the pickup. The lights flash, the “whoop, whoop” sounds and the pickup is pulled over. Friesen guns the SUV, roaring past the scene and into a nearby alley. We get out and head back to what appears to be a busted undercover operation but the sergeant’s not upset – this is all part of the plan. Friesen has the girl take a seat on the curb as the patrol car blocks her from passing traffic. He comes down to her level and begins the most important part of the whole operation – he needs to earn her trust and her confidence. He begins by explaining she’s not under arrest. It’s in keeping with the new attitude of law enforcement that prostitutes are victims, controlled and manipulated by their pimps. They are caught up in the worldwide plague of human trafficking. And they try to help the victims escape. Friesen is trying to get the woman to turn her pimp in. Eventually, Friesen tells her, she will be brought back to police headquarters and placed in the care of social services, who will offer her a place to live and a way off the street so she’s not dependent on the pimp for her needs. The young woman listens but doesn’t buy it. She stays silent. Eventually Friesen gives up and she is taken away. But the sergeant has hung on to her cell phone. He sees texts on the phone that appear to come from her pimp, and he responds as if he is the woman. Which is how I came to be seated in an SUV in Anaheim with a prostitute, um, pretend prostitute. Since her guy thinks she’s gone off with a client, Friesen waits a while, then sends the message that the client left her at a hotel and she needs the pimp to pick her up. He gives the location as a hotel Friesen and his team have already staked out. A reception committee of several armed officers waits inside the hotel, other spotters are nearby, and Friesen and I are parked across the street as he continuously sends messages to the pimp. “He left come get me.” Then there’s a problem. The pimp texts back he wants her to call him which, of course, Friesen can’t do. He quickly improvises and texts back the phone has a problem: “My phone trippin'” and she can only text. He knows it’s a weak ploy… But what else can he do? The fingers still fly and the digital conversation goes on, but it becomes pretty clear the pimp is suspicious. The team continues to wait, but after an hour the pimp’s a no-show and the texts stop coming. The operation is finally called off. Months later, through phone records and surveillance, they finally turn this virtual conversation into a real arrest. But although they think they have the man who they suspect is forcing a young woman into prostitution, the district attorney’s office doesn’t find enough evidence to make charges stick, and the man is let go. The end result is something Friesen and his team have grown to accept. A young woman was pulled off the street and offered the opportunity for help. Sometimes that’s all you can hope for. Some of these prostitutes are there of their own volition, and are not being victimised at all, in fact are USING pimps or madams as sales agents and promoters of sorts, because the prostitute does not like to haggle over prices, or because some patrons lose interest in the prostitute when they talk money (bargaining excessively creates bad feelings) with the sex worker. Also the net effect can be that the pimp or madam gets to be the ‘bad cop’ which improves the quality of sex for some patrons in fact because the prostitute seems so much more ‘good cop’ later on etc.. Communications can be that nuanced, and this is not even the entire gamut of pimp/madam, prostitute, customer relations! The conversation about money for the above example can de-objectify the sex worker and spoil the mood of the hirer. In either case, the adult services industry has many shades of grey, the issue of non-consensual sex workers or sex workers USING pimps and madams rather than being forced by the pimp or madam is the main one enforcement must understand, with sex work per se best given a proper place (a designated street or district) for sexworkers to work from with their promoters and also adult establishments to work from or at certain times suitable for adult activities. Editor’s Note: CNN Freedom Project this week is reporting from the front lines in the fight against sex trafficking – not in the poverty-stricken developing world but in affluent Orange County near Los Angeles, where prostitutes are now treated as trafficking victims rather than criminals. Hookers Wanted: (For Sandra Bullock, Melissa McCarthy film) By Gayle Fee and Laura Raposa with Megan Johnson / The scoop – Friday, June 15, 2012 – Updated 1 day ago Billy Dowd is a man looking for hookers, and he doesn’t care who knows it! He’s also seeking ex-convicts, drug dealers, prison guards and junkies — or anyone who could convincingly portray them on the big screen. That’s because the Scituate casting agent is in charge of hiring extras for the currently untitled “Cop Buddy Comedy” starring Sandra Bullock and Melissa McCarthy that begins shooting in Boston in late July. “They don’t have to be real,” Dowd told the Track. “Although they could be real hookers and drug dealers, I don’t care. I’m looking for realism! I need people who can realistically portray them and there are going to be a lot of those types in this film.” Dowd is also seeking extras to be cops, FBI agents and detectives, prison inmates, “ladies of the evening,” (which wethinks are hookers again) and “energetic and attractive party people.” The comedy, directed by Paul Feig, who also called the shots for Melissa in “Bridesmaids,” is about a high-strung FBI agent, played by Bullock, who teams up with “an unconventional Boston cop.” Hilarity, as you know, will ensue. Dowd is holding a casting call later in the month, but if he doesn’t get what he’s looking for there, he’s been known to go to extremes to find the right people for the roles. “The next step would be to go to groups and organizations where we can find what we’re looking for, you know, like the HOA, Hookers Of America,” he joked. “When I was casting ‘American Gangster’ in Thailand I actually had to go to those bars where the girls dance, you know, and negotiate with the madame, ‘I’m taking seven girls, how much?’ That’s how I go at it and that’s how we did the bar scene with Denzel Washington.” Interested in showing Dowd your stuff? Head for the Boston Teachers Union Hall in Dorchester from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on June 23. Bring a head shot and a pen, because people keep stealing Billy’s. “No kids!” he insisted. “It’s only for people over 18. Don’t bring your kids because I’m not going to look at them!” File Under: He’s Gonna Make You A Star. Inside Track – June 15, 2012: Wealth distribution instead of enrichment of already wealthy actors and actresses! Organic casting and sharing the wealth will be better than fakes. Also some people who might have died of starvation or cold could get to retire in reasonable conditions EVEN as opposed to giving some Joe Publics a chance, the needs basis of the worst off among people is far more serious. Dowd should always consider that when deciding which person gets that lifeline and which person needs or would appreciate that more. A person with a job or another who might die if they didn’t get cast. Have a heart Dowd. How one feels about the underdog when in a position to do something determines a certain whos who . . . heres rough outline of a bill on a state controlled, perhaps contractor privatizable take on pensions for Adult Industry Workers based around a 401K basis : Adult Industry Contract : LC Stature Limit Automatically Imposable (i.e. may not own housing in certain areas) Required work ‘output’ for employees – 8 hour day. 8 ‘contact’ per hour AND 8 ‘full’ service sessions / day / 16+ (or on a biological/psyche test, recommended study material and test completed basis) only – double sessions lower required work time by half – alternatively 1 film per month 2 out of 4 selectable shifts (on condition someone fills in, are selectable and rotatable. And with meal breaks) otherwise if insufficient manpower will be required to follow any roster assignment of 2 shifts. 4 shifts (on a 5.5 day week): 7-11.30, break 1hr 12.30-5, break 1hr Renumeration : insurance/meals/housing (in-house cubicle) provided / all usual holidays apply 100K gratuity for incall contracts for 10 year period LMC limit imposed (this is not to discriminate but rather to discourage prostitution as a major profession) 250K gratuity for incall contracts for 20 year period ULC limit imposed 401K gratuity for incall contracts for 30 year period MLC limit imposed Psyche test needed before specialty contracts : – 21+ only, fetish specials adds 50% fees (601.5K gratuity) or deducts 15 years – 23+ only, extreme fetish specials adds 100% fees (802K gratuity) or deducts 20 years – Virgins only : requirement of genetic and health check, beauty requirements (the issue of psychic imprinting occurs here, damaged goods need not apply . . . ), retires at 23 – Part-Timer (contracter breaktime or absentee fill in persons – see vacancy notice boards at back) – registered outcallers, health checked freelance escorts 1) Clients wishing to use RLD need to undergo health check before being allowed access to RLD. Sex workers wishing to work in RLD also need to undergo health check before being allowed access to RLD. 2) sex workers should not marry unless formally retired Try the below articles which inspired the above response : http://www.chinasmack.com/2012/stories/10-rmb-brothel-sex-workers-comparing-prostitution-to-farming.html Fun is fun, but even sex workers do need to retire, so instead of being all brimstone and hellfire, upper-class/bureaucrat queasy, or too arrogant to engage the supposed ‘low lifers’ who do keep the night scene going and adding a pulse of life to the city, the state needs to step in to ensure adult workers are safe and catered for in old age as any citizen, even as the more fundo or ill regulated of countries need to formalise adult industry districts or zones. Here’s an example of ‘Bureaucrat Queasy’ (well in this case maybe doubles, ‘Muslim Queasy’ as well . . . ) Produce Works That Do Not Violate Morals, Ethics http://www.malaysianmirror.com/media-buzz-detail/6-nation/58097-produce-works-that-do-not-violate-morals-ethics Works are a right of humanity, regardless of the type. I hear Malaysia has been banning lots of books? Is quasi fundo in mindset? Is apartheid in application of law and constitution. Telling free citizens of the world to ‘Produce Works That Do Not Violate Morals, Ethics’, is sooo ‘weaksauce’ undemocratic . . . Obama Pays to Treat Alcoholism in Chinese Hookers : No… actually … Bush Jr did! – edited from original post by Warner Todd Huston (Diary) – Wednesday, May 13th at 5:08AM EDT Our informative friends at CNSNews.com discovered that the National Institute of Alcohol Abuse (NIAA) has been awarded $2.6 million U.S. tax dollars to help train Chinese prostitutes to “drink responsibly on the job.” It’s heartwarming that the NIAA cares so deeply about China’s FSWs (that is university speak for whores — Female Sex Workers), and all, but what of American prostitutes? Dr. Xiaoming Li, the lead leading this program at Wayne State School of Medicine in Detroit, Michigan told CNSNews that his work is “potentially of great importance” as “Previous studies in Asia and Africa and our own data from FSWs [female sex workers] in China suggest that the social norms and institutional policy within commercial sex venues as well as agents overseeing the FSWs (i.e., the ‘gatekeepers’, defined as persons who manage the establishments and/or sex workers) [we call those pimps in the real word – ed] are potentially of great importance in influencing alcohol use and sexual behavior among establishment-based FSWs,” says the NIH grant abstract submitted by Dr. Li to create a better world for those Chinese “FSWs.” “Therefore, in this application, we propose to develop, implement, and evaluate a venue-based alcohol use and HIV risk reduction intervention focusing on both environmental and individual factors among venue-based FSWs in China,” as a “community-based cluster randomized controlled trial,”. Dr. Li is all concerned that alcohol plays an important part of spreading HIV infections in China and he prostitution and sexual work in China and USA can be a safer, more fun career choice. Sex workers in China like to get drunk though that some like being treated like animals does not have any relation to drinking. Some do get drunk as they are not really interested in the work. Both the purveyor and the customer and should have awareness of alcoholism in women cast in the role of a commodity, so that a sex workers will be worth more than the momentary sexual release that she can facilitate. Cleverly Obama becomes the president of Chinese hookers . . . though a proper pension and properly assigned space as earlier suggested for sex work should be formalized. All sorts of new and interesting powers in the penumbra of the Constitution, are being found that invariably bring USA and China closer together, even in something as simple as education about alcohol for sex workers. The grant went out in November 2007 so, Obama is not responsible for this funding. Bush is. So at least one thing was done to better relations during the Bush warmonger years. Consideration to issues asian prostitutes face. Dr. Li Xiaoming is aware enough that with this sort of acceptable fringe issue, in sufficient quantity, nations can become closer though not obviously so. Bush an extreme strategist? Can’t imagine . . . maybe some obscure bureau did the above on their own, kuudos in either case . . . Beedi industry’s child workers trapped in economic slavery – June 11th, 2012 06:18 PM ET Editor’s note: Davinder Kumar is an award-winning development journalist who works for children’s rights organization Plan International. Five-year-old Aliya thinks it is a game she must master quickly to be a winner. From the time she wakes up, until she goes to bed, Aliya watches her mother and all the girls and women in her neighborhood consumed in a frantic race: Making beedis – traditional hand-rolled Indian cigarettes. To create each beedi, the maker painstakingly places tobacco inside a dried leaf sourced from a local ebony tree; tightly rolls and secures it with a thread; and then closes the tips using a sharp knife. For anything between 10 and 14 hours, regardless of how long it takes, Aliya’s mother and others must all roll at least 1,000 beedis to earn a paltry sum of less than $2 a day, paid by the middleman. The beedi manufacturers, however, make billions of dollars. The cigarettes are taken to the warehouses of large manufacturers, where they are packaged before being sold in the market for a much higher price. Beedis are so popular that they make for nearly half of India’s entire tobacco market. but, behind the country’s unorganized domestic tobacco sector lie invisible millions trapped in modern day economic slavery. Assembly line of workers In Aliya’s town of Kadiri in Andhra Pradesh alone, hundreds of families have for generations relied on beedi rolling as their only means of survival. The labyrinthine, congested lanes of Kadiri slums are home to an assembly line of humans functioning like robots: Young girls and women alike can be seen rolling cigarettes in groups out in the open. Some sway, some rock back and forth appearing entranced, while others have developed odd muscular motions as they push their work speed to the edge of human limits. For most, if they do not roll enough beedis every day there simply will not be food on the table. “The pressure to keep up with the speed and meet the target is so intense that many skip their meals and even avoid drinking water so they do not need to go to the toilet,” says Shanu, a community volunteer. Almost all beedi workers in Kadiri, like the other beedi manufacturing pockets in India, are female and a large of number of them young girls. Aliya has already started her lessons early and is practising rolling beedis using cuttings of plain paper. “I want to roll beedis and give money to my mother,” she says. A study released nearly three years ago estimated a scandalous number of over 1.7 million children are working in India’s beedi rolling industry. Children are knowingly engaged by manufacturers due to belief that children’s nimble fingers are more adept at rolling cigarettes. Hazardous work Under Indian law, beedi rolling is defined as hazardous work, but a loophole means children who help their parents in their work fall outside the legal framework. “Formally, it is the women who take on the orders from the contractors,” says Anita Kumar of Plan India. “However, behind the scenes, the pressures these women face in terms of delivering on huge volumes, invariably children, mainly girls, get pulled into this to support their families in beedi rolling.” As part of its global “Because I am a Girl” campaign, children’s rights organization Plan International has started a program focused on girl child labor in Andhra Pradesh, including girls involved in beedi making. The project will collectively impact 1,500 girls over 3 years. Children trapped in beedi work will need a rescue effort on a much larger scale. “We are aiming to create a model by working with communities and the local government structures ensuring that children are prevented from falling into this cycle of labor,” says Kumar. From unhealthy living conditions to exploitative wages, slave-like working conditions and severe health consequences – the situation of beedi workers involves violation of their fundamental rights and freedoms on many levels. The majority of girls are pulled out of education by the time they complete primary school to support their families’ income. The youngest of four siblings, 11-year-old Salma dropped out of school last year when she had completed grade 4. “I wanted to continue going to school but we are very poor and have been struggling to pay the rent,” she says as she struggles to draw breath. Trapped in economic slavery Salma is suffering from jaundice and is so frail she can barely sit up straight. Yet, she is tasked with rolling up to 1,500 beedis a day to support her family. Squatting on the floor, hunched, she rolls cigarettes for over 12 hours every day and still earns just over two dollars. In addition to jaundice, Salma has also developed a ringworm infection on her wrist, common in the area due to poor hygiene and sanitation. She is in dire need of medical attention but visiting local hospital means a day off work due to long queues and a day’s wages to pay for transport – her parents cannot afford either. The health impact on beedi workers is visible on all age groups. Tuberculosis, asthma, body pain and postural problems related with hips and joints are most common. Continuous beedi rolling leads to absorption of high doses of nicotine directly through skin. The skin on the children’s fingertips begins to thin progressively, and by the time they reach their 40s they cannot roll cigarettes any more. Mahboobjaan, a mother of three girls, is in her mid-30s and is already losing sensation in her hands. ”My hands often swell up. I don’t know what I will do if I can’t roll beedi anymore,” she says. The worst thing for beedi workers is the feeling that there is no protection, no welfare, no state support. They vote but have no power or effective representation. For all development indicators they remain at the bottom of the ladder all their lives. And among them, the girls suffer the most. Throughout their life cycle their basic rights are violated; as children, as child brides, as young mothers, they continue to fight for survival with extreme labour and economic slavery. In summer as the temperatures reach 45 degrees Celsius, the streets of Kadiri are engulfed in a stifling cloud of tobacco dust. Infants play among heaps of tobacco leaves. Covered in a pool of sweat, young girls roll beedis with their eyes transfixed on their tobacco tray. Older women, who can no longer roll beedis themselves, help by trimming the ebony leaves. The work continues till late in the night just to secure the next day’s meal and to keep a roof above the workers’ heads. The next morning, and for almost every morning for the rest of their lives, it is exactly the same story: The breathless race to 1,000 starts all over again with a single beedi. [The children’s names have been changed]. Wealth distribution issues here. Suggest that a ‘Wealth Distribution for Welfare Deductible‘ is imposed on the distribution network at each stage of the supply chain at a level (maybe 10%-30% levies per stage of supply chain to be released after a set period? How many ruppees is that over a lifetime or per month to allow retirement at comfortable middle class by age 55 for example?) to ensure the professional beedi makers have a reasonable quality of life. If beedi making conditions are too harsh or labour intense, the industry will get a bad reputation and the workers will try to leave the industry, with continuity of the industry dependent on India’s poverty and by extension the sub-conscious desire of beedi smokers to want cheeper bidis and thus subconsciously keep India poor in a vicious psychic, psychological undercurrent that keeps India from raising the status of India’s poorest. Jesse ‘The Mind’ Ventura On Politics, Porsches And Paddleboards – 6/13/2012 @ 5:41PM Call him Jesse “The Mind” or Jesse “The Body” Ventura, the former pro-wrestler and Minnesota governor talks to me about his latest book, “DemoCRIPS and ReBLOODicans”, crazy tax policies, and why he’s more Occupy than Tea Party. Monday afternoon, two p.m. in Minneapolis, three p.m. in New York. On the phone with Jesse Ventura. Kenneth Rapoza: I’d recognize that voice anywhere. Jesse Ventura: [chuckles, signature Jesse] It’s a hard one to miss. Good to talk with you today, Ken. KR: This morning on The Takeaway, Joseph Stiglitz was talking about income inequality and the growing inequality of opportunity in the U.S. You’re a Vietnam vet. Are we more divided now than we were then, at least politically speaking? JV: We were more divided then. The true turning point as a nation was when the National Guard shot four students dead at Kent State. We’re divided, but they haven’t shot anybody since. KR: Would you send your kids to war today? JV: I’d be a conscientious objector. You’re going to war for corporations, not for people. Smedley Butler, a general in the Marine Corp., said that about our interventions in Central America. It’s a very well known critique about U.S. wars. KR: I’ve heard it many times. But there’s a different kind of division now, not just politically right and left. We’re seeing a class division creep in. The rich really are getting richer — way richer in fact — and the middle class are definitely getting poorer. I was surprised to see, but you write a lot about that in your book. You’re a one percenter. What’s it all look like to you in Minnesota? JV: Well, for one, our property values have dropped by over 20% but my property taxes haven’t. Why is it that our homes are worth less and middle class Minnesotans are worth less but are property taxes aren’t coming down? KR: I don’t know. You tell me. You were the governor. JV: Not anymore. And I don’t miss it one bit. That’s all policy decisions at the state level. I gave taxes back when I was governor. They can’t even balance their budget and its state law to do so. You know where our taxes go? KR: Let me guess. JV: Well, a lot of it went to bailout out banks and the rich. During the last Great Recession or whatever you want to call it, I’ll have to quote the Wall Street protesters, the 99 percent lost money. But the rich made money. They got wealthier thanks to policies that helped them get wealthier. They didn’t get wealthier because they are smart investors. KR: You’re right about that. Even Citi says so. JV: You want to hear something funny about taxes? KR: Is that a joke, like a Polish man walks into a bar? JV: No. But it’s laughable. I’m learning to paddleboard. In Minnesota you need to get a license to paddleboard because the board is over nine feet long. So you have to pay a fee. And you have to wear a life jacket. KR: Please tell me Jesse “The Body” isn’t wearing a life jacket on a paddle board. JV: If I showed up with a life jacket to protect me from the wake of a boat that’s maybe a foot high I’d be laughed out of the lake. This is the stuff politicians can agree on. These are the kinds of policies we the people get. KR: They must have hated you in Minnesota. An independent who doesn’t have to raise money because getting publicity for you isn’t a problem. JV: I’m one of the few people who actually made money as governor. I spent less money to get elected than I earned. Everyone else pays a million dollars to get paid a hundred and twenty grand. When I was governor, I was up against both parties and they vetoed me all the time. On that front they were united. They vetoed my balanced budget because they thought it would make my re-election bid less likely for the voters so they could turn to one of the two gangs again. But I didn’t run. That surprised them. And now they have around a $5 billion deficit, worse than Wisconsin. KR: What do you think about [Wisc. governor] Scott Walker? JV: I think he beat [Tom] Barrett because he had more money. Whoever gets the most bribe many can put the ads on TV. And now with Citizens United and SuperPACs unleashed, these groups can lie about their favorite candidate and the politician isn’t held responsible for the content. I think every politician should wear a NASCAR race suit at this point. KR: Why’s that? JV: You know how the NASCAR race suits all have the ads stitched on them from the driver’s sponsors? Politicians should wear that too so we can see who owns them. It’s laughable what we have turned our elections into today, where bribery is okay. We should only put candidates names on the ballot without their party affiliation so people will have to actually know the candidate. They make it too easy today. You don’t have to know the candidate’s name. You just go in and vote for a party. KR: What do you think of Karl Rove? Guy’s like the king of secret funding operations. JV: I think he’s a chicken hawk. He leads from the rear, not from the front. Likes to send kids to war. Know how to tell if a war is justified? If you’re willing to send your kids to fight it. If you’re only willing to send someone else’s it’s not justified. I’m 60 years old now and we have been at war somewhere half of my adult life, and I’m not even including the war on drugs. KR: Should we legalize drugs? JV: Yes. The Beatles wrote the greatest album in history [Sgt. Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band] high on LSD. Anna Nicole Smith died by overdosing on prescription drugs from big pharmaceutical companies. I’m not saying you legalize crack. Why not legalize marijuana. You can make biodiesel from it, and start using corn for food instead of ethanol. KR: I was impressed with all your foot notes in the book. How long did it take you to write this thing? JV: Four months in Mexico. I have a house down there in Baja. It’s where I can concentrate. No TV. Totally off the grid. I’m solar powered. KR: Wow! I didn’t know that Jesse “The Body” was a pot smoking latte liberal. You probably drive a Prius. JV: No, I drive a twin turbo Porsche 450 horse power all wheel drive six speed. I don’t even have a cell phone because when you’re driving that thing you want to concentrate on the ride. KR: Okay. What about this: Tea Party or Occupy Wall Street? JV: Occupy Wall Street definitely. KR: Why? JV: Tea Party is owned by the Koch brothers. The grassroots supporters of the Tea Party will never get what they want, unless they think lower corporate taxes and oligarchy are the answers to their prayers. Occupy is still marginally independent. I attended a Minnesota Occupy rally five different times. I handed out hand warmers. At the time, we were cheering on the Arab Spring protesters and pepper spraying our own protesters at home. Park ordinance didn’t allow them to even have generators at night to keep them warm. But there was one generator that was allowed to run, and that was the one that was powering the surveillance camera that was keeping an eye on them. KR: Occupy seems to be weakening. They don’t have the monied interests behind them. Is the Tea Party relevant anymore? JV: I think they are still relevant. They got a lot of people elected, but they are not the answer.[For the answers, go buy his book.] KR: What’s your political future? JV: None. People ask me to run again. I’d rather be surfing in Mexico for four to five months a year. KR: That sounds much better. I think every ex-President would agree with that. Let’s change the subject. What happened with “Conspiracy Theory”? [Jesse’s show on TruTV.] JV: Finished eight episodes in November but it ain’t on. No start date. It’s still sitting there in production at TruTV. I’ll be surprised if they even put them on. This would have been our third season. KR: Is there a conspiracy against Jesse Ventura? JV: I don’t know. KR: I have to say that if someone ever told me at 15 that I would one day be talking to Jesse “The Body” Ventura, I wouldn’t believe it. Wrestlemania was a show! JV: I did six of ‘em. Man, that was a long time ago. KR: [starts to crack up with childhood memories] I remember one Wrestlemania, you’re on the floor giving play by play with Bobby “the Brain” Heenon and there’s “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan with his two-by-four in the air, his tongue hanging out, looking like a mess [Jesse starts to remember, starts to laugh] and you’re like, ‘Look at that guy, just look at that snot hanging out of his nose.’ The way you emphasized the word ‘snot’. It was hilarious to every teenage and tweenage boy in America. Me and my brother are still talking about it and we’re in our thirties. JV: Vince McMahon [the brains behind the World Wrestling Federation, as if any reader didn’t know that] was the P.T. Barnum of the century. Hey, one time I went back stage and was telling Koko B. Ware the stuff I was going to say about him during the show. I did that all the time so the wrestlers wouldn’t get upset. We were all friends, ya know. So I say on the air that the B in his name stood for Buckwheat, because he was Buckwheat’s grandson. And I got in trouble for that. That was the first time I was really ever censored for saying something like that and ironically, Eddie Murphy was doing his Buckwheat character on Saturday Night Live and Buckwheat was on the earliest show to ever showcase a racially diverse neighborhood, but it came from a white guy so it was banned and I was scolded for it. KR: Oh well, live and learn. JV: I hope Americans learn. I’ve been telling them this about their government for the past 10 years. KR: You’re not alone. I think it’s clicking in now. JV: Yeah. I think you’re right. If the state of Minnesota having a 5 billion debt has them squealing over there like little girls, just think how a country a fraction the size like Malaysia with so many times the population has over half a trillion in debt would do. USA : 9.830,000 million square kilometers (debt 15 Trillion) 30 times more debt with a population/land ratio 10 times less crowded (larger distributable land base which politicians have selfishly not effected) Malaysia : 0.329,758 million square kilometers (debt 0.5 Trillion) 30 times less debt but 30 times smaller with a population/land ratio 3 times more crowded (smaller distributable land base which politicians have selfishly not effected) Malaysia is as deep in debt and doing far worse than USA by a size to population ratio consideration, and guess who the 1% ters are? Run for election as president Jesse. Somehow the people around the world are too stupid or afraid to consider private candidacy, these hegelian dialectic (http://dont-tread-on.me/?tag=hegelian-dialectic) idiots have made independent thought impossible and since you are well placed with sufrficient cash to at least make the attempt through an internet campaign at least, how about giving 3rds Force a REAL voice in USA to inspire the rest of the pond scum nepotist oligarch, plutocrat term limitless politician run world? Obama was a great image man, but I think policy wise the whole Obama in White House thing not really working . . . and if Romney comes into power the collusion will be unbelievable much like how a mere Mayor (looks TERM LIMITLESS to me . . . ), Mayor Bloomberg is worth 20 billion . . . (thats 50,000 401Ks for 1 person, while homeless and starving abound in NY . . . ) Finally get USA to implement TERM LIMITS on all levels of government, I don’t think there is a need to explain why, someone has to set an example against cults of personality and against seat hogging oligarchs to the 3rd World. This one is inspired by the Egyptian ‘quandry’ over lack of choices in June 2012. Don’t complain about lack of choice, and MAKE CHOICES. Just run for candidacy against the bad candidates. Can Israel Afford a Moral Foreign Policy? – Jonathan S. Tobin 06.15.2012 – 4:31 PM Earlier this week, I noted the fact that while President Obama has chosen not to visit Israel since taking office even when visiting the Middle East, Russia’s Vladimir Putin will be making his second trip to the Jewish state this month. The fact that Obama is still so resentful of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that he couldn’t bring himself to go to Jerusalem even when it would clearly be in his political interests to do so, while Putin thinks it is good politics to go there, struck me as interesting. But our friends at the Forward have a very different take on the story. In an editorial published this week, they think it is wrong for Israel to receive Putin and urge it to cancel the visit. In assessing this position, we need to start by saying this is the sort of editorial that explains why there is a difference between government and journalism. In seizing the moral high ground on Putin, the Forward editorialist is taking a stand that no Israeli government, no matter how righteous or devoted to the cause of human rights in Russia, Syria and Iran it might be, can possibly take. Israel has enough enemies without picking a fight with Putin even the United States would be wary of starting. This is the sort of unrealistic moral preening that we journalists love to indulge in. There is also the fact that the Forward, whose idolatry of Barack Obama seems to be boundless, has been noticeably quiet in expressing criticism of the administration’s desire for a “reset” with Putin or his appeasement of Russia on a number of different fronts. But having said that, I’m prepared to concede the editorial has a point, especially with regard to the egregious praise of Putin on the part of Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman, and that the question of how moral Israel’s foreign policy should be is not solely a matter for idle journalistic posturing. Different gist when I heard that. And Israel is making way too much fuss and has not kept the UN bargain to letter (at least till 26th June 2012, see article http://www.nytimes.com/2012/06/27/world/middleeast/jewish-settlers-begin-evacuation-of-ulpana.html?pagewanted=all) to be considered a writer of moral foreign policy. USA’s reins are slipping here, and if USA cannot clean up in the Middle East, there is no way USA can take on Russia, conventionally at any rate. They will be using all kinds of unpleasant wave form or satellite brain frying or partial access weather tech they have now with a M.A.D. scenario occuring immensely harmful to everyone. Iran alone can overrun Israel. And Israel probably would be the very nation that destroys the planet and the human race by firing nukes and irradiating everything in a panic when overrun. Iran has stated they won’t use nukes knowing they can overrun Israel, but Israel being no match for Iran conventionally, will have to drag USA and Russia into a 3rd World War if not fire those Israeli nukes and irradiate everything. The Middle East will wilt away in the first year, the rest of the world in less than 10, and this is on top of what Fukushima already released at a magnitude 100s of times worse than Chernobyl . . . The Israeli citizens not in Israel’s parliament had better vote very wisely with the possibility of the M.A.D. scenario in mind. In fact if I were USA or even Russia, I’d start assassinating any nuke trigger happy types in either Israel or Iran. The radioactivity of the new Uranium Nukes they have will make Hiroshima H-bomb and Nagsaki H-bomb look like toys and can kill everything on the planet (unless specifically H-Bombs and NEVER anything heavier are used ONLY) on a scale 100s of times worse than Chernobyl. That is what the Uranium Nukes are like. Just 1 Uranium Nuke is enough to finish off most weaker ecosystems and destroy all neighbouring areas for 1000s of miles in radius. Does that not justify ending use of nukes larger than H-Bombs? Use of conventionals is acceptable but nukes, especially Uranium nukes, is just end game for everything on the planet. Does the EU or AU or USA know this, even as they are stuck in the Middle East? Begin that initiative to ban ALL nuclear weapons.	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4178
__label__cc	0.748365	0.251635	Posts Tagged ‘vexatious treatment of students’ abuse by schools, Malaysia, spiritual theory, spirituality, textbook, vexatious treatment of students Textbooks taken back before SPM – The Star Paper – 13th November 2011 In Abuse of Power, children, Education, education as a spiritual weapon, Malaysia, soul, soul binding, soul theft, spiritual abuse, spirituality on January 16, 2012 at 10:21 am Students from a school in Bandar Sri Damansara, Selangor who will be sitting for the SPM (Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia) examination, which starts tomorrow, have been without their textbooks for over two weeks. The students were required to return their textbooks a fortnight ago as the school authorities had claimed that the teachers would be too busy during the exam to ensure the return of the books. As a parent, I am upset with the school for demanding the return of the books as surely students would need to revise and look up facts for a major public exam like the SPM. The reason given for the return of the textbooks was, to say the least, unreasonable and self-centred. Obviously, the schools want to get back the books early so that there will be less paperwork. Teachers find this procedure convenient for them. Now my son has to surf the Internet for vital information as he cannot consult his textbooks which to him and fellow students are badly needed either for reference or revision. Is the measure taken merely for the convenience of schools at a time when teachers are in the holiday mood? Is it a policy made by schools or is it a directive from the Education Ministry? All told, it is a silly, irrational step. One does not have to be a genius to determine that textbooks can be returned a few days before the school holiday starts or during the week of the exam. Why can’t this be done in the interests of students and not for the convenience of schools or the Ministry which will probably want to know the status of the returned textbooks? We keep talking about Vision 2020, but we do not seem to have the mentality to move forward. The Education Ministry seems to be making decisions without reflecting over the consequences. – Kenny This case is quite similar to the below : 2 Articles On Possible Mass Attempts on Theft of Soul/Spirit (late May 2011) Here is how soul theft works IF this was an attempt. The taking back of the textbook attempts to steal the Chakra of Mind which considers the textbook as part of itself. This chakra of the student follows the textbook and gets STOLEN by the Ministry of Education then given to mediocre students of ‘a certain race’. That is why you have students of a tender or at least fairly young age committing suicide out of the soul loss, the soul has followed the original textbook and since mentally the child understands that their future depends on education and by extension the textbook – when the texbook is traken away their soul is also taken with the textbook, or in Foxconn’s case workers who are purposely overworked that their soul becomes tied up in the machinery at the factory and becomes so fearful the physical form is sacrificed so that the soul can escape. If not simply neurotech actions from satellite cell tech ordering the suicides of course. The stronger ones return to the original owners on their own to their owners, the weaker ones do not. In extreme cases, death can result. Buy your own textbooks or photostat the textbook they give you and study from that photostated version instead. End of story and note that the powers used here are not of Islam but the older Malay Animism, which should be revered for holy purposes instead of being used to deprive others of their future via taking their Mind Chakra (concentration). The alternative version is that neurotech will be used under cover of false flag spiritualism. Take your pick but photostatting the textbook and exclusively using that photostat version (entirely leaving the ‘original’ textbook alone), is the best way to avoid the nuisance actions in all instances. Meanwhile do remember to vote for candidates that believe in :	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4179
__label__cc	0.709362	0.290638	ECO1202SQN Eco Air \| ECO1202SQN \| Operating instructions \| Eco Air ECO1202SQN Operating instructions R410A SPLIT SERIES FIXED SPEED QUICK COUPLING ECO902SQN R ead This Manual Inside you will find many helpful hints on how to use and maintain your air conditioner properly. Just a little preventative care on your part can save you a great deal of time and money over the life of your air conditioner. You'll find many answers to common problems in the chart of troubleshooting tips. Review the chart of Troubleshooting Tips before calling your service engineer. BS PLUG WIRING (For models up to 12000 Btu) Wiring Instructions: Should it be necessary to change the plug please note the wires in the mains lead are coloured in accordance with the following code : BLUE - NEUTRAL BROWN LIVE GREEN AND YELLOW - EARTH As the colours of the wires in the mains lead of this appliance may not correspond with the coloured markings identifying the terminals in your plug, proceed as follows: The BLUE wire is the NEUTRAL and must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter N or coloured BLACK. The BROWN wire is the LIVE and must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter L or coloured RED. The GREEN/YELLOW is the EARTH and must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter E or or coloured GREEN OR GREEN/YELLOW. Always ensure that the cord grip is positioned and fastened correctly. If a 13A (BS 1363) fused plug is used it must be fitted with a 13A fuse. If in doubt consult a qualified electrician. Wiring for a 13 Amp Plug (BS1363) Please note. The Earth Terminal is marked with the letter E or Symbol. Disposal........................................................................................................................................2 Warning ........................................................................................................................................3 Caution .........................................................................................................................................4 OPERATIING INSTRUCTIONS Parts names ........... .....................................................................................................................5 Operating temperature................................................................................................................6 Manual operation ....................................................................................................................6 Airflow direction control ...........................................................................................................7 How the air conditioner works .................................................................................................8 Care and maintenance .................................................................................................................9 OPERATION TIPS Operation tips ............ ................................................................................................................11 Troubleshooting tips ...................................................................................................................13 Contact an authorised service technician for repair or maintenance of this unit. Contact the installer for installation of this unit. The air conditioner is not intended for use by young children or invalids without supervision. Young children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with the air conditioner. If the power cord is to be replaced, replacement work shall be performed by authorised personnel Installation work must be performed in accordance with the national wiring standards by authorised personnel only. When using this air conditioner in the European countries, the follow information must be followed: DISPOSAL: Do not dispose this product as unsorted waste. It is prohibited to dispose of this appliance in domestic household waste. For disposal, : A) Contact your local council for disposal. B) The manufacture will take back the old appliance for disposal when you replace with a new product. C) Old products contain valuable resources, which should be recycled as scrap Wild disposal of waste in forests and landscapes endangers your health when hazardous substances leak into the ground-water and find their way into the food chain. To prevent injury to the user or other people and property damage, the following instructions must be followed. Incorrect operation may cause harm or damage. The seriousness is classified by the following indications. Failure to follow these instructions exactly, can cause property damage, death or serious injury. This symbol indicates the possibility of injury or damage to property. Meanings of symbols used in this manual are as shown below. Never do this. Always do this. Connect with the power properly. Do not operate or stop the unit by switching on or off the power. Do not damage or use an unspecified power cord. Otherwise, it may cause electric shock or fire due to excess heat It may cause electric shock or fire due to heat generation. It may cause electric shock or fire. Do not modify power cord length or share the outlet with other appliances It may cause electric shock or fire due to heat generation. Always ensure effective earthing. No earthing may cause electric shock. Disconnect the power if strange sounds, smell, or smoke comes from it. It may cause fire and electric Use the correctly rated breaker or fuse. There is risk of fire or electric Do not operate with wet hands or in damp Do not direct airflow at room occupants only. It may cause electric shock. Do not allow water to run into electric parts. It may cause failure of machine or electric shock. Do not drink water drained from air conditioner. It contains contaminants and could make you sick. Do not use the power cord close to heating appliances. This could damage your health. Always install circuit breaker and a dedicated power circuit. No installation may cause fire and electric shock. Do not open the unit during operation. Do not use the power cord near flammable gas or combustibles, such as gasoline, benzene, thinner, etc. It may cause an explosion or fire. Ventilate room before operating air conditioner if there is a gas leakage from another appliance. Do not disassemble or modify unit. It may cause explosion, fire and, burns. It may cause failure and electric shock. When the air filter is to be removed, do not touch the metal parts of the unit. Do not clean the air conditioner with water. It may cause an injury. Water may enter the unit and degrade the insulation. It may cause an electric shock. An oxygen shortage may occur. When the unit is to be cleaned, switch off, and turn off the circuit breaker. Do not put a pet or house plant where it will be exposed to direct air flow. Do not use for special purposes. Do not clean unit when power is on as it may cause fire and electric shock, it may cause an injury. This could injure the pet or Do not use this air conditioner to preserve precision devices, food, pets, plants, and art objects. It may cause deterioration of quality, etc. Turn off the main power switch when not using the unit for a long time. Stop operation and close the window in storm or hurricane. Operation with windows opened may cause wetting of indoor and soaking of household furniture. Do not use strong detergent such as wax or thinner. Use a soft cloth for cleaning. Ensure that the installation bracket of the outdoor appliance is not damaged due to prolonged exposure. Always insert the filters securely. Clean filter once every two weeks. Operation without filters may cause failure. If bracket is damaged, there is concern of damage due to falling of unit. Use caution when unpacking and installing. Sharp edges could cause injury. There is danger of fire or electric shock. Ventilate the room well when used together with a stove, etc. It may cause failure of product or fire. appliance or accident. Appearance may be deteriorated due to change of product color or scratching of its surface. Do not place heavy object on the power cord and take care so that the cord is not compressed. Do not place obstacles around air-inlets or inside of air-outlet. If water enters the unit, turn the unit off and disconnect the power , contact a qualified service technician. Parts names Indoor unit ERAT Outdoor unit ON/O DIRECAIR Air outlet Horizontal air flow grille Vertical air flow louver Display panel R ON DISPL R OFF 9. Connecting pipe, drain hose 10. Air inlet (side and rear) 11. Air outlet All the pictures in this manual are for illustration purpose only. Your air conditioner may be slightly different. 1 AUTO indicator: Indicator Lights on Display panel This indicator illuminates when the air conditioner is in AUTO operation. 2 DEFROST Indicator The display panel on the indoor unit would look like one of the following: (For cooling& heating model only): conditioner starts defrosting automatically or when the warm air control feature is activated in heating operation. 3 DIGITAL DISPLAY: Displays the current setting temperature when the air conditioner is in operation. 4 OPERATION indicator: The indicator flashes once every second after power is on and illuminates when the air conditioner is in operation. 5 TIMER indicator: The indicator illuminates when TIMER is set ON/OFF. For cooling only models(>21000Btu/h unit), 2 indicator light is FAN ONLY. NOTE: This manual does not include Remote Controller Operations, which is provided Cooling operation >17 C 18 C• Heating operation Drying operation <30 C -15 C• 43 C:(For the models with low temperature cooling system) 11 C• 4 3 C -7 C• 21 C ~52 C: (For 21 C ~52 C: (For special tropical special tropical models ) models ) 1. If air conditioner is used outside of the above conditions, certain safety protection features may come into operation and cause the unit to function abnormally. 2. If the air conditioner operates greater than 80% RH, the surface of the air conditioner may attract condensation. Set the vertical air flow louver to its maximum angle (vertically to the floor), and set on HIGH fan mode. 3. Optimum performance will be achieved within these operating temperature. Manul operation can be used temporarily in case the remote controller is disabled or for maintenance purposes. Open and lift the front panel up to an angle until it remains fixed with a clicking sound. Push the button until the AUTO indicator is lit, the unit will work in forced AUTO mode at a default setting temperature of 24 ). Close the panel firmly to its original Manual control Once you push the manual button, the operation mode is shifted in an order as: AUTO, COOL, OFF. This is used for testing purposes only. To restore the remote controller operation, use the remote controller directly. AUTO/COOL Airflow direction control Adjust the air flow direction as appropriate to maximise comfort and even room temperatures. Adjust the horizontal louver using the remote Adjust the vertical louver manually. To set the vertical air flow(Up--Down) direction Perform this function whilst the unit is in operation using the remote controller.The horizontal louver moves at a 6O angle each time the AIR DIRECTION button is pressed. Please refer to the REMOTE CONTROLLER ILLUSTRATION for details. To set the horizontal air flow direction (left - right) Adjust the vertical louver manually using the lever on the left or right side of the vertical louver arm (Depending on model). Take care not to trap your fingers on the fan, horizontal louver or to damage vertical louvers. When the air conditioner is in operational and the horizontal louver is in a specific position, move the lever at left (or right, depending on model) end of the air outlet to the desired position. ! CAUTION The SWING and AIR DIRECTION button will be disabled when the air conditioner is not in operation(including when the TIMER ON is set). Do not operate the air conditioner for long periods with the air flow direction set downward in cooling or dry mode. Otherwise, condensation may occur on the surface of the horizontal louver causing moisture to drop on to the floor or on furnishings. Do not move the horizontal louver manually. Always use the SWING or AIR DIRECTION button. If you move this louver manually, it may malfunction during operation. If the louver malfunctions, stop the air conditioner once and restart it. When the air conditioner is started immediately after it was stopped, the horizontal louver might not move for approximately 10 seconds. Open angle of the horizontal louver should not be set too small, as COOLING or HEATING performance may be impaired due to too restricted air flow area. Do not operate unit with horizontal louver in closed position. When the air conditioner is connected to power (initial power), the horizontal louver may generate a sound for 10 seconds, this is a normal operation. How the air conditioner works SLEEP operation When you push SLEEP button on remote controller during cooling or heating, or AUTO operation, the air conditioner will automatically increase (cooling) or decrease (heating) 1 per hour. AUTO operation When you set the air conditioner in AUTO mode, it will automatically select cooling, heating(cooling/heating models only), or fan only operation depending on what temperature you have selected and the room temperature. The air conditioner will control room temperature automatically round the temperature point set by you. During very hot or cold weather, you should select either the COOL or HEAT modes for additional comfort. 7 hours timer off DRYING operation Fan only Cooling set temperature The set temperature will be steady within 2 hours. And the air conditioner will be timer off in 7 hours. The fan speed will be automatically controlled. This feature maintains the most comfortable temperature, is very quiet and saves energy. The dry mode will automatically select the hehumidifying operation based on the difference between the set temperature and the actual room temperature. The temperature is regulated while dehumidifying by repeating turning on and off of the cooling operation or fan only. The fan speed indicator will display AUTO and low speed will be used. Optimal operation To achieve optimal performance, please note the following: Adjust the air flow direction correctly so that it is not directed on people. Adjust the temperature to achieve the highest comfort level. Do not adjust the unit to excessive temperature levels. Close doors and windows on COOL or HEAT modes, or performance may be reduced. Use TIMER ON button on the remote controller to select a time you want to start your air conditioner. Do not put any object near air inlet or air outlet, as the efficiency of the air conditioner may be reduced and the air conditioner may stop running. Clean the air filter periodically, otherwise cooling or heating performance may be reduced. Do not operate unit with horizontal louvre in closed position. Cleaning the Grille, Case and Remote Controller Turn the system off before cleaning. To clean, wipe with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use bleach or abrasives. NOTE: Supply power must be disconnectd before cleaning the indoor unit. A cloth dampened with cold water may be used on the indoor unit if it is very dirty. Then wipe it with a dry cloth. Do not use a chemically treated cloth or duster to clean the unit. Do not use benzine, thinner, polishing powder, or similar solvents for cleaning. These may cause the plastic surface to crack or deform. Never use water hotter than 40 C to clean the front panel, it could cause deformation of discoloration. A clogged air filter reduces the cooling efficiency of this unit. The filter should be cleaned every 2 weeks. 1. Lift the indoor unit panel up to an angle until it stops with a clicking sound. 2. Take hold of the handle of the air filter and lift it up slightly to take it out from the filter holder, then pull it downwards. 3. Remove the Active Carbon & Dust Filter from the indoor unit. Clean the it once every two weeks. Filter Handle Clean the it with a vacuum cleaner or water, then air dry and replace. 4. Remove the Air Freshening Filter(Optional filter included: Plasma Dust Collector/Silver Ion filter / Bio filter /Vitamin C filter/3M air purifier filter) from its support frame.(The removing and installation method may differ slightly, see the pictures marked 1 and 2 on the left. Clean the air freshening filter at least once a month, and replace it every 4-5 months. Clean it with vacuum cleaner, then air dry it in cool area. Air freshening filter Do not touch the Plasma Dust Collector Filter within 10 minutes after opening the front panel, it may cause an electric shock. 5. Install the air freshening filter back into position. 6. Insert the upper portion of air filter back into the unit, taking care that the left and right edges line up correctly and place filter into position. If you plan to idle the unit for a long time, perform the (1) Operate the fan for about half a day to dry the inside of the unit. (2) Stop the air conditioner and disconnect power. Remove the batteries from the remote controller. (3) The outdoor unit requires periodic maintenance and cleaning. Do not attempt to do this yourself. Contact your dealer or service engineer.. Checks before operation Check that the wiring is not broken off or disconnected. Check that the air filter is installed. Check if the air outlet or inlet is blocked after the air conditioner has not been used for a long time. Do not touch the metal parts of the unit when removing the filter. Injuries can occur when handling sharp metal edges. Do not use water to clean inside the air conditioner. Exposure to water can destroy the insulation, leading to possible electric shock. When cleaning the unit, first make sure that the power and circuit breaker are turned off. The following events may occur during normal operation. 1. Protection of the air conditioner. Compressor protection The compressor can't restart for 3 minutes after it stops. Anti-cold air (Cooling and heating models only) The unit is designed not to blow cold air on HEAT mode, when the indoor heat exchanger is in one of the following three situations and the set temperature has not been reached. A) When heating has just starting. B) Defrosting. C) Low temperature heating. The indoor or outdoor fan stop running when defrosting (Cooling and heating models only). Defrosting (Cooling and heating models only) Frost may be generated on the outdoor unit during heat cycle when outdoor temperature is low and humidity is high resulting in lower heating efficiency of the air conditioner. During this condition air conditioner will stop heating operation and start defrosting automatically. The time to defrost may vary from 4 to 20 minutes according to the outdoor temperature and the amount of frost build up on the outdoor unit. 2. A white mist coming out from the indoor unit A white mist may generate due to a large temperature difference between air inlet and air outlet on COOL mode in an indoor environment that has a high relative humidity. A white mist may generate due to moisture generated from defrosting process when the air conditioner restarts in HEAT mode operation after defrosting. 3. Low noise of the air conditioner You may hear a low hissing sound when the compressor is running or has just stopped running. This sound is the sound of the refrigerant flowing or coming to a stop. You can also hear a low "squeak" sound when the compressor is running or has just stopped running. This is caused by heat expansion and cold contraction of the plastic parts in the unit when the temperature is changing. A noise may be heard due to louver restoring to its original position when power is first turned on. 4. Dust is blown out from the indoor unit. This is a normal condition when the air conditioner has not been used for a long time or during first use of the unit. 5. A peculiar smell comes out from the indoor unit. This is caused by the indoor unit giving off smells permeated from building material, from furniture, or smoke. 6. The air conditioner turns to FAN only mode from COOL or HEAT (For cooling and heating models only) mode. When indoor temperature reaches the temperature setting on air conditioner, the compressor will stop automatically, and the air conditioner turns to FAN only mode. The compressor will start again when the indoor temperature rises on COOL mode or falls on HEAT mode (For cooling and heating models only) to the set point. 7. Dripping water may generate on the surface of the indoor unit when cooling in a high relatively humidity (relative humidity higher than 80%). Adjust the horizontal louver to the maximum air outlet position and select HIGH fan speed. 8. Heating mode (For cooling and heating models only) The air conditioner draws in heat from the outdoor unit and releases it via the indoor unit during heating operation. When the outdoor temperature falls, heat drawn in by the air conditioner decreases accordingly. At the same time, heat loading of the air conditioner increases due to larger difference between indoor and outdoor temperature. If a comfortable temperature can't be achieved by the air conditioner, we suggest you use a supplementary heating device. 9. Auto-restart function Power failure during operation will stop the unit completely. For the unit without Auto-restart feature, when the power restores, the OPERATION indicator on the indoor unit starts flashing. To restart the operation, push the ON/OFF button on the remote controller. For the unit with Auto-restart feature, when the power restores, the unit restarts automatically with all the previous settings preserved by the memory function. 10. Lightning or a car wireless telephone operating nearby may cause the unit to malfunction. Disconnect the unit with power and then re-connect the unit with power again. Push the ON/OFF button on the remote controller to restart operation. Stop the air conditioner immediately if one of the following faults occur. Disconnect the power and contact the nearest customer service center. OPERATION indicator or other indicators flash rapidly (5 times every second) and this flash can't be fixed by disconnecting the power, and then connect it in again. Fuse blows frequently or circuit breaker trips frequently. Other objects or water penetrate the air conditioner. The remote controller won't work or works abnormally. Other abnormal situations. Unit does not Wait for power to be restored. Unit may have become unplugged. Check that plug is securely in wall receptacle. Fuse may have blown. Replace the fuse. Battery in Remote controller may have been exhausted. Replace the battery. The time you have set with timer is incorrect. Wait or cancel timer setting. Unit not cooling Inappropriate temperature Set temperature correctly. For or heating detailed method please refer to (Cooling/ heating "Using remote control" section. models only) room very well Air filter is blocked. Clean the air filter. while air flowing Doors or Windows are open. Close the doors or windows. Air inlet or outlet of indoor or outdoor unit has been blocked. Clear obstructions away first, then Compressor 3 minutes protection has been activated. Wait. out from the air restart the unit. If the trouble has not been corrected, please contact a local dealer or your service engineer. Be sure to inform them of the detailed malfunctions and unit model. Notes: Do not attempt to repair the unit yourself. Always consult an authorised service provider. ONE (1)YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY Save This Warranty Information EcoAir guarantees this product free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one (1) year from the date of purchase, limited to parts only. Faults arising from a faulty installation is specifically excluded. This unit must be operated under conditions as recommended, at voltages indicated on the unit. Any attempts made to service or modify the unit by unqualified technician, will render this WARRANTY VOID. The actual product may differ slightly from the illustration. This warranty is in addition to, and does not affect, your statutory rights. For further information, please contact 020 8459 2458. Eco Air ECO1806SQ Operating instructions Ultra Inverter Split Air Conditioning User Manual 24000 BTU Senville Split Air Conditioners Manual Premier Inverter Split Air Conditioning User Manual for room air conditioner user`s manual(mulit one outdo Eco Air ECO2401SN Operating instructions Owner`s Manual Mini-Split Air Conditioner MS11D USER MANUAL TAS 18,24EHN MHP-Series Owner Manual User`s manual for ELITE series INVERTER SPLIT-TYPE ROOM AIR CONDITIONER Direct Air ROOM AIR CONDITIONER Operating instructions AlpicAir Split Air Conditioner User`s manual inverter split type - room air conditioner User Manual - Midea - Heat Pumps & Air Conditioning user`s manual.cdr - North American HVAC Products User Manual - Thermospace air conditioners midea air INVERTER SPLIT TYPE ROOM AIR CONDITIONER Operating instructions room air conditioner split type	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4182
__label__cc	0.693708	0.306292	Kunal Gupta shares his success story “Keep asking yourself: ‘What is the best thing for my business, and am I focused on it?’” — Kunal Gupta, CEO, Polar Mobile The Entrepreneurship 101 series kicked off 2013 with a Lived It Lecture showcasing the CEO of one of MaRS’ biggest success stories. Kunal Gupta, CEO of Polar Mobile, built his company in 2007 during the tail end of his undergraduate degree at the University of Waterloo. To date, his mobile application company has seen over 10 million downloads in a dozen countries. A client of MaRS’ information technology, communications and entertainment (ICE) practice, Polar Mobile had a big year in 2012, raising $6 million in funding. The rapid growth and success of Polar Mobile led to Kunal being included in Marketing magazine’s 30 Under 30 list. In this lecture, Kunal focused on three important areas for a successful startup: finance, customers and talent. He shared his experience and offered advice to entrepreneurs on the topics of: funding (including three tips on how to increase success when raising capital); negotiation; customer relations; creating and maintaining an effective business team; and future trends in the mobile market. While Kunal provided insightful perspectives on entrepreneurship, he also focused on the qualities of the “person behind the venture.” His wit and charisma made his talk compelling, while also being informative. Sketchnotes provided by Sacha Chua Catch Kunal talk about his continuing success story, followed by an audience Q & A session here: Video: Lived It Lecture with Harry Rosen—Quick Hits Video: Lived It Lecture with Bruce Poon Tip of G Adventures Article: “Being an entrepreneur” Want to connect? Join the Entrepreneurship 101 LinkedIn Group. Follow the conversation on Twitter: #ent101 Get updates on Vimeo. Download the course schedule.	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4185
__label__wiki	0.883436	0.883436	An innocent NPC may allude to future crossovers for Star Trek Online Play Star Trek Online for free Look at the guy in that image right there. He’s just some dude, right? Just a nameless NPC in Star Trek Online, offering no quests or shop functionality or anything of the sort. He is, in every sense of the word, totally superfluous. By which we of course mean that he’s anything but superfluous and may have some pretty far-reaching implications for the game’s storyline, the expansion Agents of Yesterday, and future development. If you’re staring at the screen and scratching your head in bafflement, that’s fine. I understand. In order for any of that to make sense, you have to understand uniforms and why they’re a big deal in Star Trek, as well as species we just plain don’t know about yet. Take a look at the two screenshots we’ve been given of this mystery man, and then jump on down below to learn about uniforms, implications, and uniforms. First of all, let’s set some foundational material. There are two timelines to be concerned with in Star Trek as a franchise. The prime universe is the one that’s been the setting for five separate television series, 10 films, lots of books and video games, and also the very important STO. The alternate universe is the one that’s served as a setting for the past two Star Trek films as well as the upcoming Star Trek Beyond. And that nameless NPC belongs there, not in the prime universe, because his uniform is wrong. Take a look at the dudes at the top of this article here and make careful note of the uniform they’re wearing. There are three relevant points of interest. First of all, the uniform is made of a smooth material; second, the rank piping at the wrist and the insignia are both sewn on in gold lamé; third, the uniform tunic appears to be a single piece with a black collar. Now, take a look at this page on Lieutenant 0718, a character who appears in Star Trek Into Darkness. He’s not a significant character, but he’s there in the background, and he’s relevant to this discussion. Immediately, you can tell that his uniform is similar to the above, but it’s not the same. The tunic is not a single piece, but rather a black undershirt with a colored overshirt (we see Kirk wearing just the undershirt in the previous film). The insignia is in silver and is a separate piece from the tunic. Furthermore, the tunic is a ribbed mesh material. It’s possible to write off some of these as a result of style, better special effects, or lighting, just like it’s possible to argue that the insignia as a separate piece is part of the technical limitations of STO. But take another look at those screenshots, and look at 0718 again. For a game that has proved itself very capable of displaying classic uniforms, it’s a conscious choice when someone is not wearing an actual classic uniform. That’s an alternate universe uniform. Let’s also consider the fact that the man in question has no visible iris or pupil and a cybernetic implant of some sort on his cranium. Both appear normal for 0718, but they are completely atypical for the Starfleet we know of that permits minimal cybernetic modification. The alternate universe apparently has different standards. In other words – what we have here is a character who is in completely the wrong universe but exists in a time period contemporaneous with the exact era that the game’s next expansion is going to be covering. It’s quite possible that he might serve as a not-so-subtle hint about what is coming around the corner, a preview of crossing over with the alternate universe and exploring what that might mean across multiple potential timelines. Or he’s just a little Easter egg thrown in there for fans to smile about. That could be it. Thanks to JackSparrowJive for the tip and the screenshots! cryptic studios internet spaceships perfect world entertainment pwe uniforms are serious business Previous articleThe story of Overwatch’s Hanzo and Genji plays out in ‘Dragons’ short Next articleLord of the Rings Online finally makes slayer deeds easier to complete LordJerle Drunk3nShaman Console STO is a slap in the face to the PC community. RicharddeLeonIII johnmynard RicharddeLeonIII Wait…he raised Sisko? snicker j/k BigMikeyOcho I’m going to take a guess and say it’s just an Easter Egg. Can they do a crossover between the JJ-verse and Prime in STO? Well, sure. But seeing as how STO’s Star Trek rights are with CBS, who only owns the TV rights and not the Paramount movie rights, then Cryptic would have to strike a deal with Paramount, too, to include reboot stuff (well, I’m assuming. In the end, everything from the movies started as being part of the shows, so they could maybe still use it? But it’d be walking a fine legal line). It’s not completely out of the question, as TV/game tie-ins work pretty well (see: Marvel Heroes). But my money is still on Easter Egg. Quinnocent Wakkander Flimflamberge DrowNoble Season 1 and 2 were Gene’s final years. At its worst, those seasons’ episodes were repetitions of hokey stuff that flew in 60’s and 70’s scifi that just seemed contrived and silly during the 90’s. I do think Gene was capable of much, much better (even some of the “serious” episodes of those two seasons were awful), but he wasn’t really at the top of his game mentally or creatively. His health was really suffering near the end, and I think that limited his output. The TNG people love is Rick Berman’s TNG. It again declined during its later season (god, Beverly Crusher in an Anne Rice novel, please kill me). But that’s because Rick Berman and his core circle of talent was focusing on DS9, and they were letting a lot of really poorly-written scripts from outsiders in for TNG. DS9 was Rick Berman doing things his way, with his people (Mike Piller and others). They’re probably the names most responsible for the Trek younger geeks grew up with and loved. CharlesRoyWilliamson Fucking yuck! johnmynard tylercles AFAIK, it’s still in the prime ‘verse, though it goes back and forth as to whether it’s a sequel or a prequel. RicharddeLeonIII I would argue that George was better in the classic universe because he raised his son to be the greatest captain in Starfleet history. Dobablo “Much loved” might be stretching it a bit. Wakkander Flimflamberge Wakkander DrowNoble I submit to you the unholy horror that was the Star Wars Christmas Special. At its worst bit of moralizing preaching that ST can do, it never had something like that. Also, if we include the EU, there was Luuke, the evil clone of Luke. Well, there was a lot of bad stuff in the EU, some good as well but… Luuke. Too many U’s leads to evil, it is known. However, you are not wrong that bad trek can be really bad. Season 1-2 TNG was terrible except for a few episodes, thankfully it managed to get dramatically better in the future and still had a few good episodes. One notable mention is the introduction of Ferengi, Gene’s strawman for capitalism that was supposed to replace Klingon’s as the big bad villains for TNG, but came off as so silly and unthreatening they canned those plans, only for them to become comedic relief later on. Flimflamberge Wakkander DrowNoble I kind of liked the 2009 film for what it was. One major downside of being the “thinking man’s sci-fi” is that a lot of Star Trek writers are exceedingly poor thinkers. Sometimes Trek can be utterly fantastic, but when it’s bad it’s far worse than Star Wars can ever be. Because at least SW when it’s bad is just boring and contrived. ST when at its worst will actively try to teach absolutely vile “moral” lessons. Perfect Ten: 10 MMO features that deserve widespread adaptation Vague Patch Notes: Having fun in an MMO doesn’t actually mean it’s any good Perfect Ten: MMOs that let you feel superheroic What to do in World of Warcraft when you’re level 110 Perfect Ten: The big book of MMORPG death mechanics	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4189
__label__cc	0.53108	0.46892	BOOKREVIEW: Pritchard, Swiss Timepiece makers Discussion in 'Horological Books' started by Fortunat Mueller-Maerki, Aug 31, 2002. #1 Fortunat Mueller-Maerki, Aug 31, 2002 Swiss Timepiece Makers, 1775-1975 By Kathleen H. Pritchard, published in 1997, for the National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors, by Phoenix Publishing. ISBN 0-914659-79-0, approx. 1800 pages, 2 Volumes, hardcover, in cassette, approx. 16x24 cm. Available at NAWCC (for North America) or Antoine Simonin, Neuchatel - Switzerland (for Europe), US$ 125. Numerous b&w illustrations reproducing trademarks and advertisements, Bibliography, Foreword by Henry B. Fried. "Swiss Timepiece Makers, 1775 - 1975" is destined to become a "must-have" reference book on the shelf of any serious collector of watches and the dedicated student of horological history. The two encyclopedic volumes list -- in strictly alphabetical order - detailed entries for about 2000 Swiss based makers of timepieces, covering a 200 year timespan. The entries are fully cross-referenced covering individuals, companies, brand- and model-names, trademarks, as well as names of the US importers that often appeared on the dials. A typical entry will include name, location, dates active, personal or corporate history, logos and brand names used, model names, types of timepieces produced, as well as bibliographical references. The majority of entries, of course, are cross-references from brand-, trade- and model-names to each maker's main entry. Most main entries are about a dozen lines long, but they range from the the short, such as e.g. "Patenoste, Jean: Geneva, Master watchmaker, 1775-1792", to a 25 page monograph on e.g. "Patek, Philippe & Co", which includes 8 variations of their corporate name, a list of 30 model names, its own two page bibliography and an extensive history of the maker, including the names of key executives and craftsman. This book is the result of a 30-year labor of love by one of the most knowledgeable and diligent scholars of the history of Swiss horology. Kathleen Pritchard is a well-known author and researcher in U.S horological circles; she is a Star Fellow of the NAWCC, and a longtime former Trustee of the NAWCC museum. Ms. Pritchard is clearly aware that the broadness of her topic is such that the listings are not complete - they never can be complete, one can always find one more source, one more name. But after assembling this information for several decades she felt that the time was ripe to share her data with her fellow horological enthusiasts. She states in the introduction that she intends to continue her reading of the horological literature, to correct, update and expand the book (incorporating readers' suggestions) in the future. Given today's computer technology there is no longer any need for the big print-runs that used to cause decades to pass between successive editions of such specialized books. It is my impression that the book in its current form is more thorough on the watch side than regarding clocks, which, given the smaller production runs and how little has been published on them, are a lot more difficult to research bibliographically. The physical presentation of the books is good and solid: These are not flashy volumes for the coffee table, but serious reference and research tools, which are sturdily bound (the 2 volumes held in an attractive cassette), using small typeface, and jam packed with useful information, logically presented. Pritchards' Swiss Timepiece Makers are destined to become a perennial classic on the researcher's bookshelf, a tool nobody will want to miss, taking their well deserved space of honor besides -- and complementing - such classics as Britten, Baille, Loomes, and Kochmann. Book review by Fortunat Mueller-Maerki, Scarsdale NY, USA FortunatMueller-Maerki NAWCC Life # 174 Publisher of Horology - The Index, your horological Internet Portal http://horology.com your gateway to 3000 horological websites You can reach me at horology@horology.com [This message was edited by horology on November 19, 2003 at 8:28.] Review: Pritchard, Swiss Timepiece makers Mike Kearney Guest #3 Mike Kearney, Aug 31, 2002 I can only add that in my stint as wristwatch forum moderator I answered many requests for information with the help of Kathy Pritchard's 'Swiss Timepiece Makers 1775-1975', and the Bestfit 111 and 111A. There's really nothing like Kathy's books, and if Swiss watches are your thing, there's no better reference books to have. Greg Crockett Registered User #4 Greg Crockett, Apr 14, 2003 I agree, the books are a must have tool for the avid collector, and it is a bargain at the price. I enjoy collecting military watches, and this fine set has often helped me i.d. the various makers of these watches and the affiliations they have with each other. Ms. Pritchard has earned my highest regard for her scholarly efforts. Greg Crockett	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4193
__label__wiki	0.500533	0.500533	This is in contrast to the standard notion of essentiality, which Posted on April 27, 2016 by meki1359 This is in contrast to the standard notion of essentiality, which is assigned to a gene or reaction whose single knockout abolishes a phenotype. k-essential links between genes/reactions and Regorafenib systems-level functions arise from synergistic epistasis between parallel pathways in the network. Complex MCSs found using our method yield many k-essential reactions. To quantify novel k-essential links between reactions and objectives, we compared the numbers of k-essential reactions to the number of 1-essential reactions obtained from a brute-force single knockout analysis of the human metabolic network. Figure Figure44 shows how many reactions were deemed k-essential for each objective, with the numbers of reactions shown to be 1-essential for the objective shown in parentheses next to the metabolite label. We found that for most objectives we were able to associate many more k-essential reactions with the production of a given metabolite than were able to be found using a single knockout analysis. In many cases, this difference was profound, such as for sphingomyelin, whose producibility we were able to epistatically link to 235 reactions in the metabolic network. Figure 4 Histogram showing number of k-essential reactions discovered for each biosynthetic objective tested in our study. A reaction is k-essential for an objective if it contributes to at least one MCS for that objective. The number of reactions found to be … MCSs span multiple compartments and metabolic subsystems MCSs discovered by our analysis span a breadth of cellular compartments. However, the actual distributions of compartment span vary distinctly between specific metabolite classes (Fig. (Fig.5).5). In particular, amino acid-targeting MCSs discovered by our method employ the fewest number of compartments, drawing from cytoplasmic fluxes alone or a combination of cytoplasmic and mitochondrial reactions. MCSs targeting core metabolites span between two and three compartments, consisting of primarily cytoplasmic and mitochondrial reactions, however often also employing peroxisomal fluxes. Nucleotide-targeting MCSs sometimes employ cytoplasmic reactions only, however more often pull combinations of reactions from two or three of the following compartments: cytoplasm, mitochondria, lysosome, and nucleus. Across all metabolite classes studied, membrane-lipid-targeting MCSs are the most diverse: they harness up to five compartment combinations that employ reactions Cilengitide from the cytoplasm, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, nucleus, and peroxisome. Figure 5 Histogram showing number of compartments spanned by MCSs targeting the four metabolite classes. Frequencies are calibrated separately for each metabolite class. There are also metabolite class differences in the subsystem span of discovered MCSs (Fig. (Fig.6).6). Nucleotide and amino acid-targeting MCSs span between one and five subsystems. If the pacing is sufficiently rapid, say B If the pacing is sufficiently rapid, say Bselleck chemical is the average shortening of APD resulting from decreasing B below Bcrit, and an(x) is the amplitude of alternans at the nth beat. It is assumed that an(x) varies slowly from beat to beat, so that one may regard it as the discrete values of a smooth function a(x,t) of continuous time t, i.e., an(x)=a(x,tn) where tn=nB for n=0,1,2,��. Based on the above assumptions, a weakly nonlinear modulation equation for a(x,t) was derived in Ref. 18 which, after nondimensionalization with respect to time, is given by ?ta=��a+��2?xxa?w?xa?��?1��0xa(x��,t)dx��?ga3. (2.3) Here ��, the bifurcation parameter may be obtained by18 ��=12(B?Bcrit)?f��(Dcrit), (2.4) where Dcrit=Bcrit?Acrit; ��,w,�� are positive parameters, each having the units of length that are derived from the equations of the cardiac model; and the nonlinear term ?ga3 limits growth after the onset of linear instability. Neumann boundary conditions ?xa(?,t)=0 (2.5) are imposed in Eq. 2.3. To complete the???xa(0,t)=0, nondimensionalization of Eq. 2.3, we define the following dimensionless ?��=??w��?2, (2.6) and we rescale the time??x��=x?w��?2,??variables: ��=��?w3��?4, g��=g?w?2��2. (2.7) In this??�ҡ�=��?w?2��2,??t and parameters �� and g, t��=t?w2��?2, notation, Eq. 2.3 may be rewritten ?t��a=�ҡ�a+La?g��a3, (2. where L is the linear operator on the interval 0<?�� (with Neumann boundary conditions), La=?2a?x��2??a?x��?��?1��0x��a(x��)dx��. (2.9) We could remove the factor g�� by rescaling on the amplitude a(x,t), but little would be gained by this. In this paper, g�� is fixed at 40. For convenience below we will omit all the bars in Eqs. 2.8, 2.9. The trivial solution of Eq. 2.3, a(x,t)��0, is linearly stable for �� small (including all negative values) and loses its stability as �� increases beyond some threshold ��th. Instability may appear through either a steady-state or Hopf bifurcation. Which bifurcation occurs first depends on whether ��max, the eigenvalue of L in Eq. 2.9 which has the largest real part, is real or complex, and ��th=?Re?��max. (2.10) Figure Figure11 shows how the first few eigenvalues of L (only real parts are graphed) depend on the dispersive coefficient ��?1.</p> [The figure is based on lengths =6 and 15, but the behavior is qualitatively similar for all sufficiently large . Note that all eigenvalues lie in the (stable) left half plane.] It may be seen from the figure that there is a critical value ��c?1, such that if ��?1<��c?1, Brefeldin_A the real eigenvalue ��0 of L has largest real part (thus steady-state bifurcation occurs first) and if ��?1>��c?1, then the complex pair ��1,2 has the largest real part (thus Hopf bifurcation occurs first). 5 defines the average resident time in that state, as well as the Posted on April 7, 2016 by meki1359 5 defines the average resident time in that state, as well as the expected first passage time. With respect to S1, Eq. 5 roughly defines the expected number of oscillations for a given transient. http://www.selleckchem.com/products/DAPT-GSI-IX.html Remaining in S1 for one time step in the Markov chain representation is equivalent to one oscillation in Eq. 1. For example, if p1=0.5 then from Eq. 5 the expected number of oscillations is 1/(1?0.5) or 2 oscillations. Each time step in the Markov chain model is 2.5��. Thus when ��=1 the oscillation lasts 5 time steps and when ��=10 to 25 time steps. Figure Figure99 shows that the distribution of the durations of S1 measured from time series (method given in figure legend) when ��=6 compares very well to that obtained from simulating the three-state Markov chain using the estimates we obtained for the transition probabilities. The agreement with the distribution of DITO duration times determined from simulation of Eq. 1 supports the validity of our procedure for constructing the Markov chain model. Figure 8 The estimated probability of remaining in the S1 state, p1, as a function of ��. The parameters are the same as in Fig. Fig.22 with ��2=0.05. The solid line represents the mean value obtained from 1000 realizations … Figure 9 Comparison of the distribution of S1 durations predicted using the Markov chain approximation developed in the text (lines) versus the distribution estimated using time series generated from Eq. 1 (?). The solid line represents the mean value … DISCUSSION Here we have investigated the transient oscillations, namely DITO-IIs, that arise in bistable, time-delayed models of a two-neuron network that is tuned near the separatrix that separates two attractors. Our goal was to demonstrate that DITO-IIs can occur in the presence of random perturbations (��noise��). The surprising result was that it was possible to obtain some insight into the statistical properties of these transients. Whereas the analysis of nonlinear delay differential equations is typically a formidable task, their analysis in the presence of noise appears to be easier in certain contexts. This is because the autocorrelation function, a measure of the effect of the past on the future, decays quite rapidly and becomes negligible for lags ��2.5��. This observation makes it possible to use a Markov chain approximation to model the dynamics. The application of a Markov chain approach to the study of SR in discrete models is often facilitated by using estimates Carfilzomib of the transition probabilities obtained by either equating Kramer��s rate with the theoretical switching rate or by choosing probabilities proportional to the height of the potential barrier.10, 11, 40 However, Eq. 1 corresponds to a three-state Markov chain model, and it does not possess a potential function (Appendix). Consequently it was necessary to estimate the transition probabilities using numerical simulations. 1 The defects may vary in size and shape from a loop like, pear-s 1 The defects may vary in size and shape from a loop like, pear-shaped or slightly radiolucent structure to a severe form resembling a ��tooth within a tooth��.4 It can be identified easily because infolding of the enamel lining is more radiopaque than the surrounding tooth structure.1 Oehlers5 described dens in dente selleck kinase inhibitor according to invagination degree in three forms: Type 1: an enamel-lined minor form occurs within the crown of the tooth and not extending beyond the cemento-enamel junction; Type 2: an enamel-lined form which invades the root as a blind sac and may communicate with the dental pulp; Type 3: a severe form which extends through the root and opens in the apical region without communicating with the pulp. Double dens invaginatus is an extremely rare dental anomaly involving two enamel lined invaginations presented in the crowns or roots of a tooth. This article reports three cases of double dens invaginatus in maxillary lateral incisors. CASE 1 A 20 year old woman reported to our clinic for orthodontic treatment. The patient was in good general health. Extraoral examination revealed no significant findings. Intraorally the gingiva was inflamed. The maxillary left lateral permanent incisor was found to have an abnormal crown form with restoration. On the palatal surface, lingual cingulum was joined to the labial cusp by a prominent transverse ridge resembling an extra cusp was present which divided the palatal surface into two fossae. Two palatal pits was located and had restored in each fossae. On radiographic examination of the maxillary left lateral incisor, two dens invaginatus were presented originating from each palatal pit (Figure 1). The tooth had a single root, was vital, and no evidence of periapical infection was noted. Figure 1 Periapical radiograph showing a restorated maxillary left lateral incisor with double dens invaginatus. CASE 2 22 year old woman reported to our clinic for a routine dental treatment. The patient was in good general health. Extraoral examination revealed no significant findings. Intraoral examination, showed a deep anatomic pit on palatal surface of maxillary left lateral permanent incisor. In periapical radiograph two dens invaginatus were seen (Figure 2). The patient had no associated symptoms, and there were no radiographically visible lesions associated with the affected tooth. The tooth appeared healthy and was vital. The patient was referred for restoration of the palatal pit to avoid possible infection. Figure 2 Periapical radiograph showing a maxillary left lateral incisor Carfilzomib with double dens invaginatus. CASE 3 A 35 year old woman reported to our clinic complaining of pain in the maxillary right central incisor. The patient was in good general health. Extraoral examination revealed no significant findings. In intraoral examination a maxillary right lateral incisor with an abnormal crown form was observed. Concerning the concentration of blood lactate, our judokas achiev Concerning the concentration of blood lactate, our judokas achieved values of 12 �� 2.5 mmol �� l?1 in the laboratory test. Thomas et al. (1989) recorded a mean 15.2 mmol �� l?1 of lactate in Canadian judokas in a similar test. When we conducted the tests on the tatami (field test), the value obtained was 15.6 �� 2.8 mmol �� l?1. Previous studies have reported values ranging from sellckchem 6.4 to 17.9 mmol �� l?1 (Sikorski et al., 1987; Sanchis et al., 1991; Drigo et al., 1995; Heinisch, 1997; Serrano et al., 2001; Franchini et al., 2003; Sbriccoli et al., 2007; Braudry and Roux, 2009; Franchini et al., 2009b). Unfortunately, different testing procedures with different protocols (judo-specific circuit training exercises, special judo fitness test) have yielded a wide variety of results. Nevertheless, when the field test was a real competition or a practice combat the results increased to a higher range: 9 to 20 mmol �� l?1 (Sanchis et al., 1991; Drigo et al., 1995; Serrano et al., 2001; Sbriccoli et al., 2007). The field test used in this study (Santos) was designed to mimic real competition conditions, and all of our subjects achieved values within this range. This fact reaffirms the idea that the Santos test is an adequate tool to improve judokas�� performance in competition. Besides, maximum blood lactate reached 15.6 �� 2.8 mmol �� l?1 in our field test. This value is significantly higher than the one obtained in the laboratory test. This is possible because of the greater muscular involvement required in the field test. Judo combat recruits more muscle fibers (whole body) than running on a treadmill (legs). Therefore, a higher lactate acid production should be expected. Regarding the IAT, male judokas undergoing laboratory tests (Gorostiaga, 1988) manifest it at 4 mmol �� l?1 of lactate concentration, and at a running speed of 9�C13 km �� h?1 (depending on the physical condition of the athlete). Our male judokas reached their IAT at 174.2 �� 9.4 beats �� min?1, which is equivalent to 87 �� 3.6 % of HRmax, a lactate concentration of 4.0 �� 0.2 mmol �� l?1, and a running speed of 11�C15 km �� h?1. In another group of judokas (7 males and 1 female), Bonitch et al. (2005) found IAT values of 174 �� 9 beats �� min?1, which are very similar to our results. In our field test, all judokas manifested their IAT between 12 and 15 repetitions, at a heart rate of 173. 2 �� 4.3 beats �� min?1, which is equivalent to 86 �� 2.5 % of HRmax, and a lactate concentration of 4.0 �� 0.2 mmol �� l?1. Therefore, no significant differences were observed between the values obtained in the laboratory and in the field test. In a previous study (Santos Anacetrapib et al., 2010), a different group of high-level male judokas reached their IAT in the laboratory test at 170.3 beats �� min?1 (85.9% of HRmax), and in the field test between 11 and 15 repetitions and at a heart rate of 169.7 beats �� min?1 (85. Heart rate was continuously recorded by means of a heart rhythm m Heart rate was continuously recorded by means of a heart rhythm monitor (Polar S810, OY Finland), and it was digitalized using Pazopanib HCl a Digital Wireless Industrial Transceiver (model Wit 2410 E, 2.4 GHz). Throughout the test, micro samples of arterialized blood were obtained from perforation of the earlobe in order to determine the blood concentrations of lactate. The samples were taken before the test, when the ventilation threshold was being reached (as determined from the data obtained in real time from the portable gas analyzer), and 5 minutes after the end of the test. The test was considered terminated when the athletes could no longer meet the previously indicated quality requirements. The blood lactate was analyzed with the same equipment and procedure used in the laboratory test. In order to verify the validity of our proposal, the same parameters were studied in the field and laboratory tests. Each subjects�� IAT was measured using Keul et al.��s procedures (1979). These researchers considers that the workload, the VO2 or the treadmill velocity corresponding to the point cut by a tangent on the lactate curve with an angle of 51o represents the IAT of the subject. Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) Morgan and Borg (1976) observed that the rate of change in the rating of perceived exertion (RPE) during prolonged work can be used as a sensitive predictor of the point of self-imposed exhaustion. The commonly employed Borg 6�C20 scale assumes a linear function between perceptual and physiological (VO2, HR) or physical (work rate) parameters (Borg, 1998). Recently, the use of RPE has been applied to resistance training in an effort to create a valid, non-invasive way to monitor training intensity (Sweet et al., 2004). However, the existing literature on RPE applied to judo athletes is scarce. The subjects were given standardized instructions on how to implement the scale during their test session. The scale remained in full view of the judokas for the duration of the test. They were asked to rate their perceived exertion on the Borg��s scale at the end of the trial. Mean and standard deviation were calculated, and values were classified in accordance with the American College of Sports Medicine qualitative descriptors. Statistical analysis All statistical analyses were carried out using the SPSS 12. 0 programme for Windows, applying the Student��s t-test, and considering the minimum level of significance as p<0.05. This procedure was used because it has been considered valid to compare different performances of the same subject (Montoliu et al., 1997). In order to verify whether the differences between the mean data on laboratory and field tests were statistically Cilengitide significant, and to show the reproducibility of the field test, we performed the statistical T-test, also known as Student��s t-test. Results The mean data obtained in the laboratory tests was: HRmax: 200 �� 4.	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4195
__label__wiki	0.845882	0.845882	Academic disciplines, Psychology Multiple realities (covers information from several alternate timelines) Psychology was the study in the field of science of Human mental processes and behavior; after space exploration and First Contact, it seems to have been expanded to include other humanoids in fields such as space psychology and exopsychology. One who practiced in this field was known as a psychologist or counselor. After confronting Bu'kaH in 2151, Jonathan Archer later told Trip Tucker that "I think I might have made a tactical error dealing with the Klingon woman. I asked her for help. She could see that as a sign of weakness." In response, Tucker asked if Archer had "been boning up on your Klingon psychology?" Archer then explained that "we've run into them three times, and every time they've wanted to destroy us. I'd love to figure out why." (ENT: "Sleeping Dogs") After Ensign Garrovick was confined to his quarters for not firing his phaser quickly enough at the dikironium cloud creature on Argus X, Christine Chapel visited him, carrying a bowl of soup and a tape. Garrovick told her that he was not hungry, and instead wanted to know what was going on outside of his quarters. When Chapel told him that things were pretty chaotic, and that he was better off where he was, he began to go into a rant about how everything was his fault. In response, Chapel told him, "You know, self-pity's a terrible first course. Why don't you try the soup instead?" He again insisted that he was not hungry, at which point told him, "Doctor McCoy thought you might say something like that," then held up the tape she was carrying and told him "this is his officially logged prescription for you. It has one word on it. Eat. Now if you don't follow his orders, Doctor McCoy could and possibly would have you hauled down to sickbay and fed intravenously," and then left. Upon returning to sickbay, she put the tape down. McCoy picked it up and read that it was "A Survey on Cygnian Respiratory Diseases", and asked, "I thought you took Garrovick some food. What were you doing with this?" Chapel responded, "Applying psychology." (TOS: "Obsession") During the early 2350s, Benjamin Sisko and some friends where enjoying some free time at The Launching Pad when they were confronted by Solok and some other Vulcan cadets, who "were doing research on illogical Human bonding rituals." Sisko and his friend didn't take kindly to that, and they got into a debate, and offered to solve the situation and prove that Humans were the equal of Vulcans by challenging Solok to a wrestling match, in which Sisko was easily defeated. Afterward, Solok took every opportunity to remind Sisko of the match by pointing him out as he walked across the campus, and later by writing five psychology papers about the match. Even after graduation, Solok continued to write about the match, having written over a dozen papers on Vulcan/Human comparative profiles by the mid-2370s, with each paper beginning with an analysis of their wrestling match. (DS9: "Take Me Out to the Holosuite") Deanna Troi first met Tam Elbrun at the University of Betazed when she was studying psychology there during the late 2350s. At the time he was her patient. (TNG: "Tin Man") After Troi had lost her empathic abilities in 2367, she was told by Beverly Crusher that her condition was "no different than if one of us suddenly going blind." Troi replied, "Doctor, you don't have to tell me, I understand the psychology," to which Crusher responded, "you may understand it, but you've never had to live with it." Troi was later visited in her quarters by William T. Riker, who stated "I don't have a psychology degree, but if you want to talk..." as his way of helping her out. Later, when Jean-Luc Picard needed Troi's assistance with understanding the two-dimensional lifeforms the USS Enterprise-D encountered, he told her "if there is a psychology to these creatures, we must discover it, if there is an explanation to their behavior, we must know it. Even in your current condition, you are the most qualified person aboard this ship to assist." (TNG: "The Loss") In 2368, Aaron Conor told Deanna Troi, while describing his society, that "my psychology tells me that I was born to lead." (TNG: "The Masterpiece Society") In 2369, Jean-Luc Picard attended a physiognomy workshop, where Dr. Vassbinder gave an hour-long dissertation on the ionization effect on warp nacelles before he realized that the topic was supposed to be psychology. (TNG: "Timescape") The Delta Quadrant Think Tank solved problems by using what was described as "pure tactics, [and] psychology." (VOY: "Think Tank") In an alternate timeline, Reginald Barclay and Kathryn Janeway taught a class at Starfleet Academy about the Borg, where their cadets would "learn about the assimilation process, the Borg hierarchy, and the psychology of the hive mind." (VOY: "Endgame") Mental health references Edit Manitoba Journal of Interplanetary Psychology Mental Hospitals and Institutes Neural neutralizer Psychotectic therapy Psycho-tricorder Reverse psychology Related disciplines Edit Penology External link Edit Psychology at Wikipedia Retrieved from "https://memory-alpha.fandom.com/wiki/Psychology?oldid=2342884" Academic disciplines	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4197
__label__wiki	0.712595	0.712595	Will Marijuana Social Clubs Become a Reality in Maine? We talked to David Boyer, Maine's political director of the Marijuana Policy Project, about pushing for legal weed to be regulated just like alcohol and bars. Lead photo via iStock Last November, Maine voters approved of Question 1, a state law legalizing recreational pot, set to launch in 2018. Licenses for grows and retail stores would go to Mainers first, to keep the revenues in-state. At the center of Maine’s legalization movement stands David Boyer, the state’s political director of the Marijuana Policy Project, a nationwide non-profit dedicated to regulating pot like alcohol. When Boyer first campaigned for legalization a few years ago, he faced a pyrrhic uphill battle, a war fought on not two, but three (!) fronts. His first set of rivals were the usual suspects, local prohibitionists like Scott Gagnon of Smart Approaches to Marijuana. The second set of opponents were a vocal group of the state’s medical home growers, who Boyer dubbed the “Baptists and the bootleggers.” This phrase came from alcohol prohibition, as many alcohol bootleggers opposed legal booze sales for the same reason some medical home growers oppose recreational legalization: it threatened a preexisting business model, one the bootleggers thrived under. And the third rival, ironically, was Paul McCarrier of the grassroots group Legalize Maine, who had their own, separate legalization bill “written for Mainers, by Mainers.” Legalize Maine’s bill gives regulatory authority to the state’s Department of Agriculture, whereas Boyer’s bill gave that power to the Bureau of Alcoholic Beverages and Lottery Operations. Legalize Maine’s bill also proposed a lower tax on recreational sales than Boyer’s. As Boyer quickly learned, Maine’s native-born residents are incredibly suspicious of outsiders. Boyer, who moved to Maine in 2011, became a target of Legalize Maine’s supporters due to his involvement with MPP: his opponents labeled him a “DC lobbyist” bent on monopolizing Maine’s marijuana for outside financial interests. The medical marijuana community feared Boyer’s bill was designed to slowly phase-out the state’s medical system, considered one of the best in the US. Then, in 2016, the unthinkable happened. After a vicious campaign between Boyer and McCarrier, the two men buried the hatchet and joined forces. Boyer scrapped his bill and adopted Legalize Maine’s, and Legalize Maine let Boyer handle the PR. With just one legalization bill on the November ballot instead of two, they won. Barely. After weeks of nail-biting recounts, Question 1 passed by a hair—with just a few thousand votes on history’s right side. Adults 21 and over may grow up to 18 plants in their homes, six flowering and 12 vegetating, with no need for a medical license. The law also establishes licensing for smoking clubs, also known as social-use clubs, something left out of Colorado and Massachusetts’s legalization bills. Today, Boyer and McCarrier are working with a state-appointed committee to clarify the rules of social clubs under Question 1. Their negotiations are typical, as Colorado and Massachusetts faced similar growing pains shortly after they approved legalization measures. Advocates in both states are struggling to make social clubs a legitimate fixture of their local marijuana industries, even though public consumption is banned in both places. Colorado alone is believed to have up to 30 unlicensed social clubs; the handful of licensed clubs are located in the city of Colorado Springs, where recreational weed sales aren’t allowed, and those clubs will be forced to close in eight years under a city ordinance passed last year. Boyer took a moment from hustling at Maine’s state capitol for a phone call with MERRY JANE regarding the social clubs issue. He’s confident Maine will get the clubs sometime next year, but he’s currently wrangling with regulators who aren’t so keen on these cannabis hangouts. If given the greenlight by February 2018, Maine will become the first recreational state with social clubs operating openly and without the fear of shut-down from local authorities. “We have social clubs for alcohol,” Boyer says, “and they’re called ‘bars.’ We should have those for marijuana. They’ll solve a lot of problems we’re starting to see.” MERRY JANE: What are some of the problems you mentioned that could stem from a lack of social clubs for marijuana? David Boyer: One, adults and Mainers may not have a legal place to use marijuana. It’s now legal to possess and to cultivate for personal use. But there are a lot of cases where citizens’ living situations doesn’t allow them to use at home: they may live in government housing, or they have kids at home and don’t feel comfortable using it there, or their lease says they can’t use it in the home. Those people deserve to have a place to legally use marijuana, especially if we’re not allowing it in public. Tourists definitely don’t have a good place to use marijuana. It’s a problem now, but once we have recreational stores, we’ll see that it’s an issue for those visiting Maine. We had over 35 million visitors last year. That’s millions of people coming here to use marijuana. Even if it’s just 10 percent, that’s still 3.5 million people buying an edible or a bag. That’s three times the size of our state right there. We want to make Maine desirable, alongside Massachusetts, as a vacation place for marijuana consumers on the East Coast. What’s the model? The initiatives talked about on-site consumption. That’s what we’d like to see: a place that would allow consumption onsite. Just like you could buy a beer at a bar, you could buy marijuana at a social club. Just like with alcohol, you can’t buy it and take it with you. You have to consume it there. If we have to take some form of compromise from the state, we will. We’ll take the best we can. If that means we have to take existing places that already sell marijuana and turn them into social clubs, then we’ll take that. Do you think social clubs will thrive in the state? It really makes sense for Maine. Social clubs are not a terribly profitable business venture. Not many people will use that much marijuana in one sitting. And it’s going to happen anyway whether Maine does anything about it or not. They’re already popping up. There’s caregiver storefronts. There’s unlicensed social clubs popping up, as well. So Maine has a choice, for people to use marijuana in quasi-legal social clubs that aren’t regulated, that aren’t taxed, where employees have no real protections. Or Maine can allow regulated clubs. It’s something Maine voted on. The opposition tried to use the social clubs against us during the campaign. They claim people didn’t know what they were voting for with these initiatives, but we think Mainers know what they voted for. They know social clubs were part of Question 1. Right now, does it look like it’s going to happen? There are a lot of reasonable people on the committee. We think some form of social clubs will make it through. Any advice for other states considering legalization? When drafting the initiative, I would tell them that it’s important to include as many supporters as possible early on. Maybe one group only needs to see one thing in there to get their support for the measure. That one thing may seem benign to voters or to other advocates, but it may be important for that one group of supporters, to make this thing bigger. I would also recommend to not let “perfect” be the enemy of “good.” It’s kind of a cliché, but it’s a really relevant one, especially in politics and the legalization movement. Some people didn’t vote for Question 1 because it wasn’t perfect, because it wasn’t their “unicorn bill.” For someone to not vote for our initiative because it didn’t go far enough is silly, reckless even. Very reckless. Our initiative allowed adults 21 and over to possess two-and-half ounces of marijuana. It allowed a lot of adults to grow, more per household per adult. It’s about getting a foothold in. Now, the laws of prohibition are crumbling around us, and it’s just a matter of time as more and more states join us. The joint selection committee, unfortunately, feels as though they can rewrite the initiative, rewrite the rules. We obviously disagree, and we’ll stay vigilant in defending the initiative. Some of the regulations don’t affect Joe Six-Pack, but taking away the social clubs does affect the voters and Mainers—it affects a lot of other people. For more information on Maine's push for legal cannabis, visit Legalize Maine's website here. Follow Randy on Twitter.	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4199
__label__wiki	0.773013	0.773013	Massive, Fuel Rock Club Cardiff 10.10.18 By hearetaffy Reviews, Tony Heare Reviews The boys from Melbourne rolled into the Welsh capital for the latest gig on their 51 date tour, with the aim of rocking Cardiff to its foundations and boy did they do just that. Supported by Death By Disco, The Rocket Dolls and Those Damn Crows, it was a night not to be missed and Midlands Metalheads Radio were there for you all. Cardiff band Death By Disco kicked the night off and this five-piece got the heads nodding and the feet tapping. Unfortunately, they only had a twenty minute slot and I think they need to be seen higher up the bill to get a true idea of what they’re about. Death By Disco The Rocket Dolls from Brighton are, and were, immense. In Nikki Smash, they have one of the most charismatic and confident frontmen in the business and he is ably supported by drummer Benji Knopfler and bassist Joe Constable (I so wanted him to say to the audience ‘Evening All’). For a three piece, they make an amazing sound and featured songs from their recent album ‘DeaDHeaD’. The title track and ‘None Of This Is Right’ are superb live and others showed just how tight and talented they are. Those Damn Crows couldn’t lose. Local boys (Bridgend to be exact), a new album out that a few days later hit the top 5 in the Rock Album Chart, numerous members of the audience sporting their t-shirts and a set that oozed quality. Even when there was a minor delay for a technical problem, they kept the crowd entertained. Frontman Shane Greenhall owns the stage (check out the interview we had with him below) and the band stormed through tracks from the new release ‘Murder And The Motive’. If you’re not singing along to the likes of ‘Rock n Roll Ain’t Dead’, ‘Don’t Give A Damn’ and ‘Blink Of An Eye’, check your pulse. Superb! https://midlandsmetalheads.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Shane-Greenhall-TDC-Interview.mp3 Those Damn Crows And so to Massive, touring ahead of the release of their third album ‘Rebuild Destroy’, out on February 1st 2019. We were treated to some new stuff from it, including the new single ‘Roses’, but don’t be fooled by the title – it rocks! They started off with ‘Blood Money Blues’ from their 2016 album ‘Destination Somewhere’ and that set the tone for the next hour – loud, dirty rock n roll. You know what you’re getting with Massive and the band t-shirts in the audience showed just how popular these Australians are. They don’t do individual dates, it’s a tour or nothing and whoever supports them, they deliver. Their debut album ‘Full Throttle’, gave us ‘Lacey’, ‘Bring Down The City’ and ‘Dancefloor’ and brand new songs ‘Long Time Coming’ and ‘What You Gonna Do’ show what to expect on ‘Rebuild Destroy’, bulldozing their way into your head. Two more newbies, ‘Generation Riot’ and the aforementioned ‘Roses’ are followed by favourites ‘Ghost’ and ‘One By One’. We even get ‘Highway Star’ and ‘Highway To Hell’ as well!!! Frontman Brad Marr is a great leader of proceedings – check out what he had to say on the interview below. https://midlandsmetalheads.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Massive-Fuel-Club-Interview.mp3 An excellent night, superb value for money and bands to keep your eye on! Pictures courtesy of Morag Farley Check out the full gallery below Massive, Those Damn Crows, The Rocket Dolls, Death By Disco brad marr, Death By Disco, fuel rock club, massive, Midlands Metalheads Radio, morag farley, shane greenhall, The Rocket Dolls, those damn crows, Tony Heare Review: Leprous B’ham 02 Institute, 23rd Sept 2018 Coheed And Cambria & Chon	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4204
__label__cc	0.524364	0.475636	Tagfilm avel-chuklanov-509630-unsplash Arts & Culture, Machine Learning 2018 AI Hype, AI-written scripts, film, Literature, Machine Learning, novels 2: AI Can Write Novels and Screenplays Better than the Pros! AI help, not hype: Software can automatically generate word sequences based on material fed in from existing scripts. But with what result? “AI rites reel gud!” Seriously, the idea is not new. Back in the 1940s, George Orwell (1903–1950) thought that a machine could write popular novels so long as no creative thinking was involved. Thus, in his 1984 police state world, one of the central characters has a job minding a machine that mass produces them. In the 1960s, some film experiments were done along these lines, using Westerns (cowboy stories). At the time, there were masses of formula-based film material to work with in this popular genre. But what does the product look and sound like? In 2016, Ars Technica was proud to sponsor “the first AI-written sci-fi script:” As explained in The Guardian, a recurrent neural network “was fed the Read More › peter-kent-32354-unsplash Artificial Intelligence, Arts & Culture Douglas T.Ross, expert systems, film, human uniqueness, hype, Natural Intelligence, screenwriting Screenwriters’ Jobs Are Not Threatened by AI Unless the public starts preferring mishmash to creativity An AI-generated film is not an altogether new idea. Rule-based expert systems were used to write short plays over a half century ago, in the early 1960's. Then, as now, don’t expect creativity. That is not what AI does.	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4206
__label__wiki	0.896621	0.896621	Tag Archives: The Stranglers Album reviews – John Ellis: ‘Sly Guitar’ (“a playful magpie interest”) John Ellis: ‘Sly Guitar’ A skilled and flexible working guitarist since the early 1970s (travelling through punk, post-punk, pub rock, rhythm-and-blues and progressive rock in no particular order), John Ellis has never curdled as a musician. What he’s avoided doing up to now is making a player’s album. Generally he’s been content to tweak a song’s architecture as a team member (in The Vibrators and the mark two Stranglers) or as a flexible, innovative sideman (delivering fanged electric churn for Peters Hammill and Gabriel, or airship noises and roaring-Twenties fanfares for Judge Smith). Even when left to his own devices, he’s stayed away from guitar heroics – often, away from the guitar itself. He’s fermented semi-ambient hubbub for art galleries, filtered Victorian Japonisms through electronica, and taken strides into multimedia, but left the protracted strutting and soloing alone. On ‘Sly Guitar’, however he returns to (and lays into) his main instrument with a sharp-clawed and swaggering stylishness. It’s the kind of performance that suggests he’s ripped the tail-fin off a 1950s Cadillac and carved a new guitar from it. Things are different this time. In some respects, the key to appreciating ‘Sly Guitar’ is knowing about John’s participation in a 2007 art prank, when he helped to fake a lost Hendrix rendition of the Welsh national anthem. While this particular stunt got his playing onto ‘Newsnight‘ – and was originally a joke about co-opting celebrities into random causes – viewed from here, it’s as much about the puckish and gleeful enjoyment which John gets out of playing guitar. Aspects of Ellis wit might show up on the records he’s worked on (qv. the intuitive bite of those Hammill albums, his thoughtful tricks with Smith, or the raw horse-laughs in his own rare solo songs), but a sense of liberated fun doesn’t always make it across. On ‘Sly Guitar’ it does. I said “player’s album” – I’m also suggesting that this is the record on which John Ellis finally lets it all hang out. That’s a little misleading. Discreetly virtuosic yet always understated, John’s technique is marked out by the lean, sharp economy he’s learned from years of punk and art-rock. There are also plenty of examples of his taste for bouncing around inside delay units, and for the blocky synthwork and drum loops explored on 2008’s ‘Map of Limbo’. The music’s also liberally slathered with John’s beloved EBow sustainer, transforming notes into assorted hoots and stuttering violin chugs, or pulling them out into taffee-lengths. These in turn blend in with ideas from all over the place. Fun notwithstanding, John’s art-school training consistently underlies his current approach (one track, with all irony intact, is called I Remember Futurism). He picks up odds-and-ends from the fashions and fads he’s seen pass by and reinterprets them with a playful magpie interest. The results blend an edgy and brittle flair with fastidious design, offset with a mischievous, practical form of musical adapt-and-reclaim. Many of the tunes on ‘Sly Guitar’ have much in common with old pop-instrumental albums. There are tinges of Joe Meek and of perky surf-guitar capsules from the ’60s; and of those meticulous prog-tinged jingles from the ’70s. But this is just part of an overall collage effect which plucks inspiration from Hendrix, Hank Marvin and John Williams, from Robert Fripp and John Martyn; even from the likes of Fred Frith and Henry Kaiser. It also suggests that over the years John has copped a listen to everything from ‘No Pussyfooting’ and ‘Temple Head’ to On-U Sound and Moby. At the least, he’s caught their echoes as they’ve seeped through airwaves or were circulated alongside technology. Certainly John’s thinking hard about latterday pop and accessibility; insistent club beats and nods to old crowd-pleasers drive much of the album. Pieces like Levitation and the eleven-minute title track sit on funk grooves with sleek flicks of rhythm guitar and curved, humming chromium lead lines. Snappily and space-ily rendered, the latter are recorded close enough to hear the speaker cones jumping and flattening while wellings of EBow sustain stack up behind like a pile of moonlit clouds. In the chop’n’chat of Farud Gets Electricity, John mixes a Latin loop and a dash of Stray Cats rockabilly into the recipe. Futuro’s leisurely boom-bat, wood-clack beat and clipped industrial framing recall a slimline version of Tackhead’s industrial hip-hop. Making the most of the album’s pop-up digital production sheen, it’s fleshed out by jawharp synth boings and fake horn stabs; its smoulder-point guitar lines hanging in the middle distance like burning ropes. The beats may be familiar, but the tweaked and ruffled electrophonic timbres which John uses to build up the tunes are less so. Pedalo is as rhythmic as anything else on the record (gliding atop a cavernous trip-hop loop and cracking dub snare) but its body is made up of a mongrel set of slotted-in guitar voices – fanfare tones of firefly and conch; power-growls of distorted fuzz; a pitch-shifted shrill of parade melody teetering on top. All of these come together in spite of themselves, an ill-matched platoon who’ve learned to march in step. Under a skywriting blast of EBow sustain, I Remember Futurism interweaves a rippling set of arpeggios, passing them between a calm sky-blue organ and a guitar which sounds like a harp made of iron girders. Embedded deep in the mix of the latter are the tinkling, caught-up accents of Brazilian cymbals and bells, and other pieces probe even deeper into worldbeat. Walking in the footsteps of Jon Hassell’s Fourth World Music, and of Transglobal Underground, John brews up vividly staged polycultural blends in which the frowning lines between ethnology and fraudulence, sympathy and exploitation might perhaps blur into irrelevance. His cyborg guitar tones counterpoint the eerie ornamented leaps of the Middle Eastern music he sources, undercutting its spiritual passion with impressionist sound-builds recalling insect swarms, oppressive heat, or the spine-crawling sense of secret surveillance. Hollowing out a Nile processional (on Don’t Be Misled By Your Eyes), he repacks it with drilling mosquito sounds, duetting Arabian slide lines and choral synths. The leisurely Levantine trip-hop of Flies elevates a souk-call vocal sample like a dreamy kite, but then subtly pollutes it with hovering swarms of static guitar buzz. These last are much like the withering drones employed by Robert Fripp on ‘Exposure’ back in 1979, painting threatening sonic portraits of decaying industrial landscapes. You could only speculate as to whether John’s applying these same ominous atmospherics to the torn cities of the Arab spring; the idea hangs heavy. Initially The Bowl Maker of Lhasa (framed by temple bells and further baleful Frippish insect buzzes and pitch-collapses) sounds as if it’s going to do something similarly politicized for Tibet. However, it rapidly returns to clear hip-hop and funk sources – the sleek dancing duel between stinging clean guitar and EBow whistle, the playful way it lifts and reshapes a sly quote from ‘Freddie’s Dead’ in the middle of its drum-machine swing. While there are a few left-field touches (such as a timbral shift which refracts the familiar street beats into something with a twist of copper and stained glass), perhaps it’s better just to enjoy the imaginative, enthusiastic sound-painting; and not to over-freight the pieces with too much extra meaning. The remaining tracks, though, bypass the club beats for a deeper exploration of John’s textural art-rock side. The brief roundabout of Echoplexing presents a bone-and-wood clatter of choppily-strummed flamenco guitar: echoing off to the sides of the soundfield, it joins stinging treble guitar lines and zipping insect sounds, stitched together by a child-chant organ part. The loop-and-splay Infanta shows John at his purest both as player and as music processor. Dialling up a sparkling silvery electric guitar tone, he begins the tune with Spanish classical inflections nestled in a sharp snappy reverb before abruptly leaving them to pulse and circle inside a loop-hang while he gets on with other business. He goes on to juggle a section of Hendrix jinks and transfigured rock’n’roll quotes; a countrified oud tone; elegant touches of shading, slurring and EBow elisions; a razor buzz bouncing in the background. Elsewhere, March Of The Kitchen Taps floats a cluster of hovering, uneasy guitar parts (floats, wails and squeals) against swishing electronics like ventilation fan-blades, and against massed samples of metallic taps and bangs which flutter, slice and nail the pulse down. Cue jokes about everything-and-the-kitchen-sink: Crow On A Dying Dog eggs these on further, blending even more twiddling kitchen metals with a bagful of plastic electronics – bass twangs, burbling random-pitched vocalise, synthesized big-band swing and blaring horn-guitar parts. As a flight of sampled rooks flap past, it sounds like a weird and wilful collision between suitcase synth-pop and bleak mediaeval soundtracks. It’s these particular pieces, in fact, that seal both the fate and triumph of ‘Sly Guitar’. Forks and taps aside, it is a kitchen-sink album: one which flea-jumps enthusiastically between slick beats and toy noises, easy funk and experimental chop-suey, clippable music and idiosyncratic personal sketches. John may have finally turned in his “player’s” album, but even this far along in the game he refuses to play it straight. Dipping in and out of formalism and fooling around, coursing around plug-ins and unravellings, he’s turned in an album which celebrates and fans out his plurality as a musician. Having mastered a humble, low-key chameleonic wilfulness – in which the appropriate art and the immediate idea directly shapes the method – he’s let it become part of him, even when he’s flexing free. Chanoyu Records, CHA002 CD/download album Released: 6th May 2013 Get it from: Chanoyu Records. John Ellis online: Tags: bright-toned optimism, cheap drum machines, EBow, electric guitar music, John Ellis, Judge Smith, London (England), old dog's new tricks, Peter Gabriel, Peter Hammill, slide guitar music, the fine art of sampling, The Stranglers, The Vibrators, twangy guitar Categories 2013 music, album reviews, art rock, crossover, cyberfunk, dance, electronic, experimental music, funk, hip hop, improvisation, industrial music, instrumental music, loop music, post-punk, reviews, rock, sampledelia, world & indigenous music, worldbeat Album reviews – John Ellis: ‘Spic’N’Span’ (“a minor treasury of passing ideas”) John Ellis: ‘Spic’N’Span’ The lifespans of pop musicians are usually measured in five-year units – generally just one each before they’re inserted into the “where are they now?” file. But for every ten who went into hostelry, college lecturing or millinery, one adapted and carried on the journey as best they could and perhaps saw how their talents and ideas could fit into the next stage. As guitarist, songwriter and sound-shaper John Ellis is hardly a household name, but his work and adaptability have both been consistent. He’s already discreetly chameleoned his way through three decades of music. A founder member of The Vibrators during the punk era, he went on to play an integral role in the Peter Hammill and Peter Gabriel bands over the cusp of the ’70s and ’80s. Links with Jean-Jacques Burnel eventually led him (along with Paul Roberts) into the post-Hugh-Cornwell Stranglers line-up; he developed an electronica sideline via his digressions into gallery music, There’s even a touch of prog beyond Gabriel and Hammill: John also plays guitar for Judge Smith’s ongoing “song-story” projects. John’s journeyman credentials are unquestionable, and to each position he’s brought his own supporting voice and particular marks. However, always being the lieutenant means some of your ideas bounce off the boss (or the inflexibility of circumstances) and get stashed away. ‘Spic’N’Span’ corralls together unheard odds’n’sods from John’s curvy journey through music, and consequently it’s a musical scrapbook rather than an album. A third of the tunes are the kind of thing that many working musicians knock out for TV music library discs – bright jingles and “we’re going somewhere” music, executed on cupboard synth orchestras. The synthetic Euro-funk/perky testcard tunes of Wild Talent and Tune-O-Matic fall into this category; as do the flying-over- mountains melody of Early Riding Daddy, the New Age-y pop march of The Needs Of The Soul and the rather more ambitious baroque-jazz stylings of Running Through The Trees. Still… behind many of these you can hear little pop chicks trying to hatch out of the multi-track demos, hoping to drop into the collective lap of an ’80s boy band, to do that five-year round; and to then cheat death by popping up in a nostalgia DJs record box, taking a ride on a revival. It might not have actually happened, but then the business of selling songs has always been a bit of a lottery. Another third of ‘Spic’N’Span’ is a set of genuine ’80s pop songs. All of these are produced in the squeaky-clean studio fashion of the time; but all are executed with the restraint, intelligence and puritanical zeal of post-punk. The pin-sharp shimmy of John’s guitar is the linking factor – wailing away on E-bow sustain, sparking off claw-hand finger-picking, or adroitly yanked from note to note. Three of these songs are sung by Alex Legg – his spooky vocal resemblance to Peter Gabriel shows us how things might have been had Gabriel and Ellis joined forces and run off together into the showy pop territory eventually colonised by Tears For Fears instead. The Space Between Us (a soulful, regretful R’n’B lament of hostility, injustice and enmity) could easily have fitted onto an album like ‘So’. Similarly, Joe Jackson would have been proud to have written the pumping Monopoly (the biting list song of an abusive marriage, a woman’s increasingly desperate attempts to escape it, and the grim consequences). Off on its own, the John Greaves-ish piano song Mumble Jumble (pointing up the Ellis art-school/art-rock background) ponders the confusions and blocks of language. Two more songs are sung by John himself. Giving Up The Ghost, with its airbrushed console-blues sound and phantom horn section, strives after the authenticity of roots Americana only to arrive as a Eurythmics B-side instead. But the glinty, polished Elevator Man (which sounds more like Steve Harley doing J-pop) works better, capturing the arch giddiness of stardom from a slight but crucial degree of separation. “I went from rags to riches, from riches to rags. / I was an overnight sensation.” Then there’s a third section: a couple of tunes which seem to be trying for the early ’80s link between electro, hip-hop, and primitive British synth pop. Such is the buzz and piping of Stutter Gun with its earnest, uptight vocal samples and its synaesthesic theme: “it’s beautiful… the colours will flash… the sounds will embrace you.” Jimi Jam studs its gurgling electro with little sampled Hendrix asides – “Hey, what’s happening?… Oh no, I think I’m out of tune.” Discreetly decorated with wobbling wails of clean sustained feedback, it’s so cheerfully plastic when compared to Hendrix’s controlled brinksmanship that it has to be a piss-take. There are also a couple of genuine, delightful misfit chunks in the stew. The panoramic zither chug of One Way Street walks in step with Trans-Global Underground in its mess of world beats, the spine-shivering harmonies of crowd hums from old Lomax recordings, and the Republic serial dialogue snippets (“All the streets are one way!”; “What better way to commemorate the dead?”). John performs a solo joke on The Best Part Of The Cabbage: woozy slide guitar and sleepy voice shambling out a ramshackle joke-blues on cannibalism. (“Looking at you, I lick my lips…”) The sensuous laziness of the tune offsets the wonderfully appalling humour: “If you ain’t got a fridge yet, there’s not much on a midget – / a mouthful, or two.” A minor treasury of passing ideas, ‘Spic’N’Span’ will never be more than a curio, but one that remains open and friendly throughout. Furious Productions (no catalogue number or barcode) CD-only album Best obtained second-hand: this was released as a very-limited-edition run of 50 copies, so it’s extremely rare. Tags: EBow, electric guitar music, intriguingly mixed bags, John Ellis, London (England), The Stranglers, The Vibrators, twangy guitar Categories 1999 music, album reviews, art rock, electronic, experimental music, instrumental music, pop, post-punk, reviews, rock, sampledelia	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4207
__label__wiki	0.561299	0.561299	Morethodoxy: Exploring the Breadth, Depth and Passion of Orthodox Judaism Optional Morethodoxy Sites Guest Post by Dr. Ben Elton: “Walter Wurzberger on the Boundaries of Orthodoxy” The Jewish internet has been alive over recent months with attempts to draw denominational boundaries. In particular there has been much discussion about whether Open Orthodoxy, the cluster of ideas coming from Rabbi Avi Weiss and Yeshivat Chovevei Torah, is an expression of Orthodox or Conservative Judaism. This is a problematic question. It implies there are Platonic forms of Orthodoxy and Conservatism which can be measured against the facts on the ground and an adjudication made. In fact, all Jewish denominations are creations of particular times and places and can only be understood in those contexts. Another approach is to ask whether specified views and methodologies are valid expressions of authentic Judaism, or whether they constitute a break with the Mesorah, the chain of tradition beginning at Sinai. However, that is not a historical but a religious question. We each have our own view on what is ‘valid’ and ‘authentic’ and those commitments do not derive from scholarship but from faith. I am a historian, so I am drawn to a third approach, which is to ask whether Open Orthodoxy adopts the same principles as earlier religious expressions, which were generally regarded as Orthodox. I want to use an important review essay by Rabbi Dr Walter S. Wurzberger, ‘The Oral Law and the Conservative Dilemma’, which appeared in Tradition in 1960.[1] This article is pertinent for our purposes because it attempts to explain exactly what differentiates Modern Orthodoxy from Conservative Judaism, even in the latter’s most traditionalist form. It does not concentrate on practices among members of the two movements, or even on different halakhic rulings emanating from each. Rather it examines the theological and philosophical underpinnings of each denomination. If Open Orthodoxy shares the principles set out by Wurzberger and accepted by the then Modern Orthodox community as a valid definition of its position, it follows that while the spokespeople for Open Orthodoxy might be mistaken in some regards, and their halakhic positions might be considered wrong, even reckless, they remain within accepted definitions of Orthodoxy, because of the understanding of the Mesorah which guides them. Wurzberger’s article was a review of Boaz Cohen’s Law and Tradition in Judaism (New York, Jewish Theological Seminary 1959), which attempted to explain the Conservative approach to halakhah. Cohen’s halakhic conclusions were extremely traditionalist in this work. He rejected important decisions of the Committee on Jewish Law of the Conservative Movement’s Rabbinical Assembly as against halakhah, for example riding in a car to the synagogue on Shabbat and mixed seating in services. He therefore could not be criticised for undue leniency in practice. Wurzberger therefore critiqued the very foundations of Cohen’s approach. In Wurzberger’s reading, Cohen believed that as the Rabbis developed the Oral Law they modified the original law, either deliberately to adapt to the needs of the time, or inadvertently because they did not understand the texts they were dealing with. In other words, the Sages effectively created the halakhah as we have it today. They were innovators, even if they appeared to themselves or others to be merely expounding and applying. Ultimately Jewish Law as we have it did not grow out of an original revelation but was the invention of the Rabbis. Whether this is an accurate description of Cohen’s position is not important for our purposes. What matters for this discussion is the Orthodox position which Wurzberger placed in contrast, an approach which represented the mainstream Modern Orthodoxy of his day. Long before the advent of the Historical school, the traditionalists fully recognized that they were entrusted with a Torat Chayyim – a living Law…Because the halakhic process is characterized by a continuous interaction between subjective and objective components, it is natural that changes in historical conditions will lead to far reaching repercussions in the realm of Halakhah. This is not at all a question of “adapting” or “adjusting” the law to meet novel conditions, but of interpreting and applying it within the frame of reference of new circumstances…It must be borne in mind that this dynamic character of the law is an integral part of the Massorah, the chain of tradition dating back to Sinai , not something that was grafted upon the Torah later on to prevent its obsolescence and decay…It is the function of the Halakhah scholar, employing creative halakhic processes, to unravel the specific meaning which the timeless message of Sinai holds for his own time. Rabbi Wurzberger wrote so clearly that a gloss would be redundant. Rather, we can turn immediately and compare this understanding of the Mesorah with Rabbi Weiss’s, which he put forward in his article on the graduation from Yeshivat Maharat of students ordained as clergy: Mesorah is not solely rooted in the past. Rather our mesorah is, that within proper parameters, we ought to innovate to address the issues of our time and continue the work. This innovation is not straying from mesorah, it is demanded by it. This involves two steps. The first step is to assess the law and evaluate whether it is in conflict with other central principles of Torah. Consider, for example, the Torah’s position on polygamy, slavery or yefat to’ar, the laws of a female war-captive. These laws seem in conflict with other values of Torah, values like tzelem Elohim – every human being created in the image of God or kavod ha-bryiot – human dignity or kedoshim ti’hiyu – and you shall be holy. If conflict exists, mesorah includes a second step: a systematic means by which halakha can evolve. The Torah makes this very point when it declares that in every generation, when challenging issues arise, one is to go to the judge of his or her generation. (Deuteronomy 17:8-9) Mesorah includes a sophisticated network of rabbinic law, some interpretive (dinin she-ho’tzi’u al darkei hasevara) and some legislative (takanot u’gezeirot). After an extensive, in-depth analysis of the law, new applications may be possible. This is classic Wurzbergian analysis. The Mesorah draws its strength from the Torah itself, it allows timeless principles to be applied to the needs of the day, it enables the full realization, through careful thought, of the original wishes of the Torah, which will reveal themselves differently in each generation, sometimes leading to ‘far reaching repercussions in the realm of halakhah’. One can argue whether Rabbi Weiss has made the right judgement about women’s roles, but it is difficult to claim that his basic approach to change within Judaism and the role of the Mesorah is substantively different to approaches which were not only accepted but promoted in Modern Orthodox circles half a century ago. Not all self-identified Modern Orthodox rabbis maintain this understanding of the Mesorah and the way it works. That may explain a difference of view between the most distinguished representative of the old school and a representative of the new. In 2009 Rabbi Dr Norman Lamm was reported as follows in the Jerusalem Post: Regarding the ordination of female rabbis, Lamm said his opposition was “social, not religious…Change has to come to religion when feasible, but it should not be rushed. Women have just come into their own from an educational perspective. I would prefer not to have this innovation right now. It is simply too early. What will happen later…I am not a prophet.” He clarified his remarks shortly afterwards to the YU Commentator: “I was criticized, of course. People asked, ‘You mean that al pi din [by law] they’re allowed to become rabbis?’ My response: ‘I don’t know. Are you sure they’re not allowed to?” Rabbi Lamm went on to say, however, “It is too early to tell where this is all headed and I think they are moving much too quickly. Do I think having women rabbis is a good thing? I do not know. I am, however, concerned that, before long, we will find ourselves overly feminized, and I would not want to see that happen.” Rabbi Lamm’s words were recently characterized as a mis-speak due to failing powers. In fact they seem to match entirely the approach of his old colleague Walter Wurzberger. The Mesorah has the capacity to make far reaching halakhic changes, all of them rooted in the revelation at Sinai. Whether they should be made, or should be made now, is a different matter. This is a very different point of view to the one implied by this statement, also reported in the Commentator: The RCA’s Rabbi Kletenik, however, was unequivocal. “To ordain a woman as a rabbi,” he told The Jewish Press, “is a breach of our mesorah and not acceptable in an Orthodox synagogue.” It is entirely reasonable to take a different view of the boundary between Orthodoxy and non-Orthodoxy and on the workings of the Mesorah. People always did. Wurzberger described his section of Orthodoxy as a ‘tiny but articulate minority’. However, it is not fair to claim that the understanding held by Rabbi Weiss and others associated with Open Orthodoxy has no precedent. The application might be wrong, and that is something to debate as part of an internal Orthodox conversation, but to call it neo-Conservative would come as a great surprise to one of Conservative Judaism’s great critics, Walter Wurzberger. Dr. Ben Elton is a student at YCT Rabbinical School [1] Tradition in 1960 (3:1), just before Wurzberger became editor of the journal, and was reprinted in A Treasury of “Tradition” (ed. Norman Lamm and Walter S. Wurzberger, New York: Hebrew Publishing Company 1967, pp. 436-443). I am not the first person to identify Wurzberger and this article. See Alan Brill, ‘A Tiny but Articulate Minority’ (Tradition 41:2, 2008) This entry was posted on Wednesday, November 20th, 2013 at 3:28 AM and is filed under Jewish Thought. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site. 11 Responses to Guest Post by Dr. Ben Elton: “Walter Wurzberger on the Boundaries of Orthodoxy” Shlomoh says: And what do you think Rav Wurzberger and his mentor, Rav Soloveitchik, would have thought of granting Orthodox semicha (“Open” or otherwise) to individuals who deny that HASHEM spoke to Moshe Rabbeinu, something that even most Conservative Rabbis would not have publicly said in 1960, when this essay was published? Harry Freedman says: Louis Jacobs’s book A Tree of Life details many case studies of the evolution of halakah l’maaseh evolved It implies there are Platonic forms of Orthodoxy and Conservatism which can be measured against the facts on the ground and an adjudication made. Incorrect premises tend to lead to incorrect conclusions. It doesn’t imply anything of the sort. We aren’t talking about Platonic forms; we’re talking about boundaries. Orthodox Judaism is a wealth of different forms. But they all exist within certain absolute boundaries. One of those boundaries, if not the most critical of them all, is the axiom that the Torah, written and oral, was given to Moshe at Sinai, and that we have a direct chain of transmission — of continuity — from that time until today. וזאת התורה אשר שם משה לפני בני ישראל על פי ה’ ביד משה. We say this at least 4 times every week, and it isn’t a midrashic statement; it’s a simple statement of a core concept that is so integral and fundamental that it’s never been a matter of dispute. Today, there are some ostensibly Orthodox Jews who, either lacking the self-esteem to insist on what we know to be True in the face of academic theories to the contrary, or lacking the patience to say, “We don’t know exactly how to resolve apparent conflicts yet”, have bowed to the pressure of western culture and have crossed this most absolute of boundaries. Even the Conservative Movement didn’t go that far at its inception. It was wrong in that it gave tens of thousands of Jews moral support for their failure to observe mitzvot, but it took decades for it to actually cross this line. The movement represented by YCT has moved much faster. Micha Berger says: To reinforce: The idea Zev Farber is trying to justify is one Solomon Schechter considered heretical. “The Bible is our sole raison d’être, and it is just this which the Higher anti-Semitism is seeking to destroy, denying all our claims for the past, and leaving us without hope for the future.” The IRF’s stance is less rigid than Schechters, leaving us with fading hope for its future. OccamsElectricShaver says: Perhaps I should read Rabbi Dr. Wurzburger’s article before commenting but there is nothing in what is cited in your article which implies that there are no additional necessary criteria for being defined (or described, if the platonic forms implied by a definition don’t sit well with you) as Orthodox, perhaps in the realm of halakhic practice. As you point out, Boaz Cohen was very conservative (small ‘c’) when it came to practice and halakhic application, and as such R’ Wurzburger had to discuss his philosophy of the halakhah process in order to identify his divergence from Orthodoxy. It can very well be the case that R’ Wurzburger would have also contended that a person or school of thought which meets the criteria for Orthodoxy in the realm of its philosophy of the halakhah process would still need to meet criteria in the realm of halakhic practice to be described as Orthodox. I’m not saying that’s the case, but I don’t believe that what is quoted in this article can be taken to imply that Open Orthodoxy in all of its aspects has historical precedent. Joel Salomon says: On the topic of “new circumstances”, I suggest that OO is misusing the term—or at least using it in contexts where traditional, orthodox, thinkers would not: The environment in which we follow the Torah has changed in many ways, and we must try to apply God’s eternal Law to advances in technology & medicine, and to different ways business is transacted. The particulars of the application to “new circumstances” are subject to the halachik process, and to machlokes, but the adaptation of application per se is (nearly) uncontroversial. But changes in peoples’ attitudes are not the same thing. If people desire that which the Torah prohibits, or which chazal forbade—or even “merely” that which is incompatible with the mesorah as commonly observed—these are not “new circumstances” but new endostances; and it behooves us to carefully consider whether it is these internal conditions, or the mesorah, that should give way. “The Jewish internet has been alive over recent months with attempts to draw denominational boundaries.” More accurately, to prevent attempts at their erasure. (Basically paraphrasing Shlomoh’s point. And as Lisa noted, we are speaking up when “have crossed this most absolute of boundaries.” The boundary is ancient and one of Orthodoxy’s defining features.) Reb Yid says: Did you mean to quote a different passage from Rabbi Wurzberger? Because what you quoted is completely unrelated to what Weiss wrote. To understand that the Torah is living doesn’t mean that we throw one part of the Torah against another, pick the one part that we like (perhaps because secular morality has selected that portion for us), and discard the other. e. pruzhaner (@pruzhaner) says: I agree that the quotes don’t match up. Wurzburger is not discussing alleged conflicts between Torah laws and values. The Avi Weiss quote sounds a lot more like David Hartman’s approach, which is not generally considered orthodox, because it allows the interpreter to reject laws that he considers to go against “central values” of the Torah. Ironically, other parts of Wurzburger’s article would be more relevant, but would lead to the opposite conclusions, e.g.: “Marshall Sklare, the astute analyst of the Conservative movement, has called attention to the striking ambivalence in the attitudes of many Conservative scholars. Intellectually, they whole heartedly embrace the “scientific,” “positive-historical” approach. Emotionally, they cannot cut the umbilical cord which ties them to the practices of Orthodox Judaism… “Professor Cohen’s ambivalence towards Orthodoxy is matched by his ambiguity in the exposition of his own views. There is no way of gleaning from his writings whether he subscribes to the rabbinic doctrine that the words of the Pentateuch were “literally” inspired. Although committed to “the divine origin of the Law,” the author leaves us considerable doubt whether he is prepared to regard Moses as anything more than an “inspired Lawgiver.” If Boaz Cohen considered Moses to be an inspired lawgiver, he was already more orthodox than those who deny the existence of Moses while claiming to be orthodox. DRL says: I am not sure your argument holds water as there are many within the conservative movement that would agree with R Weiss and claim it as their own ideology. The bottom line is whether the leaders of Open Orthodoxy are putting actions in place to define in a specific philosophical framework, with clear directives and organised principles, what they are trying to achieve. If they leave this open ended and allow another generation to innovate as to the fundamental direction of their movement, they have to be absolutely confident in the next generation’s ability to do this, and future generations. Otherwise they should make it clear what the limits are. Mr. Cohen says: Even if Open Orthodoxy is not yet a kind of neo-Conservative-Judaism, its critics may argue that it appears to be moving in that direction. Leave a Reply to DRL Cancel reply Morethodoxy is a project of the International Rabbinic Fellowship. Opinions expressed are those of the individual authors, not of the Fellowship or its leadership. 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__label__cc	0.589981	0.410019	Posted September 12, 2018 by Leo Nulty News ON THE ROAD- IAN LYNAS DRIVES THE NEW MAZDA MX-5 Regardless of age, the Mazda MX-5 is a firm favourite and now we have the latest version of this small affordable sportscar and would you believe it has been a part of the motoring scene since 1989. There is little doubt that it took the motoring world by storm. A lightweight, compact, open topped two seater with a front mounted engine driving through the rear wheels, for many enthusiasts the correct menu. With perfect 50:50 weight distribution, a low moment of inertia for maximum agility, little wonder it was a hit around the world. It became a popular choice for all ages. The second generation model was launched in 1998, a third in 2005 and the fourth in 2015 and not to forget the MX-5RF launched just two years ago. When production reached 531,890 units in May 2000, the MX-5 was certified by Guinness World Records as the world’s best-selling two-seat roadster in history. Total production passed the 1,000,000 mark in April 2016, and the MX-5’s Guinness certification was updated to icon status. B ringing the story right up to date, the latest version with refinements to design and packaging, improvements to dynamic performance and an upgrade to Mazda’s i-ACTIVSENSE safety technologies. There are improvements to the advanced SKYACTIV-G two litre petrol engine with higher maximum engine speed, increased power and torque output, whilst the advanced SKYACTIV-G 1.5 litre petrol unit delivers higher torque combined with excellent fuel efficiency and environmental performance. The upgraded two litre engine will initially be offered exclusively in the new range-topping GT Sport Nav+ trim in both the RF and convertible, while SE-L Nav+ and Sport Nav+ 184ps models will go on sale later in the Autumn. The other power choice is the 1.5-litre SKYACTIV-G engine which benefits from improved combustion and reduced internal friction to see a slight power increase to 132PS and a moderate torque improvement to 152Nm while at the same time retaining its superb efficiency and fuel economy. I did not get the opportunity to try the smaller engine; but I must add that the six speed manual transmission is one of the sweetest currently on the market. The MX-5 is the sort of car that you would make an excuse to get behind the wheel. At the launch, Mazda certainly gave every opportunity to put the new baby through its paces with some very demanding roads. Ones that almost seemed tailored for the MX-5. I was able to get behind the wheel of a two litre version over a route which took in counties Armagh, Tyrone, Fermanagh, Cavan, Leitrim, Roscommon and Donegal. The two litre with 184PS delivers torque aplenty and while performance is not stunning, rest to 100kph in less than seven seconds, in a way that does not seem to matter as it is the handling and fun element which shines through. There are a welcome number of design enhancements which include new alloy wheel colours and thankfully the profile of the little Japanese two seater has not been altered, to have done that would most certainly have destroyed its character. On-board ergonomics have also been improved through the introduction of telescopic steering wheel adjustment, a more positive seat recline action and easier door opening. Safety is always a major factor and there are five new i-ACTIVSENSE safety technologies which deliver greater piece of mind. Advanced Smart City Brake Support which detects vehicles and pedestrians ahead and helps avoid collisions, Smart City Brake Support (Reverse) which detects vehicles and obstacles behind, as well as Driver Attention Alert, a Traffic Sign Recognition System and a Rear View Camera. Summing up, if you are in the market for a two seater, albeit lacking in luggage carrying ability, then look no further than Mazda! Ian Lynas Tweet to @IanLynas i-ACTIVSENSE, Ian Lynas, Mazda, Mazda MX-5, On The Road, ontheroad.ie, SKYACTIV-G Previous Previous post: LEINSTER TROPHY – 75TH ANNIVERSARY FACTS & FIGURES- By Brian Manning Next Next post: Mick Schumacher scores third F3 win in five races Motorsport.ie ON THE ROAD- IAN LYNAS DRIVES THE NEW MAZDA MX-5	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4213
__label__cc	0.539691	0.460309	Stefan Müller I am a Postdoctoral Researcher in the Department of Political Science at the University of Zurich, and hold a PhD in Political Science from Trinity College Dublin. My research focuses on the interactions between parties, voters, and the media. More precisely, I reassess the concept of election pledges, analyse the circumstances under which political parties decide to make promises, claim credit or attribute blame, and examine how the media report on election promises. Additionally, I am involved in projects on public opinion, coalition prediction, legislative behaviour, the incumbency advantage, parties’ campaign communication, and the impact of digital media on direct democratic campaigns. Methodologically, I develop and validate tools for the efficient and reliable combination of human coding and machine learning. Moreover, with a team of researchers at the Swiss National Science Foundation, I leverage supervised classification to explain variation in the thoroughness and helpfulness in journal peer reviews. I am a core contributor to the quanteda R package, Training Advisor of the Quanteda Initiative, and author of extensive tutorials on quantitative text analysis. I am affiliated with the Digital Democracy Lab and co-founder of Zurich Text as Data. My work has been published in Political Science Research and Methods, Electoral Studies, the Journal of Elections, Public Opinion and Parties, the International Journal of Performance Analysis in Sport, and the Journal of Open Source Software. Stefan Müller and Tom Louwerse. Forthcoming. “The Electoral Cycle Effect in Parliamentary Democracies.” Political Science Research and Methods (online first). Does government party support decline in a monotonic fashion throughout the legislative cycle or do we observe a u-shaped ‘electoral cycle effect’? Moving beyond the study of midterm election results, this is the first study to assess the cyclical pulse of government party support in parliamentary democracies based on over 25,000 voting intention polls from 171 cycles in 22 countries. On average, government parties lose support during the first half of the electoral cycle, but at most partially recover from their initial losses. Under single-party government and when prime ministers control cabinet dissolution, support tends to follow the previously assumed u-shaped pattern more strongly. Finally, we find that government parties hardly recover from early losses since the 2000s. Stefan Müller and Michael Jankowski. 2019. “Do Voters Really Prefer More Choice? Determinants of Support for Personalised Electoral Systems.” Journal of Elections, Public Opinion and Parties 29(2): 262–281. Which voters prefer having more choice between parties and candidates in an election? To provide an answer to this question, we analyse the case of a radical change from a closed-list PR system to a highly complex open-list PR system with cumulative voting in the German states of Bremen and Hamburg. We argue that the approval of a personalised electoral system is structured in similar ways as support for direct democracy. Using representative surveys conducted prior to all four state elections under cumulative voting in 2011 and 2015, we analyse which individual factors determine the approval, disapproval or indifference towards the new electoral law. The results indicate that younger voters as well as supporters of left parties are much more likely to support a personalised electoral system. In contrast to previous studies, political interest only has an impact on the indifference towards the electoral system. More generally, our results show that a large proportion of voters does not appreciate personalised preferential electoral systems which seems to be a result of the complexity and magnitude of choice between parties and candidates. Kenneth Benoit, Kohei Watanabe, Haiyan Wang, Paul Nulty, Adam Obeng, Stefan Müller, and Akitaka Matsuo. 2018. “quanteda: An R Package for the Quantitative Analysis of Textual Data.” Journal of Open Source Software 3(30): 774. quanteda is an R package providing a comprehensive workflow and toolkit for natural language processing tasks such as corpus management, tokenization, analysis, and visualization. It has extensive functions for applying dictionary analysis, exploring texts using keywords-in-context, computing document and feature similarities, and discovering multi-word expressions through collocation scoring. Based entirely on sparse operations, it provides highly efficient methods for compiling document-feature matrices and for manipulating these or using them in further quantitative analysis. Using C++ and multi-threading extensively, quanteda is also considerably faster and more efficient than other R and Python packages in processing large textual data. Shaun Bowler, Gail McElroy, and Stefan Müller. 2018. “Voter Preferences and Party Loyalty under Cumulative Voting: Political Behaviour after Electoral Reform in Bremen and Hamburg.” Electoral Studies 51: 93–102. Many electoral systems constrain voters to one or two votes at election time. Reformers often see this as a failing because voters’ preferences are both broader and more varied than the number of choices allowed. New electoral systems therefore often permit more preferences to be expressed. In this paper we examine what happens when cumulative voting is introduced in two German states. Even when we allow for tactical considerations, we find that the principle of unconstrained choice is not widely embraced by voters, although in practice, too, many seem to have preferences for more than just one party. This finding has implications for arguments relating to electoral reform as well as how to conceive of party affiliations in multi-party systems. Liam Kneafsey and Stefan Müller. 2018. “Assessing the Influence of Neutral Grounds on Match Outcomes.” International Journal of Performance Analysis in Sport 18(6): 892–905. The home advantage in various sports has been well documented. So far, we lack knowledge whether playing in neutral venues indeed removes many, if not all, theoretically assumed advantages of playing at home. Analysing over 3,500 senior men’s Gaelic football and hurling matches – field games with the highest participation rates in Ireland – between 2009 and 2018, we test the potential moderating influence of neutral venues. In hurling and Gaelic football, a considerable share of matches is played at neutral venues. We test the influence of neutral venues based on descriptive statistics, and multilevel logistic and multinomial regressions controlling for team strength, the importance of the match, the year, and the sport. With predicted probabilities ranging between 0.8 and 0.9, the favourite team is very likely to win home matches. The predicted probability drops below 0.6 for away matches. At neutral venues, the favourite team has a predicted probability of winning of 0.7. A Coarsened Exact Matching (CEM) approach also reveals very substantive and significant effects for the “treatment” of neutral venues. Overall, neutral venues appear to be an under-utilised option for creating fairer and less predictable competition, especially in single-game knockout matches. Kohei Watanabe and Stefan Müller. 2019. Quanteda Tutorials. https://tutorials.quanteda.io. Papers Under Review Media Coverage of Campaign Promises Throughout the Electoral Cycle [Revise and Resubmit]. A growing body of work concludes that governments fulfill a majority of their campaign pledges. However, only a minority of voters believes that politicians try to keep their promises, and many voters struggle to accurately recall the fulfillment or breaking of salient campaign pledges. I argue that this disparity between the public perception and empirical evidence is partially driven by the information voters receive in the media. I expect that only few statements on promises mention the fulfillment or breaking of a pledge, and that news outlets focus more on broken than on fulfilled promises. Additionally, I posit that partisan tabloids employ more positive sentiment in statements about promises when the endorsed party holds office. Based on a new text corpus of over 480,000 sentences on political promises published in 25 newspapers during 33 electoral cycles in Australia, Canada, Ireland, and the United Kingdom, I find support for these expectations. Across the four countries, newspapers report between 1.5 and 2 times more on broken than on fulfilled promises. Moreover, newspapers tend to express more negative sentiment in statements on promises when the endorsed party is not in government. The results have important implications for studying negative information in mass media, election pledges, and the linkage between voters and parties. Campaigns and the Selection of Policy-Seeking Representatives (with Shaun Bowler and Gail McElroy) [Revise and Resubmit]. Can voters learn meaningful information about candidates from their electoral campaigns? As with job market hiring, voters, like employers, cannot know the productivity of candidates, challengers in particular, when they elect them. The real productivity of representatives only reveals itself after the election. We explore if the information revealed during the ‘hiring process’ is a good signal of the legislative effort of elected representatives. In the incomplete information environment of election campaigns candidates should turn to credible signals to indicate their “type” to voters. Campaigns – and campaigning – are means by which candidates can, in principle, signal their motivations to voters. Is a candidate’s behaviour on the campaign trail informative about their behaviour and effort as a legislator? Does it, for example, reveal whether a candidate is more policy-seeking than office seeking? Using evidence from the European Parliament we show that campaign activity prior to the election is not related to policy-seeking behaviour in the legislature post-election. The finding also holds in two national-level settings and across a variety of measures of legislative effort. Those who campaign harder do seem more likely to win the election, but campaign effort seems to provide a poor guide to what the winner does once elected. Retrospective and Prospective Campaign Communication. (Winner of the 2018 Manifesto Corpus Conference Best Paper Award) Citizens attribute credit and blame to political parties and politicians when casting their ballot. However, previous comparative research has not studied how parties react to retrospective voting behavior by strategically referring to the past and present. Leveraging human coding with supervised machine learning, I uncover retrospective and prospective rhetoric in 568 party manifestos, published before 142 elections in nine countries between 1953 and 2017. Parties devote, on average, around half of their manifestos to descriptions of the past and present. Ideologically extreme parties employ substantively more retrospective rhetoric than moderate parties. Conducting separate analyses for retrospective and prospective statements, I refine two recently published studies. Incumbents and opposition parties only differ with regard to sentiment and concreteness in retrospective statements, which highlights the importance of temporal rhetoric when drawing conclusions about non-positional campaign communication. The results contribute to our understanding of representation, party competition, and responsibility attribution. Reassessing an Established Concept Through Crowd-Sourced Text Coding. A growing body of research analyses whether crowd workers can reproduce the ‘gold standard’ of expert-generated data. Based on the case of election pledges, I show how crowd-coding can also test for differences in perceptions of a concept between groups of experts and instructed non-experts. Comparing the most extensive reliability exercise carried out by nine pledge scholars to 3,660 codings generated by 90 crowd workers reveals considerable disagreement within and between both groups. Moreover, the carefully instructed and continuously monitored non-experts have a much broader understanding of election promises, which has important implications for analysing pledge fulfilment. The approach illustrates that crowd-coding could be used across all subfields of political science to reassess the measurement validity of a concept. Scalable Analysis of Political Text Using Machine Learning (with Kenneth Benoit, Patrick Chester, and Michael Laver). Estimating policy positions from political text is a core element in many empirical analyses of political competition. This has traditionally been achieved using classical content analysis, which requires (costly) human experts to read and make judgements about all text in some corpus. Benoit et al. (2016) showed that crowd workers can label political texts as effectively as experts, but much faster and more cheaply. However, crowdsourced text analysis still requires judgements about every sentence in every text by multiple crowd workers, limiting its scalability to large text corpora. Unsupervised machine learning requires human “curation” of texts based on policy content, to allow ex-post human interpretation of results. Supervised machine learning methods, in contrast, leverage a relatively small training set of text labelled by humans, whether experts or crowd workers, to analyze a potentially huge volume of text out of sample, making this a much more scalable research tool. In this paper, we evaluate the effectiveness of different supervised machine learning algorithms using training sets labelled by humans, whether experts or crowd workers, to analyze both party manifestos and legislative speeches. We first replicate a widely used left-right scale derived from classical text analysis by human experts. We then exploit the flexibility crowd sourced labels to estimate “new” policy dimensions. Our results are encouraging, suggesting that supervised machine learning based on limited training data is a viable, fast, cheap and scalable method for analyzing large political text corpora out of sample. Coalition Formation Expectations (with Shaun Bowler and Gail McElroy). In coalition settings, when voters cast a ballot do they have a sense of who will form the government? The answer to this question is of relevance to questions of accountability; voters may well vote against a particular incumbent government but presumably would like some sense of what alternative will replace it. The answer to this question is also relevant to the literature on strategic voting in multi party systems. Do voters’ expectations influence their vote choice? To date, the studies which explore this question of voter anticipation largely compare across national contexts and thus contain a great deal of institutional and cultural variation which muddies the focus on expectations. For this reason, we use pre-election surveys from 19 German state elections between 2009 and 2017, in addition to three federal elections, to explore how voters form expectations in multi-party settings. We observe large variation in the ability of voters to predict actual government formation, ranging from 10 to 75 per cent. Both on the national and the subnational level we find robust evidence for ‘wishful thinking’ when predicting a government. We also find that public opinion polls heavily influence voter expectations about government formation. Our results have implications for the role of strategic voting in multiparty settings and, also, for an understanding of the ‘simple act of voting’ in complex settings. Challenger Quality as a Moderator of the Incumbency Advantage: Evidence From a Natural Experiment in the Republic of Ireland from 1942 to 2014 (with Michael Jankowski). This paper provides a two-fold contribution to the literature on the incumbency advantage in proportional representation systems. Specifically, we focus on the case of local elections in Ireland in the time period from 1942 to 2014. In doing so, we can address two research questions. Firstly, existing studies have found rather mixed findings regarding the existence of an incumbency advantage in local elections. Second, we exploit the special `dual mandate’ characteristic of Irish local elections. Until 1999, members of the national parliament were allowed to be represented in local and national parliaments simultaneously. This allows us to analyze how the presence of a high-quality list competitor influences the magnitude of the incumbency advantage. By applying the Regression Discontinuity Design, we find that the size of the incumbency bonus on the local level is very similar to Irish national elections. We further demonstrate that this advantage is significantly weaker under the presence of a high-quality list competitor, and that the strength of the incumbency increased after the dual mandate was abolished. The results suggest that future research on incumbency effects under proportional representation should pay more attention to the quality of challengers who are not among the close winners and losers. Those Were the Days: Identifying and Explaining Nostalgia in Parties’ Campaign Communication (with Sven-Oliver Proksch). Does Issue Emphasis in Election Campaigns Correspond to Politicians’ Legislative Behaviour? Evidence from Japan between 2003 and 2017 (with Naofumi Fujimura and Daisuke Hakiai). Dual Mandate, One Topic? Explaining Constituency Focus in Parliamentary Speeches in the Republic of Ireland (with Michael Jankowski). Right-Wing Populism and Social Media in Direct Democratic Campaigns (with Fabrizio Gilardi, Clau Dermont, and Theresa Gessler). If you would like to get access to the latest version of a paper, feel free to send me an e-mail. Quanteda Initiative I work as the Documentation Manager and Training Advisor of the Quanteda Initiative (QI), a UK non-profit organisation devoted to the promotion of open-source text analysis software, and co-author of the following R packages: quanteda: Quantitative analysis of textual data (co-author) readtext: Import of plain and formatted text files (co-author) newsmap: Semi-supervised model for geographical document classification (co-author) quanteda.dictionaries: Dictionaries for text analysis and associated functions (co-author) quanteda.classifiers: Models for supervised text classification (co-author) Teaching Materials for Text Analysis Below you can find tutorials, cheatsheets, and vignettes I have authored as a member of the Quanteda Initiative. Introduction to Quantitative Text Analysis Quanteda tutorials: a website with a step-by-step introduction to quantitative text analysis using quanteda designed for workshops on text analysis Cheat Sheet and Vignettes quanteda cheat sheet : a cheat sheet with the most important functions Textual data visualization: plot word frequencies, wordclouds and results of text scaling models readtext vignette: import a variety of text files into R quanteda’s features: comparison of quanteda to alternative R and Python packages for quantitative text analysis Replications Text Analysis with R for Students of Literature: replicate the analysis from Matthew Jockers’ book with quanteda functions Quantitative Social Science: An Introduction: replicate the part on text analysis from Kosuke Imai’s textbook Zurich Text as Data I am the co-founder of Zurich Text as Data, a group devoted to collaborations and cross-disciplinary exchanges between researchers working on quantitative text analysis. The inaugural workshop of Zurich Text as Data takes place on 24–25 October 2019 and is open to scholars in political science, economics, sociology, communication studies, legal studies, data science, and related fields. Papers or extended abstracts can be submitted here (deadline: 15 August 2019). Course Instructor at the University of Zurich 2019 (Autumn – upcoming): Party Competition, Election Pledges, and Policy Outcomes. Postgraduate Level 2019 (Spring): Quantitative Text Analysis. [Syllabus] 2019 (Autumn – upcoming): Quantitative Text Analysis. Teaching Assistant at Trinity College Dublin 2018: Public Opinion, Instructor: Lisa Keenan. 2017–2018: Research Methods for Political Science, Instructor: Thomas Chadefaux. 2017–2018: Public Opinion and Political Participation, Instructor: Gizem Arikan. 2015–2016, 2016–2017: Comparative Politics, Instructor: Gail McElroy. 2018: Quantitative Text Analysis, Instructor: Kenneth Benoit. Workshop Instructor 2019: Quantitative Text Analysis for Absolute Beginners, POLTEXT Pre-Conference Events, Tokyo (upcoming, 1 day) 2019: Introduction to Quantitative Text Analysis, Kobe University (upcoming, 1 day) 2019: Supervised Document Classification, Swiss National Science Foundation, Bern (upcoming, 2 days) 2019: Quantitative Text Analysis, University of Düsseldorf (upcoming, 2 days) 2019: An Introduction to Quantitative Text Analysis Using R and quanteda, University of Bergen (2 days). 2018: An Introduction to the Quanteda Package for Quantitative Text Analysis, Trinity College Dublin and University College Dublin (1 day). 2018: Introduction to Quantitative Text Analysis Using R, Methods Center of the Bremen International Graduate School of Social Sciences (2 days). 2018: Introduction to Quantitative Text Analysis Using Quanteda, WZB Berlin Social Science Center (with Kohei Watanabe, 1 day). 2017: Data Wrangling and Visualisation Using R, Trinity Research in Social Science (1 day). Awards and Qualifications 2018: Winner of the Dermot McAleese Award for Teaching Excellence, Trinity College Dublin. 2016: Certificate in Academic Teaching & Supporting Learning, Trinity College Dublin Extensive CV (PDF) 01.2019– Postdoctoral Researcher University of Zurich, Department of Political Science 09.2015–12.2018 PhD in Political Science Trinity College Dublin, Department of Political Science 09.2017–05.2018 Postgraduate Certificate in Statistics Trinity College Dublin, School of Computer Science and Statistics 09.2014–08.2015 Master of Science in Politics and Public Policy 10.2011–06.2014 Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Sociology University of Bonn, Department of Political Science and Sociology Visiting Positions 08.2019–09.2019 Visiting Research Fellow Kobe University, Graduate School of Law (upcoming) 06.2019–07.2019 Visiting Researcher 05.2018–06.2018 Guest Researcher EUROLAB at GESIS – Leibniz Institute for the Social Sciences, Cologne 2018– Documentation Manager and Training Advisor Quanteda Initiative CIC 2015–2018 Research Assistant and Teaching Assistant 2014 Intern in Research Division “EU External Relations” German Institute for International and Security Affairs (SWP) 2013–2014 Student assistant Bonn Academy for Research and Teaching of Applied Politics University of Bonn, Institute of Political Science and Sociology Selected Fellowships and Grants 2016–2019 Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship, Irish Research Council 2017 TRiSS Postgraduate Research Fellowship, Trinity Research in Social Science (TRiSS) 2015–2016 Postgraduate Ussher Fellowship, 2011–2015 Undergraduate and Graduate Fellowship, German Academic Scholarship Foundation (Studienstiftung des deutschen Volkes) R, Stata, Python Git, GitHub mueller@ipz.uzh.ch University of Zurich \| Affolternstrasse 56 \| 8050 Zurich \| Switzerland Email to book an appointment © 2019 Stefan Müller · Terms apply · Powered by the Academic theme for Hugo.	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4217
__label__cc	0.736242	0.263758	The World Before Me Posted: June 11, 2014 by moifightclub in cinema, Documentary, Indie, Movie Recco, movie reviews, reviews Tags: anurag kashyap, Nisha Pahuja, Shazia Iqbal, The World Before Her The World Before Her, directed by Nisha Pahuja is currently playing in select cinemas across India. Fatema Kagalwala first wrote about it on our blog, where we called it a ‘must-watch’. Here’s another post about the film by Shazia Iqbal: “The question isn’t who is going to let me; it’s who is going to stop me” These are words of Objectivist Ayn Rand who rejected religion and faith and believed in rational reasoning as the way to make sense of life. Her words tore up the frame as the sub text every time the two protagonists (along with other girls) spoke in Nisha Pahuja’s powerful documentary ‘The World Before Her’. The irony is the world they want to capture; a world where they know they can’t be stopped has already caged them with its regressive ideologies and unfortunately they aren’t even aware of it. I watched the film a few days ago and it has been pulling me back for several reasons. Not because the film is full of strange, depressing truths about a divided India, and a women’s identity in the same, more so because it asked the very questions I have been asking of myself for years now. Who else does an atheist woman go to? I love and respect Ayn Rand and women like her who publicly shunned religion because it’s a tad bit more difficult for women to deny God than their counterparts. I am a Muslim woman. My surname makes me a minority in a country that largely has fixed notions of the community I belong to. My gender makes me a minority in a patriarchal society. Also to make things a little more twisted for myself, I questioned and tried to reason with my religion and others, and bracketed myself in another group, the atheists. Minority again. Minority within minority is a task to pull off, I now realize. In a world where humans are so deeply fucked up, it sometime gets lonely to not even have a god but when you see the madness in the ones that have him, you know you are better off not belonging anywhere. When asked about my faith, my regular responses are ‘I’m not a Muslim.. I’m an Atheist’, ‘Agnostic?’ Or simpler: ‘My parents follow Islam.’ ‘So you are a Muslim?’ ‘No, I don’t belong’ ‘Don’t belong?’ ‘Don’t belong to any religion.. I’m fine without knowing the truth about God’s existence.’ Somehow my answers have never been good enough to not raise eyebrows. For years I have been looking for an identity. And I have made my peace with not having one and my questions being unanswered. I don’t look at myself as a Muslim and that’s why I have not felt discriminated against though being called a Pakistani is something most Indian Muslims grow up with and get used to. I am not victimizing Muslims, just that being a minority comes with its own share of pros and cons in every part of the world. We have our own. So every time my surname separated me from the crowd and I was treated differently, I didn’t retaliate because why should I? I am not a Muslim. So I thought. I think my parents are a rare case because they celebrated the birth of their first daughter, when everyone around was killing the female child. I was born in a small village near Patna. After two sons, they were craving for a daughter. I am not thankful to my parents for not killing me, I take it for granted as my right to live and yet the character I empathized with the most in the film is Prachi Trivedi, the 24 year old instructor at the training camp of Durga Vahini, the women’s wing of VHP (Vishwa Hindu Parishad) because she is grateful to her father for not killing her at birth. That line made me realize how deeply complexed we are as a society. My life is not about a movement, I don’t hate Gandhi and terrorizing people is not my idea of teaching. And yet it was Prachi’s volatile relationship with her father that touched my heart. Prachi is aware that the world that gives her strength to fight the enemies of the Hindu Culture (apparently the Muslims and Christians) is also the world that eventually asks her to follow the norms of marriage and children, something she doesn’t agree with. The ideologies that tell her women are not meant for house chores also tell her she ‘has’ to be tamed by getting married and not fly high and dream of a career. Girls don’t do that. Prachi struggles to balance the two contradicting ideologies, while asserting the right to find her way. Like Prachi, I have had my own daddy issues. My emancipated father raised me and my sister like ‘boys’. He told me very early in life about carving out a place for myself in the world. Marriage was not his idea of making a good life. It’s never been my idea of anything. We never spoke about marriage. But our relationship is volatile and argumentative because of our different belief systems of surviving in a society, where we are lesser in numbers compare to other race. It’s not about me being atheist. Although I have defied God in his presence, he is liberal enough to mostly let me think with my own head. The only one issue I have had with him is he asked his children to be quiet and not rebel because ‘we are minorities’. Under different circumstances, we fought over the same issue, and never reached common ground. During a Ganapati festival, my mother was just back from a long stint in hospital. The noise mongers were playing loud music at 5 in the morning, and after bearing with it for days in row, I finally decided to call the police. He stopped me. ‘We are Muslims, we can’t complain. You are a girl and people don’t show their bias to women but you’ll know some day’. I argued and was told ‘ladki ho, ladki hi raho’ (You are a girl, behave like one). I struggled to understand if this was the same man who took pride in raising his daughters like sons. And whether I should be a boy and speak up or be a girl and shut up. And what’s stopping me from speaking up is it being a Muslim or being a girl? Or both? I felt suffocated in the hypocrisy of the world my father created for me. I didn’t choose to be a Muslim or a girl. Why do others have the rights that I don’t? Lottery of being born a man? Lottery of being born in a religion that’s bigger in numbers? I didn’t want this world. I wanted to make my own new one that doesn’t chain people in their own thoughts. But largely this is the reason why most anonymous in history have been women. Somewhere halfway through the film, when you are already exposed to two very different, yet parallel, disturbing worlds, a young teen at the training camp gushes with pride ‘No, I don’t have any Muslim friends and I am proud about it’. After bearing with a few prejudices, this one felt like a sharp knife cut through the heart. I felt stifled. A few drop of tears streamed out. Why did it affect me so much when I don’t consider myself part of the community? When I proudly defy standing by any faith. When I don’t feel the need to group with a bunch of people who have similar ideologies and believe we are superior to the other race. Her words made me realize that even though I have left the religion years ago, it hasn’t left me. And in all probability, it never will. Her words reminded me of how I felt years ago, when Bombay’s lifeline, the trains were attacked on 7/11. I worked as an Asst Art director back then and was shooting in a studio at Filmcity for a feature film. We were working with a couple of stars and anticipated an early pack up that evening. But as soon as the blast news came out of the vanity, the set became a story in itself. Chaos reigned. People panicked and called home. I managed to call home and found everyone safe, except my brother, who none of us could trace. Production decided to lock up the set till the bombings stopped. It went on for 11 minutes but we kept getting news. Mostly post blast rumours. My mother realized that the sixth train that blew up was my brother’s regular ride back home. That was it. I fell on a chair and broke down. A couple of Asst directors gathered around me. Out of nowhere the production manager, a paan chewing middle aged man, shrugged them aside and attacked me in his stringent language ‘kyun ro rahi hai? Tum logon ne toh karaya hai yeh sab’ (why are you crying when you and your people have executed this). I looked at him. The asst director retaliated ‘What the hell! She is a girl…’ He attacked further, ‘the girls carry the bomb inside the veil.. ’ He said that and spat his chewed betel leaf next to me. My friend blabbered something that I didn’t hear. I was numb. I don’t know the chemical composition of a bomb, not even as much as Prachi’s knowledge of an AK-47. But we are both victims here. I have never worn a veil and have fought against people who support and justify women being bound in a veil. I realized that I belong neither to a community that wears the veil nor to the one that’s judges it and labels them a terrorist because of it. I feel that spit on my face every time I recollect this incident. I remembered my father’s words and reasoned his fear of speaking out as a minority. Ruhi is a Miss India contestant who dreams of winning the crown to make her parents of their product, that’s her. Jo-Ann Endicott in Pina Bausch’s Walzer struts around angrily, frustrated and enraged at a world that tells her how to carry off her body. She chalks out a boundary in different spacial forms her body creates and repeatedly screams ‘I don’t need your help or anybody else’s help, Thank you!! ’ She describes how she is asked to sit with an erect posture, so her legs don’t look fat and ugly. She struggles to keep her thighs together because they fall apart or hold her boobs up with a bra or they hang, sometimes right till the floor. There is rule for every part of the body, the fingers, wrist, elbow, the long neck, the longer hair, the various ways of doing up the hair, which lets the world categorize as classy or trashy. She wants to let her hair down and be herself. She wants to hide herself behind her long hair but they wont let her. Her face, her torso, her spine, her legs, her gait is all exposed for her to be judged. This is the gist of what beauty pageants stand for. Girls in this country have grown up dreaming of the crown from the time Sushmita Sens and Aishwarya Rais won the Miss world crown and made India ‘Proud’. The beauty standards pretty much changed in this country since then and how. I would love to say fuck your fascist beauty standards if I myself wasn’t falling prey to it every now and then. It was only a couple of months ago when I went to a skin clinic for a regular acne issue; they asked me to undergo a surgery for a sharper Jawline. A half an hour procedure that would apparently change my life. I was dumbfounded. The doctor told me it would give me confidence to face the world with a new face. Ha! Fortunately I didn’t think anything wrong with the current one. I smiled and walked away. But a lot of women fall prey. The rising numbers of these clinics are a proof of that. Everything is wrong with a world that tells a women a certain body type, certain shapes, particular complexion are what makes an ideal women, empowers them. Botox, skin whiteners, weight control, boob jobs are not going to let me have my place in the world. A director once belittled me when I refused to do a fairness cream TVC. He said if not me, somebody else would take it up. Exactly! I am aware. Wearing a bikini doesn’t empower women. Neither does holding a gun and being able to pull the trigger. You are not empowered by exposing your bra strap or by being married and raising kids at 18; not by having ideal torso and limbs, not even by internalising the politics of hatred in a religious camp. If this is power, I don’t want it. I want the opportunity to voice my opinion and be heard respectfully. I do not ask for permission before I speak. It is my right as a human. I do not want a career to escape the world you have made; I want to create my own world. Don’t allot me my space. Give me the freedom to carve my own niche. That would be empowerment. Hope Prachi and Ruhi and thousands like them comprehend this and liberate themselves from the world that is thrown before them. Thank you- Nisha Pahuja for this hard-hitting story and Anurag Kashyap for supporting it. (Shazia Iqbal is an Art director, and has worked in Films and Advertising since last eight years. She designed Dum Maaro Dum and many other films. Her script was selected for NFDC’s Director’s Lab.) I enjoyed reading your article Shazia. As an atheist Indian woman, I certainly identify with the feeling of being a “minority within a minority”. I come from a Christian background and found it incredibly isolating as I couldn’t find a single like minded person either among my elders or peers (and definitely no women). If there were any, they kept their views to themselves. Have you been able to find other atheists within your social circles? Indian women of recent generations are certainly raised with mixed messages. I and many others were raised with a reasonably cosmopolitan outlook and allowed to pursue higher education. However, there is always the underlying assumption that certain “norms” have to be fulfilled; expectations that have to be met. You still have to tow the party line. I live in the UK now and have come across a number of atheists who used to be Muslim, and it is disappointing to hear that their names and/or physical appearance still lead to very stereotypical assumptions by the majority. I felt the echo of their hurt in your words at being pigeon-holed simply because of your background. When I watched “The World Before Her” I realised how both stories were two sides of the same coin. Each side thinks they are empowered, breaking new ground, standing up for themselves – but they are still trapped within the patriarchal prison that defines the terms and conditions of their gender. I guess it is the same story that is played out in many levels around the world. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and experiences! Out and Proud Documentary for Social Awareness : Carelinkwebpr says: […] The World Before Me […] Siva D says: Wonderful article; thanks for sharing . It is wrenching to read what we put our own through. VOTD : Rahi Anil Barve’s Manjha Indie Bhindi	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4223
__label__wiki	0.903902	0.903902	Five albums in, Chromeo prove they can still bring the funk. But unlike their clubbier past releases, which refashioned retro grooves for sweaty Brooklyn dance floors, Head Over Heels is broader and more human—and packed with guests. (DRAM, for instance, provides the raspy croon in album opener “Must've Been,” and The-Dream lifts “Bedroom Calling, Pt. 2” into a glitzy '80s jam). Recorded over two years in the pair’s first proper studio, a wood-paneled wonderland in Burbank, California, it features some of 2018’s biggest new artists (Stefflon Don, Amber Mark) alongside industry greats (Raphael Saadiq, The Time guitarist Jesse Johnson, and legendary bassist Pino Palladino). Or, as lead singer Dave 1 told Beats 1 host Zane Lowe, “Old-school players and new-school cats—that’s our mix.” Head Over Heels Chromeo Must've Been (feat. DRAM) Don't Sleep (feat. French Montana & Stefflon Don) Count Me Out Bad Decision Right Back Home To You (Interlude) Just Friends (feat. Amber Mark) Slumming It Bedroom Calling, Pt. 1 Bedroom Calling pt. 2 (feat. The-Dream) ℗ 2018 Atlantic Recording Corporation for the United States and WEA International Inc. for the world excluding Canada. More By Chromeo Fancy Footwork Fancy Footwork (Deluxe Edition) DJ-Kicks Remix Bonafied Lovin' - EP iTunes Live from Montreal	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4226
__label__wiki	0.543905	0.543905	You are here: Home » Featured » Mitch Ballard Named Sr. Director, Creative For BMI Austin Office Mitch Ballard Named Sr. Director, Creative For BMI Austin Office Jessica Nicholson • March 4, 2019 Mitch Ballard Mitch Ballard has been named Senior Director, Creative at BMI’s Austin office, effective immediately. In this role, he will be responsible for providing service to existing BMI affiliates in Texas, signing new talent, and providing enhancement for the already vibrant songwriting community in Austin. Ballard reports to Jody Williams, VP, Creative, Nashville and Mason Hunter, AVP, Creative, Nashville. “With a strong background in music and tech, native Texan Mitch Ballard is the perfect fit to head our new Austin office,” said Williams. “He is a proven leader who really understands the creative culture of Austin and the songwriter’s contribution to the fabric of Texas music. We look forward to Mitch’s contribution to BMI’s success as we embark on this new adventure.” The news of Ballard’s hiring comes on the heels of BMI and Governor Greg Abbott announcing that BMI would be expanding its presence in Texas by opening its first Creative Office in Austin. The new office will allow BMI to work directly with talented songwriters and emerging artists in the Austin music community. Ballard’s career spans over 25 years, beginning as an on-air talent in radio and television. He spent 16 years in the music business as a tour manager for major national acts. Prior to joining BMI, he utilized his background in the music industry to create early web-based applications for music booking agencies as well as a system to manage concert tours for major artists. Most recently, he started a full-service web development firm, DevDigital, in Nashville. Ballard received a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism from the University of North Texas. Category: Featured, Organizations Industry Ink: NMPA S.O.N.G.S. Foundation, Inside Music Publishing, WMA » « Industry Pics: Ryan Hurd, Blake Shelton, Leah Nobel © 2019. All rights reserved. 615-349-2171. Premium WordPress Themes	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4227
__label__cc	0.622644	0.377356	OPINION: As polls loom, fear and loathing in Malaysia Karim Raslan -- Ceritalah ASEAN Posted at Mar 05 2018 09:59 PM The distorted light show featuring a mangled “Jalur Gemilang”, the Malaysian flag at the UMNO Headquarters. Ceritalah ASEAN Quinoa is approximately 23 times more expensive than rice. Wikimedia Commons Prime Minister Najib Razak faces a grave challenge in this coming election. Wikimedia Commons Chinese New Year has come and gone. Malaysia's 14th General Elections (“GE14”) could take place as early as late March. In most normal countries, you'd look to the newspapers and TV to get a sense of public sentiment. That won't help you much in Malaysia. With the Government clamping down on all forms of expression – including in the name of fighting “fake news”– trying to get sense of how Malaysians feel isn't easy. Even the online media has grown reticent in the face of increasing legal pressure. In the absence of polls and a neutral media, political observers must often look for clues or signs in the strangest of places. Take the hideously-distorted electronic representation of the Malaysian flag currently adorning the 40 storey-tall UMNO building in Kuala Lumpur. Despite an obvious technical glitch that's resulted in the “Jalur Gemilang” looking more like a toddler's colouring book, the party leadership apparently can't be bothered to either rectify or reset the LED display. This suggests to me that UMNO leaders are convinced that the Malaysian public are totally apathetic and that the Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition it leads is predestined to win. When the ruling party’s headquarters is beaming out such a message, it is no surprise that the same tone of sloppiness and “going-through-the-motions” seems to permeate the nation. Of course, the Prime Minister has been busy promoting his administration as best he can. Interestingly, at a time when domestic food prices have experienced a staggering series of increases – witness retail tycoon, Dr Ameer Mydin's recent interview on BFM Radio where he claimed that everyday staples that have increased (Indian mackerel has gone up by 19.5%, Cameron cabbage by 29% and Maggi chili sauce by 38.8%) – the PM chose to give a social media broadcast on the national budget where he advised young Malaysians on how to spend their money. In the same session where he had to ask the moderator how much a meal at a cheap 24-hour restaurant would cost, Najib boasted that he eats quinoa instead of rice. A 250g bag of quinoa costs about MYR15—roughly 23 times more expensive than the equivalent in rice. Whilst the PM is attempting to connect with millennials, the quinoa reference has backfired in the face of mounting concerns about the high cost of living. On another front, the sugar-to-hotels Chinese-Malaysian tycoon Robert Kuok has been hit by all manner of ridiculous insults – including claims that he is funding the opposition—culminating in a bizarre challenge that the near-mythic 94-year-old should contest in Malaysian elections. Separately, a yacht allegedly linked to 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) scandal was recently seized by Indonesian authorities. The bust made headlines everywhere: except Malaysia’s mainstream press. We truly live in an age of absurdity. On one hand, we have a nonagenarian former prime minister, Dr Mahathir Mohamad, who was responsible for jailing scores of dissidents in the 1980s but who now leads the opposition Pakatan Harapan (PH). On the other, you have a Prime Minister who is a product of the system that Mahathir built for more than two decades. It’s no wonder then that the political atmosphere is permeated by disillusionment with all sides. A small sector of allegedly disappointed youths have resorted to the so-called #UndiRosak movement, rejecting what they view to be “a choice between lesser evils” and campaigning for voters to cast spoiled votes instead. They feel let down by a system that has produced what I’ve called an optimism deficit. Too many unfulfilled promises have dampened Malaysians’ hopes. It doesn’t help that there is no disruptive political figure on either side of the divide. No Emmanuel Macron. Not even a Rodrigo Duterte. It seems like the choice facing Malaysians for the GE14 is between incrementalism or a throwback to the authoritarian milieu of the past. It's a narrative that's likely to turn-off voters and suppress numbers at a polling booth – something which all analysts feel would benefit the incumbents. Despite the BN going big on promises of economic continuity, things on the ground aren’t as rosy as they make it sound. While Malaysians are regularly bombarded with news on top-line macro figures and infrastructure projects in the pipeline—little real wealth seems to have trickled to the ground. This was illuminated by a recent Merdeka Centre poll where respondents indicated that they neither feel that economic conditions have improved or that the country is headed in the right direction. Worse still, Najib’s promises of political reform have stalled. Crackdowns on political dissent remain rife – consider the plight of the opposition politician, Rafizi Ramli, currently facing a jail sentence for being a whistle-blower. Moreover, Malaysians realize that the BN will not be instituting political reforms after the next elections. Indeed, the Prime Minister's embrace of the hard-line Islamist PAS party (which has refused to join PH) will mean more socially conservative regulations in the years ahead as the Ulama (religious scholars) gain in strength. There’s a real, looming threat of economic stagnation and socio-political polarization becoming Malaysia’s default settings. In the past, social mobility and prosperity took the sting out of alleged malpractices by the elite. Yet today, with an electorate left behind economically and fed up with the same old political faces, there is no sign that the nation will become any less divided. To put things simply: it’s a case of now or never. An overnight transition with lofty promises for reform; or the status quo. Meanwhile, the opposition PH’s machinery is in full swing, with Mahathir hitting the campaign trail hard despite recent health concerns. Conventional wisdom suggests that a divided opposition inevitably leads to a BN landslide. Nevertheless, as this Tukang Cerita has learnt in this age of Brexit and Trump, anything is possible. Do Malaysians choose aspiration – however naïve – for the better? Or go with business as usual? In the past, Malaysians have tended to stick with the tried and tested. In this case—when we know both the players—the “magic” of elections means that we might be heading into a great, big unknown. Disclaimer: The views in this blog are those of the blogger and do not necessarily reflect the views of ABS-CBN Corp. featured blog, blog roll, karim raslan, malaysia, general elections, Najib razak, mahathir mohamad, Rodrigo Duterte Read More: featured blog blog roll karim raslan malaysia general elections Najib razak mahathir mohamad Rodrigo Duterte	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4239
__label__wiki	0.683668	0.683668	BajajBikes Bajaj Avenger Street 160 (Avenger 180 Replacement) Officially Launched Maxabout Team May 10, 2019 1,239 0 Bajaj has finally launched the Avenger Street 160 at INR 82,253 (ex-showroom Delhi). The bike features single-channel ABS and has replaced the Avenger 180 which was approximately INR 6000 costly than the newly launched Street 160. The cruiser motorcycle is available in two colours: Spicy Red and Ebony Black. Avenger Street 160 in Ebony Black Bajaj Avenger Street 160 is powered by a 160.4cc single cylinder, air-cooled motor and it is able to produce an output which is comparable to the power and torque figures of Avenger 180. It is because it uses the same engine that is available on the Pulsar NS160. The engine produces 15 HP of power at 8500 rpm and a peak torque of 13.5 Nm at 7000 rpm. Apart from the new engine, everything on the bike remains the same as the 180cc Avenger. It uses the same chassis setup with the same dimensions. Even the ground clearance of the Avenger Street 160 remains the same at 177mm. The kerb weight of the bike stands at 150kg, which is also exactly the same as the now-discontinued 180cc Avenger model. The bike also misses the all-digital instrumentation as we have seen on the Avenger 220. The Avenger Street 160 uses an analogue-digital instrument console to keep the costs in check. Avenger Street 160 in Spicy Red One of the main reasons that the company has chosen to replace Street 180 with Street 160 is because the 180cc and 220cc motorcycles were too close to each other in terms of price. So, with the launch of the new 160cc Avenger, the brand would be able to target the customers in a better way. This will also help Bajaj Auto to differentiate the two models significantly. Around this price tag, the new Avenger Street 160 has only one direct rival that is the Suzuki Intruder which starts at INR 1.01 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). You May Like: MV Agusta F3 800 RC Launched in India @ INR 21.99 Lakh Instrument Console of Avenger Street 160 Narayan Sundararaman, Vice President (Marketing) – Motorcycles, Bajaj Auto Ltd said: “As the segment leader, Bajaj Auto believes in the strategy of differentiation and category expansion. Avenger Street 160 with ABS provides contemporary styling whilst retaining its classical roadster design. The discerning customer gets a definite step-up into the world of classic biking. This will open up choices to the entry-level sport’s customers.” 3.75 (75%) 4 Reviews 160ccBajaj AvengerBajaj Avenger StreetBajaj Avenger Street 160Launched in India	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4240
__label__wiki	0.705224	0.705224	SBU News > Newsroom > Press Release > General > Evolutionary Feeding Advantages of “Warm Fish” Now Affected by Human Impacts GeneralNewsroomPress ReleaseResearch Evolutionary Feeding Advantages of “Warm Fish” Now Affected by Human Impacts Stony Brook marine biologist’s analysis of tuna species, published in PNAS, reveals data that show specialized feeding patterns and potential impact of overexploiting small fish Dr. Madigan (center) and physiologist Nishad Jayasundara (top, study co-author), take biological samples from a pelagic fish on the research vessel Shogun. Credit: Luis Rodriguez Stony Brook, NY – June 23, 2015 – Scientists have commonly thought that fish which evolved to become endothermic, or warm-blooded, may allow them to be more active in colder waters and thus exploit more food sources. But a new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) by Daniel Madigan, PhD, a Stony Brook University marine biologist, and colleagues nationally, reveals that this is not the case and that combined effects of overfishing and environmental changes can impact the performance of these fish. The ability to “warm” has evolved in some fish and sharks, including certain species of tuna, and many of these species have been extremely successful for millennia in ocean waters worldwide. In the paper “Assessing niche width of endothermic fish from genes to ecosystem,” the common theory that body warmth allows tunas to be more active predators, and thus better able to exploit many high quality food sources by swimming into cooler waters was tested by Dr. Madigan and colleagues. They assessed three species of tuna with varying levels of endothermy (yellowfin, albacore, and Pacific bluefin tunas). “What we discovered is that what worked well for millions of years – pelagic fish ‘warming’ their bodies enabling them to reap energetic benefits by expanding their foraging into much cooler waters – may not work as well now that humans have significantly altered the marine environment,” said lead author Dr. Madigan, an NSF Post-Doctoral Fellow in the School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences (SoMAS) at Stony Brook University. Dr. Madigan takes tuna tissue samples in waters off of Southern California. Credit: Daniel Fuller Dr. Madigan said a strong example of this pattern in the fish studied is the Pacific bluefin tuna, which has a greater cold tolerance than other tuna species and inhabits a broader range and depth than other tunas. In fact, bluefins have the highest cold tolerance of all tuna species. Because of this, one would expect the Pacific buefin tuna would forage most successfully, but the team found the opposite. “We found evidence that the Pacific bluefin tuna specialized on sardines and does not extensively exploit fish found in colder waters, and yellowfin tuna consumed more calories by being less selective,” said Dr. Madigan. “This makes us question what happens to Pacific bluefin when populations of sardines decrease due to both regional overfishing and natural fluctuations in sardine populations. The bluefin’s adaptation as a ‘warm fish,’ which can be a strength, then becomes a weakness and may significantly affect things like growth and overall fitness.” He pointed out that previous studies have documented human overfishing of “forage fish,” which includes sardines, anchovy and herring. Many of these forage fish are used to feed aquacultured fishes for human consumption and are also eaten by oceanic predators such as tunas, sharks, seabirds, and marine mammals. The research team used several scientific methods to classify the endothermic capacity of the tuna species, characterize their diving behavior, and determine the food resources they ingested. They used cardiac gene expression data from the heart tissue of each species. This provided a measurable index revealing how well their hearts could perform in cold water, essentially defining their ability to access deep water. They placed electronic tags on fish that can record data for a year or more, which tracked the distance and depth of their swimming. This revealed that bluefin spend more time in deep and colder waters. They also performed diet analyses from hundreds of samples of the three tuna species caught from 2008 to 2010 in waters off Southern California and Northern Mexico. This revealed the specialization of diet for bluefin and the more varied diet of the other species. Dr. Madigan said their analysis suggests that some marine predators and endothermic fish, such as the bluefin, may rely on more specific diet items than scientists were previously aware. He added that the next step in the research is to understand in a more concrete way just how such predators are impacted by both scarcity and abundance of their prey (the forage fish). Co-authors of the study include: Aaron B. Carlisle, Barbara A. Block, and Luke Gardner, of the Tuna Research and Conservation Center of Hopkins Marine Station at Stanford University; Nishad Jayasundara of the Tuna Research and Conservation Center (now at School of the Environment, Duke University); Florenza Micheli, of the Hopkins Marine Station at Stanford University; and Kurt M. Schaefer and Daniel W. Fuller, of the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission, La Jolla, Calif. The research was supported in part by the Office of Naval Research, and from the Gordon and Betty Moore, David and Lucille Packard, and Alfred P. Sloan Foundations. Greg Filiano Follow us on Twitter @sbunewsdesk Gregory.filiano@stonybrookmedicine.edu Find Out How Late Night Tweeting Impacts Athletic Performance Mammals Moving Less in Human Landscapes May Upset Ecosystems Featured Press StoryNewsroomPress ReleaseResearch Researchers Prepare to Explore Extreme Lunar Environments STONY BROOK, NY, September 19, 2018 — As the United States prepares to visit the surface of the Moon once again, scientists from the RIS4E node of NASA’s Solar System Exploration Research Virtual Institute... Featured Press StoryGeneralMedicineNewsroomPress Release Stony Brook Medicine Launches Long Island’s First Mobile Stroke Units STONY BROOK, NY, April 8, 2019 – The Stony Brook Cerebrovascular and Comprehensive Stroke Center (CVCSC) and the Stony Brook Renaissance School of Medicine Department of Emergency Services offered a sneak preview of... Featured Press StoryGeneralNewsroomPress Release Stony Brook Jumps 12 Spots in Wall Street Journal/Times Higher US Education Ranking 2019 STONY BROOK, NY, September 6, 2018 — The Wall Street Journal and Times Higher Education College Rankings 2019 rated Stony Brook University #135 nationally moving up from #147 last year and #30 among public institutions... Study Affirms Stony Brook University’s Vast Economic Impact Ancient Saharan Seaway Illustrates How Earth’s Climate and Creatures Can Undergo Extreme Change Eastern Long Island Hospital Joins the Stony Brook Medicine Healthcare System Stony Brook Ecologist Wins Award Heralding the Nation’s Most Promising Young Scientists Engineered Cell Evolution May Provide Pathway to Halting Cancer Drug Resistance Study Shows Opioid Poisoning Rates Higher and in a More Diverse Population Can Facebook Help Predict and Monitor Disease? Study Says “Yes” Saving the Sharks by way of Biological Research DNA Study Illustrates the Complex Story of Ancient Herders and Farmers in East Africa and How Food Production Entered Sub-Saharan Africa	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4242
__label__wiki	0.769369	0.769369	NEWS HOME » ENTERTAINMENT Melodic hit gets a new-age tweak Mumbai \| Saturday, 2019 1:15:05 AM IST Singers Shaan and Shreya Ghoshal's 2005 song "Naam ada likhna" from the 2005 film, "Yahaan", has been given a refreshing touch by new-age singers Madhubanti Bagchi and Shreyas Puranik. The original song was composed by Shantanu Moitra for the Shoojit Sircar film, starring Jimmy Sheirgill and Minissha Lamba while the music for the new rendition has been re-produced by Harshit Chauhan. The music video features couple Divya Agarwal and Varun Sood, who shot in the picturesque locations of Ladakh. "This is our first music video together. There's no other way to say it, the song is beautiful, the lyrics are perfect and my co-star is amazing! Everything just fit perfectly. We couldn't have asked for anything better," said Varun. Divya added: "The music was so good that it was an instant yes after we heard the track. Shooting in Ladakh was so much fun with Varun around." --IANS nn/vnc/bc ( 158 Words) 2019-07-12-19:14:06 (IANS) LATEST COMMENTS () I have no political aspirations: Mammoot... Live my roles between 'action' and 'cut'... I love Deepika's experimental nature: Ta... Kalki starts shooting for web show 'Bhra... I feel I was destined to be an actress: ... Why Shah Rukh saw 'The Lion King' 40 tim...	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4243
__label__wiki	0.751204	0.751204	TR Newswire PR Archives: Latest, By Company By Date Press Release -- April 18th, 2013 Source: NTT Communications NTT Communications to Launch New Data Center in Malaysia TOKYO, JAPAN and CYBERJAYA, MALAYSIA - NTT Communications Corporation (NTT Com) announced today that it will start construction on the new Cyberjaya 4 Data Center this month, targeting the provision of commercial operations from May 2014. Malaysia Cyberjaya 4 Data Center (CBJ4) will be the fourth data center in Malaysia to meet the expanding needs of the Southeast Asian market. Its advanced design will enable NTT Com to provide new business solutions for disaster recovery, managed services and professional training, which will be implemented through platform-as-a- service (PaaS) and infrastructure-as-a-service (IaaS) business models. CBJ4 will feature redundant systems for commercial and uninterruptible power supply, cooling, power generator and power distribution, plus robust systems for fire and flood prevention. The facility's 24 x 7 office environment will enable a wide range of business process outsourcing. Customers will enjoy high-speed, large-capacity internet access through NTT Com's global IP backbone and Arcstar Universal One global IP-VPN. The Asia Submarine-cable Express connecting Malaysia, Japan, Philippines, Hong Kong and Singapore will provide CBJ4 customers with extra-low-latency, extra-reliable network, data center and cloud services on an end-to-end, one-stop basis. "Malaysia is well positioned to be a world-class preferred hub for data centers," said Fumitoshi Imaizumi, President and CEO of NTT MSC, a wholly owned Malaysian subsidiary of NTT Com. "Liberal investment policies by the government, solid infrastructure and a large supply of people with IT expertise and multilingual talents offer clear advantages for foreign investors, particularly in terms of disaster recovery and offshore relocation. Our new Tier III-ready facility will enable us to deliver outstanding service quality to cater to accelerating local and global demands" CBJ4 will offer high-quality, low-cost services in line with leading global standards such as the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA), The Uptime Institute, Inc. (TUI) and the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, Inc. (ASHRAE). It also will be compliant with the international certification, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), and Malaysia's eco rating, Green Building Index (GBI), both indicators of NTT Com's commitment to building an environmentally friendly data center. Extensive use of green technologies and innovative processes will help to mitigate the environmental impact of ICT equipment and facilities. About NTT Communications Corporation NTT Communications provides consultancy, architecture, security and cloud services to optimize the information and communications technology (ICT) environments of enterprises. These offerings are backed by the company’s worldwide infrastructure, including leading global tier-1 IP network, Arcstar Universal One™ VPN network reaching over 150 countries, and over 140 secure data centers. NTT Communications’ solutions leverage the global resources of NTT Group companies including Dimension Data, NTT DOCOMO and NTT DATA. www.ntt.com \| Twitter@NTT Communications \| Facebook@NTT Communications \| LinkedIn@NTT About NTT MSC Sdn Bhd Incorporated on 2 July 1997, NTT MSC is a wholly owned subsidiary of NTT Communications, the international and long distance arm of NTT (Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corporation), with a paid up capital of RM 140 million. NTT MSC was awarded Multimedia Super Corridor (MSC) Pioneer Status from the Government of Malaysia in 1997 after having fulfilled the objectives of MSC Malaysia and spearheaded the development of Flagship Applications in MSC Malaysia. NTT MSC provides a full suite of internet and managed network services to comprehensively satisfy the multifaceted requirements of the wide variety of current business and market needs. The business activities range from global network and IP services to a full range of internet and data center services. For further information on NTT MSC services, please refer to www.my.ntt.com (Mr.)Yamaguchi, (Mr.)Seo, (Mr.)Amikawa NTT Communications +81-3-6733-9511 y PR Archives: Latest, By Company, By Date Latest: Global Payments Industry Leader Expands Partnership with INAP for Cloud Security Previous: NTT Communications Awarded as Best Asian Telecom Carrier and for Best Cloud-Based Service at Telecom Asia Awards 2013 Next: Businesses Can Collaborate and Communicate More Easily With Microsoft Office 365 Offered by Sprint Ramblings Jobs Board NTT Com to Launch New Data Center in Malaysia NTT Communications Launches New Data Centers in Singapore and Malaysia ChinaCache Establishes Strategic Partnership with Telecom Malaysia Berhad to Deliver China-Originated Content to Malaysia NTT Com to Launch Data Center in Tokyo Area as Key Platform for Cloud Services NTT Communications Completes Construction of Its New Data Center in Singapore © 2008–2010 TR Newswire — Sitemap — Media Partners — Privacy Policy	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4244
__label__wiki	0.807107	0.807107	Reviews Wii U October 5, 2015 January 12, 2016 Craig Majaski 1 Comment # of Players: 1, Developer: Nintendo, Platformer Series, Publisher: Nintendo, Rated E for Everyone In celebration of the 30th anniversary of Super Mario Bros., a game that helped revitalize a dead video game market and helped make Nintendo a household name, Super Mario Maker has been unleashed on the Wii U. Will it have the same mainstream success as the original game and can it help turn Nintendo’s fortune around in the home console business? It’s probably too late for that to happen, but anyone with a Wii U should definitely pick this game up as it’s one of the best games of the year, no matter the system. Super Mario Maker allows everyday gamers to become game designers. Players are able to create an almost endless variety of levels with the amazingly intuitive toolset that Nintendo has provided. Nintendo may not be the first to market with a create-your-own adventure concept – Little Big Planet on the PlayStation family of systems says hello – and there have been countless ROM hacks allowing for precisely these types of user-generated levels throughout the years. But, and this is important, Super Mario Maker is the first creation-type game that I feel truly gets it right. Most of this is due to the innovative way stages can be created. Making use of the Wii U’s touch screen on the GamePad, it’s never been easier to drag and drop level elements with a flick of the stylus. The toolbar is filled with instantly recognizable power-ups, enemies, platforms, and pitfalls. The tools are deceptively simple. Almost anyone, no matter his or her age or level of experience, can have a fun time experimenting with all of the design elements. Upon first booting up the game, Nintendo throws you into the deep end of the pool as the first thing one does is create a level. A few basics are already placed on the screen, but scroll a bit to the right and there’s an empty abyss just waiting to be filled up with whatever twisted ideas are rattling around in your head. Only a small sampling of the toolset is available from the get-go, no doubt to avoid overwhelming the user with too many options. This allows for some extensive experimentation with the smattering that’s available. Simple enemies, like Goombas and Koopa Troopas can be placed anywhere, even hidden inside blocks. Coins and super mushrooms are available to aid in the players’ quests. Speaking of super mushrooms, grab one and feed it to an enemy to create a super-sized monstrosity that’s sure to create a challenge. Add wings to just about anything. Who says mushrooms can’t fly? Upon creating a level to one’s satisfaction, it must be played from start to finish and be passable in order for it to be uploaded to Nintendo’s servers. Once that’s accomplished, it will be available for everyone else to play via the Internet. Anyone that’s played that level can then leave comments for the creator and even star a level if it’s something that was truly memorable. The levels that receive a lot of stars will rise to the top of the leaderboards, making them more accessible to a larger audience. You can also follow designers to make it easier to find levels that you really enjoy. Every course you create will have a unique ID that can be given out to anyone you choose. Unfortunately, your existing friends list on the Wii U doesn’t automatically sync up with Super Mario Maker. You’ll most likely need to swap at least one level first, and then simply follow your friend so you can have access to all of the levels created by that person. With over a million copies sold in under a month and over two million stages uploaded as of this writing, it can be daunting to find levels. Indeed, there’s always an inherent problem with the way levels rise to the top and stay there. Once they become popular, more people see them and play them, and then often will assign stars and thus the same levels and users may end up staying at the top for a very long time. Perhaps implementing a maximum length of time a single level can stay in the top ten would help. There’s also a tab for up and coming courses, which often has a variety of new content, but this can be very hit and miss. My favorite way of finding new courses is by playing the 100 Mario Challenge mode. A random group of levels is chosen and must be completed with the allotted number of lives. Easy mode serves up eight courses that are usually pretty simple to pass. Normal and expert double the course count to sixteen, each with more challenging levels. Since these are chosen at random some will be easier than others. However, I’ve managed to find some really difficult and satisfying levels this way. One nice thing is that if you come across a level that you absolutely hate, you can simply swipe on the touch screen to send it flying out of the rotation and a new course immediately loads in. Feel free to star the ones you really enjoyed to go back and play again at a later date. This is also a great way to find creators that you like. I often follow them and check out what new levels they’ve come up with. The more levels you create, the more the toolset fills in. When all is said and done you’ll have access to over 60 doodads, many of which have their own secondary functions. In addition, new stage types and graphical styles allow for serious nostalgia trips. Most of the commercials and official videos show off the original Super Mario Bros. graphics, but this can be switched on the fly in the creation mode. New Super Mario Bros, Super Mario World, and Super Mario Bros. 3 are additional canvases that can be utilized for your level designs. Each has its own power-ups, such as the leaf to turn into Raccoon Mario in Mario 3. Enemies appear across all versions, even if they never existed in the originals. It’s fun to see what each one looks like across the different graphic styles. Speaking of graphics, this game looks great, especially if you like that classic pixelated look from the NES and SNES eras, but the lack of secondary stage options like a desert level or ice world is disappointing. The sound effects and music tracks in this game are astounding. Sure, you’ll find all of the classic music selections from yesteryear, but when creating levels the music takes on its own variation of the well-known tunes. Placing objects has an auto-tune voice that sort of fills in the melody for the soundtrack. It’s really entertaining and never gets old, plus it changes depending on the level type and version. Another audio perk is the virtual surround sound that comes out of the GamePad’s speakers. If you’re playing the game on a TV, some of the sound effects will come out of the GamePad’s speakers as well, creating a very unique soundstage that sounds great and adds an immersive layer not found in many games. Not all is peachy in Super Mario Maker. There are a few minor quibbles that could have made this game perfect. First up, there’s no multiplayer mode. This seems like a huge oversight considering all of the Super Mario games presented here have had some sort of multiplayer included, even if some were alternating play. The closest thing to this is if someone is creating a level, a second person can immediately try the new revamped level to test it out. This is hardly ideal and something Nintendo should address with DLC or a sequel. I’ve already mentioned the somewhat lackluster way that levels are curated in the game as well as the omission of iconic desert and ice worlds. Really the only other mild annoyance is that some of the levels, especially those found in Super Mario Bros. 3 and World, are hard to replicate due to the inability to create sloped landscapes. It’s not a deal breaker, but it seems strange that Nintendo couldn’t have come up with an easy solution to include this option. If you’re still on the fence regarding purchasing a Wii U, I feel that you definitely have more to consider now that Super Mario Maker has arrived. It’s the best level creating game I’ve ever played, and you can easily lose hours upon hours dreaming up and making courses. The other night I spent three hours having a blast playing 100 Mario Challenge. Completing these courses will unlock special amiibo characters that can be used in level creation, or you can simply tap your amiibos as well. Tons of special effects, including user-generated sound effects, add icing to an already delicious cake. There’s plenty of content here to satisfy the staunchest of critics. Whether you aspire to be the next Miyamoto or just want to troll Mario players, you’ll find plenty to enjoy in Super Mario Maker. Graphics - 7.0/10 Sound - 9.0/10 Gameplay - 9.0/10 Lasting Appeal - 9.5/10 Final Thoughts: GREAT Super Mario Maker is an amazing toolkit that transforms gamers’ dream levels into reality. The expertly designed elements allow for anyone to pick up a stylus and have fun making unique and entertaining (we hope) levels for the world to enjoy. Craig Majaski Craig has been covering the video game industry since 1995. His work has been published across a wide spectrum of media sites. He’s currently the Editor-In-Chief of Nintendo Times and contributes to Gaming Age. Knights Of Pen & Paper 2: Deluxiest Edition Review December 31, 2018 Alex Knight 0 Fast RMX Review March 14, 2017 Ben Imdieke 0 NBA Playgrounds Preview April 5, 2017 Craig Majaski 0 One thought on “Super Mario Maker Review” Looks good!! Pingback:NPD Sales For September 2015 \| NintendoTimes Pingback:Super Mario Maker Update Adds Checkpoints \| NintendoTimes Pingback:The New & Improved Digital Nintendo \| NintendoTimes Buy yourself a real pogo stick and jump around for a few hours and you’ll find more enjoyment. Bad Dudes, Baseball Stars, Cobra Triangle, Defender of the Crown, Strider, Super Sprint, and Thundercade are covered, plus all of the gaming print media from July of 1989. Don’t miss out on our “Movies to Games Sound Selection Trivia”! Features Headline Podcasts Nintendo Times Radio 92: Most Influential Games July 8, 2019 Craig Majaski 0 Features Headline Nintendo Switch Podcasts Nintendo Times Radio 91: E3 2019 Final Thoughts June 24, 2019 Craig Majaski 0 E3 Features Headline Podcasts Nintendo Times Radio 90.5: E3 2019 Special – Nintendo Direct Reactions Nintendo Times Radio 90.4: E3 2019 Special – Square Enix Press Conference Reactions Latest Warp Zone NES Reviews Warp Zone Mega Man 2 Review If you only pick up one game for your NES this summer, make sure it’s this one! Monster Party Review July 3, 1989 Aaron Conwell 0 Features Game Boy NES Warp Zone June 1989 Computer Entertainer Game Boy NES News Warp Zone Nintendo Stars At Electronics Show NES News Warp Zone Nintendo Zaps Atari: Tengen’s Tetris Must Be Pulled From Stores	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4246
__label__cc	0.539625	0.460375	Posts tagged ‘Ethan Wiley’ What are we afraid of, and why do we love being scared by movies? This question occupied my mind during the time we edited and published our newest book The Anatomy of Fear. I am a wimp when it comes to horror movies, but I do enjoy a good scare. Both genres tap into a shady part of the human psyche. Horror wants us to laugh when we’re uncomfortable, keep looking when we want to turn away, and live with a total lack of happy endings. And because no one expects horror films to toe the line, they get to flirt with madness and imperfection while making the most interesting, controversial observations. The Anatomy of Fear explores all this, and more. Filmmakers Chris and Kathleen Vander Kaay interview 21 horror and science-fiction film writers and directors to get the inside story on the inspiration, creation, and behind-the-scenes experiences of box office blockbusters. This book is not about films, exactly; it’s about the conversations those films create. All the films and the discussions with filmmakers have something to say about society, religion, sex, death, and the universal fears that connect us to each other in a fundamental way that no language or common interest ever could. The Anatomy of Fear explores all the permutations of this, and more, in ongoing conversations with all the horror and thriller writers and directors you’d most love to meet: The Anatomy of Fear is essential reading for every horror movie buff. Buy the book and see the movies! Sammie Justesen is a publisher with NorLightsPress and the author of Dialogue for Writers, released in May, 2014. She is also an artist and president of the Lawrence County Art Association.	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4253
__label__cc	0.545863	0.454137	Nottingham Poetry Society The Society “promotes the best in poetry”, and holds a variety of events throughout the year to do so, including slam competitions, workshops, readings, lectures, and more. Our Featured Poets Welcome to Nottingham Poetry Society website. Poetry Nottingham Publications is the publishing arm of Nottingham Poetry Society. Occasional collections of poetry are published by Poetry Nottingham Publications and have included the work of Peter Cash, Peter Sansom, Huw Watkins, Joan Downar, Cathy Grindrod, Adrian Buckner among others. To request further details, please contact us. Catalogue: NPS SEVENTY. Anthology of present members’ poems to celebrate the Seventy years of Nottingham Poetry Society. Pub. 2011 pp 66 Available from NPS Price £5.00 +p&p NPS SIXTY An Anthlogy of poetry by current members of Nottingham Poetry Society published to celebrate the Societies 60th Anniversary in October 2001. Launched on 3rd October 2001 at the NPS 60th Birthday Party as part of a week-long ‘Poetry in the City’ event organised by Nottingham City Council, this anthology contains poems selected by Amanda Dalton, Education Director of the Royal Exchange, Manchester, and Poet-in-Residence at Southwell Minster during 2000. ISBN:0 906842 14 X Price £3.00 + p&p. Obtainable from bookshops and Poetry Nottingham Publications, 71 Saxton Avenue, Heanor, Derbyshire DE75 7PZ (contact us for further details)	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4257
__label__wiki	0.921728	0.921728	The Terror of 1492: By Fire, By Water 1492, anti-Semitism, bigotry, book review, Christopher Columbus, conversos, expulsion, Ferdinand and Isabella, Granada, historical fiction, Inquisition, Jews, literary fiction, Luis de Santángel, Mitchell James Kaplan, Spain, Torquemada Review: By Fire, By Water, by Mitchell James Kaplan Other Press, 2010. 284 pp. $16 Luis de Santángel, chancellor of Aragon and trusted counselor of King Fernando, has a fatal secret, half of which is common knowledge. Everyone knows that three generations back, Santángel’s family was Jewish. Such is the suspicion against so-called conversos, however, that a man like Santángel, despite considerable service to the crown, must never be seen talking to a Jew or found possessing Jewish texts or ritual objects. Consequently, the other half of Luis’s secret is that he’s begun to feel curiosity about his Jewish roots. But the Inquisition, led by Tomás Torquemada, Queen Ysabel’s confessor, operates a large, many-tentacled network of spies and informers. And when they sweep up a close friend of Santángel’s, a fellow converso, for having secretly observed Jewish rituals and discussed the holy texts, Luis has had enough. Recognizing the danger to himself and his son, and believing that Torquemada’s brutalities are un-Christian behavior and unwise politics, he decides that the Inquisition must be checked. But that is a very tall order, notwithstanding King Fernando’s comparative lack of religious zeal. Ysabel has enough for both. I like how Kaplan handles the politics, whether royal or ecclesiastical. The characterizations of Torquemada, Fernando, and Ysabel have depth and conviction. It would be too easy to betray them as cardboard villains, but Kaplan takes the high road, showing them as true to themselves. Consider, for example, this passage through Torquemada’s eyes: The inquisitor general loved the sharp, rough, solid feel of skillfully hewn stones, joined together with or without mortar. They yielded to the will of man only with difficulty, but once shaped, did not budge. They stayed where one placed them. They performed their humble tasks without grumbling or questioning, holding up a building, providing shelter through storms, giving townsfolk a place to gather and pray. Of course, they were not alive, but they were part of God’s creation, and thus worthy of man’s respect. Aye, of man’s wonderment. Of particular interest is how Fernando, as King of Aragon, is the less powerful monarch, conscious that Ysabel brought more to their marriage than he did. He’s much more interested in conquering the lone remaining Moorish bastion, Granada, than in church affairs, a preference that has disastrous consequences. I also like how the narrative depicts another friend of Santángel’s, a Genoese sailor named Cristóbal Colón. He has the harebrained idea, based largely on religious texts, that he can sail west from Spain and reach both the Indies and Jerusalem. Santángel has arranged an audience for Colón with the monarchs. Luis de Santángel, by an unknown nineteenth-century artist (courtesy Museo Naval de Madrid via Wikimedia Commons; public domain in the U.S.) I’m less drawn to the other characters and subplots. Luis, a widower, falls for a beautiful Jewish widow in Granada, Judith Migdal. She’s a silversmith, an extraordinary fact, but one that few people seem to remark on or object to. That idealized glow shrouds much of what she does, for Judith has no apparent faults, and her unerring social skills always save the day. Kaplan re-creates Jewish life in Granada with love and fervor, and I like reading about that. But aside from subtly underlining that the Spanish monarchs are bent on destroying a culture of which they understand nothing and from which they could learn much, its place in the narrative sometimes feels tenuous. The romance is frankly unbelievable and turns on a cliché. Finally, the narrative seems to suspend itself during the religious debates that move Santángel closer to the faith of his ancestors, and the relative absence of tension feels jarring, given that these discussions could cost the participants their lives. I understand why Kaplan has included these scenes, because he wants to show the natural human curiosity about what is forbidden, and to score a few philosophical and theological points. But I think the novel would have worked better had he focused more on the politics, and I wish those had determined the ending rather than the deus ex machina he employs. Nevertheless, By Fire, By Water has something to say, and though it reenacts events more than five centuries old, to recount the lengths to which bigots will go unfortunately retains deep relevance. Thirty years ago, when visiting an antiquarian in Toledo who had Jewish ritual objects for sale, I mentioned the expulsion, only to be told that I’d “insulted” his king and queen. By Fire, By Water is as clear a fictional exposure of that attitude as you’re likely to find.	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4258
__label__wiki	0.526456	0.526456	Another anniversary: sure but the Fukushima nuclear disaster is still ongoing everyday of the year Every year since year 2011, at this time of the year when the anniversary of the Fukushima nuclear disaster comes, I feel angry, tired and depressed. First for the unwillingness to learn and to change. How many nuclear disasters have already happened and how many more will need to happen for people to finally learn and bring vital changes. Also because when a disaster occurs it is suddenly hot news, everybody getting excited, thrilled with its sensationalism, some even exploiting it by turning it into fear porn. Then with time passing by, when it is not hot news anymore but becomes a cold old news, people kinda forget about it. They only remember it again just when its anniversary comes. But for the people on location, in Fukushima, everyday is a Fukushima anniversary, they have to live with it. An American antinuclear friend of mine recently talking about the coming Fukushima nuclear disaster anniversary employed the word “occured”, “occured” in the past tense. I immediately reacted, english is not my mother tongue, but I pointed out to her that it was wrong for her to use the verb occur in its past tense, that it would be more correct to use the words “started”, because the Fukushima nuclear disaster started on March 11, 2011, and since then is still now ongoing unsolved. The Fukushima nuclear disaster after 8 years is maybe a cold news, but its 3 reactors are still hot and will be still hot for decades and even more, for a very long time, as the technology to stop the fusion of a meltdown corium does not exist, has not been yet invented. Even those specially-made expensive robots cannot handle it, getting rapidly fried after few hours or a couple of days. This is the contrary of course of the propaganda hammered by all media, orchestrated by Tepco, the Japanese Government and the Nuclear Lobby, which claims that the situation is now under control, that solutions are being worked out to gradually dismantle the whole thing. All part of a massive campaign of disinformation downplaying the real situation in the mind of the general public. What also makes me angry is that most of the year, the media are not really covering anymore the Fukushima disaster, but at the time of the Fukushima disaster’s anniversary they are suddenly in a frenzy, each one to publish one article about it, those articles just repeating over and over again the same spiel spread over the years by Tepco. A well oiled spiel orchestrated by Dentsu, the Tepco’s public relations company, and ETHOS, the nuclear lobby’s public relations organization, working together to downplay the disaster’s situation in the mind of the general public, and to soothe the fears of the victimized population on location so as to make them stay and live with radiation in the affected zones zone. No damage control of the meltdown, but a effective damage control of the mind of the public. No, the Fukushima nuclear disaster has not ended, it is still ongoing. The Fukushima people have to live with the radiation affecting their daily life, dangerous radioactive microparticles present everywhere, contamination of their produce, water, air and living environment. By ordering the state of emergency in 2011, the government raised the radiation threshold from the international standard of 1 mSv per year to 20mSv per year for Fukushima, declaring it safe to live with. Mind you the 20 mSv per year threshold is the international radiation threshold for nuclear workers inside nuclear plants, not for the public.Nuclear workers during their work are allowed to be exposed up to 20 mSV within a five year work period. We have now in Fukushima prefecture a population of almost 2 million people, included children and infants, left to live in contaminated territory at radiation level meant for nuclear workers only. While the media never fail to talk about about the decommissioning of the Fukushima Daiichi reactors and of the decontamination of Fukushima Prefecture, they always fail to mention that those three reactors thru their unstopped meltdown are still constantly releasing radionuclides loaded gases into the open air, into the environment, distributed by winds locally and even far away. Why none of those media ever mention the 20 plus incinerators operating in Fukushima prefecture? Those incinerators incinerate radioactive debris accumulated from land decontamination during the the past years, wanting to reduce the 16 million tons of radioactive debris scattered all over the Fukushima prefecture, usually covered by green tarpaulin to make them looked like some kind of new rice paddies from afar. Those incinerators which are also redistributing radioactive particles into the air, into the environment. When it comes to the Shoah during WWII, there is the memory duty, to keep future generations knowing about it, to not forget, and to keep it from ever happening again. When it comes to nuclear disasters, where is the memory duty? I believe that only to celebrate an anniversary once a year is not enough. Especially when it comes to a still ongoing unresolved disaster. How many more of such nuclear disasters do we need to us to finally force our elected politicians to put an end to the nuclear madness? Links to various articles from March 1 to March 11, 2019, the best ones carrying * three stars should definitely to be read: Atomic Balm Part 1: Prime Minister Abe Uses The Tokyo Olympics As Snake Oil Cure For The Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Meltdowns The Fukushima Nuclear Disaster and the Tokyo Olympics https://apjjf.org/2019/05/Koide-Field.html Schools refitted in Fukushima, but enrollment remains dismal http://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/AJ201903010026.html Most mayors of disaster-hit Fukushima areas urge review of compensation guidelines: survey https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20190305/p2a/00m/0na/010000c?fbclid=IwAR25inQCnDNCIHVvmkKWhDsnhat61eAtK3ood5Wv49B0gGzXhStcrPuyNlU Scars are there, but Fukushima residents trying to pick up pieces Fukushima’s ice wall keeps radiation from spreading around the world https://www.cnet.com/news/fukushima-ice-wall-prevents-leaking-of-radioactive-water/ Judge Tosses Fukushima Radiation Class Action https://www.courthousenews.com/judge-tosses-fukushima-radiation-class-action/?fbclid=IwAR0k8neznA_akauYaIehDHQAEDj4yC5GrWRXFNahu_HvIw31d-NGgWBBQWY 2019 Annual Report On The Fukushima Disaster (Technical, unfortunately based only on Tepco’s released reports, and we all know are how reliable is Tepco with facts and numbers, Tepco in 8 years have never been honest nor staighforwading with facts, lying always thru their teeth). http://www.fukuleaks.org/web/?p=17013&fbclid=IwAR3Kz4aJ1VANMOYnFbDMga7Bg3fa99P5MD02z1OcH7uBWPnv7vqdJcwlmJs Japan leg of 2020 Olympics torch relay to start at J-Village in Fukushima https://www.japantimes.co.jp/sports/2019/03/06/olympics/summer-olympics/japan-leg-2020-olympics-torch-relay-start-j-village-fukushima/?fbclid=IwAR20imGAPigLO8KOHHtstenaNMsQdkwG2xcVjYddiE0YqD7FmLBLP6KcP9Q#.XH8hxoplChA Nuclear evacuees to face tougher housing situations from April https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20190307/p2g/00m/0dm/086000c?fbclid=IwAR0TOwS_fiFBdMrH5yeRSyK1V-k53ig38E5u8ZvnQISB9Vip034FJJSNyT4 Eight years after triple meltdown, Fukushima No. 1’s water woes slow to recede https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2019/03/07/national/eight-years-triple-meltdown-fukushima-no-1s-water-woes-slow-recede/ 8 Years On: Revenue to Fall at Fukushima Towns after Plant Decommissioning https://www.nippon.com/en/news/yjj2019030600483/8-years-on-revenue-to-fall-at-fukushima-towns-after-plant-decommissioning.html 12.5% of Japanese city-dwellers still hesitant about buying food from nuclear disaster-hit Fukushima https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2019/03/07/national/12-5-japanese-city-dwellers-still-hesitant-buying-food-nuclear-disaster-hit-fukushima/ First images of fuel debris fallout particles from Fukushima Daiichi http://bristol.ac.uk/news/2019/march/fukushima-particles.html Eight Years on, Fukushima Still Poses Health Risks for Children http://www.ipsnews.net/2019/03/eight-years-fukushima-still-poses-health-risks-children/ Contaminated soil remains near Fukushima homes https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20190307_09/ Fukushima at 8: Accusations of scientific misconduct concern city in Japan http://www.beyondnuclear.org/radiation-health-whats-new/2019/3/7/fukushima-at-8-accusations-of-scientific-misconduct-concern.html The Fukushima nuclear disaster’s legacy: An inescapable stigma https://www.cnet.com/news/the-fukushima-nuclear-disasters-legacy-an-inescapable-stigma/ UK, Japan scientists study radioactive Fukushima particles https://www.reuters.com/article/us-japan-disaster-radiation/uk-japan-scientists-study-radioactive-fukushima-particles-idUSKCN1QP1GF 23% of residents have returned to former Fukushima hazard zones https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20190308/p2g/00m/0na/003000c?fbclid=IwAR1B8duaWLIKuQY-Y2iGHdof1fuipclyizfdiUoGQmRmPmOuUo-hH9_5SB8 Fukushima evacuees resist return as ‘Reconstruction Olympics’ nears https://www.rappler.com/world/regions/asia-pacific/225245-fukushima-evacuees-resist-return-reconstruction-olympics-near?fbclid=IwAR21Y8naQX2Cg41Y3hCA0-Qzyy9cfg05Po4yROCqt4QVRTE3TFGAhze0Ils Eight years on, water woes threaten Fukushima cleanup https://www.reuters.com/article/us-japan-nuclear-water/eight-years-on-water-woes-threaten-fukushima-cleanup-idUSKCN1QP0MA Fukushima : un risque de cancer de la thyroïde multiplié par 15 http://www.fukushima-blog.com/2019/03/fukushima-un-risque-de-cancer-de-la-thyroide-multiplie-par-15.html?fbclid=IwAR3BPbE6-pR-kVz8bPRwSYg1Mv_LVdFtbJWliYbGKBri6Ujd57EbVxE9m3E Japanese government misleading UN on impact of Fukushima fallout on children, decontamination workers https://www.greenpeace.org/international/press-release/21316/japanese-government-misleading-un-on-impact-of-fukushima-fallout-on-children-decontamination-workers/?fbclid=IwAR04ENv0vwc1icWxgS9g9H4MOYF0wq_5Wq642WuC6HnCbXZXvQqXYmVGZuU Damages Suit of The Fukushima Nuclear Disaster, Kyoto Over 12,000 Fukushima victims have filed 30 cases in different regions against the government and TEPCO: http://fukushimakyoto.namaste.jp/shien_kyoto/eng/index.html?fbclid=IwAR2_AHK9hmSUmIDAXObI-e3yIDWKrAqQ6gNe5nqVxL0LPyfZ_aUJUtoo2yI Back in the water: Fukushima no-go zone gets first surf shop since disaster https://www.theguardian.com/world/2019/mar/08/back-in-the-water-fukushima-no-go-zone-gets-first-surf-shop-since-disaster?fbclid=IwAR330VqZn2GDBbLS4_v7RnfcD_47AR9x6CwYa8qIMUHE_BglqbJ3d6gHIoQ Atomic Balm Part 2: The Run For Your Life Tokyo Olympics https://www.fairewinds.org/demystify/atomic-balm-part-2-the-run-for-your-life-tokyo-olympics?fbclid=IwAR3-764z9mKg-0c2NdELSo6_JTNCL47h7wt4bNU7kwEGjCextTvgtkmZ2QM Health issues (and corruption of the medical system) after the Fukushima nuclear disaster https://fukushima311voices.com/2019/03/09/to-those-who-are-working-hard-for-renouncing-nuclear-energy-message-from-ruiko-muto/?fbclid=IwAR3YLZtICA7eKy_JcZTYuDvobmcti4NYUoFQhI9maxEPaFwB6yOFdFlBYjE March 10, 2019 Posted by dunrenard \| fukushima 2019 \| Fukushima anniversary \| 1 Comment Eight Years on, Fukushima Nuclear Disaster Still Poses Health Risks https://havanatimes.org/?p=149927 March 9, 2019 By Akio Matsumura HAVANA TIMES – On March 11, we commemorate the 8th anniversary of the Fukushima nuclear disaster. To an outside observer, this anniversary passes as a technical progress report, a look at new robot, or a short story on how lives there are slowly returning to normal. Yet in Japan, the government has not figured out how to touch or test the irradiated cores in the three crippled reactors, which continue to contaminate water around the site of the melt down. The government does not know where it will put that radioactive material once it can find a way to move it. Meanwhile, the government and site operator are running out of room to store the contaminated water, which is filling up more and more tanks. The cleanup is estimated to take forty years and the cost is estimated at $195 billion. The latest publicly released findings of radiation levels are from 2017, when Tokyo Electric Power Company had to use a remote-controlled robot to detect the levels in Reactor 2, since no human can approach the crippled reactor. The rates read 530 sieverts per hour, the highest since the March 2011 meltdown. We have no reason to believe that they have fallen since then. Remote-control robots are being used in the other reactors as well, indicating that radiation levels are similarly high there. Even using the robot, work can only be carried out for very short times, since the robots can only stand 1000 sieverts of exposure – less than two hours in this case. This is an extremely high amount of radiation. After TEPCO published the rate, the Asahi Shimbun reported that “an official of the National Institute of Radiological Sciences said medical professionals have never considered dealing with this level of radiation in their work.” The Japan Times quoted Dr. Fumiya Tanabe, an expert on nuclear safety, who said that the “findings show that both the preparation for and the actual decommissioning process at the plant will likely prove much more difficult than expected.” Fukushima’s Children Need International Attention There have been many victims of this disaster. Thousands of people have been displaced from their homes. Local fishermen are worried that the government will proceed with its plan to dump the storage tanks of contaminated water into the ocean. Others worry that the flow of the radioactive wind and contaminated water are reaching North America and will continue to do so for the next forty years. Above all of these important issues, it is the children of Fukushima who most need our attention. They are at risk of higher rates of cancer because of their exposure to the contamination from the initial explosion. In Chernobyl, the only comparable case we have, more than 6,000 cases of thyroid cancer were found in children according to the UN through 2005. There is evidence that thyroid cancer rates are higher among Fukushima’s children than the national population, but it is a latent disease: it is still too early to tell what the full impact will be. But it is clear the case needs action. Scientists will always offer different opinions, swayed first by uncertainty, but also, sadly, by politics, money, and ambition. Some will claim that the evidence has been exaggerated, underestimated, or that perhaps we’re at too early a stage to be certain. Or that we need more time to clarify the results. I have seen many instances of these arguments at the United Nations and international science conferences. Why do we wait and make another mistake? Helen Caldicott, a medical doctor and founding president of Physicians for Social Responsibility, part of a larger umbrella group that was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1985, wrote: “The truth is that most politicians, businessmen, engineers and nuclear physicists have no innate understanding of radiobiology and the way radiation induces cancer, congenital malformations and genetic diseases which are passed generation to generation. Nor do they recognize that children are 20 times more radiosensitive than adults, girls twice as vulnerable as little boys and fetuses much more so.” UNICEF Can Lead We face many complex challenges of climate change, poverty alleviation, and national security. The health and welfare of children must always be our top priority. They are our future; our deepest purpose is to care and provide for them. By deciding not to fully investigate the effects of Fukushima, we fail them. We all agree with that personally, but which institution is best positioned to carry out the mission? To me, UNICEF, the United Nations Children’s Fund, is the only answer. Indeed, putting children above national security is at UNICEF’s core. Maurice Pate, an American humanitarian and businessman who joined UNICEF at its inception in 1947, agreed to serve as the Executive Director upon the condition that UNICEF serves the children of “ex-enemy countries, regardless of race or politics.” In 1965, at the end of Pate’s term, the organization won the Nobel Peace Prize. To this day, its mission includes a commitment to “ensuring special protection for the most disadvantaged children – victims of war, disasters, extreme poverty, all forms of violence and exploitation and those with disabilities.” The children of Fukushima deserve the protection of UNICEF. Akio Matsumura is also the Secretary General of the Global Forum Moscow Conference hosted by President Gorbachev at the Kremlin in 1990 as well as of the Parliamentary Earth Summit Conference hosted by Brazil National Assembly in Rio de Janeiro in 1992 March 10, 2019 Posted by Christina MacPherson \| children, Fukushima continuing \| Leave a comment Japan’s culture of cover-up and denial about the Fukushima nuclear catastrophe Trust fails to recover from nuclear disaster, Borneo Bulletin March 10, 2019 Simon Denyer ……….facts and spreadsheets supplied by the government are one thing. Rebuilding trust among locals may be significantly harder, thanks to a culture of cover-ups and denials that contributed to the nuclear accident and continues to dog Japan’s efforts to restart its nuclear industry, experts say. …….. at least 24 countries and territories ban some produce from Fukushima. South Korea and China still impose a total food ban. The US prohibits Fukushima produce such as mushrooms, leafy vegetables and broccoli. Fishermen now only ply the seas two days a week: Fish from Fukushima, which once enjoyed a high reputation in Tokyo’s fish market, is no longer the flavour of the day. The government blames “harmful rumours”, a phrase that dominated the two-day press tour and has been labelled the fourth disaster to hit Fukushima, after the earthquake, tsunami and nuclear accident. Yet there is a much deeper trust deficit that remains extremely hard to overcome. Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO), the operator of the ill-fated plant, spent two months after the nuclear disaster denying that a meltdown had occurred. TEPCO later apologised for a “cover-up” that remains the source of much bitterness among people here. Katsunobu Sakurai, former mayor of the nearby town of Minamisoma, said TEPCO gave out very little information about the disaster during a chaotic evacuation that ultimately led to the deaths of 3,700 people, including many elderly people whose medical care was interrupted. In 2012, TEPCO was forced to admit that it had failed to heed safety warnings before the accident, or even consider the risk of a large tsunami, because it feared doing so would undermine public confidence in the industry. Experts say TEPCO has still failed to come clean about the problems associated with decommissioning the reactors and Bags of nuclear waste generated after the meltdown of one of Fukushima’s nuclear power plants in 2011 are now stored in the nearby town of Naraha. MUST CREDIT: photo for The Washington Post by Shiho Fukada. decontaminating the environment. “To me, talking about ‘harmful rumours’ sounds like they are making someone else the bad guy or villain, as if they are blaming people for saying negative things because they don’t understand science and radiation,” said Riken Komatsu, a community activist in Onahama. “But those who have lost our trust do not have the right” to talk about harmful rumours, Komatsu added. The government and TEPCO say the nuclear power plant itself could take 30 or 40 years to decommission and estimates the cleanup will cost 22 trillion yen (USD200 billion). But in 2015, the plant’s manager told London’s Times newspaper that the technological challenges involved in removing hundreds of tonnes of molten radioactive fuel from three reactors could mean decommissioning will take 200 years. The Japan Center for Economic Research, a conservative think tank, estimates the cleanup bill could come to 50 trillion to 70 trillion yen (USD460 billion to 640 billion). One of the biggest problems involves groundwater that seeps into the reactor buildings, mixes with cooling water and becomes radioactive. TEPCO has been trying to limit water contamination ever since the accident, creating a mile-long “ice wall” of sunken, frozen soil around the reactors to keep water out, and another concrete wall to prevent it from reaching the ocean. In 2016, TEPCO admitted that the ice wall was only slowing – but not preventing – water seeping in. Today, around 100 cubic metres of groundwater still become contaminated at Fukushima every day, and one million tonnes of radioactive water is stored in 994 huge tanks around the site. A new tank fills up every seven to 10 days, and storage space is running out. TEPCO had initially claimed that 26 out of 27 radioactive nuclides had been removed from that water through an advanced treatment system, living only tritium behind. But after reports by Kyodo news and local media, and a protest by fishermen, the company acknowledged last September that 80 per cent of the tanks contain water that is still contaminated with dangerous radioactive elements, including strontium-90, a bone-seeking radionuclide that causes cancer. Launching his successful bid for the 2020 Summer Olympics, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said the situation at Fukushima was “under control”. One of his predecessors, Junichiro Koizumi said the water crisis showed that was a lie. An external committee established by TEPCO to advise the board of directors said it is “very frustrated” at the company’s inability to communicate properly. ……… https://borneobulletin.com.bn/trust-fails-to-recover-from-nuclear-disaster/ March 10, 2019 Posted by Christina MacPherson \| Japan, Reference, secrets,lies and civil liberties \| Leave a comment Fukushima’s radioactive water – over 1000 tanks of it, and no solution in sight 8 years on, contaminated water remains big problem for Fukushima clean-up, Japan Today, Mar. 10 By Kiyoshi Takenaka OKUMA Eight years after the Fukushima nuclear crisis, a fresh obstacle threatens to undermine the massive clean-up: 1 million tons of contaminated water must be stored, possibly for years, at the power plant. Last year, Tokyo Electric Power Co (TEPCO) said a system meant to purify contaminated water had failed to remove dangerous radioactive contaminants. That means most of that water – stored in 1,000 tanks around the plant – will need to be reprocessed before it is released into the ocean, the most likely scenario for disposal. Reprocessing could take nearly two years and divert personnel and energy from dismantling the tsunami-wrecked reactors, a project that will take up to 40 years. It is unclear how much that would delay decommissioning. But any delay could be pricey; the government estimated in 2016 that the total cost of plant dismantling, decontamination of affected areas, and compensation, would amount to 21.5 trillion yen ($192.5 billion), roughly 20 percent of the country’s annual budget. Tepco is already running out of space to store treated water. And should another big quake strike, experts say tanks could crack, unleashing tainted liquid and washing highly radioactive debris into the ocean. Fishermen struggling to win back the confidence of consumers are vehemently opposed to releasing reprocessed water – deemed largely harmless by Japan’s nuclear watchdog, the Nuclear Regulation Authority (NRA) – into the ocean. “That would destroy what we’ve been building over the past eight years,” said Tetsu Nozaki, head of the Fukushima Prefectural Federation of Fisheries Co-operative Associations. Last year’s catch was just 15 percent of pre-crisis levels, partly because of consumer reluctance to eat fish caught off Fukushima. On a visit to the wrecked Fukushima Daiichi plant last month, huge cranes hovered over the four reactor buildings that hug the coast. Workers could be seen atop the No. 3 building getting equipment ready to lift spent fuel rods out of a storage pool, a process that could start next month. In most areas around the plant, workers no longer need to wear face masks and full body suits to protect against radiation. Only the reactor buildings or other restricted areas require special equipment. Fanning out across the plant’s property are enough tanks to fill 400 Olympic-sized swimming pools. Machines called Advanced Liquid Processing Systems, or ALPS, had treated the water inside them. ….. The utility has promised to re-purify the water if the government decides that releasing it into the ocean is the best solution. It is the cheapest of five options a government task force considered in 2016; others included evaporation and burial. TEPCO and the government are now waiting for another panel of experts to issue recommendations. The head of the panel declined an interview request. No deadline has been set. ……… STORING INDEFINITELY Another option is to store the water for decades in enormous tanks normally used for crude oil. The tanks have been tested for durability, said Yasuro Kawai, a plant engineer and a member of Citizens’ Commission on Nuclear Energy, a group advocating abandoning nuclear energy. Each tank holds 100,000 tons, so 10 such tanks could store the roughly 1 million tons of water processed by ALPS so far, he said. The commission proposes holding the tritium-laced water, which has a half life of 12.3 years, in tanks for 123 years. After that, it will be one thousandth as radioactive as it was when it went into storage. No Safe Dose – Berkeley Although experts caution that tanks would be vulnerable to major quakes, Japan’s trade and industry minister, Hiroshige Seko, said the committee would consider them anyway. “Long-term storage … has an upside as radiation levels come down while it is in storage. But there is a risk of leakage,” Seko told Reuters. “It is difficult to hold the water indefinitely, so the panel will also look into how it should be disposed of eventually.” Space is also a problem, said Akira Ono, TEPCO’s chief decommissioning officer. By 2020, the utility will expand tank storage capacity by 10 percent to 1.37 million tons, and about 95 percent of total capacity will probably be used by the end of that year, he said. “Tanks are now being built on flat, elevated spots in stable locations,” Ono said. But such ideal space is getting scarce, he added. Many local residents hope TEPCO will just keep storing the water. If it does get released into the ocean, “everyone would sink into depression,” said fishing trawler captain Koichi Matsumoto. …… https://japantoday.com/category/national/Eight-years-on-contaminated-water-remains-big-problem-for-Fukushima-clean-up March 10, 2019 Posted by Christina MacPherson \| Fukushima continuing \| Leave a comment “Recovery Olympics” does not impress everyone ‘Recovery Olympics’ moniker for 2020 Games rubs 3/11 evacuees the wrong way, Japan Times, BY MAGDALENA OSUMISTAFF WRITER, 11 Mar 19, This is the fourth in a series examining how the northeast and the nation are progressing with efforts to deal with the March 2011 earthquake, tsunami and nuclear crisis.ISHINOMAKI, MIYAGI PREF. – The town of Rifu on the outskirts of Sendai is set to host 10 soccer matches during the 2020 Olympics and Paralympics in line with the organizers’ plan to tout the games as the “Recovery Olympics.” For Rifu, expectations are high the 2020 Games will draw international attention and lure more tourists, as Tohoku’s tourism sector struggles to recover from the Great East Japan Earthquake and ensuing tsunami on March 11, 2001. As part of the plan, an arena in Miyagi Prefecture is set to get a face-lift for the games. ……. The central government hopes the quadrennial sports event will serve as a platform to show that the nation has recovered from the disasters. But recovery wasn’t one of the original themes for the Tokyo Games. The concept was added when it became apparent Tokyo wouldn’t be able to secure all the venues needed in the capital or its vicinity. When organizers thus turned to the disaster-hit prefectures of Miyagi and Fukushima, which will host the softball and baseball games, the recovery spin was born, with officials saying the event would contribute to reconstruction. Moreover, the reconstruction plan for the Tohoku region is expected to end when fiscal 2020 closes in March 2021, putting an end to various central government subsidies that helped both victims and municipalities. “The Tokyo 2020 Games have become a goal for us to show the region has recovered,” said Yasuki Sato, a Miyagi Prefecture official tasked with coordinating the preparations. But residents in the area view the preparations as something happening in the background. In fact, some believe they are actually hindering the region’s recovery……. https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2019/03/10/national/recovery-olympics-moniker-2020-games-rubs-3-11-evacuees-wrong-way/#.XIXon8kzbGg March 10, 2019 Posted by Christina MacPherson \| Japan, politics \| 1 Comment Junichiro Koizumi now a formidable foe to the nuclear industry As someone who believes he was deceived by the nuclear power lobby during his time as prime minister, he sees it as his duty. “Just as Confucius said, for someone not to correct themselves after making a mistake — that is a true mistake.” As Japan’s leader, Junichiro Koizumi backed nuclear power. Now he’s a major foe. WP By Simon Denyer, Akiko Kashiwagi contributed to this report.March 10 TOKYO — With his shock of white hair, his love for Elvis and his reputation as a maverick, Junichiro Koizumi was a burst of color in the sober, dark-suited world of Japanese politics more than a decade ago. Today, Koizumi has come out of retirement to join a battle against the entrenched business and political interests he had tangled with in the past. A man known for his simple catchphrases has a new one to impart: “Zero nuclear power.” Eight years after the March 11, 2011, nuclear meltdown at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant, Koizumi is back in the spotlight, trying to harness the public’s growing distrust of nuclear power and rid his country of an industry he once promoted as prime minister from 2001 to 2006. His reversal on nuclear power reflects a wider reconsideration across Japan after the Fukushima disaster, which was triggered by an earthquake and tsunami. A February 2018 poll by Japan’s Asahi Shimbun newspaper found 61 percent of respondents against the nation’s nuclear power plants being restarted and 27 percent in support. “Momentum is building,” Koizumi said in an interview. “I am getting a strong response. It’s only a matter of time.” Embarrassed by his own role in advocating nuclear power, Koizumi says he has learned from his mistakes. But Japan’s establishment remains firmly behind nuclear plants, even as other nuclear critics often point out the dangers posed by Japan’s quakes and tsunamis, a word Japan gave the world. “The disaster brought a severe crisis, but we can turn crisis into opportunity. We can manage ourselves with renewables,” he said. “Take Germany, for example. They saw the disaster in Japan and changed their energy policy. But of all countries, Japan has not changed. It’s truly incomprehensible.” Japan shut down all of its 54 reactors after the Fukushima catastrophe. Explosions in three reactors sent a cloud of radioactive dust across vast swaths of northeastern Japan and forced 165,000 people to flee their homes. But since Shinzo Abe was reelected prime minister in 2012, his government has been on a mission to get the nuclear power industry back on its feet. Nine reactors have already been restarted, six more applications to restart have been approved by a new, nominally independent Nuclear Regulation Authority, and the government wants nuclear power to contribute 20 percent to 22 percent of the nation’s energy by 2030. ….A damning report by an independent parliamentary panel in 2012 concluded that the Fukushima Daiichi disaster was “profoundly man-made,” caused by a disregard of the risks of earthquakes by an industry determined to preserve the illusion that nuclear power was absolutely safe. Instead of supervising the nuclear power industry, METI colluded with it, the report said. It said the risks of nuclear power were downplayed in a culture of “reflexive obedience” and a “reluctance to question authority.” …… why are elected politicians so determined to press ahead? The answer, Koizumi asserted, lies in those same vested interests he has spent the best part of his career fighting. ……. So much money has also been invested in the industry that there is a reluctance to write investments off. But Koizumi says nuclear power is neither economic nor necessary. The country, he noted, survived without it for two years without a single blackout. ……. Other voices of criticism struggle to be heard. Shigeaki Koga, an energy industry expert, says his career was sidelined at METI after he expressed doubts about the safety of nuclear power, until he was ultimately forced to resign. He has since emerged as a leading public critic of nuclear power. Kunihiko Shimazaki, one of Japan’s leading seismologists, warned of the risks of earthquakes and tsunamis along the country’s northeast coast for years before the disaster struck, but his reports were generally ignored or buried. After March 2011, he served for two years with the nuclear regulator, and spoke out forcefully, but his term was not renewed. ……….. As someone who believes he was deceived by the nuclear power lobby during his time as prime minister, he sees it as his duty. https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/asia_pacific/as-japans-leader-junichiro-koizumi-backed-nuclear-power-now-hes-a-major-foe/2019/03/09/d1106ee8-4037-11e9-85ad-779ef05fd9d8_story.html?utm_term=.fdaa32b9fba7 March 10, 2019 Posted by Christina MacPherson \| Japan, politics \| Leave a comment Nuclear lobby groups Foratom and Romatom propagandise for nuclear – at “climate-friendly” event Nuclear lobby forgot to invite critics to Romania’s EU debate, EU Observer By PETER TEFFER BRUSSELS, TODAY, 10 Mar 19, Some 75 people showed up last month at an event organised at Romania’s EU embassy – its so-called ‘permanent representation’ in Brussels. The topic was ‘How to create a climate-friendly future in Europe’. The sponsors were Foratom and Romatom, two nuclear lobby organisations. Foratom calls itself “the voice of the European nuclear industry” and represents 15 national nuclear associations, including Romatom, which is a lobby group representing Romanian nuclear companies. Their message was clear. It was written on a banner next to the speakers’ lectern at the event on 19 February, which said: “Nuclear energy is essential to an EU low-carbon future”. The nuclear lobby gave its message extra weight by attaching it to the six-month Romanian presidency of the EU Council. But there was one thing missing – anyone with an even mildly critical view of nuclear energy. I have not received any invitation and as far as we can see nobody in our office has,” Klaus Rohrig, a green campaigner, told EUobserver afterwards. Rohrig is the EU climate and energy policy coordinator at Climate Action Network (CAN) Europe, one of the leading environmental NGOs in the ‘Brussels bubble’. “It is very likely that one of us would have gone to such an event [if there had been invitations], given its troubling focus on nuclear [energy] in the context of the EU’s long-term strategy,” said Rohrig…… Nuclear energy is the most expensive form of electricity production and has massive environmental costs,” Sebastian Mang, EU climate and energy policy adviser at Greenpeace, another leading NGO, told EUobserver. But Mang also missed the Romanian EU presidency event because Greenpeace was also not invited. “When discussing climate change people protecting the environment must have a voice,” said Mang. EUobserver and a handful of other media were invited, according to a list of participants, which was distributed at the event. The invitation came in an email sent from a Foratom domain name. But the debate was not publicly announced on the Romanian permanent representation’s website, nor on the websites of Foratom or Romatom. The participants list – which also included people who registered, but who did not show up – consisted of 32 percent of people working for private companies. Some 28 percent of registered participants came from one of the member states’ permanent representations in Brussels, while another 12 percent came from national ministries. Around 13 percent of registrations came from employees of the European Commission. There were no registrations from civil society representatives, unless one counted the handful of representatives of non-profit nuclear energy research institutes…….. The event was held just two weeks after CEO published a report on lobbying via the temporary EU presidencies, in which it said corporate sponsorship of rotating presidencies “now appears to be standard”. The presidencies were “a target for lobbies both before and during the presidency, as a way to influence its agenda and to curry favour”, the report said. EU member states have also use the presidency to promote national industries, the report added. Climate scenarios The idea of the nuclear lobby event at the Romanian embassy was to frame nuclear energy as part of the “Solutions for a 2050 carbon-free Europe”, as the meeting was titled…….. The lobby-sponsored event focused on scenarios and modelling, but did not address public attitudes towards nuclear power. ……. https://euobserver.com/institutional/144341 March 10, 2019 Posted by Christina MacPherson \| EUROPE, spinbuster \| Leave a comment Misleading inaccuracies in BBC report on Hunterston nuclear reactors Ianfairlie 8th March 2019 On March 8, the BBC published a news item about cracks in the Hunterston B nuclear reactors. Whilst it is good that the story highlighted reporting of the safety issues surrounding the plant and, in particular, included photographs of the cracked graphite core, we wish to correct several inaccuracies. The BBC article claims that early decommissioning could cause serious energy supply problems. This is simply not the case and is alarmist nonsense: the reality is that Scotland has, if anything, an oversupply of electricity. Both Hunterston and Torness could be closed without problem to Scotland’s electricity supplies. The BBC article then states that “Concerns have also been raised about the consequences for local jobs if Hunterston closed early.”As pointed out in our article, few if any jobs would be lost if the reactors Hunterston B were closed permanently: dealing with the immense heat rates from radioactive decay even from closed reactors will guarantee jobs there for the first 2 to 3 years. After that decommissioning will provide more jobs then when the reactors operated, just as is occurring at the closed reactors at Dounreay. The BBC cites Councillor Tom Marshall as stating: “Most of the large employers round about here have disappeared – and this is one of the last major employers. So, if it is safe to run most people locally would be happy to see it running.” We obviously share the concerns of local people about deindustrialisation and the appalling effects of the UK Government’s uncivilised austerity programmes in Scotland. But local councillors should\ not be misled by incorrect statements by the nuclear industry. Closing Hunterston B for good will not lead to large numbers of job losses: the contrary in fact. https://www.ianfairlie.org/news/incorrect-statements-in-bbc-news-hunterston-b-pictures-show-cracks-in-ayrshire-nuclear-reactor/ Dave Toke’s Blog 8th March 2019 https://realfeed-intariffs.blogspot.com/2019/03/the-real-story-about-stricken.html March 10, 2019 Posted by Christina MacPherson \| employment, media, UK \| Leave a comment Melting of Arctic sea ice will greatly enhance warming in Arctic Atmospheric scientists reveal the effect of sea-ice loss on Arctic warming https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2019-03/ioap-asr030819.php INSTITUTE OF ATMOSPHERIC PHYSICS, CHINESE ACADEMY OF SCIENCES 8-MAR-2019 Enhanced warming in the Arctic (north of 67°N) is found in both recent observational investigations and model simulations with greenhouse gases (GHGs) emissions increasing. Global warming is occurring twice as fast in the Arctic than anywhere else on Earth. However, why the largest the Arctic amplification (AA) only occurs in certain periods over areas with significant sea-ice loss is still under great debate. Scientists from State University of New York, Albany and Institute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences found the answers by means of historical data analyzation and climate model simulations. Their analyses indicated that AA would not slow down until the 22nd and 23rd centuries, after almost all of the Arctic’s sea ice has melted away with GHGs emissions increasing. “Rapid Arctic warming and sea ice loss are attracting a lot of attention in the media, public and scientific community. Our study links the two together and suggests that the sea ice loss is causing the rapid warming in the Arctic,” said the lead author, Aiguo DAI, In a news release. “When the sea ice melts away completely, this elevated warming will also disappear and the warming rate in the Arctic will be similar to the rest of the world,” According to this research, the large AA only occurs in clod season (October to April), and only over the area of prominent sea-ice loss. This is mainly because seasonal sea-ice melting from May to September causes more extensive upper seawater and absorbs more sunlight during the warm season and the heat energy is stored in sea-surface Arctic waters. Most of this energy is released into the atmosphere through longwave radiation, and latent and sensible heat fluxes to heating the atmosphere during the cold season when Arctic Ocean becomes a heat source, leading to the large AA. Scientists warn that the melting of Arctic sea ice will greatly enhance warming in Arctic for the coming decades and could also impact weather patterns in mid-latitudes, causing more frequent intrusions of winter polar vortex into China and the continental U.S., leading to extreme events including severe winter weather. This research was published in Nature Communications. March 10, 2019 Posted by Christina MacPherson \| ARCTIC, climate change, oceans \| Leave a comment Mobile nuclear reactors for U.S. army -‘a COLOSSAL mistake’ – could bring about World War 3 World War 3 news: US military’s mobile nuclear reactor ‘a COLOSSAL mistake’ https://www.express.co.uk/news/world/1097564/world-war-3-mobile-battlefield-nuclear-reactor-us-military-nuclear-war US DEFENCE Department plans to build mobile nuclear reactors capable of powering their battlefield bases could trigger another world war, an eminent scientist has warned. By TOM FISH,Mar 9, 2019 The US military is fighting wars on at least 11 fronts, from the middle East to Africa. And all that cutting-edge equipment and military personnel can consume vast amounts of energy. But the US Defence Department’s announced intention of building an array of mobile nuclear reactors to power its way to victory has been slammed as incredibly dangerous – and could even trigger another nuclear war. The US army is keen to end its dependance on fossil fuel deliveries to forward operating bases, situated close to conflict zones. There would be a significant escalation if a nuclear plant was hit Dr Edwin Lyman But Dr Edwin Lyman, the senior global security scientist with the Union of Concerned Scientists, believes swapping to nuclear power is “simply trading one problem for another.” Speaking exclusively to Express.co.uk, Dr Lyman said: “The military generally use diesel fuel that has to be trucked in, creating supply vulnerabilities. “So they would love to have a constant supply of electricity which does not require these frequent shipments. “And they think nuclear power can provide that. “But nuclear reactors also require fuel – admittedly not as regularly – but not only would fresh fuel have to be delivered, but after its use it is highly radioactive spent fuel and there is no discussion over what would happen to that.” The Defence Department has requested tenders for nuclear reactors capable of producing between one and 10 megawatts of electricity, weigh less than 40 tonnes, and can be transported by ship, truck or C-17 aircraft. And it would have a so-called “inherently safe design”, ensuring a meltdown is physically impossible in various complete failure scenarios. However, Dr Lyman, a scientist with several decades in the field, believes it is naive to expect a such nuclear reactor to be safe in the middle of a war zone. He said: “It is foolish for the US Department of Defence to assume there are reactors that cannot meltdown and devastate their bases with radioactivity. “And if that is what they are looking for, it is a fools errand.” The nuclear scientist believes these nuclear reactors would be a target for terrorists, and a direct strike could disperse that hazardous radioactive enriched uranium that could damage the safety systems preventing the reactor from melting down. Dr Lyman said: “I expect in a worst-case scenario you would have an area of many tens of kilometres that could be contaminated to the extent where the land would be unusable without being decontaminated. “And anyone at the military base at that time would be exposed to potentially lethal doses of radiation. “So at best it would be a costly mess and at worse it could imperil the mission and the military personnel, and contaminate the area of the base which would affect the inhabitants of the host country.“ The nuclear scientist believes the US military response to such a devastating nuclear attack on its armed forces could trigger a like-foxlike reaction. “If you bomb a fossil fuel installation it would not be pretty, but there would be a significant escalation if a nuclear plant was hit. “And so the military would have to respond in kind or with a more devastating response and it could escalate.” He said: “There could be a number of disadvantages, both to military forces and also to the countries where the reactors would be located. “The US military could end up leaving a radioactive mess for other countries to deal with. There is precedent for this, when the US military dropped nuclear weapons off the coast of Spain and in Greenland. “The US left a radioactive legacy in both countries for decades. “So there are a lot of factors to consider, and I fear the military has an unrealistic view as to how successful this project is likely to be.” March 10, 2019 Posted by Christina MacPherson \| Small Modular Nuclear Reactors, USA \| Leave a comment Europe’s oldest nuclear reactors, with cracks in their barrels, Hunterston B – should not be restarted Edinburgh Live 8th March 2019 The two reactors at Hunterston B nuclear power plant near Ardrossan are 43 years old – the oldest in Europe. They’re already well beyond their operating lifetimes, which have twice been extended by EDF Energy, and they’re scheduled to close down for good in 2023. However, there’s a serious safety fault in the reactors. The fault is known as keyway root-cracking: where the graphite moderator cores in the reactors develop cracks leading to instabilities that could lead to a major nuclear accident: which would lead to a large swathe of Scotland’s central belt having to be evacuated. The reactors have been closed since October 2018 as a result, but owners EDF Energy are currently making a case for turning them back on, with help from trade union GMB. Although the probability of a meltdown is still low, the consequences could be incredibly severe. In such an event, both Glasgow and Edinburgh would need to be entirely evacuated due to radioactive contamination. According to Dr Ian Fairlie, an independent consultant on radioactivity in the environment, and Dr David Toke, Reader in Energy Policy at the University of Aberdeen, the two reactors definitely should not be restarted. Speaking about the cracks in the barrels, they say: “This is a serious matter because if an untoward incident were to occur – for example an earth tremor, gas excursion, steam surge, sudden outage, or sudden depressurisation, the barrels could become dislodged and/or misaligned. “These events could in turn lead to large emissions of radioactive gases. Further, if hot spots were to occur and if nuclear fuel were to react with the graphite moderator they could lead to explosions inside the reactor core. “In the very worst case the hot graphite core could become exposed to air and ignite leading to radioactive contamination of large areas of central Scotland, including the metropolitan areas of Glasgow and Edinburgh.” https://www.edinburghlive.co.uk/news/edinburgh-news/cracks-found-nuclear-reactor-could-15944122 March 10, 2019 Posted by Christina MacPherson \| safety, UK \| Leave a comment A billion dollar bailout for Three Mile Island Nuclear Station? Bailout bill proposed for Three Mile Island nuclear plant, 21 News, by Jessie McDonough, March 9th 2019 MIDDLETOWN, PA — A 981-million dollar bailout will be proposed next week to keep Three Mile Island Nuclear Plant afloat. Republican representatives want to amend Pennsylvania’s Alternative Energy Portfolio MIDDLETOWN, PA — A 981-million dollar bailout will be proposed next week to keep Three Mile Island Nuclear Plant afloat. Republican representatives want to amend Pennsylvania’s Alternative Energy Portfolio Standard by adding nuclear energy to the plan. Energy providers will have to buy a certain percentage of nuclear which would lead high utility bills for you the consumer. The proposal would bail out two nuclear energy plants. One of those is Exelon’s Three Mile Island. Not everyone is on board with the proposal and its’ hefty price tag. “We are talking almost a billion dollar nuclear bailout and basically it is a tax on consumers. It is going to force energy prices to be higher”, said Commonwealth of Pennsylvania CEO Nathan Benefield. Some residents in Middletown where the plant is located are also worried about increases in their electric bill……. https://local21news.com/news/local/bailout-bill-proposed-for-three-mile-island-nuclear-plant March 10, 2019 Posted by Christina MacPherson \| business and costs, politics, USA \| Leave a comment Bay of Biscay graveyard of nuclear-armed Russian submarine CTY Pisces – Photos of a Japanese midget submarine that was sunk off Pearl Harbor on the day of the attack. There’s a hole at the base of the conning tower where an artillery shell penetrated the hull, sinking the sub and killing the crew. Photos courtesy of Terry Kerby, Hawaii Undersea Research Laboratory. August 2003. 15,000 Feet Below the Waves Lurks Trouble: This Dead Russian Submarine Is Nuclear Armed “Unfortunately, the loss of power onboard and the difficult weather conditions were too much for the crew to overcome. On April 12, K-8 sank with some forty crew members aboard, coming to rest at a rough depth of 15,000 feet. The depth made any effort at recovering the submarine, and the nuclear torpedoes, impractical.” National Interest, by Robert Farley, 10 Mar 19 n April 8, K-8 suffered two fires, resulting in a shutdown of both nuclear reactors. The boat surfaced, and Captain Vsevolod Borisovich Bessonov ordered the crew to abandon ship. Eight crew members, trapped in compartments that were either flooded or burned out, died in the initial incident. Fortunately, a Soviet repair vessel arrived, and took K-8 under tow. However, bad weather made the recover operation a difficult prospect. Much of K-8’s crew reboarded the submarine, and for three days fought a life-and-death struggle to save the boat. Although details remain scarce, there apparently was no opportunity to safely remove the four nuclear torpedoes from K-8, and transfer them to the repair ship. The Bay of Biscay is one of the world’s great submarine graveyards. In late World War II, British and American aircraft sank nearly seventy German U-boats in the Bay, which joined a handful of Allied and German subs sunk in the region during World War I. On April 12, 1970, a Soviet submarine found the same resting place. Unlike the others, however, K-8 was propelled by two nuclear reactors, and carried four torpedoes tipped by nuclear warheads……… https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/15000-feet-below-waves-lurks-trouble-dead-russian-submarine-nuclear-armed-46652 March 10, 2019 Posted by Christina MacPherson \| France, wastes, weapons and war \| Leave a comment	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4261
__label__wiki	0.602276	0.602276	The Story Behind the Newest & Grandest Ocean Drive Hotel By Dirk DeSouza \| April 24, 2019 \| Lifestyle As the sprawling Celino South Beach on electric Ocean Drive rises as the promenade's first-ever luxury resort, the reborn street of dreams basks in nearly a century of art deco splendor. The Bar at Dalia at the Celino South Beach features interiors by Navigate Design. In 1926, as South Beach’s potential was just a hinting twitch, the world’s costliest-ever hurricane roared across the island, causing $172 billion in damage to sundry nascent beachfront buildings straddling hundreds of billions of unpaved grains of sand. Within three years, that storm of the century ushered in the Great Depression that gripped America’s purse strings until 1939. This bummer of a trajectory wasn’t what Carl Fisher, John Collins and the Lummus brothers had dreamed of since 1915. The development and banking scions had been downright mesmerized by Miami Beach’s natural beauty and untapped tourism potential, seeing well past its nutty history as a vast, failed coconut farm that once sold for 25 cents an acre. But while America was reeling, Miami Beach puffed its chest in the sunlight, sprouting a bumper crop of revolutionary buildings that marked the first wave of its perennial reputation for defying expectations. Throughout the 1930s and ’40s, architects were swimming in commissions to design fabulously chic resort-style hotels and mansions in the art deco and streamline moderne design motifs that captured worldwide imaginations immediately following the 1924 Paris Exposition des Arts Decoratifs et Industriels Modernes. And by the end of World War II, Miami Beach was clustered with 800 exceptional buildings that formed the largest concentration of art deco eye-candy architecture in the world, awash in pinks, lemons and blues. At last, Fisher’s, Collins’ and the Lummuses’ fairy tale of luxury, taste and fantasy had come true. A small miracle. A model in Lummus Park in 1956. Rising from this burst of creativity was the majestic Park Central Hotel, designed by art deco master Henry Hohauser in 1937. Elevated six glorious stories above the new Ocean Drive, surrounded by two- and three-story hotels, Hohauser’s design was among the most ambitious and soaring of its time. Eight decades later, the iconic Park Central name now cedes to its latest incarnation, Celino South Beach, the newest and grandest Ocean Drive hotel development the promenade has perhaps ever enjoyed. The resort, the passion project of Ricardo Tabet of Optimum Development USA, isn’t just comprised of the Park Central Hotel proper, it’s lassoed three additional buildings, to boot—The Imperial to the north, The Heathcote to the south and a modernist new-build white cube just beyond the Heathcote. It’s no stretch to suggest the newly composed contemporary compound commanding 280 feet of America’s Riviera may be the most ambitious hotel project in Ocean Drive’s history (Tabet refers to it as “The Celino District”). The yearslong, $110 million refurbishment of the three historic structures transpired under the watchful purview of the Barbara Capitman-founded Miami Design Preservation League, whose noble mission is to preserve architecture and design features of historical importance. Speaking to the importance of the Park Central’s legacy, Tabet adds, “Before starting the project, we hired a historian, because to plan the future, you have to understand the past.” The scene on South Beach circa 1955. The Celino exudes the vibrant glamour of cocktail dresses and tailored jackets, and brims with luxurious yet thoughtful details that echo the hotel’s elegant heyday as a social hub. In the main lobby, original terrazzo floors kiss against detailed steel elevator doors unchanged since the 1940s. The soaring lobby, bathed in arresting peaches, mints and turquoise blues, is flanked by breezy flamingo-printed sheers. Overhead, an enormous deep-blue ribbon of fabric forms a stunning art piece that runs past the indoor/outdoor horseshoe bar, past the intimate social salon, past the wood-burning open kitchen and into the glorious main dining room, three civilized terraces later. The scene resembles a Floridita vibe of midcentury modernism with a touch of Latin swagger, punctuated by lush greenery and dramatic chandeliers. In Tabet’s mind, he says, “We wanted to deliver the chic tropical lifestyle that people look for when they come to Miami.” The property is reborn with a rich amenity set for guests. Three lobby restaurants—modern Italian fare commanding the entire lobby of the new all-suite cube, seafood-centric Mediterranean dining anchoring the main building and casual pizza to the north—spill onto spacious outdoor terraces for people-watching. Beachgoers at Lummus Park in the ’60s. Poolside, an alfresco dining gazebo is joined by mature gnarls of shade trees, tranquil terraced landscapes connecting to Ocean Drive, and two whimsical bars focused on creative cocktails. Indoor cycling classes, yoga classes, dancing classes, hair and makeup services, and a gift boutique are also on the menu. The cherry on top is a semiprivate sixth-story sundeck and glass-bottom pool overlooking Lummus Park’s palm trees and spectacular ocean views; while dining inside, if one cranes upward beyond the five-story Mr. Brainwash mural, swimmers just may glide by. For overnight guests, the Celino houses 106 standard rooms, 14 luxe one-bedroom suites and 12 airy signature balcony and terrace suites outfitted with luxurious modern furnishings and soft color palettes. But what about the rest of Ocean Drive? The Celino helps the globally known strip complete a systematic recent renaissance of refreshing upgrades and investment. Over the past 15 years or so, over $1 billion has been spent, publicly and privately, to align Ocean Drive with global jet-set sensibilities. Though purists may disagree, Ocean Drive begins at South Pointe Park, one of the world’s most spectacular oceanfront green spaces, then dances northward with world-class newness and opulence—the towering Continuum complex, Nikki Beach, Prime 112, Prime Italian, One Ocean, Ocean House, Enrique Norten’s 321 Ocean, Rene Gonzalez’s Glass, The Local House/Sense Beach House, the refurbished Clevelander Hotel, the refurbished Tides Hotel, the refurbished Versace mansion, the refurbished Cardozo Hotel, the expanded Betsy Hotel, Il Villagio and Michael Graves’ 1500 Ocean Drive. The courtyard pool at The Betsy South Beach, another renovated architectural masterpiece on Ocean Drive. The Betsy hosts several arts and cultural events including the new poetry program Knight Writers presented in partnership with O, Miami. The award-winning Betsy, designed by Henry Hohauser and L. Murray Dixon between 1937 and 1941, recently doubled its room count and enlarged to include gallery and conservatory spaces, an alley restaurant, rooftop pool and gratis office space for a classical music nonprofit and a poetry nonprofit to stage over 60 free public performances a year. The hotel’s owner, Jonathan Plutzik, has long chosen to emphasize culture and community, which, along with the Celino, The Tides and Gloria Estefan’s gorgeous Cardozo, collectively help Ocean Drive not only reassume its luxurious mantle but remain a dynamic social mecca for years to come. At this very moment, over $500 million is being invested to improve and beautify hotels, cafes, boutiques, bars and restaurants from Fifth to 15th Street, while the City of Miami Beach improves Lummus Park with over $5 million in infrastructure to attract more special events like concerts, art shows and food festivals. Miami locals are falling in love again with America’s Riviera, rediscovering that a bike ride along Ocean Drive, followed by lunch at one of its breezy outdoor cafes is truly one of life’s great pleasures.	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4263
__label__cc	0.551162	0.448838	Surviving Legacy Code Jump Into the Deep End Before You Continue In This Course Ask Your Questions Here! Two Streams of Content (Really! Read this before watching the videos!) Before You Rush Into Changing Code... Creating a Safe Environment for Changing Code (43:19) Rescue the Code to Rescue the Environment (6:16) The Coding Techniques Cobbling Together Tests From What You Already Have (128:15) The Surprising Difficulty of Deleting a Directory (12:33) Figure Out What To Tease Apart With Subclass to Test (131:14) Why I Don't Consider Subclass to Test An Anti-Pattern Replace Inheritance with Delegation (133:24) Extract Towards Composed Method (103:04) Extract Pure Functions (128:08) Case Studies and Other Questions Just Use Return Values! Golden Master, When There Are Database Clients All Over The Place Surviving More Than Legacy Code Getting Started With Surviving More Than Legacy Code Managing the Risks of Rescuing Legacy Code Legacy Code Disappoints Authority and Responsibility For Design Decisions Refactoring Without Tests: A Philosophical Quandary More Content Is Coming... Emerging Implementations of an Emerging Interface: An Example SMELL and REFACTOR (2:11) Keep the Diffs Clean (2:01) The Production Code Tests the Tests (0:58) Put Related Code Close Together (1:15) What I Type Should Match What I Say (0:59) Anti-Patterns Aren't Just Bad Ideas (0:59) The Ebb and Flow of Subclass to Test (3:15) You Won't Know What You Want to Know Before You Need to Change Things (0:50) Never Assume Anything Will Work (2:25) I Write Tests Differently for Legacy Code (2:37) Irrelevant Details Matter More in Legacy Code (3:28) The "Obviously" Trap (1:53) Reverse-Engineering the Essence of a Test (1:33) Judging Safety Without Tests (2:34) When In Doubt, Document More Details (2:28) More Legacy Code, Less Confidence (1:40) One Way To Find A Buried Domain Concept (1:38) Why We Might Replace Inheritance (1:45) Deciding When To Run the Golden Master (2:44) Choosing the First Test to Refactor (2:03) I Usually Make Nested Classes Static (1:40) Too Much Success Can Make Me Nervous (0:57) The Force of Deprecation (1:58) Don't Panic When Collaborators Explode (2:35) The Power of Abstraction (1:59) Why I Let Myself Extract Methods Without Tests (2:36) A Meditative Approach to Legacy Code (0:47) To Fix Or Not To Fix (1:59) Side Effects Are Your Worst Enemy (3:09) Clearer Structures Help Me Infer Meaning (2:40) The Ebb and Flow of Extract Towards Composed Method (2:06) Extract Functions, Two Ways (2:15) Fundamental Risk Management in Legacy Code (1:55) Benevolent Manipulation (4:31) Extras and Fun Stuff Out Takes (6:17) I Write Tests Differently for Legacy Code	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4269
__label__cc	0.544109	0.455891	Document Item Vescovado di Murlo Upper Vescovado Vescovado 13 VT 13 (2016-07-01):3-10; Introduction (Document Item) Document Contents Evidence of ancient occupation in Vescovado di Murlo has been well established; tombs with materials dating from 6th to the 3 rd century BCE have been previously reported from the Tinoni area of the town. Furthermore, in the 1970s, during the construction of the SP 34 roadway, traces of ancient industrial activity were uncovered and excavated in a rescue operation in the Colombaio area. This revealed the architectural remains of two furnaces along with a fragment of a wall immediately south of the apertures of the larger of the two furnaces. Pottery recovered here suggests a date between the late-4 th to the early-3 rd century BCE. More recently it was at this site in 2006 that an exploratory excavation took place, led by the Poggio Civitate Excavation Project. The investigations explored the previously identified areas of 4 th and 3 rd century BCE industrial activity (see VT1 ) and uncovered traces of an earlier furnace, as well as traces of a possible domestic space whose pottery potentially dates from the 6 th century BCE and appears to be contemporaneous and comparable to fabrics recovered from the monumental complex on Poggio Civitate. Notably the 2006 investigations revealed another forno (see VT6 ) directly south of the structures uncovered in the 1970s. Moreover, an Attic red-figure sherd, dating to c. 500 BCE, along with some bucchero and buccheroid wares from the 6th century BCE were discovered in a lower stratum of VT4 . Alongside this a possible floor surface and retaining wall were uncovered in VT2 and VT3 , directly to the south of the original 1970s excavations. In 2015 further excavations took place 5 meters to the west of this site, in the south-western half of what was a tennis court constructed in the 1980s. This area is c. 5 meters higher than the areas previously investigated. From the information available it appears that the area where the tennis court was constructed was scrapped and a fill of stones, clay, sand, and other materials was used as the foundation for the court. Four trenches were excavated in 2015 ( VT 7 , 8 , 9 , 10 ). In VT7 a wall with multiple courses, running roughly east-west, and seemingly a continuum of the one to the east revealed in the 1970s operations. To the south of the wall a floor surface was revealed which had numerous upturned and largely intact vessels. Above this floor surface a large tile packing was uncovered also. In VT8 , c. 1.5m south of the east-west wall a large (c. 1m diameter) circle of stones in coursing were revealed. This feature has been initially interpreted as a column base. Finally, in VT10 , a rip-rap/gully feature was revealed which abutted the east-west wall to the north, and was lined with tile and other materials. This may have been a drainage feature. Initial interpretation has concluded this area was a courtyard covered with a roof as a \x91loggia' space. Moreover, numerous large fragments of storage vessels support this initial conclusion. Consequently, in summer 2016 the aim of excavations is to further explore farther to the west to find further evidence to support or challenge our hypothesis. As at least half the north-west area of the tennis court is available to explore, we will concentrate excavations there. The aims of excavations are: 1. To consolidate our understanding of the stratigraphy of this area of Vescovado di Murlo. This should clarify the dating of the structures previously discovered. 2. To clarify our understanding of the natural topography of this part of Vescovado. 3. To clarify the function(s) of the previously discovered structure(s), in particular the nature of the possibly courtyard. 4.To determine the extent of previously discovered structures. 5. To investigate the relationship between Vescovado di Murlo during the 7th and 6th centuries BCE, and the inhabitants of the monumental structures on Poggio Civitate. 6. To better understand ancient activity in Vescovado di Murlo following the destruction and abandonment of the settlement on Poggio Civitate. Document Type Trench Book Entry Trench Book Entry Date 2016-07-01 Entry Year 2016 Start Page 3 End Page 10 Title Introduction Linked Documents (3) Linked Document VT 13 VT 13 (2016-06-30):1-2; Table of Contents VT 13 (2016-07-02):11-15; Methodology Linked Persons (1) Linked Persons / Organizations Principal Author / Analyst Nora K. Donoghue Roman Imperial (31 CE - 399 CE) Nora K. Donoghue. "VT 13 (2016-07-01):3-10; Introduction from Italy/Vescovado di Murlo/Upper Vescovado/Vescovado 13/2016, ID:723". (2017) In Murlo. Anthony Tuck (Ed.) . Released: 2017-10-04. Open Context. <http://opencontext.org/documents/dd0f7001-f851-4145-8a3f-cc45da8260da>	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4271
__label__cc	0.61247	0.38753	How do Wikipedia licenses, CC-BY-SA and GFDL differ? Wikipedia licenses most of their text and images under two licenses, CC-BY-SA and GFDL. We can choose either of the licenses while using the work. I know both of them are copyleft licenses and similar in some ways but fail to understand how they differ? For example, if I use a CC-BY-SA licensed image for my website I have credit the author (with link) and leave a link to the license text. How would it work if I chose GFDL? licensing copyleft cc-by-sa gfdl nshunznshunz The GFDL was written with books or multi-page documents in mind. It contains many provisions that are cumbersome for non-written works or short written works. It is historically relevant because it is a non-software copyleft license that predates the Creative Commons Share Alice license. In nearly all circumstances you will want to choose the CC-BY-SA license over the GFDL: the license is more widely understood, compliance is easier, and (in CC 4.0) it accounts for newer developments like database rights. I could only see the GFDL being preferable if that would allow a user to lawyer around some details of the CC licenses, or if you're actually dealing with a book. A big difference between CC and GFDL is that GFDL requires all copies to accompanied by a license statement and the full terms of the license. That's practically impossible for images. In contrast, CC allows a link to the full text, an in many cases just the note “CC-BY-SA 3.0” would be sufficient. The GFDL also allows some sections of the document to be marked as invariant, they must be produced verbatim in derived works. Note that Wikipedia's licensing is a bit more complex. They do use GFDL/CC-BY-SA dual licensing for most text contributions, but should be treated as purely CC-BY-SA licensed by downstream users. Individual pages may contain non-GFDL content. Media files have their own licenses that are noted on the media file's page. Note that the GFDL 1.3 contains an explicit compatibility clause that allowed Wikipedia to relicense their GFDL content to CC-BY-SA in 2009 (but it was scoped to prevent further relicensing). Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged licensing copyleft cc-by-sa gfdl or ask your own question. Are Copyleft and Share-Alike synonyms? GFDL and CC BY-SA compatibility and Use Does a host application's license apply to plug-ins written for it? Does a CC BY-SA 4.0 specification lose any AGPL3+ benefits? What license for code resembles CC BY-SA most? JPEG comment to convey Copyleft Multi-Licenced Copyright Notice How does re-licensing without the approval of authors work (eg, wikimedia case)? Do programmers use licenses properly? Can an author of a GFDL content allow a publisher to publish a propietary derivative? Will adding a BY-SA image to a blog post make the entire post BY-SA?	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4272
__label__wiki	0.700339	0.700339	Acupuncture in combination with drug therapy reliefs depression best Researchers conclude that acupuncture increases the total effective rate of the drug paroxetine for the relief of mild to moderate depression. Researchers from the Affiliated Dongfang Hospital of Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine combined acupuncture with standard drug therapy. The researchers conclude that the addition of acupuncture to a paroxetine treatment regimen increases the effective rate of paroxetine for depression relief while mitigating its adverse effects. [1] Paroxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant medication used for treating depression and anxiety disorders that is often known by the following brand names: Paxil, Pexeva, Brisdelle. In research conducted by Ma et al., electroacupuncture plus drug therapy produced an 89.28% total effective rate. Using manual acupuncture plus drug therapy produced a 92.00% total effective rate. Drug monotherapy using paroxetine produced an 85.71% total effective rate. The results were measured with Measure Your Medical Outcome Profile (MYMOP) and 17-item Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAMD-17) instruments at the completion of all medical treatments. MYMOP is a patient generated questionnaire for measuring treatment outcomes, including problem specific improvements as well as general wellbeing changes. The HAMD-17 is a widely used rating instrument used to assess the severity of depression. Ma et al. used the following study design. A total of 88 patients with mild to moderate depression were treated and evaluated in this study. All participants were patients diagnosed with depression. They were randomly divided into an electroacupuncture plus drug group, a manual acupuncture plus drug group, and a monotherapy drug group with 28, 25, and 35 patients in each group respectively. All group patients received identical drug therapy (paroxetine). On the first and second day, patients received 10 mg of paroxetine tablets, once per day, after breakfast. From the third day to the end of the treatment regimen, the dose was increased to 20 mg, once per day, after breakfast. The drug treatment lasted for 6 weeks. The statistical breakdown prior to the beginning of the study for each randomized group was as follows. The electroacupuncture plus drug group was comprised of 18 males and 10 females. The average age in the electroacupuncture plus drug group was 45.52 (±13.64) years. The average course of disease was 3.50 (±2.69) months. The average HAMD-17 scores were 25.57 (±4.83). The manual acupuncture plus drug group was comprised of 17 males and 8 females. The average age in the manual acupuncture plus drug group was 47.68 (±12.82) years. The average course of disease was 3.44 (±2.81) months. The average HAMD-17 scores were 27.40 (±4.39). The drug control group was comprised of 20 males and 15 females. The average age in the drug control group was 38.30 (±14.71) years. The average course of disease was 3.89 (±3.56) months. The average HAMD-17 scores were 26.29 (±6.01). There were no significant statistical differences in terms of age, gender, course of disease, and HAMD-17 scores relevant to patient outcome measures. Acupuncture Procedure Patients in two treatment groups received acupuncture therapy, every two days, three times a week, for a total of 6 weeks (one treatment course). The primary acupoints used for treatment included the following: GV20 (Baihui) EX-HN-3 (Yintang) GV16 (Fengfu) GB20 (Fengchi, bilateral needle insertion) GV14 (Dazhui) PC6 (Neiguan, bilateral needle insertion) SP6 (Sanyinjiao, bilateral needle insertion) Secondary acupuncture points were added based on diagnostic considerations. For patients with liver qi stagnation, the following acupoints were added: LV3 (Taichong) LI4 (Hegu) For patients with qi depression transforming into fire, the following acupoints were added: LV2 (Xingjian) GB43 (Xiaxi) For patients with anxiety and depression damaging the spirit, the following acupoints were added: EX-HN-22 (Anmian) HE7 (Shenmen) For patients with heart and spleen deficiency, the following acupoint was added: ST36 (Zusanli) For patients with yin deficiency with fire, the following acupoints were added: KI3 (Taixi) KI6 (Zhaohai) Acupuncture treatment commenced with patients in a supine position. A 0.30 mm × 40 mm disposable acupuncture needle was inserted perpendicularly into each acupoint to a standard depth. For all acupoints, a deqi sensation was obtained and the needles were stimulated with manual manipulation techniques for 5 – 10 seconds during the 30 minute needle retention times. Electroacupuncture involved the application of 2/15 Hz disperse-dense wave stimulation to Baihui, Yintang, and bilateral Fengchi. The intensity level was set to patient tolerance levels or until muscle contractions were observable. Once the electric stimulation began, the needles were retained for 30 minutes. Independent Research In a similar finding, Liu et al. from the psychiatry department of Hangzhou Seventh People Hospital conclude that “acupuncture enhances the clinical efficacy of SSRI antidepressants for the treatment of depression and reduces adverse drug reactions.” [2] Two groups were compared in the controlled study. Patients of both groups were given various SSRIs (e.g., fluoxetine, paroxetine) according to the severity of the disease. One group also received acupuncture with 0.30 mm × 40 mm acupuncture needles. The needle retention time was 30 minutes per acupuncture session. Acupuncture therapy was administered every two days, for a total of 4 weeks. The primary acupoints used in the study were the following: GV24 (Shenting) GB20 (Fengchi, bilateral needling) EX-HN-1 (Sishencong) Additional secondary acupoints were added based on diagnostic presentations: Liver depression transforming into fire: LV2 (Xingjian), LV3 (Taichong) Heart and spleen deficiency: BL15 (Xinshu), ST36 (Zusanli) Liver and kidney yin deficiency: KI3 (Taixi), BL18 (Ganshu) Heart and gallbladder qi deficiency: BL19 (Danshu), HE7 (Shenmen) Spleen and kidney yang deficiency: BL20 (Pishu), CV4 (Guanyuan) Phlegm qi binding depression: ST40 (fenglong), GB34 (Yanglingquan) Pain: Ashi points All patients were assessed with the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD), Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and Asberg Side-Effects Rating Scale (ASERS) before treatment and 1, 2, and 4 weeks after completion of treatment. VAS was used to assess pain. ASERS was used to measure side effects. HAMD scores and VAS scores at 1, 2, and 4 weeks after treatment in the acupuncture plus drug group were significantly lower than those in the drug only group (P<0.01), indicating that acupuncture plus drug therapy was superior to using only drugs. ASERS scores in the 1, 2, and 4 weeks after treatment in the acupuncture plus drug treatment group were markedly lower than those in the drug group (P<0.01), indicating that acupuncture plus drug therapy produces less adverse drug reactions than drug monotherapy. Modern research indicates that combining acupuncture with SSRI antidepressants into an integrated treatment protocol is more effective than SSRI antidepressants as a monotherapy. Important features of the integrated protocol is that it produces a high total effective rate while lowering the adverse effect rate associated with drug therapy. Patients interested in learning more about acupuncture as a treatment option are encouraged to contact local licensed acupuncturists to learn more. Ma XH, Yang XY, Xu K, Pan L, Yang XJ, Wang SH, Tu Y. A Clinical Observation on Acupuncture Combined with Western Medicine for 88 cases of Mild to Moderate Depression [J]. Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 2014, 55(6):493-496. Liu Y, Zhang YH, Jin M, Liu WJ. Study on Clinical Effect Enhancement of Acupuncture for Depression with Chronic Pain Treated with SSRI antidepressants [J]. Chinese Acupuncture and Moxibustion, 2013, 33(8):689-691. Quelle (Juli 2018): http://www.healthcmi.com Acupuncture and Herbs Eliminate Meniere’s Disease Acupuncture Benefits Stroke Patients	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4276
__label__cc	0.658112	0.341888	Tag Archives: pintails Wetland Restoration Project Starts to Sing! The wetland restoration project at Huntley Meadows Park is nearly complete. After 22 years of planning, three environmental engineering firms, numerous design drafts, and more than 60 public meetings, it’s hard to believe that the Huntley Meadows Wetland Restoration Project is just days from completion. As Fairfax County Park Authority staff struggle with the challenges of directing contractors, managing finances, unpredictable weather and inevitable construction delays, the park’s wildlife have decided to ignore all these silly human issues and literally dive into the project. First, a little context Raising and then managing the wetland’s water levels in order to maintain a hemi-marsh full of biodiversity is the project’s primary goal. The wetland has been slowly, steadily losing depth for several decades because of silt and cattail spread. It lost almost a foot of depth since the 1980s. That’s one-third of its water, since it was never more than about three feet deep. The restoration design has three main aspects — creating an earthen dam with a vinyl center to regain that lost foot of depth, installing pipes to create seasonally fluctuating water levels (essential for maintaining a healthy hemi-marsh), and excavating several deeper pools to create refuge for wetland wildlife during summer droughts and winter freezes. As an added plus, the project doubles the wetland’s boundaries, seasonally flooding surrounding forest to create additional swampland and vernal pools. Combined, those events restore a paradise for wildlife and wildlife watchers. At least that was the idea. But would it work? Would 22 years of planning pay off? Would park wildlife agree with and adopt the design, or would we end up with a beautiful but empty wetland as animals high-tailed it for other parks not full of excavating bulldozers, 20-person construction crews and enough silt-fence to surround a small country? I’ve been telling people that three years was a good amount of time to wait until we saw real results. It turned out all the wetland needed was seven days of rain. Seven days, not three years Remember back in mid-October when it rained non-stop for a week? Well, the construction was far from complete, but the dam and pipes were finished. So we were able to raise the water level back to its 1986 levels plus an additional 10 inches. Wetland boundaries expanded, areas were submerged that had been dry for 30 years, and then we waited, watched, and listened. As park staff struggled with submerged trails and a small section of boardwalk that flirted with the idea of floating away, wildlife chose to ignore these mundane issues and had a ball. Huntley’s resource manager, Dave Lawlor, and I were walking the trails to determine which sections to raise when we heard what sounded like the roar of a low plane moving towards us over the flooded wetland. The roar got louder, Dave and I had to shout to hear ourselves, but when we looked around — no plane in sight. Then we realized the deafening sound moving like a wave across the wetland was the largest chorus of southern leopard frogs we’d ever heard. One male frog starts to croak, cackle and gargle, his neighbor feels competitive and tries to outdo him, his neighbor does the same, and in seconds the sound wave rolls across 40 acres of wetland, echoing into the surrounding forest. The extreme volume was due to the increased wetland footprint. This was the largest the wetland had been in over 30 years, creating an enormous stage for one of Northern Virginia’s least common frogs and one of the species we had hoped to help with this project. “Build it and they will come” and sing. Southern leopard frogs, one of the least common frog species in Northern Virginia, are already benefitting from the expanded wetland. The return of the birds Wonderfully, and thankfully for an anxiously waiting park manager, southern leopard frogs were not the only wildlife that adopted and utilized the restored wetland. One morning as I joined Charles Smith, FCPA’s lead naturalist and resource protection manager, to inspect the project, we heard a warbled, bouncy bird call coming from the edge of a recently excavated habitat pool. “Purple finch? Goldfinch? No, I think it’s a winter wren!” A tiny, mouse-like bird that flits down from New England to spend its winters hiding in the moist thickets of the mid-Atlantic had its head thrown back and was singing its heart out from a wildlife brush shelter constructed only days before. Unfortunately, a few hundred trees had to come down in order to create the new dam, pipes and pools. Our goal was to use all of those trees on-site as habitat enhancements (brush shelters, sunning logs for turtles, underwater breeding habitat for crayfish, etc.), and winter wrens were one of the species we were hoping to attract. That same morning we heard several belted kingfishers throwing their rattling cries across the wetland, diving for fishy snacks in the newly excavated pools, and over the last few weeks numerous ducks have appeared to feed, court and mate in the expanded wetland. Northern shovelers, northern pintails, green-winged teal, and American black ducks are just a few of the winter waterfowl species now in the wetland, visiting from their summer homes in Canada and our upper Midwest. None of the species I’ve mentioned so far, from frogs to ducks, are new to Huntley, but their numbers appear to have increased this fall/winter because of the larger wetland and historic water depth. Our goal was never to attract new species, but rather to return the marshland wildlife back to their 1980s numbers, and to convince rails, bitterns and grebes to nest here again as they did several decades ago. Will king rails and pied-billed grebes build nests and give birth again to new generations next spring and summer? We’ll see or, more accurately, we’ll listen. Mike Rollband, president and owner of Wetland Studies and Solutions Inc., discusses the wetland restoration project. Author Kevin Munroe is the site manager at Huntley Meadows Park. See more photos of the project on Flickr. This entry was posted in Uncategorized and tagged Alexandria, Birds, Ducks, Environment, Fairfax County, Hemi-Marsh, Huntley Meadows Park, marsh, nature, northern shoveler, outdoors, pintails, southern leopard frogs, Stewardship, waterfowl, wetland restoration, winter wren on December 11, 2013 by Fairfax County Park Authority. Local resident Kathrin Swoboda's photo of a Blackbird blowing "smoke rings" at own Huntley Meadows Park has been na… twitter.com/i/web/status/1… 2 hours ago	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4277
__label__wiki	0.627979	0.627979	July 3, 2010 · 14:12 Tides Honor the Negro Leagues but Lose to Charlotte 2-1 in Pitcher’s Duel Sam Allen, Thomas Burt and Levi “Champie” Drew unveil the New Negro League Commemorative Stamp It was another beautiful night for a ball game at the Church of Baseball Harbor Park Parish as 8483 fans gathered to see th3e Charlotte Knights take on the Norfolk Tides. It was a special night as the Tides honored the Negro Leagues with the unveiling of the new US Postal Service Commemorative Negro League stamp set and with each team wearing replica Negro League uniforms representing the great teams that played in the historic leagues which did so much to help the cause of racial equality in the United States. On hand were Hampton Roads natives and former Negro League players including the great Sam Allen as well as Thomas Burt, Levi “Champie” Drew and Chester Moody. The stamp set which is two 44 cent stamps that when together honor the league as well as Andrew “Rube Foster the founder of the Negro National League and black baseball’s most influential personality who organized the first professional league in Negro Baseball. In 1920 Foster the owner of the Chicago American Giants decided that the time had arrived for a truly organized and stable Negro league. With Foster at the helm the Negro National League was born in Kansas City in 1920. The league fielded eight teams many of which remain etched in the minds of modern baseball fans and which pioneered professional baseball and which provided the set for future hall of famers and Negro league greats to achieve national prominence and for some to break the racial barriers of Major League Baseball. The teams, the Chicago American Giants, Chicago Giants, Cuban Stars, Dayton Marcos, Detroit Stars, Indianapolis ABCs, Kansas City Monarchs and St. Louis Giants survived the end of the first Negro National League in 1931 and remain part of the American baseball scene. Zack Clark pitched well but took the loss The game as I said was a pitcher’s duel and hitting on both sides took second place to solid pitching by the starters and the relievers. The Knights scored their two runs in the first inning on a walk, two singles and a sacrifice fly. The Tides had chances to score during the game. They left Matt Angle at third base with no outs in the bottom of the first and Paco Figueroa died at home when trying to score on a one out ground ball by Robert Andino and Andino was left stranded second and Jeff Salazar at first when Michael Aubrey flied out. In the 9th both Nolan Reimold and Rhyne Hughes hit deep fly balls that died at the warning track both of which appeared would go out of the park before the wind knocked them down. In the 7th inning the Tides got their one run when Rhyne Hughes doubled and was driven home by a Blake Davis single. Paco Figueroa is tagged out at home in the 8th inning Charlotte starter Jeff Marquez (7-4 4.02 ERA) went 7 innings allowing 4 hits and 1 run striking out 4 and waling 1 in picking up the win while Greg Aquino picked up his 9th save despite giving the Knights a scare with the two deep fly balls in the 9th. Tides starter Zack Clark (0-3 3.06 ERA) picked up the loss but had an impressive performance as did relievers Mike Hinckley, Cla Meredith and Jim Miller. Miller was particularly impressive in the 9th sending the Knights down in order striking out two. The Knights had 2 runs on 6 hits and committed two errors leaving 7 men on base. The Tides 1 run on 5 hits with no errors stranding six runners. Tonight the teams wrap up this part of their series before taking it back to Charlotte with Matt Zeleski (5-5 3.46 ERA) of the Knights going up against Tim Bascom (2-2 4.37 ERA) a game that will feature post-game fireworks in honor of the founding of the United States. Padre Steve Filed under Baseball, norfolk tides Tagged as andrew "rube" foster, blake davis, charlotte knights, chester moody, chicago american giants, chicago giants, church of baseball, cla meredith, cuban stars, dayton marcos, detroit stars, harbor park, indianapolis ABCs, jeff marquez, jeff salazar, jim miller, kansas city monarchs, levi "champie" drew, matt angle, matt zeleski, michael aubrey, mike hinckley, negro league commemorative stamp set, negro leagues, negro national league, nolan Reimold, norfolk tides, paco figueroa, rhyne hughes, robert andino, sam allen, st louis giants, thomas burt, tim bascom, zack clark	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4283
__label__cc	0.603239	0.396761	Posted by Paul Kiser in Aging, Conservatives, Discrimination, Ethics, Gender Issues, Generational, Government, Honor, Politicians, Politics, racism, Respect, United States, US History, Voting, Women 2020, career politician, Joe Biden, Politics, President, United States Joe Biden disqualifies himself to be President An Open Letter to Joe Biden Dear Joe Biden, What the hell are you thinking? Seriously, you think you can begin a campaign to be President of the United States by quoting a document that was written angry white men who didn’t believe that slaves or women were equal, and no one is going to notice? Don’t get me wrong, the Declaration of Independence is an important document in our country’s history, but if you’re trying to talk about equality you need to talk about the journey our country took to recognize that all are equal, not just what a group of wealthy white men wrote down about equality for wealthy white men. You also apparently believe that you can make one call to an African American woman and apologize for your inappropriate behavior and that qualifies you to be President. When our son doesn’t do his homework, then later apologizes for not doing his homework, he still doesn’t get to do a sleepover. If you were truly attempting to atone for your behavior you would have called Anita Hill, apologized, then told her that your behavior against her and other women is why you shouldn’t be President. That is what sincerity is about. That is atonement. You shouldn’t have run Joe. This was a mistake before you made your announcement and your announcement itself proves why you should be President. I don’t dislike you. You have worked hard in your life to try and correct the mistakes you have made, but you still don’t understand why old white men are not the people who should lead our country out of this mess created by old white men. Clinton Emails: Secrets To Be Exposed Posted by Paul Kiser in Aging, Ethics, Generational, Government, History, Politics, Privacy, Public Relations, US History, Women Benghazi, Bernie Sanders, controversy, Donald Trump, Election 2016, emails, FBI, Girl Scouts of America, Hillary Clinton, Politics, Presidential candidates, Presidential election, Russia, Secretary of State, Senator, Senator Bernie Sanders, Vladimir Putin Donald Trump and Bernie Sanders campaigns are rejoicing at the revelations about to be exposed from secret Hillary Clinton emails on a private server, while she was Secretary of State. Among the revelations are: In 2009, Clinton attempted to humiliate, then Prime Minister Vladimir Putin, by arranging to have him photographed in the nude, riding a horse. In 2012, Clinton outlined a plan to become President, and use the Girl Scouts of America to send their members door-to-door under the ruse of selling cookies to determine which homes had guns, followed by night raids by Navy Seals to collect the guns. In 2010, Clinton admitted in an email, that while she was Senator from New York, she conspired to run for President as a ruse to become Secretary of State, where she intended to set up a private email account, rather than using a government email account. Fox News broke the story today and declared that this scandal will finally end the Clinton campaign to become President of the United States. Speaker of the House, Paul Ryan, reacted to the news by saying, “Huh, what?” followed by a scathing, “Okay, great.” Mitch McConnell said, “Finally, we not only have the smoking gun on Clinton, we have the powder, the shot, the wading, and that tamper thing that you use to push it all the stuff down the barrel. She not going to be President because she’s going to jail!” Vladimir Putin tests drives new Russian air conditioned military personnel carrier According to sources in the FBI familiar with the emails, the attempt to humiliate Putin was almost thwarted when he refused to take off the pants; however, the photographer decided that an image of Putin’s sagging breasts and small hands were adequate to accomplish the goal. Apparently, the conspiracy to collect guns from United States citizens was later eliminated when it was determined that gun owners would likely shoot a Girl Scout under the assumption she was a burglar. In a campaign speech today, Trump said, “There’s going to be a lot more coming out on Clinton’s emails. I know, because, really, I’m God, no, really, I am, and I’m not happy with her.” Sanders responded to questions from reporters about the rumors of the secret emails by saying, “This campaign is about momentum, and the superdelegates….I’m sorry, what was the question?” Populism is a Symptom of the Failure of People, Not Government Posted by Paul Kiser in Communication, Education, Generational, Government, Government Regulation, History, Honor, Politics, Religion, Respect, Social Media Relations, Taxes, Traditional Media, US History 2016, Bernie Sanders, Conservatives, Democrats, Donald Trump, Elections, James Madison, Mara Lisasson, Politics, populism, populist, Republicans Mara Liasson, NPR Political Correspondent/Fox News Contributor Mara Liasson, political correspondent for National Public Radio (NPR,) reported on the Morning Edition segment that populism is a major force in this year’s Presidential campaigns, and she wanted to find out what effect it might have after the election. In her report she featured people who feel ‘left behind.’ Her first interview was with a proud ‘Hillbilly.’ Her next interview was with Kathy Kramer, a political science professor from the University of Wisconsin. Liasson described Professor Kramer as one who has spent the last eleven years talking to Wisconsin people who “felt ignored, or dismissed by politicians, the media, the government, or big business.” Liasson suggested through her story and her featured interviewees, that the Populism movement is not just a 2016 event, and is likely to have an impact in future elections. Populism is not new to organized societies, and according to James Madison, is not an action that leads to a better society. In the Federalist No. 10 paper, Madison refers to populists movements as people, Author, Political theorist, Constitutionalist, President of the United States of America …who are united and actuated by some common impulse of passion, or of interest, adversed to the rights of other citizens, or to the permanent and aggregate interests of the community. Donald Trump and Bernie Sanders have tapped into the passions of many people, and at least in the case of Trump, exploited people who seek to impose their beliefs and interests on those who disagree with them. Madison continues his description of populist-type movements later in the same paper, A zeal for different opinions concerning religion, concerning government, and many other points, as well of speculation as of practices…have, in turn, divided mankind into parties, inflamed them with mutual animosity, and rendered them much more disposed to vex and oppress each other than to co-operate for their common good. Missed in Liasson’s report is that the root cause of their dissatisfaction of government and politicians, the feeling of being left behind, is a direct result of the types of leaders that voters have been electing since Ronald Reagan in 1979. The populists anger, among conservatives, seem to be a combination of electing the wrong people, inciting a belief that the caucasian male is superior, and a desire to inflict personal religious beliefs as public law. Add to the their misplaced emotions, a failure to use reason to examine the issues effectively, and we have what James Madison described 228 years ago. We can’t fix government or politicians until we fix the people. Madison knew that, but what Madison may not have known was that the twenty-first century news media would accept populist movements as valid political thought, when it is simply public masturbation of the uneducated, immature, and egocentric mind. 5 Reasons I No Longer Feel The Bern Posted by Paul Kiser in Aging, Branding, Communication, Education, Ethics, Generational, Government, Government Regulation, Politics, Pride, Public Image, Taxes, US History, Women 2016, Bernie Sanders, Conservatives, Democrats, Donald, GOP, Hillary Clinton, Howard Dean, liberals, Politics, President, Republicans Nevada was an early caucus state. Caucus is Latin for a divisive meeting of unified people and, from the word, ‘caca,’ meaning excrement. Hillary Clinton: In her 3rd decade of fighting for a government by the people Prior to the Nevada caucus I was unsure who I was supporting. I always have liked Hillary Clinton, but I have been a little frustrated with the moderate viewpoint that we can all work together, when extremist conservatives have proven that we really can’t. I considered myself leaning towards Bernie Sanders until the February 11th Democratic debate, and then I began to realize that Bernie is not the man to lead this country. 1. Bernie: The One-Song Musical In the February 11th Democratic debate I realized that Bernie Sanders has latched on to a handful of speaking points and beats them to death at every rally. I don’t really care what Hillary Clinton said in her speeches to any big bank, but I do appreciate she has their attention. Bernie’s harping on a few minor meaningless issues is exactly what conservatives have been doing for decades and I’m sick of it. We don’t need a leader to spend four years of blaming other people for small faults when we have the rise of a second Confederacy in our country that seeks to destroy everything we stand for in the United States. 2. Bernie Supporters: All Flash, No Dignity, No Honor, No Substance I live next to the University of Nevada, so we have a lot of college students in our precinct. Needless to say our precinct went almost entirely for Bernie Sanders. They were all excited about themselves and how they were the voice of change. They were also rude and undignified in their manner of supporting their candidate. Both the elected President and Secretary of the caucus were Bernie supporters and wearing Bernie tee shirts and buttons. At one point, the Secretary, who did nothing during the meeting, walked in front of the fifteen Clinton supporters and announced to the room, “I’m not voting for Hillary. I’d never do that.” But the real issue for me was when an envelope was passed around to help the Democratic Party. I went to at least thirty people before me, and none of them put any money in it. Not even a quarter. I put twenty dollars in it, and I wouldn’t be surprised if it came back with only that amount. None of the Sanders supporters were committed to helping the Democratic party. They were just there to pleasure themselves. We don’t need screamers for leaders 3. Bernie: Howard Dean’s Scream Over and Over Again Every time I see Bernie Sanders speak, I see Howard Dean. Sanders is not passionate, he’s irrational. After he loses an election or caucus, he starts talking about momentum, as if losing is a good thing because the campaign is about momentum, not issues. “What this entire campaign has been about is the issue of momentum….” Bernie Sanders, after losing Nevada It’s the ‘say nothing’ approach to communication that has no meaning, just key words strung together to incite applause. It’s not leadership, it’s Trumpmanship. 4. Bernie: Leadership Via Destruction Much of Sanders campaign has devolved into leadership via destruction. I agree with him on most of the issues, but in his speeches he tends to present himself as a dragon slayer and yet, he comes off more like Don Quixote. I supported him when he stayed on topic, but now he seems stuck on a message of attack rather than building. That’s not the route I support for someone to become President. 5. Bernie: Bottomless Pit of Promises It the past seven years have proven anything, it has proven that the President can do very little if he or she has a Congress that is not on the same page. Promises by a presidential candidate are the fairy dust of politics. What we need to hear from a Democratic Presidential candidate is: …elect me, AND elect these Democrats for Congress, and we will get Citizens United overturned, a ban on assault weapons restored, improve the healthcare system, …. Speeches are the leverage of action. If a candidate for President of the United States of America is truly seeking action, he or she needs to accept that their speech should acknowledge the path to action requires the citizen to do more than just elect her or him. Sandoval/Reid campaign money not a stimulus for Nevada Posted by Paul Kiser in About Reno, Branding, Communication, Consulting, Ethics, Government, History, Honor, Management Practices, Politics, Pride, Print Media, Public Relations, Traditional Media Blogging, Blogs, Democrats, Governor, Management Practices, Nevada, New Business World, Newspapers, Politics, Public Image, Public Relations, Publicity, Republican, Republicans, Rory Reid, Sandoval by Paul Kiser USA PDT [Twitter: ] [Facebook] [LinkedIn] [Skype:kiserrotary or 775.624.5679] Paul Kiser Article first published as on Technorati We endured relentless political ads on television and radio, but Nevada didn’t hit the jackpot in campaign dollars flowing into the State from the Governor’s race. Despite the fact that almost $3.8 million dollars was spent by the Sandoval for Governor Campaign in the months leading up to the election, 80% of the money was payable to recipients outside the State. Rory Reid’s campaign also spent a significant portion of its money to out-of-state firms with MSR Media Strategies, LLC in Fairfax, Virginia netting almost $2.8 million from the Reid campaign. Sandoval Campaign Expenses (Spreadsheet listing all campaign expenses through October 21, 2010) In a detailed review of Governor-Elect Sandoval’s campaign reports, 63% ($2.4 million) of campaign expenses were made payable to Strategic Media Services, inc. in Washington, D.C. for advertising. While some may argue that money spent for advertising comes back to the State in the form of purchased television and radio air time and newspaper ads, one Nevada media consultant pointed out that most media outlets in Nevada are owned by out-of-state media corporations, so political ads that ran on many local stations were payable to non-Nevada interests. The one exception is the Intermountain West Communications Company that owns several television stations including in the western United States including KSNV-Las Vegas, KRNV-Reno, and KENV-Elko. David Neal, President of Strategic Media Services, inc. (Sandoval’s leading campaign expenditure) and Kyle Osterhout, Partner of MSR Media Strategies, LLC (Rory Reid’s leading campaign expenditure) were not immediately available; however, two media experts with campaign related experience said that the standard fee for media agencies is 15% of the advertising purchase. In some cases a campaign may negotiate rebates from the media agency based on volume of business; however services such as the production of the ad are typically not included in the 15% fee. The Las Vegas area did benefit from 19% (over $720,000) of the campaign funds with over $400,000 paid to political and media consultants. Almost half a million dollars went to the three Las Vegas firms of October, Inc., Autumn Productions, and Autumn EMedia. The latter two are subsidiaries of November, Inc. The Reno, Lake Tahoe, and Carson Valley garnered only 1 percent (less than $30,000) from the Governor-Elect’s campaign and rural Nevada received less than $10,000. NEXT: Where the money came from in Sandoval’s campaign Business: Public Relations, Management, and Social Media Related A Question of Ethics HR/Security Hot Topic: Should you watch your employee’s personal Internet activities? (Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, etc.) Relationship Typing: 3 factors that affect the quality and depth of friendship (Part I) Starbucks Re-Imagines the business … again Your Privacy Rights on the Internet: Read before you write Social Media 3Q Update: Who uses Facebook, Twitter,LinkedIn, and MySpace? Richmond Embassy Suites: The best at true Hospitality Dear Business Person: It’s 2010, please update your brain. Selling watered-down beer: The best spin campaign in advertising Communication: Repetition of message does not increase awareness Is it time to fire yourself? Millennium Hotel: Go away, spend your money elsewhere Rogue Flight Attendant shows his arrogance, Airlines dislike for the customer 2Q 2010 Social Media Tools: Facebook/Twitter sail on, LinkedIn/MySpace don’t War Declared on Social Media: Desperate Acts of Traditional Media Pay It Middle: The Balance between Too Much and Too Little Compensation Mega Executive Pay Leads to Poor Performance Relationships and Thin-Slicing: Why the other person knows what you’re really thinking Browser Wars: Internet Explorer losing, Google Chrome gaining ground WiFi on Southwest Airlines: Is it ‘Shovel Ready’? Starbucks makes a smart move: Free WiFi Foul Play: FIFA shows what less regulation offers to business The Shock of the McChrystal Story: The story is over before the article is published Tony Hayward: The very model of a modern Major General Epic Fail: PR ‘Experts’ don’t get Twitter King of Anything: Social Media vs Traditional Media Twitter is the Thunderstorm of World Thought How Social Interactive Media Could Transform Higher Education How to Become a Zen Master of Social Media Death of All Salesmen! Aristotle’s General Rules on Social Media Social Media: What is it and Why Should You Care? Social Media 2020: Keep it Personal Social Media 2020: Who Shouldn’t Be Teaching Social Media Social Media 2020: Public Relations 2001 vs Social Media Relations 2010 Social Media 2020: Who Moved My Public Relations? Publishing Industry to End 2012 Who uses Facebook, Twitter, MySpace & LinkedIn? Fear of Public Relations Dissatisfiers: Why John Quit Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn…Oh My! Does Anybody Really Understand PR? Rotary Related Rotary@105: 7 Relationship types that affect membership retention (Part II) What most non-Rotarians don’t know about Rotary Rotary@105: Making Rotary Sexy Rotary@105: Grieving change How Rotary can..must..will plug into Social Media Rotary PR: Disrespecting the Club President is a PR/Membership issue Rotary Membership/Public Image Challenge Rotary New Year: Retread or Renaissance? Rotary@105: A young professionals networking club? One Rotary Center: A home for 1.2 million members Rotary@105: What BP Could Learn from the 1914 Rotary Code of Ethics Rotary Magazine Dilemma Reveals the Impact of Social Media Rotary@105: April 24th – Donald M. Carter Day Rotary@105: What kind of animal is Rotary International? Rotary: The Man in the Yellow Hat as the Ideal Club President? Rotary@105: Our 1st Rotary Club Dropout Rotary Public Relations and Membership: Eight Steps to a Team Win Rotary: All Public Relations is Local Best Practices: Become a Target! Science Related Negative Time: The Self-fulfilling Prophesy a Scientific Possibility? Physics in 2010: The more we understand, the less we know Personal Experience Related Knowing when it’s over or beyond over Dear Teresa Laraba, SVP of Southwest Airlines Customer Service Things I didn’t know about being a Father to a four-year-old boy Riding Reno: The Ladies of Reno Up in the air down in Texas I mow my lawn because… Nevada I-580: An Interstate by any other name Nevada’s oldest brewery opens a Reno location Two Barbecues and a Wedding Car Dealership Re-Imagines Customer Service Our Country and History Related Nevada’s Best Kept Secret: #1 in Crime The Vultures Start Circling on Election Day The Quality of Mercy: Tea Party seeks its pound of flesh I’m not angry, nor am I stupid … and I voted Point of Confusion What I’m not buying this year Nevada: State of Disaster Thank you, Mr. President America’s Hostile Takeover of Mexico I’m not angry, nor am I stupid…and I voted Posted by Paul Kiser in Branding, Business, Communication, Ethics, Government, Government Regulation, History, Internet, Lessons of Life, Passionate People, Politics, Pride, Public Relations, Random, Relationships, Respect, Rotary, Social Interactive Media (SIM), Taxes, US History, Women Blogging, Blogs, Chairman of the Republican National Committee, Christine O'Donnell, Democrats, Election, Election 2010, Elections, Meg Whitman, Mike Steele, Nevada, New Business World, Politics, Public Image, Public Relations, Publicity, Republicans, Sharron Angle, Social Media, Tea Party, Vote, Voting, Wackos I have seen the ads for the Democratic candidates that make the claim that their opponents are ‘extremists’. I disagree with this assessment of some of the Republican/Tea Party candidates. They are not extremists, they are just stupid. When the Nevada Republican candidate for Senate, Sharron Angle, suggest’s that ‘some people’ are angry enough to “invoke their Second Amendment Rights”, in an attempt to scare people into voting for her, that’s just stupid. When California Republican candidate for Governor, Meg Whitman, is blaming illegal immigrants for all the problems in her State, but then it’s revealed that she employed an undocumented worker, that’s just stupid. Angle: Manning up in stupid When Delaware Republican candidate for Senate, Christine O’Donnell, uses campaign contributions to pay for her personal household expenses that’s just stupid. When Sharron Angle says her opponent should ‘man up’ as if she is some tough cowboy out on the range, it sounds silly, and it’s just stupid. When Meg Whitman, a multi-millionaire and former CEO, is called a ‘whore’ by an unknown person in her opponent’s party and milks it as if she is some poor, defenseless, innocent Southern Bell, whose honor has been violated, that’s just stupid. O'Donnell: God's Chosen messenger to the US Senate When Christine O’Donnell, who ‘dabbled’ in witchcraft says that she ‘prays God will open people’s eyes’ so they will vote for her that’s just stupid. When the Michael Steele, Chairman of the Republican party, expenses his trip to a West Hollywood strip club to party funds, that’s just stupid. Michael Steele: RNC Chairman When Republican party candidates blame the economy on our government, instead of the unethical business men who traded our country’s future for profit for themselves and their investors, that’s just stupid. Today I voted, and I didn’t vote for stupid. I voted for Harry Reid who serves as a statesman for Nevada and for our country and who will be the best possible representative Nevada could hope for in the difficult times ahead. I voted for Rory Reid because I believe that Nevada must change direction from the low/no tax strategy (no income, corporate, capital gains, inventory taxes) that we have had for decades and now we are the 1st in unemployment, crime, and foreclosures, and among the worst in education. I also voted YES on all four State Amendments and two local Advisory Questions. I voted to have the Governor appoint Supreme and District court judges because I don’t like it when judges campaign. The electorate rarely pays attention to judicial offices and I would rather they be vetted in a formal process, not paraded in public like beauty candidates. I voted YES to have an intermediate court established. In a conversation with a Supreme Court Justice it became apparent that Nevada’s Justice system has a major bottleneck of cases that could be cleared out if we had a system similar to other States. I voted YES to allow the Legislature to resolve minor conflicts of our tax code with Federal law. I voted YES to repeal/revise the knee-jerk eminent domain law. It has problems and it needs to be fixed. I voted YES to ‘beg’ the State to seek the consent of local governments before raiding their revenues. I voted YES to encourage the consolidation of the Reno/Washoe governments. I wish Sparks was included. We have three government entities in this valley and it is a ridiculous duplication of services. This year we will learn whether stupid wins the day or not. John F. Kennedy put it the best: ‘you can fool some of the people all the time and you can fool all the people some of the time’. If stupid wins this year, the fools will be running the village. Heaven help us. Posted by Paul Kiser in Branding, Business, Communication, Ethics, Government, Government Regulation, History, Honor, Internet, Lessons of Life, Management Practices, Passionate People, Politics, Pride, Public Relations, Random, Re-Imagine!, Relationships, Respect, Rotary, Taxes, The Tipping Point, US History Blogging, Blogs, Christine O'Donnell, Conservatives, Crime, Depression, Ethics, Executive Management, Good Government, Hispanic, Illegal Aliens, Illegal Immigrants, LoCOS, Management Practices, Mexican Nationals, Mexico, Nevada, New Business World, Political Parties, Politics, Public Image, Public Relations, Publicity, Re-Imagine!, Recession, Republicans, Rotary, Sharron Angle, Tea Party, Unemployment, Unethical Business Practices Tis the season and there are a lot of political candidates out there selling their version of what is wrong with this country/state/county/city and how they are going to fix what ails us. This year is different from most because it seems that a lynch mob has taken over a prominent role in politics and like most lynch mobs they don’t need facts, they just need someone to be angry at and someone to blame. It would be easy to label the people behind this political lynch mob as ‘stupid’, but that is probably overly harsh. These people are driven by emotions, not a lack of intelligence, so stupid is not the correct term. I prefer to describe the lynch mob as people who have a Lack Of Critical Observation Skills (LoCOS for short.) This year the LoCOS are trying to sell a lot of garbage and I’m not buying it. For example: Nevada: The best at doing it wrong LoCOS: Lower taxes will improve the economy To the LoCOS who are selling the load I have one word. Nevada. Nevada has no Income tax. Nevada has no Capital Gains tax. Nevada has no Corporate tax. Nevada has no Inventory tax. Even conservative business groups rate Nevada as one of the most ‘business-friendly’ states. Nevada is to business what the Bunny Ranch was to male ego. According the LoCOS argument, Nevada should be awash in new business. Nevada’s economy should be booming. Nevada should be the poster child of the low tax concept. The fact is that the State exposes the Lo Tax/Mo Biz as a myth. Nevada is Number ONE in unemployment (2nd place Florida is over a full point better than the Silver State.) Nevada is Number ONE in crime. Nevada is Number ONE in housing foreclosures. Nevada is consistently among the lowest in unbiased education rankings. Nevada is proof that lower taxes does not make for a better economy. (Article: Nevada’s State of Disaster) LoCOS: Business is better at running our government Let’s remember that it wasn’t government that put us in a recession but business…BAD business. Government was an enabler, in that it stopped regulating and monitoring the unbridled greed of the incestuous investor-run business world, but at the end of the day it was business people who made all the decisions. The corporate executives chose to ignore the obvious result that would happen from their greed and dove head on into unethical practices that doomed our economy. Greed is inherent in business. Greed is why business exists. There is no ‘care for fellow citizen’ in the business world. Business is based on competition, winners and losers, and often the losers are not the weakest, but rather loser’s are the one’s with morals. Business only keeps to a moral compass when there is an unbiased arbiter oversees its activities. That is the role of government. This year we are seeing the perversion of investor-run business with clearer eyes. The Chamber of Commerce has abandoned their mission of promoting good business in the community in favor of attacking local governments and promoting only those candidates that will remove the protections for honest business and our citizens. It is ironic that anyone would suggest that business, with its greed-driven motives and proven track record of unethical practices, should replace good government. Don’t get me wrong, a strong economy needs good, healthy businesses, but good, healthy businesses need a strong government to create and monitor the rules for which guide and protect all. The leap of logic of the LoCOS, that our government should be run as a business, is as absurd as saying that FIFA needs fewer referees on the soccer field. LoCOS: The trillion-dollar debt is bad The LoCOS must have Alzheimer’s. I’m not in favor of a large deficit, especially when it involves sending US dollars to finance the destruction of another country …. but I’m really not in favor of is a Depression. That is what we faced in early 2009. Business had raped our economy through outrageous, unregulated practices and we were on the brink of an abyss that had no bottom. Again, business, not government caused our economy to fail. Initially, our country let big banks suffer the consequences of what they had done, but it quickly became apparent that what was about to happen was the massive collapse of the entire economic system, which would have forced the United States government to take over the day-to-day operations of almost all of our major financial institutions. Cheney's Folly: The start of our debt problems The alternative to a nuclear meltdown of our economy was to lend money to those institutions, help initiate controlled purchases of ailing banks, and invest government money in key assistance programs. Was it a bailout? Yes, but it was investing, not buying, which meant we would get the money back in almost every case. The government also invested money in the mismanaged auto industry that, if not preserved, would have sent us into Depression-era unemployment overnight. Yes, it increased our nation’s debt. A debt that had gone from surplus in President Clinton’s years, to a deficit under George Bush. It would have been better if we had not spent so much money on Cheney’s overseas folly and already been in the hole when the house of cards of bad business fell, but there was no choice. The decisions made in late 2008 and early 2009 were necessary and save our country from disaster. Have we recovered? No. But the LoCOS rage over a big deficit is being driven and financed by the major corporations that would prefer the citizen forget what really happened. I wish business hadn’t forced us to use trillions of taxpayer’s dollar to remedy their greed, but we had no choice. LoCOS: Government is bad Government is really, really good providing it is run by reasonable people who truly care for the citizens … all the citizens. There is one difference between civilization and anarchy and that is government. Every time I hear the LoCOS point out an example of bad government I can think of a hundred ways that government has made our country great. I mentioned to a person that the airlines need to be regulated again and they pointed out how, under government regulation, an airline was forced to maintain a route to a small city that was not profitable. Yes, that is tough, but what about the scores of lucrative routes that government regulation handed that same airline on a silver platter? I’m really weary of the single exceptions to how great government has been in making this the strongest country in the history of the world. Single exceptions do not make an argument for destroying our country. Government is the foundation of our society and the only people who don’t benefit from a strong government are the greedy and unethical. When we were in school we would have rather had no teachers telling us what to do, but that wouldn’t have made our education better. It’s time we stopped making the argument of a 5th grader…and time we started respecting what a blessing it is to have a government that keeps our society from devolving into anarchy. The Face of the LoCO People LoCOS: Electing stupid people is smart This one mystifies me. A candidate from any other party would be laughed out of politics for saying or doing something stupid and yet candidates for the LoCOS wear their stupidity like a new hat. LoCOS candidates are avoiding the media, saying one thing, then changing their story. They scream about illegal aliens and how they are destroying our country, then it’s revealed they were employing them. They dress in Nazi uniforms. They steal other people’s work and claim it as their own. They take campaign money and pay their personal bills with it. They have to explain to people why they are not a witch. They threaten violence on people, yell about almost anything, deceive, and often outright lie…and the LoCOS cheer on. I know that the quality of candidates of the LoCOS is a reflection of the lack of respect they have for our country and government, but isn’t prima facie evidence that the LoCOS can’t really be trying to improve our country when they are represented by the worst of the worst? LoCO S: Illegal aliens (=Hispanics) are destroying this country First, let’s remember that a major portion of the United States (California, Nevada, Utah, southwestern Wyoming, western Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas belonged to Mexico until the mid-1800’s. We took the land from them at gunpoint and paid fifty cents on the dollar for the land. I could make a strong argument that Mexican nationals are not really the illegal aliens in Alta California, Nuevo Mexico, and Tejas, but I will let that dog rest. (Article: America’s Hostile Takeover of Mexico) Regardless of the history of Mexico and the United States, the fact is that a typical tactic of a lynch mob is to find a symbol (person or group) that has little or no opportunity to defend themselves and present them as evil. This is a tactic used by the KKK, the Nazis, and every ultra-right wing, nationalistic, racist group. It doesn’t matter of whether the targeted group is guilty of anything, just that they, or no one else, is able or willing to stand up and challenge the accusations. Mexican immigrants are the perfect target for a group like the LoCOS. The facts are that: Most Mexican undocumented immigrants lead quiet, peaceful, law-abiding lives in the United States (a fact that the LoCOS lie about) Mexican undocumented immigrants are working jobs that no American citizen wants to do That the United States is the primary enabler of the drug wars in Mexico (we buy the product and sell them the arms) Mexican undocumented immigrants can’t file for Income Tax refunds (which most would get if they were citizens) so the United States collects and keeps all the money deducted from their pay. But according to the LoCOS, they are pure evil and responsible for our all our economic and societal ills. In Arizona, a sheriff’s deputy called that he was under attack by Mexican drug smugglers and was shot. He became the hero of the LoCOS. Deputy Puroll's wound Despite a massive effort, no drug smugglers were found. Now it turns out that the wound was from a bullet fired at close range (not from 25 yards as he claimed) and likely self-inflicted. Almost no one questioned the story of the deputy at the time, despite the inconsistencies in his account. Why should they, blame it on the Mexicans. Naturally, the story has to be true! To me, the whole issue of ‘illegal aliens’ is a tornado in search of a trailer park. The damning terminology, the use of single examples, and falsified facts all indicate that the LoCOS need to create a threat and it the Muslims are too far away to pick on so the target is Mexican nationals. The New Testament of the Bible has clear instructions on how a Christian is behave. Jesus said to love thy neighbor as thyself. The Apostle Paul says, “…as touching brotherly love ye need not that I write unto you: for ye yourselves are taught of God to love one another..” (1 Thessalonians 4:9). The LoCOS often boast of their devotion to Christ and then desecrate his teachings by their un-Christian attitude towards those of Hispanic descent. I’m not buying it. LoCOS: Threatening our government and the electorate with armed rebellion Several members of the LoCOS, including LoCOS candidates have indicated that ‘some people’ may be mad enough at our government to invoke ‘their Second Amendment Rights’. I don’t care how you say it, to suggest that some people are going to take up arms against their fellow citizens (if the LoCOS don’t get their way) is wrong. In this country we vote, and we don’t take up arms to enforce the LoCOS will on the majority. Anyone who suggests this is a threat to our Constitution and to this country. Mad or not, there is a line that cannot be crossed over. I know that everything I said here will not make any difference to the LoCOS. In fact, they will be outraged that I spoke out against their unbridled illogical arguments. You can’t reason with a lynch mob. But sometime in the future we will all look back on this and say, “What were the LoCOS thinking?” The problem is that they are not.	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4290
__label__wiki	0.862444	0.862444	Tag Archives: Jamia Naeemia Lahore PAKISTAN: MINORITY RIGHTS DEFENDER SAID TO BE VICTIM OF ISLAMISTS Posted on August 8, 2009 by particularkev Muslim who converted, married Christian woman opposed Joseph Francis’ efforts. LOS ANGELES, July 23 (Compass Direct News) – Pakistani minority rights defender Joseph Francis has been unjustly jailed by Islamists and others who oppose his work on behalf of Christians, according to the legal aid organization Francis directs. An Islamist in Punjab Province who said he had converted to Christianity subsequently converted a young woman to Islam and married her, setting into motion a series of spurious charges when her parents brought her to Francis for counsel, according to the Lahore-based Centre for Legal Aid Assistance and Settlement (CLAAS). Angered when her family brought her to Francis hoping he would counsel her away from Islam, Mehboob Basharat then arranged for baseless charges to be filed against Francis, director of CLAAS, for allegedly detaining her and setting her on fire, CLAAS officials said in a statement. Francis was jailed on July 12 after Basharat filed specious charges against him for forging documents and concealing his travel out of the country while on bail. Those charges arose out of the previous case, in which Basharat arranged for the woman he converted to Islam to charge the CLAAS director and others with forcibly detaining and assaulting her in 2006 – even though she previously had told police she suffered no ill treatment at the CLAAS offices. “His only crime was to help suffering parents of a young Christian girl who was taken away from her family,” according to the CLAAS statement. Francis’ predicament began when Basharat went to Bishop Samuel Azariah of Raiwind diocese in 2006 and told him that he, his wife and two children had converted from Islam to Christianity. Since his conversion, he told Bishop Azariah, his Muslim family and friends had ostracized him, and he pleaded with the clergyman to employ him. Bishop Azariah gave him a job in the diocese and provided a living space for him on the church premises, according to CLAAS. Though he never attended church services, Basharat started socializing with Christian families of the congregation and showed excessive interest in their daughters, according to CLAAS. Pastor Emmanuel Khokhar took note and gave Basharat a warning, according to CLAAS. Basharat became close with Roma Masih, one of six daughters in a family at the congregation, and on Sept. 26, 2006 he took her to a Muslim education center called Jamia Naeemia Lahore, where she embraced Islam and took on the name Aisha; he later eloped with her, and on Nov. 26, 2006 they married under Islamic rites, according to CLAAS. When her family found out, they went to Bishop Azariah, who referred them to CLAAS for help. Roma/Aisha’s parents, Khursheed Masih and Shamim Masih, asked Francis to talk with their daughter. Basharat, meantime, returned to Raiwind (25 kilometers from Lahore) to collect his first wife and children, at one point threatening Bishop Azariah when the clergyman tried to talk to him. On Dec. 23, 2006 Basharat allowed Roma/Aisha to go to her parents’ house. They immediately brought her to CLAAS offices, insisting that Francis keep her in the organization’s second-floor shelter for abused women. “They said that if she stayed away from Basharat, maybe she will change her mind and come back to her family,” according to the CLAAS statement. Roma/Aisha, some of her sisters and their mother stayed overnight at the shelter, and the convert told Francis that she was now a Muslim and did not wish to associate with “infidels.” Francis told Roma/Aisha’s parents that she now considered herself a Muslim and urged them not to insist on their daughter remaining with them, according to CLAAS. Upon learning that the Masihs had taken their daughter to CLAAS offices, Basharat on Dec. 23, 2006 complained to police in Lahore that the Christian parents of his wife were detaining her. The next day, police summoned Francis. When he and Roma/Aisha arrived at the station that evening, Basharat and a crowd of 40-45 mullahs (Muslim clergy) were waiting for them. Nevertheless, Roma/Aisha signed a statement at the police station saying that she had not been held hostage or detained against her will, that she went to CLAAS offices of her own free will and that no one misbehaved or ill-treated her there, according to CLAAS. She left with Basharat. On Feb. 18, 2007, Basharat, Roma/Aisha and attorney Raja Nathaniel, a church-going attorney at odds with the local Christian community, held a press conference in which Basharat accused Bishop Azariah and Francis of abducting his new wife and forcing her to reconvert back to Christianity. Nathaniel, according to CLAAS, at times “has converted to Islam to marry young girls” and has several cases pending against him for illegally confiscating church property in Raiwind; CLAAS notes that in most of those cases it provides legal assistance to the church. Three months after the press conference, under the guidance of Basharat and with the financial support of Nathaniel, Roma/Aisha filed charges at the Icchara, Lahore police station against her father, mother, three sisters, Bishop Azariah, Pastor Khokhar and Francis; she accused all of them of forcibly detaining her, mistreating her and attempting to burn her. All of the accused obtained pre-arrest bail. In July 2007, Francis went to England at the invitation of the late former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, along with prominent political leaders, to attend a three-day conference in London. Summoned to a bail hearing on July 14, 2007, he came back on July 15, 2007 and appeared in court the next day, according to CLAAS. On Dec. 24, 2008 Francis learned that Basharat had filed a new case against him, accusing him of concealing his travel abroad while on bail and forging a medical certificate. Also charged were CLAAS employee Ashar Sarfaraz and Sarfaraz’s brother-in-law, Zulfiqar Wilson. The forgery charges arose after CLAAS submitted a medical certificate indicating that Francis, who suffers from diabetes, was too ill to return quickly for the court hearing on July 14, 2007. CLAAS Program Officer Katherine Sapna said that former CLAAS staff members Aneeqa Maria Akthar and Justin Gill submitted the medical certificate, but Akthar told Compass neither she nor Gill submitted any documents related to the certificate and never went to the court. She added that CLAAS had not even assigned her to the case. “When someone submits any document before the court,” she told Compass, “the court takes the submission by getting signatures of a person who submits the document, and certainly there are no signatures of mine.” She acknowledged that she discussed the matter with CLAAS lawyers at the time – Akbar Munawar Durrani, Tahir Gull and Aric John – and that she suggested that if Francis were to try to return in time for the July 14 court summons, it would cause an undue hardship on him as a diabetic to appear in court after arriving in Pakistan from England early in the morning. “It was just a suggestion, and it did not lead to [me committing] forgery,” she said. “Instead, Ashar Sarfaraz heard this and he went to the doctor himself who was treating Mr. Francis, without asking or telling any of us, and got the certificate. He also submitted the certificate himself in the court, and not the lawyers.” On these charges Francis obtained pre-arrest bail on Dec. 29, 2008, and when CLAAS filed a petition in Lahore High Court for the dismissal of this case, the court set a hearing for June 8, according to CLAAS. At that hearing, Basharat’s lawyer accused Francis not only of being in contempt of court by having traveled abroad while on bail but of using his influence to harass Roma/Aisha into forsaking Islam – the young woman’s remaining a Muslim notwithstanding. Francis’ counsel tried to explain to the court that Basharat and his wife were “misleading the court by purposely making it a religious issue for their own vested interest.” They informed the court that his travel was not concealed but public knowledge, having been published in major newspapers, and that therefore Francis had no reason to prepare or submit any documents explaining his actions. “But the court overlooked every argument and dismissed the petition for dismissal,” according to CLAAS’ statement. “On July 9, the same judge who dismissed the petition rejected Mr. Joseph Francis’ bail in this case and ordered the police to arrest Mr. Francis.” This is not the first time that Pakistani courts have put their bias against Christians on display, according to CLAAS. “Over the years, CLAAS has perused several such cases in which law was overlooked and justice was denied to victims on the basis of their religion, gender, political affiliation and social status,” organization officials said in the statement. CLAAS urged proponents of human rights to write the Pakistani president, prime minister, foreign and interior ministers, chief justice, federal minister of Law Justice and Human Rights, and Pakistani Embassies around the world. Posted in Christianity, Islam, Pakistan \| Tagged abducting, abused, accused, actions, affiliation, aid, Aisha, Akbar Munawar Durrani, Aneeqa Maria Akthar, angered, argument, Aric John, arranged, Ashar Sarfaraz, assaulting, assistance, associate, attempting, attended, Azariah, bail, based, baseless, Benazir Bhutto, bias, bishop, brother-in-law, burn, center, Centre for Legal Aid Assistance and Settlement, change, charges, Chief Justice, children, Christian, Christianity, Christians, church, church-going, CLAAS, clergy, clergyman, close, collect, community, concealing, conference, confiscating, congregation, considered, conversion, converted, counsel, country, court, crime, crowd, daughters, defender, detaining, diabetes, diocese, director, directs, dismissal, dismissed, documents, education, efforts, eloped, embassies, embraced, Emmanuel Khokhar, employ, employee, England, excessive, families, family, federal minister, filed, financial, fire, forcibly, forcing, foreign, forgery, forging, former, forsaking, free will, friends, gender, girl, girls, guidance, harass, help, high, hostage, human rights, Icchara, ill, ill-treated, illegally, incarceration, infidels, interest, interior, invitation, Islam, Islamists, jailed, Jamia Naeemia Lahore, job, Joseph Francis, Justin Gill, Katherine Sapna, Khursheed Masih, Lahore, late, law, leaders, legal, living, London, major, married, marry, medical certificate, Mehboob Basharat, mind, minister, minority, misbehaved, misleading, motion, mullahs, Muslim, muslims, new, newspapers, note, offices, officials, oppose, opposed, organization, ostracized, overlooked, overnight, Pakistan, Pakistani, parents, Pastor, pending, Persecution, petition, pleaded, police, political, pre-arrest, predicament, premises, President, press conference, Prime Minister, prominent, property, proponents, provided, published, Punjab Province, Raiwind, Raja Nathaniel, reconvert, referred, religion, rights, rites, Roma Masih, Samuel Azariah, series, services, Shamim Masih, shelter, showed, sisters, social, socializing, Space, specious, spurious, started, statement, station, status, stayed, submitted, suffered, suffering, summoned, support, Tahir Gull, threatening, travel, traveled, treating, treatment, unjustly, victim, victims, warning, wife, will, woman, women, work, world, young, Zulfigar Wilson \| Leave a comment	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4291
__label__cc	0.531352	0.468648	Find Movies Shot on Film Easily with Kodak’s new Reel Film App App Film Mike Bishop - 1 year ago One for the serious, purist film buffs amongst you. Kodak has launched a brand-new mobile app called the ‘Kodak Reel Film App’ providing a brilliant and effective resource to seek out which films have been shot using analogue film and also where they’re playing in the user’s locality Kodak has made the new application remarkably simple to use. Simply download the application, either on Android or IOS and start to explore the movies that have been shot on film and find the cinemas that are showing them in your area. Alternatively, it can be used as a tool to simply find cinemas that are nearby and that are projecting films. Many of you will be shocked to learn of some of the films that have been shot using analogue film, with many recent films such as ‘Star Wars: The Last Jedi’, ‘I, Tonya’, and ‘The Post’ on the list. It’s a sure sign of the ongoing trend that’s seen the revival of many other kinds of analogue formats rising in popularity, i.e. film photography, vinyl records and even the trusty old tape cassette! To coincide with the announcement of the new Reel Film app, Kodak also released their pick of 2017 Top Films Shown on Film, with comprehensive descriptions and in-depth information about the [shot using analogue film] movies that they enjoyed the most. The new is currently available in the United States, United Kingdom, and Ireland KodakReelFilm MotionPicture ReelFilm ReelFilmApp Digital Media @ PhotoBite In his everyday life, Mike is a web designer and developer who owns and runs Miniman Web Design. Besides looking after all of PhotoBite's digital needs he also finds the time to bum around on Slack and mismanage one of the largest web development forums on the internet! More from Mike Bishop	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4302
__label__cc	0.625879	0.374121	Exploring computerised cognitive training as a therapeutic intervention for people with Huntington’s disease (CogTrainHD): protocol for a randomised feasibility study Emma Yhnell1Email authorView ORCID ID profile, Hannah Furby2, Rachel S. Breen3, Lucy C. Brookes-Howell3, Cheney J. G. Drew3, Rebecca Playle3, Gareth Watson3, Claudia Metzler-Baddeley2, Anne E. Rosser1 and Monica E. Busse3 Received: 16 August 2017 Accepted: 18 January 2018 Published: 6 February 2018 Cognitive impairments, especially deficits of executive function, have been well documented as a core and early feature in Huntington’s disease (HD). Cognitive impairments represent considerable burden and can be devastating for people and families affected by HD. Computerised cognitive training interventions that focus on improving executive function present a possible non-pharmacological treatment option. We propose to determine the feasibility, acceptability, and appropriate outcome measures for use in a randomised controlled feasibility study. Methods/design Participants will be randomised into either a computerised cognitive training group or a control group. Those randomised to the training group will be asked to complete a cognitive training intervention based on the HappyNeuron Pro software tasks of executive function, for a minimum of 30 min, three times a week for the 12-week study duration. Participants in the control group will not receive computerised cognitive training but will receive a similar degree of social interaction via equivalent study and home visits. We will explore quantitative outcome measures, including measures of cognitive performance, motor function, questionnaires and semi-structured interviews, as well as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) measures in a subset of participants. Feasibility will be determined through assessment of recruitment, retention, adherence and acceptability of the intervention. The results of this study will provide crucial guidance and information regarding the feasibility of conducting a randomised controlled study into computerised cognitive training in HD. This study is crucial for the development of larger definitive randomised controlled trials which are powered to determine efficacy and for the development of future cognitive training programmes for people affected by HD. The study is registered on clinicaltrials.gov and has the unique identifier NCT02990676. Computerised cognitive training Background and rationale Huntington’s disease (HD) is caused by a CAG repeat trinucleotide expansion within the first exon of the huntingtin gene [1], and it causes a range of symptoms including motor, cognitive and psychiatric disturbances [2–8]. These disease symptoms significantly affect daily activities, independence and quality of life, even during the early stages of the disease [9, 10]. Cognitive dysfunctions early in the HD disease process have been well documented and can include specific problems with attention, cognitive flexibility and memory [11, 12]. Therefore, cognitive training interventions, which focus on tasks that require executive function, present a potentially exciting non-pharmacological treatment option for neurodegenerative diseases including HD. Studies in HD mice have previously demonstrated executive function impairments [13, 14], and subsequent studies have shown that cognitive training can benefit HD mice and modify the associated cognitive and motor disease symptoms [15, 16]. These results provide important ‘proof of principle’ evidence that an early cognitive training intervention may be beneficial in HD. Furthermore, there is accumulating evidence in both healthy and clinical populations that cognitive training, via repeatedly conducting tasks that require specific aspects of executive function such as attention, reasoning, dual tasking and memory, can improve cognitive functions in the trained domain [17–20]. For instance, computerised cognitive training on such tasks has been found to improve cognitive impairments in Alzheimer’s disease [21–23] and Parkinson’s disease [24–26]. In addition, a recent single arm feasibility study demonstrated the feasibility of and adherence to working memory training on the Cogmed QM programme in a small sample of HD patients [27]. Furthermore, previous studies have found that training-related changes are associated with alterations in white matter, particularly with regard to altered myelination in both healthy controls [28] and HD [20]. Thus, we intend to use MRI measures to explore the potential neural mechanisms which may be associated with computerised cognitive training in the HD clinical population. The utilisation of computerised cognitive training strategies may provide several advantages over repeating practical tasks [17, 18]. Computerised cognitive training strategies are automated and often provide adaptive difficulty levels based on participant performance. Furthermore, they can be completed by participants at their convenience, they provide automated tasks which require comparatively little demand on motor function and they provide several objective outcome measures which can be used to detect subtle changes in function [21–26]. Furthermore, the HappyNeuron cognitive training software, that we intend to use in this study, can be made available in different languages to allow for consistent training globally, and it provides an interface for the researcher to observe the progress of participants. Despite this, computerised cognitive training interventions are yet to be extensively investigated in the HD clinical population. Therefore, this feasibility study will clarify key uncertainties regarding the study design, participant eligibility and willingness of potential participants to consent to the study and be randomised as well as recruitment, retention and acceptability. It will also facilitate the evaluation of outcome measures and an estimation of effect of the intervention. This study is a necessary step before proceeding to a fully powered efficacy trial in the HD patient population [29]. The primary aim of this study is to determine if computerised cognitive training is feasible and acceptable for people with HD in the setting of a randomised controlled study. A secondary aim is the exploration of outcome measures of cognitive function, motor function and questionnaires. Furthermore, we will explore possible mechanistic measures of training-related plasticity through magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) metrics. Primary objective To assess the feasibility of delivering a home-based computerised cognitive training programme for people with HD, utilising both quantitative and qualitative measures considering: - The willingness of eligible participants to receive the intervention and participate in a randomised controlled study - Potential barriers to recruitment - Potential barriers to completion of the study - Response rates and adherence to the computerised cognitive training programme Secondary objectives To explore group effect estimates between the cognitive training intervention group in comparison to the control group. To use MRI techniques in a subset of participants to explore the potential neural mechanisms of brain plasticity that may underpin any observed effects. To evaluate the intervention using participant and family member/carer feedback to inform future trials in this patient population. The proposed study is a randomised feasibility study of an online computerised cognitive training intervention for people with HD, to be completed in the home. Those allocated to the control group will be asked to continue as normal. All participants will receive home visits. The home visits will include a battery of cognitive tests for both groups; those allocated to the intervention will receive support in setting up the computerised cognitive training software. Within the overall study, a subgroup of 16 participants will undergo MRI at baseline, and approximately 6 weeks into the intervention, MRI will be offered to participants on a first come first served basis for those who are eligible and willing. The feasibility of repeated imaging in this patient population will be ascertained, and an exploration of the most appropriate MRI metrics will also be undertaken as part of the feasibility study. The study schema is illustrated in Fig. 1. Schematic representation of feasibility study Participants, interventions and outcomes Study setting Participants will be recruited from the Cardiff HD Centre at Cardiff University. Study assessments will take place in the Hadyn Ellis Building (HEB) and Cardiff University Brain Research Imaging Centre (CUBRIC). Many patients attending the centre are already participating in the Enroll-HD observational study (REC no. 04/WSE05/89), which longitudinally monitors the progression of disease symptoms. Enroll-HD participants provide permission to be contacted about other HD research studies and for their coded data to be accessed by researchers conducting HD-related research; therefore, these participants will be approached for this study. As such, a full clinical data set including full medical and medication history will be available for each research participant. In addition, we will seek consent to approach participant family members, friends and carers for interview, although involvement of a family member, friend or carer is not a requirement for participation in the study. Inclusion and exclusion criteria for the study are shown in Table 1. The inclusion and exclusion criteria are broad to determine feasibility for a range of disease stages which will inform the design and delivery of future trials. Inclusion and exclusion criteria • Confirmed HD diagnosis by genetic test. • Over 18 years of age. • Enrolled in the Enroll-HD study. • Stable medication regime 4 weeks prior to recruitment (and not anticipated to change medications during the study period). • Inability to provide consent. • Any known neurological condition (other than HD). • Currently actively involved in any other interventional trial (i.e. have begun the intervention) or within 4 weeks of completing the final assessments of an interventional trial. • Currently regularly completing a computerised cognitive training intervention. • For the subset of participant’s eligible and willing to have an MRI scan, MRI contraindications (e.g. a pacemaker) as established using CUBRIC’s standard screening procedures. In addition, significant levels of disease-related chorea will exclude participants from MRI. The cognitive training intervention The 12-week cognitive training intervention, using HappyNeuron Pro software, will be completed in participant homes. The software is automated, such that it provides non-biased data recording and an interface which allows the researcher to track compliance remotely. It has previously been validated in both healthy controls [30] and patients with depression [31] and has shown patient benefit including improved cognition and functionality. The cognitive training intervention will comprise six tasks developed by HappyNeuron which are specifically aimed at training within the executive function domain. These tasks include: ‘Writing in the stars’ The participant is given a list of nine words. Only six of them can be used to fill the empty squares and connect with each other to form the six-point star. This exercise aims to train logical reasoning in order to determine which six words to choose from the list of nine, to find which positions of letters are common to two or three words. ‘Basketball in New York’ The participant sees a first line of three hoops with coloured basketballs inside. In the second line, they will have to determine the number of basketball moves that are required to reach the same configuration as the first line of hoops. This exercise aims to train visual mental imagery as all the possible actions must be visualised in order to complete the task. ‘Decipher’ The participant is asked to decipher quotations where the letters have been replaced, either by letters or by symbols. Each letter is always replaced by the same letter or symbol. This exercise is designed to train the participant’s concentration, language (spelling, grammar rules, letter frequency), logic and the capacity to make deductions from hypotheses. ‘The Towers of Hanoi’ The participant must configure coloured rings on a series of pegs to match a target image. There are a number of rules. The participant can only move one ring at a time and can never put a larger ring on top of a smaller ring. This task is designed to train temporal-spatial design, memory and planning skills. This computerised task is directly related to the ‘real life’ version which will be completed during the participant home visits; thus, we will investigate any possible transfer effects of this training. ‘Hurray for change’ This task comprises two exercises. In the first part, a series of 4 to 16 letters or words must be linked in alphabetical order. The second part demands that the participant alternately sorts two series of items. This exercise requires concentration and visual and spatial exploration skills. It is designed to train mental flexibility, visual and verbal working memory and language skills. This online task is similar in nature to the trail making tasks which are included as part of the written study assessments. Thus, we will analyse any transfer effects. ‘The right count’ In this exercise, the participant is presented with a series of numbers and mathematical symbols to perform mental arithmetic calculations. This game trains working memory, executive function (calculation and arithmetic reasoning) and mental imagery. The tasks have an adaptive design in that when completing the tasks, participants are required to achieve an 80% level of accuracy twice within the testing period in order to progress to the next level of the task. If a participant achieves less than 60% accuracy on a task, they will be automatically moved to a lower difficulty level. There is a maximum of nine difficulty levels in each task available to participants. If a participant reaches level nine, they will be required to continue at this level for the remainder of the training. Performance data is recorded at the completion of each game and is transmitted and stored on the HappyNeuron server. Participants will be asked to complete the HappyNeuron Pro training for a minimum of 30 min three times a week for 12 weeks, based on the recommendations of the software provider. Completion of the cognitive training programme will be supported by email or telephone reminders and remotely monitored by the researchers through an interface. The data generated during the intervention, including the tasks completed, duration of tasks and levels achieved will be stored according to HappyNeuron policies and exported to the researchers upon request. Participants allocated to the control group will be asked to continue as normal for the 12-week duration. The control participants will also receive home visits, to control for increased social interaction. Involvement of nominated carers, friends or family members The intervention is designed to be completed independently by the participant. However, as part of this feasibility study, we will be investigating if any nominated carers, family members or friends help or aid any of the participants in completing the intervention. Participants and nominated carers, friends or family members will be instructed that they may help the participant if they feel able and willing, although they are not specifically required to do so. However, they must not complete the training for the participant. The involvement of carers, family members or friends may be an important aspect of the study and something that will be specifically explored in the semi-structured interviews in order to inform future trials. Outcome assessments As this feasibility study is exploratory in nature, the outcome measures selected for inclusion in this study will be utilised to inform future larger trials. Baseline and outcome assessments will be completed during the study (Table 2), in addition to MRI measures which will be completed at baseline and 6 weeks into the intervention. An extended battery of cognitive assessments will be completed during home visits (Table 2). Study outcome assessments Overall assessment categories are indicated in shaded boxes *Tests to be included in the extended battery of cognitive assessments to be completed in participant homes during study home visits Participant timeline The participant timeline is shown in Table 3. Schema of assessments and intervention Shaded areas indicate subgroups of study assessments Withdrawal and loss to follow-up If a participant wishes to withdraw from the study, they can inform the researchers conducting the study or any member of the research team at any time, in person, via telephone or in writing. If a participant initially consents but subsequently withdraws from the study, a clear distinction will be made as to what aspect of the study the participant is withdrawing from utilising a study withdrawal form. This is an exploratory feasibility study which aims to establish the feasibility of conducting a randomised controlled study into computerised cognitive training intervention in the HD patient population and provide evidence for a formal power calculation. We will aim to recruit 50 participants with a target of randomising 40 participants. The suggested numbers are based on previous literature regarding cognitive training in other diseases [21–27]. A subgroup of 16 participants (n = 8 in the training and n = 8 in the control group) will undergo MRI scanning before and 6 weeks into the intervention. An invitation letter and information sheet will be sent to potential participants who are already participating in the Enroll-HD study. In addition, Enroll-HD participants may be approached during their clinical visits and will be informed of the study. Potential participants will be given sufficient time to ask questions, discuss the study with the researchers and discuss the study further with their family and friends. Potential participants who wish to participate will be reminded that they can change their mind or withdraw without reason at any time and that their decision will not affect the standard care that they receive. Willing participants will be asked to sign a consent form, and the initial assessments will then begin. All potential participants will be screened for their eligibility based on the inclusion/exclusion criteria. MRI scanning is an additional component of the study for those who are eligible. Thus, as part of the screening process, eligible participants will be screened for contraindications to MRI and will be asked to sign an additional consent form which ensures that they understand the potential risks of MRI. Assignment of interventions Sequence generation, allocation concealment mechanism and implementation Randomisation will be performed using a minimisation procedure utilising Minim computer software [32] to ensure balance between the groups for categorical variables of age and cognitive function (determined by the categorical verbal fluency test). Age and cognitive function were chosen as balancing variables, as they have been shown to be significantly associated with cognitive ability [33, 34]; thus, they will be given the same weighting during the minimisation procedure. Allocation and the minimization procedure will be performed by an independent statistician who will input the balancing variables into the Minim software in order to provide the group allocation (intervention or control) for each research participant. Blinding (masking) Blinding is not used in this study, due to limited resources and staffing. Participants allocated to the intervention group will know that they have been allocated to this group as they are required to complete the cognitive training intervention. The lack of blinding is a limitation of the study design; however, quantitative outcome measures have been utilised where possible in order to minimise the possible bias that may be introduced due to a lack of blinding. Data collection, management and analysis Data collection methods Data will be collected on paper case report forms (CRFs), before subsequent entry into an online database. Semi-structured interviews will be recorded on a Dictaphone before being transcribed verbatim prior to subsequent analysis. MRI data will be stored on the secure CUBRIC database and downloaded on to secure Cardiff University user accounts to enable further processing and statistical analysis. Electronic data will be stored within firewall- and password-protected computer systems. No data, whether paper or electronic, will leave the Cardiff University site without being completely anonymised. At the conclusion of the study, patient identifiable data will be destroyed and non-identifiable data will be archived for 15 years, in line with Cardiff University policies. Anonymised data may be shared with researchers at Cardiff University and with other research organisations in the UK; it may also be made publicly available for future research use or shared with the organisations who are funding the study. In the case of the data generated using HappyNeuron systems, these data are captured centrally and are therefore subject to HappyNeuron’s policies and procedures. All participant identification and referral procedures as well as procedures for data storage, processing and management will comply with the Data Protection Act 1998. Data collected on paper forms will be stored in locked cabinets in a swipe card access-controlled building, in compliance with the guidelines set by the Cardiff University Research Governance Framework. Adherence to the proposed cognitive training intervention and any serious adverse events (SAEs) will be reported alongside participant withdrawals. Summary statistics of demographics will be reported for both the control and intervention groups. Descriptive data will include an evaluation of eligibility, recruitment, retention rates and adherence to the intervention, with 95% confidence intervals. Successful adherence to the intervention will be defined as having completed 12 weeks of the computerised cognitive training for a minimum of three, 30-min sessions per week. This is a feasibility study; thus, an estimation of retention rates may be difficult with such as small sample size. Therefore, it is suggested that if retention rates are greater than 75%, we will consider this intervention to be feasible. If the proportion retained is less than this but greater than 65%, we will consider adjusting the intervention to increase this in future investigations. MRI analysis Potential cognitive training-related changes in the microstructure of white matter pathways of the basal ganglia and motor systems will be assessed with quantitative metrics based on diffusion-weighted (fractional anisotropy, mean and radial diffusivity) and magnetization transfer-weighted MRI (macromolecular proton fraction as proxy MRI metric of axon myelin) [35–37]. Changes in basal ganglia volume will be investigated by extracting subcortical volumes with the FSL-FIRST pipeline [38]. Changes in cerebral blood flow will also be investigated across the whole brain as well as subcortical basal ganglia regions using established methods [39]. The quantitative metrics of tissue structure and blood flow will be correlated with changes in cognition to investigate training-related brain-function associations as well as measures of disease severity, including CAG repeat length, disease burden and Unified Huntington’s Disease Rating Scale (UHDRS) motor scores, using data previously collected and stored as part of the Enroll-HD study. Semi-structured interview analyses Interview topics will differ slightly depending on allocation and are likely to include how the intervention is perceived/ received, expected or perceived impact on daily routine, expected or perceived impact on family members/carers, overall expectations, expected or perceived acceptability of the intervention, thoughts and views on the randomisation procedure, potential barriers to completing the intervention and general views or comments on cognitive training for people impacted by HD. Interviews will be transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis [40]. The data set will be searched to find repeated patterns of meaning, identifying key themes and sub-themes. We will identify contradictory data, as points of contrast as well as similarities in order to understand uptake and engagement with the intervention. Double coding will be utilised to ensure data validity, reliability and integrity. Data will be managed using the qualitative coding software NVivo. As this is a non-Clinical Trial of an Investigational Medicinal Product (non-CTIMP) feasibility study which is judged to pose minimal risk to participants, it has been judged that there is no formal need for a DMC. However, the Chief Investigator (CI) will produce regular data monitoring reports to the Centre for Trials Research (CTR) advisory board. The board will assess the data quality and monitor this throughout the study. Harms The safety of the proposed cognitive training intervention will be monitored throughout the feasibility study by recording of all adverse events (AE). Based on the use of this cognitive intervention programme in a similar patient population with other neurodegenerative diseases [24], we do not anticipate any serious adverse events (SAEs) related to the intervention. However, safety will be monitored throughout and any AEs or SAEs will be recorded using a standard template and reported in line with standard operating procedures and research ethics committee requirements. If, in the opinion of the CI, the SAE was related to the administration of any of the research procedures and was an unexpected occurrence, the CI will report this to the REC within 15 days of becoming aware of the event. If the clinician responsible for the clinical care of participants deems that it is clinically necessary to stop the intervention, the participant will be withdrawn from the intervention. However, the participant will still be invited to complete the outcome assessments. Relapse, worsening of symptoms of HD, death due to HD and hospitalisations for elective treatment of a pre-existing condition will not be reported as SAEs. MRI and incidental findings MRI scanning at 3 Tesla is a well-established and non-invasive technique for imaging the body and the brain using strong magnetic fields and low-energy radio waves. It does not involve the use of radiation. All persons entering the scanning room are screened for ferromagnetic materials or other factors which cause risk in the presence of a strong magnetic field. The scanner creates significant noise during the scan, which is minimised using earplugs. Verbal contact will be maintained between the MRI operators and the participant through the use of intercom, and a call button will be given to the participant to enable them to stop the scanning procedure at any time. A few people have reported minor side effects during MRI scanning including dizziness, mild nausea, a metallic taste in the mouth, peripheral nerve stimulation and the sensation of seeing flashing lights. These side effects, if experienced, resolve after leaving the magnet, and participants will be informed in the participant information sheet (PIS) of the MRI scanning session of these rare side effects. Some people find being inside an MR scanner claustrophobic; thus, in addition to the 3 Tesla MR machine, CUBRIC also has a ‘mock’ scanner that reproduces, as far as possible, the look and feel of the real MR machine, but without the presence of a magnetic field. Participants will be given the opportunity to lie in this ‘mock’ scanner to acclimatise in advance of the real MRI scan session. If the participant finds the experience in either scanner unpleasant, then he/she would be removed from the scanner. In some circumstances, changes in the magnetic field within the MRI scanner could make an electric current flow through some of the volunteer’s body, causing peripheral nerve stimulation; this is very rare for the 3 Tesla MRI scanner and not harmful but may be uncomfortable. If two parts of the volunteer’s body were touching (for instance legs crossed), then in very rare occasions, it is possible that an induced current may cause skin heating. Volunteers are instructed to lie with their arms to their sides and legs uncrossed, which stops this from happening. Participants will be informed that CUBRIC is a research centre and therefore cannot provide clinical diagnoses; acquired images of the brain are used for specific research purposes only and not suitable for diagnosis of pathology. However, although the pictures are not diagnostic scans, in the unlikely event of a structural abnormality being noted incidentally, a neuro-radiologist would be asked to review the scan and the clinical lead of the study will be informed. The participant’s general practitioner (GP) will then be notified by the neurologist. There may be a need for the GP to arrange for a formal diagnostic scan. The study is subject to inspection by The Jacque and Gloria Gossweiler Foundation and Health and Care Research Wales as the funding organisations. The study may also be subject to inspection and audit by Cardiff University under their remit as sponsor. Potential participants will be given as long as they need to read the PIS, consider the study and discuss it with the researchers or friends or family, as required. Informed consent will then be obtained by means of a participant dated signature and a dated signature of the person who obtained the informed consent. Participants will be asked during the consent process if their family member, friend or carer can be asked their opinions of cognitive training interventions. If participant consent is provided to ask family members, friends or carers for their opinions, they will be asked to read a separate participant information sheet (PIS) and provide their consent by means of a dated signature and a dated signature of the person who obtained the informed consent. The friend or family member will then be asked to complete a semi-structured interview similar to that described above. All participant identification and referral procedures as well as procedures for data storage, processing and management will comply with the Data Protection Act 1998. Data will be kept for 15 years in line with Cardiff University’s Research Governance Framework Regulations for clinical research. This data will be stored confidentially on password protected servers maintained on the Cardiff University Network. Data collected on paper forms will be stored in locked cabinets, and electronic data will be stored on secured computer hard drives (password protected) in a swipe card access-controlled building, in compliance with the guidelines set by the Cardiff University Research Governance Framework. The confidentiality of participants will be preserved in accordance with the Data Protection Act 1998. All participants will be allocated a unique study number identifier, and in the case of family members, friends or carers, they will be allocated a unique study number in relation to the participant. All data collected will be held in a linked anonymised form. Dissemination policy The research team are committed to disseminating the research findings to the general public and to patient groups; therefore, we will seek to present the results at patient open days, engagement events and outreach activities. Furthermore, in order to communicate the research widely, the results may be disseminated via social media, through newsletters and other patient engagement outlets in appropriate language and format for the general public to understand. If a participant indicates that they would like to be informed of the results of the study, a report of the findings will be sent to them at study closure. Where results are presented, they will always be presented in such a way that data from individual participants cannot be identified. In addition to the significant public and patient outreach dissemination, the research findings will be written up for publication in a scientific journal. The results may also be presented at scientific meetings, academic institutions or as part of public engagement and outreach events. Protocol version and amendments This publication is based on protocol version 4.0 _31.07.2017. The protocol has been written in line with both the CONSORT (Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials) statement [41] and SPIRIT (Standard Protocol Items: Recommendations for Interventional Trials) guidelines [42]. Any updated protocols will be communicated to the study team via email and telephone as appropriate. Sponsorship is provided by Cardiff University (SPON 1535-16). The study receives advisory support from The Centre for Trials Research, Cardiff University. The cognitive training intervention described in this protocol was developed based on the recommendations of the software providers (HappyNeuron) as well as considering the views of people affected by HD, their family members and friends. During this study, as well as capturing participant views in qualitative semi-structured interviews, we will also aim to consider the views of family members, friends and carers in our analysis of feasibility. Family member, friend and carer involvement in the study will be crucial in determining if this intervention is feasible and able to be completed independently. This will be vital in future studies which may seek to use computerised cognitive training that is completed in participant homes. In this feasibility study, the proposed computerised cognitive training intervention is supported by home visits and email or telephone reminders. As a result of this, any changes in outcome measures may be attributed to social interaction. Therefore, the control participants will also receive home visits, to control for increased social interaction. Furthermore, it is possible that any observed changes may be attributed to the increased use of a computer. Whilst we have not included them in this in this study, should feasibility be established in future trials, it may be prudent to include additional control groups to explore the generalised effect of computer use in this patient population. Additional control groups could also be considered to explore the effect of home visits, reminders and support provided to participants. The primary aim of this study is to determine the feasibility of conducting a randomised controlled, computerised cognitive training study for people with HD. Therefore, we will explore the willingness of eligible participants to be randomised, to receive and participate in the intervention, any potential barriers to recruitment or completion and response rates and adherence to the cognitive training programme. This feasibility study has not been powered for hypotheses testing, but the data gathered will inform the design and delivery of future larger trials, including providing vital information to inform sample size estimates. Crucial inferences will be made which will allow an estimation of parameters that can inform definitive and future trials in this specific patient population. AE: Adverse event CF: CI: CONSORT: Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials CRF: Case report forms CTR: Centre for Trials Research CUBRIC: Cardiff University Brain Research Imaging Centre fMRI: Functional magnetic resonance imaging GP: HADS: Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale IPAQ: International Physical Activity Questionnaire MBT: Moneybox test non-CTIMP: non-Clinical Trial of an Investigational Medicinal Product PIS: Participant information sheet QTUG: Quantitative timed up and go REC: SAE: Serious adverse event SPIRIT: Standard Protocol Items: Recommendations for Interventional Trials TUG: Timed up and go UHDRS: Unified Huntington’s Disease Rating Scale The study is funded by The Jacque and Gloria Gossweiler Foundation and by the Welsh Government through Health and Care Research Wales, Health Fellowship (HF-16-1152). Sponsorship is provided by Cardiff University (SPON 1535-16). The authors would also like to thank Julia Townson for her initial advice on the protocol. Subsequent to the development of this protocol, the Moneybox test (MBT) has been renamed to the Clinch Token Transfer Test (C3t) and undergone some minor amendments to develop an advanced prototype for full evaluation in a clinical setting. The study is funded by The Jacque and Gloria Gossweiler Foundation and by the Welsh Government through Health and Care Research Wales, Health Fellowship (HF-16-1152). Fully anonymised data produced as a result of this study can be made available to other researchers upon request to the Chief Investigator. EY, Chief Investigator, developed the initial project idea. The study design was formulated by EY, HF, RB, LB-H, CD, RP, GW, CM-B, AER and MB. Ongoing advisory support to the study is provided by RB, LB-H, CD, RP, GW and MB. CM-B provides supervision for the MRI component of the study. AER provides clinical support to the study. The manuscript was drafted by EY and all authors revised the manuscript and approved the final version. 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__label__wiki	0.503682	0.503682	by Braudie Blais-Billie Boris Announce New Album and North American Tour LφVE & EVφL is out on Third Man this August Boris (Miki Matsushima) Japanese metal group Boris have announced a new album. LφVE & EVφL is out in August via Jack White’s Third Man, marking their debut with the label. Third Man will also be reissuing the band’s 2003 LPs Feedbacker and Akuma no Uta later this year. According to a statement, LφVE & EVφL is a double LP that exists as “two independent works.” The forthcoming release follows 2017’s Dear. Boris will also be heading on a North American tour with New York duo Uniform starting in August. They’ll be hitting Houston, Atlanta, Nashville, Brooklyn, Chicago, Seattle, Los Angeles, and many other cities—see their full itinerary and find tickets here. (Pitchfork may earn a commission from purchases made through affiliate links on our site.) Read “Inside Jack White’s New Third Man Pressing Plant” on the Pitch. Artists In This Story Tags In This Story	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4307
__label__wiki	0.658016	0.658016	Using GPM Data to Understand Hurricanes The 2019 Atlantic "hurricane season" is officially upon us and runs through November 30th. Did you know that GPM data play a fundamental role in the ability to monitor existing storm activity such as capturing the location and intensity of rainfall inside a storm, as well as improving weather and precipitation forecasts through assimilation of instantaneous precipitation information? Here are a few applications of GPM data used to study hurricanes and how the data was then used for decision-making. Monitoring Irma with GPM This image shows rainfall analysis that was derived from GPM's GMI data on Sept. 8 as Irma moved north of Cuba. Hurricane Irma was the strongest Atlantic basin hurricane ever recorded outside the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. NASA GPM's Microwave Imager (GMI) and Dual-Frequency Precipitation Radar (DPR) instruments were used to help understand the locations and intensity of heavy precipitation within Irma. Specifically, imagery from GMI was provided to NOAA’s National Hurricane Center through NASA’s Short-term Prediction Research and Transition (SPoRT) Center to understand the state of Irma on September 8, 2017 as it moved north of Cuba. GMI observations documented an eyewall replacement cycle, which impacts the intensity and development of the storm. The 3D view of Irma from September 5th revealed powerful storms in Irma’s eyewall with estimates rates of 10.8 inches per hour. GPM's DPR uncloaked precipitation that was falling at a rate of more than 10.8 inches (274 mm) per hour in the solid ring of powerful storms within Irma's eye wall. Making Weather Predictions with GPM Data GPM data is being implemented into the National Weather Service’s (NWS) Advanced Weather Interactive Processing System (AWIPS) that enables forecasters throughout the U.S. to make weather predictions and provide rapid and highly reliable weather warnings and advisories. AWIPS is network of systems that ingest and integrate meteorological, hydrological, satellite and radar data. Furthermore, the Total Operational Weather Readiness- Satellites (TOWR-S) project, which is coupled to AWIPS display and satellite data dissemination development, is using GPM imagery and red-green-blue composites to support the National Hurricane Center (NHC) for tracking and predicting tropical weather systems. AWIPS Microwave Imagery RGB Composites (AMSR2, GPM, SSMI (F15). Credit: NWS Office of Observations. GPM Captures Hurricane Willa before Making Landfall On Sunday, October 21, 2018, the GPM Core Observatory (CO) passed over Hurricane Willa as it was moving northward toward the western coast of Mexico. The hurricane had maximum sustained winds of about 95 mph (109 kts). Since then Willa rapidly intensified with winds over 155 mph (135 kts) making it a dangerous category four storm. GPM's two instruments, GMI and DPR, were used to capture the location and intensity of rainfall, which helped define the storm structure and behavior. GMI data showed that Willa and its feeder bands were producing heavy rainfall over a large area. The location of precipitation in Willa's well defined eye wall was made evident by GPM's DPR. The DPR instrument indicated that a few powerful convective storms within Willa were dropping rain at a rate of over 6.3 inches (160 mm) per hour with storm heights reaching above 8.7 miles (14.0 km). This data was then used by the National Hurricane Center (NHC) to help understand the storms behavior and development as it approached land. GPM's GMI/ DPR provides a view of Willa’s precipitation, showing heavy precipitation over a large area (left) and a cross section of Willa using GPM’s DPR on 10/21/2018 (btm. right). Credit: Hal Pierce (SSAI/NASA GSFC). (Above right) NHC used GMI to understand Willa at https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/2018/ep24/ep242018.discus.002.shtml Extreme Precipitation from Hurricane Florence Hurricanes can produce some of the heaviest precipitation on planet earth. As a result, they often bring severe floods or flash floods. In the coastal region, hurricane precipitation exacerbates an area already suffering from storm surge. The Extreme Precipitation Monitoring System (ExPreS) is an online system that converts satellite measured precipitation accumulation from the past 1-10 days into corresponding Average Recurrence Interval (ARI) or Return-Year in real-time. In the figures, Hurricane Florence produced over 200 mm rainfall on September 14, 2018, the day it made landfall over North Carolina coastal area. The severity of this rainfall is better captured when this amount of rainfall is converted into once in 50 year event. The current system uses real-time TRMM TMPA data and will be updated with GPM IMERG when the retrospective IMERG becomes available. Top images (from left to right): 1-day precipitation accumulation from Hurricane Florence on September 14, 2018 and its corresponding average return interval (AVI or return year) on the day it made landfall in North Carolina. Bottom images (from left to right) show a two-day total precipitation accumulation and its corresponding return year. Image and caption credits: Yaping Zhou, yaping.zhou-1@nasa.gov More GPM Hurricane Resources	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4314
__label__wiki	0.915659	0.915659	À propos de Podtail Suggérer un podcast WTF with Marc Maron Podcast Marc Maron welcomes comedians, actors, directors, writers, authors, musicians and folks from all walks of life to his home for amazingly revealing conversations. Marc's probing, comprehensive interview style allows guests to express themselves in ways listeners have never heard. favorite_outline S’abonner check Se désabonner share Partager Episodes 60 Abbonés 221 access_time Derniers hearing Plus joués star_outline Plus populaire alarm_add Écoutez plus tard alarm_on Écoutez plus tard check Marquez comme terminé star_border Noter mic_none Aller au podcast Episode 1036 - Sean Lennon WTF with Marc Maron Podcast Il y a 3 jour starstarstarstarstar add Sean Lennon admits that he was naïve about his family legacy when he began a career in music. He also admits that when he received bad reviews for his first solo record, deep down he agreed with them. Sean talks with Marc about how he grew into himself as an artist and musician, how “John and Yoko” as the world sees them are different from his dad and mom as he knows them, and how the trauma of losing his father at a young age left him with memories that will never go away. They also talk about his work with Les Claypool, scoring films, and producing for other artists, including his mom. This episode is sponsored by Google Fi, Ben & Jerry's, and Stan Lee's Alliances: A Trick of Light, an Audible Original. hearing Écouter check Écoute encore play_circle_outline Continuer pause_circle_outline Écoutez... Episode 1035 - Nahnatchka Khan WTF with Marc Maron Podcast 11 Jul starstarstarstarstar_outline add When Nahnatchka Khan started developing Fresh Off The Boat for TV, she knew it was an undertaking that no one had tried for more than 20 years: A network sitcom with an Asian-American cast. And it was a premise that appealed to her as a first generation American whose parents are Iranian immigrants. Nahnatchka talks with Marc about getting her start working in kids animation, how she learned the nuts and bolts of show running, and why directing the film Always Be My Maybe is another example of centering people from diverse cultural backgrounds at the core of traditional stories. This episode is sponsored by Starbucks Tripleshot Energy and Zinus. Episodes manquant? Cliquez ici pour raffraichir la page manuellement. Episode 1034 - David Lee Roth WTF with Marc Maron Podcast 8 Jul starstarstarstarstar_outline add You only need to hear David Lee Roth talk for a few seconds to understand why he is the consummate rock and roll frontman. Diamond Dave takes Marc on a stream of consciousness ride through his past, present, future and whatever else he’s thinking about in the moment. They talk about David’s love of Big Band music, jazz guitar, his Uncle Manny, working as an EMT in the Bronx, and his serendipitous pairing with the Van Halen brothers that created musical perfection and nonstop personal animosity. This episode is sponsored by Present Company with Krista Smith, SimpliSafe, and Stamps.com. Episode 1033 - Jamie Lee WTF with Marc Maron Podcast 4 Jul starstarstarstarstar add Jamie Lee started her career in close proximity to comedy, but not actually doing it. She was working in PR at Comedy Central and found herself around a lot of comics in a professional capacity. It wasn’t long before she caught the bug and was doing open mics in New York City. Jamie tells Marc about the influence of her parents, who were photographers for ZZ Top and later rock concert promoters and club owners. She also talks about working with Pete Holmes on Crashing and why the stress, shame and tension surrounding weddings made her write a book about getting married. This episode is sponsored by Google Fi. Episode 1032 - Stephen Dorff WTF with Marc Maron Podcast 1 Jul starstarstar_halfstar_outlinestar_outline add Stephen Dorff started acting in movies before he was a teenager, but the sudden and tragic death of his brother made him contemplate leaving the business altogether. Stephen tells Marc why he stuck it out and how he wound up landing one of his most fulfilling roles of his career in True Detective. Stephen talks about the good fortune he’s had in forming relationships with an older generation of actors, like Dennis Hopper, Anjelica Huston and Jack Nicholson, and in working with a variety of great directors, like Michael Mann, Sofia Coppola, Oliver Stone, and John Waters. He also explains why he thought Blade would be the end of his career. This episode is sponsored by the Mailchimp podcast The Jump, Squarespace, and SimpliSafe. Episode 1031 - Brent Butt WTF with Marc Maron Podcast 27 Jun starstarstarstarstar add Even though Brent Butt grew up in rural Saskatchewan, his path to comedy is similar to American comics, except it was exclusively Canadian. He was a directionless youth who was taken in by comedy on Canadian TV, he booked gigs throughout the Canadian countryside to hone his act, he dealt with monopolistic club owners and did sets in lousy environments like curling rinks. It all led to him being the first native Canadian with a #1 comedy series in Canada, Corner Gas, which was turned into a hit movie and now a cartoon. Brent tells Marc about his journey, and why he has no regrets that he remains fairly anonymous in America. This episode is sponsored by Turo. Episode 1030 - Stephen Colbert Before Stephen Colbert knew what he wanted to do with his life, all he wanted was to be Hamlet. Not to play Hamlet, but to be Hamlet. That’s how he felt as an outsider teen dealing with family tragedy and deep, unaddressed grief. Stephen tells Marc how comedy gave him a refuge from sadness, how his anxiety dissipated when doing improv and sketch comedy, and how a nervous breakdown made him realign his life. They also talk about The Colbert Report, the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, and doing The Late Show in the age of Trump. This episode is sponsored by the new Mailchimp podcast The Jump, Hair Club, and Allbirds. Episode 1029 - Steve Sweeney When Steve Sweeney was growing up in Boston, the last thing he expected to become was an entertainer. He rubbed elbows with career criminals in Charlestown but somehow wound up doing summertime productions of Shakespeare plays and seeing actors like Lawrence Olivier and Christopher Plummer. Acting then led to exposure to comedy, which later led to cocaine-induced psychosis, and eventually to working in jails and with at-risk youth. Steve talks with Marc about the journey to build his act and why he enjoys producing his own projects now, including his new movie Sweeney Killing Sweeney. This episode is sponsored by Turo, Squarespace, and Starbucks Tripleshot Energy. Episode 1028 - Eve Ensler When Marc read Eve Ensler’s new book The Apology, he knew he had to speak with her right away. Not just because it was a harrowing, beautifully written, courageous book, but because Marc believes the book fully reveals the geometry of toxic masculinity. Eve and Marc have an emotional conversation about why she needed to change the narrative of being the victim to her father’s perpetrator and how she constructed an apology from her deceased father to achieve that goal. They also discuss The Vagina Monologues, the importance of art in social change, and why Eve believes cancer was the best thing that ever happened to her. This episode is sponsored by the Mailchimp podcast The Jump, Manscaped, and Stamps.com. Episode 1027 - Jamie Denbo Jamie Denbo’s life and career would not be the same were it not for her job at a Renaissance fair. Her future in comedy, improv, acting, and now writing and producing might not have taken shape if she didn’t mistakenly audition for a gig she didn’t understand. Jamie tells Marc how early life misdirection and heavy duty self-criticism changed course thanks to the honing of her improv skills at the Ren-Fair and her coming-of-age at the original UCB Theater. They also talk about Ronna and Beverly, why she doesn’t want to do on-camera work anymore, and how she turned the Renaissance fair experience into a comedy series, American Princess. This episode is sponsored by the Netflix podcast I Hate Talking About Myself, Turo, SiriusXM, and Allbirds. Episode 1026 - Mavis Staples As Mavis Staples turns 80 years old, she continues to perform and record with young musicians and producers across musical genres, just as she’s done her whole life. Mavis talks with Marc about her early years as a gospel singer with her family, the stunned reception they received when they started singing R&B songs, and the life-threatening acts of racial prejudice she encountered in the Jim Crow South. Mavis also details the important moments she shared with her father Pops Staples, Martin Luther King, Jr. and Bob Dylan. This episode is sponsored by Starbucks Tripleshot Energy. Episode 1025 - Perry Farrell WTF with Marc Maron Podcast 6 Jun starstarstarstarstar add Perry Farrell is the creative force behind Jane’s Addiction, Porno for Pyros, and the Lollapalooza festival, but while talking with Marc, it’s clear a lot of Perry's focus these days is on being a dad. Perry sees the parallels in how he was angry at his family as a teenager and how his relationship with his own teenage son is evolving. Also, Perry’s wife, Etty Lau Farrell, gets on the mic with him to talk about their collaborative project Kind Heaven, which is an album, a community event and, they hope, much more. This episode is sponsored by Baskets on FX, Turo, Allbirds, and the ZipRecruiter Job Search app. Episode 1024 - John Turturro When you talk with John Turturro, it’s quickly apparent that he’s a student of history. But John says that type of education really only happened for him once he left school and engaged with the world. His breadth of knowledge has certainly helped him as an actor and director throughout his versatile career. John and Marc talk about his fascinations, as well as what John was able to build for himself after living in a fairly volatile household. He also looks back at his experiences with longtime collaborators the Coen Brothers and Spike Lee. This episode is sponsored by Squarespace and SimpliSafe. Episode 1023 - David Letterman WTF with Marc Maron Podcast 30 May starstarstarstarstar add David Letterman started out doing the very thing that scared him to death - getting up in front of strangers and trying to make them laugh. Now after wrapping up a legendary and influential career as late night host, Dave talks with Marc about his early days at The Comedy Store, his enjoyment of the longform interviews he’s doing for Netflix, and his focus on the hard work of becoming a better person. Dave also reveals his favorite thing about his old show and the one comic he always thought was the funniest, despite everything else that happened between them. This episode is sponsored by Turo and Starbucks Tripleshot Energy. Episode 1022 - Timothy Olyphant In the last decade or so, Timothy Olyphant realized that a lot of his interests when he was younger were either impractical, ill-fitting or not very cool. He found himself going in many different directions because, as he puts it, he was scared to death of success. Timothy talks with Marc about his false starts as an artist and a standup comic before falling into acting. He explains why Deadwood was the gift that keeps on giving in terms of what he learned while making it and why he started taking a counterintuitive approach to acting in order to get out of his own head. This episode is sponsored by Leesa and Stamps.com. Episode 1021 - Duff McKagan Duff McKagan weathered the storm of rock and roll excess and now finds himself with a loving family, sobriety, a reunited band, and a new solo album. Duff takes Marc back to the days when he first met Axl Rose, when Guns N’ Roses became one of the biggest bands in the world, and when heroin decimated his entire scene and nearly ended his life. Duff also talks about the lesson he learned from Joe Strummer that still guides him today, why Slash still blows his mind, and how he keeps himself grounded by being out in the world talking with people. This episode is sponsored by Turo, Airbnb Experiences, and Starbucks Tripleshot Energy. Episode 1020 - Lisa Kudrow Of course Lisa Kudrow talks with Marc about Friends. But first they discuss several other topics Lisa knows well, including genealogy, global migration patterns, evolutionary biology, and headaches. Lisa also explains how Jon Lovitz was responsible for pushing her toward improv, how Conan O’Brien helped her put it all together, and how the cast of Friends stuck together to get what they deserved. Plus, some talk about The Comeback, Web Therapy, and her new movie, Booksmart. This episode is sponsored by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Squarespace, and Starbucks Tripleshot Energy. Episode 1019 - Kyle Mooney WTF with Marc Maron Podcast 16 May starstarstarstarstar_outline add A fateful moment in Kyle Mooney’s life was when his high school hip hop group went up in flames. Quite literally. All his equipment was destroyed in a fire. Lacking an outlet for his creativity, Kyle gravitated toward improv and making digital videos, two skills that would eventually land him on Saturday Night Live. Kyle tells Marc his SNL story (of course) and talks about the fulfillment of making his first feature film, Brigsby Bear. He also explains why he likes going for human reactions in comedy as opposed to the inherently funny ones, which explains the tone and humor of a lot of his videos. This episode is sponsored by Mark Manson's new book Everything is F*@!ed: A Book About Hope, Turo, Allbirds, and Starbucks Tripleshot Energy. Episode 1018 - Anjelica Huston If there was one constant in Anjelica Huston’s early life and career, it was the pressure to prove herself. Anjelica tells Marc about the benefits and drawbacks of being part of a Hollywood dynasty, the strains on the relationship with her father when she started making movies with him, and what it meant to her when she won an Oscar for working under her dad’s direction. They also talk about her life with Jack Nicholson, her work on Wes Anderson’s movies, and why it was difficult to make the Addams Family movies. Plus, Anjelica explains why she loves being part of the John Wick franchise. This episode is sponsored by Turo and Hair Club. Episode 1017 - Anna Konkle & Maya Erskine WTF with Marc Maron Podcast 9 May starstarstarstarstar add Anna Konkle and Maya Erskine, co-creators and stars of the middle school-based comedy PEN15, met and bonded in college. But they knew their most authentic collaboration would come from playing themselves as adolescents, which started them on a six-year journey to put together their show. Maya and Anna talk with Marc about playing their 13-year-old selves again, what it was like to redo traumatic moments of their youth, and why all the other actors are age-appropriate teens. Also, Anna explains what she learned from Marc when she worked with him and Maya details the process that led to the casting of her real mom as her TV mom. This episode is sponsored by ZipRecruiter and SiriusXM.	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4315
__label__wiki	0.550846	0.550846	Home Adventures in the DC Universe – Issue #02 – May 1997 Adventures in the DC Universe – Issue #02 – May 1997 Adventures in the DC Universe – Issue #02 (Click for Larger Cover) In Adventures in the DC Universe Issue #02 – Bombs Away, Flash combats “The Bomb Squad”, who are attempting to extort money from a wealthy businessman. Title: Bombs Away! Writer: Steve Vance Pencils: John Delaney Inks: Ron Boyd Letters: Tim Harkins Colors: Bob LeRose Assists: Frank Berrios Editor: K.C. Carlson After helping out at the scene of a second suspicious fire, Wally West is summoned by his girlfriend, reporter Linda Park, to appear in his Flash guise at a press conference she is currently covering. Apparently Winston McKinney, your stereotypically greedy businessman who is currently attempting to purchase WKEY (The station which employs Linda Park), is the victim of an extortion scheme by a group called “The Bomb Squad”, who claim responsibility for the two previous explosive fires. If their demand of $50 million dollars by midnight is not met, they will start to target McKinney. McKinney refuses to cave in to terrorists, so the Flash and Mrs. Park decide to investigate. Through their sleuthing they deduce the Bomb Squad’s next target, the historic Keystone Theater which is adjacent to the McKinney Building. Rushing to the rescue, the Flash thwarts the Bomb Squads evil plan, but was it theirs? Segue to McKinney’s penthouse apartment, where Linda Park surprises Mr. McKinney with some information she uncovered during her investigation. As the Flash speeds in to join them, Mrs. Park explains how she and the Flash discovered McKinney’s plan to build a huge office complex around the McKinney Building was being stymied by the fact that the Keystone theater was a historical landmark. Though they can’t prove McKinney’s involvement, Mrs. Park and Flash get McKinney to drop his attempt to purchase WKEY in exchange for Linda dropping the story. Still McKinney gets the last laugh, by purchasing WKEY’s main competitor instead. Quote of the Story: Flash: “..,we made McKinney sweat and we saved the Keystone! Now if I could just get the bubble gum and JuJubes off my boots..” This is an improvement over the first issue, but still a poor story. I enjoyed the retelling of Wally’s origin; it was concise and helped introduce new comers to the current incarnation of the Flash. The main problem with the story, is flatness. The characters are one-dimensional and most of the plot points are comic clichés. Still I enjoyed Delaney’s artwork, and he continues to add nice little touches in the background. If not for Delaney’s handiwork, this would be a one star issue. In Adventures in the DC Universe Issue #02 – Catwoman in “Catch as Cat Can”, Catwoman sets her sights on a rare jewel at a Gotham museum. Title: Catwoman in “Catch as Cat Can” Silent Partners: Frank Berrios & K.C. Carlson In this short story, devoid of any character dialogue, the reader follows the exploits of the Catwoman as she plies her trade, burglary. Starting at a newsstand, where she sneers at the hardworking youth and smiles at his non-working delinquent friends, Catwoman reads an article about a upcoming museum fundraiser featuring the “Cat’s Eye” diamond. Using her extraordinary acrobatic skills, Catwoman races off to promptly best the museum security and the police, steals the diamond and begins to make her escape. But as she takes flight over the rooftops with the constabularies in close pursuit, the diamond falls from her grasp and lands at the feet of the hardworking newsstand attendant. Without the time to retrieve the diamond and escape pursuit, Catwoman takes off. The next day she approaches the newsstand looking to reclaim her ill gotten gains from the attendant, but is surprised to see his delinquent friends now diligently manning his post. After angrily buying a Gotham Gazette, she deposits it in the trash after reading the headline “Kid foils Catwoman, gets $10,000 reward.” A very nice secondary story, more enjoyable than the primary one. Without a word being uttered throughout, the plot unfold by way of the characters expressions. Catwoman’s amusement with the delinquent children and disdain for the hard worker at the beginning of the story gives way to the ironic humor of the ending in which her actions unwittingly set the delinquents on the straight and narrow. A nice add on. Review By: Brian Mills	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4318
__label__wiki	0.929165	0.929165	Gun Control Protest Inside And Outside US Senate By Jacob Ogles, advocate.com Gun Control Protest Inside And Outside US Senate2017-11-092017-11-09https://popularresistance-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2017/12/popres-shorter.pngPopularResistance.Orghttps://popularresistance-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2017/11/gays-against-guns-750x563-e1510228789889-150x98.jpg200px200px Above Photo: From advocate.com Google is blocking our site. Please use the social media sharing buttons (upper left) to share this on your social media and help us break through. 7 Gays Against Guns Members Arrested After Die-In Watch the dramatic disruption, which called for Sens. Ted Cruz and Marco Rubio to do something to address gun violence. Capitol Police arrested seven members of Gays Against Guns after the group staged an ACT UP-style die-in at the Hart Senate Office Building in Washington, D.C., on Monday. The protests occurred the day after yet another mass shooting, this time leaving 26 dead at a Texas church. Members of the group today brought their disruption to the offices of Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), who each have lost constituents in mass shootings but maintain A ratings with the National Rifle Association. “We knew we were risking arrest,” said Tim Murphy, a member of GAG NYC. “But we are holding them accountable as puppets of the NRA.” Those arrested include Murphy, Mari Gustafson, John Grauwiler, Natalie James, Lewis Bossing, Michael Adolph, and John Becker. Murphy tells The Advocate that protesters conducted a die-in at the atrium for the Hart building, and video shows the individuals writhing around like wounded gunshot victims, chanting “how many more have to die.” The disruption, which included protesters loudly shouting, “You’re killing us with money from the NRA,” went on for about 10 minutes before police asked protesters to leave. When the protestors refused to do so, arrests began. Murphy says GAG members did not resist arrest. Each one was detained for a matter of hours by police and charged a $50 fine before being released. The group in advance had already made the decision to target Cruz for his extreme position on gun rights, but the failed presidential candidate became a priority focus after the nation’s most recent deadly shooting took place in Texas. Rubio also drew the ire of GAG, with members noting the Republican represented constituents killed at Pulse last year in what remains the second deadliest mass shooting in modern U.S. history and the deadliest targeting LGBT Americans. The Pulse shooting inspired the creation of Gays Against Guns, Murphy says. “We really felt as though we need to raise the volume and raise the stakes in the drum beat and demand for gun control legislation,” he says. “We are just so angry we have these mass shootings, always involving semiautomatic or automatic weapons.” That’s why the group spoke out in favor of an expansion in background checks being sponsored by Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), and an assault weapons ban by Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.). While hand-delivering these demands to Cruz’s and Rubio’s offices, GAG members chanted “Background Checks Work.” “I hope today’s action inspires the 94 percent of Americans who support background checks to hold their elected officials accountable in more demonstrative ways,” Grauwiler said. This is the second time a protest calling for gun control measures resulted in arrests at a Rubio office. After the Pulse shooting, activists participated in a “Sit-In for the 49” honoring the 49 victims of the attack, and 10 individuals were arrested there. Some of that group would later found the Orlando chapter of GAG. Calls to Rubio and Cruz from The Advocate have not been returned. Cruz has been visiting with families in Texas since the shooting, but put out a statement praising a gun owner who went after the shooter. “Every law enforcement agent I talked to said the death toll could have been much, much higher,” Cruz said in the statement. “The reason this depraved gunman finally gave up, got in the car and fled and didn’t murder more is precisely because one individual demonstrated bravery and courage. We need to be celebrating that bravery and courage. We need to be celebrating that compassion, love, and unity. Evil, tragically, will always be with us, but so will good.” Rubio tweeted prayers: “We pray for the Sutherland Springs community in this difficult time. So incredibly thankful to first responders.” Gun Control Protests Senate	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4319
__label__cc	0.616012	0.383988	Home Articles Reyhan Griffin, 14, Plays the Course With Golf Pro Rickie Fowler Reyhan Griffin, 14, Plays the Course With Golf Pro Rickie Fowler Oakland Post After Reyhan Griffin (above) finished his round at the May 1 Wells Fargo Championship, he received this souvenir of a photo with former Wells Fargo CEO Dick Kovacevich and Wells Fargo Championship 2012 winner Rickie Fowler. Photo credit: Wayne Thompson, Wells Fargo. Reyhan Griffin (left) with Rickie Fowler after a round at the championship. Photo credit: Wayne Thompson, Wells Fargo. By Ashley Chambers Chatting with golf-lover Reyhan Griffin, 14, one can notice that the young man is wise beyond his years. A 4.0 student from San Francisco’s Bayview district, he was the grand prizewinner of Wells Fargo’s Succeeding Together video essay contest, playing in the 2013 Wells Fargo Championship Pro-Am last week alongside Rickie Fowler, PGA Tour golfer and Wells Fargo Championship 2012 winner. Griffin, along with three first place winners, won a trip to Charlotte, North Carolina to attend the PGA Tour event held on May 1. Created specifically for teenage participants in The First Tee, a national youth development organization that introduces young people to the game of golf, the contest asked teens to create videos detailing how golf and the principles of The First Tee have positively impacted their lives. The First Tee has impacted the lives of more than 6.5 million young people across the nation since 1997. “Golf has taught me a lot of things,” said Griffin in his winning video, “but most important of all, I think I’ve learned what it means to live with integrity. “In golf I’m my own judge, I’m the official. Just like in life, it took me to make good decisions, and I want to make those good decisions, even when no one is watching. That’s integrity, that’s character.” Griffin, a participant of The First Tee of San Francisco, played 18 holes with Fowler at the tournament, who he describes as “fun and laidback.” “I knew this was going to be a once in a lifetime moment that I would never forget,” he said. At just 14-years old, his love for the game of golf is anything but premature. He picked up his first club at two years old and has been playing for over seven years with The First Tee. No doubt a golf pro in the making, Griffin’s confidence and persevering spirit shine through his bright smile as he prepares for his next strike, golf club in hand. “Golf gives my life focus and direction. I realize how much balance I need to put into school and golf, and that’s a very good lesson to learn at a young age so I can get prepared for life,” Griffin said. “It can teach you life skills; one is perseverance because you have to endure shots that you don’t like. If you get angry, you wont get any better on the golf course,” he said. For more information on Wells Fargo’s Succeeding Together contest and to view Griffin’s video, visit www.succeedingtogether.wellsfargobank.com. Previous articleGiants avoid sweep, win with another thriller Next articleSantana’s Quandary, Jordan Rolls Blacks, Latinos More Vulnerable to Consumer Fraud Hiring Black Census Employees in California Could Avert an Undercount in 2020 Black Entrepreneurs Raise $8 Million For Barbershop-Focused App Outdoor Afro Connects African Americans to Recreational Activities PrinterPrezz Connects Medicine and Manufacturing to Become World’s First Medifacturing Company More gentrification, Displacement in Bay Area Forecast “Creating Joyful and Effective Schools” – Educators to Speak at Oakland... Obama’s “My Brother’s Keeper” Initiative Comes to Oakland Clergy Proposal to Help Homeless Faces Another Mayoral Staff Delay Honoring the Life and Legacy of Dr. King for the New... As Syphilis Invades Rural America, A Fraying Health Safety Net is... Op-Ed: 20 Steps City Council Can Take to Stop Displacement in... Students See Stars and at “Chabot-to-Go” Night	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4321
__label__cc	0.583276	0.416724	The Objects of Our Obsession: On the E vs. P Debate In Guest Contributors by Guest Contributor May 8, 2012 Author M.J. Rose calls for reason and calm in the ongoing debate between print and digital books, noting that the two will persist and serve different needs. Romancing the Bookseller In English Language, Resources by Guest Contributor May 24, 2011 The “Dos” and “Don’ts” of working with booksellers to promote your books. DISCUSS: Authors, What are Your “Best Practices” for Working with Booksellers? By M.J. Rose When I was growing up we lived on Madison Avenue and 80th street in New York City. Often, after dinner, my mother and I would take a walk down Fifth Avenue. Our destination? The … Authors, What are Your “Best Practices” for Working with Booksellers? In Discussion by Edward Nawotka May 24, 2011 Getting noticed by booksellers is one element of successful book sales. What are your tricks and tips? By Edward Nawotka As BookExpo America kicks off today, we are reminded of its roots at the official trade show of the American Booksellers Association. This connection is still very visible at BookExpo in the many of panel discussions dedicated to bookselling, author … What Does a Book Ad Cost? And Who’s Gonna Pay? In Guest Contributors by Guest Contributor September 9, 2009 By Chris Artis In 1966, Jacqueline Susann’s tireless and often shameless promotional efforts for her classic best-seller Valley of the Dolls “created a new way of selling a novel” in the words of legendary Simon and Schuster Editor Michael Korda. Indeed, they helped propel it to the top position on bestseller lists around the world. Still, decades later, publishers generally maintain …	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4335
__label__cc	0.746901	0.253099	Captain Spirit - How to Stop the Beer Cans Here’s how to prevent dad’s beer cans from taking over in The Awesome Adventures of Captain Spirit. Published June 29, 2018, 4:49 p.m. about The Awesome Adventures of Captain Spirit by Larryn Bell Prima Game of the Week \| The Awesome Adventures of Captain Spirit See the world through the eyes of a young superhero in The Awesome Adventures of Captain Spirit. On the to-do list that Captain Spirit has made for himself in The Awesome Adventures of Captain Spirit, there is a task that involves trying to stop the beer cans from taking over. For this task, Captain Spirit turns boring housework into fun target practice in just a few steps. Follow the guide below to find out how to stop the beer cans and mark off another item on Captain Spirit’s list of objectives. How to Stop the Beer Cans in Captain Spirit Dad’s beer cans are starting to clutter up the kitchen, and Chris takes notice. It’s up to Captain Spirit to stop the beer cans before they begin to take over. First, start by collecting the beer cans off the kitchen counter and placing them into the recycling bin on the floor. The bin is quite full, so it’s time to take it outside. Interact with the recycling bin and select the Take Out option to have Captain Spirit put the bin out onto the porch. Now, go to the door and exit the house, then interact with the recycling bin once more and select the Set Up Range prompt. After Captain Spirit finishes setting up the beer can range on the porch, it’s time for a bit of target practice. Aim the dotted line so that the bottom triangle is over the stack of beer cans, then throw a snowball to knock them out. Continue lobbing snowballs until all the cans are knocked down. That’s it! Completing this activity will checkmark the beer can objective on Captain Spirit’s checklist of Awesome Things to Do. To mark off other tasks on his to-do list, visit our guides on where to find all heroes and villains in Captain Spirit as well as how to decode the map and navigate the Maze of Doom in The Awesome Adventures of Captain Spirit. Hear about the latest The Awesome Adventures of Captain Spirit guides, exclusive content, and amazing offers! Larryn Bell Larryn is a content creator on YouTube and a full-time writer who has written guides and editorial features for various gaming websites. She can often be found at small gatherings preaching the gospel of The Witcher 3. Captain Spirit - How to Tame the Water Eater Find out how to tame the menacing Water Eater in The Awesome Adventures of Captain Spirit. Captain Spirit - Where to Find All Heroes and Villains Here’s where to find Captain Spirit’s team of superheroes and Mantroid’s supervillains in The Awesome Adventures of Captain Spirit. Captain Spirit - How to Defeat the Snowmancer Defeat the villainous Snowmancer and complete another checklist item in The Awesome Adventures of Captain Spirit. Captain Spirit - All Costume Part Locations Where to find all the parts to complete Captain Spirit’s costume in The Awesome Adventures of Captain Spirit. Captain Spirit - Where to Find the Garage Key Find the garage key to open the garage in The Awesome Adventures of Captain Spirit.	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4338
__label__cc	0.535412	0.464588	Archive for the ‘Mary Astor’ Tag The Great Lie (1941): I Ain’t Gonna Lie on Maggie’s Farm No More 2 comments Rich country girl, Maggie (Bette Davis) loves Peter (George Brent). Peter loves Maggie, but he can’t commit. In a weak and drunken moment, he marries Sandra (Mary Astor), a globe-trotting concert pianist. She’s sort of awful though so when a paperwork glitch nullifies their marriage, Peter marries Maggie. “You’ll do.” All is happiness and light until Sandra drops a bombshell—she’s pregnant. When Peter’s plane is lost during a mapping expedition to the Amazon, Maggie has an idea. She’ll take Sandra to a secluded cabin where she’ll have her baby privately, then Maggie will claim the child as her own so the kid has a dad, at least on paper. The two women travel to Arizona, where Maggie takes care of the difficult Sandra during her pregnancy. When Maggie returns, she has a new baby with Peter’s name. “No, I don’t have any eights!” Despite her heartbreak at the loss of her husband, Maggie soldiers on and focuses on raising her son, who she names Peter, after his father. Maggie is a wonderful mother and young Pete thrives with the help of Maggie and maid superwoman, Violet (Hattie McDaniel). Things proceed swimmingly until Peter returns from the dead and eats the rest of the cast. I’m kidding, but that would be an interesting plot twist, wouldn’t it? “This is a human child, right?” Peter comes back to Maggie and is overjoyed to see her and to meet his son. He’s a loving and dedicated husband and father and he, Maggie, Young Pete, and Violet live happily ever after. Not so fast, bub. Sandra finds out Peter is back from the jungle and she wants him AND her baby. During a tense visit to Maggie’s farm, Maggie has a head full of ideas that are drivin’ her insane. Sorry, I couldn’t resist. “Don’t trust her, Pete.” Anyway, Sandra threatens to tell Peter that Young Pete is hers, claiming Peter will leave Maggie since the baby is the only thing holding their marriage together. This is a film made in 1941 in which a boozy career woman has a child out of wedlock, so you can guess who wins. The Great Lie is a terrific melodrama with great performances by all the leads. Bette Davis is lovely as the good girl with confidence issues. In the beginning of the film, Maggie’s idea of domestic bliss is a little too dull for Peter. He’s not ready to settle down. Brent plays Peter as a bit of a playboy, but overall, he’s a decent guy. When he finds out his marriage to Sandra isn’t legal, he offers to remarry her. Of course, he wants her to give up a gig to do it. You could call that dirty pool, but she wants him to give up his job to follow her around while she plays concerts too. It’s more like the two alpha personalities just don’t mesh. I like how he handles the news about Young Pete, too. “I double dog dare ya!” Davis and Brent are good together. She always said Brent was her favorite leading man and the two were close on and off the set. They had a passionate affair, but stayed friends even after it ended, making eleven films together. “Race ya!” Brent is more talented than he gets credit for because he makes it look easy. He excels at playing the cad with a heart of gold. Clark Gable does that too, but I’ve always preferred Brent. He’s smoother and doesn’t wear his emotions on his sleeve. Keeping his thoughts and feelings closer to the vest makes him more mysterious and more appealing. “It’s sweet of you to wait four years for me to commit, then watch me marry and impregnate someone else. Is supper ready?” Mary Astor, as Sandra, is fantastic! She’s a demanding prima donna with genuine talent who wants everything done yesterday. She’s accustomed to getting her own way and is put out when anyone challenges her. She’s not evil though. Astor could easily have played this as a one note character, but she gives Sandra depth. Maybe the marriage wouldn’t have lasted, but not because Sandra doesn’t love Peter. When Sandra sees Maggie, Peter, and Young Pete living so happily together, she wonders if she’s made the right choice. The forties were not exactly the ‘have it all’ decade. Sandra has chosen a career and perhaps she has moments in hotel rooms in Sydney or Budapest when she regrets not having a family. The audience sees flashes of these thoughts as Sandra holds her baby. “TA DA!” The Great Lie is fleshed out by a cadre of veteran character actors. Lucile Watson, Jerome Cowen, Grant Mitchell, Russell Hicks, and the charismatic, Hattie McDaniel lend their enormous talents to the film. Warner Brother had an impressive well of talent to draw from and that’s obvious when watching any film they made, especially in the 1940s. “You’re paying me scale?” Edmund Goulding directed The Great Lie and two other Davis/Brent vehicles, Dark Victory and The Old Maid, along with a gang of other films, including the amazing, and completely different, Nightmare Alley and The Razor’s Edge. This is a low-key melodrama with sympathetic characters who act like normal, flawed human beings. There are some noble moments, but overall, the story, written by Lenore Coffee from Polan Banks’ novel, is realistic. Sure, everyone is rich and no one has to go to the bathroom, but it’s a movie. The film also looks and sounds great thanks to Orry-Kelly’s gowns and Max Steiner’s music. I was thinking this plot could have taken an entirely different path. What if Maggie brought Sandra out to Arizona to steal her baby, kill her, and bury her under a cactus? Then, Peter comes back to Maggie after fighting off piranha and anacondas and junk and finds out he has a baby. He’s thrilled until detectives come calling at the farm asking where Maggie was for nine months a while back. Oh, and why were she and Sandra going to Arizona anyway? When a thirsty man, stranded in the desert, cuts open a saguaro to survive, he notices a woman’s shoe poking out of the dry ground. After he makes it back to civilization, he tells the story to a doctor with ties to law enforcement. His friend, a local deputy with political aspirations, digs up he body, connects the dots, and bingo! Maggie’s doin’ hard time and Peter’s looking for wife #3. “These new taffeta jail duds are stunning.” I digress. The Great Lie is an entertaining story made by a talented director, a veteran cast of lead and character actors, and produced at the height of Warner Brothers’ powers. This is a good one. Posted February 28, 2018 by Kerry Fristoe in Reviews Tagged with 1940s films, Bette Davis, drama, Edmund Goulding, George Brent, Grant Mitchell, Hattie McDaniel, Jerome Cowen, Lenore Coffee, Lucile Watson, Mary Astor, Max Steiner, melodrama, Orry-Kelly, Polan Banks, Russell Hicks, The Great Lie, Warner Brothers	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4345
__label__wiki	0.53534	0.53534	The Wallace Foundation The Wallace Foundation Releases Written and Video Accounts of Denver Center Theatre Company’s Efforts to Attract Millennial Audiences Denver story is third in the Building Audiences for Sustainability (BAS) Stories series to learn how arts organizations attract and retain desired audiences The Wallace Foundation today released the third installment in its Building Audiences for Sustainability (BAS) Storiesseries that looks at preliminary efforts of performing arts organizations to attract and retain new audiences in ways that also contribute to their financial health. The written and video accounts of the Denver Center Theatre Company, a division of the Denver Center for the Performing Arts (DCPA), traces the trials, errors, analysis, and improvement in attracting millennials through experiential or “immersive” theater. The story, titled Denver Center for the Performing Arts Is Cracking the Millennial Code...One Step at a Time, is written by Sarosh Syed and produced by Stephanie Carter of WNET, and is available at wallacefoundation.org/denvercenter. The story demonstrates how the DCPA Theatre Company has used market research to attract younger attendees, better reflecting the demographic breakdown of the Denver region. The average age of a single ticket buyer for the DCPA is 50; for a subscriber it is 63, while millennials, defined as ages 21–37 in 2018, account for 24% of the population in Denver. Denver Center hypothesized that experiential theater—productions that allow performers and audiences to interact with one another in an immersive environment—would appeal to younger audiences. So as part of Off-Center, an offshoot of the company devoted to programming aimed at adventurous and millennial audiences, they began to experiment with small, interactive performances in non-traditional spaces. Some of Off-Center’s major immersive productions include: Sweet & Lucky (May–August 2016), Travelers of the Lost Dimension (May 2017) and The Wild Party (October 2017). “Off-Center was created as a theatrical test kitchen, so experimenting and investigating new ideas is in our DNA,” said Charlie Miller, Associate Artistic Director of DCPA Theatre Company and Curator of Off-Center. “Our ability to learn from each new production through market research, sales data, and audience feedback has been critical in helping us make strategic decisions for continuous improvement.” “What we learned from Sweet & Lucky, our first large-scale immersive production, carried over to Travelers of the Lost Dimension, which in turn informed our decisions for The Wild Party. This information is proving invaluable as we determine not only what type of experiences excite millennial audiences but also how to make this programming sustainable in the long run. After each production, Denver Center staff analyzed ticket sales and conducted focus groups and audience surveys, tracking average age and the “net promoter score,” a measure of audiences’ eagerness to recommend the show to others. Sweet & Lucky, one of the earliest experiential productions, took audiences on a journey through a transformed 16,000-foot warehouse, allowing audience members to interact with actors as they moved through the multi-room space, where no two experiences of the show would be alike. After the show, audiences mingled in a bar built by Denver Center. Every performance sold out, and 35% of the audience was under 34 years old, exceeding the average 16% of under 34-year-olds that Denver Center shows drew in 2016. However, the elaborate production required a year and a half of preparation, pushing Off-Center’s artistic and logistical limits farther than any of its shows had before, and ticket revenues covered less than half of the production costs. For the next production, Travelers of the Lost Dimension, they attempted a similar experience with a lower budget—in a facility that required no new construction and no elaborate props or decorations. Audiences, however, did not react well to the play’s looser narrative. The net promoter score, on a scale of -100 to 100, was -23, compared to 85 for Sweet & Lucky. Audience surveys pointed to a desire for a deeper experience. Off-Center applied the lessons for Sweet & Lucky and Travelers in its next production. They chose The Wild Party, a pre-existing play with a clear narrative, and used a stationary location with a capacity for a larger audience. This allowed them to reduce production costs and increase potential ticket revenues, while maintaining the immersive experiences that younger audiences prefer. Off-Center continues to experiment with experiential performances, building on insights from market research to conceive and implement each new production. They consider this process of learning and adjusting essential as they continue to balance creativity and audience excitement with financial sustainability, helping Denver Center reach its goals of building a younger audience. By capturing insights, the BAS Stories series aims to reveal the underlying learning processes, including the critical use of market research, that help arts organizations be more effective in building audiences, and in ways that can be sustained. The written story can be read, and the video viewed, on the Wallace website. In addition, discussion guides produced by national arts service organizations are offered to aid organizations and arts professionals in thinking through similar strategies for their own audience-building efforts: Ballet Austin:Expanding Audiences for Unfamiliar Works (story/video; discussion guide, by Dance USA.) Can the City’s Boom Mean New Audiences for the Seattle Symphony? (story/video; discussion guide, by the League of American Orchestras) Denver Center for the Performing Arts Is Cracking the Millennial Code...One Step at a Time will be available Spring 2018 (story/video; discussion guide to be available Spring 2018, created by the Theatre Communications Group) Ballet Austin, DCPA Theatre Company, and Seattle Symphony are three of the 25 performing arts organizations participating in Building Audiences for Sustainability (BAS), the foundation’s six-year, $52-million initiative aimed at developing practical insights into how arts organizations can successfully expand audiences. Independent researchers commissioned by the foundation are documenting and analyzing the work across the cohort to provide lessons, ideas, and information for the entire field; published reports will be publicly available starting in late 2018. For more information on Building Audiences for Sustainability or on other Wallace arts initiatives, please visit: www.wallacefoundation.org. Other news about The Wallace Foundation Written and Video Accounts Depict How World Music/CRASHArts Is Building Loyalty and Brand Recognition in Boston https://resnicow.com/client-news/written-and-video-accounts-depict-how-world-musiccrasharts-building-loyalty-and-brand Opera Theatre of Saint Louis’ Efforts to Reach Younger, More Diverse Audiences Explored in Written and Video Accounts https://resnicow.com/client-news/opera-theatre-saint-louis%E2%80%99-efforts-reach-younger-more-diverse-audiences-explored-written The Wallace Foundation Names Bahia Ramos as New Director of Arts https://resnicow.com/client-news/wallace-foundation-names-bahia-ramos-new-director-arts The Wallace Foundation Releases Written and Video Accounts of the Seattle Symphony’s Efforts to Engage New Seattle Residents https://resnicow.com/client-news/wallace-foundation-releases-written-and-video-accounts-seattle-symphony%E2%80%99s-efforts-engage The Wallace Foundation Releases Video and Written Accounts of Ballet Austin’s Market Research Targeting New Audiences https://resnicow.com/client-news/wallace-foundation-releases-video-and-written-accounts-ballet-austin%E2%80%99s-market-research	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4351
__label__cc	0.740239	0.259761	Tag: knowledge share Richard Crookes ConstructionsCompany Newsknowledge share Women’s Forum – ‘because of her, we can’ ‘Because of her, we can’ – the NAIDOC Week 2018 theme was the inspiration behind July’s RCC Women’s Forum. We were lucky enough to be able to explore the theme of ‘Because of her, we can’ through the words of Sandra Gadd and the modern native bush tucker cuisine of Jo-Ann from Goanna Hut. We all then enjoyed a training session with Vanessa from Learning Circle Co, who took us through an interactive course on identifying and chasing career goals and building our personal brand. Our series of Women in Construction Forums provide employees with a chance to share knowledge, learn and develop… over lunch (of course)! It’s also an important way for us to acknowledge the contribution and achievements of our staff and thank them for their dedication! RCC’s Impact on the Aged Care and Retirement Living landscape Economic, social and cultural outcomes for providers and residents RCC has a long history in the design and construction of specialised social infrastructure. In 2015 we invested further in RCC’s specialised Aged Care and Retirement Living division, matching our capabilities in the health and social housing sectors. Our subsequent 300% growth in aged care delivery is recognition of our ability to deliver quality, state of the art facilities which still feel like home and provide better living for residents. RCC has been building for 42 years and innovating in the aged care and retirement living sector since 1993, recognising the mounting demographic and cost pressures of infrastructure and care provider availability. “To meet Australian aged care demand we need to deliver a 120 bed aged care facility every two weeks for the next 10 years. We appreciate the need for sustainable solutions and quality facilities and we share the age care sectors commitment to providing the senior members of our community with the security of a comfortable home and quality of life” Martin Patience- Joint GM, Aged Care & Retirement Living, RCC Having successfully delivered a range of Residential Aged Care Facilities, Independent Living Units and Retirement Villages in NSW and ACT metropolitan and regional areas, RCC underwrites the success of major new facilities and the necessary transformation of existing homes to emulate the amenity and aesthetics of today. We are proud of the projects we have delivered to date and enjoy reflecting on our handover of facilities that our clients are proud of, as much as we are as well as the contribution we have made to those older Australian’s who now call them home. Our project team’s partner with leading aged care and retirement living operators, experienced design teams and industry specialists, looking for opportunities to speed up, go modular, prefabricate and achieve high levels of quality, amenity and service from every dollar spent. “Designing and delivering state of the art aged care and retirement homes merge the preventative, therapeutic and rehabilitation needs of residents in a secure, comfortable, home environment allowing them to stay active, happy and connected to their families. Innovative technology and construction services ensure our projects meet their current and future needs” Rod Burger- Joint GM, Aged Care & Retirement Living, RCC Our highly experienced and focused aged care team are supported by the substantial financial backing and delivery systems of a long established multi-sector construction business. Looking forward, our client teams and residents can continue to count on our skills and support to further evolve and enjoy the journey of working with RCC. “SummitCare Baulkham Hills brings to life everything residents and families could wish for in a home… To RCC, it has been an absolute pleasure, and an outstanding result. You have been a delight to work with and I couldn’t recommend you more highly” SummitCare, Baulkham Hills Peter Wohl – Owner and Director, Summitcare “We are most pleased to be associated with Richard Crookes Constructions as all aspects of the projects are moving in the right direction. Drayton House is approximately half way through the construction program with good progress to date. Attention to detail and selection of sub-contractors is impressive” Drayton House Markam Ralph – Director- Morrison Design Partnerships Architects Sydney Build Expo 2018: BIM & Digital Construction Summit RCC’s very own Digital Design Manager, Tyrone Padayachee, is presenting at this years Sydney Build Expo! Check out Tyrone’s presentation on the topic of ‘BIM for Contractors. What does that mean and how has it changed our approach to project delivery’ this Friday, 16th of March from 12:30pm. ‘BIM for Contractors. What does that mean and how has it changed our approach to project delivery’ Tyrone Padayachee – RCC Digital Design Manager Venue: Workshop Area 02, Royal Hall of Industries, 1 Driver Avenue, Moore Park, NSW 2021 Time: 12:30pm – 13:20pm The RCC team is excited to be presenting at the BIM & Digital Construction Summit and to be attending the entire 2 day Build Expo event. We are committed to making an important industry contribution to ensure that Australian construction remains as an innovative and diverse industry. Sydney Build Expo 2018 Agenda Take a look at the full range of events, workshops and presentations here: Sydney Build 2018 Agenda Haven’t yet registered to attend? Visit SydneyBuildExpo.com to collect your free event pass 2018 RCC Cadet ‘Step Up’ Award Winner Congratulations to Olivia Rorke, winner of the 2018 RCC Cadet ‘Step Up’ Award. The Cadet ‘Step Up’ Award promotes employee contribution and gives the lucky winner an invaluable opportunity to secure one-on-one mentoring with a member of the RCC Executive Team. Olivia’s hard work on her research paper into ‘Corporate Social Responsibility in the Construction Industry’ has earned her personal mentoring with our CEO, George Bardas. George is looking forward to the opportunity to help Olivia shape her career within the industry they both love. “The Step Up Award is a really valuable RCC initiative; it gives our cadets an opportunity to make a contribution to the business early in their career, by researching and preparing a paper on a new technology, market trend or innovation. Olivia is a bright individual and a worthy recipient of this award for her submission on RCC’s Corporate Social Responsibility Strategy. Her passion and diligence is clear and I look forward to taking her on as a mentee” George Bardas- CEO Well done Olivia. This award is very much deserved and we look forward to hearing from yourself and George over the next 6 months! Womens Forum Series RCC’s first Women’s Forum, based on the topic of ‘resilience’, featured a keynote speech from a strong and inspirational Australian philanthropist, Susan Alberti. Female staff came together from across NSW and ACT to listen, discuss, network and of course… lunch. The RCC Women’s Forum Series is designed to provide our female staff with the opportunity to network, share knowledge and access personal and professional development in a supportive, relaxed and fun environment. RCC understands the need to support our staff and the wider industry to ensure women in construction have access to a level playing field and can be professionally and personally successful. Laura Durkan, Head of Human Resources, says she feels the Women’s Forum Series is a critical element in delivering on RCC’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. “We are grateful to have an incredible cohort of women working for RCC. This is an opportunity for us to show them how valued their input into the day-to-day and long term strategic operations of our business is” RCC’s commitment to diversity is about more than fairness and retaining our fantastic staff; we believe that diversity breeds innovation and drives the growth of a stronger RCC and construction industry. Laura says the decision to choose ‘resilience’ as the theme for the first Womens Forum was inspired by “the stories of some of RCC’s strongest female leaders and the fierce dedication, self-belief and mental toughness which has supported them throughout their careers. We wanted to give the women in our business an opportunity to share their personal and industry experience and find strength in that shared knowledge and support network”. The key note speech, workshops and presentations on the day inspired a robust discussion around the current state of ‘women in construction’ and will inform the organisations action plan to work toward a diverse and inclusive industry. We sincerely thank Susan Alberti who joined us on the day to share her incredible story. Her journey and resilience under testing circumstances is inspirational and speaks to her guts and determination. As the Women’s Forum was structured as a lunch and learn event, the day would not have been complete without the addition of a delicious lunch, supplied by the skillful Little Jones Food Co. NAWIC Site Tour of UTS Last week we welcomed NAWIC members and guests to the University of Technology, Sydney (UTS) for a site tour of the UTS Central project. RCC staff delivered a presentation on the unique challenges of the project and the intelligent solutions which have and will be implemented to deliver this landmark development. Continue reading “NAWIC Site Tour of UTS” →	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4356
__label__wiki	0.880889	0.880889	Usain Bolt falls to the track injured in final career race A heartbreaking finish to Usain Bolt's athletics career at the IAAF World Championships August 12th, 2017 by Tim Huebsch \| Posted in London 2017 \| Tags: 2017 IAAF World Championships, london 2017, Running News, usain bolt After 16 years of competing on the international stage, fans of athletics will likely never see Usain Bolt run another competitive track race. The Jamaican star and eight-time Olympic champion competed as part of his country’s 4x100m relay team at the London 2017 IAAF World Championships. Bolt, anchoring the team, pulled up and fell to the ground in agony as there was no heartwarming ending to his athletics career. He was clutching his leg on the ground. The Canadian Press writer Lori Ewing reports that Bolt was able to walk off the track under his own power. The injury was later reported to be a hamstring cramp. Bolt walked off the track, doesn't look too serious. Man, these worlds have been full of some crazy upsets. #London2017 — Lori Ewing (@Ewingsports) August 12, 2017 Jamaica team doctor on Usain Bolt's injury: "It's cramp in his left hamstring but a lot of pain is from disappointment from losing the race" — Athletics Weekly (@AthleticsWeekly) August 12, 2017 He finishes the 2017 IAAF World Championships with a bronze medal in the men’s 100m, his final-ever individual track race. Great Britain won the men’s 4x100m relay in a fantastic race for the home team, winning in front of a packed crowd at the London Olympic Stadium. The gold-medal-winning time was 37.47 as the United States finished second and Japan finished third. Canada, without the likes of Andre De Grasse, finished sixth overall in 38.59. All eyes in the stadium are on Usain Bolt as his teammates help him uphttps://t.co/qckJ2jk42M pic.twitter.com/lFPMAV6O76 — CBC Olympics (@CBCOlympics) August 12, 2017 Jamaica does not finish the men's 4x100m relay as Usain Bolt pulls up with an injury Details: https://t.co/aVngpMFnMJ pic.twitter.com/1hRChT2NCI The 30-year-old Bolt first competed at the international level at the 2001 IAAF World Youth Championships in Hungary. Over his career, Bolt has amassed multiple world records, including 9.58 in the 100m, 19.19 in the 200m and a partial owner of the 4x100m relay record of 36.84. Usain Bolt falls to the track injured in final career race #London2017 #IAAFWorlds https://t.co/6tCf2UacnQ pic.twitter.com/UXG12XXs48 — CanadianRunning (@CanadianRunning) August 12, 2017 1 GREAT BRITAIN & N.I. GBR 37.47 WL 0.124 2 UNITED STATES USA 37.52 SB 0.155 3 JAPAN JPN 38.04 SB 0.173 4 PR OF CHINA CHN 38.34 0.151 5 FRANCE FRA 38.48 0.151 6 CANADA CAN 38.59 0.156 7 TURKEY TUR 38.73 0.151 JAMAICA JAM DNF 0.149 Report error or omission Joie says: We will rise again! Usain Bolt will always be my hero.	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4360
__label__wiki	0.735527	0.735527	Wed, July 17, 6 pm — Special tour of Scotiabank Photography Award: Moyra Davey with Gaëlle Morel and Brian Sholis. RYERSON IMAGE CENTRE Peter Higdon Research Centre The Ric Youth in Focus Sign-up for our mailing list Ryerson Image Centre to showcase remarkable private photography collection of Toronto’s Tanenbaum family This winter, the Ryerson Image Centre (RIC) presents more than 200 photographs from the extraordinary and eclectic collection of Howard and Carole Tanenbaum. The exhibition, True to the Eyes, highlights a range of humanistic photographs in many genres, from anonymous vernacular imagery to masterworks by notable photographers. The new exhibition season launches with a party, free and open to the public, on January 23rd, at 6 pm. Gaëlle Morel appointed Chevalier de l'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres We are pleased to announce that RIC Exhibitions Curator, Gaëlle Morel, has been granted the rank of Chevalier de l'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres (Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters) by the French government. This tremendous honour recognizes individuals who have distinguished themselves by their creations in artistic or literary fields, or by contributing to the influence of Arts and Letters in France and around the world. Call for Submissions: Noon Time Collection Talk Series Deadline: October 15, 2018 The Ryerson Image Centre invites current Ryerson University students or recent alumni (graduated within five years from any Ryerson program) to submit proposals to present a lecture as part of the RIC’s Noon Time Collection Talk series. Located in the RIC’s research centre, these 40-minute talks are an opportunity for the public to view and learn about objects from the RIC’s vast collection of photographs and related ephemera. The Ryerson Image Centre’s new exhibition explores famous Life magazine photo essay by Gordon Parks, opening September 12 This fall, the Ryerson Image Centre (RIC) presents an exhibition centred around a seminal photo essay by pioneering African-American photographer Gordon Parks—and the extraordinary chain of events it prompted. The exhibition, along with a full season of new shows, launches with a party, free and open to the public, on September 12, 6:00–8:00 pm. The Ryerson Image Centre’s new exhibition explores famous Life magazine photo essay by Gordon Parks This fall, the Ryerson Image Centre (RIC) will present an exhibition centred around a seminal photo essay by pioneering African-American photojournalist Gordon Parks—and the extraordinary chain of events it prompted. Gordon Parks: The Flávio Story provides an in-depth look at this multi-decade saga in the context of Cold War politics in the United States and Brazil, and at the inner workings and cultural force of Life, the “Great American Magazine.” The exhibition launches with a party, free and open to the public, on September 12, 6:00–8:00 pm. This National Indigenous Peoples Day, the Ryerson Image Centre showcases three contemporary Indigenous artists This National Indigenous Peoples Day, the Ryerson Image Centre (RIC) is pleased to present work by three contemporary Indigenous artists: Shelley Niro, Nadia Myre and Scott Benesiinaabandan. Collectively, these artists explore notions of culture, identity and the complex colonial histories of Indigenous people using photography, film and new media. All exhibitions launched during the official kick-off party for the Scotiabank CONTACT Photography Festival on April 27 and will remain on view until August 5, 2018. The Ryerson Image Centre showcases three contemporary Indigenous artists at this year’s Scotiabank CONTACT Photography Festival This season, the Ryerson Image Centre (RIC) is pleased to present work by three contemporary Indigenous artists: Shelley Niro, Nadia Myre and Scott Benesiinaabandan. All exhibitions launch during the official kick-off party for the Scotiabank CONTACT Photography Festival, free and open to the public, on April 27, 2018, 7:00 – 11:00 pm. The Ryerson Image Centre kicks off the Scotiabank CONTACT Photography Festival, April 27, 7:00–11:00 pm The Ryerson Image Centre (RIC) will kick off the Scotiabank CONTACT Photography Festival with the official launch party, open to the public, on April 27, 2018, 7:00 – 11:00 pm. In addition to acting as a host institution for the Festival, the RIC is proud to present the Scotiabank Photography Award exhibition, this year featuring the work of Shelley Niro, 2017 winner of the prestigious award. Alongside this show, the RIC will showcase a video installation by multidisciplinary artist Nadia Myre. In the same building, the annual year-end exhibition Maximum Exposure presents work by the best young emerging Canadian and international artists at Ryerson University’s School of Image Arts. The Ryerson Image Centre launches new book with the MIT Press at upcoming photography symposium On March 16 and 17, the Ryerson Image Centre (RIC) hosts the latest in its acclaimed series of academic symposia on photography. At this two-day event, the RIC will launch the second book in the institution’s imprint with the MIT Press: The Eye of History: When Images Take Positions by Georges Didi-Huberman. In memory of Terry Dennett, British activist, community workshop organizer, and photographer We are saddened to share news of the passing of British activist, community workshop organizer, and photographer Terry Dennett (1938–2018). While Terry spent most of his professional life as staff photographer at the London Zoo, his extracurricular photographic practice was inextricably linked to the work of feminist photographer Jo Spence (1934–1992). Collaborate with us at the Ryerson Image Centre This season, the Ryerson Image Centre (RIC) invites visitors to take an active role in its new exhibition, Collaboration. A Potential History of Photography. This experimental show suggests that photography—a medium traditionally understood as one dominated by singular creative adventurers—is better defined by collaboration and interaction. Designed to be open-ended, Collaboration invites visitors to participate in the reshaping of photographic meanings through an expansive program of conversations, encounters, and workshops. The Ryerson Image Centre challenges the status quo with a series of experimental shows, opening January 24 This winter, the Ryerson Image Centre (RIC) presents a series of experimental shows confronting the traditional power dynamic between photographer and subject. Collaboration: A Potential History of Photography suggests that photography—a medium traditionally understood as one dominated by singular creative adventurers—is better defined by collaboration and interaction. longside this exhibition, Jim Goldberg’s seminal series Rich and Poor (1977 to 1985) exemplifies this relationship by pairing his portraits with revealing self-observations from his subjects, inscribed directly on the photographs. Daily tours at 2:30 pm 33 Gould Street Toronto ON M5B 1W1 ric@ryerson.ca Tuesday: 11AM – 6PM Friday: 11AM – 6PM Sunday: 12PM – 5PM Research Centre Hours please check your email for the confirmation email	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4363
__label__wiki	0.533917	0.533917	At Wheaton summit, prominent evangelicals share stories of sexual abuse Emily McFarlan Miller emmillerwrites Jenny Hwang, from left, Tammy Schultz, Nancy Nealious and Ed Stetzer participate in a panel discussion at Wheaton College on Dec. 13, 2018, during a summit on sexual abuse and misconduct. RNS photo by Emily McFarlan Miller WHEATON, Ill. (RNS) — For popular Bible teacher Beth Moore, the church always has been a safe harbor. That was especially true when she was growing up. Church was a place where she could escape from the sexual abuse she experienced at home, she said. “I’ve seen glimpses with my own eyes what a church can do for victims of sexual abuse and assault. I am a survivor,” Moore said. Moore was a featured speaker at a one-day summit on sexual abuse and harassment Thursday (Dec. 13) at Wheaton College in suburban Chicago — and one of many who described their own experiences of abuse and harassment. Some shared their stories of sexual abuse for the first time, including bestselling Christian author and pastor Max Lucado and child advocate Kelly Rosati. RELATED: Ending the year #MeToo went to church, Wheaton summit to discuss evangelical response “We’re trying to help amplify a conversation others have started,” said Ed Stetzer, executive director of the Billy Graham Center at Wheaton, which organized the summit. Evangelicals have not always done a good job of listening to survivors, Stetzer told attendees at the summit, and “we want to do better.” “We’ve tried to listen to survivors today — you’ve noticed the overwhelming theme was people who have walked through this journey.” Kelly Rosati speaks at Wheaton College on Dec. 13, 2018, during a summit on sexual abuse and misconduct. RNS photo by Emily McFarlan Miller Nancy Beach presents at Wheaton College on Dec. 13, 2018, at the summit on sexual abuse and misconduct. RNS photo by Emily McFarlan Miller About 750 people registered for the event, according to organizers. Another 300 signed up to watch the livestream, and more than 40 groups livestreamed the event, including churches, universities and the headquarters of the Evangelical Free Church of America. It comes as a survey from Nashville, Tenn.-based LifeWay Research earlier this year found that about two-thirds of Protestant pastors say members of their congregation have experienced sexual or domestic violence. Fewer than half of those pastors said their training equipped them to address the issue. At the summit, prominent evangelical Christians from a number of denominations urged churches to educate themselves about mandated reporting laws in their states regarding sexual abuse, pressed for more female leaders in the church and denounced abuses of power by church leadership. Attendees join in a song at Wheaton College on Dec. 13, 2018, during a summit on sexual abuse and misconduct. RNS photo by Emily McFarlan Miller And a panel of trauma and counseling experts from the college shared a clinical understanding of how trauma affects survivors and how the church can help them heal. They stressed the importance of believing survivors when they come forward and simply sitting with them in their sorrow. “We expect someone who’s experienced trauma just to get up and be OK, and because things have been shattered, it’s going to take time to put them back together,” said Nancy Nealious, a trauma recovery and licensed clinical psychologist in the Wheaton College Counseling Center. In his closing remarks, Lucado revealed he was sexually abused as a child by a community leader. That’s why he said he accepted the invitation to speak at the summit — because he understand the difficulty of “regaining a balance, having gone through this type of situation.” As he listened to other speakers, he also said he felt the need to repent for what he called “locker-room banter” from his days playing football, for conversations with women in which he “could have done better” and a condescending attitude he has adopted at times as a senior pastor. Men need to listen and to hear the stories women are sharing, he said. “Now is the time for across-the-coffee-table conversations that begin with this phrase: ‘Help me to understand what it’s like to be a female in this day and age,’” Lucado said Max Lucado speaks at Wheaton College on Dec. 13, 2018, during a summit on sexual abuse and misconduct. RNS photo by Emily McFarlan Miller The conference was not without its critics. Former evangelicals Emily Joy and Hannah Paasch, the creators of the #ChurchToo hashtag, were not invited to speak at the summit. The two offered their responses to its sessions throughout the day on social media, stressing the view that evangelical beliefs, including the claim sex should be reserved for a man and woman within the context of marriage, help create an environment where abuse can occur. Kelly Aten, a community group leader at Renewal Church, a nondenominational congregation in West Chicago, Ill., said she appreciated that speakers made clear sexual abuse is a sin. But they could have clarified that the abuser — not the victim — had sinned. Survivors already may be dealing with feelings of guilt or shame, as well as a “blame culture” that too often asks what she was wearing or what she did to invite the abuse, said Aten, who attended the summit with a group of female leaders from Renewal. And abuse is not just a sin, said Aubrey Sampson, a member of the church’s preaching team who identified herself as a survivor. It’s also a crime — a point she said more speakers could have made clear. Beth Moore addresses participants at Wheaton College on Dec. 13, 2018, at a summit on sexual abuse and misconduct. RNS photo by Emily McFarlan Miller Still, those in the group said they had learned a lot and hoped to take what they have learned back to Renewal. They hope to create an environment where people can feel safe and experience healing. “The leaders in our church need to be equipped and encouraged and empowered to know, ‘What do we do?'” Sampson said. “How do we lead our people? How do we shepherd our people well?” That was something that had resonated with them in Moore’s talk. The Bible teacher recounted new headlines every month exposing crime and coverups in churches and other Christian institutions. She pointed out how secular groups have responded. Now, Moore said, it is the church’s turn. Tags#ChurchToo #MeToo Beth Moore Ed Stetzer evangelical GC2 Summit homepage featured Max Lucado Nancy Nealious sex abuse sexual abuse Wheaton College Emily McFarlan Miller is a national reporter for RNS based in Chicago. She covers evangelical and mainline Protestant Christianity. irondrake says: Maybe all Church leaders should be subjected to psych testing before being given any power. Mark Connelly says: Let’s first subject all the psychologists to “psych testing”. I’m fairly sure you have to be in order to be licensed. David Allen says: Having a degree in psychology, sociology & human behavior, we had a lot of testing, as well as, actually going through counseling ourselves, as part of our licensing procedures. Many seminary programs, as well as denominational credentialing processes, require a certain amount of psychological testing and therapy. Sadly, much of it started out as a way to make sure that no undesirable homosexuals made it into the ranks of the ordained. It was years before the fields of psychiatry & psychology realized that you can’t accurately identify queers with a test. To what purpose? I am fairly familiar with a couple of the Boards of Psychology and if there is any testing, the results are not a matter of public record. I believe any testing takes place as part of the academic process prior to applying for a license. Thin The Herd says: From the article, the conference was a step in the right direction. The organizers, sponsors and participants deserve credit for it. Don’t stop with that narrow set of people in authority. There should also be more training and emphasis on mandatory reporting. Laws vary from state to state. In my home state, the standard is: If a mandated reporter has reasonable cause to know or suspect that a child has been subjected to abuse or neglect, or observed the child being subjected to circumstances or conditions that would reasonably result in abuse or neglect, the mandatory reporter shall immediately upon receiving such information report or cause a report to be made of such fact to the county department, the local law enforcement agency, or through the child abuse reporting hotline system. Many health care agencies have annual skill and safety “fairs.” In my experience, and in talking with friends, mandated reporting isn’t given enough stress. Satan will do anything to take the focus of the church from Christ and Him crucified FriendlyGoat says: At random, here (and what else are comment sections for, really?) 1) One good way to not have to repent of “locker room banter” is to, whenever possible, not be in locker rooms. Most men know, or should know by now, that all-male environments from kid stuff (sports teams, scouts, sibling brother competition), to fraternities, to military experiences, to seminaries, to prisons, to barber shops, to pool halls/taverns, to golfing/hunting/fishing trips, to elderly spit-and-whittle gatherings are MOST notable for their subject spectrums running from merely stupid to far more negative. Going along, getting along in these settings is an act best avoided if one would prefer to have actual sensibility and not have to feel a need to repent of what one heard or said. 2) I have a private theory that the more hours one has spent holding hands with someone else, the less abusive one is likely to be in all respects. Can’t prove it. Wish we could scientifically test it. I think there is magic in holding the hand of a child, an elderly person, a girlfriend, a sibling, a spouse, maybe even just a randomly adjacent person in a prayer circle. If I was a pastor, I would never miss a chance to preach up all the harmless and healthy excuses for people to do some serious handholding. Just sayin’. 3) The Bible, only with hints, provides a wide-open opportunity for preaching on the ideal non-romantic relationship between males and females who are not marrying. What if Jesus was a sinless man and actually modeled the best with his friend, Mary Magdalene? What if he helped her get out of a mess (the demons cast out) and befriended her, respected her, trusted her, cared about her as a person, a confidante, a friend, an equal helper among those in his circle. What if we men were called to think about this more than we do? What if we were asked to venerate two different kinds of Mary, in different ways and for different reasons. I don’t knock the female face put on religion with veneration of Mary, the mother of Jesus. But Jesus had another Mary in his life who we are led to believe was important to him. Why don’t we talk her up more? We could. The Bible would give room for this kind of preaching. Motherhood is dandy. Virginity too. But there is MORE that would be worth hearing from our pulpits to build up women and give food for thought to men. What you can accurately identify with tests is fairly limited. What you can predict with tests is even more limited. “Most men know, or should know by now, that all-male environments from kid stuff (sports teams, scouts, sibling brother competition), to fraternities, to military experiences, to seminaries, to prisons, to barber shops, to pool halls/taverns, to golfing/hunting/fishing trips, to elderly spit-and-whittle gatherings are MOST notable for their subject spectrums running from merely stupid to far more negative.” Boy, was THAT a revealing comment! You may want to change your on-line name from FriendlyGoat to Felix Unger. If I remember right a mainstream Church tested a charismatic up and comer and realized he was dangerous. That’s the reason Jim Jones had to found his own denomination. SamHamilton says: Good thoughts. NavyLadyBlues05 says: So your church should not be focusing on the grievous sexual harm that befalls innocents that grace the pews? Kind of negates all that talk about get healed and stuff, eh? Not at all Navy. It is not the focus of the church though You just contradicted yourself. If your church can’t focus on the troubled and ill residing on the pews, what is the point of attending? No contradiction whatsoever. The focus of the church is Christ and Him crucified and that is what the world wishes would end. That doesn’t mean the church shouldn’t help people. It just should not be their number one priority – salvation comes first. So, before a broken spirit and body receives healing, it must first capitulate and hope it’s enough to warrant aid? This is what I’m taking away from your “logic” about church. Christ heals, Navy Why ‘Silent Night’ and the stories around it endure 200 years later	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4368
__label__cc	0.604996	0.395004	Jason Markham on Science to resolve environmental conflicts Stephen Thorpe on Science to resolve environmental conflicts - Wayne Linklater on Science to resolve environmental conflicts MikeM on Science to resolve environmental conflicts Ashton Dempsey on Science to resolve environmental conflicts Search within Politecol Back to Politecol Are women more ‘environmentally friendly’? By - Wayne Linklater • 31/10/2014 Chances are you have heard it said: ‘Women care more about the environment’. Perhaps you have even heard someone say that ‘women are more environmentally aware’ or ‘women are more likely to act to protect the environment’? The idea appears to originate from the argument that women have a more substantive or direct relationship with the environment because they are our species nurturers. The assumption is that the sex which nurtures the next generation – invests most and is most vulnerable – will be overwhelmingly more sensitive to the future and its environment and so behave accordingly. The ideas seems intuitive to me. Some of my own motivations for working in environmental science and biodiversity conservation are that I want my two daughters to live in a world as least as good as the one I was raised in. It should be a healthy environment for them and provide a wealth of natural resources and values. But, I am a father. Could women really be better environmentalists than men? There is very much to debate about the argument that women might be more ‘environmentally friendly’ than men. But let us put the philosophical, theoretical and political discussion aside for the moment and, instead, subject the idea to direct testing and begin by calling it an hypothesis. Then, we should consider how our hypothesis could be tested. A group of male and female students taking a course in Behaviour & Conservation Ecology at my university conducted an experimental test of the idea. I suggested to the students that they might measure a person’s environmental behaviour by whether or not they would pick up litter on a public walkway (mall, street, path) and dispose of it in a nearby public rubbish tin (garbage bin). Litter disposal seems a good test of environmentalism to me because litter is an environmental hazard, and picking it up requires that a person make an environmental decision and behave environmentally. The environmental behaviour – litter pick up and disposal – can also be observed from a distance in a public place without interaction or influence, and with anonymity for observers and passers-by. Surreptitiously when they would not be seen, one of the students placed an open and empty cereal box on the ground near (around 2-3 metres from) a rubbish tin. The students then sat, nonchalantly, in the distance recording the sex, male or female, of all the people who walked within an arms-length of the cereal box and whether or not they picked it up and disposed of it. The rationale of including only those who passed within an arms length of the cereal box is to exclude, as much as possible, the large number of people who may have passed but been unaware of the cereal box. If the cereal box was picked up and trashed, the students replaced it with another, and waited again. The students, over several sit-and-watch sessions when not in class or finishing other assignments, recorded 2786 people walk within an arms-length of the cereal box – it was a busy street: 1300 were men and the remainder, 1486, were women. Just 108 (3.9%) passers-by picked up and disposed of the cereal box in the rubbish tin. Men were almost twice as likely to pick up the litter as women. Sixty-six men (5.1%) picked up the litter, but only 42 women (2.8%) did. This is a statistically significant difference between the sexes (Chi-square test: df=1, P<0.001). Men were more likely to pick up litter than women. Are women more ‘environmentally friendly’ than men? In so much as environmental decisions and behaviour can be measured by picking up litter, the idea appears not to be true. The hypothesis was not supported. I would not have been surprised by a neutral outcome of our little experiment – men and women being equally likely to pick up litter. But, unexpectedly, the evidence is that the opposite of the original hypothesis is true. It is wonderful how sometimes our investigations throws us surprises. Why are men more likely to pick up litter? Perhaps the answer to my question lies in the other characteristics of the people observed. The students who conducted the experiment recorded many other characteristics of the people who passed by that litter: their relative age, whether or not they were in family groups, and in groups of different size. They even duplicated the work in different environments such as parks – reasoning that people might be more inclined to pick up litter in parks than on city streets. Those results and more might be the subject of a future post. About Politecol Politecol is the blog of Dr Wayne Linklater who is interested in wildlife biology and ecology and human interaction with wildlife. Jim Hilton on Science to resolve environmental conflicts Sue Grwy on Science to resolve environmental conflicts	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4375
__label__wiki	0.558689	0.558689	Fertility genes required for sperm stem cells The underlying cause of male infertility is unknown for 30 percent of cases. In a pair of new studies, researchers at University of California San Diego School of Medicine determined that the reproductive homeobox (RHOX) family of transcription factors — regulatory proteins that activate some genes and inactivate others — drive the development of stem cells in the testes in mice. The investigators also linked RHOX gene mutations to male infertility in humans. The mouse study is published September 27 by Cell Reports and the human study was published September 15 by Human Molecular Genetics. Mutations in the RHOX transcription factor family inhibit sperm development and are associated with infertility in men. Credit: University of California San Diego Health Sciences. “Infertility in general, and especially male fertility, gets little attention considering how common of a problem it is — about 15 percent of couples are affected, and nearly half of these cases are due to male infertility,” said Miles Wilkinson, PhD, professor of reproductive medicine at UC San Diego School of Medicine and senior author of the Cell Reports study. “That means around 7 percent of all males of reproductive age — nearly 4 million men in the U.S. — have fertility problems.” Wilkinson is also a co-author of the Human Molecular Genetics study, which was led by Jörg Gromoll, PhD, at the University of Münster in Germany. Sperm are made from cells that undergo many stages. Transcription factors have been identified that direct most of these cell stages, from the dividing cells in the embryo to the cells that rearrange and partition the chromosomes to individual “pre-sperm” in the testes. However, before this latest research, Wilkinson said no transcription factors were known to direct one of the most critical stages — the formation of the stem cells in the testes, known as spermatogonial stem cells. In the Cell Reports study, Wilkinson and team removed the entire cluster of 33 Rhox genes in mice. They were surprised to find that the most notable defect in these mice was a deficiency in spermatogonial stem cells. Hye-Won Song, PhD, assistant project scientist in Wilkinson’s lab and first author of the Cell Reports study, removed just one of the Rhox genes — Rhox10 — and found essentially the same defect as deleting the full set. Wilkinson, Song and team discovered there was nothing wrong with the spermatogonial stem cells in mice lacking Rhox10, only that there were so few. They found that this occurred because most of the earlier stage cells — pro-spermatogonia — did not specialize into spermatogonial stem cells. As a result, the testes of Rhox10-deficient mice did not enlarge and their sperm counts failed to increase as they aged. The researchers concluded that Rhox10 is the most critical gene in the Rhox cluster, and that it plays a role in spermatogonial stem cell formation. The Rhox genes are on the X chromosome. It makes sense that male infertility would be caused by mutated genes on the X chromosome, Wilkinson said, because men only have one copy — if something goes wrong with an X-linked gene, they don’t have a backup, like women do. There are several potential clinical implications of these results, the researchers said. For example, Rhox genes may have roles in testicular tumors that arise from germ cells that failed to convert into spermatogonial stem cells and thus are “frozen” at the pro-spermatogonia stage. Rhox genes may also be useful for regenerative medicine approaches to restoring fertility through therapy with spermatogonial stem cells. In the second study, published by Human Molecular Genetics, Gromoll and colleagues sequenced RHOX genes in 250 men with severely low sperm count. They found two mutations in one of these genes (RHOXF1) and four mutations in the other two (RHOXF2 and RHOXF2B, which are almost identical). Only one mutation was also found in a control group of men with normal sperm concentrations. In laboratory experiments, the researchers found that one of the low sperm count-associated mutations significantly impaired transcription factor RHOXF2/2B’s ability to regulate its target genes. Molecular modeling suggested that this mutation altered its 3-D structure. “Spermatogonial stem cells allow men — even in their 70s — to generate sperm and father children,” said Song, who also co-authored the Human Molecular Genetics study. “Our finding that Rhox10 is critical for spermatogonial stem cells, coupled with the finding that human RHOX genes are mutated in infertile men, suggests that mutations in these genes cause human male infertility.” This conclusion is further underscored by the previous finding that men with abnormal sperm characteristics tend to have RHOX genes excessively marked with chemical tags known as methyl groups. Wilkinson, Song and team are now working to better understand precisely how variations in RHOX transcription factors lead to human infertility. Web Source: University of California San Diego Health Sciences. Original written by Heather Buschman, PhD. Journal References: Miles F. Wilkinson et al. The Homeobox Transcription Factor RHOX10 Drives Mouse Spermatogonial Stem Cell Establishment. Cell Reports, September 2016 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2016.08.090 Jennifer Borgmann, Frank Tüttelmann, Bernd Dworniczak, Albrecht Röpke, Hye-Won Song, Sabine Kliesch, Miles F. Wilkinson, Sandra Laurentino, Jörg Gromoll. The humanRHOXgene cluster: target genes and functional analysis of gene variants in infertile men. Human Molecular Genetics, 2016; ddw313 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddw313 Fossils can help predict future species survival How ‘hair-of-the-dog’ approach works to treat allergies, mouse study shows Study shows adipose stem cells may be the cell of choice for therapeutic applications Findings: Induced pluripotent stem cells don’t increase genetic mutations Early development reveals axolotl mysteries Human stem cells treat spinal cord injury side effects in mice Brain network activity can improve in epilepsy patients after surgery Scienmag May 16, 2019 Credit: Vanderbilt University Medical Center Successful epilepsy surgery can improve brain connectivity… Skin-like sensor maps blood-oxygen levels anywhere in the body Decoupling stress and corrosion to predict metal failure	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4376
__label__cc	0.71395	0.28605	Connect with the Global Academic Community Place a free scientific ad Scientific ads Submit review Create journal list Reviews for "Glossa: a journal of general linguistics" Average duration (1st review rnd.) (click to go to journal page) 1st rev. rnd Tot. handling Im. rejection Glossa: a journal of general linguistics 4.3 weeks 4.3 weeks n/a 3 1 (bad) 1 (bad) Rejected Motivation: On the positive side, the editorial manager system of the journal is excellent. However, if some of the reviewers are either not familiar with the literature on the given topic or they are busy promoting their own related work, the chances of a real scientific discussion are severely limited. Glossa: a journal of general linguistics 64.1 weeks 72.4 (excellent) 4 (very good) Accepted Motivation: This is a new Fair Open Access Journal, and it is clear that the editors are putting a lot of effort into this journal. I had a little picky Reviewer who insisted that I should keep changing small details, but s/he was finally satisfied after a few rounds of revision. (good) 1 Motivation: The decision seemed really at odds with the content of the reviews. There were some serious flaws in the paper, to be sure, but the suggestion was basically to rewrite it about a different topic, with new data that is not feasible to collect. So, it was a pretty unhelpful rejection. Motivation: The reviews were pretty okay, but some comments were pretty inane. Point being, now that the paper was rejected, they won't help us actually improve it to send it elsewhere. (excellent) Accepted Motivation: Three high quality review reports which arrived in less than 3 months time (pretty good for linguistics and especially during summer). I learned a lot from the reviews and the papre improved a lot. The article was accepted on the same day as it was resubmitted. Very pleasant interaction with editorial staff. Smooth handling. © 2013-2019 SciRev Foundation, all rights reserved. \| News \| Contact us \| Terms and conditions \| Privacy policy \| @scirev	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4377
__label__wiki	0.707452	0.707452	Who to Contact? The Public Circle About the Circle The Open Office Place Speak The Public Circle Podcast The Public Circle LIVE! Join the Circle! Adam Olsen Elected in 2017, Adam is a member of the Tsartlip First Nation and former Councillor in the District of Central Saanich. He has worked in communications and community advocacy for more than a decade. Adam and his family (Emily, Silas and Ella) live on the property where he grew up in Brentwood Bay. Ryan Clayton Constituency Assistant Ryan Clayton has a BSW from the University of Victoria. He has worked as a counsellor and a youth advocate in the past and is motivated by the desire to help others. He has served as the co-chair of the city of Vancouver’s LGBTQ committee, and recently as vice-chair of Saanich’s LGBTQ committee. Ryan manages all casework for the office and is the first person you see as you walk in the door! JoJo Beattie communications Manager and executive coordinator Born in England and raised in Prince George, JoJo has a degree in International Studies from UNBC and over ten years experience helping human rights activists and non-profits tell their stories in new and impactful ways. JoJo hopes to use her experience to better connect constituents and ensure they have an opportunity to provide input. The Public Circle newsletter is delivered once per month. On rare occasions we will send out other emails with general information. Thank you for joining “The Circle” newsletter. Past Issues of the Circle Saanich North and the Islands Constituency Office, 215-2506 Beacon Avenue, Sidney, BC, V8L 4T9, Canada250-655-5600adam.olsen.mla@leg.bc.ca	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4379
__label__cc	0.609093	0.390907	/ Modified jun 22, 2017 10:12 a.m. Susan G. Komen Arizona to Close After 24 Years The group breast cancer nonprofit cited declining funding as the cause. by Christopher Conover TWEET SHARE The Susan G. Komen Arizona nonprofit has announced it is closing. Courtesy Susan G. Komen Arizona, via Facebook After 24 years of funding breast cancer programs in the state, Susan G. Komen Arizona is ceasing operations. The private organization will close its doors at the end of July after seeing a change in the financial landscape. “Over the past few years, we’ve seen a decline in the fundraising and event participation and overall funding to nonprofits and we haven’t been able to change that around,” said Christina Mencuccini, executive director of the group. Mencuccini said many nonprofits are having similar problems. The organization’s Tucson office closed earlier this year. The national Susan G. Komen organization will honor all funding contracts entered into by the Arizona affiliate. MORE: Arizona, Health & Medicine, News Southern Arizona Dry in More Than One Way: 'Blood Drought' Food Prices are Down 6 Percent in Arizona Arizona Tax Revenue Up 7 Percent in May	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4397
__label__cc	0.651829	0.348171	January 26, 2016 January 26, 2016 / razorbackwriteraus / Leave a comment And now onto the tales of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. Beowolf: Lucifer sat, legs crossed, fingers steeped together, and wondering what to do. He couldn’t touch the world directly. That would be breaking the rules and no fun at all. Usually he was all for breaking the rules, but the punishment for breaking these rules was much more severe then a slap on the wrist. The Riders have been released, and the End Times were coming. Soon he would lay claim to Earth and walk it, harvesting souls and one step closer to assaulting the Heavens where he would rightfully rule. And all was going as he wanted it to. Hell Gates were opening up on Earth and spawn were toeing their way out, most unsure how to react to the world they have only heard about. Pestilence, War, and Famine were doing what they did best, and ripening humans for harvest which Death collected. But she was the only flaw in that plan. She had a sense of morals, a thing he tried to remove tirelessly. She sent a majority of the Souls towards Heaven, a few she kept for herself, and fewer still back towards Hell to be used. And there was very little he could do about it. She was the perfect weapon with impenetrable armor. Those she wanted dead she would claim and she could just as easily refuse to take her own life, even with her stone destroyed. With that and the fact that Fate controlled her and not him made her for a very potent but awkward tool to use. Hopefully that could change with Bah’ram being on that plane. Perhaps he could reign her back into line. But what was more likely would be that he would have to go there himself and remind her who controlled who. Fate, bah, he practically had that hold hag under his thumb as it was. He had been planning this for eons, and he’d be damned a second time if it wasn’t going to work. Leggo: “If that angel knew, my plan would be ruined fool.” Sure, Death could be kind at times, but was rather easily frustrated with the other horsemen, even more so when Pestilence pooed his runny nose into her business. Turning from Famine to the horsemen of Disease, Death had an eerie irritation about her as she spoke to him, “You’ve given me plenty to do Pestilence, but you know my laws. I cannot claim the ill until their fate has been sealed. Now listen to me.” Replacing the tainted souls back into her collection, Death sealed the bag and gave an icy look to her brothers. She knew very well that War was already having the time of his millennia somewhere else, she could feel the anger even from where she stood, and soon she’d have to be at the place of battle to claim the wounded, but for now…something more serious was at hand. “Lucifer is running about, and he will be trying his best to sway you away from Fate. He has claimed a fallen angel, another traitor, to do his bidding and they both will do whatever it takes to convince to go against the command of fate, and you must not let them. The angel Michael will be trying to do the same, trying to sway you towards the light but against fate as well. Protect yourselves and do not let their influence capture you. Being amoung the humans is going to be difficult enough, so try to control yourselves.” It was all the warning that Death could give to her brothers. Even she could possibly be swayed so they would all have to be on lookout…it would take all of their strength to stay on their own paths, and even Death would have trouble if Lucifer found a way to hinder their powers Razor: Turning off the engine, the dilapidated car clunked and hissed like it was having a fit. One last blast of black smoke from the back and it finally shuddered to its own little death. The noise and smell it made being very hard to ignore. Pestilence fiddled with the interior handle which then broke off in his hand. He stared at it for a moment, before tossing it over his seat into the back to only land on a rotting pile. Well, if the door wasn’t going to open, he’d have to crawl out the window, which was not only comical, it caused Pestilence to cough and splutter from the exertion he was having to put in. Grimy hands smearing the roof of the car as he pulled himself free, only to land rather awkwardly on the ground. Kind of like…he fell, but then managed to pick himself up again as though nothing happened. Slicking back his hair, as though to try and improve his grotty appearance – which was like that of an old hobo, he ambled up to the pathway, where Death was having a rather serious looking conversation. “My…timing…sucks..” He then paused, cause he was about to be really foul mouthed. He had just missed Michael, and wrinkled up his nose. Blood shot eyes peering…skywards before then noticing his brother Famine near his sister, Death. Pest knew full well that Fame (as he liked to call him), didn’t find the Pest an enjoyable conversationalist. “Missed the Big M, huh? Damn, was going to ask for an autograph.” Pestilence wiped a grimy hand under his nose, before then nudging Death for confirmation. “Guess the trip to Hospital brought out the big guns.” He was still rather chuffed about that. He then waited for someone to say something. Pestilence then sneezed loudly, spraying the ground with a foul green goo. Death was giving her usual icy cold stare. Putting away some has been souls, though Pest didn’t give a shit. She then assumed a more business like stance, declaring that Lucifer was running about and doing his best to lead the brothers astray. Either to the light with Michael, or to the merry pits of Hell with Lucifer. Choices choices. Pest was too busy having fun in making the humans sick to be bothered in getting social with the winged or horned freaks. Pest leaned against his jalopy, which had the wheel guard tremble before falling off onto the roadside with a clatter. The sickly horseman casually glanced down at the mess he was making with the rusting pieces of metal that were finally dropping off the wreck. Blinking away gunk that rested on the inside edge of his eyes, he then smirked with yellow stained teeth at Famine and had a rather mischievous idea. “Why don’t we continue this…meeting over some bur…bur…burgers? I am sure that Famine must be…starving.” Axel: Famine’s face contorted the instant he heard Pestilence voice. He was by far his least favorite to be around…War may be violent and destructive, but Pestilence? He was, for a lack of any better words, absolutely revolting. Before even thinking of speaking again he pulled his long cloak up and around his shoulders like a large scarf to cover his mouth and nose. Exposing more of his skeletal frame to the world. His expression only soured at the the jokes. “ha. ha….you are absolutely hilarious brother. I could almost die of laughter.” There wasn’t a single hint of amusement in his voice. He could only focus on every nasty feature of the sickly being, if he had a stomach it would surely make it churl right now. Ugh….if only fate would allow Death to kill him now rather than suffer around this any longer”I suggest you stick to your day job of gleefuly causing misery to the humans.” Rolling his eyes he turned his attention back to Death. His gaunt face lightening slightly once more. “You do not have to worry dear sibling. I have much curiosity and what you could almost call adoration towards the humans…I may have been the cause of two lives slipping away recently, but I was only responding to their generosity of a warm place to stay and meal. I cannot help what I do.” House Calls – The Embassy : PD January 8, 2016 January 8, 2016 / razorbackwriteraus / Leave a comment Continuing on from “Morning sickness” – The Embassy. Tsu: Nicholas had laid there in bed and watched Valmont talk, his voice was rather soothing. It was great to have someone like him around, especially since they were now engaged. It made things much more closer then they were, something he wanted to have forever. Hearing him speaking of Hiei to go to Hell’s Kitchen he was kind of shocked, it was a bit away and to call for that one doctor. Nicholas knew that he wanted him to be in better shape quickly, it was something that he wanted too. Groaning a bit under the sheets, he’d watch as Val came to sit and heard what he said. Nicholas held onto Valmont’s hand with a soft smile and softly breathed out. ” You shouldn’t take work off for me, you have a bunch of stuff to do Valmont. I’d be perfectly fine, knowing that you’re always near.” He said and looked over towards Hiei, he’d only give him a nod that he was grateful he was going to do what Valmont asked. Nicholas took his hand from Valmont’s and turned, shifting over to the other side of the bed. Crawling a bit he’d open his door and pulled out a small thin box, what did it hold? Something Nicholas had gotten earlier in the week, that he wanted to give in return. Going back to Valmont’s side, he’d sit up and took his hand, setting the box in it. ” This is something that I want you to have, as a token of love.” Nicholas spoke and tilted his head, his hair falling everywhere as he smiled. Once Valmont opened the box, it’d hold a silver chain, a ring attached to it. It was sorta like a pendant but, inside the ring it had the words. ‘Forever and always, Love Nic.” On the top would be small fancy letters written as N&V, it was something he took time to make and get made. Fu: Hiei :” Understood ; I will retrieve The Doctor as soon as I possibly can .” – Hiei took another puff of his cig and turned on his heel ; walking back out of the room and making his way out of the Building. Hell’s Kitchen was it ? Hiei had no time to waste ; and he didn’t waste anytime in sprinting full speed into the distance ; turning into a shadow as soon as he was gone to cover ground faster . He had to find the Doctor for Valmont and Nicholas , and hopefully he was able to do so in a optimal manner . He was a Gentleman after all and he didn’t like disappointing people with inefficiency . He would return to the Embassy with the Doctor , if that was a choice that could be taken upon arriving .- Arriving at the outer gates was a well dressed young man upon horseback. He had the look and style of a lord of Hell, but there was something else about him. Almost…feminine in a way. No one could ever say he was rugged. With a small parchment, that he read, Elijah pocketed it once more and then gave his horse a light kick, before trotting up the main drive of the Embassy. What was his reason for visiting the Embassy you might wonder? Turns out that there had been an advertisement at the local inn for a new Physician for the Ambassador. It had been some time since the call had been put out, but Elijah had just been travelling through when he had seen the want ad nailed to the upright support in the inn. Dismounting near the front entrance, a stable hand came out and took the reigns of the man’s horse. Even he was taken aback with how this man appeared. Surely he was not one of the better looking Princes of Hell. Truth be told, he wasn’t. With a small black bag, he strolled up to the front entrance and knocked twice. A butler was quick to answer, since Hiei had left the Embassy for Hell’s kitchen. “Sir?’ “Yes, I have come to speak to the Ambassador about the position of House Physician.” “Ah…really. How odd.” Turns out the butler knew nothing about this. Elijah handed over the parchment, and it bore the seal of Valmont’s office. With a surprised grunt, he allowed the man to enter, and then escorted him down the passage.“The Ambassador is with the young Nicholas. He is feeling poorly. Talk about timing.” The Butler said with a roll of the eyes. Coinicidences such as this were unusual to say the least. “I am more than happy to treat the young man, to demonstrate my skills.” “Hmmph.” The butler was not impressed, even though nearly every maid that watched the pair pass were positively drooling at the sight of this new…doctor. Reaching the door to Nicholas’s room, the butler coughed, before knocking upon the door. “Sirs, you have a visitor.” Inside, Valmont had been opening the gift of the ring upon the chain that Nicholas had given to him in a special box. it was a gift to show Nicholas’s great love for the Ambassador, and Valmont leaned forward to kiss his lover on the forehead, before turning to the sound of the butler. “We are a little busy.” Valmont sung out, wanting more privacy. “He…claims to be a Doctor, Ambassador.” “Wow…that was quick. Where is Hiei?’ Valmont sprang up off the bed, and raced for the door, only to open it and see the gruff looking butler with the insanely good looking Doctor. “You’re not Wilhelm.” The Ambassador was surprised, that it was not the legendary Doctor Schwartz. Elijah looked a bit confused, since Valmont was expecting someone else. “Err…no, I’m Doctor Mackleson. I came about the ad, but I understand you have a sick…friend.” he glanced past Valmont into the room to see Nicholas sitting up in bed. “And you must be Nicholas.” The new Doctor pushed past Valmont and made his way over to Nicholas’s bedside, opening his black bag and taking out a stethoscope. “May I have some privacy with the patient?” Elijah was not mucking about, though Valmont looked a bit miffed. “Uhm…..alright.” Tugging on his jacket, he gave Nicholas a worried look, before stepping out of the room and closing the door behind him. With the room cleared of unwanted guests, Elijah smiled down at Nicholas. “Now…tell me young man, what seems to be the trouble?” The kiss to the forehead had felt nice, his lips were cool against his. Nicholas couldn’t get over it, he still sick but, slowly better. What was with the swings? Hearing the door he saw Valmont get off the bed and go towards the door. He looked over and saw the person, it wasn’t who he thought. But hearing that Valmont said he wasn’t the doctor he wondered who it was. He was sure a funny one to rush in like that and ask for privacy. Nicholas felt a bit nervous now, what was he to tell him? He wasn’t sure but, gave Valmont a small nod as he shut the door. Taking a moment Nicholas took the doctor in and examined him. He wasn’t a bad looking guy, he looked like a doctor too. Though something about him seemed a bit off, what was it? He didn’t know, but hearing him speak he sat up fully. ” Well.. I’ve been sick for the past week, throwing up and then recently the past couple of days, blood has been coming with it. I don’t know whats wrong.. I’ve never been sick and I am now. I feel so tired and dizzy after, also.. my appetite has increased, I eat way more then I use to. “ Nicholas said with a breath. Moving out from under the sheets he’d reveal he was in the silk bath robe still. Swinging his legs over the bed he’d sit up fully, knowing that he’d want to examine him. The thing that worried him was that he’d find out about him. It was a doctors word to keep things private so, it’d be okay right? Many thoughts came to his head but, he wasn’t sure. He would just have to go with it now, coming back he’d look up at the doctor. Do you know whats wrong with me? “ With the Ambassador out of the room, and now it was just Nicholas and the new Doctor, he would now be able to get to the bottom of Nicholas’s illness. He naturally didn’t know anything about the young man who had been sitting in bed, but from what Nic was saying his symptoms were, they sounded a little strange. Throwing up blood? That brought a few theories to mind and none of them were pleasant ones. Nicholas had never been sick before this, and now he was dizzy, tired…and with a bigger appetite. Cocking a brow, as he dug about in his medical kit, the Doctor couldn’t help but say the first thing that popped into his head. “Well, if you were a woman I could say that you are showing classic symptoms of pregnancy. Aha.” He had a little laugh at the end of what he said, only to turn back and see the young man now seated on the edge of the bed in nothing but a robe. Odd thing was that Nicholas had the shapely legs of a young woman. In fact, the closer that the Doctor stared at him, he started to notice a few things missing. Well….he couldn’t see any tell tale bulge which would be as plain as day in such a fine silk robe as the one he was wearing. “Err. Nicholas, could you…open your robe please so I can give you a proper physical examination.” It was a Doctor’s job to be thorough in his investigation, but he truly wondered just what…if anything was under that robe now. He was starting to already suspect, that Nicholas was not all that he seemed to be. “If you are concerned, I abide by a very strict ethical code of practice. What happens in this room stays between us. I believe in full Doctor patient confidentiality.”. The Doctor calmly waited for the revealing, and what may well give him perfect insight into the nature of Nicholas’s illness. It was quiet and he simply just watched the doctor think, what was he thinking about? Was he going to have something serious wrong with him? It worried him beyond apparel, as he watched him turn and dig into his medical kit. ‘Well, if you were a woman I could say that you’re showing the classic symptoms of pregnancy. Aha.’ That phrase alone made Nicholas freeze in his spot. Pregnant? Pregnant? He was Pregnant? Is that even possible?! Nicholas himself grew pale more then he was, how.. then he went back to him and Valmonts sessions, oh god. Thinking about it Nicholas never actually knew if one like him could get pregnant. Seeing the doctor look at him he watched him examine him and he could tell he was already catching up. ” Please don’t tell me I am, I don’t think its possible.. it must be something else, right?” Nicholas said as if he was scared. Standing up he thought for a moment, he was going to reveal something he never shown anyone besides Valmont. But, he was reassured when he heard about him believing in patient confidentiality. A small sigh escape from his lips as he looked at the floor, this was so weird now. ” Well you see.. its a birth defect but, I’ll just let you look..” He said in a rather monotone voice, not entirely sure of anything at this moment. His hands move to undue the robe and it opened up, sliding to the sides. He turned and stood in front of the doctor. He would see that he was indeed a half being. If you have a gut instinct about a situation, it is best to exercise caution and not jump to conclusions. Thankfully, the Doctor was showing a very good bedside manner, for when Nicholas expressed fear towards the Doctor’s comical thoughts on what could be wrong, he kept himself in check. “Only one way to find out.” The Doctor said simply. The answer came as something of a shock when Nicholas did open the robe. What it revealed was that while the top half or torso of Nicholas was male, the bottom part was very much female. The Doctor let out a long “ahhhh”, as soon as the robe was opened, and then Nicholas backed it up with his explanation that it was a birth defect. Elijah stepped forward and then took the edges of the robe to close it again and give back Nicholas’s modesty. “I wouldn’t call it a birth defect, Nicholas.” Elijah said softly, as he then gestured for Nicholas to sit back down on the bed. “I would say that you are very special.” Now knowing what Nicholas actually was, helped a great deal in helping with the prognosis. “I take it that…the Ambassador is your lover?” Already the Doctor was starting to put two and two together, as he took out a small sample cup and handed it to Nicholas. “Cause, if he is….and you have the reproductive organs of a female, there is every possibility that you are in fact pregnant.” Elijah knew that this might come as something of a shock, but it had to be said. “So far, everything you have described points to it. Once you give me a small urine sample, we will know for sure. Then I can prescribe what you need to help keep food down during the first trimester.” There was no judgement from the doctor. He acted perfectly normal and civil towards Nicholas. The last thing the young man needed was to be looked down on or ridiculed. It had been quiet as he watched the doctor look at him, surprisingly he didn’t feel nervous. Usually he was if someone was looking at him as he did. Why was that? Maybe because he was a doctor and he felt a bit safe about it. Seeing him lift the robe to close, Nicholas would take it and tie the rope around his waist. Sitting on the bed he listened, its not a birth defect? It had to be, no way was Nicholas special in anyway with this. ” I don’t think I’m special, cause if I was special.. then I wouldn’t of had a hell of a life in the beginning and outcast.” He said and sigh a bit. Mentioning of Valmont he simply looked at the ground. Oh how was he suppose to tell Valmont this? Their was no way he could, what would he think? Nicholas shouldn’t be having these thoughts, he would be honest with him. He is his lover after all and this wouldn’t be different. Lost in thoughts he came back to reality when the doctor was handing him a cup. ” Yes, he is my Fiance. “ Nicholas said firmly with no hesitation. Standing up he nodded his head, walking past the doctor and into the bathroom. Shutting the door he would stand there and think about everything, it was a lot. If Nicholas was pregnant, then he was carrying a child of an important man in hell. Oh how this would all turn out, he bit his lip some and went to the toilet to do what needed to be done. A couple of minutes later he’d return out with the cup, filled. Walking back towards him he would simply set it on the table and took a seat on the bed again, looking towards the doctor. ” I’m glad you’re not judgmental towards me.” Were the words that came from his lips as he waited to see. It was easy to pick up that Nicholas felt differently about himself to what the Doctor had said. Unlike many people, the Doctor was not at all judgmental when it came to his patients. In his eyes, everyone had something about them that made them different, or as the Doctor termed it – special. He did not believe that anyone should be persecuted for not being considered the norm. To Elijah there was no such thing. Perfection didn’t exist and if anyone believed that to be true, they were deluding themselves. Elijah regarded Nicholas carefully. It was clear that he had self confidence issues along with some regarding his body. The Doctor didn’t try to make light of the conversation now. This was a serious matter, when you thought about it. Nicholas had never been told that he could reproduce before, so this must have come as something of a complete shock. With Nicholas confirming that the Ambassador was his fiance, the Doctor nodded. It explained the way that Valmont had acted when the Doctor appeared at the door. So very concerned, and more so than a normal employer. He knew full well who Valmont was, and so he was a little taken aback, till he worked out that Nicholas was part female. Nicholas had this gentleness about him, and a beauty that was unique. The more that the Doctor regarded him, the more he could see the attraction. When Nicholas came back out from the bathroom, and set down the sample cup, the Doctor was quick to take out a pregnancy tester stick and place it inside the cup and swirling it around, before then taking it out and setting it upon a small dish. While the test was activating, Elijah went to take Nicholas’s arm and get his blood pressure to see if there was any issues caused by the possible pregnancy. Squeezing the pump, he offered a warm smile, when Nicholas said that he was grateful that Elijah was not judgmental. “I just want to put your mind at ease, Nicholas. It is not my place to judge others. Hmm…its a little high, but not too bad.” Elijah spoke of Nicholas’s blood pressure, before taking off the wrap around his arm. Now, it was time to check the pregnancy stick…and sure enough. “Well, according to your sample you are pregnant. Congratulations.” The Decay. January 5, 2016 / razorbackwriteraus / Leave a comment Collaborative series of the life of the survivors of the Zombie Apocalypse. Lith: Month/Season:September/Autumn 2 months ago, July, was when it all started. What was reported as a new but non threatening virus became an epidemic. No one knows what truly caused this virus, but theories like some new avian flu, government experimental weapons, or aliens, cropped up everywhere. What was clear, was that the dead was rising again, and were feeding on the living. The military tried to hold off some highly populated areas, but by most accounts they failed. Civilians were forced to leave their homes, or highly populated zones because of the rampant spread of this virus. As they were torn apart from their friends and family, they were forced to seek out food and shelter before they could try and reconnect, but for most it was too late. This new world is something you must fight against, to rebuild, to survive. The question is, can you? Trudging along under the overpass, Jack constantly checked his surroundings with a sense of paranoia. With one hand gripped on his utility belt, near his holster, and the other around his backpack strap, he made his way to the wall of a nearby abandoned building and shimmied along to the corner. The sound of the dead could be heard around the corner, as many cities had been seemingly overrun with the dead. He turned his head and leaned to look around the corner and analyze the situation, with the surprise of the street scattered with the dead walking, and on appearing from just around the corner and taking ahold of him. Jack let out a gasp then fell to the floor with the zombie on top, biting down, trying to get at his face. Jack got a hand around the zombies neck and reached toward his belt for his baton. After a short but heated struggle, Jack armed himself with the baton and struck the zombie over the head constantly, until it stopped moving, but the thudding sounds of falling to the ground and the repeated baton to the scalp had drawn the attention of the other walkers and they began creeping over to his location. Jack pushed the body off of him then rushed to get to his feet as a walker approached him reaching in for a meal. Swinging the baton, he hit the walker across the head and knocked it to the ground, but didn’t seem to kill it as it had begun to rise again. Jack made a sprint through the scattered group, knocking them over or slipping past some to avoid getting surrounded, and made his way to a nearby alleyway. He then slid to a halt and let out “Ah!”,as he had seen there were even more walkers in this alleyway. With the zombies gaining in on him from before, and the new group asserting their attention to him, he seemed surrounded. In the heat of the moment, he drew his pistol and fired four shots and the first few walkers, killing them and dropping their corpses to the ground, creating a sort of pile. The following walkers behind began stumbling over and then creating another pile, with them crawling to him. He used this time to spot a dumpster near a fire escape, and climbed on top of it, but the walkers from the street had now arrived one began grabbing at his leg, which cause Jack to immediately react and kick it directly on the snout, then make a leap of faith and jump for the ladder. Grabbing it with one hand, he swung the other to take hold of the ladder and began a frantic but successful attempt at pulling himself up to the floor of the fire escape. After a short while of a breather, he noticed through the window leading to the apartment room that it looked clear so he entered in. From there, he made his way through the apartment, rushing to make sure the door leading to the hall was closed, and upon arriving spotted a walker turn around to spot him. He ran to the door and closed it quickly, then made an attempt at barricading with a tipped over bookshelf and a couch as support, and fell to the ground, leaning against it in a sense of relief, as he felt he wasn’t getting a break….and he wasn’t. From the bathroom and the bedroom stumbled out a female and a male walker, most likely a couple from before. “Oh come on”, he let out before coming to his feet and quickly bashing the female walker across the head, but got taken ahold of by the male, who pushed him into the counter in the kitchen, causing Jack to drop his baton. Struggling with this walker, Jack reached for something on the counter, making contact with a coffee pot, and smashed it across its head, sending shards of the glass into its face and knocking it over. Jack then grabbed the rest of the coffee maker and began smashing its skull in, then knocking the recovering female walker over and doing the same for her. Then something unexpected happened for him. Moans came from the bedroom, and a small child trudged out. A little girl, in a dirty pale white dress, with bite marks around her calf and ankle. Jack looked up to her with a realizing horror, that she was already dead too, and that he would have to stop her. “N-..no…please…no”, he let out as he began to tear up, as she drew near. He pushed her back as she got close and then grabbed his baton and swung at her child face knocking her on her back. Holding her down he began bashing in her skull repeatedly until the job was done, and he rose up, dropping his baton, and shook his head, then turned his gaze onto a mirror, seeing the blood all over him, his face, his hands, seeing what the world had made him have to do. Roy sat atop a tree, using the leaves as cover from whatever was on the ground. He sat still, hearing a Spook stumble by every so often. Once in a while, one would catch his scent and start scratching at the tree, until finally giving up and wandering away. He’s been here since the night, and has been sitting here, still. A passing chickadee hovered above him, than landed on his lap. As it walked along over too where he rested his hand, it started nipping at the little crumbs laying on his palm. In one swift move, he grabbed it, and crushed it, placing it in hit pocket. “That’s five.” He silently uttered to himself before reverting back to his still form. He realized it would be a while before another one happens to land on his arm. He lifted the bottom of his mask, and took a bite of the raw bird, spitting out the feathers. He didn’t have to enjoy it, he just had to survive. He made sure nothing was around to see his face, not even the tiniest gnat. After eating, he sat still… waiting. Doge: The old house seemed safe enough. Sleeping in the car was NOT a safe option, as she realized two nights ago. Since then, Samantha had stuck to using abandoned houses along the backstreets for temporary shelter on her long drive to South Bridge. The walls were clean, a faint lemony yellow, and most of the furniture had been left untouched. Some cold tea mugs had even been left strewn on the counter tops, as if the previous owner had only been out for an afternoon stroll. The epidemic had affected everyone in different ways – some had fortified their houses, set up base camps, recruited in groups. other’s simply left.. as was the case in this home. A shuffling noise in the background caused her to tense up. Pivoting on her heels, she whirled around to come face to face with another ‘one’. The old woman it once was gazing straight into her eyes “Fucking dammit.” She cursed, raising her driver above her head -when suddenly the woman raised her hands in defence and cried “STOP!” it was a survivor. Samantha hastily scanned the room for any more lurking ghouls. Finding none, she turned back to the old woman watching her. “Are you hurt?” “..yes, just on my left forearm.” Instantly her eyes averted to the welted mark near her wrist. She was bit. fucking. damnit. “how long ago was this?” “it’s been two hours…” And by the looks of you, you’ve only got one more hour left, She thought. “Is there anybody upstairs?” Without further ado, Sam helped the woman into the master bedroom of the house. “What are you doing?” The old woman whimpered. her sweaty hands clasped around Samantha’s shoulders. “I’m treating your wounds… It’s the least i can do. I was a doctor back in South Bridge before the virus hit.” She paused and looked at the wound once again. She’d read about it in books – she wasn’t stupid – The zombie apocalypse brought an epidemic which was transmittable bodily fluids. If one was bitten by the infected they would only have a limited time left to live based on their current health and status. Of course, this wasn’t written in a Mayo medical journal, but it was all she had for reference in this time of need. For Sam, working in a profession dedicated to saving lives was tough in a time where people had to kill to survive. But to her..what this meant was that any surviving life was worthy of attention – and she was going to give it all she got. If you work for any one government long enough, you see, you hear the strangest things. After a while you start to wonder just who is serving who. One day, those lines they tend to blur – and grey, well that becomes the new norm. A man who served the army, his country and his God knows how the system works. He knows, that at the end of the day…you all be serving the Man. Only the Man don’t always want what is best for the people. No sir. Ever seen the long lines outside the soup kitchens. The many broken, shattered men that had served their country and then come home only to find that the country would not serve them. Now these same men, they were trained. Taught all the secrets, seen the horrors of war and botched foreign policy that served a goal to appease some sections of what we call the right wing. We are taught in our schools…brainwashed; that this is all for the good of the country. But all too often, its only to appease that one percent. The ultra rich. The men that make the guns that fall into the hands of the believers and those that seek to bring them down. Then there are those that make the weapons of the biological age. The ones that can bring a nation to its very knees, but they would not dare release it on their own home soil. They would not let such a cocktail of chemical destruction go rampant on God’s own people. Or…has sin itself fed the greed of these same men…and now..God…has turned away from his children. Left them to suffer….the fate that they…brought upon themselves. War is Hell…but a living hell…is worse. Rufus had served his nation with pride. Watched boys…not men, die alone in a distant land, clutching a picture of their sweetheart. Dreams whispered in their final breathes that never became fulfilled. That last war however, there was no honor. A man who knew nothing but the life of a soldier came back to a country that he didn’t even recognize. His own family, they’d have nothing to do with him. Some lab coat flunky called it Post traumatic stress syndrome. Pills didn’t work. Living in society? Nope, that near drove him crazy. But out in the wilderness. Places where man had not left its foul footprint. That was the only place that Rufus could breath. Where he could think. For a few years…it was his sanctuary. But like all good things, it would be spoilt. Spoilt by the same men, that had brought war to so many countries. Our veteran had a two way, and he heard the chatter. Some man made virus getting loose in the city population. Rufus remembered, one quiet night by his camp fire. Was listening to some good old country songs, when the news broke. He just sat there, clutching his mug of whiskey. Unlike the folks of the big smoke, he had an advantage. Rufus could make ready for when the storm came…..and…it did. 6 months later. It had been a long time, since Rufus had slept in the comfort of his RV. He’d ran out of gas and had to leave it behind off some of beaten track near a thick wood thicket. Rufus had lost count of the number of infected he had slain. Wearing his machetes slung across his back for easy reach, he made his way down through an old walking track. Hoping to find a source of fresh water. Water that had not yet been contaminated. The crunch of the autumn leaves under foot were the only sound he made. Rufus knew a way to regulate his heart rate and maximize his energy output during long days like these. With a keen eye, he kept a watch of the surrounding area. You just never knew when a lone walking corpse would cross his path. If it did…then may God bless him send the wretched back to his maker. Skink: She was woken up by the sounds of loud, dragged foot steps against the leaf littered floor. She sat on her branch and watched. Despite her waist being tightly secured against the trunk of the tree using her scarf, the fear of falling from 15 feet high made her insides churn. They were a group in which what seemed like a family of four. A man, woman, and two children almost her age. “What is he carrying…” She whispered. The walkers moved forward, not noticing she had spoken out loud. What she made out to be the ‘Father’, seemed to have been carrying something on his back. She peered in closer. “It’s a baby carrier…” She said, a little louder than anticipated. The group looked up towards her, they turned and made their way to her tree. She knew that if she kept quiet, they would forget about her and move on, but knowing never did stop her from not feeling safe. Trembling, Callie took this chance to take a better look at the carrier. “Is there a baby? Oh i hope the baby is alive… What am i saying, what a horrible life to live! To sit, strapped against a monster’s back… But what a horrible thing to wish, to hope that a baby is dead. Maybe someone saved the baby, maybe they’re with better people, maybe-” She stopped mumbling. Her eyes widened, her mouth left slightly gaping open. She let out a small sob, in which she started to cry. The carrier held not a living, healthy child, but its body-less remains. “I should’ve known,” She muttered, her words trembling alongside herself. She stared at the two children, gnawing and scratching against the tree trunk below her. It isn’t long. She thought. It isn’t long before i become one of you. Dark Love Eternal – 1 December 4, 2015 / razorbackwriteraus / 2 Comments H8: Feeling someone slip beside her. Taking a long puff off her smoke, breathing out a billowing puff. Her deep blue eyes flickering to the man beside her. He was the most gorgeous man she had seen in awhile. He had to smirk at him. “Well you weren’t here to order for me, now was you.” Winking at him. Taking a sip of her drink. She noticed that even sitting down, he towered over her. That is something loved in vampire male. Not that she didn’t need someone to protect her. But she did fall for the tall dark, handsome and dangerous men. That had got her in trouble, but she did love her trouble. Made her life as a vampire more fun. Her eyes following his long, gracful finger. Down to the man at the end of bar. The man did quiet mouth watering at this moment. Laughing some, “Oh now what is the fun in just a kiss?” Her eyes flicker back to the man. “My kiss of death would be a highlight for most.” When a vampire fed on a human. Their bodies fell into a state of pure ecstasy. They didn’t even know they were being drained of their sweet blood. Just the thought of his blood made her fangs ache. Knwoing that she needed to feed and soon or she would fall into blood lust. And that would draw attention she didn’t need right now. Sitting down her drink, “Are you wanting to watch?” Smiling at him, her peal white fangs showed. Seeing if this man was anything like her. Studying him with her eyes, her plump, Ruby red lips. Take another long pull on her smoke. The smoke filling out of her nose. Pulling the smoke from her mouth, she places it in his mouth. “Watch and see me work.” She winks at him. Slidding off her stool, she picks up her glass downing the rest of the contents. Setting it back down on the bar, she walks gracefully along the bar, making her way down to the man. Placing her self behind him, as he leans over the bar. Drinking his sarrows away, like most do in bars. Placing her hands on either side of the man, she leans over him. Moving to his ear, his whispers softly in his ear. “You look so lonely here all by your self. Want some company?” Her lips brushing his ear. The man’s body tenses, as he looks over her shoulder at Bane. Bringing his drink to his mouth, taking a long pull. Bane’s glance over to Reese. Seeing if he was watching her. The man in a deep rough voice, a little shocked. “Sure.” He pats the seat beside him. Bane smiles and slips into the stool next to him. Her back pressed to the bar, she crosses her legs. The man looks her over. His eyes look on her fangs. His eyes go wide, “Wow those are some impressive fake fangs you got there. Best I have seen in awhile.” Bane laughs softly, her tongue running all along her aching fangs. “Oh I bet you haven’t seen any like these. I would stake my life on it.” He chuckles. Bane runs her fingers through her mane of red and black hair. Letting it fall around her shoulders. The man watches her every move. He squirms in his seat, never have seen any woman like Bane. “So, what’s your name?” He asks. “Oh we won’t see each other after tonight. No reason to get into all that.” The man raised his eyebrow. She knew she got him thinking. She could hear his heart beat pick up. She did love her humans to have a hint a fear to their blood. It made them even sweeter. And she did love her sweets. Leaning to him, she softly brushes his lips with hers.he tasted of the alcohol he was drinking. Not that she really cared for it. He was a little shocked when her lips met his. She knew that she had him. Time to go for in the kill, as it were. Slipping off her stool, taking his hand in hers. He followed without a second thought. Moving off his stool, Bane lead him through the crowds of people. Bane looking back at Reese, she smiled at him. Her eyes taking a light glow. Most would think it was just the lights of the club. Making their way to one of the dark corners. Their was a long couch, that lined the wall. Tables placed along the couch. Leading the man to the couch. She sits him down right beside her. He sets his drink down on one of the tables close to them. He leans and puts his arm around her. Bane didn’t care for humans to touch her. But she was so hungry, it didn’t matter at this point. Putting a smile on her face. He pulls her closer to him. Bane leans into kiss him. He kisses her back a little to deeply for her liking. That was her trigger, reaching up to his neck. She pulls his neck to the side. His pulse point beating like a deadly butterflies wings. Her aching fangs plunge into his neck. He tries to pull away from her. But she holds him in place. Pulling the sweet taste of his blood from his neck. Oh it tasted so sweet to her. Her dry body, absorbing the blood into her. The man fell limp on the couch beside her. Almost draining him, his heart was weak. But he was still alive, just barley. Leaning from his neck, she licked the blood from the corner of her mouth. She could feel the man’s blood giving her strength. Her prealy white fangs now tinted red with his blood. She reaches over and takes sip from his drink. Crossing her legs as she relaxes next to the man. She was proud of her self, to say the least. Reese found this girl to be amusing in a playful sort of way. How she so easily bit onto what he was saying, and even going as far to call her kiss of death irresistible. Now there was an advertisement if ever he had heard one. But the way that she looked up at the easy target down the end of the bar, showed that she did indeed have a great hunger. How long had she gone without a decent feed, one would have to wonder. Why, this was of course a land of opportunity for creatures such as themselves. Reese wondered more about this goth child, who didn’t muck around when she made up her mind to go and enjoy a well earned night cap. “Are you wanting to watch?” The girl asked, whilst she acted like some dragon lady from China town – smoke curling out from her nostrils in a show of flamboyance. Cocky little thing, Reese mused. Reese dramatically placed his hand upon his chest, with finger tips drawn in as though to illustrate the mock shock that she might consider him to be a voyeur to such heathen delights. His lips parted and he batted long lashes as though mortally offended. “Do I look like the kind of guy who gets off on watching a drunk turned into a pop top?” The act soon dropped however, when Reese leaned in and then whispered in her ear. “Make it a show worth watching, love.” When he pulled back, he then gestured with his hand as if to say…after you. So that she could move past him freely, and go stake her night’s claim. “Watch and see me work.” She not only threw down the gauntlet, but she placed her ciggy in between Reese’s lips. He casually removed it after taking a long drag, and tapped the ash into an ashtray as his eyes followed her to the other side of the bar, where the unsuspecting accountant was about to get…well, unlucky. Watching from his end of the bar, Reese placed the cigarette behind his right ear, just pushing back some stray hair as he did so – which allowed him to pick up on the conversation going on. Smooth…oh so smooth. This girl was playing the guy as though he was a harp. Plucking at his strings, though he’d probably rather she went a bit further. Promises of a good time in a dark corner, were too good to resist and like a hapless puppy, he went after her When Bane shot a glance back at Reese that showed a look of triumph, the dark haired vampire simply raised a glass, that he had been handed by the barmen, who had leaned in to whisper something to Reese, that caused him only to nod in reply. Whether Bane knew it or not, the place was under surveillance, and if she did kill in her ritualistic feeding, then measures had been put in place to dispose of Mister Poor Unfortunate Fool. Sipping his drink with a bemused expression, Reese continued to keep tabs with his exceptional hearing and range of sight. The rest of the club’s patrons were either too lost in their own drunken or drugged stupors, to care about some sad sack nobody who was to be Bane’s easy meal. The only part that was icky…was when the drunken accountant kissed Bane back hard. It was enough to make Reese cringe. Everyone enjoyed playing with their food, but not when their food tried to play with them. That was just a big…no no. Unless of course the food was wrapped in a pretty package. By the time that Bane had finished the full five courses, and was looking right pleased with herself, the two door bouncers came up to the long couch and with a nod from the barman, they hoisted the unconscious man out from behind the table, and then dragged him out to the delivery entrance, where he would be set loose, once compelled. The usual story given – that he was given a roofie…and done up the ass by some pervert. Enough to make the accountant never want to return to the club on a bender. Worked every time. When the lounge was cleared, Reese chose his moment and went to sit beside the now chuff looking Bane. He then ever so dramatically offered Bane a serviette.‘Missed a bit on your lip.” Suggesting that she was a little messy. He then offered her back the cigarette that she had given him earlier. “You look like you could use this too.” All said with a smirk on his face. That was Reese for you….not backward in being forward. Fushi Yuugi : The Wish of Sealing. November 26, 2015 November 26, 2015 / razorbackwriteraus / 6 Comments Fushigi Yuugi: The Wish of Sealing The Priestess’ of the Gods…. Their pure-hearts brought forth benevolent wishes that blessed both worlds. Over the years, many have been called to the Universe of the Four Gods to restore it to balance and prevent chaos from entering the modern world. However, the power used to render those wishes into realities have weakened the Four Gods, and their Universe threatens to unravel itself into the modern world. Therefore it had been decided by Suzaku, Seiryu, Byakko and Genbu, that their Universe would be sealed away indefinitely to prevent such a disaster. Despite that, not all is as it seems. An even greater power lurks to upset the balance and plunge both worlds into eternal chaos. Verse 1 The Journey’s Outset Location: Art Institute of Asia Date: April 1st 2020 ” Your first step is crucial. Ensure that it is in the right direction.” – Shao lang Da, wandering monk University Campus of The Art Institute of Asia. Renown for its pursuit in the arts of acting and literature as well as contemporary classic and digital artistry, it was a vibrant and active place, full of young students aspiring towards their dreams. It was also the ‘home’ of two individuals with a unique destiny. Although they may not have known each other for very long, they were about to be sent into the journey of a lifetime. Mei: MEI-LIN SUNG “What? What are you all looking at? OH! Do I have something in my teeth? Is my underskirt showing? Alright, let’s just get this over with. No, I am not seasick. Yes, I’ve always been green. No, I didn’t eat grass as a child…” Mei-Lin Sung considered herself the model when it came to the future of theater. Not in a selfish or mean sort of way, though at times the nineteen year-old female could be a bit conceited and full of herself, but she envisioned herself as an exemplary actress and singer in the institute. She only considered one other person equal to herself, and that was a new friend she made almost six months back here on Campus, Koi Miazaki. Both achieved lead roles in the musical Wicked, with Koi playing Glinda the Good and Mei-Lin playing Elphaba, the misunderstood Wicked Witch of the West in this retelling of The Wizard of Oz. Finally, she hit the role of a lifetime, the chance she always longed for and through hard work combined with her fierce determination was hers at last. Location: The Art Institute of Asia, on the way to the final dress rehearsal Mood: Super Focused and excited~! With: No one right now, though where is Koi? Clothes: Black knee-length dress with dark stockings and ankle-length black boots. The native of Beijing was reading her lines out loud currently for the dress rehearsal tonight, making sure every word was perfect and on point. Thanks to the windy Autumn day, however, she nearly lost her script and her long black hair that was usually in pigtails (which she decided to leave down today) kept getting in her eyes and mouth, and she had to keep moving it out of the way of her reading with a small growl of irritation. She finally made it to the building and headed inside, making sure she had all of the script pages together in one folder. Satisfied knowing all was accounted for, she peeked in to the theater from the double doors leading into the auditorium, giving a small huff at not seeing her friend and fellow lead inside, “For goodness sake, where the Heck is Koi?!” She muttered to herself under her breath, clearly not amused as her dark blue eyes narrowed a bit in frustration, “The dress rehearsal is going to start in ten minutes!” Koi: Koi Miazaki ^v^v ^v^v ^v^v ^v^v ^v^v^ Location: Auditorium What am I doing? Inviting the cast to eat pizza ^v^v ^v^v ^v^v ^v^v ^v^v^ Tak tak tak… The sounds of high heels was heard in the midst of the busy streets outside the academy. Humming of a very perky tune was heard along with it. “Popular” – the steps had stopped and the face of its owner quickly turned to the window of a closed store reflecting her face, winking, and singing – “You’re gonna be popular!” She continued to skip her way to her destination, still singing with matching facial expressions and hand gestures, “I’ll show you the proper ploys when you talk to boys. Little ways to flirt and flounce. Ooh! I’ll show you what shoes to where, how to fix your hair. Everything that really counts to be popular…” Despite her easy-go-lucky attitude, Koi really only had 10 minutes left till the final dress rehearsal starts. It was very important to be on time of course, but the girl was having a hard time to act like a perky, sossy blonde lady that she just had to act like Galinda while she was on the way. On stage, she can act it out perfectly, the actress just had to get in character before she starts playing it seriously, and hence, the practice while walking. Almost 5 minutes till the rehearsal starts, the girl ran into a small pizza stand by the gates of the school. She stared at it for sometime, brushing her beige hair on top of her right ear to the back as she thought, We might not get to eat till late night today. Hmmm… Without further hesitation and thinking that she still had time, she went ahead and bought 3 enormous boxes of pizza, each with a variety of flavours. Ten minutes after the rehearsal have started, after everyone had already settled in and ready to start with the practice, a familiar voice echoed. “Hey! Sorry I’m late. I got pizza though. We might as well eat before we start”, the girl smiled at everyone as she casually entered the room. From the way she just entered, it was obvious that one of the lead roles weren’t always on time. Her happy gaze then landed on Mei-Lin, a friend she enjoyed spending time with, even if they only see each other in practices. “Right, Mei-chan?”, she asked for her approval as she raised her boxes of pizza as if enticing the black-haired girl. MEI-LIN SUNG Mei-Lin was sitting in one of the seats, arms crossed and ready to get in her Elphaba costume while growing impatient with Koi. Finally her fellow lead and friend showed up, but before Mei-Lin could scold her for being late, she caught sight of pizza, much to the delight of the cast and crew. Even the director suddenly seemed to be in a good mood, and Mei-Lin’s look softened when Koi addressed her. She couldn’t help but smile a little, giving a soft sigh as she rose to join her companion.”Well, at least you still got here on time, Koi-chan. But you had me really worried! Luckily, it’s our last rehearsal before the show tomorrow night, so let’s do our best, okay?” Her smile widened a bit, “Come on, let’s get to our dressing rooms, we can eat there!” Location: The Art Institute of Asia, from the auditorium to the dressing room Mood: Relieved to see Koi-chan and excited for the last rehearsal! With: Koi-chan~ She along with the cast went to get ready, going to the dressing room she shared with Koi. When she opened the door, she threw her bag down on the sofa and sighed, “Oh, boy, I can’t wait until tomorrow night, Koi-chan! We’re both going to be amazing, I know it!” She sat at her mirror, her costume for Elphaba already hanging up, “I’ll have to transform into a green witch soon, but first I need to get into costume. You’re lucky, Koi-chan, you get to wear much less makeup than I do!” She giggled, then looked to her friend, “Oh! I need to make a quick stop after our dress rehearsal, I have to go to the school bookstore to get a book for improvisation class. Luckily, they’re open late tonight. Wanna join me?” She then gasped as an idea hit her, “We should get ice cream afterwards to celebrate our victory, too! It’s a little early, I know, but I know we’ve got this!” She grinned from ear to ear at her friend. Shin: Monk Gensho Date: September 2 Location: Koukan Empire, Touran Capital City. The Emperor of Koukan issued a decree several month back in an effort to locate and assemble the warriors of Genbu should any be found already. A special search force lead by the Minister of War had located two in this short time. One was already an older young man who trained in the isolated mountain area, the other a young boy in the service of the underground world. But they were all that were located for the time being. Once every lunar cycle, they would gather in the capital City of Touran to discuss the status of the search and the roles they would play as Celestial Warriors of the Priestess of Genbu. One such meeting had taken place and ended. The Minister of War expressed his frustration towards them for not being able to find the other warriors, even though it was him that was tasked with this assignment. The two were exiting one of the many halls of the great palace. ” Namame, please wait.” Gensho asked formally approaching his fellow celestial warrior. ” Please take this. “ the young monk offered him a gift, a crystal orb.” The Priestess may come before the other warriors are assembled. We need to stay in touch. “ he figured. He went on to explain the use of the crystal orb, how it was able to communicate with another crystal orb Gensho had in his possession. ” Try not to lose it.” he jested, seeing if he could get anything other than stares and nods from his fellow celestial warrior. Location: Dressing Room What am I doing? Talking to Mei-chan/Rehearsing A little anxious that her friend would reject the pizza and just scold her for being late (again), Koi stood their waiting for a response as Mei-lin stared at her. Even if she kind of knew that the girl would be patient with her and just let them eat the delightful food in the box, Koi was also aware that tonight was very important because this is the last rehearsal before they show what they’ve got to thousands of audience tomorrow at the big night. Alas, her hunch was correct and Koi was invited to eat pizza in the dressing room. “Sure! We’ll definitely do our best. We’ll work better with pizza in our tummies”, she joked while undoing the strings holding the three boxes together. “Here you go. Eat up. We’ve got a lot of work to do today”, she told the crew with a smile as she opened two boxes for them to eat. “Coming!”, she said in response to her co-lead, taking the last box of pizza with her to the dressing room. In the dressing area, she set the box she held on top of the table and invited Mei-chan and the other crew with them to eat. “Oh yeah. I can’t wait. Though I’m a little bit scared though. Galinda’s character is… well it’s kinda me… but so not me”, she answered in response, feeling a bit nervous about how well they, especially she, will perform tomorrow even if they have already perfected the performance during the past rehearsals. Her nervousness was wiped out when her friend joked about the make up which made her chuckle. “Yeah! Poor you, your Elphaba look takes forever to get done.”, she ate a bit on a huge slice of pizza almost as if she was slurping the cheese. “I just have to wear perky dresses and different types of wigs, and a little bit of makeup. And voila! I’m Galinda-fied”, she said as she tossed her hair as if she was already in character. Her friend then mentioned about going to the bookstore and getting ice cream after the rehearsals which she agreed on. After all, they need a girl time relaxation after all their hard work. “Sure! I’ll go with you. We might as well go to the bookstore first before getting an ice cream since we have to rest our voice a bit after singing. You might sound like a real wicked witch if we ate ice cream first”, she said as she laughed while her make up was being put on, making it hard for her Galinda look to get done. “I wanna grab that new Super Sundae people keep talking about at the new store.”, she said as she closed her eyes while reminiscing what that dessert looked like in a poster she saw. Her dreamland of Sundaes stopped though once she was asked to put her dashing blue dress on for the first scene which seemed to call her mind back to take the final rehearsal seriously. Thankfully, she loved musicals so much that her determination to put on a good show tomorrow won throughout the whole rehearsal and the thought of the sundae has not returned for a while. Assasin Namame~~~~~~~ Location : Touran, Koukan Empire With… : Celestial Warrior Gensho ~~~~~~~ They told him he was was needed for a special purpose. A whim? A request out of pure curiosity? No, no. It was something else. Something else entirely. His eyes had travelled to the character carved in his left collarbone as his master had told him to undress his upper garments. The character that he had all this time hidden from the sight of those around him was now all that mattered. “I had suspected that this day would come.” His master had murmured under his breath. He had been the only one not aware of his fate. But why had master kept the existence of the character hidden from everyone? It was something he had never the courage to ask him. Just like many other doubts that lingered within him. Time passed, his mission had been given and his fate had been delivered. He didn’t really know what to think of it. To the eyes of all, he was nothing but a child who had been dragged into a scenario he could never understand. Namame certainly looked the part. He would follow the orders of the minister and the emperor without questioning, as he always did with his master. But beyond that, not much else. It was if as he was indifferent to all of this. Could that be it? He wasn’t sure of it himself… Namame exited the council meeting in a calm pace, with his quiet steps barely heard across the hallway. A habit he would never part from. Once again, disappointment filled each man who had attended said meeting, as the search of the Priestess of Genbu had still yet to bear fruit. Waste of time, it was all that the young assassin thought of it, why ask to come if there is nothing to report? Of course, he would never voice such words to the council. Silence was all that he delivered, only nodding and shaking his head with a gaze devoid of any clear emotions. Anyhow, he should not make his master wait. Quickening his pace, Namame headed towards the gates of the palace when he heard an abrupt call, making him stop on his tracks to tilt his head. The sight of the fellow Celestial Guardian made him slowly face him properly. Despite not at all sharing a close relationship with him, the meetings had made it clear for Namame that there was no need to be cautious around him like he was with most that surrounded him. The way he acted around the older male was the sole proof of it. He silently took the orb in his hands, eyeing it with curiosity as Gensho explained its properties. Before he knew it, the assassin was consumed by what one could only describe as awe, reflected clearly through his golden orbs, as he observed it, having never seen such an item in his entire life. It was if his inner child had taken over him, showing what was beyond his aloof and cold persona. He was only brought back to reality as the nest reached his ears, realizing how shamefully childish he must have looked. “…Understood.” He avoided the eyes of the white-haired man as he opened his mouth for once. “…Be careful…I will.” As expected his speech was just as incoherent as always, only further embarrassing him. Bowing somewhat clumsily, the boy bid farewell to Gensho and thanked him in silence, proceeding to make his way once again outside. “Don’t worry, Koi-chan, you’re going to be amazing tomorrow night. We both will be, and the way you play Galinda is so adorable!” Mei-Lin cooed over her friend, then laughed, “Yea, I better get my costume on then head over to makeup.” She paused, then grabbed a slice of pizza to eat, “After I eat this, of course!” She laughed and went to get changed, “Neat! The bookstore is very close by, so we can pop in and out then get the ice cream. Hm, you have a point, Koi-chan, if I wanna sound more authentic, I should eat ice cream before the performance!” She laughed and dressed into her Elphaba costume, heading over to makeup. “See you on stage, Koi-chan, we’ll talk more after rehearsal, and I wanna try that new Sundae tonight as well!” She giggled then ran over to makeup. Location: The Art Institute of Asia; Dressing room, then bookstore Mood: Pumped up and ready to go! Clothes: In Elphaba costume for rehearsal, then back to black and white dress, black stockings and black ankle- length boots. After dress rehearsal ended and Mei-Lin was free of all that green makeup, she changed back into her clothes and this time put her hair up in two long pigtails that reached down to her waist. She waited for Koi-chan to change as well, then led her to the book store an hour before it closed. “That was an amazing rehearsal tonight, Koi-chan! You did an amazing job-we both did, really!” She clapped her hands in delight, “You and me, we make a great team, huh?” She beamed happily and walked into the book store, going down the aisles to find what she was looking for. Suddenly she stopped, as a book seemingly out of place was on one of the shelves. “Huh?” She tilted her head, then reached for the book and puled it out, looking at the front of it, “Hey, Koi-chan…have you seen this book here before? Maybe it’s new?” She looked at the symbol and the words on the front: “Universe of…The Four Gods? What kind of play is this?” She looked to Koi-chan in confusion, “And it looks very old, too.” Curiosity getting the better of her, she opened it to the first page. “What’s it about, anyway?” Location: In a busy town What am I doing? Looking for Mei-chan while wondering where I am It was already late night when the final rehearsal ended. Koi felt very accomplished with the performance they put on today. It was perfect! The girl felt very alive even though her body was very tired after all the hard work they did. However, it was her and Mei-lin’s girl relaxation hour and Koi would not let their exhausted state hinder their plan to go to the bookstore and indulge themselves in the taste of the new sundae. She decided to take a bath to feel fresh again. She just loves the that feeling, the feeling of being fresh, a feeling like you just had quality relaxation by the beach side. She then wore her favorite set of clothing that made her look cute and breezy: an egg colored dress with pretty laces. Her whole shoulders are shown, and the skirt ran down just before her knees. In addition, she also wore her floral semi-high heel, sandal-like footwear. And to finish it all, her bronze bracelet her mother gave her as a gift. It was true that her personality was not flirty like Galinda, but her outfit was not your ordinary type as well. Koi just loves anything that looked bubbly. On the way to the bookstore, she and her friend talked about how great they were together. “Mhm! If we work in tandem. There’s no fight we cannot win. Just…you…and…I… Defying Gravity!, she sang her way in response before she chuckled with her mouth smiling as wide as they can. As the two of the friends headed towards the bookstore, Koi immediately went to the manga section to check the titles out before Mei-lin called her attention. Seeing that her stage partner held a very curious book, she repeated the title herself as if the name of the book itself was luring her. “Universe of the Four Gods? I wonder what it’s about…, she held the other side of the book near her as her friend flipped to the first page. “And thus, the girl of legend opened the door to another world.”, she read an excerpt and turned her face towards Mei-lin as if to check her friend’s reaction. She continued reading, “The story itself is an incantation and whomever reads it gains the main character’s power to have their wishes granted. This is because once they turn the first page, the story will become real and begin… What the shocks now?”, she asked her friend in a funny tone looking at Mei-lin once again before the book overpowered both of them with a light so powerful, everything turned dark. Unconscious for some time, Koi slowly opened her eyes, blinking for a couple of times, before fully seeing her current state. “Mmm… Wh-what happened?”, she uttered to herself before fully gaining her consciousness back. Surprised to see that she was not inside the bookstore anymore, she found herself under an old bridge, beside the river. It was night and all she could hear besides the running water was the sound of people nearby, as if she was near a marketplace. “Mei-chan???, she immediately stood up and searched for her friend in a slight panic. Despite not having an idea where she was, and how strange the place looked like compared to the city she lived in, she walked around in search of her friend, feeling slightly scared as to what might have happened to them. “Mei-chaaaaaaannnn????”, she shouted as she looked for her company in the midst of a busy city which seemed to look like ancient China. Her outfit and the way she looked seemed completely different from the provincial clothing other people had and she can’t help but notice people staring at her. It made Koi feel uncomfortable which led her to decrease her pace as she looked around for her friend. She stopped in the middle of the road where people ran to and fro, she turned her gaze around searching for a familiar face and hints as to where she might be. Quirky: Imperial Librarian Kailai Wen (Tomo) Location: Kutou’s Palace Library, Shunrou Capital City What am I Doing? Reading the Universe of the Four Gods, while contemplating the situation at Kutou’s palace, and ultimately deciding to reveal my identity as Tomo. Seated in a small corner of the royal library, so as to not be disturbed by the many people visiting the Imperial Palace, Kailai once again re-read Seiryuu’s version of the ‘Universe of the Gods’. Passed down from generation to generation through Kutou’s royal line, the scroll had been preserved in the Palace’s library for centuries. It was a national relic, only accessible by members of the royal family…or Kutou’s Imperial Librarian. As a child Kailai had always been curious about the scroll—partly because of its historical significance and partly because of his own identity as Tomo, one of the Seven Celestial warriors destined to protect the priestess of Seiryuu. It was an identity Kailai had hoped to take to his grave. Or, at least, that had been the plan. Kailai sighed and rested his face against a table, his brown locks falling over his eyes. Ever since finding out about the Emperor of Hokkan’s “secret” search for the Warriors of Genbu, His Imperial Highness—Kutou’s Emperor—had become anxious. Not wanting to be outdone, the Emperor issued a decree that had the entire Kutou Empire hunting for the Celestial Warriors of Seiryuu. A huge reward was offered for anyone who found a Seiryuu Warrior or offered clues concerning the whereabouts of one. Hundreds of civilians came to the Palace daily claiming to have “seen” a Seiryuu Warrior. Several had even drawn symbols on themselves pretending to be one! It was madness. Next they’ll claim to have spoken with the Priestess of Seiryuu, Kailai thought in an irritable manner. The Imperial Librarian had no desire to reveal himself as Tomo. It would mean the end of his peaceful days where all he had to worry about was running the the royal library and educating the youngest Prince of the Kutou Empire. Unlike his peers in court, Kailai disliked war and he was under no illusion that the Celestial Warriors of Seiryuu would be used as anything more than tools to increase the country’s military strength. But if it’ll end this chaos it might be worth it. Kailai closed his eyes. His identity would be found out eventually with so many people searching for the Seiryuu Warriors. Rather than wait for someone to claim the reward for discovering his secret, it was better for him to reveal himself to the Emperor. I can’t hide in the library forever. Besides, if His Majesty found out that I’ve been hiding right under his nose the entire time, having my peace disturbed would be the least of my worries. Kailai’s thoughts were interrupted by the cry of a grey falcon as it swooped through the open window. Straightening up, Kailai grinned and held his arm out his arm to the predatory bird. “Senru! Finished your usual hunt in the forest, have you?” Senru landed on Kailai’s forearm, letting out a sound off affirmation. “Did you meet with that human friend of yours?” Kailai tilted his head as his listened to Senru’s response. “I see. So he’s left the forest.” Kailai paused. He found it strange that a human lived in the forest just outside of the capital city, but Senru seemed to like him and that was all that mattered. Animals were good judges of character. “Don’t worry, I’m sure you’ll see him again.” Kailai lifted his arm as Senru spread her wings, flying out the window and back into the sky. Senru wasn’t a tamed bird. She was wild and free, going wherever she wanted. Sometimes Kailai wished he could be the same. After listening to Senru, he had made his decision. He would see the emperor. Location: Koukan Empire, Touran Capital City. The young man was taken aback by the sudden answer of his fellow celestial warrior. He was certain that talking was not one of Namame’s strong suits, but was never sure if he could speak at all. Those first words he uttered were enough to make a wide eyed expression on a person who has traveled far and wide over his years as a monk. Although surprised, it was in a good way, as expressed by the smile the young man had for his comrade. The curious young boy suddenly left after observing his gift. Gensho turned as he walked by. ” Well then, see you again soon Nama….)” He quickly stopped in mid sentence. Something was different. Due to his training with the monks on Mt. Kokureishin, Gensho was able to enhance his perception of Ki and Mana. Being a celestial warrior helped much to hasten this result. Drastic changes of such forces only occurs during significant events, such as wars or natural disasters. However what he was feeling at present was something else. Finally he hurriedly removed the glove on his left hand. The ‘Emptiness’ Symbol, the symbol that distinguished him as a Warrior of Genbu, started pulsating. He understood the significance of this event. The priestess has descended unto the World of the Four Gods. ” Namame!” he yelled. Gensho turned around. Surely his comrade would have sensed the same thing. They needed to find the priestess quickly. From his studies he could discern the priestess’ appearance has always been random never occurring in the same place, almost like a safeguard to the process. Fortunately, Gensho’s skills could eliminate a long search. Closing his eyes, the young man lifted his left arm, using it to feel where she might be. The priestess would have overflowing mana which Gensho would be able to pick out in a densely populated area such as Touran. ” There! Namame, the priestess is in the Grand Market District. We must find her.” Mei-Lin’s eyebrows raised upward in confusion as soon as Koi read the first line, giving her friend a quizzical stare. “Um, alright…” She fell silent as Koi read the rest of the words, then Mei-Lin gave a laugh, “This sounds like one of those ‘Choose Your Own Adventure’ stories! Why don’t we take this home and–whoa!” Mei-Lin exclaimed in surprise as a bright light surrounded herself and Koi, and she shut her eyes tightly, teeth gritting, “What on Earth is this?!” She then saw nothing but darkness, and once the light vanished, both girls were gone. Location: The Art Institute of Asia’s bookstore; Unknown town?! Mood: Confused, afraid and alone With: Was with Koi-chan, but now she’s gone! Clothes: Black and white dress, black stockings and black ankle- length boots. Hair is in pigtails tied by black ribbons and reaches down to lower back. Mei-Lin blinked her blue eyes open slowly, noticing it was still night. She saw the moon clearly up ahead, and she gave a groan of pain as she sat up and rubbed her head with a frown, “Ow, what the Heck?!” She rose shakily to her feet, then looked ahead to see a city in the distance, behind her the tree line leading into a forest. She turned around to face it, then turned again to face a great city-it looked like something out of a History book she’d read in school years ago. She leaned against a tree, her heart racing in her chest as fear seized her heart. “Where…am I? Wait!” She gasped and spun around, “Koi-chan?! Koi-chan, are you nearby?! Where are you?!” She called out desperately to her friend, panicking as the worst thoughts gave her dread. Was she dead? Were they both dead?! What was this place? What was that light?She fell to her knees and started crying and hugged herself in a vain attempt to keep herself from shaking with fright. The cold night air was adding to the chills in her skin, and it further served her distress. “K-Koi…Koi-chan…I…I wanna go home!” She shut her eyes and continued to sob, almost hyperventilating as she tried to figure out logically what this was, but her racing mind could not stand still. If this wasn’t a dream…but it couldn’t be a reality! Right? Suspicious: Pastless Wanderer Ashitare Location: On a dusty path towards Shunrou Capital City What am I Doing? Slowly walking down the path contemplating his decision. The dusty hard ground was all Ashitare could see as he looks down at the unfamiliar man made path. He looked back he could still the forest, his home, on the horizon. The lush green trees hiding the secret bamboo forest within. Animals all wound filling the forest with life and curious sounds. The thought of the forest gave him comfort. He could turn back now and return his familiar home. However, he turned around and shook his head. ‘No, I’m going to find her.’ Taking a deep breath he took one step forward and continued along his lonesome path. He looked up at the cold night sky, curious as to how it comforted him. He liked the cold of the night and the illuminating glow of the moon lighting his way to the city. It wasn’t far, but for his first journey it felt like it was miles away hidden across valleys of grass. Behind him he could hear the creek of a wagon slowly gaining behind him. He turned around to see a small wagon filled with sacks of rice being pulled by a old ox and manned by an even older man. He looked at the old man and began to move to the edge of the path to let him pass. The ox noticed the man and grunted, the old man man looked up as the ox made a grunt. Seeing the odd looking man with multicolored hair and fine clothing he stopped his wagon and spoke up. “sir are you alright?” Ashitare looked at the man surprised, he didn’t expect for the old man to call out. He gave a kind smile and nodded, “yes sir, I’m fine, I’m just headed to the city.” The old man looked Ashitare up and down, seeing as he didn’t have any weapons he ruled out bandit. The old man always believed in doing the right thing first, so he spoke up. “The roads are dangerous at night, if you’d like you may ride in the back of the wagon.” Ashitare was more than surprised, “oh! Well thank you sir, this is so very kind of you.” He made his way to the back of the wagon, before getting on he looked at the city. The houses all seem to merge together only small golden light from the square doors and windows separated the large unity of blackness. The moon glistened on the ornamented rooftops. Aspirate gave a soft whisper, like a prayer only the wind could hear “soon I will find you.” Getting in the back he sat on the edge as the wagon began to move once more. After Some Time Getting closer to the town Ashitare was wide awake looking at the scenery that passed him by. He turned his head up to the stars that glistened across the clear sky like a second road above him. He felt something familiar, as if her could ride that road in the sky. But why? Why did he feel this way? His answers lie in a past long forgotten. Ashitare has accepted his amnesia, realizing that his previous amnesia plus the sudden feeling of lost time was a sign that things may only get worse if he tries to pry into the past. There was a slight pain ovet his heart, he didn’t know what it was. How strange, I’ve never felt this before. His introspection was cut off as the old man spoke up. “Now what is this girl doing? How many people are out walking at such a late hour?” Ashitare turned his body and looked over the grain sacks to see a girl clinging to a tree shouting loudly near them. “Sir, can you please stop the cart?” The old man grunted but pulled the reins of the ox back. Ashitare hopped off the cart and slowly walked over to the strange shouting girl. From the distance he could only make out her small figure, however closer she could see her odd clothing. She wore a strange dress and accessories that he had never seen. It was strange, he has never seen anyone other than Rima and yet he knew this was not normal attire. He could see her tears and pulled out a handkerchief from his sleeve. Cautiously he approached the girl, “excuse me miss?” He raised his hand up palm open to show he meant no harm. With the other he extended her the handkerchief, “here.” He looked at the girl feeling sorry for her, “are you alright? Did you get separated from your group?” Assassin Namame~~~~~~~ Location : Grand Market Discrict of Touran Priestess Koi Miazaki Embarrassing, embarrassing, embarrassing. One could call him a one-track mind for attitudes such as this. But, much like an animal, Namame had always been someone that let his instincts command him entirely. One at a time. Sometimes out of impulse, sometimes out of reason. He was but a peculiar boy, one might say. He shook his head energetically, trying to drive off the conflicting emotion still lingering within him. He had let his guard down, showing himself to be a naive child instead of a strong Celestial Warrior. Shameful. Disgraceful. Ridiculous. A familiar voice reached his ears once again, making the young man turn back in a swift movement to find a rather taken back Gensho. Before he could question him in any fashion, he felt it. The symbol, the mysterious character carved into his skin which he had all this life…It was if as it had gained life. Pulsating over and over again, even covered by his clothes, he could feel it. It did not know what it meant, a few weeks back he had not even know of its origins. But one thing was clear for him. He had to run. He had to escape the palace. He had to fight his way through if he had to. He had to find her. Gensho yelled but he could not listen to him no more. His senses were blocked completely. He DoD not think, he did not hesitate for a second there. Namame grabbed the monk by his wrist, dragging him out of the castle in complete silence. That’s right…there were more like him. He was not alone. …But how could he know it was her? Gensho most likely knew how to identify her. But Namame? His expression faltered for a moment, as he felt at loss. His feet would lead him forward, his eyes wandering furtively through the crowd. Where was she? Where was she? They had to find her, they had to…! It all stopped. Time, space, sound, everything seemed to cease completely. There was only him, Gensho…and her. A young woman of bizarre vests, long flowing hair. Yes…it was her. His arm slowly reached for his left shoulder, tugging the fabric that hid away the warmth that graced his answer. The character of his Celestial Symbol, Wall, glowed intensely in his skin in bright green. But his gaze never once wavered away from her. “…The Priestess of Genbu…” Location: Shunrou Capital City What am I Doing? Taking the scenic route home. It was a beautiful creature–with scales that shone more brilliantly than any sapphire on earth. Enclosed in an aura of azure, it weaved its large, elongated body through the night sky the same way a snake might weave through the grass—fluidly and powerfully. However, to compare such a majestic creature to a mere snake was inappropriate. It was akin to comparing a lion to an ant. A mountain to a molehill! As if hearing the thoughts of its observer, the creature turned around…and opened its mouth. Kailai jolted awake, his breaths coming out in harsh pants and his heart thumping loudly in his ears. Taking a couple of moments to re-orient himself, Kailai looked around confusedly. He was still in the library. Did I fall asleep while reading? Kailai’s gaze landed on the ‘Universe of the Four Gods’ scroll, which lay unraveled on the table in front of him. Unable to help himself, Kailai let out a chuckle. It had been a while since he had fallen asleep from reading. Not only that, he’d dreamt about the guardian deity of Kutou trying to EAT him. “If my brothers find out about this, they’ll never let me hear the end of it,” Kailai muttered in an amused manner. Then he frowned, reaching for the back of neck where he could feel a warm, pulsating sensation. Strange…my mark has never reacted like that before. Shrugging his shoulders , Kailai cracked his neck, got to his feet, and glanced out the window. It was too late to visit the emperor. He’d have to come back to the Palace tomorrow and reveal his identity then. Carefully rolling up the ‘Universe of the Four Gods’, Kailai placed the scroll back in its usual position on one of the shelves before exiting the library. Nodding his thanks to the guards outside, Kailai left the palace and made his way back to the Wen Family compound. Before telling his Highness that I’m Tomo, I suppose I should first break the news to my family… Kailai paused. Then, slowly, the Imperial Librarian started walking in a different direction. Ah. There’s really no need to hurry. My family’s not going anywhere. I think I’ll take the scenic route home–enjoy a nice stroll before the big revelation. Mei-Lin felt as if she were trapped in her own mind, the fear refusing to let her go. Koi was missing, she was in a strange land that seemed familiar but was all too foreign, and she was alone. Mei-Lin hated to be alone, she always surrounded herself with people for that very reason. It wasn’t until a soft male voice released her from her thoughts that she finally looked up, still on her knees in the soft grass. Her dark blue eyes widened a bit as she stared up at one of the most intriguing and strange sights she ever laid eyes on: did this man really have black and white hair? He looked like something out of a fairy tale to her. At first she couldn’t really understand him-the dialect was different, but it was still Chinese. Ancient Chinese, it sounded like, she remembered from school. But as he spoke something strange began to happen-when she couldn’t quite understand what he was saying at first, she immediately began to comprehend his words, as if he were speaking her dialect of Chinese! What was going on here?! Since when could she understand an Ancient tongue? She gratefully took his handkerchief to wipe her tears away, giving him a soft yet sad smile, “Th-thank you, sir. Um, well, it’s kind of a strange story, but I’ve lost my friend. One moment she was with me, we were reading this book, and the next minute I woke up here outside this forest, and now she’s gone. I..I can’t find her anywhere, and I’m very worried.” She looked into the man’s eyes now, “Who are you? Thank you for coming to help me.” She smiled softly. Location: Near Shunrou Capital City Mood: Empathic What am I Doing? Trying to comfort a oddly dressed girl. The girl looked at him confused at first, as if she couldn’t understand him. He was worried that she may be deaf or blinded. However, poking into her blue eyes he could tell she could see him clearly. With such wide eyes she looked like a gentle innocent doe. Her hair and attire were so strange, she seemed so out of place in this world. Ashitare could empathize with her, waking up lost with no idea where you are. He listened to her tale not really understanding her situation. Maybe she was kidnapped or lost her memory as I have. Still unsure what happened to her, he knew he wouldn’t leave her alone in such a dangerous place. The old man said there were bandits roaming the woods. It would be troubling if they got a hold of this young girl, bandits were not the most gracious of people. “It was no trouble at all miss, I am Ashitare, a traveler. Your predicament is troubling to say the least. I can see why you are worried, but wandering around here at night is dangerous. There are bandits in these forests who attack at night. I am headded into Shunrou Capital City.” He gave her a warn smile to reassure her that he meant no harm. “It would be dishonorable of me to leave you here. Would you like a ride into town? I was lucky enough to meet a man who was kind enough to give me a ride. I am certain he would extend his kindness to you.” He stepped to the side to show her the ox pulled wagon waiting on the path. With a bashful smile he added, “I know it is not luxurious by any means, but it is the quickest way into the city.” Group: Gensho, Namame, Koi At a moments notice, the young boy took his comrade by the arm and dragged him along as he hurriedly tried to search for the priestess. Gensho knew that when they came close to her they may be able to recognize who it was due to some mystical bond they and the priestess were supposed to share. Half way through the run Gensho broke off the grip of his companion in order to make sure they were not being followed by anyone else. The young monk was certain that they were not the only ones that were able to sense the presence of such great mana. He wondered what they should do once the priestess is found. The other warriors were not assembled, and he did not trust the Minister of War with such a discovery. Having the priestess’ arrival made known in the empire would garner grave consequences for the people. He watched Namame stop dead in his tracks. Gensho started to locate her, as the intensity of the presence seemed to overwhelm him. He wondered if this was what it felt like being close to the priestess. As his young fellow warrior whispered, the priestess of Genbu was before them. ” ….and the otherworldly girl would be the salvation of our peoples…..” he said reciting an old text from the ancient writings of his monastery. He wondered whether she knew there was a symbol on her forehead that started to glow. Gensho saw his left hand, the light shining brightly even through the cloth of his glove. ” It is her….” She was in a panic, searching and calling out for someone named Mei apparently. Such actions would no doubt draw the attention of the populace and especially the Special Task Force of the Empire. With a howl of the wind, Gensho seemed to vanish from beside Namame and reappear just behind the Priestess. ” Forgive me.”he said while striking the priestess out cold with his staff. He caught her with his free arm. He had a moment to observe the glow of the Symbol before it dissipated.” Namame, quickly this way.” he said quietly carrying the priestess into an alley. Gensho knocked over a pot spilling its contents of water over the ground before them. He pulled a sutra shard and placed it on the water. It began to glow and the water which reflected them, became a gateway showing them another location.” Please, Quickly.” he told Namame this time it was him who was doing the dragging. They were brought into a small temple in the town near Hanun River. Location: Temple in the town near Hanun River What am I doing? Trying to break free, and strangling Gensho Koi had a glimpse of a tall white haired man and a petite, young boy before something hard hit her and she felt unconscious. Unprepared for what happened, she got carried away by those strangers with her mouth widely open due to all those shaking while both warriors were trying to escape from the crowd as quickly as they can. The girl was woken up when an insect almost similar to a butterfly landed between her upper lip and nose. It was so close to walking inside her mouth that upon impulse, her right hand shooed the insect away. Mmm…, she made such sounds as if she can still remember the hit that knocked her out. Opening her eyes slowly, she saw the face of the stranger she saw standing a while ago, she felt the big, manly arms that held her, and she also felt that her feet were dangling in mid-air. Fully waking up from unconsciousness, the girl’s eyes widened and she looked around in a panic as to what was going on. “Huh???”, she shouted in a very surprised tone as her body shook, her heart beat fast, and her face turned red, looking at the stranger who held her. “Huhhhhhh????!!!”, she exclaimed in a louder tone as she looked at her surroundings, where she saw the boy, the trees, the dark sky, the temple, and realized that she was alone with the two males. Thinking that she was ambushed and kidnapped, which seems to be that way, she shouted angrily at Gensho. “Are you trying to kidnap me????!!!”, she slapped Gensho on his right cheek. The slap was so hard and sounded so crispy that it made her hand slightly red. “Who are you people???!! You’re the stalkers I saw a while ago and I know you guys knocked me off!!!”, she kept shouting at them as her body strived to escape from Gensho’s arms. Her voice disturbed the silence of the temple and echoed throughout the whole place. Still trying to release herself, Koi grabbed Gensho’s scarf hard with both of her hands, pulled, and shook it violently, almost as if strangling him to disturb the stranger. “Let me gooo!!!!” “Ashitare? That’s an interesting name. My name is Mei-Lin Sung. You can call me Mei, if you want.” She gave the traveler a small smile, but her face fell when the male mentioned bandits roamed these woods. She gave an audible gulp as a look of worry crossed her features, “B-bandits?!” She looked around, seeing if there were any of them around. Luckily, it was only herself, Ashitare and an old man on a wagon being pulled by an Ox. “Shunrou Capital City? Oh! You mean that city over there?” She pointed to it, then looked back up at him with a smile, “I would love a ride into town, if the kind driver of the wagon permits it.” She bowed to the man at the wagon now, “May I please join you, sir?” She asked very formally and politely. She rose to her full height then and looked up into Ashitare’s eyes. Feeling her cheeks warm a little she gulped again and glanced down at the grass. “Thank you very much, Ashitare, you’re very kind to me. By the way, where exactly am I right now? I’ve never been here at all before in my life, at least I can’t recall.” She looked back up at him once more,”Oh! I’m afraid I don’t have much money or any home to go to, what should I do once I get to the city? Is there someone that can help me with those things there?” She felt more like Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz than her title role of Elphaba, being in a strange land and all. All she was missing was a basket, a puppy and a cute blue dress. But in that story, at least it was a dream…maybe. “I also need to find my friend, hopefully she’s in the city as well, she must be worried sick about me too! I really hope she’s doing okay…” Jun had been traveling for about a week now. She was looking for a new town to stay in. To be honest she had lost track of where she was which was a little irritating. The Prince hadn’t caught up with her yet which was good. While walking she noticed some people and a wagon!! “Yes! I can hitch ride!” She started running over their towards then yelling out Excuse me! Excuse me!” She the moment she made it closer she noticed a girl with strange clothing. “Um……what are you wearing?” She said bluntly then instead of waiting for answer she looked over at the wagon. “Hey mind if I can hitch a ride with you guys? I’ve been walking for days.” Mood: Warm What am I Doing? Conversing with Mei and being surprised by Jun. Ashitare listened to her as she spoke, Mei? What a interesting name. If she doesn’t know what Shunrou is she must be far away. The old man looked at the Mei and nodded, “of course miss, hop in back. We will be here a hour or less. This old ox isn’t what it he used to be.” Ashitare turned to Mei with a smile, he saw her bashful actions and became self cautious himself. He could feel the heat growing in his cheeks, and was lucky that she asked another question. “You are in Kutou, Shunrou is the capital of Kutou and home to the Imperial family of the Kutou Empire.” He paused for a moment not realizing that she didn’t have any money. Although, it would make sense if she was kidnapped or lost her memory. He could feel the weight of his own money pouch, which his dear friend gave to her. Contemplating for a moment he decided that he didn’t really need it and would give it to Mei. She was in more need of it than he was. Besides, I can survive on the land, I’d probably prefer it. Nature is where I feel most at home, and staying in the city sounds too strange to me. He looked at her and was about to speak when another girl came towards them. This one had flaming red hair, and was quite energetic. Surprised by the sudden burst of energy he was taken aback. “Oh, uh, I don’t see why not. Although it is not up to me, but the owner of the cart.” Ashitare turned to the old man yet again waiting on his reply. The old man thought in the back of his head that this boy seems to be a chick magnet, I swear if one more girl arrives, I will believe it. The old man grumbled and nodded, “yes, yes, I don’t see why not, but the young man will have to walk along side the wagon.” Ashitare spoke up, “I don’t mind sir.” The old man nodded and looked up at the sky, tracking the movements of the stars to predict the time. Ashitare looked at the two women, first looking to Mei, “do not worry miss Mei, I am certain you will find your friend and I will happily assist you in any way possible.” He turned to the woman with the scarlet hair, “and you as well miss. I know not of your story, but I believe strongly in doing good deeds for those who need assistance. In which case, I will do my best to be of assistance.” He stepped to the side, presenting the wagon to the two women. “Well shall we head to the Capital City?” Ryuko: ~A few months after the decree was announced~ The light sound of water flowing from the stream, the cheerful chirps of the birds, the bright and clear sky, and the feeling of the fresh morning breeze, a young man sitting by a creek savors the peaceful moment. Overwhelmed by the beautiful scenery, he quickly picks up his brush and replicate the view in a piece of Chinese calligraphy paper. After a few minutes, he firmly grips his drawing tool, slightly grinds his teeth, his brows begun to furrow, and his eyes is brimming with frustration. “A decree… huh…” He said to himself while looking up the sky. Then he carefully pulls down the clothing wrapped around his arm where the symbol is located, and touches his wrist with his fingers, and releases a deep sigh. The thought of being a Celestial warrior was never appealing to him. To him, the world they live in is already peaceful. Summoning the gods would only cause chaos and corruption; and the maiden should just return to where she came from, away from danger. This might also be beneficial in all sides. His eyes widened when the symbol suddenly appeared in luminous green, brighter than it ever reacted before and instantly disappeared, then a weird sensation crawling through his body immediately follows. “What was that?!” He uttered, and chuckled “Maybe I should lay off troubling myself about this nonsense eh? Passaro?” Showing a gentle smile while stroking the neck of his hawk with his pointer finger after it landed on his right shoulder. “Midou! Midou!” shouted an old woman from behind running towards him. He turned his head towards the direction of the call. “Midou!” huff huff “Your uncle! He…” The old lady (which Midou calls ‘Aunt’ though he was the grandmother of his late ex-girlfriend) and the black haired boy rushed back to the village only knowing that his uncle was already suffering a terrible disease. The herb that could temporarily help his uncle is heard to be available only at the City of Shunrou. The Capital City is quite far traveling from the North to the East but the young lad is very determined. “Have a safe journey, my son. Please don’t worry about us. I will take good care of uncle ’till your return” his aunt said before embracing him good bye. After gathering the sfuff he needs, he immediately travels to the location. The journey lasted for several days and nights before he finally arrives at night fall to the woods wherein the City is visible from afar. While walking, a soft voice with a tone of despair sparks his curiosity. Quietly following the sound, the ninja come across a maiden dressed in an unknown clothing crying behind a tree. Passaro flew all the way to a branch just on top of the mysterious lady. “This isn’t my business…and girls being emotional like that will just be a pain for us” trying to whisper to the bird as if it understands. He raised up his right heel to start walking, but he can’t seem to ignore the fact that the lady is different. Every time he tries to continue, he can’t keep his crimson red eyes away from the cute girl thinking if she might be the reason his symbol reacted, until a tall man with a weird taste for hair due approaches the young woman. Still fascinated by her appearance, he swiftly snucked up the tree peeking at a short distance and eavesdropping on their conversation. As the third person appears asking to hitch a ride to the city. Midou, having a keen sense, noticed a huge wild beast lurking behind the large bushes and creeping towards the strange maiden. Passaro flew and made one huge noise. “Duck!” Throwing his long-dark coloured claws tied up with chains, it swiftly brushed behind the long haired girl’s hair. Just before the beast could land a touch, he follows to the wagon with an amazing speed piercing the animal in its torso. The end of the right sharped-clawed weapon could be seen dripping with blood outside the left rib, and same with the other side. While his arms are still raising up the beast in the dark blue sky, he slightly tilted his head down, and his eyes focused again to the lady, as if there are no other people around. “Are you hurt?” “It must’ve picked up a strange scent…” he says as he removes the corpse from one hand to the other. Then he went closely face-to-face with the girl hoping for another celestial sign. “so you became an interesting prey.” Mei-Lin smiled and bowed to the man on the cart once more, “Thank you very much, kind sir!” She headed to the back of the wagon and stopped before as she got on it, looking at Ashitare in confusion, “Kutou Empire? And Shunrou is the Capitol?” She racked her brain, trying to recall her History courses in school…wait, did he say ‘Empire?’ Empires in China had not existed since the early nineteen-hundreds! That meant that she…somehow traveled back in time?! Was the book she and Koi read some sort of time portal?! But that meant time traveling was possible, and thus far humanity had yet to discover such a thing! She nodded to the male, “I see. Well, this is certainly my first time being in an Empire, that’s for sure! This’ll be a fun adventure!” She was about to hop on the cart when another voice-a female one-startled her. Location: Apparently The Kutou Empire Mood: Still confused, but less afraid and alone With: Ahsitare and a female stranger Mei-Lin turned to look at the woman with a surprised look on her face, but instantly she admired the way she looked, was she a female warrior of sorts? Because that would be pretty awesome. She was caught off-guard by the question about her dress for a second, “Er, this is-” She was cut off when the female asked for a ride as well, and the man allowed it provided Ashitare walked alongside, to which the traveler agreed. Mei-Lin grinned brightly to him, “You’re such a gentleman, Ashitare, thank you! You’re amazing, and so very helpful!” She hopped onto the wagon and waited for the woman to get on, looking to her now as well, “This is called a dress, it’s like…robes, but you have more freedom of movement. I’m Mei-Lin, by the way, What’s your name-huh?!” She felt a sudden burning on her forehead, and she touched at it when it began to throb, little knowing that a symbol of some sort was appearing there, and pulsing thanks to the presence of both Ashitare and the female stranger. “Wh-what the Heck is going in?!” She whispered frantically, trying to rub at her forehead in an attempt to get rid of it but to no avail, then covered it as she sat down in the cart in fear, not wanting attention on herself for once in her life-but the fear of garnering negative attention was imminent. Location : Temple of Hanun River Namame was abruptly pulled away from his state of shock…but could it really be called that? He was not so sure of it himself. Simply consumed by the sight before his own eyes…or maybe by the fact that this woman was now his and Gensho to give their life for? No, no, that could not be it. That was unthinkable, ridiculous. To show weakness was something he could have never afford to do. Never. But there he was, standing still, his eyes fixed on the bizarre-looking girl in panic. It was…almost pitiful to look at her. But at the same time, it was a sight that he could not avert his eyes from. Such was his fate from now on. To protect this female of unknown origins, to devote his life to her. That much was clear to him. The Gods sure worked in strange ways… But before he could approach her or even so much as making any movement… His eyes blinked as his body jolted ever so slightly, breaking apart his cold façade for brief seconds. He had seen him, he had heard him, he had felt him leave his side. But the moment Gensho send the young woman into a deep sleep, Namame’s body reacted on its own impulses. He approached the two of them. He didn’t what he was doing, what were his intentions. But it was not something good, not good at all. Danger? No, he could not sense it. Nothing made sense, it was all nothing but a blur to him. Only when the voice he knew well reached his ears that he gained full control over himself again. It all happened in a rush. All was mechanical once again. No out of impulse, not out of his….emotions?….And then, there they were, in an unfamiliar place, no trace of a soul, only the sound of Nature. Namame felt his shoulders flop ever so slightly down, his chest relaxing at long last. Had he been holding it in for all this time?…His eyes wandered through his surroundings. His feet lead him forward, the temple’s sight now growing closer and closer. Even though he was no entity of abundant knowledge, he could feel it within himself. A great power protected this place. Closing his eyes, he took a deep breath, any last remains of wariness leaving his body. They were safe, no danger, no threats. That was what he thought. But such foolish thoughts are not to be taken. Such was evidenced as the voice of a very, very distressed Priestess disturbed the peace. Namame slowly turned to find himself staring at the pair with an expression devoid of any distinct emotions. He kept his distance, however, showing a certain reluctance in even approaching the two… But why…? Location: Koukan Empire, Temple near Hanun River Gensho was surprised when the Priestess had awoken after being transported to their current location. He did not find her demeanor or attitude surprising considering her extraordinary situation, however it did not stop him from thinking how ungraceful it seemed, not to mention quite illogical. If he were in her position threatening the person who captured her would be far from what he would do much less slap the person. It would be in their best interest that he not lose his demeanor and patience because of her presumptuous actions. ” Calm down.” he said firmly, using little effort to pull apart her grip from him. He let her go with a small push away and put a little distance between them. The young man sighed with a displeasing countenance as if to say he expected more from the Priestess meant to bring Salvation to the people. He looked at Namame who stared at them with the same neutral expression. Gensho was certain he would be of no aid in this instance, for talking was not his specialty. Perhaps the choice of location was not correct. The young Monk chose a temple because it had a significance as a place holy, clean and free from malice. He had hoped this would offer some relief to the young girl. ” This one is named Gensho, this is my comrade Namame. “ he said in answer to her question. ” No harm will come upon you…you have my apologizes for taking you here without warning, but it was important to move out of the city. Are you aware of where you are? Or what has happened to you?” he asked the girl. Explaining what happened to her will help her to calm down is what Gensho believed. The young monk then laid his staff down and sat on the thick floor rug. He motioned for Namame to do the same. He hoped this would further ease her mind as a person who is seated cannot do much in terms of harming a person who is standing. Jun looked watched the guy and the old man in the cart. When gave the ok she smiled. “Awesome.” She next to the girl and noticed her rambling about something. Oh right the clothes apparently it was dress. The girl then introduced herself as Mei-Lin. Jun leaned back and relaxed herself. Her mannerisms at that moment seemed tomboyish. “It’s Jun just Jun.” Sometimes people try to ask for a last name. She never really did think of one so she just tell them plain and simple just Jun. She glanced over at Mei and noticed her franticly trying to cover head. Jun raised and eyebrow and said, “Hey are you alri-” She stopped when she suddenly felt her back burning. “The hell??” She mumbled to herself as she toughed her back swearing quietly to herself. She then took a quick glance at the girl. “I wonder…….” She then decide to just forget about it she already had enough trouble as it is. She didn’t need any strange things happening. She then looked ahead trying to ignore the throbbing on her back. Supicious: Ashitare could feel the heat growing across his face, form her complement. He was not used to such complements, having not heard one ever since Rima stop coming by. He gave a polite bow to the girl to show her his gratitude. “Thank you miss Mei.” He watched as the two women conversed between each other, standing behind them. He didn’t mind walking, besides for him to not give his seat away would be rude. Both women seemed to have worked hard and all he had done was step out of his home for the first time. Or was it? I wish I could remember. What happened to me? How did I loose so much of my memory? He shook his head trying to get the question out of his head. He knew that if he just sat and wondered, all it would do was leave him with a headache. Trying to avoid is introspection he tuned into the girls conversation. So this odd attire she in is a variation of a dress. He then turned to the girl who’s name was Jun, how interesting, she also has no surname. He thought that maybe this was common, come to think of it Rima didn’t have a surname either. He snapped out from his train of thought when a strange symbol appeared on Mei’s head. Going over to see what happened, he felt a strong pain over his heart. He winced in pain as his character burned on his chest. Swallowing the pain, he stood back up and looked at the two women. “Are you two alright?” Seeing as the pain subsided from Jun he turned his attention to Mei. He leaned into her face and looked at the symbol. Raising his hand he hesitated for a moment, “pardon me miss Mei.” He gently moved some of her hair around to get a better look at it. “Odd, it must be some kind of magical marking. You shouldn’t worry about it.” He gave her a kind smile, before standing up and taking a step back. He looked over to Jun, “are you alright miss Jun?” Mei-Lin looked to Jun in concern, seeing that she too was in pain as she was, and then Ashitare had that look about him as well. What the Heck was going on here, and why?! Was Mei herself the cause of all this, because of she was, she wanted no part in making others suffer. She looked up into Ashitare’s eyes and felt her cheeks darken again, scolding herself inwardly for that weird feeling every time she looked into those eyes. Now was not the time to admire this guy, however handsome he was! But when he felt his hand move her bangs out of the way to take a look at whatever was on her forehead, her heart stopped. She felt her breath hitch, then gave Ashitare an odd look, “Magical marking? You mean…gah?!” She rubbed at her forehead again, hissing as it burned her a little, “There’s something on my forehead?!” Mood: Scared and concerned With: Ahsitare and Jun Ah, if only she had her mirror on her! Then she would have seen what exactly Ashitare was talking about. She then looked at both Jun and Ashitare, “But…you both looked like you were in pain just now. Are you both alright?”She looked back and forth between them, biting her lower lip in worry. She then gave Jun an awkward smile, “By the way, you have a really pretty name, Jun! You can call me Mei!” She smiled a little, trying to make light of this weird scenario, then sighed, “I’m sorry all this strange stuff is happening, is there maybe someone that can help all three of us in the capitol?” She asked Ashitare. Goodness, she hoped so, if only to get whatever weird marking was on her forehead off-she couldn’t be on stage with that thing glowing all night! Then again, a thought occurred to her: would she be able to go home? And where the heck was poor Koi-chan?! Jun didn’t respond when Ashitare first asked if they were alright. She was trying to ignore it. Then finally it stopped she sighed in relief then she looked over at her when she heard her say Magical Marking. ” A marking huh?” She wondered if any mark had appeared on her back. She looked at Ashitare and answered him. “Yeah mines was on my back.” She was trying to figure just what the heck was going on. She smiled at Mei then said, “And I wouldn’t worry about it to much…who knows maybe this means I have powers that can help kick but better then before.” Yeah right she wished. Then something hit her. “Wait a min did you say the capital?!” How did she not realize where the heck she was heading. She was trying to het away from the capital. Then again maybe would recognize her. She did cut her hair and she has been gone for while. Plus this would be a good time to check out everything to see what’s going on. Plus she felt like if she justran away now it would make her feel like a coward. So instead she decided she would go but make sure to keep identity hidden. Location: Shunrou Capital City Gates, Kutou Empire. What am I Doing? Going to meet Senru’s forest friend. The city of Shunrou was quiet save for the occasional song of crickets and frogs. To many normal people, the night portrayed a sense of tranquility, stillness, and inactivity. However, to Kailai, it was as busy as any afternoon in the marketplace. Kailai could hear it all—the hooting of owls as they greeted one another, the chattering of crickets as they discussed the whereabouts of food, and the calling of a male frog as it searched for a lover. It was all very distracting, but—at the same time—reassuring. Arms folded in his sleeves, Kailai strolled through the empty streets, enjoying the night breeze that brushed against his hair. He passed a bulletin board with several wanted posters. Most of the posters depicted bandits that seemed to have made their homes in the woods outside of the city. However, there was one portrait that caught Kailai’s attention. It was a crudely drawn sketch of a beast of some sort. Kailai frowned, leaning over to read the description. A vicious, wild creature known to prey upon humans. Travellers beware. Any brave warrior that kills the beast and brings proof of its death to the palace will receive 100 gold by order of the Emperor. @Ryuko Seiko Kailai sighed. Logically, he knew such an order was necessary to protect the citizens of the city. Not all animals were friendly and quite a few in the forest preyed upon humans. However, as someone who could speak to animals, Kailai couldn’t help but feel saddened. It was misunderstandings like these and lack of communication that led to animosity—both in humans and animals. Ever since the mysterious death of the previous emperor and the disappearance of Princess Akemi—which essentially ended the royal Konishi line—the Kutou Empire had grown more militaristic under the leadership of the new emperor. It had allowed the country to grow more prosperous and the citizen’s lives to improve drastically, but at the cost of increased warfare. Hence the search for the Celestial Warriors. Kailai was diverted from his thoughts when he heard Senru call out to him. Glancing up, the Imperial Librarian caught sight of the falcon circling his head. He chuckled. “Well, aren’t you exited? Find your forest friend, did you?” Kailai tilted his head. “He’s coming here?” Kailai nodded, an amused smile on his face. “Sure, I’d love to meet him. Lead the way.” Kailai watched as Senru took to the skies. It had been a while since he’d seen Senru so lively. Brushing a stray lock of hair behind his ear, the Imperial Librarian followed Senru…but at a more leisurely pace. Half an hour later… When Kailai arrived at the city gates there seemed to be some sort of commotion. Armored guards surrounded a small ox-drawn wagon. “Who are you guys? What are you doing arriving at Imperial Capital so late at night? State your purpose.” “Look at her clothes!” One of the city guards pointed at the pigtailed-girl riding in the back. “She must be foreigner! And she’s covering something!” Another guard reached forward to yank the foreigner’s hand from her forehead. “What are you hiding? We won’t allow suspicious people into the city—,” What am I doing? Talking to Namame and Gensho The strange man and the boy were obviously displeased seeing her shake violently and eventually almost strangling one of them. She was pushed a little by the man who held her putting a distance between them, almost tripping her as her feet walked backwards. Luckily, though her balance was slightly a little wiggly at first, she managed to stand firm with her feet apart trying to stop them from taking another step. Her arms were both at her front close to her body, as if they were on guard for any attack she might receive. Koi looked at both men who indeed looks so strange. One of them was a little boy who just stared at her stoicly. He looked cute and innocent but him being involved in this “kidnapping” puzzled her a lot. She then looked at the tall man with white hair who held her not long ago. She was much more afraid of him even if the stranger’s face didn’t look like he was a bad guy. Both of them looked educated and they didn’t look like the usual gangsters with the gangster kind of face. The sight of the temple and the aura of the environment did calm her quite a bit, but it didn’t remove her fear and confusion for what was happening back then. Not to mention, her friend was still missing and a lot of strange experiences happened in less than an hour. The taller man then introduced himself and the boy as Gensho and Namame. She listened very attentively to the next sentences his mouth uttered. Gensho apologized and assured Koi that no harm will be done to her. He then asked her the same questions she was asking herself. Calmer than before, the girl couldn’t care if they were good or bad people now. She had no one to turn to and the experiences she had today was just overwhelming. Like a broken fosset, tears in her eyes seemed to come out of nowhere and dripped all over her cheeks. Her mouth contracted as if they want to wiggle, and her chest tightened up. Unconsciously, the maiden was already crying. “N-no… I’m sorry”, she apologized and answered in a shaky voice while wipping her cheeks and eyes with a handkerchief from her shoulder bag. The girl felt ashamed of crying in front of complete strangers. “I’m not from here. This place looks like ancient China., she described as she looked around not intending to mock the place. “I don’t know what’s happening. I w-was with my friend, and we went to a bookstore. And then we read this book titled Universe of the Four Gods. And then a light flashed at us and the next thing I knew was I was under the bridge near a town and my friend was missing”, she narrated in an unorganized manner as she stared at an empty space in between Namame and Gensho, trying to recall what happened.“Have you seen her?”, she asked them looking directly to their eyes, trying to ask for help. Sensing that the men will help her in some way and that they were there for her for some kind of reason she is yet to understand, she asked a question, “Why…Why did you get me? Who are you?” , asking the same question again, now with a different meaning. The young monk watched as the girl from the other world has been set by grief and started to cry. He could only listen to her explain what happened as anything he did may be perceived by her as inappropriate. At that time, he considered how she was at first angry and confused, which quickly was followed by sadness and worry. He looked over at Namame. ” Perhaps we should have some dinner prepared for us. ” he suggested as he noticed the shadows were lengthening through the halls of the temple. Gensho would stay behind with the priestess to explain a few things to her. ” Namame will get food ready for us…. It was not of our doing to have you brought here to us young lady.” he began. “ The ‘book’ you had in your possession, possess’ great magic. Strong enough it is to have brought you here to our world. If this one is not mistaken, there is a way for you to return home.” Gensho thought further on what she mentioned. The priestess said she was with a friend. Although she was not seen to be with her when the two celestial warriors came to her, he did believe in the possibility her friend was also meant to be in this world… as another priestess. Such a revelation concerned him about the future, but it would do no good to mention that to her now, as it was only a mere guess. ” If your friend was not with you perhaps she did not come with you. But if she has, she will be safe. That is something that can be assured.” he added. Gensho got up to unlock the doors of the temple. ” You have yet to share your name.” he said. Mood: Calm to Angered What am I Doing? Conversing with Mei and Jun, when some guards barged in. Ashitare wasn’t too worried about the marking, he thought it was only natural to have one. For as long as he remember the symbol on his chest was there. It is supposedly a symbol meaning Ashitare, at least that is what Rima told him. He smiled at Mei as she tried to rub it away. As she inquired on his won well being he gave her a soft smile, “I am fine Miss Mei, and you should not worry about the symbol, it will fade. Rubbing it will only make your forehead red.” He looked between the two girls as they conversed about the capital. He thought back to a falcon who seemed to come from the capital. His owner must be very wealthy to have such a prized creature. It is possible that he may be able to help them. I don’t know much of Jun’s predicament, but if a nobleman would be willing to help, he be much more useful than I. Turning to the two girls he spoke up, “I may know someone in the city who may help you two. It is a slim chance, but I see no harm in asking.” Before the girls could even answer the cart began to jerk forward. “Sorry the old ox does what he wants sometimes.” As the cart slowly headed closer towards the capital city Asitare followed behind. When they were at the capital gates the cart came to a sudden halt as a group of guards came up to them. From their brutish mannerisms and voice Ashitare knew that this would be trouble. He hadn’t been around men in years, but somehow remembered the stern tone and aggressive nature, he didn’t like it one bit. Ashitare spoke to the men, “we a simply weary travelers. Hey!” He walked over to the man who grabbed Mei’s arm and grabbed the man’s hand tight with his left hand and put his right on the man’s chest pushing him back. “Let go of her,” he said in a intimidating tone, he clenched down o the guard’s wrist causing him to wince a little. Ashitare held on tightly until the guard let go and stepped back. With a huff he looked at the guards “is this really how you treat travelers?” The old man was shocked by the sudden action. He just hoped that he wouldn’t be imprisoned for this, he had a family to provide for and tend to. He stayed quiet hoping that the guards would burn out of steam and let them pass with a warning. Keeping his head down someone caught his eye, he looked up. His face grew pale when he realized that it was a imperial lord. He turned to Ashitare, “hush boy do not cause a scene.” Mei-Lin looked to Jun, “You have one as well?” She then looked to Ashitare, “And you?” She had to admit, it felt good not being the odd man out in that respect, as she was the oddball of everyone by her ‘strange clothes.’ Did she really go back in time somehow?! She gave them both a smile,”I’m glad you guys are alright, I know we just met but I care about anyone who treats me with kindness.” She looked to Jun, “You already look like someone who can kick lots of butt, Jun! I really admire you for being a strong and independent woman!” She looked to Ashitare with hope in her eyes, “There is someone who can help us there?! Great! I wonder if he’s a wizard of some sort that can take me home!” She thought of the Wizard of Oz, and considering this was all too real, it wasn’t a far fetched idea. When the cart began to move she gasped in surprise, but then smiled to her new companions. “Yep, seems like we’re headed that way, Jun, but if Ashitare is right there is someone there to help us both!” She said with the utmost confidence. Location: Apparently The Kutou Empire; now the capital gate With: Ahsitare and Jun; there are guards at the gate with some Lord When they got to the gates, however, Mei’s hopes were dashed. Already the guards were hostile, apparently they did not like foreigners in their city-and she was the one that had to stand out the most. She stood up,”W-wait a second, I just came to ask for help–ahh!” She screamed as a guard grabbed her arm, and as Ashitare came to her rescue, the symbol on her forehead glowed brighter than before, and in the skies the sound of lightning began to crackle-and it was a clear day. She glared at the men, her heart racing in fear as she tried to stand her ground. “Look, we mean no one any harm, alright?! I need to see someone that can help me in the city, so please, let us pass?” She said with urgency but with a strong firm tone as well. Her look softened as her dark blue eyes rested on Ashitare, “Thank you, again, for saving me, Ashitare.” She then looked to the skies, “Um…did anyone one else hear thunder earlier…?” Date; September 2 Location; Koukan Empire, West Side Touran It had been several months since a Decree by the Emperor to find the Warriors of Genbu came out. Well, that was fine and all but one person in particular didn’t really care. Hak. He is a Celestial warrior of Genbu, supposed to answer the calls of the Empire. To discuss a duty he was well informed of from a early age. Quite frankly, He eluded the Search force sent by the War Minister almost hilariously. He had more or else actually tailed them back to Touran fairly recently. As such, he had two choices that day; Go the the Palace or go to the Tavern. He elected to go for a drink, the plan would be to go to the Palace later to make himself known. Several days passed since and he had completely forgotten about the summons. Come to the present day, Hak woke up in a room. he remembered that he had almost got caught by the Search Force and forced himself to hide in the more dangerous parts of Touran; the West side. Even though many tired the attack him or swindle him, he usually beat them back either with words or literally beating the crap out of them in frustration. Yesterday he had helped some women get away from a group of thugs who more or less wanted them for devious things. It eventually became known that a man in west side helped people out. He kept his identity a secret, especially since those in the Palace know what he looks like. And it was like that, he was staying at a place above a tavern in the west side close to one of the exits for a quick getaway. But that wasn’t why he woke up, he had a strange feeling on his chest. Literally. He pulled back his shirt and saw his mark pulsating. “What the heck?” The first thing he thought was that if he was still drunk. But he didn’t feel like crap.. He knew what this meant, and he moved quickly. Grabbing his sword he left his other weapon behind. Quickly heading towards where he felt to go, he hurried quickly. Eventually finding himself in the Grand Market District. he looked around as the pulsating got more apparent. Turning a few corners, he eventually came across an unusual site. The girl was wearing strange clothes, calling out for someones name. ‘Oy oy, not very discreet?’ Suddenly, two man were near her, thinking that he should remember who they were, one of them, a Monk, suddenly moved behind her and knocked her out. ‘Oh crap..’ Hak moved quickly, but they moved quicker. As he got closer they left through the ground, Hak instantly knew he used magic. Before he could jump in to follow, the portal closed and became a normal puddle of water. The Pulsing was still there, but wasn’t as strong. Where did they go? Hak stood there… then started to have a headache. “Ah… Hangover…” He suddenly heaved and threw up. After that, he decided the best course of action was to remain in Touran for the time being. ‘The Priestess is here, which means those two were most likely the other Celestial warriors.. Did they take her to the Minister?’ He was sitting in a bar, strangely not drinking as much. But he figured, he may as well wait for them. He knew the girl’s face. While thinking about this he took a big gulp of his drink. “Still sucks compared to the villages…” Helral: Mitsuhide Location: Seiryuu Court Activity: Visiting library after work. Mitsuhide was finally done with his work in the treasury. Afterwards he decided to visit the library. Still dressed in his court outfit he slowly walked towards the library. The outfit isn’t as restricting as it seems to be, although he is forced to take short steps. For anyone who doesn’t know him, he seems unarmed. All he’s carrying about is his fan. Arriving at the library he walks through it, in search of more books about signs and symbols. On passing he notices Kailai, the thought ‘now there’s an odd sight, a sleeping head librarian.’ passes through his mind as his eyes fall upon the scroll. Not wanting to disturb him he moved on towards the books and starts browsing the titles. Several titles pass his eyes, Family symbols, Military companies. Mitsuhide sighs, he has already read and committed all of these to memory, but none matched the symbol on his shoulder. While browsing he suddenly senses the symbol on his shoulder growing warm. Quickly looking around he sees nobody nearby, and lets out a sigh of relieve. ‘Why would it do that now, after being silent for so many years…. Maybe Kailai could help me finding information about it.’, he thinks as he decides to reveal his mark for the first time to someone else. After deciding this he goes back to where he saw Kailai, but he isn’t there anymore. “Just my luck”, he mumbles as he moves off to search the library for Kailai. While searching for Kailai he meets up with another librarian, keeping that librarian in his sight Mitsuhide wonders whether or not he knows where Kailai went. Taking his time Mitsuhide finally decides to ask the librarian where he can find Kailai. “Excuse, do you know where the Kailai, the head librarian is?”. ‘I saw him leave the library some time ago. Is there anything else I can help you with?‘, Mitsuhide sighs as he hears the librarians response. “Well, I guess I’ll go back and browse through some more symbols. Can you get me a book containing rare symbols or markings?”. The librarian nods and moves off. Moving to a nearby table Mitsuhide awaits the librarians return. While waiting he thinks about how he should approach Kailai when he sees him again. His thoughts get interrupted as the librarian returns with a book containing legends, ‘I’ve read this once, and there are some symbols mentioned here.‘ To prove this the librarian places the book open in front of Mitsuhide on a page containing a drawing of a person with a marking. Sadly the marking is ineligible. “Thank you”, Mitsuhide says as the librarian moves away to continue what he was doing. Jun looked over at Ashitare and was about to speak when suddenly the cart jerked. She then settled back into her seat and looked at Mei. “Yeah trust me there isn’t a single person in that capital that can help me.” She smiled a laughed a little to herself. “Besides I don’t need any help I’ve been ok so far on my own.” As they reached the gates to the city the cart stopped. then a group of guards headed towards them. “Crap….” Jun thought for moment maybe they wouldn’t recognize her. She decided not to hide her face and see if the guards knew her face. The guards seem hostel, no surprise there. Suddenly one of the guards grabbed Mei. Jun was about to help but Asjhitare ended up taken care of it. But wow did that girl’s symbol glow bright. Jun wondered who the heck this person really was. Jun looked over at Mei, “Nice looks you can stand up for yourself. And yeah I didn’t hear thunder….I think that was you.” As she was talking to Mei one of the guards walked up to her. “Hey! Haven’t I seen you before?” Jun cussed in her head then turned around. “Um nope never been here in my life.” The guard stared her. “You sure cause you really look like Prin-” The guard fell to the ground in mid sentence. Jun had punched him and got knocked out. She then cracked her knuckles. “Can’t believe that guard was so easy to knock out.” She might had made thing s little worse but she didn’t care she would take them all on if needed be. What am I Doing? Breaking up a fight. Kailai frowned, wondering why the city guards had stopped the small cart from entering Shunrou. It appeared to be a normal-looking wagon driven by an elderly man. Surely an old man and a small group of travelers didn’t require so many guards. There were even a couple of girls riding in the back—granted one of them was oddly dressed. Kailai frowned, trying to recall if there was a country that wore such unique black and white attires. However, before he got a chance to ponder his inquiry, things took a turn towards violence. “What’s going o—,” Kailai stepped forward only to stop, his jaw dropping slightly at what he saw. A blue light emitted from the pig-tailed girl’s forehead where the character for Seiryuu appeared. He could feel his own celestial mark beating in response. She can’t be— “Sorceress!” One guard glanced warily at the sky. Another guard supported his knocked-out comrade while the rest of the soldiers took an aggressive stance. “Enemies—possibly rebels! They’re trying to infiltrate the city!” “Someone sound the alarms!” “STOP!” Kailai shouted in the most authoritative voice he could muster. It was only a pale imitation of his father deep commanding tone, but it managed to interrupt the chaos nonetheless. All the guards turned towards him. Some had relief on their faces…at least until they heard Kailai’s following order. “Everyone put down your weapons this instant.” “B-but Lord Wen! They—,” Senru screeched and swooped down, landing on one of the travelers’ shoulders—the pale one with black and white hair. So this is Senru’s forest friend. “—are my guests,” Kailai finished, watching his best friend peck affectionately at the handsome stranger’s ear. He ignored the incredulous looks he received and approached the group of travelers in a friendly manner. His eyes flickered to the pig-tailed girl wearing a strange dress. I can’t be sure if I’m right about her—at least until I double-check the scroll—but if I am, she may very well be Kutou’s savior. Placing his right fist in his left palm, he greeted them. “I apologize for the rude welcome. My name is Kailai Wen, scion of the Wen family and third son of General Bakryuu.” Kailai paused, a sardonic smile forming on his lips. “But you can also call me Tomo. It’s a pleasure to make your acquaintance.” Assassin Namame Namame was now but a figure lurking in the shadows watching over the monk and the priestess with what appeared to be little to no interest. A separate entity, as if a barrier stood between him and them, as the bizarre female seemed to settle down and show willingness to abide to Gensho’s attempts to lead this to a civilized conversation. Lost in his own thoughts, the boy’s attention was brought back to them as his name was spoken in the distance. What was it? Why had they spoken his name? Was something wrong? Was it something important? His doubts were cleared in the moment the white haired male motioned him to come forth and join them. Reluctance would be a euphemism in order to describe what he felt towards this action. Was it really necessary for him to do so? He was most likely of no use in this situation. But if he refused…? Sighing, the young assassin allowed his feet to lead him towards the man and the woman, sitting down by Gensho’s side in absolute silence. The moment Koi joined them in a soon-to-be circle, however, did not go uncertain from his part. His immediate reaction was of a subtle jolt, followed by an attempt to keep a certain distance from her. Koi seemed to break down little by little, her voice trembling as she spoke, something that he could not find help but feel most…uncomfortable just by beholding the sight of her baring herself before them like that. Perhaps because he felt no empathy towards his stranger whom he was supposed to protect. He couldn’t even remember the last time he had cried, much less knowing of what to do in a scenario like this. He would simply glance her from the corner of his eye, his body stiff, tense. What could this be, this narrowing feeling inside him? Annoyance? Confusion? Frustration? The moment their eyes met shunned any chances of this action to go any further, making Namame violently reject her gaze and thus, refusing to answer her question. It was not as if he knew any better anyhow… He could not be more grateful for Gensho’s intervention as the latter turned to face him. A wise decision too, as expected of someone like him. The night was coming. They should not be careless, even in such an isolated place. He nodded his head and quietly left his…companions? Could he really call them that as of now? He was not sure, not sure at all. But no matter, he had a task to do. He could might as well get started instead of wasting his time thinking about trivial things. He found himself left to his solitude in an unknown area, surrounded by plant life. But for some reason, that did not inflict him with any signs of wariness or hostility in the least. Animals and plants had always been something he felt rather comfortable to be around. As if he was amongst his own. Such would most likely not come off as a surprise for those who knew him… Now, what was there to do…? Food, food…well, a river was nearby. Perhaps some fish could be caught there. Berries and other fruits could also work too. Eh, it was strange…even after so long living in the estate, the thought of hunting and whatnot would come to him quite naturally. Well, habits die hard, as his master would say whenever he would reach for his missing arm, touching nothing but air with his gentle smile that never wavered. Namame did not waste any time. Soon after, he would raise three fishes in a…victorious fashion, if you could call it that. He could do this much, it was really nothing to be so proud of…how childish. But then, something assaulted him in that exact instant. Did Priestesses eat fish? Or rather, did people eat fish in her world? “….Hm….” His confidence faltered as he confronted this issue. Gensho surely expected him to get food for all the three of them… Agh, why was he so concerned about this? The woman was in this world now, she had to grow used to their mores eventually, did she not? But even his argument would not stop his feet from heading further into the forest. He should find something else for her to eat in here…but what? His eyes darted from trees to grass, his ears careful to not miss any sign of a presence nearby. And thus, it paid off. Caws in the distance would faintly reach him, bringing a sense of relief to him. Perhaps a bird would do the trick. But the moment he arrived at the place emanating these sounds, Namame felt as if his heart sank. He stood speechless, staring at the sight before him wide-eyed, holding his breath for what to seem an eternity. The bird was small, fragile just by its looks alone. It cried out in despair, cries of help, fear, pain. The crow was merciless, its craving for the small creature growing more and more, it kept attacking it. Again. Again. Again. Until the blade of death was carved in its breast, blood dripping down its black form. With one last caw, it succumbed to numbness. Again. Again. Again. Blood spilled, staining his face, his clothes. But he didn’t stop. He did not stop until it stopped breathing completely. Until its warm vanished completely. It took him a while to move again, his hand trembling ever so slightly before he let go of the corpse. His eyes followed the trail of scarlet where a dying baby bird fought to keep breathing. The young man simply picked it up as gently as he could, as if cradling the creature in his hands. And like that he stood, impassible, incapable of doing anything. No hope was left for the weak. That was…what he had learned that day. “End his pain, Wei Lun.” A gentle, kind voice, hands upon his shoulder. Cold, so cold. “He’s in pain. Do you want to see your friend in pain?” Cold hands. Such cold hands over his. Now, a head, a small head. “There is no hope left for him, child.” No, no, no. Tears stream down his face. His head shakes again and again. He can’t hear it. He can’t… “It’s an order, Wei Lun.” And then, all its darkness from him. He is blinded, stolen away, he disappeared. The neck is broken. The body falls on the ground. Breathing ceases. It’s cold. It’s so, so cold. Namame screams. The night had came and so he returned. Carrying the three fishes, fruits, berries…a decent seems to be in store for the trio. And his clothes are scarlet here and there, as well as his cheeks. Ah, he had forgotten those spots. But at least his hands are clean. He won’t spoil the meal. “Gensho.” He calls the older Celestial, gesturing the food towards him, as if awaiting for his approval or disapproval. Warrior Toyu Location : Yangzhou bathhouse, Shunrou Capital City What am I doing? : Enjoying the hospitality of the Famous Public Bathhouse, after a rigorous training session. One of the few pleasures that Toyu enjoyed was to head to the Yangzhou bathhouse, rather than go back to the barracks with the other officers. He was never really one for mixing it with his fellows, though he let them think that they were worthy of his attention. A military man that lived and breathed his life of service to the Emperor. Few could fault him upon the training fields, and he had proved his worth many a time in active service. Some say he had no heart, others whispered about his fallen father. None dared speak it to his face however. Not if they valued their life. So when he turned in the direction of the city commercial district, there were none that batted an eyelid, nor asked after him. It was just how it was. Approaching the bathhouse, that was modestly signed from the outside – Toyu let out a contented sigh. His body ached after the rigorous training, and he could really use this time to reflect and simply enjoy the pleasures that the bathhouse attendants offered. One young girl was already waiting at the door. Her black hair pulled back into a neat bun, and she bowed low as Toyu approached. “Welcome again, Boss.” “Mmm.” The girl was lucky to even illicit a reaction or sound from him at all. His face showed no emotion as he passed her, and she quickly hurried on in, ringing a small brass bell to alert the other attendants that they had a very distinguished client. Whilst Toyu was not a “Boss” per say, that was the term used by the attendants to all the notable clients. Being one of the Emperor’s own, he wore the colorful cape, that draped over his shoulders and covered half of his chest. His weapons strapped to his belt, which he would remove along with the rest of his kit, once he had entered the inner sanctum. Within the bathhouse, the lighting was dim and the air filled with the scent of exotic burning oils that helped to relax the clients and make them feel right at home. Here was a place, where he could be treated like the Emperor himself and it was something that Toyu truly didn’t mind. Lead out into a larger room, where there were other half naked males already being seen to by their attendants. Waiters that held their clothing on long poles, that kept their valuables and clothing on a pile at the very top. At least three metres from the ground. This was to ensure the safety of their belongings – another notable service. Being led to a seat, Toyu started to remove his armor shoulder guards, and then his sword belt which he handed to two separate waiters. The weight of his armor was such it was a little bit too heavy for the poles. Toyu could feel the eyes of a few other men, possibly politicians or wealthy merchants gazing at his well toned physique. It was not uncommon to be considered attractive, even to men. Toyu acted as though it didn’t phase him, making a bit of a show of removing his clothes, and kicking off his boots. As he went to sit, a pretty attendant came in and offered him a cup of green tea – part and parcel of the services. It was to help the Warrior relax, and Toyu accepted the cup without word. The young girl hovered for a moment, as though something had caught her eye. Being that Toyu was now shirtless it wasn’t uncommon for the girls to stare. But what she was staring at, was something that even he didn’t expect. He could feel the slight twinge sensation. For a moment he thought that she might have spilled tea on him, but on looking down he see the burning symbol that was now glowing on his chest. The warrior’s eyes narrowed as he set down his cup on the side of the wooden bench, and then ran the tip of his finger over the symbol. “it’s never burnt like this before” Toyu thought to himself. Glancing up, he could see the girl was ogling it now almost like she was mesmerized by the glowing mark. When she saw that the warrior was now staring directly at her, as though he could incinerate her just with his gaze, the young girl caught herself and snapped back to reality. She squeaked that the warrior would need his hot towel, while his clothing was raised on the pole. But with what was happening to him, he knew that the time for lazing in the steaming waters would have to wait. Was this the sign? Was this the moment he had been waiting for in what felt like forever? Growling angrily, he snatched back his clothing and hastily started to dress himself again. Toyu needed to find the answers as to why his mark had come to life. He had almost finished fixing on his cape, when he heard the sounds of raised voices that were coming from a short distance away. “Enemies—possibly rebels! They’re trying to infiltrate the city!” Hearing the commotion, Toyu tied off his belt and with his boots put on a little haphazardly, the statuesque warrior thundered back outside, only to see some sort of altercation occurring near the city gates. A wagon – nothing really out of the ordinary there, but as Toyu drew closer he heard the sound of the Imperial Librarian’s voice. It was unmistakable, and he said loudly – “I apologize for the rude welcome. My name is Kailai Wen, scion of the Wen family and third son of General Bakryuu.” A name dropper. It was one of the things that Toyu simply refused to do. No point dragging up the wretched history of his family, when Toyu had been able to carve out a name for himself. Stopping just a few feet away from the gathered group, the blonde haired warrior folded his arms, as the guards appeared to take the Imperial Librarian at his word. But it was the next part that caught Toyu off guard. “But you can also call me Tomo. It’s a pleasure to make your acquaintance.” Toyu’s blue eyes narrowed on hearing this and even more so when he saw the young girl with the pig tails in the strange clothing. She certainly didn’t look local at all. The warrior took another two steps and saw the flash of what was a blue symbol that had glowed from her forehead. Surely he was mistaken. Could this….child be….the one? Seeing an opportunity to make himself known, Toyu strolled up, with his arms being dropped to his sides till he came to one of the guards who had yelled so shrilly about the ….enemy invaders. Snatching up one from the scruff of the back of his neck, he lifted him high enough so that his feet dangled precariously underneath him. “These….don’t look like murderous rebels to me.” Toyu’s fingers dug hard into the back of the scared guard’s neck as Toyu then gave a sly smile towards ‘Tomo.” “Ah Lord Wen. How nice to see that you have taken to manning the gates, instead of dusting the tomes in the Imperial Library. All this…excitement must be invigorating for you, hmm?” Toyu let the guard fall suddenly and without warning so he landed in a crumpled heap. As the guard tried to crawl away, Toyu made sure to stomp on his hand as he approached the young girl with pigtails, who may well have found all this a little intimidating. “Let me guess, you’re….a Princess travelling in disguise?” Toyu blatantly ignored the others that were her travelling companions, as he had already found this girl to be more than interesting. November 8, 2015 / razorbackwriteraus / Leave a comment A new collaborative with ricegoddess. Few ever dared to go this deep into the darkened forest after the sun had set. Only the most courageous or stupid would hire a coach to take them north of Flinders Peak. But there had been a change in the guard, and while the roads were often only used by farmers that needed to get their crops and herds to market, it would be now that a blackened coach that was pulled by a team of four jet black horse, galloped along the gravel track. Death, which was not uncommon to the down trodden, happened at the Craxton Park. Whispers from the local village had spoken of how the Late Lord’s estate had been to a left to a mysterious cousin, who had been out of the country for well over decade. The red satin curtains that lined the windows, hid the face of this newest heir to the Lord’s estate. Would they suffer…the same fate? And what of the young widow, that had not left Craxton since the funeral? Yet another mystery to be unraveled. RG: This was possibly the stupidest idea in the whole world. Well, maybe that was an exaggeration, but it made it to the top five at least. Children always joke about walking down the path heading to the north towards the “haunted” estate, even daring their friends to take the journey. Of course, no one ever went through with the dares. Except today. Ethan anxiously gripped his dark trousers, releasing it and then gripping it again. He can hear his friends howling at him, trying to “encourage” him to walk down the path and to “check things out for them”. Ethan was terrified of the forest but he never admitted it aloud. It’s just a scary story, right? It’s not really… Cursed, right? Rumors always circled Ethan’s village about murders, ghosts, curses, and deaths related to this estate in the dark forest. The story was always changing, so no one ever knew what had actually happened to the Late Lord. And a bet was made today that Ethan would be the one to find out what happened and report back. When Ethan finally gathered up enough courage, he took a timid step onto the hard road, and then another… Before he knew it, he was far into the darkened forest. A lone crow’s cry causes the young man to jump in fright, quickly looking around before continuing to walk slowly. He couldn’t hear his friends’ loud voices anymore, whether they ran away when his back was turned or he was just too far away, he didn’t know. Glancing around the forest, the setting sun’s lights only helped in creating large, intimidating shadows around Ethan. He wrapped his arms around himself, his short, dark blond hair being ruffled by a passing wind. His honey colored eyes dart at each subtle movement, darting at each sudden sound he hear. He shook because of the fact that he forgot to bring a light jacket with him, being cold in pale blue t-shirt, and also for the fact that was he was scared out of his mind. Amazing how much the landscape changes, just by the setting of the sun. Shadows stretch on forever, and this is also the time when the night creatures come out from their burrows and knotted stumps. Under the cloak of darkness, and only bathed by the moon’s light when it peaked out from behind a grey cloud – the many small creatures went about their evening as per normal. But this place. This cursed place was not for the faint of heart. If the signage did not warn off the curious, than the narrowing of the path, and the overhanging branches that encroached upon the winding road only made the trip forward very hard going. Was someone going to dare to make it through? Children and the young at heart often egged on the weak, to test their spirit and their resolve. Tales told by travelers and merchants around the fires of the local inn – fueled by drink and bravado, were not favorable of the terrible Lord of Craxton Park. He did his farmers and workers no favors, and often kept pretty much to himself within the walls of his Manor. Only sending out his man servant to pay wages and arrange business dealings on his behalf. The more one keeps to themselves, the likelihood of gossip and innuendo spreading across the lands. He could be just a miserly recluse, but there were other events, strange and terrible that happened every time he returned from abroad. On his last trip, he did not return alone. Bringing with him a new wife. The only knowledge of her, was when she had come into town with a black veil to order a dress to be made at the seamstress. She already looked as though she was dressed for a funeral. It was not long after this time, that it was said that he passed on from this earth to the next. Though the villages were not welcome to the funeral. The hearse had passed through the town, with just the widow and the man servant following the hearse. Even then, her face was covered and it all seemed to be so strange. There was no autopsy, no word on how he died. Just a simple parchment hammered to a tree in the village square. But back to this night, when a young lad decided to take his chances and see just how far he got, on the road to Craxton Hall. He had long left his friends behind, and he carried no torch or light. His colorings however did illuminate in the light of the moon. Just enough to be seen by those with exceptional vision at night. “Only the brave or foolish dare walk this path.” It was a feminine voice, that spoke as the mist enveloped the roadway. A cool breeze nipping at the boy’s neck. If he did turn, he would see the prettiest girl he had ever seen, though she had a haunting smile. Dark flowing hair that was tied back fashionably, and wearing a flowing black gown of the age. “Which are you?” She asked. The young man felt a sharp chill run up his spine at her voice, slowly peeking over his shoulder at her. The images of haggard, old witches quickly dispel from his mind when his eyes fall on her, put off by her beauty. The question came back to his mind again, gathering up enough confidence in that moment to reply to her, “I-I’m brave enough to walk the path!” Ethan felt mild embarrassment at his stutter, but he took the moment to examine her appearance. Despite her dress blending in so well with the shadows and being shrouded by the sudden mist, he can still see her practically perfect figure clearly under the moonlight, and… Was that a sparkle in her eyes? He shivered at the realization, unsure whether the shine was a bad sign or a good one. He tugs on the sleeve of his tunic, having become nervous when they lock eyes for a brief moment, looking away quickly after. The quiet cry of a crow seems to mock his nervousness, but Ethan stands his ground, hesitantly speaking up again, “May.. I ask why you’re out here? Are you also brave…?” Just pulling out questions that came quickly to his mind, he momentarily forgets about the cursed estate and its widow, shifting on his feet while he holds the edge of his sleeve, still trembling slightly from his nerves and the chill. If Florina had meant to startle the young man on his trip into the forest, she did a good job. Though, he may never admit his fear it was easy to tell by the way in which he stuttered out that he was in fact brave enough to walk this way. “Mhmmm.” Was all that the strange woman said in return as though she was mocking his answer. Her crimson stained lips curved upward into a smile that was both wicked and fun. It was almost as though she enjoyed toying with the man. Funny how the moon’s soft light brought out a sparkle in her eyes. Collecting the edges of her lace and silk skirt, she circled around the young man, looking him up and down, as though he was intriguing. It may well make him all the more nervous. A crow’s call only added to the mix, making the scene even more bizarre. Ethan stood his ground however, and was bold enough to ask of her what she was doing out here. Why was she also brave? The reaction was for Florina to stop in her tracks and whip out an ornate black fan. Snapping it open with the flick of her wrist, and fluttering it about like one of those fine ladies of the royal court. “I wouldn’t say I am brave…just I prefer to walk beneath the light of the Moon. You see I am very fair and burn easy under the heat of the Sun. Think of this as my daily stroll.”What she just said could have been taken a different way from what was offered. Perhaps there was more to the Widow of Craxton Hall then met the eye. She did have porcelain skin that seemed to be radiant underneath the starry night sky. It even heightened the colour of her eyes, and the red rouge of her cheeks. Almost like a fine china doll. Perfection. Yes that was the word you would use. Florina could see that the young man was feeling the cold, having just come out in a light tunic. It was enough to have Florina ask of him. “Craxton is but a short walk up this road. Care for a night cap? A hot beverage?” The black haired vixen then lowered her fan closing it slowly and offering her gloved hand. Should he take it? Or did he need to know just who she really was? Her circling did make him more nervous than he already was. It almost felt like she was a predator hunting and cornering its prey. But he did perked up at the mention of her fair skin. It did make sense with how her skin glowed under the moonlight, looking incredibly smooth and soft to the touch. The color of her lips and her cheeks complimented her appearance well, making her look very beautiful in Ethan’s eyes, but it was also a very sinister appearance. It made the young man uneasy, but he couldn’t take his eyes off of her either way. Her movements were graceful and elegant, the fan being a nice touch. Craxton? The name rang bells in Ethan’s mind, but he couldn’t quite place where he heard the name from… He looks at her small, gloved hand, tempted by her beauty to accept her offer, but his heart thumped loudly and nervously. He didn’t know who she was, but the hot beverage was very welcoming on the chilly night. “May I ask for a name at least?” Ethan looked back up at her face, “My name is Ethan…” How delicious. Florina thought, as she watched the young man’s chest rise and fall sharply. Each breath he drew was making his heart beat faster. If it had been any louder, it would have echoed out from his chest. All this from the simple gesture of offering her hand for him to take. She noted how he appeared timid at her suggestion. Begging the question as to what her name was. This would unravel the mystery of her identity. Dare she keep him further in suspense? Curling in her bottom lip, she made out as though it was a great secret. Leaning forward to whisper her name so softly that he may barely hear it. “Lady Florina Craxton.” Only when he had said his name, did she draw back with a cat like grace. Her bottom lip released from the bite of her teeth and it appeared more plump than before. “Ethan. Such a wise choice of name by your parents.” Her smile grew as she continued with a tit bit of trivia. “I do believe it means strong.” Florina had to be the Queen of small talk. Knowing that the young man still may be wary, she lowered her hand and then snatched up the edge of her skirt, in order for her to be able to walk on without getting the lace edge caught on the ground. “Well, I am ready for that night cap. You are welcome to follow, or return to the village. I shan’t tempt you further.” And with that, she continued on down the path, leaving the young man to his thoughts. “Good eve, Ethan.” Strangely enough as she left the scene, so to did the rolling mist. It was almost as though it traveled with her. Lady Florina Craxton… Ethan thought, the name was very fitting for her he believed. He felt his cheeks grow warm at the indirect compliment of his name, unknowingly giving a tiny smile. But when she left, his heart relaxed its beating and his shivers reduced to trembles as his body is now only trying to keep him warm. He blinked his eyes, noticing how much clearer his surroundings became as the mist left with the Lady. Ethan didn’t get a chance to wish her a good night, but he glances over his shoulder back towards his village, then looks back to where Lady Florina had walked. Would he follow her? He was tempted to, oh so very tempted to. The young man’s mind was practically screaming at him to run since he had the chance, but his heart yearned to know more about the mysterious, beautiful woman he just met. Ethan had meet many women in his life, his parents always trying to set him up and even arrange marriages for him, but none of them ever stirred emotions in his heart like how Lady Florina did. He didn’t understand what he felt, maybe it was fear, anxiousness? Or maybe even… Love? He shook his head at the silly thought, but he knew he felt something. He decided that he would go back home for the night and return the following night. Maybe fate would bring them back together, he thought hopefully. And maybe he would be smart enough to bring a small lantern with him next time, along with his leather-like vest. At that resolve, the young man nodded slightly and turned back to his village with almost a small skip in his step, the shadows and thin, gnarly trees no longer causing him fear as he walked. The lone crow that was mocking him earlier just watched Ethan this time, quietly observing before taking off into flight into the clear sky. Did the Widow of Craxton expect the young man to follow her so easy? She tested him to some extent, only to find he was still not sure of her – refusing to take her hand and be led into the unknown. That being Craxton Park. Few dare go past the wrought iron gates and come back. Even those making deliveries know that it is best to leave the parcels and the outer perimeter and ring the large bell, that alerts the man servant of the arrival of goods. This was part of the gossip of the town. Did Ethan realize that he was one of the first to actually speak to her? The Seamstress was on a confidentiality clause, if she wanted the Widow’s business, and so she had to refrain from speaking about what they had discussed in the shop. Why would someone go to that extreme? It only adds to the mystery. And what of the new Heir? Since the late Lord’s wife did not bare him a son, his estate and holdings went directly to the next in line among his family. There were those that spoke of a black carriage that had passed through the town not long after the funeral, but it never left the estate. Did the Widow have something to do with this? Florina’s dress swept along behind her as she entered the grounds, the gates closing in behind her as though to lock her in. Few lights were seen in the darkened windows, but enough to light her way. Waiting at the entrance, was the former Lord’s faithful servant and now the one and only that was to care for the Widow. He bowed low as she lifted her skirt enough to climb the stairs. “Enjoy your walk, M’lady?” Curious to know why she was out so very late. Florina stopped, as though to ponder this very question. “I had no idea that the locals were so…nice.”The way she said the last word was done with a mischievous tone. Bertie blinked. “You actually met one?” He knew that few dare venture down the dark forest road, as the gossip was enough to keep people away. Florina’s eyes sparkled as she recanted in her mind, the meeting with the young man. “A young male. Handsome too. Almost had him come back for…a drink.” There she went again. Speaking with double meanings. What she said, when mixed with that gleam, that smirk on her crimson lips was enough to make the man servant shudder. But what could he do? Did he want to end up like his Lordship? “He turned you down, M’lady?” Bertrand was now going into dangerous territory, with his questioning – but he just had to know. “Would you accept the offer of a night cap from a stranger, Bertie?” The Widow took out her fan, with the edge of the lace touching just under his chin, causing him to gulp.“Only if the stranger was you, M’lady” The Widow chuckled lightly at his response, and she gave his cheek a little…playful swat with her fan. “And that is why I keep you on. Now…get me a drink, and make sure its…freshly squeezed.” The man servant bowed and raced inside as the Widow glanced back over her shoulder at the darkened forest, where she had met what she hoped would be her newest friend. “You won’t turn me down next time….Ethan.” Smiling to herself, she started up the stairs, the doors closing when she had gone through into the majestic foyer. The Whisper of Death [1] Continuing from The Whispers of Death Introduction. RP Collaboration. Fortune: Fortune stared at herself in the hotel mirror after getting ready for dinner, the loose curls of her blonde hair falling over her shoulders. “God, I look like my mother,” she said to herself. Her brown eyes had fine eyeliner wrapped around them, creating a cat eye. Red lipstick covered her mouth. She gave a smile, testing it out. The large gap between her front teeth was much too noticeable for her liking. She frowned, turning around to get the full effect of her ensemble. She wore a dress that her mother gave to her for her sixteenth birthday, probably the most expensive thing that her parents ever bought for her. The money that her father “earned” was hardly ever spent on anything besides hiring hit men and other things relating to the business. The dress was long and red, with a slit running up to her left thigh. The front was covered up to her neck, but the gown was backless and showed off her tan skin and freckled shoulders. Brushing her hands down her torso and evaluating her appearance one more time, she let out a sigh and turned off the light. It was now or never. Subtle: Lance stared at himself in the mirror when he got to his room. Why are you so shy? Is it just the way you were raised? He thought. His parents were always gone, and his sister was always rude to him. So he had to be shy for many reasons. Maybe being here would help him overcome the shyness. “If only…” He sighed. After he took a moment to himself, he began to get ready for the ‘party’ happening tonight on about, oh, 25 minutes. He put on a fancy suit, and made sure his hair looked at least a little decent. The freckles stared back at him in the mirror. What if you don’t get along with anyone? Oh you will. stop worrying about it… And he continued to get ready for the ‘big night.’ Lilah: A few hours prior… Stan was in the middle of the horrendous crowd before him. It annoyed him to no end to be in the middle of the swarming students, there was also a buzz going on about a celebrity’s daughter by the name of… Well Stan had no idea ‘Who the fuck cares anyway,’ He barely listened to the announcment, the architecture, while good looking did not faze him unlike others. He figured he was in the second pile of students going through the elevator dragging his black high quality suitcase he enters the elevator, ‘Bahh, parties aren’t my thing,’ He mentally whines despite knowing he would come anyways. The room number which he didn’t even check earlier was 418, he made his way after arriving on his floor. Time Skip (7:24) The hotel room was expensive looking, with tasteful furniture and its own kitchen, Stan didn’t really care as long as the place had WI-FI and a place to put his laptop he was content. Stan, after checking the time decided it was time to go, not caring about his appearance, putted on a blazer on top on a white short-sleeved shirt, after finishing a quest in a video game, he grabbed a messenger bag filled with stuff he found necessary, and went out of the hotel room. Celeste walks towards the huge bathroom, and took a quick shower, the shower glass had etched in flowers and was tinted blue. After she got out of the shower she began to do her makeup. she put on: a generous amount of BB cream, powder, peach blush, black eyeliner, mascara, shimmery eye shadow, and clear lip gloss. She unpacked her suitcases in order to find her dress and put her clothing from the bus ride over in the fold up hamper that she brought. Her dress was short sleeved covered in silver sequins, it hugged her body and went a teeny bit below her mid-thigh. She blow dried and curled her red hair and put on a black satin headband with a bow. She slipped her feet into some tall black heels. Her watch read 7:29, so she quickly hurried out of her suite and into the elevator again.Celeste walks towards the huge bathroom, and took a quick shower, the shower glass had etched in flowers and was tinted blue. After she got out of the shower she began to do her makeup. she put on: a generous amount of BB cream, powder, peach blush, black eyeliner, mascara, shimmery eye shadow, and clear lip gloss. She unpacked her suitcases in order to find her dress and put her clothing from the bus ride over in the fold up hamper that she brought. Her dress was short sleeved covered in silver sequins, it hugged her body and went a teeny bit below her mid-thigh. She blow dried and curled her red hair and put on a black satin headband with a bow. She slipped her feet into some tall black heels. Her watch read 7:29, so she quickly hurried out of her suite and into the elevator again. Stanley’s right eye twitched, the dress that a girl about his age wore to the ‘Party’ was annoying him greatly, the silver sequins bothering his eyes. He stared at the girl, with an annoyed face. Not recognizing the famous Celeste. Celeste noticed someone about her age with dark hair staring at her. He seemed mildly annoyed, at her dress? Maybe he didn’t like her parents? Did she have something on her dress? Did she step on his foot? ” Can I help you?” She asked. She mainly asked this to acknowledge the fact that he was glaring at her, but also out of her curiosity; she’s not used to people looking at her like that. “Not really,” Stan said, he turned away, and looked at the number of the floor, they were about to arrive, the elevator doors opened “Well you can get rid of the dress, but I hardly think you will do so.” He said walking out of the elevator. Lance walked out of his room and looked around. No one, he thought. This place is big, how could no one be in the hallways– He stopped himself mid-sentence and realized: the party, that’s why. He then made his way to the elevator and made it to the floor the party was being held on and looked around again. I know nobody here… Maybe I should make some friends. Ob: Calista tucked her keycard on her purse when someone suddenly talked to her. She looked up and saw a dark haired guy with olive skin tone, perfectly dressed in a tailored suit. Calista arched an eyebrow and looked around but there was no one else behind her. She looked at him again, “Uh.. Me?” Asha: Earlier on the bus that day… Rome was in the last row, and thus, was one of the last students to get out. Everyone shot her nervous looks. They had all heard the rumours about how she had a shot a boy for bumping into her in the hallways and then walking away without apologising. Honestly. I may be the daughter of a mafia boss but I’m not crazy. I just punched him. Stupid pricks, spreading rumours. Grabbing her bag and room key, without thanking the person who handed them to her (the guy wouldn’t look straight at her anyway), Rome made her way to her room after listening to the announcer dude say something about a party. Looks like I’ll have to quit my badass style for some time. Ugh, parties suck. 7:00 pm, half an hour away from the party… Rome stepped out of the shower with her raven black hair wet and sticking all around her neck. She had already chosen her dress and make up, and laid them out on her bed. She would be wearing a strapless, icy blue dress that hugged her hourglass shape perfectly, with silver heels that had blue gems lined along the straps. Her make up included a natural looking layer of foundation, silver eye shadow, and natural looking lipstick. She had decided to leave her hair straight, like how she usually left it. Her only accessories were dangling earrings. In exactly half an hour, she was ready. Smirking as she grabbed a silver purse with all her necessary stuff in it, she got into a lift that had some other people in it. They visibly moved to a corner of the lift as she walked in, and gawked at her at the same time. “What are you looking at?” She asked them coldly, and they quickly looked. In a minute, Rome had reached the level where the party was being held. She walked out the lift, and the other two students walked out after she had. So this is our welcoming party. She thought, as she looked around. ” You think I have a choice to wear this crap?” She said under her breath frustrated before she realized the elevator doors are opening. She put a fake smile on her face and walked out of the elevator and into the party. “Yeah, you.” Jon said with a slight smirk. There was no one else in the corridor, and he wasn’t the kind of guy to talk to himself. Pulling out the party notice, which she may well recognize he flashed it at her, before folding it back up smartly to place back into his jacket pocket. “I think I saw you on the bus earlier.” The Italian looking lad was giving her cues in which to speak, but it may well have fell flat, as she wasn’t one for small talk by the looks of it. “So are you going to the party downstairs?” He asked, then finally remembering his manners. “I’m Giovanni…er.. Jon, by the way.” He didn’t give up his last name, since Jon didn’t think she’d want to go on his arm if she knew who he was the son of. Jon spoke with a slight accent, that could be considered endearing, if you liked that sort of thing. There was a moment of awkward silence, as he could hear the ping of the elevator. “If we hurry we could catch that one.” “Maybe you have a choice, maybe you don’t, how the hell am I supposed to know?” Stan said, irritated. The girl was a bother, annoying and probably thought her life was hard to live, despite not being so. With that Stan went off to the party, making his way through the crowd, he leaned on a wall and just awkwardly stood there next to the snack table, not being known for being a social butterfly, most people ignored Stan, he after all was not his younger siblings, who were adored by the public. But of course some whispers about the guy were made, he was after all a famous actresses son. Calista gave him a smile. “Of course I know you.” she inserted an arm on the arm he offered. Her other free hand held the purse. “Shall we? Before we get late on that party.” Calista said. “Such a gentleman of you. I didn’t expect someone would see me and eventually escort me to that party.” She chuckled. Calista may not talk a lot but she knows when to give away her charm. She knows a lot and everyone than she is expected to. She also knows how to play and let someone be in her hands. But that’s another story. At the party, Lucius saw this girl with Raven hair and a dangerous look on her. He had heard the rumours about her, shooting a boy in the hallways. Of course it wasn’t true: If something happened, Lucius was always there to take pictures. What was her name again? Some city. Paris? No, that couldn’t be. London? That would just be stupid. Rome! Her name was Rome! A not even decent opening line came into his head: just the way he liked it. He walked up to the girl, tapping her on the shoulder of her icy blue dress. “Ave, Romae estis? Tu estis pulcra et magna! Sum Lucius. You know what that means?” Razsor: There was something magical about the way a simple smile can light up a girl’s face. It was the best indicator that Jon hadn’t been too bold in his intentions to escort Calista to the party. The girl looked a knockout in the silver gown, and matched his attire to a T. The pair looked as though they planned this, though nothing could be further from the truth. From the way she spoke, she already knew who he was. Well, that was understandable. He was a Bianchi, and they had a certain profile – both physically and in the media. Taking her arm properly, he strolled with her to the lift – his chest out proud and his chin held high. You could say he met up to the name, and was certain to show Calista off when they arrived at the party. “It’s fashionable to make an entrance….or in our case, be a little late.” Jon and Calista just made the lift and he spun her around when the doors closed – sealing them in. The dark haired Jon flicked his hair back a little, as part of it had fallen down before his eyes. It gave him a slightly roguish look. “A beautiful girl such as yourself deserves to be shown off…and I plan to do just that.” Giovanni’s cologne was quite strong in the confined space of the lift, and it may have made Calista a little light headed. Everything, about Jon…seemed to be rich and powerful. From the fleck of gold from his cuff links and watch, to the fifty watt smile, that he only showed to someone he either wanted to impress, or genuinely liked. On the opening of the doors on the floor where the party was happening, the smile fell away and he looked dominant once again. “Lets show these kids how it’s done.” She glared back at the guy, he came off at so negative, but at the same time she didn’t mind that he didn’t know who she was. She was near some other famous girls; they were less well known than herself, nevertheless, they still complained about their first world problems and bragged about the all the awards the received from a few years back. She just agreed, smiled, and nodded; just like her parents wanted her to. This is how you make friends right? She thought anxiously. “Oh, that’s great then?” there was a faint question in her voice. But Calista, nevertheless, let the dark haired boy escort her to the party. It was already full of people, the speakers were producing mellow music… yet. She walked with confidence along with Jon, her heels making bold sounds on the orange-yellow floor as they entered the party. Her face showed a faint, intimidating smile, something that she rarely does. But she feels confident, especially with Mr. Bianchi here. The Whisper of Death. October 26, 2015 / razorbackwriteraus / Leave a comment (Inspired by The Heirs and Who are you? School 2015) Kryss University is a school for the rich. The heirs of famous, popular businesses, the children of the politicians, the children of popular, worldwide artists and the children of some mafias attends here. They are beautiful and handsome, and rich. You may think they are perfect and lives a very comfortable life, but you are wrong. Every student in this university have a deep secret that would destroy their reputation– their lives, once discovered. Everything have flaws; nothing, no one is indeed perfect, whether you are rich or poor, beautiful or ugly. A new school year has started again. Each student is excited to start the new year, have fun and make new memories. Everything that happened last year was buried and forgotten or left as a memory that would stick to them. But not everyone have forgotten. Collaboration Role playing series – New. They may look innocent; they may live a comfortable life; they may be kind. But no one is perfect; no one could have a perfect life. These students are one example. Be careful who you are dealing with. The bus halted in front of a huge, tall building. “Okay guys,” their adviser said through a megaphone. Everyone silenced. “We have arrived on the hotel we are staying for 4 days. Each one of you will have your own room. As you get off, we’ll give you guys the hotel cards.” the students hollered, some of them pumping their fist on the air. Calista remained quiet on her seat and listened as the adviser talked again. “Now, the first row will get up and get off then the next and next.” the first row get up and get off. Calista sat on the 2nd row, so after the 1st row of students get off, she stood up and followed the girl in front of her. As she get off, a man gave her her galaxy colored suitcase and a hotel card. Written across from it in bold, medium sized letters was 423. Calista walked past them and pulled her shades down to her eyes. The 3pm sun blared below them, merciless. Calista sighed in relief as she entered the hotel. The cold, comfortable air from the air conditioner welcomed her. The hotel’s lobby was amazing, of course, it’s a 5 star hotel. It was huge, like a grand ballroom. It has two, huge gold chandeliers, an indoor fountain in the center that produced the different colors of the rainbow, a couple of very artistic paintings hung on the wall and red couches with gold laces. There is also a mini fish pond on the corner of the room. The students who first got off crowded in the center of the hotel, apparently waiting for the next announcement. Calista joined them and stood meters away from them. She silently listened to them while her eyes rested on the hotel’s glass door that keeps producing another student. The students near her were talking about how they’ll spend their first night. She also wondered how she will spend her first night– it will probably depend on the activities. Kay: Fortune exited the bus, excited for her new adventure in life. Leaving behind her family in New York was a difficult decision to make, pushing for a more independent lifestyle than any woman in her family before her. A smile spread across her face as the group of students entered the hotel, receiving their key cards on the way. 426. She enclosed her hand around the piece of plastic and brought it up to her lips, kissing her hand and wishing for good luck – something her father had always done before a job. The hotel was extremely extravagant, covered in gold and wonder. As Fortune passed a painting of the Virgin Mary, she stopped and made the sign of the cross over her torso. Pulling her suitcase behind her, she walked around the lobby and examined its beauty. She was used to the dingy shops and apartments of New York. Her father may have been a mafia boss, but he refused to leave the neighborhood for a better home. So they remained where they had since Fortune was a baby, and her father still worked at a pizza place. Lucius walked into the hotel with just two small suitcases. He had always traveled the world but hated carrying much, so he traveled light. All the students were looking at the fish, the furniture, the paintings on the wall or their phone. Lucius, however, was looking at the high ceiling. It had an almost perfect duplication of Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel on it. He had seen and studied the real one, so he could see the mistakes, but it was amazingly well done. He opened his jacket and got out the phone his father had given to him: It was no good for more than calling and taking photos, but it was amazing at the latter. It was the best camera phone out there, and Lucius carried it everywhere. The Niagara Falls, Mount Rushmore, The Great Pyramids, it was all on his phone. TML: Alexis jumps out of the bus. She’s excited to see what’s in store for her. And she, like most of her peers, hoped that this trip will be an unforgettable experience. Alexis walked inside the hotel, impressed by it’s architectural design. She carries her luggage with her. Alexis checked her hotel card over and over again, to memorize her room number. 421, it’s easy to memorize but she can’t help but to look at it over and over again. Celeste sat on the bus, she slowly slid her finger across the window. Her ring finger was covered dust from the old window. The bus came to a halt, she exited the bus and put her hood on her sweatshirt down to get a better look at the tall building. To her horror, dozens of her classmates faces lit up and started going to her. Oh God….. Even at this school they know who I am. Her parents were extremely famous celebrities, she would attend red carpet events, has been interviewed by the news, even her birth was a huge anouncement to the media. Celeste absolutely hates getting so much attention, she’d rather study, play videogames, participate in sports, and be a normal teenager. She wished her parents could just let her go to a normal school, whatever. Once the students were in one place, their adviser stood in front of them with his megaphones. “Okay, 12th grade. Proceed to your rooms and come back here at..” He stopped and checked his wristwatch, “7:30 pm sharp. We’ll all be having our dinners together. Make sure to wear your grandest outfit for the night!” He announced. The crowd burst into giggles and chats, mostly coming from the girls. “Now, we’ll let 20 students first go inside the elevator then the next batch and the next.” The hotel staff guided the students near the elevator. It was huge and made of glass where you can see through it. Calista pasted herself on the wall, her suit case standing in her sneakers’ edge. She let the other students pass by her. She doesn’t mind of being last, she’ll arrive there anyway. And, she’ll also have a time to appreciate the room. It was so beautiful she wondered why her father hadn’t made negotiations to buy this hotel. Or was it theirs? Her parents never really pushed her to be part of their business, especially that she’s not the heir. Though,Moshe sometimes spectate business meetings when she’s bored and attend formal dinners and parties. She briskly walks past her classmates who recognized her and stepped into the grande hotel and stared in awe. She walked silently around the lobby to pass time until she would hear further announcement. The lobby was glorious, gorgeous ceiling paintings, fountains with detailed sculptures, and paintings thats eyes watch you no matter what angle she happened to be at. Her long sundress caught on a mounted doorstopper she begun to trip over her dress before she caught herself. A few heads turned around because she made this big tapping noise when she caught herself. Great, now people know where I am she thought. “Your Celeste, right?” A stout girl said excitedly. ” Celeste goes here?” Her taller friend exclaims. A small crowd of students surround her, asking her many questions about her parents. Celeste’s face flushes red underneath her heavy makeup. Students start to fill up the elevator, she joins in too. She spots a girl with blondish hair, maybe it’s Calista, Celeste has heard of before throuh the other students. Maybe I should make friends with her, she seems nice, right? Ok, act normal and friendly. You got this…. TMI: Alexis noticed how people went crazy over somebody. One of her schoolmate, Celeste or something else that start with C. A famour actress maybe, Alexis don’t really follow gossip and news about celebrity. She’s her father daughter, after all. All she read about is about politics and international news. Rather than grouping around her, people… Make some distance with her. Well, indeed that occasionally men wearing black suit would follow her arouns but not this time (or at least as long as she know). Alexis make into the elevator, eager to see the hotel hallway and room design. Maybe another day? There is too many people here right now, if I talk to one person then they’ll all expect me to talk everyone. For now I’ll just answer any non-personal questions until I get to my room. Man, this has been the longest minute ever. The elevator slowly rises up to the different floors, Celeste liked to see the numbers indicating the floor level change, there was something peaceful about that. While answering some questions and being introduced to some of the more popular students on the elevator her eyes darted around examining each of the students. She saw this girl give a curious look towards her for a second, the girl was with a few other classmates, she noticed that about 1/6 of the students in the elevator didn’t know who her parents were and boy, was she glad. She held on to the metallic hand rail, her hand felt the elevator halt and the doors slowly opened to reveal a hallway. Calista noticed Celeste looking at her, everyone knows her. However, Calista pretended she didn’t see her. When the time came for the last batch to go inside the elevator, Calista moved and joined the other students. She was the last one to enter the elevator, thus, she stood near the glass door. The elevator ascended; Calista waited patiently. Each time the elevator passes a floor, the lobby always have different design. It was elegant, unique and gorgeous; it was full of chandeliers, gold, silver, white, red and black. The elevator pinged and halted in the 7th floor. The glass door spread open and Calista stepped out. She looked in awe as she stood on the floor’s lobby. The center had some Greek goddess statue fountain, around it are beds of daises and roses. Calista headed straight and started to search for her room, 423. The first two doors that stood across from each other were 400 and 401– she have a long way to go. As she started to walk on the marbled floor, the hallway was full with laughter and it made her assured and comfortable. She turned right, then turned left and finally found her door. She scanned the hotel key on the sensor on the door knob. The light became green and produced a ping sound, Calista twisted the knob and opened her room’s door. She stick out a hand and searched the wall for the switch. But she immediately drew back her hand as she felt something cold touch or rather, graze, the back of her palm. She knew it was not an object, she was certain, since it was soft yet cold, very cold that it sent chills on her spine. Nervously, she stick her hand again and tapped the wall for the switch, after a second, she found it and the room’s lights turned on. Fort: Fortune was in the last batch of students to go up the elevator, for she was too busy staring at the intricate ceiling for a good ten minutes – studying every small detail. Once they called for the last group of students to enter the elevator, she slowly backed up into the group of children while still admiring the artwork – until she bumped into someone. She turned around to see a boy with dark hair. He held a camera phone in his hand, and it seemed like he had also been admiring the ceiling just before she had made a fool of herself. She was sure she had seen him before, you don’t forget someone that attractive. She awkwardly chuckled. “Sorry,” she said in her Brooklyn accent. With a soft sound of bell, the lift stopped in the 4th floor. Alexis walked out of the elevator together with other students that will stay on the 4th floor. It takes her a while for her to get to her room, but that’s okay. She unlocked the door and smile formed on her face as she pushed the door open. It was a beautiful room, she had a hard time believing that a room this big is a single room. Alexis is seriously consider moving to the penthouse, just to see how it looked like, but decided to stay in this room because her other peers are sleeping in the same type of room as she is. She put her luggage on the floor and jumped on the soft bed, she reached for the TV’s remote control and turned it on. “Oh, nevermind. I was just appreciating the art on the ceiling. Have you been to the sistine chapel?” The blonde seemed to be interested in art, so they talked a little bit more. He found out her name was Fortune; what an odd but lovely name! After a conversation, Lucius walked through the halls, looking at the achitecture. His parents had always been busy saving people in the law court and the operation theatre, but when they were free they would take him to the most beautiful places. Nature, architecture, art, Lucius had become interested in all of it. And a lot of aesthatic was to be found in this hotel. There were replica’s of the greatest paintings in the world, some looking so real even Lucius’ trained eyes couldn’t see the difference. When he was finally done looking at the canvases and statues, he went to his room to unpack. Room 412 was nice, but a little too big for his taste. He had always slept in tents: Even though his parents were rich, they preferred simple life over extreme luxury. Lucius set his watch to alarm him at 7 pm, so he would be downstairs in time. He unpacked his suitcase and hung his Talisman on the wall. Even though he did not share the religion of his Syrian father, the one he he got his last name from, the Talisman reminded him of home and without it he could not rest properly. He let himself fall on the bed, and took a nap. Calista dragged her suit case in and closed the door behind her. The room was big, very big; she wondered if this was a presidential suit. On the lower part of the room’s center had a mini living room with a 42 inches tv, huge two speakers and comfortable black couches; on the left side is the mini kitchen with complete with appliances, utensils, dishwares, counters and stools, beside it, near the sink, is a white door; the upper corner part of the room was separated by a huge fish tank. Beyond the fish tank stood the king sized poster bed, a white rock shaped lamp, a bedside with a telephone on it and the directory and beside the bedside is also a white door. Beside the bed was a floor to ceiling window, overlooking the wide deep blue swimming pool and beyond it is the sapphire sea, glittering amidst the sun’s merciless heat. Calista, slowly shrugging out what happened a minute ago, stopped on the foot of the bed. She parked her suit case, letting it lean on the bed. She checked the two white doors; the door near the kitchen was actually the bathroom, it was also huge too. It has both a medium-sized tub, a shower that is separated from a tinted glass, and other things you usually see in a bathroom. The second white door, near the bedside, was actually a walk in closet. Now, speaking of closet. Calista hurriedly laid the suitcase on the bed’s edge. Her nervousness because of what happened earlier completely faded away and was replaced by giddiness. She opened her suitcases and neat folded clothes greeted her. She may not be talkative but Calista loves fashion, especially dresses and parties. She laid the different kinds of clothes in the bed: shorts, bikinis, skirts, shirts, tubes, dresses, different kind of accessories and different kind of heels (she’s short so she always wear heels). Calista, wherever she goes, loves to look in style and fashion. Her mind started choosing concepts and she started pairing dresses, accessories and heels to wear for the party this night. Fortune learned that her victim’s name was Lucius. She apologized again and again, but he kept reassuring her that it was okay. They talked about the amazing art on the ceiling, and he asked her if she had ever been to the Sistine Chapel. Fortune blushed and looked at her feet. “To be honest, I’ve never been outside of Brooklyn until I got accepted into this school.” After their conversation, Fortune made her way to her room. Upon opening the door, she was in awe. The whole room was the size of her apartment back in Brooklyn. After the door shut behind her, she let out an excited screech. Running towards the bed, she jumped on it and landed on her back. She ran her fingers over the soft fabric of the comforter and breathed in the clean scent. She was really gonna love this. She dragged her suitcases through the hallway. ” Need any help?” Asked the same stout girl she talked to in the lobby. ” No thanks, I’m fine.” Celeste responded, walking to her presidential suite. She unlocked the door using a room card, a small green light lit up and she heard the door’s locks making a clicking noise. Her suite was fairly large; it had a small kitchenette, living room, wide balcony, a master bedroom, a HUGE bathroom, and walk in closet. This must be the presidential suite. Celeste rolled her eyes, she honestly rather have a smaller room since it makes no sense for one person to require so much space and luxury. She has tried to tell her parents that she feels wierd about getting so much stuff and special rooms, her parents would always say in excuse that the extra space was for her “friends”. Celeste actually doesn’t have any friends, although sometimes she has to interact with other children of celebrities and politicians to get good press. (Time skip to 7pm, 30 minutes before the party) Calista stood in front of the bathroom’s wide mirror, she wore her bathrobe and her blonde hair was wrapped in a towel. A small case of make-up was wide open in the counter and a bunch of rollers sat beside it. She started applying make-up: foundation, black-eyeliner, mascara, light red eyeshadow, a small blush-on and a scarlet red lipstick. She also put on a dark forest green contacts. After she was done with her make-up, she unwrapped her hair. Using the blower, she let it dry first and then wore the rollers. While waiting for the rollers to do its work, she stepped out of the bathroom. She picked up her outfit from the bed which was full of other clothes. The dress she picked was black, fitting, short and sexy. It has a turtleneck that is see-through until her collarbone, the sleeves were until her wrist and they are also see-through. The chest part of the dress until its end is the only part that is not see-through. Calista stepped out of her bathrobe and wore the dress. It hugged her slender body and emphasized her S line shape. The dress ended meters above her knees. She then paired it with a black boot heels that ended on her ankles, It has a ribbon on the side where small diamonds traced its outline. Its heels were long, thin and sharp. Calista then proceeded to the accessories. She wore a pair of ruby dangling earrings, and a diamond ring which she inserted in her middle finger. The stone of the ring was small and is in a heart shape. After a couple of minutes, Calista went back to the bathroom and removed the rollers, her blonde hair was wavy and soft. She let the other side of her blonde hair fall into her shoulder while she left the other side resting on her back. She stepped out of the bathroom and grabbed her purse in the bed. It was plain silver and is made of silk. She stuffed in her phone, her wallet, a handkerchief, her foundation, lipstick, a small perfume and her breath spray– a lady always bring breath sprays. Calista closed her purse and looked up at the clock, 7:27 pm. Calista went to the door and removed the room keycard to its home, making every light in the room turn off. She stepped out of the room, locked the door and put her keycard on her purse. Earlier on the bus…. Jon had been the last to make his way down the bus from the back. This common mode of transportation was something of a disgraceful way to have to pull up at the hotel where the students would be spending the next four days. With his eyes shaded behind dark ray ban glasses, Jon sneered at the bus driver, who had been waiting patiently for the straggler to leave. Approaching the driver, Jon noted something familiar about him. He was an older male, about sixties and with a large bald patch that was covered by the world’s worst comb over. The driver reminded him of one of his father’s chauffeurs over the years. Badly dressed and portly, reeking of cigarette smoke. Clearly, the driver was dying to have a break so that he could enjoy a few with some whiskey. Jon reached into his jacket pocket and tossed the driver a fifty dollar bill, patting the man on the shoulder in a condescending way. “Thanks for keeping it running…” Not bothering to wait for a reply, Jon jumped down the last step onto the pavement, and headed inside the hotel, where a porter was waiting. Giovanni’s father had taken the liberty of arranging for his son’s luggage to arrive ahead of the group, and of course it meant that Jon didn’t have to lift a finger. The porter snapped his heels together on seeing the young well dressed man enter. This had to be Master Bianchi. He handed Jon his room key and then gestured to where the lifts were. Already he was well behind the others, but thankfully the porter knew the room that Giovanni was staying in, as well as the night’s activities. The porter handed Jon a slip of paper. Taking it, Jon took off his sunglasses and carefully folded them, placing them in his pocket as he waited for the lift. Reading it, Jon’s right eyebrow raised slightly. “Party at 7.30pm? Really? So on top of having to ride in the bus with these clowns, I now have to socialize with them as well?” Jon didn’t even look at the porter, to seek his answer. The doors to the lift opened, and he strode in. Huffing as he did so. In truth, he would be much happier to spend the night watching the sports channel, than having to dress up in a tux and put on airs and graces that he clearly didn’t have. The lift went up to the fourth floor, where it opened out and the porter pointed to the right. “Room 419, Sir.” Jon swaggered down the hall, finally coming to a stop outside his appointed room. Swiping the card, the green light indicator came on, and Jon pushed the door open, with the porter following in with his luggage. The room was quite spacious and well appointed. All the mod cons that you would appreciate in such an establishment. While Jon went to go look out the balcony window, the porter stacked Jon’s bags, before coughing to signal that he wished to be tipped. Well, he had done his job and deserved something. Taking out a rolled up wad of notes, he then placed a ten dollar note in the porter’s outstretched hand, which he took gracefully. “If you need anything else, Sir?” He paused, half expecting something, but Jon simply waved him away dismissively. If he wanted anything, it would be the TV guide and the room service menu. Once the porter left the room, Jon checked his watch for the time. Enough for a nap, and then shower and change. Jon flopped backwards, landing on the bed – staring at the ceiling. Time skip – 6.59pm Giovanni emerged from the bathroom with a towel around his waist, his hair still wet from the hot shower. His Italian designer suit was hanging on the door, and he had a pair of shoes that had been polished and ready, along with his smalls and crisp white shirt. One thing about Jon was that when he went out, he always looked good. Even if he really would rather laze about the hotel, or sneak down to the bar. Amazing what he could get away with with his father’s connections. Dressing himself reasonably quickly, he was soon fixing his tie, when he flashed a glance at the time. Fixing on his jacket, he slid on his Rolex watch, and then placed his wallet on the inside pocket of his jacket. The key card was on the edge of his night stand, and that was the last thing he had to bring. One last look in the mirror, and he gave a light shrug of the shoulders. It was now 7.28pm. Great…he was going to be fashionably late. Stepping out the door of his suite, he emerged in the corridor close to the same time as a blonde haired girl that was done up to the nines. Pocketing the key card to the room, he showed her a half smile. “You with the school?” He may well have not recognized her from those on the bus, but if she was a student, she sure scrubbed up well. “Need an escort?” Jon offered his arm anyways. Lost in Wonderland : PD Once they followed the White rabbit through the door, they fell down the Rabbit hole that led them directly into the World of Children’s imagination – Wonderland. Lost in Wonderland. The mad world of Wonderland. Access can be gained through the mirror in the Greed Kingdom’s ball room or the Rabbit Hole. No sooner had the door slammed shut, that the white rabbit disappeared from view. The floor was like that of a chess board, that started to spiral downwards like a huge slippery slope at a carnival. With a loud whoosh and a scream, the first to fall was Alice, who was followed quickly by Scar and of course, Mariela’s family : Tessa, Sam and Sean. Around and around, down and down they went in what was the longest slippery slip in history. As they passed, there was blackness, which suddenly flashed pictures of memories of their past. For each they would see a different thing. For Scar…he only saw himself as what he was in Wonderland – the Mad hatter. The white rabbit had tricked them, and now they were falling down a virtual rabbit hole into the other world. One would think the mirror was the only way, but the rabbit, whoever it really was had created another hole in time and space. How had he done this? Easy….the time piece – the same one that had been spun when the Prince of Gluttony took the right hand of doom. The domino effect had now come to Greed of all places. The one place that had suffered so much already. Their screams soon died down as the spiral ride was taking so long. In fact it was easy to forget that they were sliding to what might well be their doom. “Not again…not again.” Scar kept repeating, while Alice was giggling. She always chose the wrong moments to have a giggle fit. “Hope there is a cushion pile at the bottom!” she sung out to the others. Faster and faster they went, till finally there was a bright light coming from below. The end was in sight. And then like out of some prize shoot, they all were spat, landing on a large grassy knoll. Alice landed first, with Scar landing on top of her. Tessa, Sam and Sean would come out last. Like being projected from some sort of canon. On looking at what they came out of, it would appear to be a large tree with a trap door, that shut and sealed up the moment that they had all landed. All around them was a massive garden. Tall grasses that towered over them, and flowers as big as dragons. Behind them were ginormous mushrooms. A gate that was on a path nearby, suddenly started to open. The gate was made from gold, and glistened in the light. Scar’s face fell as soon as he saw it. Rummaging around, he then looked for his hat. It wasn’t on the ground and it certainly was not on his head. “My hat?!!” He screamed, looking at the other four in fright. Scar gripped his hair and started tearing at it. “I’ve lost my hat….My hat….Oh no. Oh..no.” “It could be worse, Hatter.” Alice pipped up, getting off the ground and smoothing out her dress. “How?’ Scar was now getting angry. “You haven’t lost your mind yet.” Dessy: Why were they following a rabbit? Tessa had no clue, but she really didn’t have time to speak on it because Scar grabbed her hand, and she had to quickly link arms with the brothers. They were sliding down a slope, that seemed like a slide. As they slid down, memories passed around. For Tessa, she saw memories of when her and Marie were young – little kids. For the brothers, they saw memories of their family – and the memory of the day they lost their sister, when she burned with their house. What first started as screaming, had eventually stopped because of how long this damn thing was. Scar was repeating “not again”, and Alice was laughing. Seeing there was light, Tessa sighed with relief as it seemed to be the end. After Alice and Scar fell, Tessa fell first – then the brothers fell on top of her. Tessa groaned and shoved them both off, before standing up and dusting herself off. She looked around, seeing a large tree and then a door… that closed. Well. Looks like they couldn’t head back that way. Tessa turned when Scar started freaking out about his hat. “What’s so important about the hat?” she spoke, but she turned to look at Alice as Alice spoke. What did she mean that Scar hasn’t lost his mind? Wait a minute… This all sounded way too familiar. “Wonderland?” she then asked. “Why did we go to Wonderland, of all places?” she added, looking around her. “Wonderland?” Sam questioned. “You mean like… Alice in Wonderland? As in the book?” Sam spoke again.”Woah, wait. That can’t be possible. Alice in Wonderland is just a book. It can’t be real.” Sean spoke. “Well… My best friend is a witch, and her brothers are witches, and we were just in Hell, which is also in a book, that said best friend got sent to and is now ruler to Greed…” Tessa began listing, moving her hands as she spoke. “I think at this point anything is possible, and as we can see, Wonderland is apparently not just a book but also another reality in Hell.”Tessa continued talking. “… Or something.” she continued. “Well… It’s okay. Marie will get us out of here. We know that.”Sam said. “Sure…” Sean started. “But she has to figure out a way to Wonderland first…” “What’s so important about the hat?” It was a simple question that Tessa made. Surely she remembered the hat’s significance. It was how he had found the trio in the first place, after being sent into his hat by Raul when in the maze. Mariela used the same hat to bring him back, but the question was…did he lose it before or after he went through the door? He simply could not remember. Running up to the large oak tree that they had been spat out of, the alp kept pressing at it, hoping that the trunk would open the trap door. Feeling and panting hard as he looked completely panicked. They had slid so far and for so long, that maybe the hat would be the last to emerge. With the tree having turned into just a normal tree however, it was now impossible to tell. “My magic….that hat. That hat….is my magic.” Words coming out backwards then forwards. Was the madness starting to already take hold. Scar certainly didn’t talk like this in Hell…not the Scar they knew. Still patting the tree frantically, and then listening with his ear to the trunk before knocking again, a tiny window opened in the tree and a squirrel wearing a night cap tossed out a chest nut at the head of the hatter, before chittering angrily in his own little language, before shaking a curled fist. Scar must have woken him up. The nut donked the alp’s head and bounced off, as the alp glanced up to see the creature, who blew a raspberry before slamming his window and going back to his little bed. “Even the squirrels are against me.” Scar muttered, before he turned back to the trio who were now asking each other about Wonderland. Sam and Sean were both debating on it being real, and Tessa began listing all the crazy things that were real in their life, drawing the conclusion that anything was now possible. Her strong belief that Mariela would figure it all out in time being their only real hope. “But she has to figure out a way to Wonderland first…” Scar then blurted….“The mirror!” His eyes flashed so you could see the whites as he took off, but calling over his shoulder for the others to follow. “I know where it is!” Scar as Hatter knew where the mirror was….or at least he thought he did. If the others followed, they would be lead through the giant garden of flowers, that all bent their head and stared down to watch the tiny group make its way down a golden path…a little road made from…yellow bricks? There was one however that didn’t follow. The girl in the blue smocked dress stood there with a wide grin, before turning tail and skipping in the opposite direction, whistling as she went. The rabbit had skedaddled, and now it seemed that Alice was doing the same thing. The big question was….why? Reaching the clearing that was at the center of the start of what looked to be a maze very similar to that of the Maze of Greed, Scar screeched to a sudden stop, with the boys and Tessa coming right behind him. The frame from the mirror still stood…..but the glass was missing. “No….no no no no….NOOOOOOO!” He screamed, tugging at his hair and running around to the back of what was the mirror frame and putting his hand right through it, as it came out the other side. No hat….no mirror….no way back. It was then he peered past the others and noticed Alice was missing. “Where’s Alice? ALICE! Alice you bitch!” Scar was looking all around, trying to see where the girl had gone too. In his haste to find the mirror, or what was left of it he forgot all about the girl. “You stupid HOE!” There was clearly no love lost between Alice and the alp now. The penny was starting to drop for the Alp. No hat….no mirror. Something must have happened in that ballroom. There was no Jabberwrocky….no rush of card soldiers. The most frightening scenario was starting to play out in the alp’s head. Suddenly the sound of horses hooves was heard, coming down the yellow brick path and when the Alp turned he saw what was a White knight on a white horse. He was huge, much bigger than the Alp and his friends. Rearing up as he reached the area, the White knight lifted his helm to reveal his face……a very familiar face to those that knew…. “You finally returned, eh, Hatter?” “The White Queen wants a word.” Morning Sickness – The Embassy : PD Nicholas’s sudden illness takes everyone by surprise. The Embassy RP – Yaoi romance. In a room up in the farther part of the castle laid a person, one who groaned as the sunlight shined in through the window. Sighing a bit he would let go of the pillow and sit up, looking out the window. It was a nice day by the looks of it, his arm going up to his forehead and covering his face. A small yawn escaped his lips as long white hair flowed down to his back, the person half naked. Nicholas removed the sheets from his legs and swung them to the side to sit on the edge. It had been a while since that moment long ago; where Valmont purposed to Nicholas. It was still a shock to him at some points, he wasn’t sure what it meant at first. But once the realization came to him he was shocked and gladly accepted it. He had loved Valmont and he had did all that, it was something special. Standing Nicholas would remove the boxers he had on, standing nude there for a moment. Walking to the window he would shut the curtain and the room would be dark again, little light shining in. A knock had been heard and he picked up a towel, wrapping it around his waist. ” Coming! ” Nicolas said, walking and opening the door. A servant had been there with a tray of food. What was this? ” Valmont had requested you be served breakfast in the morning.” She said and handed the tray walking away. Nicholas took the tray and shut the door setting it on the table. Breakfast? He hoped he wasn’t going to be treated like some royal but know him he probably was. With a small sigh he walked into the bathroom, dropping the towel and starting the shower. The windows fogged up moments later and he stepped in, the warm water hitting his back. It had felt nice to be cleaned in the morning, slowly he’d go to washing his body. Thoughts of Valmont entered his mind and he simply giggled a bit, continuing to wash. After twenty minutes of washing and cleaning the shower would turn off and he’d step out of shower. Nicholas would pick up a towel and wrapped it around himself, standing in the mirror. He really did look like a girl like this, soaking wet hair down, the girl features and his body. His eyes went to the small marks to his neck from the other previous night. You could say his sexual relationship in life had changed drastically, he was more open and willing to go such long lengths with him. He was use to being nude in front of the man, they were husband and wife after all. After drying his hair he’d slide a silk robe on and tied it around the waist. It was slightly big but, still fit so the shoulders of the gown would hang down revealing his shoulders. Walking out of the bathroom he’d go to sit down on the bed near the tray, taking the tray its self he’d place it on the bed. Nicholas would go to eating the food away, you could say he was hungry and that was something new, but it didn’t bother him. After another 20 minutes of eating he’d put the tray on the table and laid on the bed. He had felt good right now and the cold air hitting his bare skin made it much more better. Roughly 10 minutes later a feeling would come to his stomach, one of feeling very sick and nauseous. What was it? With his body reaction he was up off the bed in seconds and into the bathroom on the ground, his head over the toilet. Moments later he had started throwing up a bunch and red liquid came after. What was that? Once more it came up with more crimson liquid, it was blood. Why was he throwing up and blood with it? After the situation in the bathroom he’d shut the toilet and flushed it, washing his face and walking out. A couple of times earlier he had, had similar situations but, not blood. Was he coming down with something of the flu? It was unknown to him, sitting on the bed he put a hand to his stomach. This had worried him now and he’d make sure he’d go to a doctor soon if it continued on. Laying back on the bed the robe would slide up, showing his thin legs and he shut his eyes. Valmont and the others would probably wonder why Nicholas hadn’t come down but, he didn’t care at the moment. He wanted to relax, it had been a sick morning. Embassy of Hell Valmont had been waiting for some time for Nicholas to make an appearance in his office. The Ambassador had long since finished his coffee, and Jensen had cleared away the tray leaving Valmont to his thoughts. Naturally, they were filled with nothing but Nicholas, and that look on his face when he had accepted the Ambassador’s proposal. Standing by his desk, Valmont let his fingers run along the edge of the oak, being deep in thought and feeling chuff about the whole thing. Sure, he had a lot to do that day but part of him just wanted to hole Nicholas up in his room and make love to him till the sun set once more. A light chuckle left his lips, his hand leaving the timber of the desk and falling to his side. Valmont took out his pocket watch and noted the time. A crease formed on his brow as he saw it was a lot later than he had imagined. ~Where can he be?~ he thought to himself. It was then that Valmont decided to go and check on Nicholas. Maybe he had gone to his own office first and got caught up in talks with some of the more nosy of the staff. Talk of engagements and weddings were always enough to stop staff from doing their duties fully. Straightening his jacket, Valmont strolled out of his office and went down the hall – nodding politely at all that passed him till he rounded into Nicholas’s office only to find that he wasn’t there. “Strange…” Valmont said aloud. The ambassador stopped a passing maid, who curtseyed at him. “Yes, Sir?” “Have you seen Nicholas yet?” He now had a frown, as he was starting to worry about his lover. This was most unlike him. The maid shook her head. “No one has seen him since he had his breakfast tray taken in, Sir.” ‘Hmmm….alright, carry on.” The girl bobbed and continued on her way, leaving Valmont standing there rubbing his temple. He was going to have to go and check in Nicholas’s bedroom and make sure he was alright. Arriving a few minutes later, Valmont knocked twice, before entering. it was then he could see Nicholas laying down with his robe having slid up so his legs were fully exposed. The breakfast tray had been finished, and it showed he had eaten. Was he unwell? Walking up to the bed, Valmont sat down on the edge, and then gently caressed Nicholas’s cheek tenderly. “Love, are you awake?” Concern written all over his face. By this time Nicholas had been somewhat sleeping but not fully. Hearing the knocking didn’t register to Nic’s ears as his eyes stayed shut. It had been a bit of a surprise to feel a caress of his cheek but, he knew who it was. Opening his eyes he looked up at his lover. A soft smile came to his lips as he sat up now, next to Valmont. He had been a bit asleep but, not that much. The feeling from earlier still lingered a bit in his stomach but, not as much. His hair sprawled down his shoulder and back, the robe hanging a bit as he set his hand on his lap. ” I’m wide awake, just feeling a little sick. Nothing out of the usual, so I ended up slightly falling back to sleep.” He said and slowly he fell right back onto his bed, on his back. What was it? He just didn’t feel like moving much or getting up but, maybe that was just cause of how he felt. Maybe something was horribly wrong with his body but, what could it possibly be? Softly breathing he moved his head to look over at Valmont and simply admired him, it was nice to see him again since he hadn’t seen him since the previous night. A soft smile fell onto his lips again. Naturally, Valmont’s thoughts turned to the worst when Nicholas had said that he was feeling a little sick. Was it from the breakfast tray that had been provided? A bad egg, or some suspect bacon? It explained a lot about why Nicholas had been missing that morning. The Ambassador reached for Nicholas’s hand and held it between his. Worried that it might be a case of food poisoning, due to Nicholas wanting to lay back down again, instead of getting up – had Valmont ready to call for the Embassy physician. Nicholas had never had a sick day in all the years that he worked at the Embassy so this was most unusual. “Perhaps a day in bed wouldn’t hurt. i can fetch the Doctor for you, if you would like.”This was more to allay the Ambassador’s own concerns as he really wanted to know the nature of Nicholas’s illness. They had so much to talk about and plan, since Valmont was hoping to discuss about their future. Everything about a proper engagement, and of course later a grand wedding in the Embassy grounds. Though now didn’t seem to be the right time at all. Nicholas was breathing so softly and appeared fragile if anything. It was the feminine side that Valmont was loving more and more each day. His thoughts quickly changed for a moment, as he found himself staring at Nicholas, letting his eyes wander down his supple neck. “Do you know how hard it is to be near you…..and not be able to have my way?” There was a tease in his words, cause he knew it was the wrong thing to say with Nicholas being sick. Valmont leaned forward to steal a kiss, before getting ready to get up and fetch the Doctor. “Can I get you anything to make you more comfortable?’ he asked. A doctor? That was what Nicholas was going to do himself but, he guessed Valmont could do it too. A day in bed sounded good but, he had work too. Though that feeling was coming on strong again, he was wondering if he’d have to run to the bathroom again. There was a lot to talk about and he could tell Valmont wanted to talk but, he wouldn’t since he’s sick at the moment. Yes, you can fetch the doctor. I was going to get one later.” He had said. Nicholas watched Valmont roam with his eyes and he couldn’t help but snicker a bit at it. Hearing his words a small shiver went through his body. Maybe Nicholas was the same but, he wouldn’t let that be known at the moment. Feeling the kiss he smiled and watched him start getting up. No, he didn’t want him to go just yet, sitting up Nicholas was quick to throw his arms around Valmont’s shoulder, pulling him back down sitting on the bed. A soft smile came to his lips as he leaned his chest on his back and leaned in to nibble at his ear. ” I know it’s hard, I sometimes do it intentionally, to see your reaction.” He said teasingly. Nicholas hand hand been wondering down Val’s chest now, going lower and lower onto his lap. His head moved down to let his lips plant upon his neck, giving a soft kiss and suck. The hand that was trailing down now pushed into his inner thigh, against his crotch. Slightly finding his soft member and rubbing from the outside of his pants, squeezing once in a while. This would of been the moment Nicholas would of done more but, something came undone. That feeling hit him strongly and as quick as he had been grabbing Valmont, that same pace was now him letting go and crawling off the bed. Sprinting almost towards the bathroom door and it shutting behind him. Again he was once again over the toilet letting out what he had earlier. It had gone on for just a couple of minutes, after it he’d sink down to the floor and groaned a bit. What was happening to him? – The faint smell of smoke slithered into the room where Nicholas took residence in , the Housekeep had been looking for quite some time now for Valmont and having checked all of the other rooms in the area he was certain that this must’ve been the place where he was . A soft double knock on the door to allow those inside to know he was outside as well as asking for permission to enter . He awaited for a reply from within , and would not move from the spot he was in in front of the door without waiting a good 5 minutes just in case. He had to ask Valmont whether or not he wanted his routine room cleaning just like the others of the Embassy members. – ” Anyone inside ? ” It was strange. One minute Nicholas seemed completely fine and then he was even going as far as trying to awaken the Ambassador’s lust with his subtle hand movements towards Valmont’s crotch. The idea that the young man was still sick completely left Valmont’s head, as he let out a slight moan at Nicholas’s attention. Should he really be trying to start something now, he should know that it was hard for Valmont to stop. But…just as things were getting interesting, Nicholas looked green. A shocked expression and before you knew it he was off the bed and sprinting for the bathroom. The door slammed and there was the dreadful sound of dry reaching followed by a nasty coughing sound. Nicholas was being sick…right then and there. Valmont sat up straight as a board on the bed, not knowing if he should go in and hold Nic’s hair for him. This was most unusual. There was no doubt about it now, he would have to send for the Doctor. When Nicholas returned and crawled back into bed, Valmont had lost any urge to play the lover, instead he wanted to make sure that Nicholas was alright. “That’s it. I’m getting the Doctor.” He wasn’t going to dilly dally or go through another ten questions to figure out just what was wrong with Nic. It was pretty clear that it was serious. It was then that there was a faint smell of smoke, that had come from somewhere, and had Valmont sniffing, to see if there was something in the room that had caught fire. Looking around, he then heard a subtle knock on the door followed by a polite voice. “Yes, do come in, Hiei.” Talk about good timing. Valmont went to standing, but made sure to cover Nicholas with a blanket before allowing the House manager to see him in this state. Once the manager was in, Valmont would ask. “Hiei, Nicholas has taken ill, and we need the Doctor right away….as well as a maid to clean and sanitize the bathroom.” Looking to the manager, it would be clear as day to see the worry on the Ambassador’s face. Something was terribly wrong, but Valmont had no clue as to what it was. Nicholas had finished and finally gotten up, turning the sink on. Slowly he’d splash water onto his face and groaned a little. This was beyond annoying, why of all times was he doing this now. Walking out of the bathroom he’d crawl into bed and ignored everything. He heard Valmont rumbling about a Doctor, that sounded really good right now. Who was the other person that came in, Hiei? He must of been on duty, he had seen him around and socialized a bit. Crawling a bit more Nicholas laid his head into the pillow, pulling the blanket up more. His body felt sick and weak, it also felt like something was splitting, he wasn’t sure what it was. Letting out a small sigh he peaked his head out and looked over at the other two men. ” Good day Hiei.” Nicholas said faintly. Shutting his eyes he’d wonder off, his hand sliding to his belly and rubbing it. Never once had Nicholas been sick and he was getting sick now, was this karma? No, it couldn’t be, they had done their deeds and accepted it. Things were going good but, this had to happen. Another soft sigh escaped his lips as he simply laid there, under the sheet with his eyes closed. He wasn’t sleeping but, simply resting for the time being. – Hiei entered the room upon hearing the notice that people were inside ; the voice belonging to Valmont and hearing the context of the message he could infer that Nicholas was with him and when he had entered he would see for himself that they were both here with one in a bad condition . – ” Hello and Good Day to you both . Roger that I’ll get those coming as soon as I possibly can . ” – Hiei whistled as loud as he could ; hoping that it attracted some of the maids to his location via audio. Upon hearing some faint steps of proper services in the distance he would now try to address the other request. He wasn’t sure if he knew precisely if he meant a regular medic or a special one in particular. He would say it in a inquisitive manner so he would know what was meant by it and hopefully he’d know . He’d take a puff and straightened his tie before doing so.- ” The Doctor was it ? ” It was good to see that Hiei was so prompt to rise to the challenge and arrange for someone to come and deal with the mess in the bathroom quickly. If it was one thing he could count on, it was Hiei’s house management skills. The loud whistle resonated throughout the room and sure enough you could hear that the sound of light footsteps coming towards Nicholas’s room was the maid. That was one thing out of the way, but what was important now was that Nicholas was seen too. The nature of his illness was still unclear. Valmont suspected possible food poisoning, but oddly enough they had both eaten the same thing, and as of yet no one else in the Embassy was feeling poorly – at least it had not been reported. With Hiei now asking about which Doctor to call for, Valmont pulled out a card from his coat pocket and handed it to Hiei. It was the business card for Hell’s Kitchen. One of hell’s best physicians worked there and was well known for his dedication to his patients as well as his good bedside manner. He was probably one of the most trusted men in hell, considering he was actually human. “Go and fetch Doctor Schwartz from his office at Hell’s Kitchen. I want the uppermost discretion for Nicholas, and of course the very best medical care.” Valmont’s mind was made up, and now he turned back to his lover and fiance’ who was now looking very pale indeed. The repeated vomiting was taking it out of him, that was clear. “I’ll cancel all my appointments today, Nicholas, and stay by your side.” The Ambassador pulled up a chair near the bed and reached for Nicholas’s hand, stroking it gently.	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4402
__label__wiki	0.731856	0.731856	Presence of sensory nerve corpuscles in the human corpus and cervix uteri during pregnancy and labor as revealed by immunohistochemistry Berith K Tingaker1, Gunvor Ekman-Ordeberg1 & Sture Forsgren1 The uterus is exposed to changes such as enlargement and distension during pregnancy and labor. In these processes and in the process of cervical ripening, proprioceptive information is likely to be of great importance. Therefore, we wanted to study the possible existence of sensory nerve corpuscles in uterine corpus and cervix during pregnancy and labor. Studies on this aspect have not previously been perfomed. Biopsies were taken from the upper edge of the hysterotomy during caesarean section at term (n = 8), in labor (n = 5) and from the corresponding area in the non-pregnant uterus after hysterectomy (n = 7). Cervical biopsies were obtained transvaginally from the anterior cervical lip. Serial cryostat sections were prepared for immunohistochemistry using polyclonal antibodies against nerve growth factor receptor p75, protein gene product 9.5 and S-100. Structures with the characteristics of sensory nerve corpuscles were observed in several specimens after staining for p75, PGP 9.5 and S-100. They were observed in specimens of the non-pregnant corpus and cervix and also in specimens of the pregnant cervix before onset of labor. However, they were absent in all specimens during labor. Sensory corpuscles have here for the first time been detected in the human corpus and cervix uteri. Studies on the importance of the corpuscles in relation to the protective reflex actions that occur in the uterus during pregnancy should be performed in the future. The innervation of the corpus and the cervix uteri has been described in several studies focusing on different aspects. Nerve fibers containing sensory neuropeptides such as substance P (SP) and calcitonin gene related peptide (CGRP) are present in the human cervix [1, 2] as well as in the cervix of animals [3]. It is also known that marked nerve-related changes occur in the corpus during pregnancy. Studies in both humans [4–6] and animals [7] have shown the occurrence of an almost total denervation of the term pregnant and the laboring corpus. On the other hand, there is still a dense innervation in the cervix throughout pregnancy and labor [3, 4, 6, 8], including sensory innervation [2]. It is likely that nerve-mediated effects play important roles in the processes that occur during labor and cervical ripening, particularly effects involving nerves that transmit afferent proprioceptive information. However, it is not known whether the corpus and cervix uteri are equipped with sensory corpuscles, i.e. structures that might have importance for proprioceptive information. Sensory corpuscules are known to exist in ligaments [9–11], joint capsules [12], skin [13–15] and periodontium [16, 17] of various species. Corpuscle-like bodies have also occasionally been observed in the human colon [18]. The corpuscles are known to react on distension and pressure and to play a role as starting points of sensory pathways. It would be of interest to know whether sensory corpuscles also exist in the uterus and convey proprioceptive information during pregnancy and parturition. The aim of the present study was to explore the possible existence of sensory corpuscles in the uterus. In addition, we wanted to explore possible differences in the pattern of occurrence of corpuscles in the corpus and the cervix, as they have different functions during pregnancy and labor. Biopsies from the corpus and the cervix of non-pregnant and term pregnant women as well as women in labor, were examined by using immunohistochemical procedures. Three different groups of patients were studied. One group consisted of seven women who underwent a hysterectomy with a benign diagnosis: six for menorraghia due to fibroids and one for an ovarian cyst. They were all menstruating regularly and none received any hormonal therapy. Another group was comprised of eight term-pregnant women with a normal pregnancy. They had an elective caesarean section performed prior to onset of labor because of fetal breech position, previous complicated vaginal delivery or for psychological reasons. The third group consisted of five term pregnant women in established labor. They had an emergency caesarean section performed due to prolonged labor and/or fetal disproportion. Clinical characteristics of non-pregnant, term-pregnant, and women in labor are given in Table 1. Table 1 Clinical characteristics of non-pregnant, term-pregnant, and women in labor All patients gave their informed consent. The Local Ethics Committee of the Karolinska University Hospital approved the study, which was conducted according to the Declaration of Helsinki. Biopsies (400–500 mg) were taken from the isthmic part of the corpus uteri. Thus, they were excised from the upper edge of the lower uterine segment, where the incision was made during caesarean section. The abdominal serosa and decidua had been removed. Biopsies from the corresponding area in the non-pregnant uterus were obtained after hysterectomy. The abdominal serosa had been removed but not the endometrium. Cervical biopsies (150–300 mg) were taken transvaginally from the anterior cervical lip, including all layers, at the 12 o'clock position, after caesarean section or hysterectomy. Tissue specimens were immersed for 20 to 24 h at 4°C in 4% paraformaldehyde in 0.1 M phosphate buffer (pH 7.0). They were thereafter rinsed for 24 h in Tyrode's solution (pH 7.2), containing 10% (w/v) sucrose. The specimens were then mounted on thin cardboard with OCT embedding medium (Miles Laboratories, Naperville, IL, USA) and frozen in propane chilled by liquid N2 or in isopentane. Serial cryostat sections of 8 μm in thickness, 15 consecutive sections from each tissue block, were mounted on slides coated with chrome-alun gelatine. They were further processed for immunohistochemical examination, using immunofluorescence or peroxidase antiperoxidase (PAP) stainings, or for demonstration of tissue morphology (hematoxylin-eosin). In order to reveal the sensory corpuscles, stainings for p75 were performed at different positions in the series and adjacent sections were stained for PGP 9.5 and S-100 (see below). The sections were incubated for 30 min in a 1% solution of detergent Triton X-100 (Kebo Lab, Stockholm, Sweden) in 0.01 M phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), pH 7.2, containing 0.1 % sodium azide as preservative, and rinsed three times for 5 min each in PBS. The sections were then incubated in normal 5% swine serum in PBS supplemented with 0.1% bovine serum albumin (BSA) for 15 min. They were thereafter incubated with the primary antibody (see under "Antibodies"), diluted in PBS with BSA, in a humid environment. Incubation was performed for 60 min at 37°C. After washing in PBS and another incubation with normal swine serum, the sections were incubated with the secondary antibody corresponding to tetramethylrhodamine isothiocyanate (TRITC)-conjugated swine antirabbit IgG (Dakopatts, Glostrup, Denmark), diluted 1:40, for 60 min at 37°C. They were then washed in PBS and mounted in glycerol:PBS. Examination was carried out in a Leitz Orthoplan photomicroscope equipped with epifluorescence optics. In the case of the staining for PGP 9.5, the sections were initially pretreated with acid potassium permanganate for two min, in order to enhance specific immunoreactions [19]. PAP-staining The sections were incubated in a 1% Triton X-100 solution for 20 min. They were then washed in PBS 3 × 5 min and endogenous peroxidase activity was blocked by 30 min incubation in 1% H2O2. After subsequent washing in PBS, the sections were incubated with normal swine serum for 15 min. Incubation with primary antibody was performed for 60 min at 37°C. After washing in PBS and another incubation with normal swine serum, the secondary antibody was applied (swine anti-rabbit, 1:100, code Z196; Dakopatts, Glostrup, Denmark). The sections were rinsed in PBS 3 times (5 min each), then incubated for 30 min at room temperature with PAP rabbit (1:100, Z0113, Dakopatts), which is prepared from horseradish peroxidase and polyclonal rabbit anti-horseradish peroxidase and to which the secondary antibody used is known to bind. The sections were rinsed in PBS 3 × 5 min once again and developed in diaminobenzidine solution for 5 min. The latter solution was made as follows: one tablet (10 mg) 3,3'-diaminobenzidine tetrahydrochloride (Sigma D-5905) was added to 10 ml 0.05 M Tris buffer and 100 μl 1 M imidazole, to which 10 μl 30% H2O2 was also added. After the sections had been incubated in the diaminobenzidine solution, they were dehydrated and finally mounted in DPX microscopy mounting medium. In the case of staining for PGP 9.5, initial treatment with acid potassium permanganate was used (cf above). Basis for identification of sensory corpuscles Several types of staining were used to identify sensory corpuscles. Staining for the nerve growth factor receptor p75 was done at several levels in the series of sections that were cut. This staining has frequently been utilized in previous studies to characterize these corpuscles [11, 20, 21]. Other sections in the series were processed for protein gene-product 9.5 (PGP 9.5) and S-100 protein. PGP 9.5 staining was used to label the central axon of the sensory corpuscle and S-100 was used for the delineation of the periaxonic Schwann cells of the inner core of the corpuscles [10, 15]. The sections were examined under a Zeiss Axioplan II microscope equipped with an Olympus DP10 digital camera. Rabbit antibodies against PGP 9.5 (Biogenesis, Poole, England; code 7863–0504; working dilution 1:500), S-100 (Sigma, St. Louis, MO, USA; code S2644; working dilution 1:50) and the low-affinity p75 (Sigma, code N-3908; working dilution 1:100) were applied. According to the supplier, the antibody against PGP 9.5 reacts with PGP 9.5 in all mammalian species tested, including humans. The S-100 antibody specifically stains the S-100 protein, including in the Schwann cells of the peripheral nervous system. The p75 antibody is described by the supplier as reacting specifically with NGF receptor p75 (75 kd), and staining the NGF receptor p75 band when used for immunoblotting. It is reported to be specifically inhibited by an immunizing peptide (rat NGF receptor, amino acids 407–425 with N-terminally added lysine). In control experiments, the primary antibodies were omitted or replaced with normal serum. As additional controls, incubation with antibodies against PGP 9.5, p75 and S-100 was performed on slides of tissue known to contain nerve structures including sensory corpuscles (wrist ligaments) [21]. Presence of sensory corpuscles Structures were identified in the non-pregnant corpus and the non-pregnant cervix as well as the term-pregnant cervix (before onset of labor), which on the basis of their patterns of immunoreactivity for p75, PGP 9.5 and S-100 (cf below) were classified as sensory corpuscles. Their morphologic appearances clearly distinguished them from nerve fascicles in the tissue. Some of the sensory corpuscles observed in the present study had a well-developed capsule, showing a distinct p75 immunoreaction, whereas others did not have a clearly defined capsule and showed a diffuse p75 immunoreaction (Fig 1a, 2b, 3a). Serial sections revealed that the sensory corpuscles were rounded or oval structures with a diameter of 25–75 μm, often located in the vicinity of blood vessels (Fig 2, 3). Two sections in the series of sections of a corpuscle and adjacent tissue from a non-pregnant cervix stained for p75 (a) and PGP 9.5 (PAP-staining) (b). Asterisks at corresponding regions just outside the corpuscle. PGP 9.5 immunoreactive nerve fibers are seen within the corpuscle (black arrows). The occurrence of intracorpuscular nerve fibers is observed via PAP staining (arrows, b). Compartmentalization is evident in (a); p75 immunoreaction delineates the contours of the compartments (arrows). Sections from the serial sectioning of a specimen from non-pregnant cervix showing a corpuscle and surrounding tissue. The sections were processed for PGP 9.5 (TRITC staining) (a), p75 (b) and PGP 9.5 (PAP staining) (c). Asterisks at corresponding regions just outside the corpuscle. The corpuscle and the surrounding tissue are shown at lower magnification in (a) than in (b-c). Part of a blood vessel is visible to the right in (a). Arrows in (b) indicate p75 immunoreaction at the peripheries of the small structures that comprise the corpuscle. Black arrows in (a and c) indicate nerve fibers occurring within these small structures. There is a marked immunofluorescence reaction in (a) not only in these nerve fibers but also in approaching nerve fibers (white arrows). Parallel sections from term pregnant cervix processed for p75 (a) PGP 9.5 (b) and S-100 (c). A small corpuscle with marked capsular p75 immunoreactivity is seen in (a, arrows at capsule). Corresponding capsular regions in the PGP 9.5 (b) and S-100 (c) stained sections are also marked with arrows. Fine PGP 9.5 immunoreactive nerve fibers are observed within the corpuscle (b, arrowhead). S-100 immunoreaction is also observed in the interior of the corpuscle (c, arrowhead). V (a-c) at a nearby located transversely cut blood vessel. There was a lack of PGP 9.5 and S-100 immunoreactivity in the capsule of the corpuscles. On the other hand, PGP 9.5 immunoreactive nerve fibers (Fig 1b, 2a and 2c, 3b) as well as S-100 immunoreactions (Fig 3c) could be seen within the structures. The occurrence of PGP 9.5 immunoreactive nerve fibers was revealed by PAP staining (cf Fig 1b, 2c, 3b) and particularly by TRITC staining (cf Fig 2a). Small nerve fascicles containing nerve fibers showing PGP 9.5 immunoreaction were seen approaching the corpusles (Fig 2a). The corpuscles showing a diffuse p75 immunoreaction in their capsule were often seen to harbor small intra-capsular corpuscular structures exhibiting a clearly defined p75 immunoreaction in their peripheries (Fig 1a, 2b). Thus, these corpuscles showed a compartmentalized appearance. PGP 9.5 immunoreactive nerve fibers occurred in the interiors of these small corpuscular structures (Fig 3c). The occurrence of this compartmentalization further aided in the distinguishing of corpuscles. Frequency of sensory corpuscles Sensory corpuscles were clearly identifiable in the non-pregnant stage in five out of seven cervical specimens (cf Fig 1, 2) and in four out of seven specimens of the corpus. In the term-pregnant cervix, clearly identifiable corpuscles were distinguished in three cases out of eight (cf Fig 3). They were not detected in any of the specimens of the cervix during labor. They were not observed in the term-pregnant corpus nor in the corpus during labor (Table 2). Table 2 Presence of sensory corpuscles Control stainings There was no specific staining for p75, PGP 9.5 and S-100 in the control sections from the corpus and the cervix. Parallel examination of sections of control specimens (ligament structures) aided in the identification of the sensory corpuscles. Structures we interpret as being sensory corpuscles were identified in the present study. They were seen in both the non-pregnant corpus and the non-pregnant cervix, as well as in the term-pregnant cervix before onset of labor. The corpuscles were identified via parallel stainings for p75, S-100 and PGP 9.5. Sensory corpuscles in the human uterus have here been described for the first time. From previous studies it is known that the capsule of sensory corpuscles is an expansion of the perineurium [13], [22]. In the present study, the capsule was found to be well-defined, showing distinct p75 immunoreactivity that ranged from diffuse to distinct. These observations correspond to observations made for corpuscles in other locations [16, 20]. The finding that the central regions of the corpuscles showed S-100 immunoreaction are in accordance with the observations that the Schwann-related cells in the center of corpuscles in the skin [23], the posterior cruciate ligament [10] and the scapholunate interossus ligament [11] of humans express the S-100 protein. It is well known that the central arborizing axons of the corpuscles, which correspond to the peripheral processes of Aα, Aβ and Aδ sensory axons, are surrounded by Schwann-related cells. The axons of the corpuscles, including those within the small corpuscular structures, exhibited marked PGP 9.5 immunoreaction. Sensory corpuscles are classified in different ways in the literature, and even within a certain classified type the appearance can vary [13]. Nevertheless, the corpuscles that were found to be distinctly encapsulated in the present study, with a distinct capsular p75 immunoreaction, closely resemble small Pacini-corpuscles [24–26]. On the other hand, the corpuscles that had an incomplete capsule, with an indistinct capsular p75 immunoreaction, to a certain extent resemble the Ruffini type of corpuscles [22], where the perineurium of the supplying nerve fascicle creates an incomplete perineurial capsule around the corpuscles [26]. We found that some corpuscles showing an indistinct p75 immunoreaction at the outer capsule were comprised of small corpuscular structures exhibiting p75 immunoreaction in their peripheries and having PGP 9.5-immunoreactive axons in their interiors. We have recently made similar observations for corpuscles in the human wrist ligaments; these were interpreted as being Ruffini type corpuscles [21]. The small corpuscular structures seen in the present study were arranged in cylinders, as described in studies on sensory corpuscles in the cruciate ligaments [22]. The peripheries of the cylinders are formed from perineurial cells that surround the afferent axons. Previous studies have revealed that the axon branches into enlarged nerve terminals. These are anchored between bundles of collagen fibers inside the cylinders [22]. Accordingly, the perineurial cells of the small corpuscular structures were found to exhibit p75 immunoreaction and PGP 9.5 immunoreactive nerve fibers. The nerve fibers were found in the interior of the cylinders. Future studies at the ultrastructural level will further clarify the nature of the corpuscles. Sensory corpuscles were detected in the non-pregnant corpus. Interestingly, they were not observed in the term-pregnant corpus nor during labor. The observations should be interpreted with caution, as corpuscles were not seen in all specimens of non-pregnant corpus and as the specimens analyzed cannot be said to be fully representative of the different stages. For comparison, nerve fibers almost completely disappear from the corpus during late pregnancy and labor [4–7]. From previous studies it is known that corpuscles on the whole may be dependent on the trophic influence of sensory axonal afferents [27, 28]. Thus, denervation leads to degeneration of sensory corpuscles [29, 30]. Whether there is a causal relationship between the disappearance of corpuscles and the well-known diminution of the innervation and/or the very marked structural rearrangement including the remodeling of the extracellular matrix of the corpus should be examined in further studies. We found corpuscles in the cervix uteri of the non-pregnant group and also, in contrast to the corpus, in that of term-pregnant women. However, corpuscles were not observed in the cervix during labor. For comparison, the general cervical innervation is dense throughout pregnancy [3, 4, 6, 8]. It has been suggested that the density of sensory corpuscles in ligaments may be related to the occurrence of protective reflexes during extreme movements [31]. The concentration of small Pacinian corpuscles to various regions of joints is discussed in terms of protective and stabilizing actions [9]. To what extent the sensory corpuscles in the corpus and the cervix uteri also may have a relation to protective reflex actions should be further examined. It may be postulated that both the presence and the activity of sensory corpuscles are influenced by pressure, distension and displacement. In the non-pregnant stage, the corpus, which mainly consists of smooth muscle [32], responds to distension and pressure with pain and small contractions, trying to maintain its size. An interesting aspect that should be considered in future studies is the possibility that the sensory corpuscles play a role in this protective action. During pregnancy the cervix remains closed until the final softening, recognized as remodeling of the extracellular matrix. It is appealing to speculate that sensory corpuscles participate in that process, for instance contributing to the prevention of premature cervical softening. It is noteworthy that corpuscles were observed in only half of the samples from term-pregnant cervix. However cervix at term can be at different stages of ripening. Maybe the ripening process had started in some of the samples and affected the presence of corpuscles. Further investigations are needed to clarify the function of uterine sensory corpuscles. Structures interpreted as sensory nerve corpuscles in the human corpus and the cervix uteri have here for the first time been described. Thus, the uterus can be added to the list of organs containing these structures. It is well known that the corpus and the cervix serve different functions during pregnancy. The corpus distends in order to host the growing fetus. In contrast, the cervix remains closed in spite of the increasing pressure, until final cervical ripening and onset of labor. Presumably, the corpuscles have roles in these processes. Further studies are needed in order to clarify the details in the classification and the roles of the corpuscles. BSA: bovine serum albumin p75: p75 nerve growth factor receptor PAP: peroxidase anti peroxidase phosfate-buffered saline PGP: 9.5 protein gene product 9.5 TRITC: tetramethylrhodamine isothiocyanate Fried G, Meister B, Radestad A: Peptide-containing nerves in the human pregnant uterine cervix: an immunohistochemical study exploring the effect of RU 486 (mifepristone). Hum Reprod. 1990, 5 (7): 870-876. Stjernholm Y, Sennstrom M, Granstrom L, Ekman G, Liang Y, Johansson O: Neurochemical and cellular markers in human cervix of late pregnant, postpartal and non-pregnant women. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand. 2000, 79 (7): 528-537. 10.1034/j.1600-0412.2000.079007528.x. Collins JJ, Usip S, McCarson KE, Papka RE: Sensory nerves and neuropeptides in uterine cervical ripening. Peptides. 2002, 23 (1): 167-183. 10.1016/S0196-9781(01)00593-9. Bryman I, Norstrom A, Dahlstrom A, Lindblom B: Immunohistochemical evidence for preserved innervation of the human cervix during pregnancy. Gynecol Obstet Invest. 1987, 24 (2): 73-79. Morizaki N, Morizaki J, Hayashi RH, Garfield RE: A functional and structural study of the innervation of the human uterus. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 1989, 160 (1): 218-228. Tingaker BK, Johansson O, Cluff AH, Ekman-Ordeberg G: Unaltered innervation of the human cervix uteri in contrast to the corpus during pregnancy and labor as revealed by PGP 9.5 immunohistochemistry. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol. 2006, 125 (1): 66-71. 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2005.07.020. Lundberg LM, Alm P, Wharton J, Polak JM: Protein gene product 9.5 (PGP 9.5). A new neuronal marker visualizing the whole uterine innervation and pregnancy-induced and developmental changes in the guinea pig. Histochemistry. 1988, 90 (1): 9-17. 10.1007/BF00495700. Stjernholm Y, Sennstrom M, Granstrom L, Ekman G, Johansson O: Protein gene product 9.5-immunoreactive nerve fibers and cells in human cervix of late pregnant, postpartal and non-pregnant women. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand. 1999, 78 (4): 299-304. 10.1034/j.1600-0412.1999.780405.x. Johansson H, Sjolander P, Sojka P: Receptors in the knee joint ligaments and their role in the biomechanics of the joint. Crit Rev Biomed Eng. 1991, 18 (5): 341-368. Del Valle ME, Harwin SF, Maestro A, Murcia A, Vega JA: Immunohistochemical analysis of mechanoreceptors in the human posterior cruciate ligament: a demonstration of its proprioceptive role and clinical relevance. J Arthroplasty. 1998, 13 (8): 916-922. 10.1016/S0883-5403(98)90199-1. Hagert E, Ljung BO, Forsgren S: General innervation pattern and sensory corpuscles in the scapholunate interosseous ligament. Cells Tissues Organs. 2004, 177 (1): 47-54. 10.1159/000078427. Zimny ML: Mechanoreceptors in articular tissues. Am J Anat. 1988, 182 (1): 16-32. 10.1002/aja.1001820103. Vega JA, Del Valle ME, Haro JJ, Calzada B, Suarez-Garnacho S, Malinovsky L: Nerve growth factor receptor immunoreactivity in Meissner and Pacinian corpuscles of the human digital skin. Anat Rec. 1993, 236 (4): 730-736. 10.1002/ar.1092360417. Malinovsky L: Sensory nerve formations in the skin and their classification. Microsc Res Tech. 1996, 34 (4): 283-301. 10.1002/(SICI)1097-0029(19960701)34:4<283::AID-JEMT2>3.0.CO;2-Q. Albuerne M, De Lavallina J, Esteban I, Naves FJ, Silos-Santiago I, Vega JA: Development of Meissner-like and Pacinian sensory corpuscles in the mouse demonstrated with specific markers for corpuscular constituents. Anat Rec. 2000, 258 (3): 235-242. 10.1002/(SICI)1097-0185(20000301)258:3<235::AID-AR2>3.0.CO;2-M. Byers MR: Segregation of NGF receptor in sensory receptors, nerves and local cells of teeth and periodontium demonstrated by EM immunocytochemistry. J Neurocytol. 1990, 19 (5): 765-775. 10.1007/BF01188044. Maeda T, Ochi K, Nakakura-Ohshima K, Youn SH, Wakisaka S: The Ruffini ending as the primary mechanoreceptor in the periodontal ligament: its morphology, cytochemical features, regeneration, and development. Crit Rev Oral Biol Med. 1999, 10 (3): 307-327. Wills EJ, Croker J, Brammah S: Tactile corpuscle-like bodies in colonic mucosa. Ultrastruct Pathol. 2003, 27 (2): 79-86. 10.1080/01913120309926. Hansson M, Forsgren S: Immunoreactive atrial and brain natriuretic peptides are co-localized in Purkinje fibres but not in the innervation of the bovine heart conduction system. Histochem J. 1995, 27 (3): 222-230. Lopez SM, Perez-Perez M, Marquez JM, Naves FJ, Represa J, Vega JA: p75 and TrkA neurotrophin receptors in human skin after spinal cord and peripheral nerve injury, with special reference to sensory corpuscles. Anat Rec. 1998, 251 (3): 371-383. 10.1002/(SICI)1097-0185(199807)251:3<371::AID-AR13>3.0.CO;2-L. Hagert E, Forsgren S, Ljung BO: Differences in the presence of mechanoreceptors and nerve structures between wrist ligaments may imply differential roles in wrist stabilization. J Orthop Res. 2005, 23 (4): 757-763. 10.1016/j.orthres.2005.01.011. Halata Z, Wagner C, Baumann KI: Sensory nerve endings in the anterior cruciate ligament (Lig. cruciatum anterius) of sheep. Anat Rec. 1999, 254 (1): 13-21. 10.1002/(SICI)1097-0185(19990101)254:1<13::AID-AR3>3.0.CO;2-4. Albuerne M, Lopez S, Naves FJ, Martinez-Almagro A, Represa J, Vega JA: S100alpha and S100beta proteins in human cutaneous sensory corpuscles: effects of nerve and spinal cord injury. Anat Rec. 1998, 251 (3): 351-359. 10.1002/(SICI)1097-0185(199807)251:3<351::AID-AR11>3.0.CO;2-N. Vega JA: Cutaneous sensory nerve formations: an overview. Microsc Res Tech. 1996, 34 (4): 281-282. 10.1002/(SICI)1097-0029(19960701)34:4<281::AID-JEMT1>3.0.CO;2-S. Vega JA, Haro JJ, Del Valle ME: Immunohistochemistry of human cutaneous Meissner and pacinian corpuscles. Microsc Res Tech. 1996, 34 (4): 351-361. 10.1002/(SICI)1097-0029(19960701)34:4<351::AID-JEMT6>3.0.CO;2-R. Halata Z: Ruffini corpuscle--a stretch receptor in the connective tissue of the skin and locomotion apparatus. Prog Brain Res. 1988, 74: 221-229. Lewin GR, Mendell LM: Nerve growth factor and nociception. Trends Neurosci. 1993, 16 (9): 353-359. 10.1016/0166-2236(93)90092-Z. Stark B, Risling M, Carlstedt T: Distribution of the neurotrophin receptors p75 and trkB in peripheral mechanoreceptors; observations on changes after injury. Exp Brain Res. 2001, 136 (1): 101-107. 10.1007/s002210000565. Kopp DM, Trachtenberg JT, Thompson WJ: Glial growth factor rescues Schwann cells of mechanoreceptors from denervation-induced apoptosis. J Neurosci. 1997, 17 (17): 6697-6706. Koshima I, Moriguchi T: Denervation of Pacinian corpuscles: electron microscopic observations in the rat following nerve transection. J Reconstr Microsurg. 1999, 15 (4): 273-279. Backenkohler U, Strasmann TJ, Halata Z: Topography of mechanoreceptors in the shoulder joint region--a computer-aided 3D reconstruction in the laboratory mouse. Anat Rec. 1997, 248 (3): 433-441. 10.1002/(SICI)1097-0185(199707)248:3<433::AID-AR16>3.0.CO;2-Q. Granstrom L, Ekman G, Ulmsten U, Malmstrom A: Changes in the connective tissue of corpus and cervix uteri during ripening and labour in term pregnancy. Br J Obstet Gynaecol. 1989, 96 (10): 1198-1202. The investigations presented in this study were supported by grants from the Swedish Research Council (14612 to Prof. Gunvor Ekman-Ordeberg), Karolinska Institute Funds and the Medical Faculty, Umeå University. The authors wish to thank Ulla Hedlund and Lena Jonsson for their skilful technical assistance. Karolinska Institute, Department of Woman and Child Health, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Hospital, SE-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden Berith K Tingaker , Gunvor Ekman-Ordeberg & Sture Forsgren Search for Berith K Tingaker in: Search for Gunvor Ekman-Ordeberg in: Search for Sture Forsgren in: Correspondence to Berith K Tingaker. B. K Tingåker has selected and recruited the patients, collected all the biopsies, participated in designing the study, performed parts of the immunohistochemistry, evaluated the specimens and drafted the manuscript. G. Ekman-Ordeberg participated in the study design, analysis and discussion of the results and critical revision the manuscript. S. Forsgren supervised the immunohistochemistry, evaluated the specimens, participated in the study design, analysis and discussion of the results, drafting and critical revision of the manuscript. All authors read and approved the final manuscript. Proprioceptive Information Cervix Uterus Nerve Fascicle Immunoreactive Nerve Fiber Normal Swine Serum	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4403
__label__cc	0.616399	0.383601	Listen: President Trump, Lord Trump, Washington discussed on What Trump Can Teach Us About Con Law - 6- The Emoluments Clauses "When trump became president he didn't leave behind his ownership of the many hotels golf courses commercial real estate properties and television productions that make up the trump organization around the world his businesses in his rule as president or very intertwined the trump international hotel for example has the presence named displayed in very large letters above the front entrance it's just blocks from the white house trump has called his private club in palm beach mar lago the winter white house so imagine that officials from a foreign nation decide to rent rooms were conference space at a trump property rather than any other hotel in order to curry favor with the president ultimately trump the businessman who benefits from any use of his business is the same as trump the president he's the same person of course the question is whether this activity violates the foreign emoluments clause here's another example imagine that one of trump's companies sold its products or services to a federal or state government agency if estate agents he buys hundreds of trump's steaks and bottles of trump wine trump the businessman benefits but so does trump the president is that a violation of the domestic emoluments clause well here's the problem it's not that there aren't a lot of supreme court cases on the subject there aren't any there isn't a clear answer look at any law school textbook unconstitutional law i can guarantee you there is no emoluments section we've never really thought about it before but we've never we had a president lord trump before the fact that there aren't any supreme court cases or any important legal cases for that matter on either emoluments clause hasn't stop people from going to court brunell now there are three separate emoluments cases the first involves a lawsuit brought by the citizens for responsibility and ethics in washington also known as crew cruz a government watchdog group the second lawsuit has been brought by the district of columbia and the state of maryland a third lawsuit has been brought by one hundred ninety six democratic members of congress three lawsuits all three lawsuits claim that trump is in violation of the foreign emoluments clause the domestic emoluments clause or both." What Trump Can Teach Us About Con Law President Trump, Lord Trump, Washington discussed on What Trump Can Teach Us About Con Law - 6- The Emoluments Clauses What Trump Can Teach Us About Con Law - 6- The Emoluments Clauses President Trump Lord Trump Washington Cruz Maryland Congress Real Estate Law School	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4410
__label__wiki	0.909211	0.909211	Trump says market would 'crash' if he were impeached US President Donald Trump steps off Air Force One upon arrival at Yeager Airport in Charleston, West Virginia, on August 21, 2018 President Donald Trump said in an interview aired Thursday that the US economy would collapse if he were impeached. "I will tell you what, if I ever got impeached, I think the market would crash. I think everybody would be very poor, because without this thinking, you would see -- you would see numbers that you wouldn't believe in reverse," Trump told the program Fox and Friends. Trump was responding to a question on his mounting legal woes after his former attorney Michael Cohen said under oath that Trump instructed him to commit a felony by breaking US campaign finance laws. The US president then launched into a rambling statement on job creation and other economic progress he said had been made during his presidency and insisted Americans would be much worse off if Hillary Clinton had won the 2016 election. "I don't know how you can impeach somebody who has done a great job," Trump said. 'One giant leap': US marks Apollo mission 50 years on Mexico says migrant numbers down but warns of impending crisis	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4422
__label__cc	0.65375	0.34625	King Khan comes to the biggest multiplex- Superplex to promote his upcoming movie- FAN @ Logix City Center, Noida By Aditinona April 15, 2016 Fan Logix Group Manish Sharma Press Conference pvr PVR Superplex Shahrukh Khan srk What’s first love.. People always say that you can never get over your first love, and in my case its true too. Me and Shahrukh go back a long way, it all started when I didn’t know the meaning of love, but felt extremely excited whenever I saw him on screen. From those days of DD and watching Fauji, to then becoming a heart throb with Baazigar, Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa, DDLJ and so many more films, to now also giving me goosebumps whenever I see the FAN trailer on TV, he has been and will always be my first love, my favourite actor, and not just an actor, but my favourite person too. So one can’t imagine the kind of excitement I had when I got invite for the press conference of FAN, which read WITH SUPERSTAR SHAHRUKH KHAN in bold. I nearly fainted, and the first thing I did was to immediately confirm my presence for the event. PVR was hosting a special press meet for the baadshah of bollywood, Shah Rukh Khan and Manish Sharma to promote their latest blockbuster- FAN in North India’s biggest multiplex- Superplex at Logix City center, Noida. FAN would be released at Superplex in the most sought after 4 DX format to give the patrons a real life experience of the action sequences in the movie. Excitedly I called up home, informed my mom and my son, who are also big SRK fans, about the event. They both too felt excited instantly and decided to accompany me for the event. None of us got sleep that night, and I was just waiting for the next day to begin, the clock to strike 3PM, and me to get a chance to finally see my love face to face. Finally the D-day came, and after waiting, patiently, yet excitedly for around 2 hours, SRK walked in the theatre and I could feel butterflies in my stomach. I just could not imagine that I was seeing him live. His poise, his style, his charm, his wit, accompanied him as always and it was a true delight watching him speak as he answered questions asked by the Media. I could not believe my luck, when one of the organizers walked upto me, and asked me if I would like to ask anything to King Khan. I was just dying to do that anyways. I was nervous like hell, when he looked at me, and asked me my name. But somehow, I went ahead and asked my question. I asked him if he has ever been the same scenario as his role of Aryan Khanna, being obsessed by a male fan.. to which he very lovingly answered, “Manish has been the only guy who has been following me since 8-9 years, that’s when he came up with the idea of this movie, and since he has been constantly obsessed with me”. I asked him further, “but have you ever been obsessed by a fan, who is unknown to you, in this way?” He replied even more sweetly, making a slight drooping face, “yaar aaj tak kisi aadmi ne kuch aisa kaha nahi mujhko, sab ladkiyan hi kehti hain”. His answers always leave people in splits, its just the way he say things, the way his wit is always so so charming, that makes people fall in love with him instantly (even those who don’t like him, cannot ignore his charm) More questions poured in and he answered each one of them patiently and with honesty. His honesty is depicted through his eyes. Especially whenever he speaks about his children, there is a twinkle in his eyes that lets you see deep in his heart, which is so true. Mr Ajay Bijli, Chairman and Managing Director, PVR Ltd, said, “We are pleased to host the king of bollywood at our property, Superplex. I am a diehard fan of bollywood movies. The movie FAN looks very interesting. Also, since it would be released in 4 DX format at Superplex, I am quite excited to watch it here at Superplex. I wish Shah Rukh and Maneesh best of luck for their movie.” Mr Shakti Nath, CMD of Logix Group said, “We are pleased to host the press meet of Shahrukh Khan’s movie FAN at the FIRST SUPERPLEX by PVR today at Logix City Center, showcasing 15 screens cinema with Gold Class, Mainstream as well as one of the largest IMAX screens in Asia. It would also house the first 4DX and first Playhouse concept especially designed for kids. Well known national and international brands in fashion, food & entertainment would provide a one stop solution for all the needs of a modern lifestyle.” While addressing the media, the king of romance Shah Rukh Khan also added, “I am a Delhi FAN since I am a Delhiite. I love to come back to the city again and again. I love the positivity and the love shown by the city for my movies. Since a major of the chunk of the movie has been shot in Delhi, I am sure people here could easily relate to the movie. I am thrilled to know that FAN would be released in 4 DX, all thanks to PVR Superplex and logix Group to have built such a grand property to promote movies.” The Superplex caters to an audience of 1,544 across its 15 screens that include three Gold Class, one IMAX screen, one 4 DX screen, nine mainstreams (two screens with Dolby Atmos) and one dedicated screen with special seating arrangements for kids- Playhouse. This also marks the launch of the first IMAX in North India. Located in the heart of Noida at Logix City Center, Superplex offers multiple formats -Gold Class, IMAX, 4 DX, Atmos and Playhouse- all under one roof. Considered as one of the most refined and well-planned formats, this 15-screen Superplex is a one- stop entertainment destination. Logix Group along with PVR Ltd. will provide a holistic, spectacular family entertainment package to the people in Noida and Delhi NCR. Shahrukh spent a good half an hour answering various questions poured by the media, and the public got into frenzy when he started to walk out. Everyone wanted to click a selfie with him, hug him, shake hands and just touch him, and he being the way he is, let the people touch him and shake hands. It would have been too crazy to click selfies, but he did whatever best he could. All thanks to PVR, my day was made. I still would have wanted to click a selfie with the SRK, chat up with him and even hug him, but then there is always a next time. Review Credit – Aditi Malhotra Originally Posted on: http://ikreatepassions.blogspot.in Twitter: @ShivangiReviews Instagram: ShivangiReviews LIKE Us ON Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shivangireviews & spread the joy!! Leave your comments: #‎ShivangiReviews JOIN Our Facebook Group:https://www.facebook.com/groups/shivangireviews/ Food Reviews on: Wix: http://jhenwick.wix.com/shivangireviews Blogger: http://shivangireviews.blogspot.in/ Posted in Badshah, Shahrukh Khan, SRK	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4431
__label__cc	0.747731	0.252269	Dreaming Purple Neon (2016) February 11, 2018 by Corin in Extreme Cinema When determining how well a film works it’s important to first understand the type of film the director is trying to make and judge accordingly. Dreaming Purple Neon wasn’t released by Troma but given the copious amounts of low budget gore, nudity and general cheesiness, it’s something that could’ve fit right into their catalog. That is to say this is not a film that seeks to astound you with mesmerizing acting or a profound storyline but instead hopes to entertain with over-the-top visuals. This is a perfectly valid position for a film to take and one that is harder to successfully achieve than you’d think. So the real question becomes, does it pull it off? When Dallas (Jeremy Edwards) threw on his duster and decided to roll back into town to settle some unfinished business, the last thing he expected was to become wrapped up in a crazy scheme involving demons, human sacrifice, an experimental new drug, and a dentist’s office. Now he and his unlikely group of allies may be the only thing standing between a demonic cult and the destruction of the human race. As I said before, there’s nothing wrong with a film that’s simply over-the-top entertainment, but it’s important that it recognize what it is and commit to it. It’s this self awareness that makes films like Hectic Knife and Father’s Day so successful as they strap the viewer in for their brand of gleeful insanity. DPN does get there, but the first third of the film drags along slowly and painfully until it does. Character development scenes are important, when they work, but in this case neither the writing or acting is up to the challenge of fleshing the characters into empathetic and believable people worth giving a damn about. Writer/director Todd Sheets would have been better served by skipping the melodrama and embracing the drug-fueled demonic mayhem sooner. Once said mayhem does kick in, the film becomes a lot more fun and really starts to earn it’s Extreme Cinema stripes. The special effects may be low budget but what they lack in quality they make up for in quantity as they assault the viewer with the kind of glorious, explicit carnage you can only see in a non-Hollywood production. Gruesome disembowelments, brutal decapitations and even a graphic crotch-drilling (!) make for a lot of fucked-up fun once it hits it’s stride. In the end this is the kind of over-the-top B-movie that’s best enjoyed with a few friends, and more than a few drinks, by gore hounds who have the patience to make it over the initial hump. ← The Forces of Horror Anthology: Volume I (2017) Parallel (2016) → One thought on “Dreaming Purple Neon (2016)” Pingback: Sick Flix: Dreaming Purple Neon (2016) - Psycho Drive-In	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4434
__label__wiki	0.551137	0.551137	Northern elections: historic low turnout – a rejection of Assembly parties The recent elections took place as the North faces into the deepest cuts to public spending in its history. The Executive parties have agreed to slash £4 billion from the budget over the next four years. Peter Robinson said this would be Northern Ireland’s first “bread and butter” election. However, the only significant reflection of this was in the historically low turnout. Repression Overcome in Barcelona Events yesterday in Barcelona gave a powerful indication that the 15-M revolt (in reference to the 15th of May when it began) has much life left in it. The capitalist establishment hoped that following the elections last Sunday, the mass youth movement which castigates all the main parties and their pro-rich policies, would somehow fizzle out. The tremendous response of the movement in Barcelona to the state’s attempt to liquidate the protest seems to have dashed any such hopes for the time being. Video of police repression of Spanish Protestors Disgracefully, Spanish riot police have attacked the protest camps organised in Barcelona under the guise of “cleaning” up the square. Some footage below and news is filtering in across news websites. Youth revolt shakes political elite The movement of May 15 in Spain has shaken the political elite to its core. Leaders and candidates of the main capitalist parties, PSOE and the PP are at a loss as to what to say. The media at first patronised the young people who occupied Puerta de Sol last week, labelling them the usual anti-capitalist suspects. Even as late as last Wednesday the Spanish press was in denial about the unfolding situation. Book review and anniversary: The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists by Robert Tressell is a classic book, which every socialist should read. Although written in the early part of the last century its ideas and characters are fresh and interesting. Its author was a worker who died 100 years ago in poverty but this article and review reprinted from 1977, shows how his legacy lives on. This is what democracy looks like! Members of Socialismo Revolucionario (sister section of the Socialist Party in Spain) have intervened in the Spanish youth movement in 8 different cities and produced a special leaflet for this movement calling for unity with the working class and a general strike, for elected democratic committees of workers and young people to prepare such a movement and for a revolutionary socialist policy. A fuller analysis of this movement and the recent elections will be published soon. Obama’s Record in Power On this day of Obama's visit we repost an article written by American Socialists in Socialist Alternative (sister group of the Socialist Party) which analyses his real record in power. The article was part of a pamphlet written in advance of the mid term elections in 2010 on challenging the two-party system, the entirety of which is available here. As we have explained elsewhere, the Socialist Party opposes the costly state visits of war leaders such as Obama and Queen Elizabeth to Ireland. Readers may also be interested to review this article written one year into his presidential term. Spanish youth movement spreading During the evening of Thursday 16 May, the opposition youth movement that is developing in Spain brought out 150,000 protesters to occupy squares in 57 towns and cities. The youth movement - ‘Real Democracy Now’ - is continuing and spreading. Despite the attempts of the PSOE government to ban the protests, this coming weekend is expected to see a further growth of this youth rebellion. Youth protesters’ ‘Tahrir Square’ occupation After a tremendous demonstration against cuts last Saturday, 14 May, in Barcelona, with 250,000 participants, this week saw the development of the “May 15 movement”. Unemployed and students took to the streets. Inspired by the demonstrations in Portugal and the revolutions in the Maghreb and Middle East, especially Egypt, young people occupied Puerta del Sol, one of the main squares of Madrid. Police repeatedly tried to break up the protest but the youth defended their “Tahir Square”. Building New Workers’ Parties: The example of Portugal Portugal, just like Ireland, is facing a colossal failure of capitalism, IMF rule and a unbearable state debt resulting from bailing out of the bankers and speculators. Just like here, this failure of right wing policies is providing huge opportunies, but also huge challenges, for the left. Very important debates are taking place within the Portugese left, which socialists and working class activists in Ireland should pay attention to.	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4439
__label__wiki	0.651897	0.651897	How can logarithms be used to solve exponential equations? Precalculus Properties of Logarithmic Functions Logarithm-- Inverse of an Exponential Function The obvious use is for equations of different bases, such as for example #2^(f(x)) = 3^(g(x))# You can never get 3 and 2 on the same base without the use of logarithms, so to solve this equation for #x#, you need to use logarithms, so it becomes* #f(x)ln(2) = g(x)ln(3)# And from then on, just solve the equation using algebra, however, what most people forget is that even when you have the same base you're still using logarithms, it's just a step we often skip. For example: #f(x) = g(x)# We're used to going from the first one to the third skipping the second so we forget it's there. Logs also have more uses than just exponential equations but those were mostly important back in the days before the calculator, in which it made calculating stuff much, much, simpler. *I've used the natural log because it's convenient in Calculus and it has less characters to type here, but any base could be used. What is a logarithm? What are common mistakes students make with logarithms? How can a logarithmic equation be solved by graphing? How can I calculate a logarithm without a calculator? How do logarithmic functions work? What is the logarithm of a negative number? What is the logarithm of zero? How do I find the logarithm #log_(1/4) 1/64#? How do I find the logarithm #log_(2/3)(8/27)#? How do I find the logarithm #log_3 1/81#? See all questions in Logarithm-- Inverse of an Exponential Function	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4440
__label__wiki	0.744222	0.744222	Diamond research gives clues to the formation of the continents Category: Other News GIA scientist Dr. Karen Smit lead author of Science magazine article (CARLSBAD, Calif.) - Diamonds, long prized for their beauty and rarity, continue to reveal clues about the early history of our planet. To better understand how the most ancient continents came to be, researchers examined tiny mineral remnants trapped in diamonds during the formation of the earth. The results were published in Science magazine, in the article “Sulfur Isotopes in Diamonds Reveal Differences in Continent Construction” by GIA (Gemological Institute of America) research scientist Karen Smit; Steven B. Shirey and the late Erik H. Hauri of the Department of Terrestrial Magnetism of the Carnegie Institution for Science; and Richard A. Stern, a research scientist at the University of Alberta. Rough diamond from Zimmi in West Africa, near the Sierra Leone-Libera border. It contains a sulfide inclusion with compositions that give clues to how the West African continent formed. Photo by Karen Smit/GIA. “Diamonds are one of the most valuable gems, not only as jewelry but also in geoscience,” said GIA research scientist Dr. Karen Smit, the lead author. “The mineral inclusions in diamonds let us study the inaccessible depths of Earth - somewhere that today’s science cannot otherwise reach.” The researchers examined diamonds from the Zimmi mining area near the Liberia-Sierra Leone border, which is known for producing yellow diamonds. The Zimmi diamonds are classified as Type Ib diamonds because they have rare nitrogen impurities. Type Ib diamonds are exceptionally rare in nature, accounting for less than 0.1% of natural diamonds mined worldwide. By laser-cutting and polishing very thin plates from the Zimmi diamonds, the researchers were able to isolate and study sulphide inclusions, extracting chemical isotopes that offered clues to when the diamonds - and the deepest and oldest parts of the continents - formed. “This kind of insight is possible only because of the unique characteristics of diamonds,” said Dr. Wuyi Wang, GIA vice president of research and development. “GIA’s significant investment in research, unique access to rare diamonds and the outstanding collaboration with the Carnegie Institution and the University of Alberta made this significant discovery possible.” A summary of the Science article is available on GIA.edu: http://www.gia.edu/gia-news-research/diamond-research-gives-clues-formation-continents. GIA has more than 60 years of continuous research on diamonds, colored gems and pearls as part of its mission to protect consumers and ensure their trust in gems and jewelry. The sustained research effort - with more than 60 full-time researchers, 22 with Ph.D.s - yields findings that reach a global audience though Gems & Gemology (G&G), GIA’s quarterly professional journal; the Institute’s website, GIA.edu, where all G&G articles are available at no cost; and the many scientific journals and conferences where GIA researchers share their findings. This research supports the Institute’s industry-leading gemology education offerings, and the identification and grading services of its gemological laboratories.	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4447
__label__cc	0.691931	0.308069	PivotPoint Partnership PivotPoint-Sparx Partnership Promotes Model-Based Systems Engineering with SysML PivotPoint Technology and Sparx Systems today announced a technology partnership that will combine their complementary strengths in SysML training and tools for systems engineers. PivotPoint announced that its “SysML Distilled™ with Enterprise Architect™” workshop is immediately available, and will use Sparx’s new MDG Technology for SysML™ product. Fallbrook, California, October 9, 2006 – PivotPoint Technology and Sparx Systems today announced a technology partnership to promote model-based systems engineering with the Systems Modeling Language (SysML). SysML is the new domain-specific modeling language for systems engineering applications that was adopted by the Object Management Group as OMG SysML™ in July 2006, and is attracting users among systems engineers worldwide. Under the agreement, PivotPoint will be Sparx’s primary partner for training and consulting services that use Sparx’s new SysML product (MDG Technology for SysML™), which was released last week. PivotPoint showed its readiness to partner by announcing the immediate availability of a new “SysML Distilled™ with Enterprise Architect™” workshop, which combines both SysML language and tool training. SysML extends the Unified Modeling Language (UML), the industry standard for specifying software-intensive systems, so that it can also specify hardware, processes, personnel, and facilities. Systems engineers who want to follow a model-based systems engineering process gain at least two important advantages in using SysML. First, SysML is a smaller language than UML 2.0 since it has fewer diagrams and constructs, so it is easier for engineers to learn and apply. Second, SysML adds to the semantic expressiveness of UML with two new diagrams for defining requirements and parametric constraints, which systems engineers need to fully specify complex systems. “SysML adheres to the KISS (“Keep It Simple and Scalable”) principle that all well-trained engineers follow, so it should be no surprise that systems engineers prefer it over UML for specifying complex systems and systems-of-systems,” said Cris Kobryn, CEO and Founder of PivotPoint Technology, who also chaired the UML 1.1, UML 2.0 and SysML standardization teams. “However, for large-scale projects you need more than a pragmatic modeling language, you also need a power tool that correctly implements the language, and automates all the mundane bookkeeping tasks, such as generating allocation tables, enforcing architectural integrity, and verifying requirements.” “After surveying the SysML modeling tool market we found that Sparx was our best choice for partnering for two reasons,” Kobryn continued. “First, Sparx’s track record for producing high-quality, feature-rich and cost-effective UML and SysML modeling tools is outstanding, and their tool performance/cost ratio appears to increase monotonically with each release. Secondly, we found that their executive management is committed to maximizing product quality and customer value, which fits well with our own corporate values.” In addition to the SysML training and consulting services that PivotPoint will provide under the partnership agreement, PivotPoint will also offer UML training and consulting services for Sparx’s award-winning UML product, Enterprise Architect. PivotPoint already offers a “UML 2 Compressed™ with Enterprise Architect” workshop, which combines both UML language and tool training. "PivotPoint has established an excellent reputation for its pragmatic training workshops that emphasize proven modeling principles and techniques, and we are extremely pleased that our partner is customizing its SysML Distilled workshop for use with our new MDG Technology for SysML," said Sam Mancarella, CTO of Sparx Systems, who also participates in the OMG SysML Finalization Task Force. "As Sparx continues to improve our SysML tool capabilities and grow our market share among system engineers, we recognize it is essential that we partner with innovative companies like PivotPoint that share our strong beliefs in product quality and customer value. SysML modelers will benefit greatly from our partnership, since they will be now be able to obtain best-in-class SysML tools and premium SysML training for a fraction of what they might spend with our competitors.” For a limited time PivotPoint is offering a special discount for SysML early adopters who want to bundle "SysML Distilled™ with Enterprise Architect™" workshops with Enterprise Architect/MDG Technology for SysML licenses. For more information about the SysML workshop and the early adopter discount contact one of the persons listed below or visit the PivotPoint web. About PivotPoint Technology PivotPoint Technology Corporation is a software and systems engineering services company that specializes in Model-Driven Engineering Solutions™ for tough business and technical problems. PivotPoint provides premium training, consulting and tool customization services for software and systems engineers who use UML, SysML and DoDAF and other open standards. PivotPoint works with clients in a wide-range of industries that include aerospace-defense, communications, and enterprise information systems. Sparx Systems is a software vendor specializing in high performance UML based modeling tools. Their flagship product, Enterprise Architect, won a Jolt Productivity Award in 2006, is sold in over 60 countries world-wide, and continues to be one of the most innovative and affordable UML modeling applications available today. Enterprise Architect is used extensively in specifying, designing, and managing system development across virtually all industry segments. As a contributing member of the Object Management Group (OMG), Sparx Systems is actively involved in delivering industry standards to the development community. Headquartered in Creswick, Australia, Sparx Systems operates a global network of 230 partners that provide localized sales and training services. Cris Kobryn Estelle Gleeson PivotPoint Technology Corp. Sparx Systems Pty Ltd. +1.760.728.9747 +61.3.5345.1140 pr@PTCorp.com marketing@sparxsystems.com http://www.PTCorp.com http://www.sparxsystems.com MODEL-DRIVEN ENGINEERING SOLUTIONS, SYSML DISTILLED, and UML COMPRESSED are trademarks of PivotPoint Technology Corporation. ENTERPRISE ARCHITECT and MDG TECHNOLOGY FOR SYSML are trademarks of Sparx Systems Pty Ltd. UML and OMG SYSML are trademarks of the Object Management Group. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4448
__label__wiki	0.967769	0.967769	Home Football Transfer news LIVE: Man Utd deal AGREED claim, Mario Gotze to Arsenal,... Transfer news LIVE: Man Utd deal AGREED claim, Mario Gotze to Arsenal, Liverpool bid \| Football \| Sport Transfer news LIVE \| Express Sport is on hand to bring you all the latest rumours and gossipWednesday, May 29Manchester United are keen to sign Bayern Munich striker Robert LewandowskiLiverpool are set to intensify their efforts to sign Lille winger Nicolas PepeInter Milan have already submitted a £53million offer for Pepe, 23Unai Emery has told club chiefs that he wants to raid PSG for Thomas Meunier22:45 UPDATE: Declan Rice statementDeclan Rice has no interest in quitting West Ham despite Manchester United being eager to snap him up.“I know that there’s speculation but during the season last year I just signed a new five year contract with West Ham,” Rice said. “So my focus is fully on playing for West Ham.“I’ve got a great connection with the fans; the fans love me and I love them and that’s the way it is at the moment. I’m not thinking about anything else, for sure.“It’s been crazy. For me to have thought that I’d be playing as a regular for West Ham in the Premier League at 19 or 20 is something that sometimes you’ve got to pinch yourself on.” Transfer news LIVE: West Ham star Declan Rice is wanted at Manchester United (Image: GETTY)22:00 UPDATE: William Saliba latestArsenal legend Lauren thinks the Gunners should go all out to sign William Saliba from St Etienne.Saliba, a 6ft 4in centre-back, enjoyed a breakthrough campaign in Ligue 1 this season and could be snapped up for £25million this summer.He said: “He looks a very good player. Strong, tall, can come out of the back with the ball and an international for France.“He reads the game very well, which is important for a player at the back, you have to anticipate and he looks very good at just 18, so the future is bright!”Manchester United have also been linked with Saliba and are believed to have sent scouts to monitor his progress this year. Transfer News: Man Utd, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea and Barcelona gossip (Image: GETTY)21:45 UPDATE: Paul Pogba to Real MadridReal Madrid have practically signed Manchester United star Paul Pogba, according to Eduardo Inda.Real are determined to sign Manchester United star Pogba as they plot a rebuild following a dreadful La Liga campaign.And Spanish pundit Inda, who was once head of Spanish newspaper Marca, says the player has agreed to take a pay cut.”Pogba is practically done,” he said in reference to the United star and a Bernabeu move. “The first to appear will be Hazard and the next will be Pogba.“He has agreed to lower his Manchester United salary: from £13m net per year to £10m. Adidas is pressing a lot because he is one of the two franchise players of the brand.” Transfer News: Man Utd, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea and Barcelona gossip (Image: GETTY)21:30 UPDATE: Sign Maguire!Teddy Sheringham has urged Manchester United to sign Leicester centre-back Harry Maguire.Sheringham praised the England defender’s leadership qualities and influence in the dressing room,”I think Harry Maguire is the one for me. He’s got great leadership qualities, and even compared him to cub legend Rio Ferdinand.“He’s very similar to Rio Ferdinand, in that he’s cool on the ball and defends very well. That would be a fine start from my point of view,” Sheringham told BetStars. Transfer News: Man Utd, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea and Barcelona gossip (Image: GETTY)21:15 UPDATE: Swansea warningSwansea will not lose many of their squad and players will not be given away cheaply.That’s the warning from Swansea chairman Trevor Birch, who wants full-market value for any departures.“I can’t see there being many,” Birch said when asked about potential exits. “If the Dan James thing happens then there might possibly be one or two.“But you can’t give players away. You’ve got to get the right value for them.” Transfer News: Man Utd, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea and Barcelona gossip (Image: GETTY)21:00 UPDATE: Stiepermann signsNorwich midfielder Marco Stiepermann has signed a new contract with the newly-promoted club.The 28-year-old German, who had 12 months left on his current deal, has extended his stay by another two years, Norwich have announced.”Norwich City are delighted to announce that Marco Stiepermann has signed a new contract with the club, extending his stay at Carrow Road until June 2022,” the Canaries said on their official website.Stiepermann joined the club from Bochum in the summer of 2017 and has made over 70 appearances, featuring in 46 games in all competitions this season and scoring 10 goals.Marco Stiepermann has signed a new three-year deal with us! ��Read more ⬇️ #ncfc— Norwich City FC (@NorwichCityFC) May 28, 201920:45 UPDATE: Maurizio Sarri futureMaurizio Sarri has admitted the result could determine whether the Europa League final becomes the most pivotal match of his managerial career.The former Napoli coach pledged to ignore rumours linking him with a summer move to Juventus.”I want to think only to the final of course, then I have a contract with Chelsea for two years,” Sarri said.”So first of all I will speak with Chelsea, but this is not the moment. Now we have only to think to the final.” Transfer News: Man Utd, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea and Barcelona gossip (Image: GETTY)20:30 UPDATE: Newcastle interestRafa Benitez has enquired about signing Club Brugge striker Wesley Moraes.Moraes scored 17 goals and provided 10 assists in 48 appearances in all competitions.And his exploits in the Belgian league haven’t gone unnoticed.The Chronicle claim Benitez has made contact with the club over the £16million-rated striker. Transfer News: Man Utd, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea and Barcelona gossip (Image: GETTY)20:15 UPDATE: Still no Paulo Dybala…Juventus have reiterated that they have no interest in selling Paulo Dybala.The Serie A champions have already ruled out offloading their talented Argentine international amid links to Manchester United.And Sporting director Fabio Paratici has once again quashed the rumours.“He is one of our players, we have great confidence in him,” Paratici said.“The investment we made four years ago and the renewal of the contract is proof of this. Dybala is a Juventus player, a very important player for us.” Transfer News: Man Utd, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea and Barcelona gossip (Image: GETTY)20:00 UPDATE: Ronald Koeman to BarcelonaNetherlands manager Ronald Koeman refused to rule out taking over at Barcelona.Ernesto Valverde’s future has been called into question after their humiliating 4-0 loss to Liverpool and Copa del Rey final defeat to Valencia.”I think this is about the Dutch national team, so I would like to leave it at that,” he said.Quizzed if he was prepared to give assurances that he will stay on as head coach with Holland, Koeman added: “That would be very easy, but I will not.” Transfer News: Man Utd, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea and Barcelona gossip (Image: GETTY)19:45 UPDATE: Liverpool step up Pepe interestLiverpool are set to intensify their efforts to sign Lille winger Nicolas Pepe.That’s according to France Football, who claim Jurgen Klopp is eager to bring the 23-year-old to Anfield this summer.Pepe netted 23 goals and provided a further 12 assists in all competitions last season to help Lille secure Champions League football.The report adds that Inter Milan have already submitted a £53million offer – and Lille are now awaiting offers from Liverpool, Manchester United and Arsenal. Transfer News: Man Utd, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea and Barcelona gossip (Image: REUTERS)19:30 UPDATE: Chelsea stars CLASH, Sarri storms offDavid Luiz and Gonzalo Higuain were involved in a stunning bust-up during Chelsea training on the eve of the Europa League final.Luiz and Higuain came together as the Blues were put through their paces at the Olympic Stadium in Baku.Higuain appeared to challenge the Brazilian from behind, angering Luiz and causing the defender to lash out with his arm.The pair exchanged words as Cesar Azpilicueta came over to intervene while manager Maurizio Sarri appeared to be infuriated by their actions.The Chelsea manager stormed off the pitch towards the dressing room, throwing his cap on the floor and kicking it on more than one occasions while angrily gesturing towards his players.Tempers fraying in the Chelsea camp? ��Higuain and Azpillicueta come together in training and Maurizio Sarri is furious! pic.twitter.com/mkp6LhSZSY— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) May 28, 201919:15 UPDATE: Kalidou Koulibaly latestManchester United ruled themselves out of the running to sign Ajax captain Matthijs de Ligt on Sunday, and have now suffered a second transfer blow.Napoli defender Kalidou Koulibaly has been a long-term target of bosses at Old Trafford as the Senegal international continues to impress in Italy.However, Carlo Ancelotti has now confirmed that his player will remain in Naples beyond this summer, forcing Solskjaer to look elsewhere.Ancelotti told Radio Rai: “Koulibaly will remain in Naples in the next season.” Transfer News: Man Utd, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea and Barcelona gossip (Image: GETTY)19:00 UPDATE: Matthijs de Ligt twistManchester United have been handed a major boost in their pursuit of Ajax star and Barcelona transfer target Matthijs de Ligt.For a long time, there has been an expectancy the teenager will end up at Barcelona.But journalist Sid Lowe has claimed Barcelona are NO LONGER confident of signing the youngster – and that means he could be on his way to United instead.“A week ago, Barcelona were very confident that De Ligt would come there,” he told the Guardian’s football weekly podcast. “They are much less confident now.“Now I must admit I don’t know what’s happened in the meantime but I imagine it’s an enormous truckload of cash having been driven round a house by his agent, who just happens to be Mino Raiola.” Transfer News: Man Utd, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea and Barcelona gossip (Image: GETTY)18:45 UPDATE: Dean Henderson agrees dealGoalkeeper Dean Henderson has agreed terms with Manchester United over a new contract.That’s according to website Football Insider, who claim the stopper will receive a ‘major pay hike’ to reward his progress.Henderson, 22, was integral to Sheffield United’s promotion to the Premier League, starting all 46 Championship fixtures for Chris Wilder’s side.The report says Henderson will be sent back to Bramall Lane for a season in the Premier League before returning to Old Trafford. Transfer News: Man Utd, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea and Barcelona gossip (Image: GETTY)18:30 UPDATE: Gennaro Gattuso exitAC Milan coach Gennaro Gattuso parted company with the club, two days after his team narrowly missed out on qualifying for next season’s Champions League to extend their absence from the competition to six seasons.Milan confirmed in a statement that the 41-year-old, a combative former midfielder who spent 13 seasons of his playing career at the club, had left with two years to run on his contract.”AC Milan announces Gennaro Gattuso will leave his role as the club’s first team manager by mutual agreement with immediate effect,” said the statement.”A true Rossoneri (red and black) legend, Gennaro stepped into the role during what was a difficult period for the club and has performed admirably, securing the club’s highest league points total since 2012/13.” Transfer News: Man Utd, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea and Barcelona gossip (Image: GETTY)18:15 UPDATE: Mario Gotze latestContract talks between Mario Gotze and Borussia Dortmund have stalled.That’s according to German publication Bild, who claim the forward is hesitant about agreeing to an extension.Gotze, 26, has one year remaining on his current deal and after some positive talks in recent weeks – it appears there’s been a breakdown.The report adds that Arsenal have shown interested and Gotze could be tempted to join former colleagues Sokratis, Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang at the Emirates Stadium. Transfer News: Man Utd, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea and Barcelona gossip (Image: GETTY)18:00 UPDATE: Harry Wilson to quit Liverpool?Liverpool winger Harry Wilson has reportedly told the club that he wants to leave this summer.Wilson, 22, enjoyed a prolific season with Frank Lampard’s Derby – netting 18 goals and providing six assists that nearly saw them promoted to the Premier League.And according to the Daily Star, Wilson has decided to leave because first-team opportunities at Liverpool will be limited.There are no shortage of suitors with Crystal Palace, Newcastle, Southampton and Brighton all reportedly interested in the £25million star. Transfer News: Man Utd, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea and Barcelona gossip (Image: GETTY)17:45 UPDATE: Alexis Sanchez returnArsenal have been urged to re-sign Alexis Sanchez this summer.Several Italian clubs have been linked with the Chilean, who earns around £500,000-a-week at Manchester United.But club legend Lauren thinks the 30-year-old should welcomed back to Arsenal with open arms.“Sanchez is a top player and top players are always welcome at Arsenal,” he told AmericanGambler. “If Emery could get him back mentally because it has been a while without him playing, then he could be a good addition.“It depends if he is the kind of player that Unai would enjoy having at Arsenal.” Transfer News: Man Utd, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea and Barcelona gossip (Image: GETTY)17:30 UPDATE: Gianluigi Donnarumma bidArsenal are eyeing AC Milan goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma with Manchester United also interested, it has been claimed.The Gunners are said to be unconvinced by Bernd Leno and with Petr Cech retiring at the end of the season they are seeking a top quality shot stopper.TMW claim Donnarumma is happy in Milan at present though but Mino Raiola could hatch a plan to move him on.Reports last week claimed Manchester United were on alert as they look to sort out the future of David De Gea.And Raiola could force Milan to sell Donnarumma to get him a big-money move.That could lead to Arsenal and United battling for the signature of the 20-year-old. Transfer News: Man Utd, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea and Barcelona gossip (Image: GETTY)17:15 UPDATE: Andre Gomes latestArsenal are considering a move for Barcelona midfielder Andre Gomes.Gomes, 25, dazzled during his season-long loan spell with Everton last season – forming a solid partnership with Idrissa Gueye under Marco Silva.The Toffees want to sign him on a permanent basis, as do Premier League rivals West Ham and Tottenham.However, Catalan radio station RAC1 claim Arsenal are looking at the Portuguese international to replace Juventus-bound Aaron Ramsey. Transfer News: Man Utd, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea and Barcelona gossip (Image: GETTY)17:00 UPDATE: Luis Suarez exit?!Barcelona would consider offers for forward Luis Suarez.Ex-Liverpool star Suarez, 32, is supposedly deemed ‘transferable’ by the Catalan giants following his display during Liverpool’s epic Champions League comeback.The Liverpool Echo report that Suarez was singled out and accused of a lack of commitment.And his decision to undergo knee surgery before Barcelona’s shock Copa del Rey final defeat to Valencia supposedly worsened the situation. Transfer News: Man Utd, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea and Barcelona gossip (Image: GETTY)16:45 UPDATE: Robert Lewandowski transfer bidManchester United are keen to sign Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski.Lewandowski would be a stunning addition to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side as he looks to overhaul a struggling squad after a disappointing season.Transfermarket Web claim the Manchester United management are ‘dreaming’ of signing the 30—year-old.Lewandowski is one of the most prolific frontmen on the planet and bagged 40 goals in 2018-19 as Bayern won the domestic double in Germany. Transfer News: Man Utd, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea and Barcelona gossip (Image: TWITTER)16:15 UPDATE: Thomas Meunier hijackUnai Emery has told club chiefs that he wants to raid PSG for Thomas Meunier, stealing the Belgian from under the noses of Manchester United.Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is reportedly a fan of Meunier, and had planned to make a move for the out-of-favour defender this summer.However, according to France Football, he will face stiff competition from Emery, who has spotted an opportunity to raid his former side.Emery took over at PSG back in 2016, and one of his first pieces of business was signing Meunier from Club Brugge for £6.1million.It is likely that if either Arsenal or United are to prise the Belgian away from Paris, they will have to pay upwards of £25m. Transfer News: Man Utd, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea and Barcelona gossip (Image: GETTY)16:00 UPDATE: Giovani Lo Celso talksTottenham have opened talks with Spanish outfit Real Betis in a bid to agree a fee for £55million rated midfielder Giovani Lo Celso.Mauricio Pochettino has been looking to bolster the number of options that he has in midfield has been impressed by scouting reports on his fellow countryman Lo Celso.Betis are keen are keen to hang onto Lo Celso who scored 16 times in 45 appearances this season after struggling to make an impression at PSG.But an offer in excess of double the £21 million that they paid in April to make Lo Celso’s loan a permanent deal could persuade them to do business. Previous articleClub value: Real Madrid bully Man Utd off top, Liverpool and Spurs leap up, Celtic join the party Next articleOur Tampines Hub to screen Champions League final, Football News & Top Stories Flash football scores on reliable website \| Sportal \| Sportal \|... It is really simple to discover the flash football scores on a reliable resource. Now... NBA scores, highlights, results: Kyrie Irving leads Celtics past LeBron James,... Arsenal’s Europa League final thrashing by Chelsea undermines Unai Emery’s rebuild... Sierra Leone’s Anti-Corruption Commission appeals against Isha Johansen acquittal Arsenal transfer news LIVE: First signing close after deal agreed, Celtic... How much money football agents earn – and how you become... NBA playoffs 2019 scores, schedule, results: Raptors oust Warriors to win... Frank Lampard records first win as Chelsea Manager	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4451
__label__wiki	0.803176	0.803176	Full Name Ajinkya Madhukar Rahane Ashwi-KD,Maharashtra Bowling Right-arm medium Batting Rank Test - 21, ODI - 54, World Cup - 54, T20I - NA, IPL - NA, CL - NA, Mumbai-T20 - NA Bowling Rank Test - NA, ODI - NA, World Cup - NA, T20I - NA, IPL - NA, CL - NA, Mumbai-T20 - NA Teams Played India, Hampshire, India A, India B, India Blue, Indian Board Presidents XI, India Green, Rest of India, West Zone, Rajasthan Royals, Mumbai Indians, India Under-19, Mumbai, Rising Pune Supergiant, North Mumbai Panthers, India C Man of the Match Test - 1, ODI - 5, World Cup - 0, T20I - 0, IPL - 12, CL - 0, Mumbai-T20 - 0, Career Span [Test, 2013 - 2019], [ODI, 2011 - 2018], [World Cup, 2015], [T20I, 2011 - 2016], [IPL, 2008 - 2019], [CL, 2013], [Mumbai - T20, 2018], Ajinkya Rahane, a right-handed top-order batsman from Mumbai is a perfect combination of talent, consistency and aggression. He made his First-Class debut for Mumbai in 2007. In only his second Ranji season, he piled up a mountain of 1089 runs, which was instrumental in Mumbai's 38th Ranji title triumph. He is one of the few players to have scored 1000 runs in a single Ranji season. Having represented Mumbai at all levels, Rahane was always seen as a bright prospect Ajinkya Rahane Overall Stats 56 95 9 3488 188 v NZ 9 17 389 26 40.55 50.64 73 0 90 87 3 2962 111 v SL 3 24 293 33 35.26 78.63 48 0 8 7 1 208 79 v SA 0 1 21 3 34.66 82.53 5 0 20 20 2 375 61 v ENG 0 1 32 6 20.83 113.29 16 0 139 131 16 3818 105* v DC 2 27 404 74 33.20 122.02 53 0 6 6 1 288 70 v CSK 0 4 27 7 57.60 119.00 0 0 Mumbai-T20 2 2 0 46 28 v AA 0 0 7 1 23.00 124.32 - - 1 1 0 5 1 1/5 v KXIP 0 0 5.00 5.00 6.00 ajinkya rahane News Ajinkya Rahane Third Indian To Score Century On English County Debut IPL: Pant-Powered Delhi Capitals Beat Rajasthan Royals To Go Top Of Table Ajinkya Rahane Slams Century After Handing Over Reins To Steve Smith Ajinkya Rahane Removed As RR Skipper, Steve Smith Replaces Him IPL Highlights: Smith Guides RR To 5-Wicket Win Over MI Ajinkya Rahane Profile Rahane scored runs for fun and his twin tons in the Emerging Players Trophy in Australia forced his way into the Indian ODI team in 2011. He showed both talent and elegance to stamp his authority early in his career. He traveled a lot with the Indian Test squad before finally getting a chance in the 2013 Test series against Australia. Ajinkya didn’t have the best of debuts but he put it past him and only in his third Test, Rahane scored fifties in both innings in Durban. He was often the man for India away from home in a crisis, he showed that in his maiden Test ton in New Zealand. It was his brilliant century on a green deck at Lord’s in 2014 that really made the world take notice. It set up India’s first win at the venue in 28 years. On the tour Down Under, Rahane scored 399 runs in the four-match Test series. His class in whites has never been in question ever since then. He didn’t quite shine in similar fashion in ODIs but scored his maiden ton in Birmingham in 2014. He has had a dwindling time in the 50-over format though with the odd brilliant knock. His 79 against South Africa in the 2015 World Cup was particularly eye-catching. He has been in and out of the ODI side far too often for a player of his caliber. In the home series in 2016-17, he only had one big score, when he registered his career best Test score of 188 against the Kiwis. He fell away post that but chipped in with vital contributions against Australia. India depend a lot on him and it should be interesting to see how he adapts to changing batting styles in modern cricket. In the Indian T20 League, he started with Mumbai but his real success came with Rajasthan. A prolific scorer for them at the top of the order, he was the perfect foil for many aggressive opening partners. He was bought by Pune in the 2016 edition of the tournament and had a fairly decent run. Once Rajasthan returned to the League after a 2-year hiatus, Rahane was once again roped in and also made the captain after Steven Smith’s involvement in the infamous sandpaper gate.	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4453
__label__wiki	0.878167	0.878167	Hockey Star Who Skipped Her Father's Funeral To Play For Country Returns Indian Women's Hockey Team Wins FIH Series Finals, Beats Japan 3-1 Indian Women's Hockey Team Secures Place In Olympics Qualifiers Final Indian Women's Hockey Team Thrash Poland 5-0 in FIH Women's Series Finals India Thrash Canada To Qualify For Quarterfinals Of Hockey World Cup Hockey World Cup 2018: India vs Belgium Encounter Ends In A Draw Hockey World Cup 2018: Shah Rukh Khan, Madhuri Dixit Enthrall Fans During Opening Ceremony Junior Hockey World Cup: India Regain Title After 15 Years in Golden Night at Lucknow "Hard Work Paid Off,": Victorious Indian Women's Hockey Team Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju Felicitates Women's Hockey Team Importance Of National Anthem In Sports India Outclass New Zealand 4-0 In Men's Hockey Test Series Updated: 22 July 2018 20:57 IST Rupinder Pal Singh (8th minute), Surender Kumar (15th minute), Mandeep Singh (44th minute) and Akashdeep Singh (60th minute) scored for India while the team's defence ensured a clean sheet denying the visitors any scoring opportunities. Read Time : 2-min India also won three-match test series against New Zealand 3-0. © Hockey India The Indian men's hockey team wrapped up the three-match test series against New Zealand on a winning note as they thrashed the visitors 4-0 at the Sports Authority of India (SAI) stadium on Sunday. With this, India also won the series 3-0, raising hopes for the upcoming 18th Asian Games, scheduled to be held in Jakarta from August 18. In Sunday's match, Rupinder Pal Singh (8th minute), Surender Kumar (15th minute), Mandeep Singh (44th minute) and Akashdeep Singh (60th minute) scored for India while the team's defence ensured a clean sheet denying the visitors any scoring opportunities. In the first quarter, India took a 1-0 lead after Rupinder scored off the team's second Penalty Corner. He fired low towards the right corner of the post, taking his personal goal count to four in the series against New Zealand. Brilliant stick work by Surender Kumar and a clever assist by Rupinder from the top of the striking circle earned India their second goal of the match. India's third goal was set up by Sardar Singh as he worked magic with his stick making way from the left flank, beating New Zealand defenders to find Simranjeet Singh who later flicked it to Mandeep. A simple yet clever deflection was enough to beat New Zealand goalkeeper George Enersen. It was Akashdeep Singh who was enthralling as he scored the home team's fourth goal in the 60th minute, taking India's winning scoreline to 4-0. Chief coach Harendra Singh said he was happy with his team's performance. "Playing high intensity matches against one of the Top 10 Teams in the World ahead of a crucial event like the Asian Games is beneficial for us," Harendra said. "During these three matches, we tried out different combinations and variations in Penalty Corner (PC) and we are better prepared for the upcoming tournament," the coach said. Topics mentioned in this article Hockey India New Zealand Get the latest World Cup 2019 news, check out the World Cup 2019 schedule, World Cup live score & World Cup Points Table. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for more World Cup 2019 updates. You can also download the NDTV Cricket app for Android or iOS. Rupinder Pal scored off the team's second Penalty Corner. Brilliant stick work by Surender Kumar earned India their second goal. FIH Series Finals: India Maul Japan 7-2 To Storm Into Final FIH Series Finals: India Eyeing Perfect Game Against Japan In Semifinal FIH Series Finals: India Thrash Uzbekistan 10-0, Reach Semis Captain Manpreet Singh's Brace Hand India 3-1 Win Over Poland In FIH Series Finals Hockey India Recommends PR Sreejesh For Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna, Three Names For Arjuna Award	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4454
__label__wiki	0.825348	0.825348	SportsDay Main Menu Search SportsDay Powered by DallasNews.com Sign up for our SportsDay Newsletter Get the latest sports news, coverage and opinion – all in your inbox. Sign Up for the SportsDay Newsletter Brought to you by DallasNews.com This story is about Rangers Published Jul. 2017 Trade of Yu Darvish closes the Rangers' window; how long before it opens again? This Story is About... Share This Story On... Smiley N. Pool/Staff Photographer Texas Rangers starting pitcher Yu Darvish gets a new ball after giving up a two-run home run to Seattle Mariners first baseman Danny Valencia during the first inning at Globe Life Park on Sunday, June 18, 2017, in Arlington. (Smiley N. Pool/The Dallas Morning News By Evan Grant , Staff Writer Contact Evan Grant on Twitter: @Evan_P_Grant You don't announce a rebuild program. No, you announce the trade. The rest is implied. And lest anyone think differently, this is what the Rangers did Monday when they beat the trade deadline by mere minutes to send Yu Darvish to the Los Angeles Dodgers for three prospects, led by a promising hitter without a set defensive position. It was the third trade in a 24-hour span and by far the most significant. Jonathan Lucroy, sent to Colorado, had been underachieving. Jeremy Jeffress, sent back to Milwaukee, never contributed in the year the Rangers had him. Darvish, though, was an ace, or at least the Rangers' ace. You are free to debate "how much" of an ace he is, but the fact is he's really, really good at throwing the baseball. "We've won before when Yu was hurt or when other guys weren't here," general manager Jon Daniels said, with 2015 being a prime example. "Is it more challenging? Absolutely. That was something we weighed in and had to factor in. But I think we're going to put a quality product out there, and these guys are going to keep fighting and stay in this thing." Breaking down the prospects the Rangers received for Yu Darvish, other veterans They might. But probably not. And after that comes the real challenge: the future. Winter is coming. They don't have a center fielder for next year. Maybe Willie Calhoun, the most talented player they acquired from Los Angeles, will be the left fielder, but if he is, the outfield defense is once again going to be a problem. The bullpen needs refurbishing, at the least. The first baseman is a statistical freak who might just become the first player ever to hit less than .200 for a season with an OPS above .800, and who knows how to judge that. The second baseman is a mystery of epic proportions. The Rangers are going to be a mere three starting pitchers shy of a rotation when winter arrives. Darvish is already gone, almost certainly not re-signing with the Rangers, and Andrew Cashner and Tyson Ross are both free agents. They aren't going to come from the top tier of free-agent pitchers; that was made certain when the Rangers passed on negotiating an extension for Darvish. And their replacements aren't going to come from within the minor league system because the upper levels are thin, if not barren. Which is why it is important for the Rangers to stock up on as much inventory as possible. The Darvish deal netted them one starting prospect in A.J. Alexy. They will get something from Colorado for Lucroy and perhaps from San Francisco for Sam Dyson. "We've traded a number [of prospects], we've graduated a number [to the majors]," Daniels said. "We're strong at the lower levels. Our upper levels, we certainly have some players, but not where we want to be and where we will be very quickly. I think when you have the kind of people in systems that our development and scouting systems have, I'm pretty confident that it will look very different very quickly." Darvish should finally get his World Series shot as Rangers wave white flag with trade to Dodgers Perhaps it will come quickly. Who foresaw Arizona contending this year? Or Kansas City? Or, for that matter, the Rangers in 2015 when they were coming off a 95-loss season, then lost Darvish for the year in the first exhibition game of spring and Derek Holland for most of the season during the home opener? Baseball is nutty that way. Even then, though, the Rangers had some collateral left in the minor league system, and they leveraged most of what remained to get Cole Hamels from Philadelphia in a blockbuster deal. They leveraged the rest last year on Lucroy, Jeffress and Carlos Beltran. At the time, the Rangers were trying to prop open their window of opportunity to experience summer breezes and crisp autumns. But winter is coming and there must be preparations. That means having the common sense to know when to close a window. The Rangers drew it shut Monday. This Topic is Missing Your Voice. Only letters, numbers, - (dashes) and _ (underscores) Cannot start with a - (dash) or _ (underscore) Minimum 6 characters, maximum 250 characters By submitting, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. Please choose a display name Story DNA More In Rangers News How Joey Gallo and Nomar Mazara's absence from the Rangers lineup Wednesday is an indication of a larger issue Before the Rangers decide whether or not to trade Mike Minor, here's what they need to ask themselves Willie Calhoun left 'speechless' after Rangers' decision to send him back to minors Rangers stock report: Mike Minor is still a very attractive trade option; does it make sense to move on from Lance Lynn? After loss to Diamondbacks, Rangers are in danger of slipping further down the AL West Adding pieces at the trade deadline could be enticing, but the Rangers must keep their long-term philosophy in mind	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4455
__label__wiki	0.72542	0.72542	Shop Hardware By Invoice On Your Website Payments Platform Square for Restaurants Square for Retail Square Appointments Reader for Magstripe Reader for Contactless and Chip Switch to Square Meet Square Terminal, Square’s new hardware to replace legacy, keypad credit card machines Square expands its hardware portfolio, inviting new types of sellers, from dentists to bowling alleys, to join the Square ecosystem Today, Square, Inc. (NYSE: SQ) announced Square Terminal, an integrated and innovative all-in-one card processing device designed to be fast, fair, and secure. Square Terminal allows sellers to ring up sales, accept all forms of payments quickly, and print receipts, all from one affordable and elegant device. It is the best solution for businesses that use their own point-of-sale solution or manually key in a payment amount, and want to process payments with Square. Square Terminal also offers sellers a fair and flat rate for every transaction regardless of card type. “We love how the hardware, payments, and printer are all part of one device,” said Fabrice Borg, manager of Prive by Laurent D Salon in New York, NY. “Square Terminal makes for a more seamless and professional experience when we bring the terminal to our customers and they can pay for their services right from the salon chair.” Built in-house, Square Terminal has a unique and simple design, giving any business a more professional look. With a battery that lasts all day and both Wi-Fi or Ethernet internet connections, sellers will never have to worry about missing a sale, whether they’re taking payments at the countertop or bringing the terminal right to their customers’ hands. “Payment terminals are everywhere, from liquor stores to dry cleaners to dentists, and with Square Terminal we can now serve these sellers better with new, elegant hardware on top of Square’s fair and secure payments service,” said Jesse Dorogusker, Head of Hardware at Square. “Square Terminal is designed from the ground up to ensure a feeling of familiarity, so sellers and their customers can use it right away. With Square Terminal, we now offer a sophisticated and modern hardware-plus-software solution for every type of business.” “Square Terminal is much faster and more reliable than the hardware we were previously using, and the payments are cheaper, too. Our customers also love that we now accept mobile payments like Apple Pay and Google Pay,” said Carrie A. Green, owner of DeMun Professional Cleaners in St. Louis, MO. “We’re really happy we made the switch to Square.” With no hidden fees, Square Terminal stands apart. Sellers pay one low, transparent, and fair transaction rate of 2.6% + 10¢ for every dip, tap, or swipe payment, and $399 for the device. New-to-Square sellers who make the switch pay just $99 for Square Terminal after a $300 processing credit. Square Terminal enables sellers to focus on their business, knowing Square has them covered with data security, dispute management, and fraud prevention all included in the flat rate. Sellers also receive 24/7 phone support, a one-year warranty, and the ability to try Terminal risk-free for 30 days. Square Terminal is available to order today at Squareup.com/shop. About Square, Inc. Square, Inc. (NYSE:SQ) creates tools that help sellers start, run, and grow their businesses. Square enables sellers to accept card payments and also provides reporting and analytics, next-day settlement, and chargeback protection. Square’s point-of-sale software and other business services help sellers manage inventory, locations, and employees; access financing; engage buyers; build a website or online store; and grow sales. The Cash App is an easy way to send, spend, and receive money, and Caviar is a food-ordering platform. Square was founded in 2009 and is headquartered in San Francisco, with offices in the United States, Canada, Japan, Australia, Ireland, and the UK. Statements in this press release, including, but not limited to, statements regarding Square’s products and expected performance, and expected benefits of our products to users, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 that involve a number of uncertainties and risks. These risks include, among others, incompatibility of technologies, changes to the rules and practice of payment card networks, as well as other risks described in the Company’s latest Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q or Form 10-K, which is on file with the SEC. All forward-looking statements are based on information available to the Company as of the date of this press release and the Company assumes no obligation to update any of these statements in the event facts or circumstances subsequently change. Edie Campbell-Urban press@squareup.com Rent Hardware Buy in Store Compare Hardware Customer Directory Reader SDK In-App Payments SDK Online Payments APIs Developer Dashboard Beauty Professionals Home & Repair Services Partner with Square Square Capital, LLC	cc/2019-30/en_middle_0026.json.gz/line4457

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