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Policy Advisory Board
Responsive Law in the News
Legislative Testimony >
Requiring Public Oversight of Lawyer Regulation
Non-Lawyer Assistance and Unauthorized Practice of Law
Lawyer Advertising
Protecting Client Rights
Simplifying Courts
Online Legal Services and Multijurisdictional Practice
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ABA Commission on the Future of Legal Services
ABA Commission on Ethics 20/20
Issues >
Affordable and Accessible Lawyers
Alternatives to Lawyers
Do-It-Yourself Law
Lawyer Accountability
TIKD >
The Florida Bar v. TIKD
TIKD v. The Florida Bar
Advice on Hiring and Using Lawyers
Clients' Bill of Rights
2018 Top Five
Top Five Stories of 2017
We've compiled our top five stories of 2018. Starting December 17, we'll be updating this page daily until we reach #1. Subscribe to our e-newsletter to receive these updates in your mailbox.
#1: NY Bar Fails to Sneak Rule Against Legal Self-Help Software Through ABA, Will Try Again in January
The New York State Bar Association tried to sneak an anti-consumer, protectionist resolution through the ABA House of Delegates, but Responsive Law's vigilance prevented it from doing so. The proposal would have subjected online document preparation software to a set of restrictions that would have created prohibitive expenses for any such business. A similar proposal that was enacted in North Carolina over the objections of the U.S. Department of Justice and Federal Trade Commission has caused some online document preparers to keep their products out of the state.
The NYSBA submitted its proposed rule to the ABA after the ABA's deadline for consideration at the its annual meeting in August, claiming that the proposal was unopposed and should be on the agenda. Responsive Law quickly responded by submitting a thorough critique of the regulation and pointing out that the proposal was "unopposed" only because no one was aware of it until it was submitted.
The NYSBA withdrew the proposal, but has submitted a revised version for the ABA to consider at its midyear meeting in January. Responsive Law will continue to lead the opposition on behalf of consumers against this new version.
#2: RI Supreme Court to Responsive Law: Please File a Formal Motion Asking Permission to File Informally
Rhode Island's Unauthorized Practice of Law Committee—which consists of thirteen lawyers and one member of the public—recently declared that lawyers were required for real estate closing duties traditionally (and competently) performed by real estate agents. Responsive Law submitted written testimony to the Rhode Island Supreme Court, which is reviewing the committee's decision, pointing out that when lawyers shut down their competition, it's done out of self-interest, and goes against the interest of consumers.
The court rejected our testimony for failing to comply with the requirements for formal amicus curiae briefs. The rules governing such briefs are over 2500 words long—longer than our actual testimony! They did suggest, ironically, that we file a formal motion asking permission to file testimony in our traditional format. Thanks to the work of a volunteer lawyer in Rhode Island, we have filed such a motion and are waiting for the court's response.
#3: Traffic Ticket App Sues Florida Bar for Antitrust Violation
TIKD is an app which allows consumers to upload a traffic ticket, pay a fixed price less than the cost of the ticket, and receive a guarantee that a lawyer will defend the ticket with no further costs to the consumer, win or lose. The app has been understandably very popular with consumers, but was unpopular with the Florida Bar and one of Florida's major law firms handling traffic tickets. The Florida Bar sued TIKD for unauthorized practice of law.
TIKD sued the Florida Bar for antitrust violations, claiming that the bar was trying to shut down competition for established law firms rather than acting in the public interest. In an unusual move, the federal court hearing the antitrust case dismissed it in a one-page order issued on December 4, which was unaccompanied by a memorandum explaining the court's reasoning. Without such a statement, TIKD (as well as other interested parties, such as Responsive Law) are left in the dark as to the basis on which they can fight the case on appeal.
#4: Defeating Indemnification for Self-Regulating Lawyers in California
A California bill would have put taxpayers on the hook for antitrust lawsuits against lawyers who regulated the legal profession in their own self-interest rather than the public interest. The U.S. Supreme Court's recent decision in North Carolina State Board of Dental Examiners v. FTC made clear that state bars can be subject to antitrust liability unless they are adequately supervised by the state government.
Responsive Law and a coalition of other consumer groups let the California Legislature know that this proposal took away a major incentive for lawyers to regulate for the public's protection rather than for their own protection. It also would have made the public literally pay the price for such self-regulation. As a result, a hearing on the bill was cancelled and the bill failed to move forward.
#5: Avvo Ends Fixed-Fee Services After Attacks by Bar
In July, Avvo discontinued its popular fixed-fee legal services after several state bars prohibited their members from participating in the service. As a result, consumers have been denied one of the most useful methods of finding fixed-price legal help for typical matters such as wills, incorporations, and uncontested divorces.
Responsive Law has warned state bars that prohibiting lawyers from participating in such services could subject the bar and its leadership to antitrust liability.
Support our cause and donate. Every penny counts.
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Copyright © 2019 Responsive Law. All rights reserved.
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CSA’s Surreal Copyright Assignments
It’s year seven of the Canadian Standards Association’s (CSA’s) abuse of authority campaign to eliminate its competitor, PS Knight Co, by driving us out of business. Our computers are now crammed with legal documents. In these seven years, and as of this afternoon, our legal files now contain 10,141 documents. Not pages, but documents. Some of these documents are thousands of pages in length, the largest of these being evidence submission files. Put another way, our legal documents occupy over 280GB of disk space.
If you’re wondering, that is what it takes to defend one small business against the malice of the Federal Civil Service.
Well friends, as await the Federal Court Ruling from CSA’s latest duplicate lawsuit (the Ruling was expected on Friday but hasn’t arrived yet), and as we continue to wait for the Federal Court of Appeals Ruling on the other of CSA’s duplicate lawsuits, it might entertain you to read of the solidity of some of CSA’s foundational evidence.
Indeed, it may enlighten on why CSA’s abusing the legal process instead of working within it.
Recall that CSA’s first argument to Court, actually their foundational argument for all of their various litigations against us, is that they own the rule of law privately. The first step in asserting ownership of any text is the filing of copyright assignments covering that text.
A copyright assignment is a document that transfers ownership of text from the author to the entity contracting that author. If CSA pays Sally Somebody a pile of money to draft something, then CSA only owns that drafted something if Sally signs over the copyright for that text to CSA. What she signs is called a copyright assignment.
To claim private ownership of electrical laws, CSA needs to show the Court that they have copyright assignments from all of the people who contributed to authoring those laws.
Well, to support its claim to own electrical laws, CSA filed a full set of 185 copyright assignments with the Court. Sort-of.
Amid the mass of digital paperwork on our system, we have an analysis of CSA’s copyright assignments, exactly as they filed them in Court. It turns out that CSA’s full filing isn’t nearly so full a filing as they claim.
Actually, as far as we can tell, none of CSA’s copyright assignments are complete. I say, “as far as we can tell,” because so much information is missing from their filing that in many cases it’s unclear how much more information ought to be present.
For example, a Mr. Richard Lachance has signed a CSA copyright assignment, but that’s all we know about this assignment. There is no assignment number, no CSA identification number, no company reference at all, no position identified, nor any address, phone number, or any other contact information. No. What CSA filed in this form was the name “Richard Lachance,” and nothing else.
At law, a copyright assignment must be complete, it must have all of this information on every single form. Yet none of CSA’s forms are complete, and most of these have most of the required information missing.
Another example; Representing a company called, QPS Evaluation Services, we have a “D.” That’s their first name, apparently. Elsewhere, on a different entry, the CSA lists the letter “E” as one of its paid up and contributing members. It’s like Sesame Street at CSA. Seriously friends, the letter “E” does not have a membership number, nor CSA identifier, nor corporation, nor position, nor address…… There is nothing on the forms of either “D” or “E” to identify these CSA members or to validate their roles. Or their existence, for that matter.
Moving on, while the CSA declines to identify the country of residence on the majority of its assignments, which renders all of these void, incidentally, they do list the United States as country of residence for thirteen of the CSA members who contributed to authoring electrical laws in 2012. That’s a bit awkward, because giving foreign parties the right to amend domestic law is a violation of Section 46 of the Criminal Code.
That’s right, the CSA admitted breaching the Criminal Code in its own Court filings.
Then there’s a CSA member who lives on 13th Ave. The city isn’t listed, and neither is the province, or phone number so we can’t deduce location from the area code. We don’t even know what country this person lives in. Just that they’re on 13th Ave. Somewhere. In Jakarta, for all we know.
Folks, the filing isn’t valid if none of the parties -ironically including CSA- can verify the CSA’s signee.
The CSA’s membership numbers on these forms, used as identifiers of each assignee, are also noncompliant. That is, the numbers filed don’t correspond to actual membership numbers. Some quoted numbers are three digits, some four digits, some five digits, some are alphanumeric, some are hyphenated, and these issues are found throughout their filings. About half of all membership numbers are missing entirely. And CSA want’s the Court to take these filings seriously.
Well, we didn’t take them seriously. We asked CSA about these numbers during Discovery testimony, about why they were in so many formats and why so many were missing. The CSA had no answer.
So they can’t explain why their assignments are missing the required information, nor why the information which is present is so faulty, nor why any of us should take any of this seriously, save that they’d really like us to. And that was the sum of their response in questioning.
Now lets turn to authorizations. You’ve probably seen legal forms with sign lines at the bottom, and on these forms is found some small-printed blurb such as; “I, the undersigned, am authorized to endorse for Some Company, located at….” The small print here is pretty important, because if the signee doesn’t have authorization to sign, then the whole form is void, hence the need for that authorization blurb.
None of CSA’s forms have any authorization text at all. At law then, all of CSA’s assignments have no validity.
Alright, but, for argument, let’s just ignore all of the glaringly obvious and quite fatal flaws in their filing. Let’s just say that all of their 185 copyright assignment are valid in spite of their invalidity. If so, then all these signatories were authorized to transfer copyright in their work to CSA, according to CSA’s filing.
But is that so?
Nearly all of CSA’s signatories have signed representing companies and governments, foreign and domestic. The signees are mostly senior technical personnel. Is it reasonable that technical personnel, regardless of seniority, have been authorized by their respective employers to bind these employers in a legal contract to transfer from their employers the ownership rights naturally accruing to those employers by dint of the contributions of their own staff, in their own offices, on their own company time?
Hell, no?
I used to work in a large multinational, in a role requiring quite a bit of interaction with external contractors on the particulars of their contracts. I can say with that experience that’s highly unlikely that these signing employees had signing authority for this kind of value transfer.
In other words, even if CSA’s forms had the required authorization blurb, its almost certain that the signatories themselves were not empowered by their employers to sign, making the sum of their signatures invalid.
Looks bad for CSA, doesn’t it? Well, it gets worse.
Beyond the assignments themselves, to claim copyright over any text its necessary to demonstrate a clear connection between the signee and the finished product. That is, even if its committee work, the CSA would need to prove through evidence that each signee was in the committee room, was contributing in the drafting process, and made a meaningful contribution to the wording of the final text.
Alas, the CSA has no evidence at all for any of their assignments. None.
In contrast, readers will recall that PS Knight registered a copyright for our contributions to electrical law, these contributions being made over the course of six decades and comprising ~5% of the 2018 Code. To support our copyright assignment, we filed several thousand pages of drafts, handwritten working papers, original meeting minutes and schedules and agendas, and even included several hours of audio recordings of Code meetings featuring PS Knight contributions.
I mean, we’ve got this locked. The CSA, however, has nothing. At all. And it gets worse.
Recall that each iteration of electrical law contains only 2% of new text. Everything else is carried over from previous editions.
Well, CSA only started collecting copyright assignments for the 2012 edition, meaning that 98% of the Code in that year is, by their own admission, without CSA copyright.
In fact, in 2018, the CSA only has copyright assignments for 6% of the Code (that is, an average of 2% per Code year in each of 2012, 2015, and 2018). And that 6% figure assumes that all of CSA’s, shall we say, fluid copyright filings are accepted without questioning their absurdity.
And for all that, CSA’s dodgy copyright assignments are supposed to secure private ownership of the law itself, a body of text intrinsically public in nature, as we’ve been arguing from the get-go.
Get the idea? Objectively, the arguments between CSA and PS Knight are not equivalent. They are not of roughly equal weight. They are not equivalently supported by evidence. They’re not equal.
You see why CSA’s trying so hard to bankrupt PS Knight before trial?
It’s year seven, and we’ve not seen the inside of a court room on the CSA case that started all this. Instead, CSA’s filed endless motions, demanded pointless hearings, requested that the Court split CSA’s case into multiple segments, each handled by hearing rather than trial, and they’ve duplicated their lawsuit by filing against us multiple times in the same jurisdiction -anything, really, to avoid trial on their evidence.
And, as you know, CSA’s started sabotaging our business, blacklisting us and other, just as nice niceness. The CSA has crawled into quite a gutter lately, and right now we can only disclose a fraction of it.
We await the various Rulings. We hope they come quickly.
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Published By National Benefit Services, Inc.
The Retirement Plan Blog
Helping get your retirement plan from where it is now to where it needs to be
Home > Individual Retirement Accounts > Need a retirement plan for 2008? Consider a SEP
Need a retirement plan for 2008? Consider a SEP
By Jerry Kalish on March 10, 2009 Posted in Individual Retirement Accounts
If you’re a business owner that didn’t quite get around to establishing a retirement plan for 2008, you still have time to establish a SEP. Over at Slate’s BizBox blog, a special promotion by Open from American Express, I posted an article about SEPs with a comparison to IRAs. Check out Smart Retirement Investing for 2008 (You’re Not Too Late!).
Tags: Individual Retirement Accounts
Edited By Jerry Kalish
2004 was a big year. It was the year in which Facebook was launched; LinkedIn was just one year old; and Twitter was still two years away.
But for us, 2004 was the year in which we hitched our social media wagon to a tiny start-up technology firm in Seattle.
That firm was LexBlog which pioneered blogging for attorneys and other professional service firms to connect with our audiences in a whole different way.
Now 15 years later, we’re part of a growing global network of more than 19,000 bloggers who inform and provide insights into the legal and business issues affecting our respective audiences.
Indeed, the technology has taken a quantum leap for us take advantage of LexBlog’s SaaS technology including RSS, SEO, and social media tools to power our blog.
But the critical issue on which we focus has stayed the same: adequate income for employees at retirement.
This blog, then, and our firm's services have one basic objective: to help employers and employees get their retirement plans from where they are now to where they need to be.
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Retirement Funds and Business Startups: Do “ROBS” Work?
The elephant in the room for ERISA purposes could be that “other” company
Defined Benefit Plans Have Issues Too
Take Advantage of ERISA Safe Harbors: They can help penetrate the ERISA fog.
“Compensation” for Sole Proprietors, Partners, and LLC Members…It’s complicated.
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About National Benefit Services, Inc.
National Benefit Services, Inc. is a Chicago-based retirement plan consulting, actuarial, and administration firm that helps employers get their retirement plans from where they are now to where they need to be. The firm's clients include U.S. employers and multi-national employers with U.S. operations.
Copyright © 2019, National Benefit Services, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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3D Grand Prix (Amstrad CPC review)
Developer: Exopal Software
Publisher: Amsoft
3D Grand Prix is a racing game that was also released on the Super Sport II compilation.
Eight real-world tracks are on offer that take place at Zandvoort, Silverstone, Anderstorp, Jarama, Roeun, Brands Hatch, Kyalami and Mosport. Each consists of three laps and you must finish in third place or better to move onto the next race. To accelerate and brake you simply use Up / Down on the joystick, while the fire button changes gears. The game is more of a simulation than an arcade take on the sport and the amount of realism is stunning. Going round a corner too fast will see your controls locked as you skid off the track and eventually come to a halt. The 3D first-person viewpoint looks amazing for the time and the action moves along at a brisk pace. It's all very impressive and little details such as a moving steering wheel and tires that roll with the scenery are all present. There's a nice scaling effect with the cars and scenery and it's even replicated in your wing mirrors. It does take a bit too long to complete a singular lap but the racing is fun and engaging. The tracks are unique and well represented graphically but they're incredibly narrow which makes passing the bulky cars in front of you a real challenge. This certainly adds realism but it can lead to frustration as there are limited straights in each track where you can just speed past them on the outside. The handy wing mirrors do help here though and the key is to use them to see whether you've passed an opponent before heading into a corner, otherwise you'll crash into them. In the first few races crashing isn't a big issue but in later tracks it can seriously hinder you as it's tough to catch up with your speedy opponents. The challenge is fair though and increases steadily so it's possible to see a few of the tracks on your first go.
3D Grand Prix is a technical masterpiece with some solid gameplay to back up the visuals. It's still very playable today and although I'm not usually a fan of racing simulations this one is enjoyable with just the right level of challenge.
Random trivia: Exopal Software also developed another game for the Amstrad CPC that was published by Amsoft in 1985; it was a strategy title called Gatecrasher.
Labels: 1985, 3D Grand Prix Amstrad CPC review, amsoft, amstrad cpc reviews, Exopal Software
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HomeGame NewsSony Extended Fortnite Cross-Play Beta Launches on PS4 Starting Today!
Sony Extended Fortnite Cross-Play Beta Launches on PS4 Starting Today!
Sony have finally decided to allow cross-platform play for Fortnite Battle Royale, after months of controversy from Epic Games accounts being linked with PlayStation Network accounts getting locked out of playing on other systems such as Xbox One and Nintendo Switch.
The original controversy went viral across social media the day that Fortnite launched on the Nintendo Switch. Today, on September 26 – Sony allowed both PlayStation and Xbox players to finally play together after decades of competition. This is a massive historical feat for gaming worldwide, and we cannot wait to jump into the action.
“The first step will be an open beta beginning today for Fortnite that will allow for cross platform gameplay, progression and commerce across PlayStation 4, Android, iOS, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows, and Mac operating systems. We see the beta as an opportunity to conduct thorough testing that ensures cross-platform play is best on PlayStation, while being mindful about the user experience from both a technical and social perspective.”
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Anti-Lock Brakes, The First Technology to Help You Avoid a Crash, Turn 40
When Mercedes-Benz offered the first production car with electronic four-wheel multi-channel ABS in 1978, it launched a safety and performance revolution.
By Máté Petrány
The 1978 introduction of four-wheel multi-channel anti-lock brake systems changed the way we drive forever. Not only was it the first innovation capable of helping you avoid a crash, it also opened the door for the modern performance car technology we enjoy today. But amazingly, the idea for ABS was not a new one when Bosch and Daimler finally put it the W116 S-Class in the late '70s.
Before World War II, French and German engineers (including Robert Bosch) experimented with numerous anti-slipping systems for the railway and aviation industries. In the '50s, disc brake pioneer Dunlop came up with a system that could improve the RAF's braking performance by up to 30 percent. The Maxaret anti-lock brake system was also put on motorbike prototypes, and by the '60s, Ferguson Research used it on the world's first four-wheel drive Formula One car, the Climax-powered P99. When a cutting-edge electronically-controlled anti-lock system was developed for the Concorde, it seemed that the British had reached the pinnacle of the technology. But while cost wasn't an issue on a jet capable of Mach 2.04, the task of making ABS cheap and reliable enough for mainstream automotive production fell to the Germans.
The work at Daimler began as early as 1953, when Hans Scherenberg, then head of design at Mercedes-Benz, applied for a patent on a system to prevent a vehicle’s wheels from locking under hard braking. The challenge was that, compared to aviation and railways, the automobile required more sensors and faster signal processing. The components needed to register the rotational deceleration and acceleration of the wheels without error, including when cornering, on irregular surfaces and in very dirty conditions.
Bosch’s system from 1978.
DaimlerAG
In 1963, Daimler-Benz started working on its first electro-hydraulic brake control system. In 1966, the company began collaborating with the Heidelberg electronics specialist Teldix, which was later taken over by Bosch. The result premiered in 1970, when Hans Scherenberg presented the analog-electronic "Mercedes-Benz/Teldix Anti-Bloc System" to the media at the test track in Untertürkheim.
Engineers got equally busy overseas. Chrysler worked with the Bendix Corporation to come up with a computerized, four-wheel ABS system called "Sure Brake" for its 1971 Imperial. Apparently, it worked. Ford replied with "Sure-Track", adding it only the rear wheels of its Lincoln Continentals. GM did the same for 1972, with the rear-only "Trackmaster" available on Cadillacs and Oldsmobile Tornados.
In Japan, Denso developed its Electro Anti-lock System for the Nissan President, while Toyota produced a similar system for the 1971 Crown.
However, the Benz team went further. They felt that in order to mass produce four-wheel multi-channel ABS, they required a digital controller. According to engineer Jürgen Paul, head of the ABS project at Mercedes-Benz, the decision to use digital microelectronics for the second-generation system was the real breakthrough moment in the development.
From 1978, inconveniences like uncontrollable spins and understeering into oncoming traffic became less of a worry for Mercedes-Benz S-Class buyers. At the time, Mercedes used the slogan "engineered like no other car in the world," and in this case, that really meant something.
When Mercedes-Benz and Bosch unveiled the production-ready technology at a Daimler test track in August 1978, their brochure said the following:
The anti-lock braking system uses a computer to monitor the change in rotational speed of each wheel during braking. If the speed slows too quickly (such as when braking on a slippery surface) and the wheel risks locking, the computer automatically reduces the brake pressure. The wheel accelerates again and the brake pressure is increased again, thereby braking the wheel. This process is repeated several times in a matter of seconds.
Perhaps what they couldn't predict at that point is that, four decades later, every new car sold, from your neighbor's Corolla to a McLaren Senna, would owe a huge chunk of its safety and crash-prevention capabilities to the modern evolution of that first anti-lock brake system.
Maybe you don't think about it, but ABS grants us the most basic form of torque vectoring, as well as steering by braking. It also lets manufacturers set up a number of driving modes that allow for various degrees of tire slip, ranging from almost no interaction to full assist.
Working with the aero kits and monstrous carbon brakes on current performance cars, today's ABS can produce ridiculously short braking distances, cheat huge heavy cars through corners with ease, and help turn enormous horsepower into maximum acceleration. The sensors and processors of anti-lock braking also make possible every modern traction control and stability control system, from the ones that stop your burnout attempts to the ones that make you look like a hero on a racetrack.
Of course clever differentials, good tires and working aero also plays a huge roll, but most of the data sent to the digital brain by those sensors lands back at the ABS controller, a zillion times a second. Be that in a car, a plane, or an old experimental bus that ended up on ice at Mercedes-Benz's torture ground.
Update 8/24: This story was updated with further details regarding the 1971-1978 development period.
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Triple Dose Of Double Dragon Now On Steam And GOG
Shaun Green
I can’t help but feel that DotEmu, the publisher behind new Double Dragon re-releases, have missed a trick. Triple Dragon, anyone? Why, you could even apply a little arithmetic and go with Sextuple Dragon to spice the series up a bit.
Still, even if you disagree with their naming policy, you’ve got to give DotEmu a pat on the back for continuing to port numerous retro games to the PC. Double Dragon Trilogy is available now on GOG for £3.19 or on Steam for £3.83.
I never played Double Dragon back in the day, despite the original coin-op titles being ported to almost every platform under the sun. Since these are the latest versions of the games, though, I’m going to go with the argument that they’re the definitive ones.
Double Dragon Trilogy offers a good mix of features, including graphical and audio options for those who prefer the more authentic retro experience versus the modernised take. Multiplayer is available both locally and, pleasingly, online.
There are also features for weird people, such as keyboard support. I don’t think it too controversial to suggest that the Double Dragon series is best experienced using a controller. Still, if you don’t have one, you can at least customise the keyboard setup.
In the spirit of a bit of good old-fashioned debate: what do you reckon was better, Double Dragon, Streets of Rage, or Final Fight?
Tagged with beat 'em up, brawler, DotEmu, Double Dragon Trilogy, Retro.
Writes music, book and film reviews at www.nostalgiaforinfinity.com. Writes about videogames at www.arcadianrhythms.com. Plays guitar in www.wrecktheplacefantastic.co.uk. Occasionally sleeps.
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RSFAS » People » Antje Berndt
Professor Antje Berndt
Position: Head of Finance
Email: antje.berndt@anu.edu.au
CV: CV (.PDF, 117KB)
Personal Research Page
2016- Professor in Finance, Research School of Finance, Actuarial Studies and Statistics, Australian National University
2018- Head of Finance, Research, Research School of Finance, Actuarial Studies and Statistics, Australian National University
2017-18 Deputy Director, Research, Research School of Finance, Actuarial Studies and Statistics, Australian National University
2015-16 Adjunct Associate Professor of Finance, Research School of Finance, Actuarial Studies and Statistics, Australian National University
2013-16 Associate Professor of Finance, Poole College of Management, NC State University
2005-13 Assistant Professor of Finance, Tepper School of Business, Carnegie Mellon University. Promoted to Associate Professor (w/o tenure) in 2013
2003-05 Assistant Professor, School of Operations Research and Industrial Engineering, Cornell University
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Ed Rendell (AP/Matt Rourke)
"Disrespectful and disgusting": Sexist politicians remind women that their looks still define them
What's next for Ed Rendell and Kenny Havard, running for "Female Body Inspector?"
Check out this article! https://www.salon.com/2016/05/19/disrespectful_and_disgusting_sexist_politicians_remind_women_that_their_looks_still_define_them/
Mary Elizabeth Williams
May 19, 2016 10:02PM (UTC)
It's a wonder male politicians can get anything done, what with their constant obligation to monitor the hotness of all the women in the world. How do they even have time to try to police our bodies when they're so busy assessing them? So thank you for all your hard work as Female Body Inspectors, former Democratic Pennsylvania governor Ed Rendell and Louisiana State Rep. Kenny Havard!
At one end of the spectrum, there's Clinton surrogate Rendell, who on Wednesday chivalrously spoke out against Donald Trump and simultaneously wooed the fug vote. Speaking with the Washington Post, the 72 year-old mused, "Will [Trump] have some appeal to working-class Dems in Levittown or Bristol? Sure. For every one he’ll lose one and a half, two Republican women. Trump’s comments like, 'You can’t be a 10 if you’re flat-chested,' that’ll come back to haunt him. There are probably more ugly women in America than attractive women. People take that stuff personally."
Why yes, let's go out and make those "I'm ugly and I vote! HILLARY 2016" bumper stickers right now, because that is catchy as hell.
Maybe this mindset's not so surprising from an apparent armchair connoisseur of the good ladies of the Keystone State — in 2010, he told Philadelphia magazine, "If someone says, 'I saw you with that great-looking blonde,' I might say, 'Oh yeah, she’s great. She’s hot as can be, she’s the cat’s meow,' in a kidding manner. But the love of my life? That I’m thinking of leaving Midge? No way. I do not have affairs with women, and it’s really unfair. It’s particularly unfair to attractive women. I should go out and find an unattractive woman to have an affair with."
Writing Thursday in the Washington Post, Janell Ross ripped apart Rendell's rock-the-ugly-vote logic, tidily explaining, "There is absolutely no solid factual basis on which Rendell or anyone else can claim that a woman's appearance influences her politics or views of sexism itself. And we know of no other evidence that women want to believe that their president includes them among the ranks of the beautiful." Sure, many of us would prefer that our commander in chief be a human who respects the dignity of all women, who doesn't have a lengthy history of repulsive commentary and actions with regard to our sex. But you'd be hard pressed to find a female voter whose presidential decision making process would go, "He probably wouldn't rank me a ten. Hillary it is, then!"
In the face of a firestorm of criticism Rendell quickly came around on his comments, issuing a full acknowledgment of how truly boneheaded they were. "What I said was incredibly stupid and insensitive," he said in a Wednesday evening statement. "When I read it in the article, I said, 'Did I say that?' It was just dumb, and stupid, and insensitive, and if I offended anyone, I apologize."
But elsewhere, down in New Orleans, Republican State Rep. Kenny Havard is still keeping track of the aesthetic standards of the chicks. But not really! He kids! HE KIDS! With a move that led Rep. Julie Stokes to declare she'd "never been more repulsed to be part of" the House, Havard hilariously amended a bill that would require strip club dancers to be 21 or over to include the provisions that they also not be older 28 or weigh more than 160 pounds. Stop, my sides!
Adding to the mirth, Advocate reporter Rebekah Allen posted a photo on Twitter Wednesday showing how "other lawmakers left these dollars at podium in jest during strip club age debate." Stokes, meanwhile, told her colleagues that "I can't even believe the behavior. I hear derogatory comments about women, I see women get treated differently than men. That was utterly disrespectful and disgusting."
Havard, a 45 year-old married father of two, soon withdrew his merry prank, but he told the Times-Picayune Wednesday that he stood by his remarks. "It was a poke at overregulating everything," he said. "Where are we going to stop? It was aimed at both men and women. I can't strip either. I'm a little overweight."
As the paper points out, the legislation was designed to protect underage girls from sex trafficking.
Hazard also said that he hadn't noticed women being treated differently "at all" in the Legislature, noting, "That's why I'm not going to go apologize. It would give credence to that comment." But speaking with the Advocate, Republican Rep. Nancy Landry said that Havard "was clearly insinuating that women over a certain age and over a certain weight are not attractive." And she added a reminder to gross dudes in power all across the land when she said, "We're here representing 40,000 people back home, and half of them are women."
Mary Elizabeth Williams is a staff writer for Salon and the author of "A Series of Catastrophes & Miracles."
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Nathan Dominitz @NathanDominitz
Jun 22, 2019 at 6:58 PM Jun 22, 2019 at 6:58 PM
COMPILED BY NATHAN DOMINITZ
To list events, email sports@savannahnow.com or call 912-652-0350.
Benedictine Baseball 2019 Summer Clinic: June 24-26, 9 a.m. to noon each day, Brian Parker Field at Benedictine Military School, 6502 Seawright Drive. For rising fourth- through eighth-graders. Registration deadline June 21. Fee: $75. Participants should bring their bat, glove, helmet, baseball pants, cleats and turf shoes. Water is provided, and PowerAde at the end of camp each day. Info: BC coach Kevin Farmer 912-596-8149.
39th annual Robert Sapp Baseball Camp: July 8-12, Richmond Hill Park. For boys ages 7-14; 6-year-olds can attend if skilled enough for 7-year-old group. Camps 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Fees: $135, with team rates available ($10 discount for five or more players from one spring/summer league team or travel team). Info: Richmond Hill Recreation Department 912-756-4626; or Robert Sapp 770-287-3309 or email rsbbcamp@charter.net; or go to website www.robertsappbaseballcamp.com
Cyrus Hunter Basketball Camp: Benedictine Military School. For boys and girls ages 9-15. July 22-26, 8 a.m. to noon. Cost: $125 with lunch, $100 without lunch. Lunch consists of four hot meals with one entree, two sides, one drink. Register at the BC business office, 6502 Seawright Drive, Savannah 31406.
Todd O'Neal Basketball Academy: One Way Hoops summer camps and clinics for boys and girls grades 5-11, all from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. How to be a Total Offensive Package Player Camp, July 8-11, cost $95. Info: Memorial Day coach Todd O'Neal at onewayhoops@outlook.com or 615-946-4143.
City of Savannah, Parks and Recreation Department, 2019 Summer Cheerleading Sports Camp: For children ages 5-15. Session 4 (Georgia Games) is June 24-27 at the Alee Temple Arena from 9 a.m. to noon, Monday through Thursday. The cost for Session 4 is $50 per child for city residents, $55 for non-residents. Lunches are provided. Parents can register children at the door. Doors open at 8:45 a.m. Monday. Use the side entrance at the maroon canopy. Info: Betty Burns at 912-351-3852.
FLH 300 Club Inc.'s annual golf tournament: June 29, Henderson Golf Club, 9 a.m. shotgun start. Cost: $75 per person, includes range balls and lunch. Format: four-person captain's choice. Mulligans $5 (two per individual). Also features longest-drive and closest-to-the-pin contests. All proceeds benefit student-athletes at Savannah State University. Sponsors wanted. Info: Jamie Muhammed 912-484-3521.
Haig Point Foundation's inaugural Charity Golf Tournament: July 1, Daufuskie Island, S.C.: Event supports environmental preservation and community enhancement on Daufuskie Island. Format: Five-person scramble with four players assigned to one golf professional. Sign up for team or individual. Cost: $300 per player, includes round-trip ferry to Haig Point from Hilton Head Island, breakfast and lunch, awards and more. Info; https://www.haigpointfoundation.org/events/golf-tournament
Georgia Amateur Golf Promotions Players Club: GAGP is open to male golfers 21 and older. This is an alternative to being affiliated with one club. There are 125 clubs being organized with 125 play dates over 125 courses within five regions in Georgia. No initiation fees, monthly dues, food and beverage charges, or year-end assessment. Formats are flighted based on age and handicap: Men 21-49, Mid Seniors 50-59, Seniors 60-69, Super Seniors 70-up. Info: John Ungar 614-441-3965 or email gaamateurgolfer@yahoo.com or johnungar@yahoo.com
Living Independence for Everyone (LIFE), Inc., is a partner with Adaptive Golf Savannah (AGS): The group meets the first Saturday of each month from 9-11 a.m. at the Hunter Golf Course on Hunter Army Air Field. The clinic is free. Equipment will be available. Also seeking people with golf experience interested in helping others. Info: Ed Garza at adaptivegolfsavannah@outlook.com
The Barbers of the Lowcountry's second annual Clipper Cup Golf Tournament: July 13, the Barony at Port Royal Golf & Racquet Club, Hilton Head Island, S.C. Event benefits Bluffton Self Help. Registration and putting challenge at 10 a.m.; noon shotgun start. Format: four-person scramble. Pre-registration is recommended. Register at barbersofthelowcountry.com or in-person at the barbershop, located in Sheridan Park in Bluffton. Golfers who sign up before July 1 receive a T-shirt. Fee is $125 per player (includes greens fee, cart fee and lasagna dinner following the tournament, along with a free haircut redeemable in the barbershop).
Savannah Derby Devils roller derby team: Info: www.savannahderby.com.
Savannah Youth Rugby Club: For ages 14-19. There is a boys team and girls team. Coaches are Ditori Garrett, language arts teacher at Derenne Middle School, and Jon-Reed Walker, physical education teacher at Jenkins HS. Parents welcome. No experience required. Email: dgeddis1@gmail.com
Eighth annual Tunnel to Towers Savannah 5K Run/Walk: Sept. 7, 8 a.m., Orleans Square, downtown Savannah. Register: www.t2trun.org. Info: www.facebook.com/T2TSavannah. The Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation honors the legacy of FDNY firefighter Sephen Siller, who gave his life in the line of duty on 9/11. Foundation programs include building custom smart homes for catastrophically wounded military veterans. A portion of the proceeds raised in Savannah will help the 200 Club of the Coastal Empire.
Tormenta FC Academy Summer Training Camps: Multiple locations in Georgia and South Carolina. Registration: https://www.tormentafc.com/summercamps. Info: Brad Nein at bnein@tormentafc.com, 912-257-3989. Savannah camp June 24-28, Islands Branch YMCA. Boys and girls ages 3-14, 9 a.m.-noon, half day $125 (includes training top). Ages 6-14, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., $250 (includes training top and ball). Effingham camp July 8-12, Sandhill Complex. Boys and girls ages 3-14, 9 a.m.-noon, $125 (includes training top). Tom Melville camp July 15-19, Jennifer Ross Soccer Complex turf field Academy-level boys and girls. Boys and girls ages 7-12, 9 a.m. to noon, $125 (includes training top). Pooler camp July 22-26, Pooler Recreation Center. Boys and girls ages 4-12, 9 a.m.-noon, $90. Boys and girls ages 4-12, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., $150 (includes training top). Savannah half day camp July 29-Aug. 2. The Landings Athletic Fields. Boys and girls ages 3-14, 9 a.m.-noon, $125 (includes training top). Savannah camp Aug 5-9, Jenkins Athletic Club. Boys and girls ages 3-14, 9 a.m.-noon, $125 (includes training top). Boys and girls 6-14, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., $250 (includes training top and ball).
Jenkins Athletic Club: May 20-Aug. 2; Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Cost: $75 per week, includes lunch. Info: Billy Covington 912-713-3501, bcovington@vbjbc.com or billy@jenkinsathleticclub.com
Savannah Slam Wheelchair Tennis Tournament: Aug. 17-18, Bacon Park. Men's and women's singles and doubles. Tournament participants must be U.S. Tennis Association members. To become a member and sign up for the tournament, go to m.tennislink.usta.com/tournaments. Info: Zambia Bryant 912-844-1175 or kimedra21@yahoo.com. The event is sponsored by Abilities Unlimited, LIFE Inc., and the USTA.
Port Wentworth classes: Beginners (ages 3-5), intermediate (5-12), advanced (6-12). Registration fee: Port Wentworth residents $35 a session, $65 for non-residents. Also: one-week tumbling camp during June or July. Info: Tiffany Dennis Lancaster, City of Port Wentworth Leisure Services Director, 912-966-7428, tlancaster@cityofportwentworth.com; www.cityofportwentworth.com.
Christian League of Players: Non-profit organization designed to nurture youth, utilizing sports as a tool to incorporate training for future opportunities spiritually, educationally and physically. Open to all denominations. Team age groups are 8-10, 11-12, 13-17. League play began March 19. Cost: $75 per team. Info: Mary Fletcher, mjfletcher@gmail.com, 912-691-4595 or 912-308-8399, or www.churcomm3.com
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JJ Abrams' Bad Robot hires former Fox exec for TV role
By Alex Farber, Broadcast2018-04-05T09:13:00+01:00
Source: Fox Broadcasting Company
Rachel Rusch
Former BBC drama chief Ben Stephenson has hired a senior vice president of TV to work with him at JJ Abrams’ production company Bad Robot.
Rachel Rusch has joined the Westworld producer to work across its slate of projects in development and production, including forthcoming Hulu series Castle Rock and HBO’s Lovecraft Country.
She will report to head of television Stephenson, who joined Bad Robot in 2015 after eight years as the BBC’s drama controller.
Rusch most recently worked as vice president of event series for Fox, where she was responsible for shows including Shots Fired, Prison Break and The X Files as well as musicals including Grease: Live, A Christmas Story Live, The Rocky Horror Picture Show revival, and the upcoming Rent.
Prior to joining Fox she was director of development for Red Arrow’s Fabrik Entertainment, where she oversaw Amazon drama Bosch, while previous credits include FX’s The Americans and The Killing for AMC/Netflix.
Rusch said that Bad Robot is one of the “most imaginative” producers.
“I look forward to seeing just how far we can all go together in telling stories that spark the same kind of inspiration and excitement in our audiences that we feel in making it,” she said.
Stephenson added: “We’ve got loads of big plans for the future, and Rachel’s experience, taste and relationships with writers are second to none.”
This story originally appeared in Screen’s sister publication Broadcast.
Read more: Simon Mirren, Jamie Carmichael launch Atlantic Nomad
UK broadcaster Sky makes key film-buying appointment
Former Sky Cinema director Ian Lewis left the business last week.
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YA Friday: Tropes Spring Eternal - The Fake Relationship
A monthly feature where I examine various reading tropes and share some books that use the trope in their plots.
For the first in this new YA Friday monthly feature "Tropes Spring Eternal," I decided to talk about one of my favorite tropes: The Fake Relationship. This usually blends well with the "Enemies-Turned-Lovers" trope. While this trope may never work in real life, it's always a super fun plot to read (and watch). The trope is essentially that a relationship is formed between the leads for some purpose that requires the pair to appear to be in a romantic partnership. This purpose can be mutually beneficial or one-sided but both parties agree to fake romantic feelings to reach the end goal and they usually end up realizing that the fake romance wasn't so fake after all.
While it can be a bit cliche, and you know they're going to end up together in the end, this trope is a fun one because it is built on tension and "enemistry" (the chemistry between enemies). Often the leads have to spend so much time together that they breakdown previous prejudices and initial impressions and then share quiet moments of vulnerability with one another, which is when the lines between love, lust, fake and reality begin to blur. The tension is heightened even more because even though these two might not be actually dating each other, it doesn’t stop one of them from feeling jealous whenever the other shows interest in someone else. The jealousy is initially brushed off because they can’t possibly be in love with their fake bf/gf...
Ultimately they cast off the initial reasons for faking the relationship and declare their true feelings for one another in some big way, like at a school dance or on the sports field in front of the entire school. They kiss, fireworks, win the big game, and that is when the fake relationship becomes real! :heart eyes emoji:
To All the Boys I've Loved Before, written by Jenny Han
With her idolized sister Margot leaving for college, Lara Jean doesn't feel ready for the coming changes: becoming more responsible for their younger sister, Kitty, helping their widowed father, or seeing Margot break up with Josh, the boy next door—whom Lara Jean secretly liked first. But there's even greater upheaval to come, when Lara Jean's five secret letters to the boys she's loved are mailed to them by accident. Lara Jean runs when sweet, dependable Josh tries to talk to her about her letter. And when Peter Kavinsky gets his letter, it brings him back into Lara Jean's life, all handsome, charming, layered and complicated. They start a fake relationship to help Lara Jean deal with Josh and Peter to get over his ex. But maybe Lara Jean and Peter will discover there's something more between them as they learn about themselves and each other.
The Fill-In Boyfriend, written Kasie West
Gia Montgomery is the epitome of a popular high school girl; she's a pretty, self-centered student body president who constantly seeks approval via social media. New girl Jules has been adopted into the popular girl clique but is really more of a frenemy, always trying to bring Gia down a notch or two. So when Gia's oft-bragged-about-but-never-actually-seen college boyfriend breaks up with her in the parking lot outside the prom, she is understandably desperate to save face. Enter random boy sitting in his car in the parking lot. Gia bangs on his window and demands/begs the stranger to fill in as her boyfriend for the prom. The Fill-In Bradley ("FIB") guy fits the bill, and Gia pulls off the deception to Jules and her friends. But circumstances continue to bring Gia and "FIB" (actual name: Hayden) together and she ends up liking him far more than she ever expected.
Hot Dog Girl, written by Jennifer Dugan
This is going to be the best summer yet for Elouise "Lou" Parker, who is spending the months before senior year working at a local amusement park. This is the second summer Lou and her lesbian best friend, Seeley, are working at the park, and to her dismay, it will also be their last—the owner is closing it down for good at the end of the season. When she isn't in her hot dog costume, Lou spends half her time scheming to save the park and the other half trying to get closer to her crush, Nick. She's getting flirty vibes from him, but he's already got a girlfriend, so bisexual Lou's solution is to convince Seeley to pretend to be her girlfriend so they can go on double dates and she can get closer to him. They're so close people mistake them for a couple anyhow, so what's the harm?
Analee in Real Life, written by Janelle Milanes
Florida teen Analee Echevarria has feared social interaction since her mom died three years ago. Now, she’s dealing with even more personal hurdles: her best friend, Lily, has gone radio silent; she can’t figure out how to express her feelings for Harris, her online role-playing quest partner; and worst of all, her Cuban father is about to marry a younger, Barbie-perfect yoga instructor. When partnered in biology class with insufferable heartthrob Seb Matias, who isn’t over his latest breakup, Analee takes a chance on his wacky suggestion: become a fake couple to make his ex-girlfriend jealous. Heat and humidity levels rise, as do the stakes.
How (Not) to Ask a Boy to Prom, written S. J. Goslee
Unlike other juniors fretting about college, Nolan Grant Sheffield is content to work at the plant nursery forever if he doesn't get into his top school. But among a long list of college prep plans, his older sister Daphne's making her never-been-kissed brother ask a boy to prom—or she'll ask someone for him. Nolan chooses his longtime crush Si O'Mara, out school football star and GSA president. But before Nolan gets Si's answer, classmate Bern intercepts the promposal to save Nolan from potential embarrassment. Suddenly, Nolan finds himself not only going to the dance with Bern, a guy who used to bully him, but also fake dating him. As the relationship starts to tiptoe the line between real and pretend, will the odd couple make it to prom night?
The Stand-In, written by Steve Bloom
Brooks Rattigan has a plan: do everything in his power to get into Columbia University and out of Pritchard, NJ. When Brooks overhears a classmate trying to find a date for his cousin to homecoming, he offers to take her and becomes The Stand-In. He quits his job at the local sub shop, and what started out as a onetime gesture of goodwill becomes a lucrative business. The teen spends his weekends taking girls to their dances and parties in an attempt to make them feel special and build his college fund. Will Brooks be able to handle college applications, a stoner dad, a slacker best friend, difficult clients, and the girl of his dreams?
Submitted by Megan Maloy on Friday, May 10, 2019 - 12:00 PM.
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Blog > Angel Groups
Angel Investors: The Lifeblood of Startup Formation
New “Angel Tax Credit Act” to generate major job creation
U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) with Congressmen Steve Chabot (R-Ohio) and Patrick Murphy (D-Fl.) recently introduced the Angel Tax Credit Act, a bill designed to boost investment in startups through tax incentives for angel investors. Startups represent the core of America’s economy, a source of both innovation and job growth that the Angel Tax Credit Act intends to bolster.
The crux of our mission at SeedInvest is to simplify the investment process for both entrepreneurs and investors alike. Part of that simplification process depends on the entrepreneur’s access to capital, the primary obstacle for early stage startups. The Angel Tax Credit Act presents part of the solution to this issue. By widening the pool of investors while increasing the amount of capital available for startups, the Angel Tax Credit Act is a potential game-changer for startup financing and job creation.
With American startup creation on the decline, it’s imperative for legislators to carefully craft policies that prioritize homegrown innovation and job growth. On a state level, tax credits for angel investors boast impressive results: Connecticut nearly quadrupled investment pledges upon implementation with comparable data in other similarly situated states.
The Angel Tax Credit Act would extend this success to a federal level, feeding more capital into our entrepreneurial communities, creating quality jobs on a national scale, and securing the American foothold as the global market leader for innovation.
Why? American startup creation is on the decline. The Angel Tax Credit Act marks a definitive response to the recent decline in American startup creation. Early stage startups already endure an arduous process of raising capital, a harsh reality of entrepreneurism that often deters participation. Enter the Angel Tax Credit Act, which identifies access to seed capital as the primary ingredient for sustainable startup creation. In the words of Congressman Steve Chabot: “Right now, the biggest impediment to job creation confronting startups is the difficulty they experience accessing adequate capital to grow and expand. By incentivizing more investment by angel investors, this tax credit will help to provide the startup community with the needed capital to grow, innovate and create quality jobs across the nation.”
The bipartisan appeal of this bill is the widespread recognition of small business as the foundation for economic growth. Almost everyone can agree that American economic policy ought to prioritize small businesses creation—the debate revolves around how to best achieve that. How? Incentivize angel investors to invest more capital in startups. The Angel Tax Credit Act would allow angel investors to claim a tax credit of 25% for investments of $25k or more to high-tech startups based in the United States. The bill’s backers modeled the tax credit after Connecticut state law. Since its inception in 2010, the success of Connecticut’s tax credit mechanism is undeniable: 200 investments in over 50 companies by 90 angels; plus, in 2012 when Connecticut regulators lowered the angel tax threshold from $100k to $25k, overall investment pledges increased by 358%, rising from $2.4m to $8.6m. The effectiveness of Connecticut’s tax credit signals that a federal version would support further support startup formation. Economic power in today’s global environment increasingly depends on the high-tech sector. As a result, the most effective economic policies target job growth for engineers, scientists, and other technical positions—exactly what the Angel Tax Credit Act stands to promote. Angel Capital Association’s executive director Marianne Hudson highlights the attractive features of federal tax credits:
“Some studies have found that credits help attract new people to investing in startups, lead to more total investment dollars and also provide government returns in the form of employment taxes paid by the growing companies that benefitted from these programs.”
Who? Angel investors: the lifeblood of startup formation.
Angel investors finance the majority of early stage startups in the United States. The estimated impact of angel investing on job growth hovers around 275,000 new jobs for the fiscal 2012. Angel investors, often entrepreneurs themselves, contribute a vital aspect of the American economic ecosystem: the reinvestment of their capital in new startups. The inherent risk of such investments is certainly offset by its economic benefits for society. However, concerns such as new job creation and economic revitalization reach beyond the immediate financial interests of angel investors. Because angels support the American economy in ways with no immediate benefit to them as individual investors, the tax credit is a sensible mechanism in spreading the costs. Congressman Patrick Murphy explains the dynamic in terms of access to capital: “Startups and small businesses are the most efficient job creators in the United States. American entrepreneurs are known all over the world for their spirit of innovation and for their ability to quickly develop and commercialize new technologies. Startups are inherently risky endeavors and often cannot get a traditional loan from a bank. This is where angel investors step in – these individuals and small groups are willing to take the financial risk. Especially during this fragile economic recovery, angel investors are an essential piece of the capital ecosystem.”
Another reason for the immediacy of these angel tax credits is the absence of alternative channels of capital for early stage startups. Banks? Nope, too much risk. Government grants? Not enough cash. VC funds? Come back once you raise blah amount and generate blah interest, then we’ll talk. The initial steps of startups depend on financial support from angels—support that no one else is in a position to offer. Tax credits for angel investors help the cause in two ways: (1) they allot more money to angel investors to pump into the startup arena; (2) they encourage new angel investors to join the space. Senator Chris Murphy recognizes that “small businesses and startups are the backbone of our economy” and that “we need to be doing everything we can to help create jobs in high-growth industries, especially in fields like science and technology, where innovation is limitless.”
So? Next steps.
The Angel Tax Credit Act and its backers have their work cut out to turn this bill into law. With the success of credits on a state-level along with the bipartisan appeal of increasing startup formation, these credits definitely stand a chance. With the potential to increase startup formation, contribute to domestic job growth, and strengthen high-tech sectors in the United States, the Angel Tax Credit could be hugely beneficial for our economy. We here at SeedInvest support the committee’s objectives to help American startups and will stay involved through the process.
Learn More: http://www.bls.gov/bdm/entrepreneurship/entrepreneurship.htm
This post was written by monkseaman on September 23, 2016
Tags:Angel GroupsAngel Investing
One thought on “Angel Investors: The Lifeblood of Startup Formation”
Agreed wholeheartedly
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New Resource Guide Features Industry Services Offered by SEMA Members
SEMA News—July 2019
By SEMA Editors
The SEMA “2019 Business Resource Guide” features contact information and descriptions of SEMA-member companies offering services specific to the automotive aftermarket industry.
SEMA recently announced the availability of its newest member benefit: the “2019 Business Resource Guide.” The guide, which is available electronically at www.sema.org and is included in a print version through the May issue of SEMA News, features contact information and descriptions of SEMA-member companies offering services specific to the automotive aftermarket industry.
The guide includes listings for advertising agencies, consultants, export management companies, importers, internet-related services, manufacturers’ reps firms, promoters, publishers and media companies, and trade schools, universities and colleges.
The guide also highlights a sample of the cost-saving benefits offered to all SEMA members. The benefits available include unlimited access to the world’s most complete data repository, improved flat-rate pricing through UPS, access to insurance with lower costs and better coverage, member exclusives at the annual SEMA Show, and more.
Gigi Ho joined the SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) as director of operations.
e-commerce Expert Gigi Ho Joins SEMA Data Co-op Team
Gigi Ho joined the SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) as director of operations. She will be based at SEMA headquarters in Diamond Bar, California, and will report directly to Mike Spagnola, SEMA vice president of OEM and product development programs.
Ho has more than 18 years of experience in the automotive aftermarket and more than 25 years of experience in technology, developing and launching leading-edge SaaS-based data solutions for the automotive aftermarket. She started Digital Performance Inc. in 2001, joined DCi in 2014, and was recently with PartsHub.
“Gigi has a great affinity for the industry and believes that the advancement of technology and education can prepare and drive the industry well into the future,” Spagnola said. “She has also participated with many SEMA committees and initiatives as well as speaking to the industry on topics of data, e-commerce and marketing, so she understands both the industry and SEMA exceptionally well.”
Permatex moved its headquarters to a 350,000 sq.-ft. facility in Solon, Ohio.
Permatex Moves Headquarters to 350,000-Sq.-Ft. Facility in Solon, Ohio
Permatex has moved its business operations recently from Hartford, Connecticut, to its Solon, Ohio, facility, where manufacturing and distribution centers are already in place. The new Permatex headquarters is located at: ITW Permatex Inc., 6875 Parkland Blvd., Solon, OH, 44139. The location currently consists of a 180,000-sq.-ft. distribution center and 170,000-sq.-ft. facility that supports the manufacturing and business operations. The campus has room for Permatex to double the size of its headquarters to 700,000 sq. ft. to accommodate new growth. The facility is home to 19 high-tech robots designed for the elimination of repetitive motion and to lighten the amount of heavy lifting done by Permatex employees.
VP Racing Fuels Inc. has opened its first-ever VP Fastlube quick lube center in Fredericksburg, Texas.
VP Racing Fuels Opens First-Ever VP Fastlube Oil Change Center
VP Racing Fuels Inc. has announced the opening of its first-ever VP Fastlube quick lube centers in Fredricksburg, Texas. VP Fastlube offers a credit card program with low rates, a preferred supplier program and savings on bulk oils.
Westin Acquires Superwinch
Westin has announced it has added Superwinch to its family of automotive products. Westin plans to expand upon the current Superwinch product offerings, with new designs in the future, while providing distributors with additional added value through its line of winch-capable products. In the coming weeks, Westin will work on new Superwinch product programs, availability and marketing materials.
Select ratingGive New Resource Guide Features Industry Services Offered by SEMA Members 1/5Give New Resource Guide Features Industry Services Offered by SEMA Members 2/5Give New Resource Guide Features Industry Services Offered by SEMA Members 3/5Give New Resource Guide Features Industry Services Offered by SEMA Members 4/5Give New Resource Guide Features Industry Services Offered by SEMA Members 5/5
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Who Makes the Cut? What the Skull Masks and Skulls of the Templo Mayor Tell Us About Aztec War and Sacrifice : Corey Ragsdale
On March 26, 2014, Corey presented his research at the Latin American & Iberian Institute.
This research was supported by a LAII and Tinker Foundation Field Research Grant and a LAII PhD Fellowship.
Corey's research focuses on the effects that cultural relationships have on population structure and interaction during the Postclassic period (AD 900-1520) in Mexico. Using dental morphological features as a proxy for genetic information, his research compares the biological distinctions between sacrificial victims by examining geographic distance, migration history, trade, and political interaction. The research investigates these relationships at the group and individual levels.
In this video, Corey discusses the archaeobiological information provided by the skulls from the Templo Mayor, located in the Aztec capital city of Tenochtitlan. Using available cranial/dental data among the sacrificial victims, he evaluates how war and status effect the treatment of human remains in the Late Postclassic period (AD 1300-1520) at Tenochtitlan.
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South Ayrshire parking patrols move into the twilight zone
Parking patrols will be extended into the evening from Monday 13 August
Inconsiderate drivers who park wherever they like after business hours are in for a shock in South Ayrshire towns as Ayrshire Roads Alliance (ARA) gets set to introduce evening parking patrols in an effort to tackle indiscriminate parking.
The move follows calls from local communities about the dangers and hazards caused by dangerous or indiscriminate parking such as parking in bus stops, at roads junctions, and on double yellow lines.
To remind people that the rules of the road should be obeyed at all times, ARA is introducing extended working patterns for wardens to tackle the problem head-on and demonstrate that nuisance parking is unacceptable and will not be tolerated at any time of the day.
And, just like during daytime patrols, penalty charge notices will be issued to anyone who has failed to park legally.
Councillor Ian Cochrane, South Ayrshire Council's Portfolio Holder for Sustainability and the Environment, explained: "Our parking attendants do a great job at ensuring drivers park only where they have the right to and where they have paid the appropriate fee – and issue penalties where people flout the laws, rules and regulations.
"However, we know from community feedback that there are a number of people who believe that, once the evening comes, they can park however and wherever they like – such as on double yellow lines, at junctions, or in bus stops – and that is simply not the case.
"By extending the patrols in our towns into the evenings, we will tackle this irresponsible – and illegal – behaviour, ensure that we keep our streets safe and hazard-free for drivers and pedestrians alike, and keep the traffic moving.
"So, the key message is to only park where it's appropriate to do so, and you'll have nothing to worry about."
The new evening patrols will get underway from Monday 13 August 2018.
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Ski Resort Life
2019 Resorts Of The Year
Southern Rockies
Not Done Yet: Boyne Blows Spring Snow at Eastern Resorts
Snow guns are turned back on at Sugarloaf, Sunday River and Loon—because spring skiing should be a right, not a privilege.
SKI Mag’s East Coast staff needed to squeeze in a trip to Sugarloaf before the lifts close this spring. Running out of both time and snow, we were nervous, but thanks to an unprecedented initiative by Boyne Resorts’ three New England resorts, we’re in luck.
Michigan-based Boyne announced last week that it had turned the snow guns back on for a late-season burst that ensures good spring conditions at Sugarloaf, Sunday River and Loon Mountain. Good for them. (See the press release below.)
You bet we’re darn glad to hear it, and not just because it saves our trip this weekend. Early- and late-season skiing had become a lost indulgence in New England. The former late-season kings, Killington and Sugarbush, didn’t seem to care as much anymore. But the infusion of Midwestern snowmaking enthusiasm and know-how has given Right Coast skiers something to get excited about in recent years, as Boyne and another Midwestern company, Peak Resorts (Mount Snow, Attitash, Wildcat, Crotched) bring huge snow-gun arsenals to bear.
“You just can’t have Reggae Fest without skiing,” says Sugarloaf’s Ethan Austin, referring to the resort’s annual April bash. (April 13-14 this year.) Austin also reports that the Boyne resorts are scooping up late-season groups and individuals who have no other options as the East’s Winter That Never Was nears its end.
SundayRiver, Sugarloaf, and Loon Mountain Commit to Making More Snow
Decision coincides with early-season sale of 2012–2013 New England Passes
Newry, ME (March 26, 2012)—As most Eastern ski resorts are closing for the season in the wake of last week’s unprecedented heat, the three New England mountain resorts managed by Michigan-based Boyne Resorts are making more snow to carry the season into April.
Sunday River(Newry, ME), Loon Mountain(Lincoln, NH), Sugarloaf(Carrabassett Valley, ME) turned on the snow guns this morning as temperatures dipped into the 20s. This marks the latest snowmaking in history for all three resorts and snowmaking will continue throughout the week.
“We are committed to ensuring our guests are able to ski and snowboard well into late season and we have the infrastructure to handle it,” John McGregor, Senior Vice-President of Ski Operations at Boyne Resorts, says. “Our crews have proven their ability to work in marginal temperatures and deliver snow all season long. Right now, these three resorts are offering more open terrain than all the other resorts in New England combined.”
This snowmaking coincides with Boyne Resorts spring sale of the 2012–2013 New England Pass, an inclusive season pass that offers access to Sunday River, Sugarloaf, and Loon Mountain—a combined trail count of 345 trails and over 2,000 acres of skiable terrain. Prices start at $359 with the lowest rates available through April 30, and include an Easy Pay Plan with $50 down.
The resorts are concentrating snowmaking efforts on easier and intermediate trails to ensure groups scheduled to visit could choose among a large selection of terrain. All three New England Boyne resorts are accepting groups that were originally scheduled to visit other resorts, which are now closing early.
“We are committed to making snow and maintaining snow, and we are pleased to be able to offer terrain to these groups coming from other areas,” McGregor continues. “This past November, Sunday River and Loon were also able to accept athletes from other mountains that weren’t able to accommodate racing teams from the East Coast and Canada that required early season training.”
For more information about Sunday River, Sugarloaf, or Loon Mountain, please visitwww.sundayriver.com, www.sugarloaf.com, or www.loonmtn.com. Information about Boyne Resorts is located at www.boyneresorts.com.
About Loon Mountain - Loon Mountain is New England’s most-accessible mountain resort destination, offering 2,100 feet of vertical, 60 trails, 7 tree skiing areas, 7 terrain parks, superpipe and halfpipe. Located in Lincoln, NH, just two hours north of Boston and three miles from Exit 32 off Interstate 93, Loon was rated the most accessible mountain resort in the East by readers of SKI Magazine in October 2010.
About Sunday River - Located minutes from picturesque Bethel Village in Western Maine’s Mahoosuc Mountains, Sunday River is a four-season destination offering eight interconnected peaks covered in the most dependable snow in New England, two Grand Resort Hotels and in the warmer months, golf at the acclaimed Sunday River Golf Club. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter or go a step further, and become part of the family on our very own online Community.
About the Sugarloaf Resort – Located in Carrabassett Valley, ME, Sugarloaf is the largest ski area in the East, and is home to the only lift-serviced above treeline skiing and riding in the East and one of Golf Digest’s America’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses.
Loon Mountain, Sunday River and Sugarloaf are operated by Boyne Resorts, the largest family-owned four-season resort company in North America.
Mountain Culturespring skiingloon
Vermont East CoastMaine
Boyne USA Resorts Announces Coast-to-Coast Expansion
New England Pass
2016's Top Ranked Eastern Ski Resorts
No matter what you're looking for—from family diversions to scare-yourself-silly drops—you'll find the best Eastern ski resorts here.
Buried in the East
Blizzard Nemo gives Easterners a powder day to write home about.
It's On in the East: Deep Snow, and More Predicted
We caught up with Mad River Glen's Eric Friedman, one of the industry’s least bullshitty public relations guys, for his take on how good the skiing is. For fans of natural snow, now's the time.
Jordan Grand
Right on the slopes of Sunday River.
Ski Resorts That Are Still Open: 2015-16
Ski season isn’t over yet. Get some last minute turns in at these resorts.
Snow Reports App
We've got up-to-date weather information and snow reports, all in one place.
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The Secret Recipe to Ski Racing’s Best Self
By Connor W. Davis - Contributor
Under a cloudless March sky, the Ascutney Rope Tow purrs like a Bobcat as it whisks skiers up a quaint, Central Vermont hillside. Other rope tows may purr like housecats, but this one is different—wonderfully rugged—built with about a half-dozen telephone poles, about a half-dozen car rims, a large engine, and a rope so thick it could pull the weight of the world. It’s a beautiful recipe.
The thermometer reads about 50 degrees today—the warmest weather we’ve seen in many months. School is out for the afternoon and local kids are taking free laps at an astounding rate, each with their own style. There are straightliners, looking for speed and only speed. There are freestylers, leaping off every inconsistency in the soft, untamed snow. And there are racers, wiggling through the short-but-sweet courses with no timers.
Some kids successfully hang tight onto the tow, all the way to the top. Their thick gloves desperately grip the fast-moving rope, which shows no mercy or acknowledgement of age, size, or strength. Other kids are less successful and they’re comically dragged up on their backs, while peers cheer them on. The parents down bottom, meanwhile, are smiling, laughing, holding their babies who aren’t ready to ski—yet—and throwing tennis balls for their dogs, which nearly outnumber the humans.
“Good job, honey!” one mother hollers up the hill at her son as he grabs onto the rope for another ride. “Proud of you!”
The Tow at Vermont’s Ascutney mountain is the center of a grassrootsy mountain movement, which is the hub for ski racers and mountain lovers alike. Photo by Connor Davis
I remember skiing here when I was a kid—when Ascutney was a much different place. It was a “real” ski area then. Real lifts. Real lift tickets that cost real money. Real ski races with real expectations. But, between then and now, the place shut down, and with that came a lot of change. The town of Brownsville eventually found a way to purchase the ski area, which resulted in a humbler—and arguably better—situation that we see today. The Rope Tow carries on the torch, and judging from the looks on these kids’ faces, it’s more than enough to make them happy and get them excited about both skiing, and ski racing.
While ski-touring above the rope tow, I’m reminded of the mountain’s charming nuances that have slipped from my conscious over the years. That steep, wooden start ramp is still there, though tired looking. And those two old trees at the top of the first pitch stand a little bit taller and thicker than before, right in the middle of the trail. I remember how the course setters would attach an outside panel to one of the trees, which was probably not the safest idea, but a quintessential backwoods Vermont move, nonetheless.
By 5 p.m., it’s time for the Thursday Night Race. Most of the kids have gone home, but a new batch of locals have arrived with beers and sharp skis, ready to go fast under the lights. Local volunteers drill a paneled slalom as the sun sets and the snow hardens into Au natural World Cup conditions. I watch the first couple of racers go down with times hovering in the 16-second range and quickly realize that, while this race is regarded as casual, it’s also an all-out sprint.
I do my best on run one—zipping through the red and blue, just like the old days—but come up a little short. The local favorite, Bobby Farrell, whose mother is a humble mastermind behind Ascutney’s reimagination, lends me his old Salomon race skis in hopes of a faster second run. I grip onto the rope again, skate to the start, push out of the gate, wiggle through the course again, and ski across the finish. I’m a little faster this time and remember how fun ski racing is, seven long years after my frustrated retirement.
The grill is fired up for the post-race party at Ascutney. Photo by Connor Davis
“Nice one!” says Bobby, as I click out of of his loaners and crack open a freezing-cold beer that I had stashed in the snow. He’s encouraging each racer that comes through the finish, not just me. And despite the fact that he’s a former NCAA all-star who’s raced with the best of the best on the toughest of mountains, you can tell he’s happier right here than anywhere. This is home.
By now, the sun is down, the race is nearing its end, and it’s time for dinner. Everyone gathers at the lodge and enjoys a pot luck meal together like one big family. I take a moment to look around and appreciate what a special experience this has been. The weather. The mountain. The kids. The parents. The dogs. The racers. The Tow.
It’s a beautiful recipe.
Article Tags: Opinion, Premium Picks, Top Rotator
Connor W. Davis
- Connor W. Davis is a freelance writer from the Green Mountain State with a deep passion for all things skiing. From racing at Stratton Mountain School in Vermont to serving as Online Editor at FREESKIER Magazine in Colorado, his days spent on snow have profoundly shaped his life. Find more of his work at ConnorWDavis.com.
Looking Back to Race Ahead
By Julie Glusker
As the season comes to a close, it is a good time to reflect, reset and get ready to approach the future with a fresh outlook.
Radamus and Hurt Named Ski Racing Media Juniors of the Year
By Sean Higgins and Mackenzie Moran
Now in its 44th year, Ski Racing Media's Junior of the Year Award is still going strong.
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48,813 total votes
American Beauty is a 1999 American drama film, directed by Sam Mendes and written by Alan Ball. Kevin Spacey stars as Lester Burnham, an office worker who has a midlife crisis when he becomes infatuated with his teenage daughter's best friend, Angela. Annette Bening co-stars as Lester's materialistic wife, Carolyn, and Thora Birch plays their insecure daughter, Jane. Wes Bentley, Chris Cooper and Allison Janney also feature. The film has been described by academics as a satire of American middle class notions of beauty and personal satisfaction; analysis has focused on the film's explorations of romantic and paternal love, sexuality, beauty, materialism, self-liberation, and ... more on Wikipedia
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Ravish, Jesus, Rock, Christian, Emo
Beware The Darkness
Forced Upon
Beyond the Christmas Dream
Click here to edit title
The album, which is the 2nd album for Ravish was originally called Renavatio, which means to renew. Ravish decided to call the album
Back from the dead giving it a darker theme although the meaning stays the same. The album is not about death but about life, until we come to God we are dead in our sins.
Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. Order your copy now
Back from the Dead released 2012. Shortly after the release of Forced Upon RAVISH signed with Tate Music Group to record their 2nd album which was recorded in Mustang, Oklahoma at TMG studio there. The album's theme a bit darker and heavier. though not as thearical than the first. RAVISH practiced heavily over the summer and in October 2012 flew to Oklahoma and the album was recorded in three days.
Order your copy now
The first song
Hell aint cool, which was originally going to be part of Ravish's first album, was not quite ready.
The song was able to broaden this albums message.
Back from the Dead!
Revelation 20:12-15 KJV
12 And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.
13 And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works.
14 And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death.
15 And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.
There are those that question why we talk about Hell and death. Jesus spoke more about Hell than he did about Heaven. There are great rewards for those that come to Christ, but most people will not be going that way, most people will be going to Hell. We warn our children about staying out of the streets, we warn them about strangers, we warn them about drugs and alcohol, we even warn them about the opposite sex, but when it comes to Hell, it's locked up it's shut behind a door, most Christians sweep the thought under the rug and go about there business. We all want to talk about the glory of Heaven, but we need to know about the destruction of a place we know as Hell. I've seen greater conversion from people that know their actions will put them in a place of torment, than those that know that Jesus loves them and desperately wants to save them from this fate. People don't get it, the world thinks God is condemning them to Hell, but the reality is our sins condemn us to Hell. Jesus died to save us from this horrid place, only be coming to him, repenting of your sins, washing your sins away in the pools of baptism in his name and receiving his Spirit can you escape this place. I think it's sad that people don't take Hell more serious-Ric Iron
Acts 2:37-39 KJV
37 Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do?
38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
39 For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.
John 7:38-39 NJV
38 He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.
39 (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)
Don't be be deceived, Don't be a fool You ought to know Hell Aint Cool
Loved this, wanted band on front but lineup changes made it impossible.
Alternate cover option
Alternative cover, almost went with this.
Idea for cover we gave to record company.
sketch of possible cover
alternate sketch
John 3:16-21 KJV
16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
18 He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
19 And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.
20 For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.
21 But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.
https://youtu.be/S_q-pKcNHXI
The album contains 8 Original songs.
Hell Aint Cool
Hit and Run Rendezvous
I Will Yet Rock
Nice Guys Finish Last
A Rock And Roll Sensation
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Chris Uphues
Chuck Webster
Tom Spleth
Tatiana Simonova
Jenny Schmid
Sara Sanders
Aminah Robinson
Gregory Page
Thom O'Connor
John L. Moore
Martin Mazorra
José Antonio Suárez Londoño
Karen Kunc
Michael Krueger
Tom Huck
Mike Houston
Barbara Foster
Joseph Hart
Bill Fick
Bruce Davenport Jr.
Cannonball Press
Chakaia Booker
Willie Birch
Kreh Mellick
Todd Anderson
Glen Baldridge
Eddie Martinez
Xenobia Bailey
Kenny Rivero
Michael Kelly Williams
Seung-Min Lee
Renee Cox
Glendayls Medina
Illegal Alien’s Guide to Political Economy, 2009
Artist Book: 24 pages of hand drawn lithographs, 3 colors
9 x 6 x .25 inches
Printers: Phil Sanders, Tina Maidhof, Chris Dunnet
Illegal Alien’s Guide to Political Economy presents images inspired by the recent economic collapse, tracing catastrophe from the real estate market, to the oil exchange, to the debate within Washington. Chagoya addresses how an international predicament has a dizzying affect on the life of the individual while satirizing not only a moment of crisis, but also the flood of discussion among politicians, pundits, and ‘experts’ alike.
Enrique Chagoya was born in 1953 in Mexico City, Mexico and holds degrees from University of California, Berkeley, San Francisco Art Institute and Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México. Chagoya studied economics in Mexico and was forced to leave following his participation in a series of political demonstrations against the Mexican government. Chagoya’s work often deals with political and economic themes in contrast to the contemporary art market. Chagoya is a Professor of Fine Art of printmaking, drawing, and painting at Stanford University, CA. His work can be found in the following collections: Whitney Museum of American Art, New York, NY, Museum of Modern Art, New York, NY, Centro Cultural de Arte Contemporaneo, Mexico City, Mexico, Library of Congress Print Collection, Washington, D.C., Los Angeles County Museum of Art, Los Angeles, CA and San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, San Francisco, CA.
To inquire, email: rbpmw@efanyc.org
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News as it Happens
Published on May 10, 2018 @ 5:14pm
Courtesy of Al Kershner
Taste of Hamburg-er Festival 2015
Courtesy of Jose Gonzalez
A canvas print of one of my paintings is being displayed at the Bloem & Tuin (Flower and Garden) Expo in Nuenen, Netherlands which is celebrating 125 years of Van Gogh with a Pop-up Museum. This print is a replica of Vincent van Gogh's Stil Life: Vase with 5 Sunflowers. The original painting was destroyed in an American air bombing raid in Japan in 1945. All artwork, which were donated for this cause, will be sold at auction to raise money for a future Van Gogh tribute.
Courtesy of Kurt Bellman
Rep. Thomas R. Caltagirone takes the oath of office for the 20th time representing part of the City of Reading and environs. Other Representatives appear at left.
Rep. Thomas R. Caltagirone, (D-127th), takes the oath of office for the 20th time representing part of the City of Reading and environs.
Courtesy of Tony Miccicke
Barn fire in Exeter Township
Courtesy of Kristin Schadler
Hot air balloon makes an emergency landing on Ridge Drive in Douglassville, PA around 4:30 Monday night on Nov. 4, 2013.
Courtesy of Service Master
We are ServiceMASTER....To show our dedication to our community, we have been helping Habitat for Humanity. Donating our time on the weekends to rebuild homes, restore lives, reestablish our city. Here is a peak at our crews that have been involved. Photo taken May 29, 2013
Courtesy of Kristi Wagner
House along Rt. 61 near Mohrsville Road July 6, 2013. Per my conversation with fire personnel, vehicle drove up embankment and struck 2nd floor of house before landing on its roof on highway below. Accident took place around midnight. Photo is of house being boarded up after incident.
A morning fire in St. Lawrence.
Support local journalism
"Our liberty depends on the freedom of the press, and that cannot be limited without being lost." – Thomas Jefferson
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Advertiser signup
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REBLL is in the performance marketing business and serves as an intermediary between affiliates and advertisers. As a result of REBLL only being an intermediary, it does not control the actions of affiliates and advertisers. REBLL does not control and is not responsible or liable for content hosted on and/or operated by third party websites and cannot remove content from such websites.
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By sending a Notice to Intermediary, the person sending the Notice agrees to the terms and conditions of this notice and takedown procedure.
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Once the Notice contains all required information, the Intermediary shall commence the takedown procedure.
The Intermediary shall first preliminary determine whether the Notice regards a website which is owned, controlled and/or operated by a Client.
In case the Notice regards a website that is owned, controlled and/or operated by a Client, Intermediary shall try to determine whether the relevant content is still available on that website.
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In case the relevant website is owned and/or controlled by a Client and the content is still available on that website, Intermediary shall preliminary determine whether the content indeed qualifies as Third Party Infringing Material. Intermediary shall in any event (i) inform the Client of the Notice, (ii) inform the Client whether Intermediary on a preliminary basis considers the relevant content to be Third Party Infringing Material, (iii) if so, request the Client to take adequate measures and suggest what such measures should be (e.g. remove or block such content) and (iv) request the Client to report back to Intermediary on the measures so taken within 24 hours.
If the measures so taken by the Client or the response from the Client are insufficient in the opinion of Intermediary, Intermediary shall request the Client to take further adequate measures and suggests what such measures should be.
In urgent cases, Intermediary aims to complete the procedure described in Articles 3.1 to 3.5 within two business days. In other cases, Intermediary aims to complete the procedure described in Articles 3.1 to 3.5 within ten business days. Timing of this procedure is also dependent on how quick a Client responds to a Notice and therefore Intermediary cannot guarantee that the estimated response time can be fulfilled.
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The person sending the Notice and Intermediary irrevocably agree that the courts of Amsterdam have exclusive jurisdiction to settle any disputes or claim arising out of or in connection with the Notice (including non-contractual disputes and claims and including the alleged Third Party Infringing Material).
Terms and Conditions | Code of Conduct |Privacy Policy
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Christmas Carol Concert
Faculty and Staff Experts
Spelman In The News
U.S. Senator Kamala Harris Speaks at Spelman
Home › About Us › News & Events › Our Stories
Frances Neal Presents Findings on Heat and Pregnancy During National Conference
Spelman health science major Frances K. Neal, C’2019, recently shared her research findings on heat waves and pregnancy outcomes during the 2018 American Geophysical Union conference.
Focused on the organization and dissemination of scientific information in the interdisciplinary and international field of geophysics, AGU’s conference attracts more than 70,000 people worldwide.
“There are many external factors that can negatively impact pregnancy outcome,” said Neal. “With Atlanta’s extreme temperatures during the summer months, I am looking to see if there is a relationship between Atlanta’s hot summers and pregnancy outcomes, such as low birth weight (less than 2,500 grams) or preterm birth (an infant born earlier than 37 weeks gestation).”
Neal strongly encourages fellow students to attend professional conferences. “They are a great way to network,” she said. “I believe the exposure gained during AGU will make me a better candidate for graduate school programs.”
We want to hear from you. Briefly tell us about your Spelman achievements. If more information is needed, we will contact you.
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[Go to Previous] [Go to Next]
Sounding Controls
For 3D derived gridded data, one of the Fields you can select is Sounding Data (Temperature & dewpoint only or with true winds). In the Displays panel of the Layer Controls tab, there is a category for soundings. The three sounding display options are Grid Skew-T, Grid Stuve Display, and Grid Emagram Display. This display uses the model data to produce soundings, and their controls are similar to those for Point Data sounding display controls. You can modify the location of the sounding in the Main Display window by dragging the selector point to a different position on the map.
The example below is loaded from the 'Sounding Data (with true winds)' field. If you select 'Sounding Data (Temperature & dewpoint only)', then wind data will not be included in the display. Therefore, there will be no barbs along the side of the sounding in the Sounding Chart tab, the Hodograph tab will not be available, and there will be no wind information listed in the Table tab. For more information on what wind speeds correspond to each of the wind barbs in McIDAS-V displays, please see the table in the FAQ.
The Sounding Chart tab includes an aerological diagram (e.g., skew-T, Stuve, Emagram):
Image 1: Sounding Display of Model Data
Time Animation Control - Controls the looping of displays through time. See Time Animation Control for more information. This will be available if you select more than one time to display in the Field Selector.
Dry Adiabats - Displays the dry adiabats on the Skew-T diagram.
Saturation Adiabats - Displays the saturation adiabats on the Skew-T diagram.
Mixing Ratio - Displays the mixing ratio lines on the Skew-T diagram.
Parcel Path - Displays the path of a parcel of air lifted pseudo-adiabatically from the initial point to the top of the Skew-T diagram.
Virtual Temperature - Displays the virtual temperatures of the environmental profile and pseudo-adiabatically lifted air-parcel.
Grid Points - Plots grid points in the Main Display window. The grid point spacing will be related to the model resolution that you selected in the Data Sources tab of the Data Explorer.
Parcel mode - Specifies how the initial conditions of the pseudo-adiabatically lifted air-parcel are determined from the environmental sounding according to the mode indicated. This will affect how the LNB, LFC, LCL, CAPE, and CIN are calculated. The choices are:
Bottom of Sounding - Determines the initial conditions of the parcel from the temperature and dewpoint at the level of highest pressure. The path will update whenever the profiles change.
Below Cursor - Determines the initial conditions of the parcel from the temperature and dewpoint profiles by computing the pressure-weighted mean potential temperature and water vapor mixing-ratio of the atmosphere that lies below the cursor when the middle mouse button is pressed. Thus, pressing the middle button at 950 hPa for a sounding that starts at 1000 hPa will effectively mix the lower 50 hPa of the atmosphere and lift the resulting parcel starting at 975 hPa. The path will update whenever the profiles change and as the cursor is dragged.
At Cursor Pressure - Determines the initial pressure, in-situ temperature, and moisture content of the parcel from the temperature and dewpoint profiles at the pressure of the cursor when the middle mouse button is pressed. The initial moisture content is determined from the dewpoint profile at the initial pressure. The path will update whenever the profiles change and as the cursor is dragged.
At Cursor (Press, Temp) - The computed path of a lifted parcel is automatically updated when appropriate. The initial pressure and in-situ temperature of the parcel equal the pressure and temperature values under the cursor when the middle mouse button is pressed. The path will update whenever the profiles change and as the cursor is dragged.
Wind spacing - Allows the user to control which wind levels are shown in the display.
Consecutive Profiles - Allows you to plot both the current sounding, as well as the sounding of the next time step in one image. The temperature and dewpoint temperature profiles of the current timestep will be dashed, and the profiles of the next timestep will be displayed as solid lines. The current time's winds will be displayed directly to the right of the sounding, and the next timestep's winds will be shown to the right of that. This makes it easy to see how a profile will change through time. This will reduce the number of time steps in your loop by 1. This option will not make any changes to the display if you only have one timestep displayed.
A label above the sounding's chart shows the model, date, and time of the data. You can modify the individual T and Td profiles on the skew T by clicking and dragging the profile lines. You will see changes in the parameter table to the left of the Skew-T that reflect modifications made to the sounding.
The Hodograph tab shows a 3D hodograph display. Note that this tab is only included with the display if you select a Field that includes wind data:
Image 2: Hodograph Display of Model Data
The hodograph is enabled if the plotted data includes wind fields. It can be rotated into 3D by right-clicking and dragging. You can zoom in/out by holding down Shift and right-clicking and dragging up/down or by using the scroll wheel on your mouse. To reset the hodograph, use Ctrl+R.
The Table tab shows a table of all available values in the sounding. You can invert the order of the table by double clicking on the name of a column (ex. AirPressure).:
Image 3: Table Display of Model Data
Show U and V - Breaks the Speed and Direction categories up into the individual U (east-west) and V (north-south) components of the wind. This option will only be available if you choose a sounding display with true winds.
Aerological Parameters
The table to the left of the sounding diagram contains aerological parameters determined from the atmospheric sounding displayed in the diagram. The following abbreviations are used:
LCL: Lifting Condensation Level - The level at which a pseudo-adiabatically lifted air-parcel becomes saturated with water vapor.
LFC: Level of Free Convection - The level at which the virtual temperature of a pseudo-adiabatically lifted air-parcel changes from being less than the environment's virtual temperature to being greater than the environment's virtual temperature.
LNB: Level of Neutral Buoyancy - The level above the LFC at which the virtual temperature of a pseudo-adiabatically lifted air-parcel equals the environment's virtual temperature.
CAPE: Convective Available Potential Energy - The area between the virtual temperature trace of the pseudo-adiabatically lifted air-parcel and the virtual temperature trace of the environment from the LFC to the LNB in which the parcel's virtual temperature is greater than the environment's (positive CAPE connotes convective development).
CIN: Convective Inhibition - The negative of the area between the virtual temperature trace of the pseudo-adiabatically lifted air-parcel and the virtual temperature trace of the environment from the parcel's initial conditions to the LFC in which the parcel's virtual temperature is less than the environment's (negative CIN connotes initial positive work to lift the parcel).
Many of the menu items seen utilizing this display are standard options that can be found in the Menus section of the Layer Controls page. However, there is one option that is unique to this display.
The File menu has this unique option:
Export Sounding Table to File... - Exports the data in the Table tab. This can be saved in Comma-Separated Values (CSV) format (*.csv) or in Excel format.
The Edit menu has these unique options:
Reset Probe Position - Moves the probe in the Main Display window back to its initial location before it was moved.
Reset Sounding - Reverts the sounding back to its initial configuration after any modifications have been made to it.
Selector Color - Changes the color of the shape representing the location of the sounding in the Main Display window.
The View menu has these unique options:
Sounding Chart - Allows you to capture an image or movie of the sounding and change many aesthetic preferences.
Hodograph - Allows you to capture an image or movie of the hodograph and change aesthetic preferences related to the Main Display window.
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What is Stem Cell Therapy
Treatment Areas of Stem Cell Therapy
Treatment with adipose Stem Cell Therapy
Enlarged Stem Cell Therapy
Science of Stem Cell Therapy
Questions about Stem Cell Therapy
What are Stem Cells
Effect of Stem Cells
History of Stem Cells
Therapy & Treatment
Cell Renewal
Immunity Modulation
Dr. med. Rembeck
PD Dr. med. Rothörl
Dr. med. Attenberger
Immunity Modulation: Strengthening the Body’s Defenses
Strengthening Body’s Defenses
The immune system is a defining factor for health and vitality. It protects us from detrimental influences day for day, 24/7, and consistently functions at peak levels to keep pathogens and toxins at bay. Physical strain caused by illness and/or the effects of a modern lifestyle such as stress, environmental influences, poor nutrition, lack of exercise, and other factors can weaken the immune system and make us susceptible to illness and diseases or disorders. Targeted immunity modulation helps to strengthen the immune system, enabling it to successfully combat detrimental influences.
The experts for Vital- and Regenerative Medicine, Diagnostics and Preventative Medicine at the Center for Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Therapy help bodily functions by strengthening the body’s own defense mechanisms with individual detox therapies, designed for the purposes of immunity modulation. Targeted therapy leads to the release of new vitality, enabling the body to successfully combat pathogens and detrimental influences, resulting in renewed energy and quality of life.
Immunity Modulation: Treatment and Beneficial Effects
Highly effective ingredients strengthen the immune system‘s activity and performance. Possible infectious and/or rheumatic processes are reduced and the protective effects of intestinal flora and the mucous membranes are improved, while the amount of white blood cells is optimized. The spleen, the body’s most important blood filter, and other organs responsible for the immune system activity are strengthened and revitalized. Each essential part of the immune system is reinforced anew, enabling it to play its optimal part in protecting the organism as a whole.
Rise in anti-inflammatory mechanisms
Strengthened metabolism
Strengthened anti-rheumatic processes
Regeneration of intestinal flora
Increase of mucous membranes
Increased anti-oxidants
Optimization of cellular blood components
Spleen and other important organs are strengthened
Marvelous Immune System: Complex Defenses against Health Burdens
The immune system is a complex interplay of numerous components which are interdependent and mutually dependent. Only when all elements, among others blood, intestinal flora, mucous membranes, bone marrow and the spleen are fully functional is it possible for the immune system to provide strong defenses and to successfully combat detrimental influences. However, these detrimental influences lay outside the scope of commonly recognized viral or bacterial pathogens.
One example is allergies, which are a misguided overreaction of the immune system to normally harmless substance such as pollen, certain foods or nickel. Often, individual allergies may demonstrate synergetic effects and can result in new forms of hypersensitivity or intolerance. In addition, autoimmune disorders, metabolic disorders, or lifestyle factors can result in disorders of the immune system. As this root causes are not always apparent at first glance, immunity modulation requires extensive finesse, experience and proficiency.
The experts for Vital- and Regenerative Medicine, Diagnostics and Preventative Medicine at the Center for Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Therapy are specialized in diverse forms of immunity modulation and create a personalized, made-to-measure therapy concept and plan for each individual patient.
Immunity Modulation Complementation and Optimization
The effects of the immunity modulation treatment are optimized through additional, highly effective therapy focused on regeneration and rejuvenation. Our experts for Vital- and Regenerative Medicine, Diagnostics and Preventative Medicine create an individually-tailored course of treatment taken from our further focal areas including stem cell therapy, medical-detox and cell rejuvenation. A final status report, including personal care recommendations, rounds out the lasting and sustainable effects of this treatment, leading to improved health, energy levels and quality of life.
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Footer Widget Area Two
At Armona Medical Alpinresort
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6335 Thiersee/Tyrol
Phone: +43 (5376) 2140 0290
Mail: info@stemcells-tyrol.at
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Partly cloudy skies. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low near 60F. Winds NW at 5 to 10 mph..
Partly cloudy skies. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low near 60F. Winds NW at 5 to 10 mph.
Andrey Burmakin/www.123rf.com
Gering woman accused of taking more than $70,000 in funds from grandmother
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A 43-year-old Gering woman is accused of using funds she had access to as a power of attorney to write more than $70,000 in personal checks and for the purchase of a vehicle.
Melody Marsh has been charged with abuse of a vulnerable adult, a Class IIIA felony. Marsh was arraigned on charges on June 14 after being cited on the charge and is next scheduled to appear in Scotts Bluff County Court for a preliminary hearing on July 9.
According to a search warrant affidavit filed in Scotts Bluff County Court, a Gering Police investigator began an investigation in October 2018 after being notified by an adult protective services caseworker with the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services. The caseworker was able to provide financial documents from US Bank for a 94-year-old woman.
According to the records, which covered a period of time from December 2017 through July 2018, Marsh had allegedly issued more than $70,750 in personal checks to herself and others, including family members, on the woman’s account. The woman was identified as Marsh’s grandmother and Marsh had power of attorney over the woman’s medical and financial affairs. Most of the funds in the account were derived from the sale of the home of Marsh’s grandmother.
Records from the Department of Motor Vehicles showed that Marsh had purchased a 2005 Ford F350 pickup in April 2018. On the same day, she allegedly withdrew $17,500 from her grandmother’s savings account and wrote a cashier’s check to purchase the vehicle.
The investigator also observed more than $51,000 in additional debits from Marsh’s grandmother’s account for purchases at online companies and local businesses.
On Nov. 3, the investigator received a complaint from another bank, First National Bank, who notified authorities that large amounts of funds were being paid out of an account belonging to Marsh’s grandmother that did not involve care or benefit of the woman. The bank employee estimated that more than $20,800 had been spent at a lingerie retailer, for game tickets to Husker games, motel rooms and bills that were not the grandmother’s. The bank had put a hold on the woman’s account and required permission for all expenditures from the account.
Police also found that Marsh had allegedly put utility services to her home in her grandmother’s name, though the grandmother did not live at the home.
Police attempted to interview Marsh, who canceled the interview.
Personal Check
Public encouraged to help ‘Stuff the Bus’
Scottsbluff council votes to eliminate portion of pathway
'We have to get the lifeblood back into the valley': Canal breach forces irrigation cutoff for Gering-Ft. Laramie Irrigation District
Police continue to follow tips as Wyoming man Chance Englebert remains missing
Dohse Senior Ins. Leland Dohse -Going on Medicare or leaving
Ferguson Agency, Inc. We offer the best rates on all
Nemnich Automotive Automotive Repair, Storage & Performance modifications 308-631-5551
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HomeProjectseasyhome lize new retail experience mall renovation
easyhome lize new retail experience mall renovation
Easyhome
Concept design, Preliminary and detailed design, Construction site supervision
Partner: Stefano Boeri, Yibo Xu
Project Leader: Pietro Chiodi
Architects: Vincenzo Vella, Francesca Motta, Yinxin Bao, Yitao Huang
Design Team: Zhiyang Huang, Wenhai Zhu
Structure Consulant: Weisheng Rong
Construction Team: Zhong Jian Ding Sheng (Beijing) Architectural Decoration Engineering Co.,Ltd
Completed on 30th December 2017, the new façade of Easyhome Lize New Retail Experience Mall in Beijing epitomises the “Renovation” strategy Stefano Boeri Architetti has specially conceived and developed for China, encompassing an extensive technological and expressive upgrade program of Chinese architectural modernity. In this specific case, the facade of the building, located on the West Third Ring Road and devoted to “Made in Italy” interior design has been converted into a refined interface at various levels: not only between the inside and the outside but, ideally, between China and Italy, that is to say between the local context and the imaginary, here evoked by the Italian style, in its latest figuration.
The whole facade is thus cladded with large white rectangular GRC panels (a composite material comprising the characteristics of compressive strength of the concrete matrix with the tensile strength of the glass fibers) and treated with a score of full height vertical elements, scanning a musical rhythm along its whole perimeter. The impact of the compositional solution which, at first sight, may look monumental, recalling the language and brightness of early Italian Rationalism, on closer inspection, proves to be an effective way to break up the huge unitary mass of the complex, making it so look more domestic and familiar. The insertion of a series of elements as variations on the theme – a curvature at a corner, a lean off-set portal, the dark glass reflecting surfaces, … – amplifies the figurative harmony and reminds the difference and complexity distinguishing marks featuring a genuine part of the city capable to relate to a multiplicity of lifestyles revolving around it.
Of course, the variability illustrated above also reflects the functional structure of the differently oriented facades, conceived as “tridimensional surfaces”. The east side, intended to accomodate most of the visitors, in particular the ones coming from the main entrance, has been designed through four compositional variations, identifying as many different visual patterns. The permeability of the access system contributes to generating a flexible internal space developed so as to act as public catalyst for the city’s commercial and social activities.
Different is the way the north facade, facing the residential area, has been treated. Here the design stems from an in-depth analysis of sunlight impact and of all visual relations with the surroundings. In fact, the extensive use of white GRC reduces the impact of the building’s shadow, reflecting daylight.
The west facade faces an urban area less dense than the other sides. In this case, the design choice steered towards a prevalent use of glass, so as to maximize the passage of natural light and thus reduce the building’s dependence on artificial lighting. At the same time, the large transparent surface allows the surrounding open landscape to “enter” the built body, enriching the breath and the atmosphere indoors. The design of the south facade took shape with the aim to establish a fluid link with the communities of the districts nearby, and optimize as much as possible the exchanges with the city.
The attention to the numerous levels of complexity of the contemporary city, which is the hallmark of Stefano Boeri Architetti’s work and practice, thus condenses into the Easyhome Lize New Retail Experience Mall’s architectural project, into an articulated “interface renovation”, in the spirit of a novel neomodernity, in between two cultures.
floornature
stefano boeri, two renovation projects in beijing
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(Illustration: Tablet Magazine)
Happiness, Happiness You Shall Pursue
A recent ‘New York Times’ essay delivers a crucial reminder from the Founding Fathers about identity politics
By Liel Leibovitz
December 5, 2018 • 12:00 AM
Last week, the essayist Andrea Long Chu wrote a powerful piece in The New York Times. Here’s how it began:
Next Thursday, I will get a vagina. The procedure will last around six hours, and I will be in recovery for at least three months. Until the day I die, my body will regard the vagina as a wound; as a result, it will require regular, painful attention to maintain. This is what I want, but there is no guarantee it will make me happier. In fact, I don’t expect it to. That shouldn’t disqualify me from getting it.
Happiness, elusive as it is, remains the radical principle around which Chu organizes her argument. Even the Hippocratic oath, she believes, is at fault, because when doctors vow to do no harm, they place their own judgment over the patient’s. “Nonmaleficence,” she writes, “is a principle violated in its very observation. Its true purpose is not to shield patients from injury but to install the medical professional as a little king of someone else’s body.” And this, Chu concludes, must stop: “Surgery’s only prerequisite,” she claims, “should be a simple demonstration of want.” Nothing, in other words, should ever trump the patient’s shot at happiness.
It’s a proposition that should resonate with anyone committed to America’s foundational principles, and one that is not a bit dimmed by Chu’s own admission that her happiness may prove elusive. It’s the pursuit the Declaration of Independence guarantees us, not happiness itself, and if that pursuit means a painful surgery, or female hormone treatments, or any other medical decision a person chooses to make about her or his body, let it be. Americans are guaranteed the right to change their sex, or their appearance, or their religion, or any other thing about themselves, as fundamental as it may seem to others, that strikes them as somehow incongruent to their authentic experience, the emotional resonance of their own happiness.
But here’s the tricky part: We’re all in pursuit of happiness, and each person’s pursuit is different. Anyone has the right to undergo gender reassignment surgery, but no one has the right to insist that their friends and neighbors now call them Mark instead of Mary. Accepting a transgender person’s chosen name is the decent thing to do—a request I and many others are only happy to oblige—but it’s not and should never be mandatory. If it doesn’t make you happy, you’re entirely at liberty, simply by virtue of being an American, to refuse to listen when the conversation turns to matters you find disagreeable. You’re just as free to tell your fellow Americans that you find their beliefs ridiculous, even—or especially—beliefs that are deeply personal, emotional, and raw like those concerning one’s true gender identity. Of course, if you choose to be rude, your fellow Americans, transgender and otherwise, are utterly free to point out that you’re being a world-class jerk, and just as free to choose not to welcome you into their midst.
This sounds commonsensical enough, but a flurry of recent cases prove that it’s anything but. Last month, Twitter permanently banned the feminist writer Meghan Murphy for pointing out on the social network that “men aren’t women.” In October, a British transgender lawyer named Stephanie Hayden filed a lawsuit against comedy writer Graham Linehan after he referred to her using her male birth name. And in 2016, British Columbia’s Federation of Labour blacklisted Canada’s longest serving rape crisis center after the NGO refused to admit a transgender woman as a volunteer, arguing that they didn’t allow men into the group and that they expected their volunteers to be women who’d experienced gender-based discrimination from birth.
If you expect the champions of liberalism to rush to the defense of that most gleaming of all liberal ideals—that we’re all free to chart our own individual course to bliss—I’ve some disappointing news. On the left these days, the loudest and most prominent voices are singing out for more censure. Writing in The New York Times, Parker Molloy, a transgender woman and an editor at Media Matters for America—a prominent progressive think tank supported by several senior figures in Democratic politics—argued that Twitter’s decision to ban any user who referred to transgender people by their birth name would boost, not hurt, free speech. Why? Because failing to call transgender people by their chosen names hurt their feelings and makes them feel disinclined to partake in conversation, so if it’s conversation you want you ought first to police everyone’s speech. Twitter’s draconian policy, Molloy wrote without a trace of irony, “gives us the framework we need to reset our thinking.” And resetting people’s thoughts, of course, was precisely what the Founders always had in mind.
Taking things even further, ProPublica, the Pulitzer Prize-winning nonprofit news organization, ran a story earlier this fall claiming that by “deadnaming”—or using a person’s birth name rather than his or her chosen name after gender transition—law enforcement officials were failing to protect transgender people. “’Deadnaming’ Trans Women Isn’t Just Insulting,” read the story’s headline, “It Subverts Justice.”
But justice, really, is a concept for which the Founding Fathers, with the dew of the Enlightenment still glistening in their hair, had very little use. Justice, they understood, was an inherently subjective concept, which meant that one person’s idea of justice is bound sooner or later to clash with another’s; the only way to resolve the conflict that ensued was to invite the state to exercise its coercion, a goal best achieved, naturally, by the establishment of a state-sanctioned religion. Which, of course, was the one thing they were eager to avoid. Instead of justice, then, they promised us the ability to pursue something even more transcendent, happiness, and secured for us our inalienable rights, the mechanism through which said pursuit could proceed. It was a truly revolutionary new compact, and one, in case we need a reminder, that has done much good service to America’s minorities, Jews included.
If we want to preserve it—that is, if we want to continue to be Americans in any intellectually, emotionally, historically, and morally meaningful sense of the word—we have to defend this sacred compact with all our might. The challenge we face has very little to do with hormonal injections or surgically constructed vaginas, and everything to do with the use of coercive power—of the state, of the media, of the culture—to target people whose ideas differ from our own. And no matter how loudly the self-styled radicals cheer, coercive power has never and never will guarantee anyone life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. If we want to continue and hear that American chorus—in which, as the poet once put it, each is “singing what belongs to him or her and to none else”—it’s time we raised our voices.
Like this article? Sign up for our Daily Digest to get Tablet magazine’s new content in your inbox each morning.
Liel Leibovitz is a senior writer for Tablet Magazine and a host of the Unorthodox podcast.
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transgender issues
‘Prairie Fire’ Memories
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Levy, Robert
Buckley, Robert
Seven promotions at Kuits
Kuits Celebrates 110th Anniversary
Manchester Evening News Features Kuits 110th Anniversary
Triple lawyer shortlisting for Kuits at Made in Manchester Awards
Kuits Managing Partner shortlisted at Modern Law Awards
Brexit: Supreme Court rules UK Parliament must vote on triggering Article 50
Impact of Brexit – Designs
Kuit Steinart Levy LLP
kuits.com
3 St Mary's Parsonage
England, M3 2RD
For assistance, please contact this firm's main contacts.
Kuits is a leading, UK200-listed commercial law firm based in the heart of Manchester city centre.
We provide trusted legal and commercial advice to businesses, their owners and high-net-worth individuals, promoting the growth and success of the North West.
Ranked highly in both Chambers UK and Legal 500, clients consider us ‘quick to respond’, ‘diligent’ and ‘thorough and educated’ in our responses.
Our approach is to work closely with our clients to understand their needs and objectives, and in doing so provide the best advice.
Our aim is to build relationships and, ultimately, to become our clients' trusted advisors. As such, all of our clients have access to senior people, who will use their knowledge and experience to develop innovative solutions to your complex legal and commercial problems.
Our dedication to technical excellence and client service is frequently recognised by industry experts and the UK business community. As such, Kuits was crowned Best Professional Services Firm at the North West Business Masters 2017 and Best Law Firm at the Talk of Manchester Awards 2016, while its Private Client team were Highly Commended at the Manchester Legal Awards 2017.
We have particular expertise in advising SMEs, financial institutions, real estate investors and PLCs, as well as businesses in the healthcare, leisure, fashion, sport and charities sectors. We also have niche expertise in serious tax investigations, mediation and family business succession planning.
Proud to be a member of TAGLaw, as a firm we are keen to develop strong relationships with member firms and to play an active role in enhancing the profile of the network both internally and externally for the benefit of all members.
More information about the firm, including our history and CSR can be found at www.kuits.com
"A Client Saver" - Robert Levy TAGLaw Testimonial from TAGLaw TIAG on Vimeo.
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Assumption, IL Financial Assistance
Food Pantries
Homeless Shelters
Free Clothing
Suntopia.org no longer provides information about payday loans in IL. Clicking the Payday Loan link takes you to another website with more complete information.
Assumption, IL Utility & Rental Assistance
When you need money to pay your rent, utility bills or get through a difficult time, there are 19 utility payment and rental assistance programs in the Assumption, Illinois area.
Locate Services In Another Area
Wait, Please Stop For A Moment.
Obviously, you're looking for rent and/or utility assistance, but there's something else here that could help you.
Millions of people qualify for Social Security benefits, and don't collect them, because they haven't tried.
You Do Not Have To Be Of Retirement Age To Collect Social Security.
It's easier to qualify for social security benefits than it is to fill out all the paperwork and figure out the process of how to obtain them. That's where these guys can help.
So please, continue looking for rent and/or utility assistance, and I hope you find what you need on this website. But don't leave without clicking this link and filling out the online form.
They'll talk to you about your situation and and let you know whether or not you already qualify for Social Security benefits up to $2,671 per month.
It costs you nothing to talk to them and they'll work for you to get you the benefits you deserve. Plus, I make a few dollars when you complete the form.
302 S Union St
(23 Miles Away)
http://www.doveinc.org
MAX Program Emergency financial assistance.
Hours vary by location. Additional hours for Summer 2018 are listed below.
Veteran's Assistance Commission of Macon County, Inc.
http://www.co.macon.il.us/veterans-assistance.php
Provides aid to those veterans and their families that reside in the county that may qualify for and need assistance. Provides services to veterans and his/her family that may not be available from other agencies. Provides assistance in filing claims to the Veterans Administration for such benefits as:
The greatest obstacle to discovery is not ignorance-it is the illusion of knowledge.
-- Daniel J Boorstin
Moultrie County Cefs Outreach
114 E Harrison St
Sullivan, IL 61951
http://www.cefseoc.org
The purpose of this program is to assist residents of South Central Illinois in meeting their housing needs and solving their housing problems. Low and moderate-income households receive priority assistance. Housing Counselors provide in-depth counseling in the following areas:
The Salvation Army Family Store
1300 Richmond Ave
http://www.tsamattoon.org
Persons facing eviction, behind on rent, or needing assistance with the first month's rent and persons whose utility bills are overdue may receive assistance, depending upon availability of funds and eligibility.
Clear Lake Veterans Memorial
Lincoln & Third St.
Riverton, IL 62561
http://www.clearlaketownship.net
Emergency Assistance for rent and utilities is available for those individuals determined eligible who have demonstrated a verifiable life threatening circumstance. Emergency Assistance is limited to once every 12 months.
Springfield Twp General Asstnc
3298 Terminal Ave
http://www.springfield-township.com
Springfield Township participates in an Emergency Energy and Rent Assistance Program, working with local utilities to provide financial assistance to prevent interruptions of service to individuals during financial hardships. The program also works with local landlords to prevent evictions by negotiating with the landlords and providing some additional financial assistance in making lease payments.
Woodside Twp Office
490 W North St
Emergency assistance is available for rent and utilities for residents of Woodside Township only. Must be currently employed to receive assistance.
Lazarus House
http://www.lazarushouse.net
The Outreach Program, funded by grants, provides rent and utility assistance to qualifying households. There is limited funding and there may be a wait-list.
Mon-Thu, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm.
Ask God's blessing on your work, but don't ask him to do it for you.
-- Dame Flora Robson
Sangamon County Treasurer
200 S 9th St #102
http://www.co.sangamon.il.us/captwnshp
If client is eligible and has an eviction notice, the township can help with up to $300 in rental assistance for a single person or married couple, or $400 if children are in the home. If client has been a shelter resident for at least 1 week of the last 10 days, the township can help with first month's rent. Must be able to provide proof that client can afford the rent of where they are moving to or living at. Must be an address in Capital Township. Must live in a dwelling separate from the owner of the property.
Arcola Twp Relief Office
Arcola, IL 61910
http://catholiccharities.rockforddiocese.org
Catholic Charities offers limited emergency assistance for rent, utilities, food, diapers, and other basic needs for individuals and families who are experiencing economic hardship. Emergency Assistance Program personnel can also refer callers to appropriate community agencies that may be able to assist them.
M-F, 8:30 am - 5:00 pm.
Limited financial assistance based on an immediate precipitating event. Individuals must reside within the Diocese of Rockford. Assistance has to provide some type of resolution to the emergency, either independently or in collaboration with case management from other social service agencies.
A soul without a high aim is like a ship without a rudder.
-- Eileen Caddy
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Prophetic Words
This video was made 42 years ago at the convention hall in Asbury Park, NJ. They died in a plane crash not long after that. Due to pilot error, they ran out of fuel and crashed in Gillsburg, Mississippi. Seems the pilot miscalculated terribly. The engine began burning fuel at an unusually high rate and the pilots did not pay attention to the instruments. Then they crashed into a tree and died. It was discovered later that the pilots kept whiskey bottles in the cockpit.
The smell of death surrounds you.
Kihei air unhealthy due to smoke from fires.
The angel of darkness is upon you.
Blackout in Old City of Philadelphia- Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Jewish Museum without power.
Blackout in Manhattan - 42nd anniversary of blackout 7/13/1977
Told You
Ultimately, it made no difference whether they didn't hear it or didn't believe it.
Prophetic Fires
This guy stayed down. This is the Holy Spirit working for you and this is what fire does.
Who wants to try next?
Because I don't need to fight to prove I'm right and I don't need to be forgiven.
Kihei used to be called "Kamaole", meaning "barren" - as in "barren wasteland". Some sort of a massive fire there right now, huh?
Would have been smart to give God what belongs to God and take the spanking boys and girls. But "would have been smart" and "f'ckin morons" are as mutually exclusive as a bunch of "debt slaves" trying to "live free".
You were supposed to settle your debts before you got taken to the judge.
No one gonna tell them what to do.....
Too late now...
Now Y'all debt slaves, trying to live free.
How incongruent....
Incongruent communication: a communication pattern in which the sender gives conflicting messages on verbal and nonverbal levels and the listener does not know which message to accept.
What could possibly go wrong? Everything....
Baltusrol Golf club burst into flames. That's where they have the big golf championship game thingy. But the relevance to the situation is about how the golf course got its name. Look it up for yourselves you uncooperative fucks - it's easier to read than a crap circle.
He asked, 'How did you get in here without wedding clothes, friend?' The man was speechless. Then the king told the attendants, 'Tie him hand and foot, and throw him outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.'
And those darn laws of metaphysics are unbreakable.
Be careful what you ask for, because you're going to get something entirely unexpected.
"That Smell" was on the "Street Survivors" album released 3 days before they died - unexpectedly.
Also notable is that Elvis Presley ("The King of Rock 'n Roll" or simply "The King", peanut butter & banana sandwich afficionado, and junkie) died while shitting in the bathroom at "Graceland" in Memphis, TN the 33rd + 1 day after this video was made (42nd + 1 day after Independence Day). He was 42. Elvis was a twin and his father's name was Vernon. Kind of like "tomorrow wasn't here for him".
The interested reader can look up the Biblical meanings of 34 and 43. but basically it means "You're Fucked, dipshit debt slaves".
The music is reversible but time is not. Turn back. Turn back. Turn back. Turn back.
(One of the most fundamental meanings of "Repent" is to "Turn back".)
Too Late Now
The seventh angel poured out his bowl into the air, and out of the temple came a loud voice from the throne, saying, "It is done!"
-- Revelation 16:17
To face the music (or, as some say, 'pay the piper') means to accept consequences, to own up to the responsibility created by one's actions. Face the music is an American idiom.
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Racism and Injustice in America's Largest Criminal Court
Nicole Gonzalez Van Cleve
Law / Law and Society
Sociology / Race, Class, and Gender
Law / Criminal Law
Winner of the 2019 ASA Distinguished Scholarly Book Award, sponsored by the American Sociological Association (ASA).
Winner of the 2017 Eduardo Bonilla-Silva Outstanding Book Award, sponsored by the Society for the Study of Social Problems.
Finalist for the C. Wright Mills Book Award, sponsored by the Society for the Study of Social Problems.
Winner of the 2017 Oliver Cromwell Cox Book Award, sponsored by the American Sociological Association's Section on Racial and Ethnic Minorities.
Winner of the 2017 Mary Douglas Prize for Best Book, sponsored by the American Sociological Association's Sociology of Culture Section.
Honorable Mention in the 2017 Book Award from the American Sociological Association's Section on Race, Class, and Gender.
NAACP Image Award Nominee for an Outstanding Literary Work from a debut author.
Winner of the 2017 Prose Award for Excellence in Social Sciences and the 2017 Prose Category Award for Law and Legal Studies, sponsored by the Professional and Scholarly Publishing Division, Association of American Publishers.
Silver Medal from the Independent Publisher Book Awards (Current Events/Social Issues category).
Americans are slowly waking up to the dire effects of racial profiling, police brutality, and mass incarceration, especially in disadvantaged neighborhoods and communities of color. The criminal courts are the crucial gateway between police action on the street and the processing of primarily black and Latino defendants into jails and prisons. And yet the courts, often portrayed as sacred, impartial institutions, have remained shrouded in secrecy, with the majority of Americans kept in the dark about how they function internally. Crook County bursts open the courthouse doors and enters the hallways, courtrooms, judges' chambers, and attorneys' offices to reveal a world of punishment determined by race, not offense.
Nicole Gonzalez Van Cleve spent ten years working in and investigating the largest criminal courthouse in the country, Chicago–Cook County, and based on over 1,000 hours of observation, she takes readers inside our so-called halls of justice to witness the types of everyday racial abuses that fester within the courts, often in plain sight. We watch white courtroom professionals classify and deliberate on the fates of mostly black and Latino defendants while racial abuse and due process violations are encouraged and even seen as justified. Judges fall asleep on the bench. Prosecutors hang out like frat boys in the judges' chambers while the fates of defendants hang in the balance. Public defenders make choices about which defendants they will try to "save" and which they will sacrifice. Sheriff's officers cruelly mock and abuse defendants' family members.
Crook County's powerful and at times devastating narratives reveal startling truths about a legal culture steeped in racial abuse. Defendants find themselves thrust into a pernicious legal world where courtroom actors live and breathe racism while simultaneously committing themselves to a colorblind ideal. Gonzalez Van Cleve urges all citizens to take a closer look at the way we do justice in America and to hold our arbiters of justice accountable to the highest standards of equality.
Delve deeper into Crook County with related media and instructor resources.
Nicole Gonzalez Van Cleve is an Assistant Professor at Temple University in the Department of Criminal Justice, with courtesy appointments in the Department of Sociology and the Beasley School of Law. She is a recipient of the 2014-2015 Ford Foundation Fellowship, an affiliated scholar with the American Bar Foundation, and a former Research Director for Chicago Appleseed Fund for Justice. She has provided legal commentary on the criminal justice system for MSNBC's The Rachel Maddow Show, NBC News, CNN, and The New York Times.
"Gonzalez Van Cleve's account of the American criminal justice system, based on thousands of hours of careful observation behind the doors of the Chicago–Cook County courthouse, reveals the paradoxes and pain of our modern legal culture, including the effects on the punished and punishers alike. As Van Cleve's investigation so startlingly lays bare, just because legal institutions profess to be colorblind does not make it so. Reading Crook County helps us see the difference."
—Henry Louis Gates, Jr., Alphonse Fletcher University Professor, Harvard University
"Beautifully written and keenly insightful, Crook County is a horror story I couldn't put down. May Nicole Gonzalez Van Cleve's masterful book do for the Chicago criminal court what Upton Sinclair's The Jungle did to the meat packing industry: clean it up. Powerful, disturbing and paradigm shifting, Crook County is ethnography at its best."
—Paul Butler, Georgetown Law, author of The Chokehold: Policing Black Men
"Crook County is a searing account of how criminal courts serve as the gateway to racialized punishment. Turning a spotlight on the everyday actions of prosecutors, judges, and defense attorneys, Gonzalez Van Cleve reveals a court culture that dehumanizes and discriminates against defendants, victims, and family members. Her eye-opening analysis forces us to confront the possibility [or reality] that mass incarceration results from mass wrongful convictions of black and brown people forced into a devastating charade."
— Dorothy Roberts, University of Pennsylvania, author of Killing the Black Body: Race, Reproduction, and the Meaning of Liberty
Urgent and important, Crook County is a powerful, eye-opening account of the code of the big-city court system. Carefully dissecting this crucial step of the 'school to prison pipeline,' Nicole Gonzalez Van Cleve illustrates just how the scales of justice are cynically stacked against black and brown inner city young people, undermining their faith in our criminal justice system. Crook County is a must-read."
—Elijah Anderson, Yale University, author of Code of the Street and The Cosmopolitan Canopy
"This book is public sociology at its best. It is theoretically grounded, methodologically rigorous and innovativeIn sharp detail, the book shows how the crisis of racism is routinized in the daily functions of formal institutions of justice. There are lessons in this book, then, for any criminologist or sociologist of crime, law or deviance. It transcends geographic boundaries and at once provides seminal insights into future ethnographic research Gonzalez Van Cleve demonstrates the power of ethnography in the best possible sense."
—Benjamin Fleury-Steiner, British Journal of Criminology
"Van Cleve's book is nothing less than a tour de force, and a clarion call for bringing egalitarian principles of racial and social justice to our most overlooked of criminal justice institutions, the courts. It forces us to confront 'the everyday miscarriages of justice' that pervade today's courts, asking us what has become of Gideon's trumpet in the age of spatially and racially concentrated 'mass incarceration.' The book is destined to become a classic, and ought to be on the mandatory reading list for citizens, law and society scholars and all sentient social scientists."
—Thomas E. Reifer, Law and Society Review
"In a groundbreaking new book, Crook County: Racism and Injustice in America's Largest Criminal Court, Professor Nicole Gonzalez Van Cleve adds an important, novel dimension to this problem. She exposes the deeply flawed operation of the criminal justice system by focusing on how felonies are processed in Cook County, Illinois...Van Cleve's important ethnography brings to light the hidden and pernicious workings of the criminal justice system that often operates in the shadows."
—L. Song Richardson, Yale Law Journal
Excerpt from Chapter 4
Excerpt from Introduction
Anita's Army: Rank and File Racism in the Power to Prosecute
Chicago police culture problems run deeper than symbolic firings
The Rachel Maddow Show
Latina Criminology: Deep Problems with Chicago Police, Prosecutors
Chicago Police Under Fire
The Emotional Politics of Racism
Paula Ioanide
Paint the White House Black
Michael P. Jeffries
Inequality in the Promised Land
R. L’Heureux Lewis-McCoy
Letters of the Law
Sora Y. Han
Race Migrations
Wendy D. Roth
Blinded by Sight
Osagie K. Obasogie
Race Decoded
Catherine Bliss
The Ethnic Project
Vilna Bashi Treitler
Beneath the Surface of White Supremacy
Moon-Kie Jung
State of White Supremacy
Edited by Moon-Kie Jung, João H. Costa Vargas, and Eduardo Bonilla-Silva
The Latino Threat
Leo R. Chavez
Sunbelt Justice
Mona Lynch
The Birth and Death of Literary Theory
Galin Tihanov
The Lived Nile
Jennifer L. Derr
Ordinary Unhappiness
Jon Baskin
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Strategic Execution
Driving Breakthrough Performance in Business
Kenneth J. Carrig and Scott A. Snell
PRE-ORDER THIS BOOK
Business / Strategy
Business / Management and Leadership
Business / Organizational Development and Change
Business / Human Resources
CEOs regularly identify strategic execution as their biggest challenge, and the top priority facing today's business leaders. Based on their research with senior executives across a variety of industries—and including firms like Marriott, Microsoft, SunTrust, UPS, and Vail Resorts—Kenneth J. Carrig and Scott A. Snell have distilled the elements that are most critical for execution. This book addresses the challenges of execution, why it matters, and why the approach remains elusive. It introduces an integrated framework for understanding four priorities underlying execution excellence. Ultimately, it all comes down to alignment, agility, ability, and architecture. The authors lay out a process for applying the framework, helping business leaders to diagnose their challenges and to determine their path toward breakthrough performance.
Kenneth J. Carrig is former Corporate Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer for SunTrust Banks. He now serves as an advisor to CEOs. He has been a Fellow of the National Academy of Human Resources since 2004. Carrig is co-author of Building Profit through Building People (SHRM, 2008), the proceeds of which benefit Share Our Strength, an organization dedicated to fighting childhood hunger.
Scott A. Snell is Professor of Business Administration and former Senior Associate Dean for Executive Education at the University of Virginia's Darden Graduate School of Business. He is co-author of several books, notably Management: Leading and Collaborating in a Competitive World, 12th Edition (McGraw-Hill, 2016) and Managing Human Resources, 18th Edition (Cengage, 2018).
"Ken Carrig and Scott Snell provide a framework that can be applied in any setting and draw on real-life examples to detail the elements of successful execution."
—Arne N. Sorenson, President & CEO, and David A. Rodriguez, Global Chief Human Resources Officer, Marriott International
"Carrig and Snell have identified the most critical approaches to building truly great organizations. This is a must-read for anyone wanting to know what best-in-class leadership should look like today."
—Rob Katz, CEO, Vail Resorts
"Carrig and Snell provide a concise cross-section of business experiences against the backdrop of their 4A framework to create a thought-provoking blueprint for excellence in execution."
—William H. Rogers, CEO, SunTrust Banks
"Strategic Execution distills decades of leadership experience into an actionable guide for companies, teams, and managers. If you want your company—or your team—to move faster, this is the book for you."
—Laszlo Bock, CEO of Humu, author of Work Rules!, and former Chief People Officer, Google
"Strategic Execution offers an update to the classic book Execution by Larry Bossidy and Ram Charan, addressing the same enduring challenges but with solutions designed for the Information Age."
—Laurie Siegel, Senior Advisor, G100 Network, and former Chief Human Resources Officer, Tyco International
"My mission is to help successful leaders achieve positive, lasting change in behavior. This book can help both individuals and teams achieve this mission!"
—Marshall Goldsmith, New York Times bestselling author of Triggers and What Got You Here Won't Get You There
More in Business—Strategy
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William F. Meehan III and Kim Starkey Jonker, Foreword by Jim Collins
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Invisible Companions
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Provisional Avant-Gardes
Banking on the State
Hicham Safieddine
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Home News in brief Snippets Daan’s Snippets November 2018/24
Daan’s Snippets November 2018/24
With pleasure – In 1985 I was hired as a conveyancer and was stuck into Groot Dries’ agency conveyancing practice. Learning to collaborate was the first order of the day. Stowell’s employed a receptionist who, when asked to be put through, would respond just: with pleasure”. She had a dark, husky and incredibly sexy voice. I was titillated beyond measure.
When I could stand this no longer, I drove over and asked to meet the receptionist: she was sixty-five in the shade.
Our conversations were never the same again. Reality destroys dreams.
Economic review
Municipalities are, by definition, third tier government structures. These entities owe Eskom R17bn. Water provision is in a similar situation. This state of affairs was brought about by the State providing services which it could not afford. On a macroeconomic level our state is in the same situation. Go figure.
~-~
Day zero for the SABC is said to be February. Good. We need lots of people retrenched in order to drive home the message that running a state organisation does not make one immune to financial reality. I cannot help but wonder whether Mr Motsoeneng will be called to account?
Our Treasury announced this week that it had made substantial progress on the National Health Insurance Bill, having reached agreement (with whom?) on most of the major issues. And we thought it had stalled?
Discovery Bank will launch in March next year as a digital “behavioural bank”. It will provide incentives (think being nudged/encouraged to do the right thing) for good conduct and will reward you for this.
Discovery says that there are now eight million more credit-active consumers in South Africa than the number of employed people. Amazingly there are those who would lend to others who have no work.
Botswana has been rated the best African country for safari travel. Considering that one does not have to pay for long-distance flights, this should be an option we should seriously consider.
SWMBO received a brochure from Sanlam advising that that insurer will be taking on B-BBEEE partners. Factually that entity will be diluting its shares by the percentage “sold” (at a discount and lending money for the purpose) to its newfound partner. Much talk about strategic intent and leverage boils down to hoping that its newfound status will be rewarded in the marketplace.
Backed up… The SA Post Office is still about 4.8 million national postal items, and many more international postal items, in arrears, following on a strike four months ago.
Momentum has refused to pay out on the death of an insured who was shot owing to his not having declared his diabetic condition. Go figure… and change your insurer if ensured there.
It is forecasted that smartphone growth will drop into negative territory yoy for the first time. Apparently, upgrades are still de rigueur but, owing to the increasing cost of such devices, replacement cycles are lengthening.
The latest electric motorbike comes with a suit and helmet interfaced with the bike. There is no instrument panel on the bike – this is displayed head-up inside the helmet screen as does the rearview mirror. The suit gives haptic feedback such as tapping you on the shoulder when a car is coming up from behind and so on. For those of us who have not finished playing.
https://advrider.com/arc-vector-is-a-115000-electric-bike-with-an-interface-that-may-change-motorcycles-eicma-2018/
Property review
“Bananaism”: Build Absolutely Nothing Anywhere Near Anything. The term is applied to those who buy into areas which would develop in order to lock in the gains that are expected in such a development. This leads to open areas owned by some but not being actually used with in a development.
A report in Times holds that only one in four SA residential tenants pays rent in full every month. Furthermore, there is a spike the use of fraudulent documentation submitted by tenants in order to secure tenancies. This is attributed to the jump in the cost of living. Essentially: hold onto good tenants if possible.
It’s not us it’s them: the KZN Department of Health has spent virtually its entire budget for the year on medical negligence claims – that department is reportedly facing claims to the tune of more than R17bn. The department blames unscrupulous lawyers, doctors et cetera et cetera. Imagine what could be achieved if one spent that sum on beefing up the provision of medical services?
The principle that one needs to be registered to lend money, as a credit provider, was reaffirmed a month ago in the Du Bruyn case. Business partners parted ways. One bought the other out, paying in instalments, plus interest. It was argued that this was not an arm’s length transaction but a familial relationship that was being terminated. Nice try. This type of arrangement sneaks up on one: typically, someone wants to buy a house but can only get a loan for just less than the purchase price. So, the parties, quite logically, decide to let the transaction go through on the basis that the balance of the purchase price is on credit. Care must be taken to make sure that such a transaction falls outside of the national credit act.
http://www.saflii.org/za/cases/ZASCA/2018/143.html
One of the risks, when leasing property to an individual, is that section 14 of the Consumer Protection Act entitles a consumer to cancel a fixed-term agreement by giving twenty business days’ notice and thus walk away from the term imposed in the lease. Section 14(3) allows the landowner to impose a reasonable cancellation penalty. The response from the profession was to impose, say, a two-month rental penalty on such cancellation. Would such a penalty be valid? A short note, written for STBB is available on the topic – ask me.
There are a number of extra-judicial ways to change one’s matrimonial property system during marriage. One of them is to donate from one spouse to another subject to the exclusion of joint ownership: in theory this is acceptable but has been rejected by our courts with reference to the immutability rule (I have been asked this several times!). The article boils down to two useful discussions i.e. underhand separation agreements and the conclusion of a universal partnership by spouses married out of community of property.
The article in question is written by V Schalkwyk and is in Afrikaans. Ask me for a copy.
I resigned for the sake of South Africa. Ex Min Gigaba
The departure of Minister Gigaba has been hailed as the return of moral leadership: BS. The oath of office for a minister goes like this: I swear that I will be faithful to the Republic of South Africa and will obey, respect and uphold the constitution and other laws of the Republic; and undertake to hold my office as minister with honour and dignity…
So, remaining on as MP requires a different set of conduct rules?
This gentleman said that he served at the pleasure of the president and the ANC. The Prez perhaps (he representing the government and the people), but the ANC? Where does that organisation come into this picture?
It is reported that Mr Zuma is seeking a permanent stay of prosecution owing to the delays in prosecuting him. One’s immediate reaction is of indignation in that it seems probable that the delay is owing to his own machinations. Proving the latter though might be difficult.
Our one deputy president, Mr Mabuza, is in hot water because he took sick leave when he was not ill…
He flew to Russia in a plane provided by the Gupta family. This, he claims, does not make him beholden to that grouping. If someone gives you a R1m fillip, I suppose this is just because they are great friends of yours, why else. One wonders: will the deputy Prez pay donations tax on this gratuity? Will he declare this gift in Parliament?
Sincerity is everything. If you can fake that, you’ve got it made. Burns
The Buddhist monk approaches the hot dog vendor and asks: “Make me one with everything”
So, Buddha orders a hot dog from a cart and gives the guy a $20.
There’s a confused moment of silence and Buddha asks, “where’s my change?”
Vendor says: “Ah, change must come from within.”
Why do mice have such small balls?
Because not very many of them know how to dance.
Mediaeval priests administered the communion in Latin, not spoken by their parishioners. The communion ceremony begins with the latin:
Hoc est Corpus – This is the body
The parishioners converted this to Hocus Pocus
Daan Steenkamp Attorneys
Previous articleLaw Society Clarifies Confusion Relating to Its Continuation Under The Legal Practice Act
Next articleBarry Varkel’s Humour Corner Continued
Daans Snippets – 21st of 2019
Daan’s Snippets – 20th of 2019
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How to reformat a Tablo DVR hard drive, so you can use it with your Windows PC
Windows won't recognize hard drives after they've been used with a Tablo DVR. We'll show you how to fix that.
Jared Newman / TechHive
This 32-inch Toshiba cord-cutting TV has dropped to $100 on Prime Day
Launch the Windows Disk Management tool
Make note of all the current disk numbers
Plug in the Tablo drive
Prepare to delete the volume
Create a new volume
Assign the drive a letter
Format the drive
You now have a Windows-compatible hard drive
Tablo is the best over-the-air DVR solution for most people thanks to its user-friendly setup and app support. But it has one complicating factor: There's no easy way to reuse an external hard drive on your PC after it's been formatted for DVR use. Windows simply won't recognize the hard drive when you plug it into the computer's USB port. We'll show you how to get around that.
The problem reportedly arises because Tablo uses a Linux-based partition when it formats the drive, rendering it invisible to Windows File Explorer. As such, there's no way to copy your recordings from the Tablo drive to other storage. But if you've stopped using Tablo or upgraded to a larger drive, and you just want to get the old drive working in Windows again, you can wipe the data and reformat it. Don't plug the drive in until we get to that step.
The easiest way to do this is to search "diskmgmt" and open the option that reads "Create and format hard disk partitions." You can also search for "create and format" in Control Panel.
Disk Management will list all of the available drives in the bottom half of the program window. Each connected drive will have its own number (Disk 0, Disk 1, and so on). You might also see several partitions (partition 0, partition 1, and so own) for each disk.
Plug the Tablo drive into one of your PC's USB ports and look for a new disk number to appear in the Disk Management program. (You might need to scroll down to see it.) Verify that the amount of available storage matches what you know is available on the Tablo drive.
Triple-check that you are working with the Tablo drive, because this next step will delete the volume. If you pick the wrong drive, you will lose data. Ready? Right-click on the disk and choose "Delete Volume." Windows will display this message: "The selected partition was not created by Windows and might contain data recognized by other operating systems. Do you want to delete this partition?" Verify one more time that you're working with the Tablo drive and then click "Yes."
Disk Management will now label your old Tablo drive as "Unallocated." Right-click on it and select "New Simple Volume." When the New Simple Volume Wizard appears, click "Next" and then verify that the simple volume size is equal to the maximum volume size. Click "Okay."
Choose a letter to associate with the drive. Windows will choose the first available letter by default, but you can override this (provided the letter you want to use is available). Pick one and then click "Okay."
Verify that NTFS is the file system selected and then enter a name in the "Volume label" field if you wish. The option to "Perform a quick format" is checked by default, which should be fine. Unchecking the quick format option will ensure there are no bad sectors on the drive, but that can take hours. Click "Next" and the Disk Management tool will reformat the drive using the NTFS file system.
The drive should now appear in Windows File Explorer, and you're free to use it however you wish. Just keep in mind that if you ever decide to use it with a Tablo DVR again, you'll need to reformat it and wipe the data using Tablo's in-app setup.
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EU's Mogherini eyes Iran SPV for trade 'before November'
NEW YORK (Reuters) - The European Union’s foreign policy chief, Federica Mogherini, said on Wednesday a so-called Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) under consideration to facilitate trade with Iran could be in place “before November.”
The SPV aims to keep trade flowing even if possible U.S. sanctions hit Tehran. Asked at an event in New York when it could be established, Mogherini said: “I believe before November.”
Asked if the United States’ pulling out of the Iran deal could be a serious challenge to the U.S. dollar as reserve currency in the context of the creation of the SPV, Mogherini said “it is still an initial stage, but this could be a result of that. For sure, it has made us and other parts of the world wonder what kind of (financial) autonomy we have.”
Even as she said she continues to consider the United States the EU’s strongest ally, Mogherini said “no sovereign country or organization can accept that somebody else decides with whom you are allowed to do trade with.”
European diplomats have previously described the SPV proposal as a means to create a barter system, similar to one used by the Soviet Union during the Cold War, to exchange Iranian oil for European goods without money changing hands.
RAND: U.S. is isolated on Iran
Document on Iran-Europe co-op should be ready by the next few days: MP
EU activates law on protecting trade with Iran: Mogherini
EU, China, Russia defy Trump with plan to keep trading with Iran
Europeans has picked Luxembourg to host SPV
US sanctions
Special Purpose Vehicle" (SPV)
financial) autonomy
The European Union’s foreign policy chief
before November
the Soviet Union during the Cold War
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Nervous World Eyes Nuclear-Armed India and Pakistan
ISLAMABAD The world's oldest nuclear adversaries avoided armed conflict for fear of the potential consequences.
Its two newest nuclear powers engage in daily artillery battles.
Ever since Pakistan and India staged tit-for-tat nuclear tests in May 1998 the world has had to face the possibility the first nuclear war could erupt in one of the most crowded areas on earth.
Unlike the United States and the Soviet Union, which avoided armed conflict during a Cold War that lasted almost half a century, the armed struggle between India and Pakistan for control of Kashmir continued without a pause after the countries flexed their nuclear muscles.
"Can you imagine nuclear weapons in both hands and they have a flashpoint like this?" asked an Asian diplomat, endorsing the international pressure on the two countries to sign the treaty banning nuclear tests.
Last month a Pakistani journal, Independent Research, unemotionally said the government must be prepared to wage a nuclear war with India a Subcontinental version of the former Soviet-U.S. doctrine of mutual assured destruction, or MAD.
"It is noteworthy that a low-level Indian nuclear attack can push Pakistan back into the Cave Period, while Pakistan needs to rain at least 100 thermonuclear weapons on Indian population centers to create a somewhat similar situation," it said.
The author advocated that Pakistan stockpile enough bombs and acquire enough missiles and submarines to deliver them to ensure that a nuclear war would also turn India into an uninhabitable wasteland.
Apocalyptic Vision The positive interpretation of that apocalyptic vision is that the very danger of events spinning out of control and ending in a nuclear exchange will put a brake on conventional fighting, a limit that did not exist when the bitter foes fought full-scale wars in 1948, 1965 and 1971.
That assessment was reinforced by the struggle over Kargil last year, when infiltrators from Pakistan occupied mountain positions threatening India's supply route to its forces holding glacial northern regions of Kashmir.
Despite severe losses in inching up the slopes to drive the enemy back one by one, the Indian government steadfastly refused to escalate the conflict despite concluding the incursion was totally orchestrated by the Pakistan military command.
In a world that feared this could lead to another full-scale war, only this time between nuclear powers, India impressed foreign governments by refraining from retaliation elsewhere along the border and even banning its air force from entering Pakistani territory.
Who Controls the Bombs? That battle in the intractable Kashmir dispute underlined a key difference between India and Pakistan.
In India, the military, and hence nuclear weapons, remain firmly under the control of elected civilians.
The Pakistan army not only controls defence policy, it seized power last October in the latest of a long series of military coups.
Of all nuclear powers, Pakistan has the worst record of chronic political instability.
Its current military government faces a war in neighboring Afghanistan that has driven millions of people into Pakistan, internal political divisions, growing tension between Islamist and secular forces and severe economic problems.
There is little fear of rash actions by the current rulers, but understandably there is unease in foreign capitals about whose finger might be on the trigger in the future.
"It doesn't look good for the world if a nuclear power defaults, "said Shireen Mazari, head of the government-funded Institute of Strategic Studies, confident the International Monetary Fund will provide more funds to Pakistan because the alternative is too dangerous.
"It certainly doesn't create stability." Pakistan is conscious of the problem of control and is trying to develop a coherent nuclear doctrine, diplomats in Islamabad say.
They say Pakistani representatives have been conspicuously more active in international discussions, trying to persuade the world they are acting responsibly.
Key Force Imbalance The key problem, though, is the imbalance in the forces of India and Pakistan that could raise the pressure on Pakistan to go nuclear.
Even before a dramatic increase in military spending in the wake of the Kargil attack, India had marked superiority in the air, on the sea and in every category of land weapons. All except nuclear bombs.
According to military experts, the 1998 nuclear tests showed India, developing its own weapons, had much work to do before it could claim a dependable nuclear arsenal.
In contrast, Pakistan, using what Western experts say is a Chinese-developed and tested weapon, probably has a stockpile of usable bombs.
Having fought three wars already in their brief existence without resolving key issues, the prospect of a fourth hangs perpetually over the region.
If India unleashed the full weight of its armed forces, Pakistan with little depth or natural lines of defense might quickly see its key cities under threat and face a decision to use nuclear weapons.
"The Pakistanis themselves estimate they could last 20 days in a conventional war. It could be only 14 days if they lose their air cover," said one Western diplomat.
"At that point, all bets would be off." (Reuter)
It’s official: India, Pakistan are at war, again
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Home/Our Work/Puerto Rico/News
news/articles related to Puerto Rico
Spotlight: Conservation on a crowded island
“Mom saves sea turtles!” That’s the answer you’ll get from five-year-old Gabriel if you ask him what his mother does for a living.
New Addition to San Miguel Natural Reserve
Another 117 acres have been bought and protected at the San Miguel Natural Reserve east of San Juan, The Trust for Public Land and the government of Puerto Rico announced today.
TPL Awarded $1 Million for Puerto Rico Land Conservation
The Trust for Public Land has been awarded $1 million in federal wetlands conservation funding for its work in Puerto Rico's San Miguel Natural Reserve, it was announced today.
152 Acres Along Puerto Rico Coastline Protected
On the 15th anniversary of a million-gallon oil spill that damaged the coastline of PuertoRico, NOAA and partner organizations are celebrating the purchase of 152 acres to expand acoastal reserve near one of the areas hardest hit by the spill.
Turtle Habitat on Puerto Rico Coast Protected
Governor An?bal Acevedo Vil? announced today the preservation of the 270-acre San Miguel property on the north coast of Puerto Rico, in the area known as the Northeastern Ecological Corridor. The Commonwealth worked with The Trust for Public Land, a national nonprofit land conservation organization, to permanently protect the property.
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Tag: Card
February 26, 2019 Fare Evasion
TTC lost $61M to fare evasion in 2018
Auditors general’s report shows fare evasion costed three times more than the Canadian agency previously said and proposes 27 recommendations to fix the situation
Toronto Transit Commission’s prolonged fare evasion issue does not seem to improve. In 2018, TTC lost $61M to fare evasion, according to Toronto’s auditor general report. This figure implies 5.4% of total passengers skipped the fare. It also triples the estimate the agency has consistently defended over time. The bus is the public transport...
January 29, 2019 Ticketing
Unlimited electronic tickets at Beijing subway
The Chinese metro system rolls out passes that allow passengers travel as many times as they want within fixed time periods
Beijing subway has expanded its travel options with five additional unlimited electronic tickets. Passengers can now hop on and off the network as often as they want within a fixed time period. The only exception is the airport shuttle line. Specifically, passengers can buy cards for one, two, three, five or seven days for...
January 22, 2019 Fare Enforcement, Fare Evasion
More transit inspection to combat fare evasion at TTC
The transport agency also suggests a 10% fare hike to meet capital needs and sustain operations
Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) is estimated to lose $50 million annually to fare evasion. An internal report made public a year ago suggested that the fare evasion rate was 4.4% instead of the official 2% figure. It also stated that a 2% reduction of this rate would save the agency more than $29 million...
January 8, 2019 Fare Evasion
Technology upgrade to fight Opal card loophole at Sydney Airport
Since January 7th, train commuters are forced to top up their pass to stop negative balance cards
New South Wales (Australia) public transport travel card Opal has a loophole which allows passengers to travel with a negative balance. This situation has led to a $8 million loss to fare evasion since 2014. About 90% of negative balance cases came from the Airport Line, causing $4 million loses in the last financial...
December 4, 2018 Fines
Annual pass reduces ticketless passengers in Prague
The ticket fine reprieve Nejedeš načerno? turns 4500 fare-dodgers into annual public transport pass holders
Last October, Prague Public Transit Company (DPP) implemented an innovative ticket fine reprieve called “Nejedeš načerno?”(Not black riding, are you?). When caught travelling without a valid ticket, fare-dodgers can reduce the fine by half by buying an annual public transport pass. Since then, more than 4,500 people have turned from ticketless passengers to annual...
November 27, 2018 Fare Gates
Check out gates at Brussels metro
Passengers will have to validate their tickets twice: when entering and when exiting
Passengers at Brussels Metro must now validate their ticket to exit stations, like in the premetro. The operator STIB-MIVB is gradually rolling out check out gates throughout the network. Since last week, there are doors at Joséphine-Charlotte et Gribaumont stations in line 1. The operator will equip 15 metro stations by the end of...
November 6, 2018 Ticketing
Wristbands, a new way to pay for public transport
Vancouver’s transport agency TransLink trials alternatives to Compass Cards
TransLink https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oUQ7a-u0YJ8
Vancouver’s transport agency TransLink keeps innovating in ticketing options. After deploying the Compass Card fare system two years ago and introducing a Tap-to-Pay system earlier this year, TransLink is testing wristbands an alternative form of paying. “We are always looking for new ways to improve customer experience” they state. Wristbands would work as the...
October 23, 2018 Ticketing
PRESTO fare card system shows “continued performance below targets”
The electronic payment system in Ontario (Canada) is costing millions and does not achieve the expected reliability rates to fully eliminate tickets, passes, tokens and cash
The electronic payment system PRESTO, which works across local transit in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA) and Ottawa, has a long way to go. According to an internal Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) briefing obtained by Toronto Star newspaper, PRESTO shows “continued performance below targets”. Problems with operating transactions and card readers keep...
July 2, 2018 Ticketing
Hands-free ticketing trialing in Singapore
A six-month pilot test is running at four MTR stations to make it easier for people with disabilities to enter and exit
Singapore is testing a new hands-free ticketing technology to make it easier for people with disabilities to enter and exit stations. The trial, which started late June, will run for six months in four MRT stations and involves 50 participants. The trial will allow Land Transport Authority (LTA) to assess the effectiveness and feasibility...
April 23, 2018 Fare Evasion
Fake cards account for 40% of Barcelona’s fare evasion
People travelling without a valid ticket costed the Barcelona operator TMB 9.6 million euros in 2017
EL SOTANO PHOTO http://www.elsotanophoto.com/
Fare evasion in public transport caused a loss of 9.6 million euros to the operator Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona (TMB) in 2017. Almost half of this cost was due to passengers sneaking into the metro with fake cards. According to the estimates of the consortium Autoritat de Transport Metropolità (ATM), around 22,200 trips were...
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SportBasketball
sport, basketball,
The Burnie Tigers inflicted the reigning premiers Penguin with their first loss of the men’s roster in round two action on Friday. The Tigers dominated the second half of the encounter to defeat the Blues 81-74 at the Burnie Basketball Stadium. In a balanced first quarter between the two sides, the Tigers took a 21-17 lead at the first change. The Blues bounced back in the second quarter to lead 43-42 on the back of a 26-21 term. But it would be the last joy the Blues would have for the remainder of the game, with the Tigers outscoring them 22-15 and 17-16 after half-time. Tigers captain Brad Simpson was the hero in his 40 minutes, scoring 28 points and adding 11 rebounds. Fraser Eaton with 24 points led the charge for the Blues. Ulverstone were made to work hard against the visiting Smithton at Ulverstone Basketball Stadium before breaking the game open for a 92-89 victory. The Hoppers opened up a seven-point lead at quarter time and the margin grew to nine points at the long break, with the score at 47-38. The Saints could not reduce the margin in the third quarter as the Hoppers would take a 71-60 led into the final quarter. Despite a 29-19 final quarter in the Saints favour, the Hoppers lead was too much to overcome. Bryan Umoru with 26 points and Klay Griffiths with 25 points were the Hoppers’ stars. Jaylen Larry scored 24 points for the Saints. Wynyard’s depth was too much for Devonport with the Wildcats claiming a 87-63 victory at the Wynyard Basketball Stadium. After trailing by three points at quarter-time, the Wildcats would win the remaining quarter by five points, eight points and 14 points respectively.. Sejr Deans with 25 points was the Wildcats’ best. American North-West Thunder import Jordan Bowling scored 18 for the Warriors. Somerset continued their strong start to the season after coming away from Latrobe with a 84-73 victory. The season will continue on Tuesday
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February 8 2019 - 10:00PM
Burnie inflicted Penguin with their first loss of the year in the NWBU men's roster
Jarryd McGuane
Star: Burnie's Brad Simpson was unstoppable with 28 points from 40 minutes in the Tigers' seven-point win over Penguin. Picture: Simon Sturzaker.
The Burnie Tigers inflicted the reigning premiers Penguin with their first loss of the men’s roster in round two action on Friday.
The Tigers dominated the second half of the encounter to defeat the Blues 81-74 at the Burnie Basketball Stadium.
In a balanced first quarter between the two sides, the Tigers took a 21-17 lead at the first change.
The Blues bounced back in the second quarter to lead 43-42 on the back of a 26-21 term.
But it would be the last joy the Blues would have for the remainder of the game, with the Tigers outscoring them 22-15 and 17-16 after half-time.
Tigers captain Brad Simpson was the hero in his 40 minutes, scoring 28 points and adding 11 rebounds.
Fraser Eaton with 24 points led the charge for the Blues.
Ulverstone were made to work hard against the visiting Smithton at Ulverstone Basketball Stadium before breaking the game open for a 92-89 victory.
The Hoppers opened up a seven-point lead at quarter time and the margin grew to nine points at the long break, with the score at 47-38.
The Saints could not reduce the margin in the third quarter as the Hoppers would take a 71-60 led into the final quarter.
Despite a 29-19 final quarter in the Saints favour, the Hoppers lead was too much to overcome.
Bryan Umoru with 26 points and Klay Griffiths with 25 points were the Hoppers’ stars.
Jaylen Larry scored 24 points for the Saints.
Wynyard’s depth was too much for Devonport with the Wildcats claiming a 87-63 victory at the Wynyard Basketball Stadium.
After trailing by three points at quarter-time, the Wildcats would win the remaining quarter by five points, eight points and 14 points respectively..
Sejr Deans with 25 points was the Wildcats’ best.
American North-West Thunder import Jordan Bowling scored 18 for the Warriors.
Somerset continued their strong start to the season after coming away from Latrobe with a 84-73 victory.
The season will continue on Tuesday
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OPINION: SAFA drops ball in Bafana assessment
Cape Town - The South African Football Association (SAFA) is sadly not renowned for objectivity in running its affairs or propagating them accurately and expeditiously on a website that is seemingly more absorbed in publicising the ongoing activities of president Danny Jordaan.
And so it came as no surprise that SAFA reported after Bafana Bafana's jarring 1-0 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) opening defeat against the Ivory Coast that only a 63rd minute breakaway goal from Jonathan Kodjia was the difference between two well-matched teams.
Most observers imbued with a degree of realism viewed the occasion at the sultry, mainly deserted Al Salam Stadium in Cairo as anything but a confrontation between two well-matched sides.
Instead, the overall general superiority and composure of the Ivorians was palpably evident and a scoreline of 4-1 or 3-1 in favour of the 2015 champions would have aptly demonstrated the difference between the two teams.
Only two truly world class saves by Bafana goalkeeper Ronwen Williams prevented the Ivory Coast from adding to their tally, not to mention a second scorching free-kick from the irrepressible Pepe that thundered against the crossbar.
A couple of hastily misfired shots and a well-taken header from Bafana captain, Thulani Hlatshwayo, following a corner, were the net sum of Bafana's scoring efforts during the 90 minutes.
So what game was SAFA watching?
Where did a highly optimistic and reasonably complemented Bafana fall down and fail to come up to expectations at the first critical calling in Egypt?
Principally, it seems, despite a reasonably lengthy build-up programme - SAFA failed to provide coach Stuart Baxter with a series of build-up matches against stern opponents in order to provide a true and adequate test of the South African's ability and shortcomings.
Now SAFA has, at least, made one point right. The next vital AFCON game against a modest Namibia is a do-or-die affair!
Bafana have the mettle to do better than against the Ivorians, but with the extra pressure thrust on them to remain in the tournament, who knows, anything can happen.
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2014 Toyota Yaris Review
Reviews Specs Photos Inventory
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The Car Connection Expert Review
John Voelcker
Good city gas mileage
Nice steering feel
Smooth ride
Supportive front seats
Bluetooth easy to use
Noisy, harsh engine
Outdated four-speed automatic
Litlte power for passing
Generic exterior lines
Steering wheel doesn't telescope
The 2014 Toyota Yaris doesn't get especially impressive fuel economy ratings; for those, consider the Toyota Prius C, also a five-door subcompact…
The 2014 Toyota Yaris doesn't get especially impressive fuel economy ratings; for those, consider the Toyota Prius C, also a five-door subcompact hatchbck, rated at 50 mpg--though it's a few thousand dollars more expensive.
The 2014 Toyota Yaris is built for city commuting, but on highways it reveals some major weak spots.
The 2014 Toyota Yaris is the most affordable of Toyota's U.S. models, not counting the similarly sized Scion xD model; and it overlaps somewhat with the Prius C hybrid subcompact that's around its size but aimed at different market segments. It's a competent subcompact hatchback, yet very little causes it to stand out above other subcompacts in this increasingly competitive--and growing--segment of the car market.
The Yaris was last redesigned for 2012, and it offers the unusual option of a three-door model as well as the more customary five-door hatchback. The Yaris sedan that was part of the lineup in previous years, however, has been withdrawn from the U.S. market. And if one of your motivations for buying a small car is fuel economy, it's not particularly competitive--it is rated at 32 or 33 mpg combined, depending on trim level and equipment. While it's a few thousand dollars cheaper than the Prius C hybrid that sits next to it on the showroom floor, that car's 50-mpg rating is pretty much the definition of fuel economy--and at a starting price under $20,000.
Part of the shortfall in fuel economy can be chalked up to its 106-horsepower, 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine. It'll move around town fine with the five-speed manual gearbox if you keep the engine speeds up, but its slow, noisy, and outmoded four-speed automatic strains at highway speeds--reminiscent of nothing so much as the old "econobox" cars of 10 or 20 years ago. More modern technologies--direct injection, turbocharging, six-speed or continuously-variable transmissions--are nowhere to be found. This is a technologically Plain Jane car.
Review continues below
From the outside, the Yaris appears brawny without being a caricature (as some Scion models seem to be). The broad front airdam, blunt nose, and distinct wheel openings give it a solid appearance, with the interior being straightforward but unremarkable. Storage space inside is good, and the front seats are comfortable and supportive, with plenty of room. Rear seats are a different story; they're smaller than those in many competitors, particularly the Nissan Versa Note, and the Yaris is more usable for two adults than for four. Neither cargo space nor flexibility are as good as the perennial class leader, the Honda Fit.
The slightly smaller size of the Yaris makes it nimble in city use and easy to park. Its electric power steering is nicely weighted--which can't be said about all Toyota models--and the stiffer suspension of the SE sport model improves cornering without affecting ride comfort. Ride quality is good in general, but the Yaris gets noisy at higher speeds, with the engine taking on a coarse, harsh note when pushed hard.
Since the latest generation of Yaris was launched for 2012, its stiffer structure and nine airbags look poised for better protection; although in reality its IIHS and federal safety ratings have been a mixed bag.
The 2014 Yaris is largely unchanged from previous years. Even the base Yaris L model now includes a six-speaker audio system, SiriusXM satellite radio compatibility, HD Radio, an auxiliary input, a USB port, iPod connectivity, automatic sound leveling, Bluetooth hands-free calling, and Bluetooth audio streaming capability. With a starting price around $15,000, it's not the single cheapest option in the segment, but it's decently equipped. The SE model adds alloy wheels and stiffer suspension, but several options on other subcompacts aren't available at any price. The Yaris doesn't offer a navigation system, leather upholstery, or heated seats, for example.
The 2013 Toyota Yaris fades into small-car anonymity on the outside, but the interior is straightforward, even stylish.
The 2014 Toyota Yaris is hardly a striking design from the outside. It can be viewed as a close-to-generic small hatchback, with a family resemblance to other Toyotas and tidy, serviceable lines. The front air dam has a slightly aggressive appearance, and this generation looks brawnier and more chiseled, with a pronounced side crease, large door handles, and taillamps that flare out from the body. The sporty SE model has a chunky rear bumper shield that gives it a rally-car look.
Inside, however, the cabin is far more stylish and practical than previous Yaris generations. The model has finally acquired an instrument cluster behind the steering wheel, where it should be. (Yaris models through 2011 had their instruments in a pod mounted centrally on the dashboard, which proved both distracting and confusing.)
The dash has horizontal, shelf-like lines and the controls are simple, cheerful, and easy to understand. There’s also a large cohort of built-in storage spaces, in the form of trays, cupholders, bins, and the like—including a long tray at the bottom of the dash on the passenger side.
The 2014 Toyota Yaris is an adequate performer, especially around town, but avoid the antiquated four-speed automatic.
The 2014 Toyota Yaris has a more muscular appearance than its predecessors, but that's not backed up by what's under the hood. The single engine option is a 106-horsepower 1.5-liter four-cylinder, which is very little power against competitors with direct-injected or turbocharged engines. Its light weight helps to offset the lack of oomph; at 2,300 pounds, it's one of the lighter subcompacts.
Performance is relatively tepid, and that's if you shift your own gears with the standard five-speed manual gearbox. You'll have to keep the revs up, but the car will move smartly around town, though it starts to run out of breath at highway speeds. Given the light weight, though, the Yaris isn't particularly fast--and it can feel distinctly underpowered when maximum acceleration is required.
That manual has one more ratio than the optional and aging four-speed automatic transmission, which delivers dramatic downshifts to widely spaced gears when asked for more power. The Yaris is the only subcompact carrying on with a four-speed automatic; competitors from Chevrolet, Ford, Honda, and Nissan have five- or six-speed automatics or continuously-variable transmissions (CVTs) and their better fuel-efficiency ratings reflect the newer technology. The automatic also seems to deliver more engine noise, somehow.
The Yaris has better electric power steering than many other Toyotas, which have historically been vague and numb. The steering in the Yaris stays on center at higher speeds but progressively increases the effort at lower speeds--making it fun in the city and confident on the highway. Suspension tuning is good, and the Yaris handles better than you might expect--though it's no German hot hatch, by a long shot.
The SE model has a stiffer suspension and thicker anti-sway bars, which deliver flatter handling without much impact on ride comfort, which is good. Brakes on all models work well, and the pedal is firmer and less mushy than in some competitors. Only the SE model has rear disc brakes.
The 2014 Toyota Yaris has a smooth ride and comfortable seats, but its cabin isn't very space-efficient and it can be noisy.
At age three, the 2014 Toyota Yaris is an improvement on its predecessor, but the subcompact category is a fast-moving one and competing cars are not standing still. Whether you get the three-door or the five-door hatchback, the Yaris is far from the largest car in the segment. Its size makes it maneuverable and easy to park in tight city streets, but rear-seat space suffers as a result.
The front seats have plenty of room, and feel more comfortable than those of the Nissan Versa. They're wide enough and have long enough lower cushions that even larger drivers won't feel like they're in a small car; we'd say they're spacious enough that they could be in a car one size larger, like the Toyota Corolla compact. The contouring and side support of the SE model's "exclusive sport seats" are especially nice.
The front seating position is high, so drivers sit upright, which also reduces the "small car" feel, but there's still plenty of front headroom. We did notice that the cloth fabric seems to act like a lint brush, trapping pet hair and tiny pieces of paper in a way that other seat fabrics didn't. The steering column tilts, but doesn't telescope, which may make it hard for some to find the ideal driving position.
The rear seats are cramped, lower to the floor, and a pair of full-size adults won't enjoy long road trips in them--although with some horse-trading between front and rear, it's possible to get sufficient legroom in the back. Access to the rear seats is far harder in the three-door model than the five-door, one reason that three-door body styles are a relative rarity in this category. The rear seatbacks fold forward, but the resulting cargo floor isn't completely flat--and it's higher than in some competitors, including the supremely flexible Honda Fit. Still, 15.3 cubic feet of cargo volume is respectable, and there's plenty of space for groceries and the like without folding down the seat.
The instrument panel is straightforward and, unlike previous Yaris generations, puts the gauges in front of the driver rather than in the center of the dashboard. Storage is good, with several well-placed bins, including one ahead and to the left of the driver that neatly holds a wallet or smartphone. The shallow shelf in front of the passenger, however, has no texture at the bottom, meaning small items constantly slide back and forth.
The Yaris has relatively good ride quality for its class, and Toyota's engineers have mostly eliminated the bobbing motions suffered in some small cars with short wheelbases. Suspension tuning is good, if not up to German roadholding standards, but the car suffers from wind and road noise at speed. The engine is coarse and harsh when revved above about 3,000 rpm, and the archaic four-speed automatic transmission doesn't have enough ratios to keep it quiet at speeds of 70 mph or more.
The 2014 Toyota Yaris gets excellent ratings and safety is one of its outstanding aspects.
The 2014 Toyota Yaris is now in its third year on the market; and based on the crash-test ratings available at this point, we might suggest that if safety if your top priority in a small car, there are better picks.
The Yaris five-door hatchback got decent but not stellar safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which gave it a four-star Overall rating, made up of four stars each for frontal impact and rollover, and five stars for side impact.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gives the 2014 Yaris five-door hatchback as Good (its highest rating) on its moderate-overlap front crash, side crash, roof crush, and head-restraint/seats tests. But on the newer small-overlap frontal impact test, it achieved a worrisome 'Marginal' rating--only one notch above Poor.
Neither agency rated the three-door Yaris separately.
The current Yaris has than nine airbags as standard. They include dashboard bags, front seat-mounted side bags, a knee airbag for the driver, and roll-sensing side bags for front and rear occupants. And with a stiffer body structure, the 2014 Yaris is likely to do better in real-world crashes than previous generations of the same car.
The 2014 Toyota Yaris has few frills and feels like an economy car, although audio and infotainment features are laudable.
The 2014 Toyota Yaris comes in three trim levels: the base L, the mid-level LE, and the sporty SE. With the expected feature list and overall sophistication of subcompacts growing yearly, technology is particularly important for the segment. One unusual feature is its single-wiper system, using just one large articulated arm rather than the pair found on most other vehicles. It worked very well.
Every model, even the base Yaris L, now comes with a six-speaker audio system that includes HD radio, satellite radio compatibility, iPod connectivity, USB port and audio input, automatic sound leveling, and both hands-free calling and audio streaming via Bluetooth. Pairing a phone took only 30 seconds, and the hands-free microphone handled road noise well. The HD radio had some of the best sound we’ve heard, without the compression or dithering that these systems can suffer from—although HD radio reception remains quite limited. Overall, it’s an impressive package in a car with a base price around $15,000.
The Yaris L also includes power locks, air conditioning, and intermittent wipers—although the windows are hand-cranked, a rarity these days. Moving up to the mid-level Yaris LE gets you power windows and mirrors, along with cruise control, audio controls on the steering wheel, and keyless entry.
At the top of the range, the Yaris SE includes 16-inch alloy wheels, sport-tuned suspension, six-way adjustable driver's seat, sport seat fabric, fog lamps, and appearance items like a rear spoiler, a chromed exhaust, a color-keyed grille.
The Yaris doesn’t offer some features, however, in any model. Those include a navigation system, leather upholstery, or heated seats. And to our surprise, we observed that the Yaris didn’t automatically turn on the air-conditioning compressor when you turn the dial to defog.
The 2014 Toyota Yaris has nowhere near the gas mileage of a Prius hybrid, but it's adquate around the city, if subpar on highways.
The 2014 Toyota Yaris has adequate although not stellar fuel economy for a subcompact. If you’re looking for the most fuel-efficient car in the category, that would be its sibling, the Toyota Prius C—at a price that starts just under $20,000.
The Yaris is rated at 33 mpg combined (30 mpg city, 37 mpg highway) with the five-speed manual gearbox, and 32 mpg combined (30 mpg city, 36 mpg highway) with its outmoded four-speed automatic transmission. It’s one of very few cars left on the market without a five- or six-speed automatic, and that’s likely one of the factors that prevent it from reaching the magic 40-mpg mark on highway fuel economy.
In our road test of the Yaris, we were able to average 30 mpg during a route comprising almost all city stop-and-go and short trips. But in highway use at a steady 70 mph, we could only average 35 mpg.
The Car Connection Consumer Review
Rate and Review your car for The Car Connection! Tell us your own ratings for a vehicle you own. Rate your car on Performance, Safety, Features and more.
For 2014 Toyota Yaris
Watch for blind spots
Comfort and Quality
Fuel Economy / MPG
Overal love this vehicle, it's comfy and compact yet spacious, however there is one issue that has been creating problems with blind spots on many occasions. The frame around the windshield on the drivers side... Overal love this vehicle, it's comfy and compact yet spacious, however there is one issue that has been creating problems with blind spots on many occasions. The frame around the windshield on the drivers side has been notorious for blocking my view of pedestrians while making a left turn. I'm as cautious as possible and do my best to make sure the way is clear, but if a pedestrian happens to be in that blind spot, I can't tell they're there until I start making the turn. My friend had an older model Yaris and has claimed that she had the same problem. I've never had this issue with my Nissan. + More »
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2014 Toyota Yaris 3-Door Liftback Automatic L (TMC/CBU Plant) (GS)
Good low priced reliable economy car
I've had the car for a year, bought it used , and so far it's been very reliable. Gas mileage is in the low 30s in city driving and 40 to 45 mpg hwy. at low highway speeds. The car is basic, but came with... I've had the car for a year, bought it used , and so far it's been very reliable. Gas mileage is in the low 30s in city driving and 40 to 45 mpg hwy. at low highway speeds. The car is basic, but came with automatic transmission, roll down windows, AM FM cd player, rear wiper. The car handles ok, but ride is rough, and the engine is adequate for power. Seats are firm and provide good support. The car is perfect for someone single or a couple without kids. There's not much luggage space with the rear seat up, but folded down it's like a small station wagon. Hatch back is handy for loading . It's a good commuter car, and the price is low. + More »
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Ethiopian crash similar to Indonesia accident: report
Tuesday March 19 2019
Mourners of victims of the Ethiopian Airlines crash react beside coffins during the mass funeral at Holy Trinity Cathedral in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on Sunday. The crash of Flight ET 302 minutes into its flight to Nairobi on March 10 killed 157 peo-ple onboard and caused the world-wide grounding of the Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft model involved in the disaster.
Ethiopia’s Transport minister, while declining to give details, tells journalists the parallels would be the “subject of further study during the investigation,” with a preliminary report issued in “30 days”
Addis Ababa. Black box data recovered from an Ethiopian Airlines plane that crashed last week show “clear similarities” with a recent crash in Indonesia of the same type of aircraft, Ethiopia’s Transport minister said on Sunday.
While declining to give details, Dagmawit Moges told journalists the parallels would be the “subject of further study during the investigation,” with a preliminary report issued in “30 days”.
The announcement came a week after Ethiopian Airlines flight 302 plummeted into a field southeast of Addis Ababa minutes into its flight to Nairobi, killing all 157 people onboard.
The disaster caused the worldwide grounding of the Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft involved after aviation regulators noticed similarities with the October crash of an Indonesian Lion Air 737 MAX 8 that killed all 189 passengers and crew. Both planes reportedly experienced erratic steep climbs and descents as well as fluctuating airspeeds before crashing shortly after takeoff.
Questions have honed in on an automated anti-stalling system introduced on the 737 MAX 8, designed to automatically point the nose of the plane downward if it is in danger of stalling. The pilots of Lion Air Flight 610 struggled to control the aircraft as the automated MCAS system repeatedly pushed the plane’s nose down following takeoff, according to the flight data recorder.
In the case of the Ethiopian flight, the black boxes have been handed to France’s BEA air safety agency, which is working with American and Ethiopian investigators to determine what went wrong.
While the cause remains to be determined, Boeing’s CEO Dennis Muilenburg on Sunday said the manufacturer is “finalizing its development of a previously-announced software update and pilot training revision” to address behaviour of the MCAS “in response to erroneous sensor inputs.”
Experts have questioned the US aviation safety certification process after learning that American pilots had lodged serious complaints about MCAS.
On Sunday the regulator, the Federal Aviation Administration, said it followed “standard” procedures, which “have consistently produced safe aircraft designs,” in certifying the 737 MAX.
The disaster left families in 35 nations bereaved. On Sunday Ethiopians gathered at Holy Trinity Cathedral in the capital to bury 17 of their citizens killed in the crash, including the eight-person flight crew. (AFP)
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Mandela biopic snubbed at Oscars
Despite a solid performance at the South African box office, Long Walk To Freedom has faltered overseas after a strong opening weekend - and now, the Mandela biopic more than 20 years in the making has also been snubbed at the Oscars
by Brett Petzer
Despite a solid performance at the South African box office, Long Walk To Freedom has faltered overseas after a strong opening weekend – and now, the Mandela biopic more than 20 years in the making has also been snubbed at the Oscars.
Long Walk To Freedom is an epic, ethically grounded film tableau with a universal message: exactly the type of film that has swept the Oscars in the past. Yet, despite concerted critical praise for the performances of Idris Elba (as Nelson Mandela) and a stellar Naomie Harris (as a complex and compelling Winnie Mandela), the film is struggling in American theatres and the number of screens showing it has fallen under the onslaught of a remarkably strong Christmas crop of blockbusters.
The Mandela biopic, some in the industry say, may even have suffered from the timing of the great man’s passing away. Viewers exposed to hours of Mandela factoids and wall-to-wall news coverage of Prisoner 46664’s life and legacy may well have felt sufficiently up-to-date on South African history to skip the film.
As it is, South Africa – where the film still played to standing ovations weeks after its first opening in the country – will have to be satisfied that, at long last, a South African story (perhaps the South African story) was told patiently and well, even if commercial considerations flattened much of the political nuance present in the original script. That, and a Golden Globe for Best Song for the inevitable Bono’s Ordinary Love.
Some of this year’s Oscar nominations, announced yesterday:
Best Supporting Actress: Sally Hawkins for Blue Jasmine, Jennifer Lawrence for American Hustle, Lupita Nyong’o for 12 Years a Slave, Julia Roberts for August: Osage County and June Squibb for Nebraska.
Best Actress: Amy Adams for American Hustle, Cate Blanchett for Blue Jasmine, Sandra Bullock for Gravity, Judi Dench for Philomena and Meryl Streep for August: Osage County.
Best Supporting Actor: Barkhad Abdi for Captain Phillips, Bradley Cooper for American Hustle, Michael Fassbender for 12 Years a Slave, Jonah Hill for The Wolf of Wall Street and Jared Leto for Dallas Buyers Club.
Best Actor: Christian Bale for American Hustle, Bruce Dern for Nebraska, Leonardo DiCaprio for The Wolf of Wall Street, Chiwetel Ejiofor for 12 Years a Slave and Matthew McConaughey for Dallas Buyers Club.
Best Director: American Hustle by David O. Russell, Gravity by Alfonso Cuarón, Nebraska by Alexander Payne, 12 Years a Slave by Steve McQueen and The Wolf of Wall Street by Martin Scorsese.
Skoonheid selected as SA’s Best Foreign Language film entry at Oscars
Morgan Freeman supports Mandela at Oscars
District 9 and Invictus nominated for key Oscars indicator
Tags: EntertainmentFilm & TVNelson MandelaOscarsSouth African Community in the UK
State Capture Inquiry: How Jacob Zuma almost implicated Cyril Ramaphosa
Jacob Zuma knows a lot that we don't: He hasn't exactly been an open book at the State Capture Inquiry,...
All Blacks name five uncapped players for Argentina clash
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Can Epsom Salts Help Your Garden Thrive?
Diane Macdonald / Getty Images
Gardeners have been using Epsom salts as a plant fertilizer or additive for generations, but is there any evidence there's a real benefit to the plants? There is little research to prove conclusively that Epsom salts have any effect on plants. There's little research done in general on homemade gardening fertilizers and pest controls. However, many seasoned gardeners cite their own gardens as proof that Epsom salts help certain plants grow stronger and produce better.
What Are Epsom Salts?
Epsom salts are a naturally occurring mineral, magnesium sulfate. They were first discovered in Epsom, England, where they got their name. You can find cartons and packages of Epsom salt in drug stores and groceries, either in the laxative aisle, the sore muscle section, or the bath section; Epsom salts have many uses.
What Are Epsom Salts Supposed to Do for Plants?
Epsom salts contain hydrated magnesium sulfate, two elements central to plant growth.
Sulfur (13%) is crucial to the inner workings of plants, but it is almost never lacking in the soil, thanks in part to synthetic fertilizers and acid rain.
Magnesium (10%) can become scarce in soil, usually because of erosion or depletion of the topsoil or a pH imbalance. Some plants, like lettuce and spinach, don’t mind going without magnesium. Others may exhibit symptoms such as leaf curling and stunted growth, although these symptoms could be attributed to more than one cause. Magnesium deficiency has even been blamed as a cause for bitter tomatoes, probably because the deficiency inhibits photosynthesis.
In general, magnesium plays a role in strengthening the plant cell walls, allowing the plant to take in the nutrients it needs. It also aids in seed germination, photosynthesis, and in the formation of fruits and seeds.
Do Epsom Salts Really Help Plants Grow?
Researchers have never been terribly impressed with the effects of Epsom salts on plants and some think it is wrong to continue encouraging it. Gardeners are a different story and the use of Epsom salts is a gardening tip passed down for generations. While many gardeners simply toss in a handful of Epsom salts at planting time, it really is wiser to test your soil first. Epsom salts are not going to cure an extreme magnesium deficiency and are generally considered more effective in acid soils, where magnesium is not easily accessed by plants. Three garden plants for which Epsom salts are most often recommended are tomatoes, peppers, and roses.
Epsom Salt for Roses
Rose growers, in particular, are strong advocates for using Epsom salts. They claim it not only makes the foliage greener and lusher, but it also produces more canes and more roses. The recommendation for applying Epsom salt to existing rose bushes is to either mix 1/2 cup of Epsom salts into the soil around the rose bush and water well or dissolve 1/2 cup of the salts in water and use to water the soil around rose bush. Do this in the spring, just as the buds are beginning to open.
For ongoing rose care, mix 1 tablespoon of Epsom salts per gallon of water and apply as a foliar spray. You may need several gallons of water for larger rose bushes and climbers.
A word of caution: Epsom salts sprayed on leaves can cause leaf scorch. Do not over apply and do not spray on hot, sunny days.
Epsom Salts for Tomatoes and Peppers
Tomatoes and peppers may show signs of magnesium deficiency late in the season when their leaves begin to yellow between the leaf veins and fruit production decreases. Whether you will get more and/or larger fruits will depend on many things besides applying Epsom salts, but using them before the plants start to decline, does seem to have some benefit.
Either mix in 1 tablespoon of Epsom salts into the soil at the bottom of the planting hole when setting out transplants or mix 1 tablespoon in a gallon of water and water the seedling.
Follow-up with a foliar spray of 1 tablespoon per gallon of water when the plants start to flower and again when the young fruits start to form. Test it on a few plants and see if you can tell the difference as the season goes along.
This is a home gardening remedy and there are as many formulas for application as there are home gardens. Some gardeners only add Epsom salts at planting time. Others like to water or foliar feed with Epsom salts every other week. When spraying directly on the leaves, use a more dilute solution, mixing only 1 teaspoon of salts per gallon of water, because it is not known for sure whether excess salts will build up in the soil or run off into the water supply. And finally, some gardeners simply use the Epsom salts when they remember.
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Understanding Blossom End Rot on Tomatoes
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Save Your Tomato Plants From These Common Diseases
How to Grow Roses in Pots
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Prevent Powdery Mildew on Plants With Baking Soda
Amur Maple Tree Plant Profile
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Drop it like a shot
Snoop Dogg to go head-to-head against John Daly in the battle for best Masters 2017 party
Hip hop legend will host his own Augusta Jam with 'speciality gin and juice' on the eve of year's first Major
Updated: 3 Apr 2017, 18:08
SNOOP DOGG will go head-to-head against John Daly in the battle for the best Masters party.
Two-time Major winner Daly is a regular in Augusta during the week of the year's first Major.
Snoop Dogg will be hosting this party on the eve of the MastersCredit: Twitter/theaugustajam
Tiger Woods and hip hop legend Snoop Dogg go way back as friendsCredit: Xposure
He pulls up in his motorhome and sells merchandise and greets fans at the local Hooters.
Get all the latest Masters 2017 predictions and news in the SunSport live blog
But he will have competition for the best bash in town when the hip hop legend hosts his own shindig on Wednesday evening.
Snoop Dogg's Augusta Jam Masters party is, of course, in no way officially aligned with the golf tournament.
John Daly is a regular during the week of the Masters, even though he doesn't playCredit: AP
The Wild Thing is a big hit with fans in town for the MastersCredit: AP
Always a great week to see the fans! C y'all in Augusta! pic.twitter.com/FrFhkzUWsZ
— John Daly (@PGA_JohnDaly) March 19, 2017
Snoop Dogg is a fan of sports in general and a big Norwich supporterCredit: PA
But the timing and use of green on the poster for the event show it has more than a little in common with the event.
And Augusta's gates are just a stone's throw away from the Country Club Dance Hall and Saloon, where the party is taking place.
According to its website, "Augusta Jam is a celebratory musical event held in the city of Augusta, Georgia during the popular Masters Golf Tournament and supports local Augusta community and their charitable initiatives.
"Augusta Jam merges the musical world of country and hip-hop music, proudly driven to unite cultures and celebrate diversity through golf and music".
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8.21 A messenger came from Thermopylae and told the Greeks the army had perished. The fleet now retreated by contingent, the Athenians last.
8.22 But Themistocles went around to places where there was drinkable water and left messages urging the Ionians in Xerxes' fleet to desert.
8.23 When the Persians heard the Greeks had pulled out, they sailed across to Euboea and captured towns in the northern part of the island.
8.24 Meanwhile Xerxes had hidden 19,000 of the 20,000 Persian dead at Thermopylae. Then he invited his sailors to come view the battlefield.
8.25 So many men went to see the corpses it was hard to find a boat. But Xerxes' trick didn't fool them: 1000 Persian dead vs. 4000 Greeks.
8.26 Some deserters from Arcadia came to Xerxes. He asked what the Greeks were up to. They told him the Olympics were being celebrated.
8.27 After Thermopylae the Thessalians sent a herald to the Phocians, who had defeated their infantry in battle not long before.
8.28 The Phocians had also defeated their cavalry. They put jars in covered pits. When the horses charged they fell and broke their legs.
8.29 The Thessalians, who had medized, said via messenger that if the Phocians paid them 50 talents they'd keep Xerxes away from Phocis.
8.30 The Phocians refused to give them any money, & they said they would not medize. They were the only ones in that area who did not do so.
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Friday Night, 2nd June 2017 at Simonds Stadium
The game has changed forever. The gap between kicks and handballs is closing by the season. The handball is about to become the most common action.
2010 AFL Prospectus [1]
Since the unveiling of the redeveloped Charles Brownlow Stand two weeks ago, Geelong has reignited their season with two stirring wins against the Bulldogs and the Power at their beloved Kardinia Park (currently known as Simonds Stadium). And to complete the trifecta of wins in front of their home fans, the Cats face the Crows this Friday Night. Another win against quality opposition and Geelong will be well on their way to re-establishing Kardinia Park as their impenetrable fortress.
Over the past decade, Geelong’s record at Kardinia Park has been remarkable. Since the beginning of 2007, they have won 70 of 78 games played there. This includes a 29 game winning streak between Round 3 2008 and Round 20 2011, at an average winning margin of 63 points. In that streak, only one team came close to toppling the Cats: the Adelaide Crows in Round 18 2009.
The Crows were gallant in defeat. It was a fascinating and enthralling game, and despite the final score line reading 93-91 in favour of the Cats, not a single point was scored in the last 5 minutes of the game as the match turned into a real arm wrestle. We all know about the roll call of stars Geelong had in 2009, when the 3x Premiers were at the peak of their powers. However looking back, the Crows also had a handy collection of players, led by the likes of Andrew McLeod and Tyson Edwards. And looking a little deeper, there are even a host of current day stars now plying their trade in different teams – Patrick Dangerfield, Kurt Tippett, Bernie Vince – and even a current day senior coach in Simon Goodwin. But the only Adelaide player who played that day and is named to play this week may surprise a few people. It was Andy Otten, playing his 20th senior game. Fast forward 8 years, and he is about to play only his 80th senior game, emphasising both his struggles with injury over the years and his perseverance at following his dream to play AFL football.
2009 was a year of change in AFL football, with the AFL Prospectus going as far as to say the game had changed forever due to the accelerated use of the handball. And at the forefront of this handball revolution were two clubs, Geelong and Adelaide. Before the 2009 season, no team had ever recorded more handballs than kicks across a season. But, Geelong under Mark Thompson and Adelaide under Neil Craig achieved exactly that. Geelong of course went on to win the premiership that year, and as is so often the case in football, there is a want to follow the leader. From the high of the Swans in 2005, with their kick-to-handball ratio of 1.67, year on year the handball was becoming more proficient in the premiership winning team until Geelong won the 2009 premiership with a kick-to-handball ratio of 0.99. Given the trend, it is no surprise there was an expectation that the handball was on the way to domination. So was the game changed forever?
Not quite. Figure-1 presents the kick to handball ratio of premiership winning teams between 2007 and 2016. And after the year on year increase in handball use, there was a re-balance after the 2009 season. The Collingwood premiership side of 2010 led this, but it was ultimately the Hawthorn dynasty of the 2013-15 that entrenched the importance of pressure and accurate kicking as the foundation of a successful side. But the Bulldogs of 2016, and their creation of the handball club, may just have swung the balance back in favour of the handball. The AFL Prospectus prediction may have come a decade too early.
Figure-1: Kick to Handball Ratio of Premiership Teams, 2007-2016
So what happened to the Geelong side of 2009 and their handball intensive game? Well after their success in 2009 they were found out a little in 2010, with the pressure game of Collingwood and St Kilda becoming the benchmark of the AFL. At the end of the 2009 season, both superstar Gary Ablett Jnr and coach Mark Thompson moved on and it appeared the Cat’s golden era was over. But with the arrival of Chris Scott and a fresh game plan, the Cats were revitalized and went on to win their 3rd premiership in 5 years in 2011. Their kick to handball ratio jumped to 1.28 in 2011 and didn’t dropped below 1.2 until this year. In 2017, the Cats under Chris Scott have gone full circle, playing a handball friendly game that the club has not seen since Thompson’s last year in 2010.
Figure-2: Geelong Kick to Handball Ratio, 2007-2017
And what about Adelaide? They regressed from their handball friendly game style in the years following that 2009 season, and with the arrival of Brenton Sanderson they went to the opposite extreme. In only three years, Adelaide had gone from the most handball happy team in the AFL (kick to handball ratio of 0.94) to the most kick happy team (kick to handball ratio of 1.63). This transformation was particularly surprising as Sanderson had fine-tuned his coaching credentials under Mark Thompson at Geelong between 2007 and 2010. Since that high they have slowly increased their handball use, and as per Geelong, in 2017 they are now playing a handball friendly game that the club has not seen since 2010.
Figure-3: Adelaide Kick to Handball Ratio, 2007-2017
So what about the AFL as a whole? Following the Bulldogs lead, most teams are handballing more than ever. Table-1 and Figure-1 present the kick to handball ratio rankings after the first 10 rounds of 2017. Geelong is leading the competition, marginally ahead of the Bulldogs. Adelaide sits in 6th spot. Carlton is off the chart with its kicking tendency, but of the prominent teams on the ladder after Round 10, it is only Port Adelaide and Richmond that appear to be bucking the trend with some success. Can the Tigers or the Power win the premiership and swing the momentum back towards the kick? Time will tell.
Table-1: 2017 Kick to Handball Ratio Rankings after Round 10
Figure-4: 2017 Kick to Handball Ratio Rankings after Round 10
Tip: As for Geelong and Adelaide this week – the fortress may have been re-built, but Adelaide is one of the few teams with the firepower to overwhelm the Cats there. Adelaide are unlikely to be able to swat aside the Cats as they have done to much of the rest of the competition this year, but I expect the Crows to record their first win at Kardinia Park since 2003.
Adelaide to win by 22 points
AFL, Geelong, Adelaide
Jun 9 AFL Round 12: Melbourne vs. Collingwood
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: Religion
TagBoatsBusinessFamilyFictionFoodFunnyLegal SystemNatural DisastersRaceReligion
ContributorShalom AuslanderIra GlassJonathan GoldsteinBrett MartinAlix Spiegel
Year2018201720162014201320122011201020092008200720062005200420032002200119991998199719961995
Shalom Auslander
Brett Martin
Alix Spiegel
322: Shouting Across the Divide
In the 1930s, the designer of the U.S. Supreme Court made a frieze to adorn the courtroom walls.
Act One: Which One of These Is Not Like the Others?
Serry and her husband's love story began in a place not usually associated with romance: The West Bank. That was where the couple met, fell in love and decided to get married.
321: Sink or Swim
Act Three: If This Ark Is A Rockin', Don't Come A Knockin'
Jonathan Goldstein retells the original sink-or-swim story, the one about Noah and the flood. Jonathan is host of the CBC radio show WireTap.
318: With Great Power
Act Three: Waiting For Joe
When you're powerless, you think a lot about the powerful figures above you. Especially when their actions just make no sense.
311: A Better Mousetrap (2006)
Act Three: What Would Fill-in-the-blank Do?
Reporter Brett Martin tries to use the tools of modern marketing to invent a new religion...one that would serve all the Americans who don't associate with any particular organized religion. It's a lot of people: Forty-three percent of the country says they don't consider themselves religious (according to a 2002 USA Today/Gallup poll).
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Incendiary balloon from Gaza lands in Israel for 1st time since truce agreed
Live updates (closed)
Israel complained to Russia for inviting Hamas leader to Moscow — report
Russia said to dismiss request, saying that Jerusalem is also holding talks with Palestinian terror group
By Michael Bachner 18 December 2018, 2:18 pm 0 Edit
Russian President Vladimir Putin (left) with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, as they prepare to deliver joint statements, after a meeting and a lunch in the Israeli leader's Jerusalem residence, June 25, 2012. (AP/Jim Hollander, Pool/File)
Airbnb's Head of Global Policy and Public Affairs Chris Lehane (2L) meets with Samaria Regional Council chairman Yossi Dagan (2R) in the northern West Bank on December 18, 2018. (Samaria Regional Council)
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman attends the Future Investment Initiative conference, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on October 23, 2018. (AP/Amr Nabil)
Saudi Arabian journalist Jamal Khashoggi at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, January 29, 2011. (AP /Virginia Mayo, File)
A picture taken on July 14, 2018 shows smoke plumes rising following an Israeli air strike in Gaza City. (AFP / MAHMUD HAMS)
This February 13, 2015 file photo shows British musician Roger Waters of Pink Floyd as he talks to members of the media outside the US embassy in central London. (AFP PHOTO / LEON NEAL)
The Times of Israel liveblogged Tuesday’s events as they unfolded.
IDF’s ‘roof-knocking’ tactic killed two Gazan teenagers in July — report
Israel’s “roof-knocking” military tactic for warning Gazans of an impending airstrike to spare civilian lives allegedly killed two Palestinian teenagers in Gaza earlier this year, the New York Times reports.
The US paper cites a new report by rights groups B’Tselem and Forensic Architecture, which concludes that two teenage boys who were on the roof of a high-rise building in Gaza City on July 14 were in fact killed by the warning shot, which is designed to be loud but not lethal.
The report says the IDF released an incomplete video of the strike that didn’t show the boys’ deaths.
The military denies doctoring the video, saying the first visual evidence of the teenagers’ presence on the roof was today with the release of the new report.
Rona Ramon said to request cremation to spare family another funeral
Rona Ramon, the widow of Israeli astronaut Ilan Ramon who died of cancer yesterday, reportedly asked to be cremated to spare her children from having to bury another family member.
According to the Ynet news site, Ramon before her death left instructions that no funeral be held for her, and that her body be cremated.
The 54-year-old passed away after a year-long battle with pancreatic cancer. She is survived by her parents and three children: Tal, Yiftah and Noa.
Her husband, Israel’s first and only astronaut, was killed in the 2003 Columbia space shuttle disaster. Six years later, their son Asaf, who had followed in his father’s footsteps to become an Israeli air force fighter pilot, was killed in a training accident.
Ramon reportedly said at Asaf’s funeral that he was taking her spot at the cemetery.
Nearly 2,000 jailed for life since 2016 coup: Turkey state media
Nearly 2,000 people have been sentenced to life in prison since the July 2016 attempted overthrow of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Turkish state media reports.
State news agency Anadolu says some 1,934 suspects have been told by the courts that they will spend the rest of their life in jail.
Of these, 978 people were jailed for life, Anadolu reports, while 956 were sentenced to aggravated life imprisonment, which has replaced the death penalty in Turkey and carries harsher conditions than normal life imprisonment convictions.
A total of 239 out of 289 cases opened after the failed coup have been closed. The remaining 50 include 18 in Ankara and nine in Istanbul, Anadolu adds.
Turkish Muslim cleric Fethullah Gulen, sits at his residence in Saylorsburg, Pennsylvania in 2014 (AP Photo/Selahattin Sevi, File)
Ankara accuses the US-based Muslim preacher Fethullah Gulen of ordering the 2016 coup attempt and refers to his movement as the “Fethullah Terrorist Organization.”
Gulen strenuously denies Turkey’s claims and followers insist his movement promotes peace and secular education, ridiculing the description of themselves as a terror group.
More than 3,050 people in all have been convicted over links to Gulen, with 1,123 given different jail sentences ranging from over a year to 20 years in prison.
Vatican committee: Church credibility at risk over sex abuse
Organizers of a Vatican summit on sex abuse prevention are warning that the credibility of the Catholic Church is in jeopardy over the abuse scandal and are urging participants to meet with victims to hear their pain firsthand.
In a letter sent to the presidents of bishops’ conferences worldwide, organizers say the church must develop a “comprehensive and communal response” to the crisis, and that the first step is “acknowledging the truth of what has happened.”
Pope Francis invited the church leaders to the February 21-24 summit to respond to the latest eruption of the scandal in the US, Chile and elsewhere. The Vatican said the summit would focus on three main areas: responsibility, accountability and transparency.
Organizers wrote: “Each of us needs to own this challenge.”
Defying Roger Waters, Pink Floyd cover band to perform in Israel
After announcing the cancellation of three planned shows in Israel following pressure from BDS activist Roger Waters, the UK Pink Floyd Experience cover band will come to Israel for concerts on January 4, 5 and 6, Israeli production company EGOEast Productions confirms.
The band will host Israeli Pink Floyd tribute band Echoes as part of performances in Beersheba, Tel Aviv and Haifa.
— Jessica Steinberg
UK court jails neo-Nazi couple who named child after Hitler
A British court sentences a fanatical neo-Nazi couple who named their baby son after Adolf Hitler to prison for belonging to a group banned under anti-terror laws.
Adam Thomas is sentenced to six and a half years in prison and his Portuguese partner Claudia Patatas to five years in prison by judge Melbourne Inman at Birmingham Crown Court.
Thomas, 22, and Patatas, 38, are among six people sentenced for membership of National Action, which in 2016 became the first right-wing group to be banned under anti-terror laws.
In his sentencing, Inman says the group has “horrific” goals.
National Action wants “the overthrow of democracy in this country by serious violence and murder, and the imposition of a Nazi-style state which would eradicate whole sections of society by such violence and mass-murder,” Inman says.
Adam Thomas and Claudia Patatas, accused neo-Nazis who named their baby after Hitler. (West Midlands Police via BBC)
The judge says the couple, who gave their child the middle name “Adolf,” has “a long history of violent racist beliefs.”
“You acted together in all you thought, said and did, in the naming of your son and the disturbing photographs of your child by symbols of Nazism and the Ku Klux Klan.”
Photographs recovered from their house showed Thomas cradling his newborn son while wearing the Ku Klux Klan white robe.
The couple’s close friend, Darren Fletcher, who admitted National Action membership before trial, is also jailed for five years for the same crime.
Fletcher, 28, taught his daughter to give a Nazi salute.
Daniel Bogunovic, 27, a leading member of National Action’s Midlands chapter, is sentenced to six years and four months.
Two other men, cyber security worker Joel Wilmore, 24, and van driver Nathan Pryke, 26, are also sent to prison.
Trump accuses Facebook, Twitter, Google of Democrat bias
US President Donald Trump takes a swipe at tech giants Facebook, Twitter and Google, accusing them of being biased in favor of opposition Democrats.
“Facebook, Twitter and Google are so biased toward the Dems it is ridiculous!” Trump tweeted. “Twitter, in fact, has made it much more difficult for people to join @realDonaldTrump. They have removed many names & greatly slowed the level and speed of increase. They have acknowledged-done NOTHING!”
Trump’s tirade follows a detailed US Senate report on Russian troll farms that disrupted the 2016 US presidential election via social media.
Court extends remand of suspect in beating of Arab bus driver
The Jerusalem District Court extends the remand of a suspect in last week’s brutal beating of an Arab bus driver in the West Bank settlement of Modiin Illit by one day.
The decision overturns yesterday’s ruling by a lower court that said the suspect can be released to house arrest.
Putin claims Russia’s new weapons have no foreign equivalent
Russian President Vladimir Putin says the country’s new weapons have no foreign equivalents and will help ensure its security for decades to come.
Speaking during a meeting with the top military brass in Moscow, Putin specifically mentions the new Kinzhal hypersonic missile and the Avangard hypersonic glide vehicle, saying they have significantly bolstered Russia’s military capability.
Kinzhal has already been commissioned by the military. Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu says the aircraft carrying missiles have flown 89 patrol missions this year.
Shoigu says the Avangard will enter service with the military next year.
Putin says Russia will have to respond to the planned US withdrawal from the 1987 Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty. He reaffirms a strong denial of Washington’s claim that Russia has violated the pact and blames the US for breaking it.
Meeting Abbas, Jordanian king accuses Israel of causing ‘escalation’ in West Bank
Jordanian King Abdullah meets Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas and accuses Israel of carrying out an “escalation” of violence in the West Bank, to Jordan’s state-run Petra news agency.
Abdullah also calls on the international community to pressure Israel to halt its actions in the West Bank, the Petra report adds.
“His majesty stressed the necessity that the international community bear its responsibilities regarding the Israeli escalation and exert all forms of pressure on Israel to halt these measures that will only lead to more violence,” it says.
Hussein al-Sheikh, a top PA official, yesterday told Palestine TV, the official PA television channel, that Jordan and Egypt had exerted pressure on Israel to stop “the dangerous escalation” in the West Bank.
His Majesty King Abdullah II meets with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, affirms need to end stalemate in peace process, and stresses #Jordan's rejection of Israel's unilateral policies pic.twitter.com/Fqz96ovsUz
— RHC (@RHCJO) December 18, 2018
A string of terror attacks took place in the West Bank and Jerusalem last week, resulting in the deaths of two Israeli soldiers and a baby boy who was delivered prematurely after his pregnant mother was shot, as well as leaving several others injured.
In the wake of the attacks and amid manhunts for suspects, Israeli security forces killed the alleged gunman from October’s Barkan terror attack and partially demolished his home, and killed the man believed to have been behind the shooting which led to the baby’s death. They have also raided Ramallah several times and demolished the home of a Palestinian accused of killing an Israeli soldier in May.
Meanwhile, settlers lobbed rocks at Palestinians driving along Route 60, the West Bank’s main thoroughfare, and in some cases, targeted homes in Palestinian villages.
— Adam Rasgon
Israel-Saudi rapprochement said to face setback due to Khashoggi murder fallout
The ongoing secret rapprochement with Saudi Arabia has reportedly been hindered by the international backlash over the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, the Wall Street Journal reports.
The US-based writer was killed on October 2 at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, with the CIA concluding Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was at least aware of the plan.
In the international fallout, two key aides to the crown prince have lost their jobs.
Citing several unnamed officials “familiar with the matter,” the WSJ report says that both sacked officials — Saud al-Qahtani and Ahmed al-Assiri — were deeply involved in Riyadh’s outreach to Israel, which has now faced a setback.
Turkey Seeks Arrest of MBS Allies: Assiri, Qahtani https://t.co/SFYErcndVB#Middle_East pic.twitter.com/f3khpsxMAh
— Almanarnews English (@AlmanarEnglish) December 5, 2018
Qahtani, a media adviser, reportedly ordered Saudi press to soften Israel’s image as an enemy, and his subordinate Assiri made several secret visits to the Jewish state — making him the highest-ranked Saudi official to visit the country. The discussions were said to focus on purchasing Israeli surveillance software.
The report adds that Mossad chief Yossi Cohen met Saudi officials several times during the past year. It says Israel, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates regularly share intelligence information with one another on Iran and on transit through the Red Sea.
Teenager dies after he is hit by a bus in Tel Aviv
A 17-year-old boy dies after being hit by a bus on Jerusalem Boulevard in Tel Aviv.
According to Hebrew-language media reports, the victim was riding an electrical bike.
He was taken to Wolfson hospital in Holon, but after attempting to save his life the medical staff pronounces his death.
מת מפצעיו רוכב האופניים החשמליים שנפגע מאוטובוס בתל אביב https://t.co/wRIn96qLTq pic.twitter.com/vAd1RMPpS7
— Dotan Gabay – דותן גבאי (@mdg1306) December 18, 2018
Police recommend Hadera mayor stand trial for corruption
Police recommend indicting Hadera Mayor Zvi Gendelman for fraud and breach of trust, along with a contractor with whom he had an alleged illicit electoral deal.
Gendelman is suspected of working in favor of contractor Sammy Levy when he was a mayoral candidate, in exchange for Levy’s support in the vote. The two didn’t report their ties to authorities as required, police say in a statement.
Conclusions in the investigation, conducted by the Lahav 433 anti-corruption unit, will now be handed to the state prosecution, which will make a final decision on whether to press charges.
European soccer organization opens probe of Chelsea over anti-Semitic chants
UEFA has launched an investigation into alleged anti-Semitic chants during Chelsea’s Europa League tie at Vidi, the governing body of European announces.
Minutes into the Europa League match in Budapest on December 13, which ended 2-2, a vocal minority of Chelsea fans were heard allegedly singing a derogatory chant about Tottenham Hotspur supporters, featuring anti-Semitic language.
Chelsea condemned the chanting and promised to take the strongest possible action against any supporters found to be guilty of singing racist songs.
The incident in Hungary came a matter of days after four fans were suspended for abusing Manchester City’s Raheem Sterling.
The England forward later issued a statement accusing the British media of fueling racism in the way it reports certain stories about black players.
Chelsea banned four supporters pending an internal inquiry.
The results of UEFA’s investigation will be published by the middle of January.
Trump directs Pentagon to create ‘Space Command’
US President Donald Trump orders the creation of “Space Command,” a new organizational structure within the Pentagon that will have overall control of military space operations.
“I direct the establishment, consistent with United States law, of United States Space Command as a functional Unified Combatant Command,” Trump says in a memo to Defense Secretary Defense Jim Mattis.
The new command is separate from Trump’s goal to build an entirely new branch of the military called “Space Force,” but could be a step in that direction.
Israeli baby hurt as rocks hurled at car in West Bank
A nine-month-old baby is lightly wounded as rocks are pelted at an Israeli car near the Palestinian town of Halhul in the West Bank, Hebrew-language media reports.
The baby is taken to Shaare Zedek Medical Center in Jerusalem for treatment.
Poll shows Hamas leader Haniyeh would win Palestinian elections
A public opinion poll shows that Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas would lose to the leader of the Islamic terror group Hamas if elections were held today.
The poll conducted by prominent pollster Khalil Shikaki and released today shows that Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh would win with 49 percent to Abbas’ 42 percent.
Shikaki links the results to what is perceived as a Hamas “win” in its latest confrontation with Israel and dissatisfaction with Abbas’ government, particularly over a new social security law.
The poll interviewed 1,200 people in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip and had a 3 percent margin of error.
Abbas’ Fatah faction and Hamas are bitter rivals. Palestinian elections were last held in 2006 and have been repeatedly delayed since.
Settler leader hosts top Airbnb official in effort to overturn West Bank boycott
Airbnb’s Head of Global Policy and Public Affairs Chris Lehane meets with Samaria Regional Council chairman Yossi Dagan in the northern West Bank.
The sit-down comes a day after the vacation rental giant rejected reports that it had walked back its decision to remove listings in Israeli settlements.
Dagan brings Lehane’s delegation to the Barkan Industrial Park where two Israelis were killed in an October terror attack. The settler leader says the Airbnb official was impressed by the continued operation of the site’s factories where both Israeli and Palestinians are employed.
“I was pleased to hear that they opposed the boycott movement. We also agreed that they would consider my request [to walk back their decision] and that the dialogue would continue,” Dagan says in a statement.
— Jacob Magid
Haley says Trump’s peace plan detailed, takes advantage of ‘new technology’
The US ambassador to the United Nations, Nikki Haley, has given a hint of the Trump administration’s peace plan for Israel and the Palestinians, saying it’s long, takes advantage of new technology, and has a lot both sides will like and things they won’t like.
Nikki Haley speaks at a UN Security Council Meeting on the Middle East on November 19, 2018. (Courtesy)
Haley says Israelis and Palestinians as well as countries around the world have a choice: They can focus on the parts they dislike, which she says means returning “to the failed status quo of the last 50 years.” Or they can focus on parts they like and encourage peace negotiations to move forward.
The ambassador tells the UN Security Council that “both sides would benefit greatly from a peace agreement, but the Palestinians would benefit more, and the Israelis would risk more.”
Trump agrees to shut down his embattled charity
US President Donald Trump has agreed to shut down his personal charity, the Trump Foundation, which has been accused of engaging in “persistently illegal conduct,” the New York attorney general says.
Attorney General Barbara Underwood says the Foundation will be dissolved and its remaining assets distributed to other charities.
“This is an important victory for the rule of law, making clear that there is one set of rules for everyone,” Underwood says in a statement.
Arab League urges Australia, Brazil to shift stance on Jerusalem
The Arab League adopts a resolution calling on Australia and Brazil to “abide by international law” concerning the status of Jerusalem.
The bloc decides to dispatch a “high-ranking delegation” to Brazil and Australia to inform officials there on the need to “abide by international law” concerning the city.
The decision is taken at an extraordinary meeting at the League’s Cairo headquarters attended by delegates from member countries.
The pan-Arab body also calls on the UN Security Council to “assume its responsibilities by putting pressure on Israel… and stop its aggression against the Palestinian people.”
In November, Brazil’s president-elect Jair Bolsonaro announced his intention to move his country’s embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.
And on Saturday Australia announced its recognition of west Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, although a contentious embassy shift from Tel Aviv will not occur until a peace settlement is achieved.
Both Israel and the Palestinians claim Jerusalem as their capital.
For the first time since a truce was agreed last month with terror group Hamas which rules Gaza, an incendiary balloon lands in Israeli territory.
The balloon was discovered this morning by IDF troops near the Gaza border, attached to an improvised explosive device, Hebrew-language media reports.
The bomb didn’t detonate and the balloon — which was reportedly tracked in the air by the forces — caused no injuries or damage.
UN Mideast envoy condemns Palestinian terror attacks, Israeli settlements
The UN envoy to the Middle East, Nickolay Mladenov, condemns last week’s West Bank terror attack in Ofra in which a pregnant woman was seriously injured and her baby died, as well as Hamas’s rocket launches at Israeli cities.
“There is no justification for terror and I call on all to condemn it,” he tells the UN Security Council. “The indiscriminate launching of rockets against Israeli towns and villages violates international law, placing civilians under imminent threat.”
Mladenov also criticizes Israel for apparently shooting a Palestinian man in the West Bank while he was walking away, and for allegedly killing a 4-year-old boy on the Gaza border.
The indiscriminate launching of rockets against #Israeli towns and villages violates international law, placing civilians under imminent threat. @UNSCO_MEPP #UNSC pic.twitter.com/iOSuUkSWIV
— Nickolay E. MLADENOV (@nmladenov) December 18, 2018
The envoy says he “acknowledges” Israeli efforts to prevent settler violence against Palestinian civilians, and says Hamas has an “obligation to protect children from violence and ensure that they are never put in harm’s way.”
He slams Israeli settlements, saying they are “illegal under international law, undermine hope among the population, trust between the parties, and the two-state solution itself.”
Mladenov particularly notes the impending demolition of the Bedouin hamlet Khan al-Ahmar deemed illegal by Israel, saying such a move “could amount to a serious violation of Israel’s obligations under international law.”
Chelsea chairman blames ‘unpleasant’ anti-Semitic minority for shaming club
Bruce Buck, chairman of British soccer club Chelsea, has blamed a “deeply unpleasant but vocal minority” for shaming the club’s fans in an open letter following recent incidents of abuse.
The Premier League club and police opened investigations after alleged racist abuse was directed at Manchester City’s Raheem Sterling by a section of home supporters at Stamford Bridge earlier this month.
Chelsea suspended four supporters pending an investigation.
And minutes into last week’s Europa League clash with Vidi in Budapest, a vocal minority of Chelsea fans were heard singing a derogatory chant about Tottenham supporters, featuring anti-Semitic language.
European governing body UEFA has announced it launched an investigation into the chants, with the results due to be published next month.
“After recent events, I wanted to take this opportunity to reach out to our community and fans to condemn the actions of a few mindless individuals at some of our recent matches,” Buck says in the letter published on the club’s website.
In this February 13, 2018, file photo, Chelsea FC chairman Bruce Buck speaks during the Qatar National Sports Day 2018 event at Stamford Bridge Stadium, in London. (AP Photo/Tim Ireland, File)
“These actions are unacceptable and unwelcome both in our club and in football.”
“A deeply unpleasant but vocal minority which refuses to join us in the 21st century has shamed the great majority of our decent, well-behaved fans.”
He says the club “must all come together to stamp out these ugly scenes,” listing a number of initiatives that Chelsea have been involved in to tackle discrimination.
“If you do not share these values, this is not the club for you,” he says.
“We must not allow a small minority of fans to bring further embarrassment upon us, and will continue to take the strongest possible action against them.”
UN Security Council to discuss Hezbollah tunnels on Wednesday
The UN Security Council will convene tomorrow to discuss Israeli accusations against the Hezbollah terror group over attack tunnels discovered by the IDF on the Israel-Lebanon border, Israel’s UN missions says in a statement.
The discussion, requested by Israel and the United States, will begin at 10 a.m. local time (5 p.m. Israel time).
Israel has so far uncovered four passages crossing into Israel from Lebanon, and the UNIFIL peacekeeper force has confirmed their existence and acknowledged they violate UN resolution 1701 adopted at the end of the 2006 Second Lebanon War.
“It is time for the Security Council to employ all its means against the terror infrastructure of Hezbollah, which is continuing to strengthen under the Lebanese government,” Israel’s UN envoy Danny Danon says in a statement.
Dutch supermarket dismisses anti-Semitism claim as misunderstanding
The Netherlands’ largest supermarket chain dismisses as a misunderstanding footage published Friday by bloggers showing an employee of the Albert Heijn chain laughing as a man wearing a kippah walks by.
The bloggers, who run the Bondgenoten YouTube channel, filmed the reactions of passersby to one of them wearing a kippah. At the supermarket near a heavily Muslim part of Utrecht, a worker laughs as the blogger walks past them. A security guard asks, “What are you doing?” and the employee replies: “Mocking.”
An Albert Heijn spokesperson writes on Twitter that “the employees shared an internal joke” before the blogger walked in. “It’s a coincidence that the filmmakers misinterpreted. Very annoying,” the spokesperson adds.
Elsewhere at the same shopping center, the bloggers filmed two men shouting “cancer Jew” at them, then denying shouting it and telling them to “get lost.” In the city center, a passerby told the blogger: “Dirty homo.”
In a recent survey on anti-Semitism among 16,395 European Jews in 12 countries, the Netherlands had the highest number of respondents — 11 percent — saying they always avoid wearing a kippah in public due to safety concerns. Less than a third of Dutch respondents said they never avoid wearing a kippah, with 22 percent saying they avoid doing so frequently.
Israel said to protest to Russia over invitation for Hamas leader
Israel has voiced strong protest to Russia for inviting Hamas politburo leader Ismail Haniyeh to Moscow, Channel 10 reports.
During the past two weeks, Israeli envoy to Russia Gary Koren is said to have complained to senior Russian officials about the invite, while Netanyahu hasn’t been invited to meet Putin since Syrian air defenses downed a Russian plane when attempting to hit an Israeli jet. Moscow has blamed Israel over the incident.
Senior Israeli officials are quoted saying Israel has made similar protests to Russia’s embassy in Israel.
Haniyeh’s invite hasn’t yet matured into an actual meeting.
Moscow reportedly dismissed the Israeli protests, saying Jerusalem is also holding talks with the Palestinian terror group.
Sentencing of ex-Trump aide Michael Flynn postponed
US President Donald Trump’s former national security chief Michael Flynn receives a postponement of his sentencing after an angry judge threatens to give him a stiff sentence.
Russia collusion investigation head Robert Mueller had proposed Flynn receive no jail time for lying to investigators about his Moscow ties.
But Judge Emmet Sullivan says Flynn has behaved in a “traitorous” manner and gives the former three-star general the option of receiving a potentially tough prison sentence now — or wait until Mueller’s investigation is closer to being completed to better demonstrate his cooperation with investigators.
Minister bans agriculture imports from PA despite security officials’ opposition
Agriculture Minister Uri Ariel (Jewish Home) has ordered an indefinite freeze on imports of Palestinian agricultural goods into Israel, Hadashot TV news reports.
The decision, taken by Ariel without consultation with other government bodies or security officials, could cost the beleaguered Palestinian economy as much as NIS 1 million ($265,000) a day.
Agriculture Minister Uri Ariel attends a Jewish Home faction at the Knesset in Jerusalem, December 11, 2017. (Yonatan Sindel/Flash90)
The move has drawn criticism from security officials who fear a further economic squeeze of the Palestinians could lead to an escalation in violence amid efforts to restore calm to the West Bank after a spike in terror attacks over the past week.
According to Ariel, the decision is a response to a Palestinian Authority order to meat purveyors to stop buying lamb from Israeli suppliers, an order that violates standing agreements between Israel and the PA.
Ariel’s move can be overturned by the government.
Israel said to supplies funds — via Mossad — to protect Jewish communities abroad
An Israeli ministry has recently supplied the Mossad spying with more than NIS 10 million ($2.66 million) to fund security for Jewish communities around the world, the Kan public broadcaster reports.
Citing “officials,” the report says the money handed out by the unnamed ministry is intended to support local security bodies.
The report points out that such funding could be diplomatically sensitive — since it could be perceived as Israeli interference in internal affairs of foreign countries.
Paris woman’s nose broken in alleged anti-Semitic assault
A French-Jewish woman tells police that two teenagers robbed and hit her on a main street of Paris suburb, hurling anti-Semitic insults.
The woman, aged 20, says in her complaint to police that the incident happened yesterday in the heavily Jewish suburb of Sarcelles north of Paris, the National Bureau for Vigilance Against Anti-Semitism, or BNVCA, writes in a statement.
Prying her cellphone out of her hands, the two assailants, whom she says were black, hit her face while saying: “Are you afraid, you Jewess?” she tells police. A passerby intervened, allowing the woman to flee to her home with a broken nose and bloody face, the report says. She was on her way home from work, she also says. The two alleged assailants fled the scene. BNVCA calls on police to investigate and apprehend the suspects.
France has seen an increase of 69 percent in the number of anti-Semitic incidents in the first 10 months of 2018 over the corresponding period last year, Prime Minister Edouard Philippe said last month.
In addition to anti-Semitic assaults motivated purely by hate, French Jews have reported an increase in the number of incidents also featuring robbery. Some of the victims were selected because they are Jewish, while others began as random criminal acts before escalating into violent assaults after the perpetrators discovered the Jewish identity of their victims.
Belgian premier resigns as coalition comes under pressure
Belgian Prime Minister Charles Michel has resigned amid pressure on his government after the biggest party in his coalition quit over his support for the UN global compact on migration.
Michel tells Belgian lawmakers that “I am taking the decision to offer my resignation. I am now going to see the king” to inform him.
The lawmakers were demanding that he submit his new minority government to a confidence vote, but Michel had so far refused and a confrontation seemed likely this week.
Three people injured in shooting in northern Israel, motive unclear
Three people are wounded in a shooting at a gas station near Kibbutz Megiddo in northern Israel.
The motive is unclear.
The Magen David Adom ambulance service says paramedics are treating two people who were seriously injured, and another person who is in moderate condition.
Trump’s Mideast envoy slams Abbas’s Fatah for ‘vile’ glorification of terrorists
US President Donald Trump’s special envoy to the Middle East peace process, Jason Greenblatt, slams the ruling Palestinian faction in the West Bank, Fatah, over its support for two terrorists who killed Israeli civilians.
In a tweet, Greenblatt shares a statement from Fatah — which is headed by PA President Mahmoud Abbas — in which Ashraf Na’alowa and Salih Barghouti are hailed as “heroes.” Greenblatt brands the statement “disgraceful, vile and contemptible.”
Shame on Fatah! What part of killing a baby or shooting your co-workers is heroic? This is disgraceful, vile and contemptable. pic.twitter.com/KFLCGodbpF
— Jason D. Greenblatt (@jdgreenblatt45) December 18, 2018
Na’alowa killed two Israeli coworkers at the Barkan Industrial Park in October. Barghouti committed last week’s shooting attack near the West Bank settlement of Ofra in which a pregnant woman — along with six others — was seriously injured and her baby later died. Both were killed last week in shootouts with IDF forces attempting to arrest them.
Megiddo shooting likely a botched robbery — reports
Reports in Hebrew-language media suggest the shooting near Kibbutz Megiddo is a criminal incident and not a terror attack, likely an attempted robbery that went awry.
Reports now say there are five casualties, four of whom are seriously injured and another in moderate condition.
Large police forces are on their way to the scene.
Israel-Saudi Arabia relations
Israel-Russia relations
Jewish ‘Godmother of Silicon Valley’ offers advice for raising successful people
By Renee Ghert-Zand
In her new bestseller, journalism teacher Esther Wojcicki, mother of three superstar daughters — including two of the top CEOs in tech — says independence must be taught early on
Doubling down, Trump says liberal Democrats ‘hate Israel with unbridled passion’
Defending apparent call for Reps. Ocasio-Cortez, Omar, Pressley, and Tlaib to ‘go back’ to countries they ‘came from,’ Trump says Democratic party ‘sticking up’ for Israel haters
Leave the US, Trump tells liberal Democratic congresswomen
By Calvin Woodward
Calling for two-state solution, Biden says ‘the occupation is a real problem’
House Democrats who tangled with leader not backing down
By JUANA SUMMERS
Jim Mustian, Michael R. Sisak and Jennifer Peltz
Inside Epstein network, layer upon layer to protect the boss
Federal prosecutors describe the billionaire financier as the kingpin at the head of a team of recruiters and enablers that helped hide his sexual abuse of dozens of underage girls
By Thomas URBAIN
Israeli naval ship crosses into Lebanese waters — report
UNIFIL peacekeepers said to warn Lebanon of IDF vessel breaching disputed maritime border near Rosh Hanikra
Senior Hamas official calls on members of Palestinian diaspora to kill Jews
By Adam Rasgon
Fathi Hamad, known for his fiery rhetoric, also appears to urge Palestinians in the West Bank to stab Israelis; another Hamas official tries to distance terror group from remarks
Egyptian delegation meets with Palestinian factions to prevent new Gaza flareup
Israel said to promise Gaza medicine, goods in return for continued calm
Police find body believed to be US rabbi who jumped in ocean to save student
Reuven Bauman ‘acted heroically’ when he plunged into choppy Virginia waters after youngster struggled to return to shore in area where swimming is prohibited
US Coast Guard calls off search for rabbi who jumped in ocean to save student
Virginia rabbi missing after jumping in ocean to save student
Cop who shot dead Ethiopian-Israeli expected to be freed Monday
Investigators said unlikely to request extension of house arrest at remand hearing for officer who killed Solomon Tekah
Daycare teacher sentenced to 17 years for choking toddler to death
By Stuart Winer
2 more arrested over torching of home of daycare manager accused of child abuse
Barcelona’s oldest house is now a Jewish cultural center
By Alan Grabinsky
PM’s son screamed that Bezeq owner wasn’t honoring alleged graft deal – report
Yair Netanyahu reportedly had to be escorted out of room by his lawyer after interrupting official meeting
Netanyahu taps linguist and LGBTQ rights activist as foreign media spokesperson
Netanyahu set to become Israel’s longest-serving PM on July 20
Shaked said to be pow-wowing with far-right Otzma Yehudit
Itamar Ben Gvir says he has held ‘good meetings’ with the former justice minister, in possible bid for broad right-wing merger
PM said to offer to tap Bennett as UN envoy if he pulls out of election race
Former Peace Now chief joins Ehud Barak’s party
By Raoul Wootliff
Education minister says his comments on gay conversion therapy were distorted
By Michael Bachner and Jacob Magid
Amid outrage and calls for his dismissal, Rafi Peretz insists he ‘does not support’ controversial practice, but has referred students who asked for it and saw it was possible
Smotrich: Education minister enduring ‘lynch’ for support of conversion therapy
Calls grow for education minister’s ousting over gay conversion therapy support
Backing gay conversion therapy, new education minister elicits fresh uproar
How an England team of many colors conquered the world at cricket’s grand final
By David Horovitz
Featuring a Muslim, a Barbadian, and a key player born in the country they were playing against, England’s cricketers, led by an Irishman, show the value of diversity, togetherness
Two more F-35 fighter jets land in Israel, bringing IAF’s declared total to 16
Mahrez stunner sends Algeria into Africa Cup of Nations soccer tourney final
By Martyn WOOD
Jewish Labour member hosts Jordanian MP who endorsed terror attacks on Israelis
Labour whistleblower: Corbyn ally ‘took control’ of anti-Semitism complaints
UK ambassador to US cabled home that Trump ditched Iran deal to spite Obama
Reversing allegedly anti-Arab ban, Afula says nonresidents can use city’s parks
By Tamar Pileggi
In agony, Yazidi women torn between Islamic State kids and return home
By Maya Gebeily
Hospitalizations for electric scooter accidents see sharp jump
3 years of jams expected as Jerusalem shuts main road near entrance
US to impose sanctions on Turkey for purchase of Russian-made S-400 — report
Apollo 11 at 50: Celebrating first steps on another world
By Marcia Dunn
Rivlin lands in South Korea, kicking off official visit
Ehud Barak: National savior or false messiah?
Author interviewJewish ‘Godmother of Silicon Valley’ offers advice for raising successful people
Op-edHow an England team of many colors conquered the world at cricket’s grand final
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Shlomo Alegra
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Fintech in Israel and how other c...
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On The Wings Of Eagles
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Reese Witherspoon is Snapchatting her kids and it's hilarious
The Oscar winner's Instagram shows her funny attempts at communicating with her children.
Reese Witherspoon may be a glamorous Hollywood star, but when it comes to parenting, she faces the same dilemmas all moms do — including figuring out how to speak her children's language.
The 43-year-old Oscar winner took to Instagram on Friday with a hilarious photo of herself showing she's not above using goofy Snapchat effects to communicate with her kids.
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bwcezq3jALJ
The "Big Little Lies" star's photo finds her adorned with pink pom-pom bunny ears and a tiny black bunny nose.
"Are you really doing homework? Or are you playing Fortnite?" she wrote across the image, which she presumably sent to one of her three kids — lookalike daughter Ava, 19, or more likely, sons, Deacon, 15, and Tennessee, 6.
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bomf0QWHj7h
The actress captioned the photo, "How to talk to your kids on Snapchat. What even is #fortnite?? #momlife"
Fortnite, of course, is the The "Hunger Games"-style, multi-player online gaming phenomenon that has captured the minds and hearts of about 3.5 million teen and tween players nationwide.
What's 'the triangle'? KLG and Hoda learn the new viral dance
March 15, 201901:21
The popular game even inspired a 2018 dance craze among its young fans — "flossing," in which kids swing their arms from the back to the front of their bodies repeatedly on each side.
But before dance-happy Witherspoon tries to master that move, she should know the hippest new viral dance craze this year is "The Triangle" — a spin on flossing that requires three participants.
Who knows? Maybe Reese and two of her kids can give The Triangle a whirl!
Reese Witherspoon poses with her lookalike mother and daughter
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Two die in communal clash
Matthijs de Ligt completes €75 million Juventus move from Ajax
Home News World IAEA: North Korea may still be working on nuclear reactors
IAEA: North Korea may still be working on nuclear reactors
North Korea is apparently continuing to work on its nuclear reactors, even though the country has said it is willing to dismantle them, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reported on Thursday in Vienna.
When North Korean leader, Kim Jong Un, met South Korean President Moon Jae In in Pyongyang in September, Mr Kim expressed his willingness to take such a step, while adding that this would depend on reciprocal measures by the U.S.
The IAEA, which is watching North Korea via satellites, has observed possible work on the cooling systems of two reactors, IAEA chief, Yukiya Amano, said.
The operating 5-megawatt reactor and an additional reactor that is under construction are part of the Yongbyon nuclear complex, which is suspected of producing fissile material for North Korea’s nuclear weapons programme.
At a meeting of the IAEA’s governing board, Amano also reported activities “consistent with the fabrication of reactor components” and their transfer into the unfinished reactor.
Amano noted that his agency was unable to confirm its observations unless IAEA inspectors were allowed to visit Yongbyon.
North Korea kicked the inspectors out of the country in April 2009.
North Korea’s denuclearisation process has stalled since Kim met with U.S. President Donald Trump in Singapore in June, when the North Korean leader pledged to halt the nuclear weapons programme in exchange for U.S. concessions.
In spite several rounds of negotiations between leaders and diplomats from North and South Korea and the U.S., there is still no clear timetable for when much of this will happen.
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Moon Jae
North Korean
South Korean President
Yukiya Amano
Two persons died on Wednesday in a clash between the Toru-Orua and Ofoni communities in Sagbama Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.
Juventus have completed the €75 million (£68m/$84m) signing of centre-back Matthijs de Ligt from Ajax.
Governor Ayade decries renewed communal clashes, killings in Cross River
Gov. Ben Ayade of Cross River has warned warring communities in the state to sheath their swords or face the wrath of the law.
Akwa Ibom governor urges NPopC to conduct census devoid of politics
Akwa Ibom State Governor Udom Emmanuel has called on the National Population Commission (NPopC) to separate census exercise from politics so as to gain acceptance from Nigerians.
Kalidou Koulibaly: It pains me to miss Afcon final
Senegal defender Kalidou Koulibaly is pained by the fact he will not be part of the team which will play Algeria in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) final.
Nigeria cannot contain the radical Islam of Iran – Ex-CP Aduba
Former Commissioner of Police in Delta State, Mr. Ikechukwu Aduba, has warned that Nigeria is toying with danger in still keeping the leader of Shi’ites in Nigeria, Ibrahim El Zakzaky, in detention even after a court of competent jurisdiction ordered his release.
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Home Topics Grace Isu Gekpe
Grace Isu Gekpe
Lai Mohammed bows out, urges staff to cooperate with successor
Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, has urged staff of the ministry to support his successors the way they supported him.
Elections: Acting IGP assures neutrality of police
The acting Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr Mohammed Adamu, has assured candidates and political parties of police neutrality and fairness throughout the general elections.
Elections: Police will be neutral – IGP Adamu
The acting Inspector-General of Police (IG-P), Mr Mohammed Adamu, has assured candidates and political parties of police neutrality and fairness throughout the general elections.
Lai Mohammed: Don’t break up Nigeria by urge to break news
The Minister of Information, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, has appealed to the Nigerian media not to break up the country by the urge to break news.
Nigerian media and political accountability
“Only a redeemed media can redeem the nation from drowning in the turbulence of malicious misinformation and hate-mongering that is already gathering,” – Prof Ayobami Ojebode on Thursday, November 29 at the Radio Nigeria 2018 Annual Lecture in Abuja.
UNESCO inaugurates Global Media Defense Fund for journalists’ safety
The Director-General of UNESCO, Audrey Azoulay, has warmly welcomed the establishment of a new Global Media Defense Fund at the initiative of the United Kingdom and Canada and their respective pledges of £3 million ($3.8m) over five years and of 1 million Canadian Dollars ($765,000) to the Fund.
Arsenal captain refuses to join pre-season tour
Koscielny has been linked with a number of Ligue 1 clubs but Arsenal are said to have rejected his request to be released from his contract.
Serena Williams to continue fighting for equality until ‘the grave’
Beaten Wimbledon finalist Serena Williams has said she has no plans to give up fighting for equality to focus solely on her tennis.
Bayern Munich ditch Chelsea ace for another EPL star
Bayern Munich has ditched their interest in Chelsea ace Callum Hudson-Odoi for another Premier League star according to report.
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//Articles
Groovers and Mobsters Present: The Buddy Flick
This month's Groovers and Mobsters Present series looks at The Buddy Flick. Dan Stephens takes a look at one of the greatest British comedy films of all time - Withnail and I.
Oscars – one long bore despite witty king’s speech
The Oscars puts most people to sleep but Colin Firth makes the overly long show almost worthwhile with a witty acceptance speech.
, By Dan Stephens
How To Use Twitter To Drive Traffic To Your Site
Twitter is a great marketing tool. Its audience is global, easily targeted, and freely available. Using Twitter you can drive traffic to your site no matter what the content. It’s also fun to use, it enables you to form relationships with site readers and customers, and...
Interview with West Is West producer Leslie Udwin
West Is West, the sequel to smash-hit East Is East, will begin its theatrical run on the 25th of February. The film reunites cast members Om Puri, Linda Bassett and Jimi Mistry, for a story that sees the Khan family continue its dysfunctional and often disruptive ways under the...
Movie Poster Artist: The Work of Drew Struzan
Drew Struzan is the master artist behind such iconic movies posters as Indiana Jones, Star Wars and Back To The Future.
Remembering Chris Farley
Chris Farley died of a drug overdose 13 years ago. He was 33 years old, the very same age John Belushi was when he died in a similar fashion. Farley is remembered for his work on Saturday Night Live as well as brief film career that began with small parts in Wayne's World and...
Top 10 Films…cinema firsts
As the site reaches its first birthday, I thought I'd look back at some of my cinema firsts. I've picked ten things that stick in my memory as a kid growing up with a love of cinema. From my first film and first visit to the cinema, to the first sex scene I saw,...
The Harry Potter story so far…
Will Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows be your introduction to the world of Witchcraft and Wizardry? Is this the first Harry Potter film you will see? Or do you just fancy a quick recap of the story so far..? Check out Top 10 Films' Guide to the Harry Potter story - all the...
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Blue carbon schemes: conserving coastal areas or commodifying nature?
Water in development
Working in development
The UNFCCC’s ideas to protect and develop coastal ecosystems have been dubbed ‘a false solution’ by civil society organisations, but praised by others
The coastal Kenyan villages bringing their mangrove forest back to life
Carla McKirdy
Mon 22 Feb 2016 10.08 EST Last modified on Wed 14 Feb 2018 12.22 EST
Traditional fishing methods help to preserve and protect the sea and coastlines in Indonesia.
Photograph: Hotli Simanjuntak/EPA
In the coastal town of Tanjung Balai in North Sumatra where Riza Damanik grew up, learning how to fish is a right of passage. But, he says, initiatives by the Indonesian government over the past couple of decades have left small-scale fishermen like him adrift.
First came intensive shrimp farming, which a 2007 report by the Food and Agriculture Organisation blamed for mangrove depletion. Then came palm oil; in an effort to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, extensive sections of coastal areas were converted into palm oil plantations to produce biofuel.
The consequences were catastrophic. Damanik recalls how the fish catch plummeted and major floods swept away entire villages. The biofuel policy was a death knell for these small communities, who were displaced from their ancestral lands and fishing grounds.
Damanik, the chairman of Kesatuan Nelayan Tradisional Indonesia (KNTI) – Indonesia’s traditional fisherfolks’ union – took his plight to meetings held by civil society organisations alongside the UN climate talks in Paris in December.
At the Climate Action Zone, a space dedicated to sharing experiences on climate change actions, attendees raised questions about the solutions proposed by the UN, in particular the blue carbon initiatives put forward by United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
Blue carbon refers to carbon dioxide stored in coastal ecosystems such as mangroves, coastal salt marshes and seagrass meadows. The concept was first introduced by a number of UN institutions in the 2009 report, Blue Carbon: the role of healthy oceans in binding carbon.
Blue carbon initiatives aim to protect and develop these coastal ecosystems as they play a vital role in pollution filtration and carbon storage, which is crucial for mitigating global greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change.
Organisations like Conservation International (CI) and the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) recognise this – as do some CSOs – and have been at the forefront of initiatives to highlight the importance of blue carbon in conservation efforts, and getting governments to include conservation within their policy-making.
Through their efforts, the International Blue Carbon Initiative (ICBI) – lauded as the first integrated programme focused on mitigating climate change by conserving and restoring coastal marine ecosystems globally – came into existence.
Climate change: western states fail to fulfil pledges to developing countries
Yet blue carbon schemes in general have been dubbed a “false solution” by CSOs like the World Forum of Fisher Peoples. Controversy has risen over how agencies propose to conserve endangered areas: by monetising mangroves and including them within carbon markets.
“It is virtually ocean-grabbing, under another name,” says Mads Barbesgaard, chair of political affairs at Afrika Kontakt. “[The idea of blue carbon initiatives] doesn’t tackle the core of the issue that’s driving the climate crisis,” which he believes is pollution caused by transnational corporations and unsustainable industrial techniques.
“Instead, it paints a rosy picture in which transnational corporations can continue to pollute in one place as long as they do a bit of so-called conservation somewhere else, without paying much attention to what conservation actually means to the people who’ve lived off these resources for generations.”
For CSOs, blue carbon schemes represent an extension of programmes such as REDD+ that are said to breed initiatives geared towards the commodification of nature. “The underlying idea of blue carbon initiatives is to shift the focus of our government away from their obligation to ensure the rights of small-scale fishers,” says Damanik. “The overall proposal of blue carbon initiatives is to expand ocean grabbing practices which, for us, means risking the loss of our food, jobs, and welfare.”
On the other hand, those in favour of blue carbon initiatives say they can lead to a prosperous marriage between the public and private sector to target environmental woes.
Gabriel Grimsditch, a IUCN representative, believes that environmental markets can bring green into the mainstream. He adds that such initiatives speak to transnational corporations in a language they understand, and these are then more likely to factor environmental issues into their ongoing activities. In short, these markets can then help societies take the step towards creating a greener economy.
“If organised correctly, [carbon markets] can provide sustainable financing for environmental management and conservation without depending on donor hand-outs,” he says.
12 ways to mobilise the money needed to stop climate change
While this would represent a breath of fresh air for cash-strapped conservation efforts, Grimsditch issues a word of warning. “Social and ecological safeguards and regulations are important for carbon markets in order to avoid malpractices, perverse incentives and abuses.”
Back in Langkat, the KNTI is working with a number of organisations and local government bodies to restore the ravaged coastal ecosystem on their own terms: “for the benefit of the people and the planet – not for profit”.
It might not be the easiest path, but this is just one battle in their struggle to assert that the best solutions to climate change are those based on their traditional knowledge and artisanal practices.
Join our community of development professionals and humanitarians. Follow@GuardianGDP on Twitter, and have your say on issues around water in development using #H2Oideas.
Carbon capture and storage (CCS)
COP 21: UN climate change conference | Paris
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Assisted dying
Assisted dying explained: Victoria's new laws, the safeguards and the Catholic resistance
The health minister says the laws will create ‘compassionate end of life care’ – and the first death under the laws could take place in 10 days’ time
@LMARTI
Wed 19 Jun 2019 00.04 EDT Last modified on Wed 19 Jun 2019 00.29 EDT
The Victorian special minister of state, Gavin Jennings, the Victorian premier, Daniel Andrews, and the then health minister, Jill Hennessy, after the assisted dying legislation was passed in 2017. Photograph: David Crosling/EPA
The first death under Victoria’s new voluntary assisted dying laws could potentially take place in 10 days’ time.
Victorians suffering immense pain and terminal illnesses will now be able to request access to the scheme after laws came into force on Wednesday.
Victoria’s parliament passed the legislation in November 2017, after a conscience vote and a marathon parliamentary debate lasting about 100 hours.
The state is the first in Australia to introduce voluntary assisted dying.
The Victorian health minister, Jenny Mikakos, said the government was expecting about a dozen people to take up the offer in the first year with predictions this will increase to 150 annually in later years.
“We think we have struck the appropriate balance here to give people access to compassionate end of life care,” she told reporters in Melbourne on Wednesday.
People with incurable, advanced and progressive diseases, who are expected to die within six months, must have two doctors assess their conditions.
Under the law, only the person wanting to access voluntary assisted dying can initiate discussions with health workers.
Anti-assisted dying demonstrators outside Victoria’s parliament on Tuesday. Photograph: James Ross/AAP
Medical practitioners must complete special training before being able to conduct eligibility assessments. So far, 122 doctors have undertaken the course and one-third are located in regional Victoria.
There is a 10-day wait between a request for voluntary assisted dying until a permit can granted.
A pharmacy team at the Alfred Hospital Melbourne will be responsible for dispensing the lethal medication and delivering it in a locked box to people’s homes for it to be self-administered.
Patients will have to drink 100ml of liquid within four minutes.
What are the conditions?
There are 68 strict conditions in place before someone can access the scheme including:
• Patients must be an adult aged over 18.
• They must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident and have lived in Victoria for at least a year. This measure is in place to avoid “euthanasia tourism”.
• Patients must be of sound mind.
• They must make three clear requests.
• An independent review board will oversee every stage of the process and the state coroner must be notified of assisted dying deaths.
Kate Sheales, who was diagnosed with osteosarcoma – the most common type of bone cancer. Photograph: Ryan Sheales
For Melbourne resident Ryan Sheales, the laws have come too late for his beloved older sister, Kate.
But he is grateful others will have greater choice and potentially will not have to endure the same prolonged suffering. His sister was diagnosed with osteosarcoma – the most common type of bone cancer.
“She is my big sister but at 36 I’m now older than she ever was,” he said. “If my sister was alive today, she would be applauding these new laws and thanking those who have campaigned so tirelessly to see them realised.”
Before her death, family and friends raised money for her medical treatment and to send Kate and her husband on holiday.
“We gave my sister distractions, adventures and comforts because that was all we could give her,” Sheales said. “What she wanted originally, a healthy life, the cancer robbed from her. And what she wanted at the very end, a good death, the state denied to her.”
Ongoing resistance
On the eve of the law coming into effect, four Victorian Catholic bishops issued a last-ditch warning against the measure.
“We cannot cooperate with the facilitation of suicide, even when it seems motivated by empathy or kindness,” the letter reads. “These words will sound hard to hear but, as pastors of the Catholic dioceses of Melbourne, Ballarat, Sale and Sandhurst, we feel a responsibility not just to say no to voluntary assisted dying, but to give every encouragement to model a way of life that renders voluntary assisted dying unnecessary.”
Catholic health and aged care organisations have flagged they won’t provide or facilitate voluntary euthanasia.
“While we will not be providing voluntary assisted dying, we know our facilities are operating in an environment where patients or residents may wish to explore this option,” the Catholic Health Australia chief executive, Suzanne Greenwood, said.
“If people in our care wish to access voluntary assisted dying from other providers, our services will not impede them. We will provide release from care as well as transfer if they wish to access services elsewhere.”
Other jurisdictions
The Western Australian Labor government has announced plans for similar laws, while an inquiry is underway in Queensland. Meanwhile, the Northern Territory and Australian Capital Territory are fighting to regain the power to legislate on the issue.
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Big audio dynamite: how theatre is moving at the speed of sound
Long treated as a final flourish, sound design is now sitting at the heart of theatre productions – and new technology means it can make drama more tense and terrifying than ever before
Lyn Gardner
@lyngardner
Thu 2 Jun 2016 05.07 EDT Last modified on Fri 5 Jan 2018 05.23 EST
Chest-battering sounds ... Rebecca Benson in Let the Right One In. Photograph: Tristram Kenton/The Guardian
Yael Farber’s remarkable production of Lorraine Hansberry’s Les Blancs finishes its run at the National Theatre on Thursday. You should try to catch it. It’s a galvanising evening conjuring a colonised Africa on the brink of revolution, which celebrates its cultural wealth and ancient traditions. One of the significant elements is the music and sound – as Susannah Clapp quite rightly observed, you leave with your ears ringing.
Rain is sizzling bacon, cars are lions roaring: the art of sound in movies | Jordan Kisner
Just as set and lighting design have seen a revolution in recent years, making, as Matt Trueman has suggested, British theatre an altogether more interesting place, sound design has come on by leaps and bounds too. Increasingly, it doesn’t just enhance a production but is crucial to its success.
Think of Max Pappenheim’s sound design for Katie Mitchell’s Ophelias Zimmer at the Royal Court. The crunch of feet on gravel and sounds from the Danish court heightened the sense of Ophelia drowning in silence in her cell-like room, but also provided the audience with the information necessary to understand Ophelia’s unfolding story as reflected back through Shakespeare’s original play. It was both functional and beautiful.
Drowning in silence ... Jenny Konig in Ophelias Zimmer. Photograph: Tristram Kenton/The Guardian
Mitchell has always been at the forefront of multimedia collaboration where every element contributes to the final production, but she is not alone. Long gone are the days when sound was treated as something that should make as unobtrusive a contribution as possible. Of course sound effects can still be laughable: earlier this year I saw a Richard III where the death of the Duke of Clarence in a butt of Malmsey wine sounded more as if he was being executed by a flushing toilet.
Great sound design is much more than just sound effects. It’s about texture too. In Simon Evans’s revival of Tracey Letts’s Bug, Edward Lewis’s music and sound design added immeasurably to the rising tension; in Polly Findlay’s As You Like It – the best revival of that play for years – Carolyn Downing’s sound combined with Orlando Gough’s musical compositions to set the emotional temperature of the Forest of Arden as much as Shakespeare’s script.
Surround sound... Simon McBurney in The Encounter. Photograph: Tristram Kenton/The Guardian
Then there was John Tiffany’s Let the Right One In, where Gareth Fry’s sound made your heart batter its way out of your chest. At the New Vic in Newcastle-under-Lyme last year sound and Foley work were the motor of Theresa Heskins’s fine staging of Dracula. Seldom has a key rasping in a lock been as scary or symbolic.
Part of this is about a shift in theatre that sees the creation of a show as a much more collaborative process and the script as an idea for a performance rather than something fixed in stone. It’s not just more democratic, it gives space for greater creativity. It’s also fuelled by the increasing availability of audio technologies that allows directors to put sound at the heart of the creative process, whether its David Rosenberg and Ben and Max Ringham’s audio app Wiretapper, or the binaural sound in Simon McBurney’s The Encounter.
These experiments remind us that we don’t just go to see theatre, but hear it too – do share your best and worst experiences of sound design and effects in the theatre below.
Simon McBurney
Katie Mitchell
Polly Findlay
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Home » Judicial candidacy appeal moving quickly
Judicial candidacy appeal moving quickly
Michael W. Hoskins
KEYWORDS State agencies / Lake County / Indiana Supreme Court / Indiana Court of Appeals / neglect
Candidacy issues in Allen, Lake counties
Panel: 1 judge remains, another off ballot
Unified courts, judicial nomination bills move
The Indiana Supreme Court has refused to sidestep the state’s intermediate appellate court on a judicial election issue from Lake County, which involves a prospect for the bench being able to stay on the ballot.
Emergency requests with the state justices are being filed in the case of Michael Lambert v. William I Fine, No. 49A04-1009-PL00556, which stems from an Indiana Election Commission decision in early September that took Highland attorney and Lake Circuit candidate William Fine off the ballot for November’s general election. The four-member commission deadlocked and effectively found that the county Republican Party chair didn’t have the authority to appoint Fine as the Republican candidate for the Circuit seat opening at year’s end. That left voters with only one choice – Merrillville Town Judge George Paras who won the Democratic primary in May to replace retiring Lake Circuit Judge Lorenzo Arredondo.
A Marion County judge reversed that election commission decision on Sept. 13 and granted a temporary restraining order, and late last week issued a final order that stops the state from keeping Fine off the Nov. 2 ballot. Judge Keele noted that no basis in law exists to interpret state party rules in a way to override a statute and that the election commission doesn’t have the subject matter jurisdiction to endorse state party rules, let alone at the expense of a statutory grant of power to a county chair.
Fine’s challenger Michael Lambert, a local town council member who argues that a party caucus should have been held to choose the Republican candidate, filed an appeal with the Court of Appeals on Sept. 17. That same day he filed an emergency motion for the Supreme Court to take jurisdiction because of the public importance at issue.
Justices declined that initial request Tuesday, refusing to take the appeal away from the appellate court at this point. After Marion Superior Judge Michael Keele issued a final order on his earlier decision this month, Lambert filed a renewed motion for emergency jurisdiction under Appellate Rule 56(A) and that remained pending as of this morning. Fine’s legal team has filed a motion to dismiss.
Timing is important in this appeal as absentee ballots were mailed in mid-September, and the decisions in this case impact what choices voters have in deciding who the next Lake Circuit judge will be.
Michael Hoskins joined Indiana Lawyer in May 2006 and mostly covers the state and federal court systems. He’s received awards from the Indiana Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists for his work covering the state's juvenile justice system, the federal immigration court system, wrongful conviction issues, and long-running lawsuits regarding prison conditions.
He came from the Daily Journal in Johnson County, where he was a general assignment reporter covering courts and legal issues. Before moving to Indiana in 2004 from southeast Michigan, Hoskins freelanced for the Detroit Free Press and worked for the Spinal Column Newsweekly after graduating with a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Oakland University in 2001. He currently lives in Greenwood with his wife, Susanne, and volunteers with the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.
Recent Articles by Michael Hoskins
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Why The 'Good Old Days' Weren't That Good
by Ryan Fan Emory University Feb 1, 2016
someecards.com
Most of us have heard the slogan chanted by Donald Trump and his supporters, "Make America great again," that refers to the utopian period of the Reagan presidency. Each of us, individually, has varying opinions of how "great" the Reagan period really was, but this highlights a different habit of Americans, and of human beings in general: looking towards the fonder days of the past to help us disparage and downplay the present.
Beset by our current issues today, it's easy for us to look to a time when things seemed better, or at least normal. While bombarded by final exams and papers towards the end of a college semester, we may look towards how much better it seemed last semester or the semester before. In reality, the feeling was the same: we were as overwhelmed then as we were now. In being overwhelmed, we have a tendency to look for comfort to times when things seemed better, and that's normal because that tendency can be used as a coping mechanism to push through a temporarily difficult situation.
But after the immediate satisfaction of finally being done with that arduous task, whether it was sitting through a horrendously long plane ride or taking an exam that fried your brain worse than the SAT, many of our brains focus on tasks and problems in our near futures and we dread the hardships we face. Immediately, we become nostalgic of "the good old days" yet again, even though in those days we suffered similar stress and uncertainty.
That is not to say that nothing has changed from "the good old days" to the present: change in life is a dynamic tug of war. While you may have had more friends you interact with daily five years ago, you could have more close friends now that you spend more time with.
The tendency to only focus on what we feel has regressed, and ignore the progress we've made since is a mark of hindsight bias -- the psychological tendency to view events in the past as more predictable than they are in the present. It's the underlying reason for the nostalgia we have thinking of "the good old days," looking with a mostly fatalistic outlook at the uncertainty of what's ahead. In difficult times, this tendency is a desire to return to when things were seemed better, or at least seemed normal.
The hindsight bias of "the good old days" is a psychological fallacy we have internally and socially constructed to avoid the reality of the daunting present and future. It parallels the idyllic lives of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden before the fall of man. It's highly unlikely that we've experienced life like that, and even more importantly, "the good old days" aren't going to help us with our problems, now.
Cover Image Credit: someecards.com
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Analysis | Process | Process | Apr 30, 2012
Do Expert Agencies Outperform Generalist Judges?
Joshua D. Wright and Angela M. Diveley
Empirical evidence suggests that expert agencies perform no better than courts.
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A fundamental premise underlying the U.S. administrative and regulatory system is that the subject matter expertise of administrative agencies vests them with the ability to enforce their organic statutes more effectively than any of the three branches of the federal government acting independently. At least in part for this reason, Congress grants agencies the authority to guide policy through statutory interpretation, to engage in rulemaking, and to render adjudicatory decisions. Similarly, perceived expertise guides not only the decision of when it is appropriate for Congress to delegate authority but also whether to delegate to more specialized expert agencies or to courts of general jurisdiction.
This “expertise hypothesis” implies administrative agency decision-making adds greater value to law enforcement, all else equal, than does delegation to Article III courts. This prediction implicates a number of critical issues concerning institutional design and the optimal roles of administrative agencies and courts; indeed, substantial scholarly attention has been paid to these questions even though relatively little direct empirical evidence exists to confirm the expertise hypothesis itself.
One way to test the hypothesis is to compare agency performance in adjudicative decision-making to federal judicial performance in deciding cases involving similar legal issues. We take this approach, comparing antitrust decisions before the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) with those issued by Article III courts. While adjudicatory decision-making is just one of the many functions delegated to administrative agencies, and is only one portion of the FTC’s competition policy portfolio, it provides a useful laboratory for comparative institutional analysis of antitrust enforcement agencies and courts.
The FTC’s competition policy decisions have particular policy relevance in light of recent calls for expansion of its enforcement authority under section 5 of the FTC Act, which authorizes the agency to prohibit “unfair methods of competition.” It is widely understood the FTC has rarely been successful in § 5 enforcement efforts targeting conduct that does not violate the Sherman or Clayton Acts despite repeated attempts and occasionally strong policy preferences of the Commission to avoid the constraints imposed by the judicial interpretations of the antitrust laws. Consistent with those policy preferences, and armed with evidence that some antitrust cases may be too complicated for generalist courts to assess, these commentators invoke the expertise hypothesis as justification for their proposals to grant the FTC greater enforcement powers.
The comparison we conducted is one between institutions – the FTC and the federal judicial system – and not individual judges and commissioners. There is no doubt the antitrust and economic experts at the FTC are well equipped to analyze all modes of business dealings; in this sense, agencies certainly have greater economic expertise than courts as a general rule. However, like the FTC, courts incorporate economic expertise into their decision-making. While the FTC seeks to incorporate its staff’s expertise, courts seek to incorporate the expertise of expert witnesses. Both institutions are organizations with complex internal structures with different modes of transmitting economic expertise into decision-making outputs and different constraints and incentives.
We sought to determine whether the FTC’s institutional structure facilitates the transmission of economic inputs into its adjudicatory decisions more effectively than Article III judges in similar cases. The implicit assumption underlying the expertise hypothesis, and many of the calls for increased delegation to the agencies, is that they are better equipped to convert that expertise to litigation outcomes. If agencies do not hold such an advantage in converting expertise to outputs, interesting and important questions are raised concerning the optimal institutional design of the FTC and of administrative agencies generally. Our preliminary evidence suggests precisely this outcome as we find no advantage for administrative agencies.
We began by comparing the appeal rates of federal district court judges and the FTC’s five-member Commission as the primary performance measure to compare these institutions. Following a paper I published with Michael Baye, we used appeal rates here because they are a signal generated by actual costs incurred by the parties who, informed by their own economic experts, have determined the initial court committed a reversible error. All other things being equal, an appeal signals that at least one party believes it can convince a higher court an error has occurred. For these reasons, we use appeal as our primary performance measure though results are unchanged if we consider reversal rates.
Our comparison suggests the Commission’s decisions are more likely to be appealed (and reversed) than those of Article III judges. Taken at face value, the comparison implies that when it comes to adjudicatory decision-making, the Commission does not perform as well as district courts. We acknowledge that these differences in appeal rates may be the result of factors that influence the decision to appeal from a Commission judgment differently than from a district court judgment. For example, the selection of cases by the FTC may differ systematically from the cases brought by plaintiffs to federal court, though it is not necessarily the case that those differences imply a higher appeal rate for agencies. Further, differences in procedure between litigation in federal court and at the agencies provide different incentives to settle. However, when we conducted further analysis to control for such factors to the extent possible with available data, our basic results remained unchanged. Further, we found that – looking exclusively at FTC cases – appeal rates are not reduced when the Commission modifies the initial decision of the FTC administrative law judge.
The expertise hypothesis posits that the institution with greater expertise will consistently outperform any institution without endogenous expertise. That assumption should be grounded in a comparative analysis of the institutions and the processes translating expertise to decisions. The inability of an agency like the Federal Trade Commission to translate its expertise into higher-quality decision-making than found in the courts renders it at best ineffective and at worst costly to society. We find evidence suggesting the Commission does not perform as well as generalist judges in executing its adjudicatory function. Given the specialized nature of modern antitrust analysis and its strong reliance upon economic expertise, our findings raise important questions about the validity of the expertise hypothesis. Our study highlights the need for more research on the relationships among institutional design, agency expertise, and the quality of agency outputs.
Joshua D. Wright is a Professor of Law at the George Mason University School of Law, and he was the inaugural Scholar in Residence at the Federal Trade Commission Bureau of Competition.
Angela M. Diveley is a third-year student at the George Mason University School of Law.
This essay draws upon the authors’ recent paper, “Do Expert Agencies Outperform Generalist Judges? Some Preliminary Evidence from the Federal Trade Commission.”
Tagged: Administrative Law, Antitrust, FTC
Opinion | Process | Process | Process Jul 17, 2019
Fixing Antitrust’s Indirect Purchaser Rule
Herbert Hovenkamp
A recent Supreme Court case allows end users to sue for antitrust violations.
Endangered Deference
Holly Doremus
The Supreme Court’s recent Weyerhaeuser decision will add to the administrative costs of protecting endangered species.
Deference After Kisor
Ronald A. Cass
A recent Supreme Court decision could reshape judicial deference of agency actions.
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Expert travel planners, who help tailor and book your perfect holiday
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Your Travel Counsellor is: Amanda McConnell
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Orlando inspires incredible stories like nowhere else. Stories of imagination. Curiosity. And epic adventure. This is a place where children and grownups alike can fill their days with once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Home to seven of the world’s top theme parks, Orlando is the No. 1 family vacation destination, theme park capital of the world, and most visited destination in the United States. An unparalleled mix of unique experiences create cherished memories for visitors, including legendary theme parks from Disney, Universal and SeaWorld, an array of world-class water parks, entertainment venues, an award-winning food scene, shopping, sports and nightlife. And, with 450 hotels, Orlando offers more lodging options than nearly any other destination in the world, from expansive resorts to uniquely themed hotels.
No matter what brings you to Orlando, one thing is for certain. Your vacation will be a story told through wide smiles, bursts of laughter and playful shrieks of excitement. So come prepared. Be open to surprises. Let joy run free.
Things to see and do in Orlando this New Years Eve
Orlando Bowl Week
Dec. 28-31, Select Days
All eyes will be on Orlando during the last week of December as Florida Citrus Sports presents its annual bowl week festival. Incorporating the Russell Athletic Bowl and the Buffalo Wild Wings Citrus Bowl on New Year’s Eve, this week will feature more than 100,000 fans flocking to Central Florida for football, festivities and fun. In addition to outstanding action on the field, the festival includes the Orlando Citrus Parade and a concert in Lake Eola Park. Admission: Varies
Florida Citrus Parade
The Florida Citrus Parade, held in downtown Orlando, features signature citrus floats made from more than 100,000 grapefruit, oranges and tangerines. There are more than 50 entries, including marching bands from across the country. The parade attracts more than 60,000 spectators and an international audience of millions through its television syndication in the United States and Canada in 150 markets. Admission: Free.
New Year’s Eve 2017 at Universal CityWalk
Universal CityWalk, a 30-acre (12 hectare) entertainment complex with themed restaurants, nightclubs and shops, hosts one of Orlando’s hottest New Year’s Eve parties. The evening features live performances by national acts, an expansive gourmet buffet, a champagne toast and live entertainment at its nightclubs, including the groove, an electrifying dance club; CityJazz, a hip jazz venue; Jimmy Buffett’s Magaritaville and others. Admission: TBA
New Year’s Eve at the Walt Disney World Resort
The parks come alive to say farewell to 2016. Epcot celebrates the New Year "around the world" with DJs and evening dance parties located throughout World Showcase and lasting late into the evening, as well as a special presentation of the "Illuminations: Reflections of Earth" lights, lasers and fireworks display. Disney’s Hollywood Studios celebrates New Year's Eve not only with multiple presentations of "Fantasmic!" a spectacular of Disney movies and music, but also with a special "Lights! Camera! Happy New Year!" fireworks spectacular, as well as a DJ dance party around the Sorcerer Hat Stage. Magic Kingdom features special presentations of the Main Street Electrical Parade and multiple nighttime fireworks displays. Admission: Theme park events are included in regular park admission.
Countdown to Kids’ New Year’s Eve Party
Features nightly fireworks over Lake Eloise. Watch the spectacular fireworks explode into millions of tiny LEGO bricks with special viewing glasses. Admission: Included in regular park admission.
2017 Buffalo Wild Wings Citrus Bowl
The annual game will be played a day earlier this year to be part of the overall College Football Playoffs semifinals. It will serve as the lead-in game for the College Football Playoff Semifinals later that day. Admission starts at $60.
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Call centers get NICE
Steve Adams
Jun 26, 2007 at 12:01 AM Jun 26, 2007 at 2:53 AM
High-tech software helps companies improve your call-center experience
Automated phone systems are a ubiquitous element of modern life -- and a common example of the mixed blessings of technology.
Customers lament the difficulty of reaching a human being on the line or being forced to navigate layers of irrelevant options and long waits on hold to reach customer service.
One company is using technology to monitor customers' frustrations and route calls accordingly. NICE Systems' artificial intelligence software monitors calls for signs of irritation and key words such as "cancel," which can signal an irate customer.
The software measures more than 20 voice characteristics including cadence, speed and volume, said Eyal Rudnik, product marketing manager for the Israeli company.
"We take a baseline reading at the beginning of the call during the first five or 10 seconds, and measure any deviation," Rudnik said. "We can tell what triggers irritation, like being left on hold, or an extra-long voicemail (tree)."
In addition to emotion, the software is programmed to recognize key phrases such as "cancel my account" or a mention of a competitor's name. NICE Systems' big clients include Dish Networks, IBM and Motorola.
Innovations such as emotion monitoring software are being developed as consumers' grow increasingly fed up with call center customer service.
North American call center customer satisfaction fell from 84 percent in 2005 to 62.9 percent last year, according to a soon-to-be-published report by Dimension Data, a Johannesburg, South Africa technology provider.
The company surveyed 403 call center operators worldwide. Because the customer satisfaction levels are based upon the companies' own surveys, it's difficult to pinpoint a reason for the sharp drop, said Cara Diemont, editor of the report.
The companies conducting the internal surveys may be discovering more customer frustrations by asking more relevant questions, Diemont said. But the survey results also may reflect customers' befuddlement with the latest generation of phone systems, including the fast-growing adoption of voice-recognition systems.
"The more gloomy interpretation of (the survey) is that contact centers are starting to put in improvements, but in the short-term added new complexities that are actually making things slightly more difficult for consumers," Diemont said.
NICE Systems bills its software program as a time-saving alternative to companies assigning supervisors to randomly listen to a handful of calls. "These companies receive thousands of calls a day, and it's not humanly possible to listen to all the calls," she said.
The company's automated system monitors all calls and generates reports to companies highlighting potential problems. In addition, it logs how long a caller is kept on hold and what information is appearing on an employee's screen during the call.
Increasing adoption of voice-recognition programs that require callers to speak requests rather than punch a keypad is posing new challenges, Dimension Data's Diemont said.
The 2006 survey found that 13.5 percent of call centers already have installed speech-recognition technology, and 25 percent have plans to implement it.
Those and other redesigns of automated phone systems have the potential to alienate more customers, Diemont said. It's a pitfall they can avoid by being more up-front with consumers.
"Businesses need to educate consumers about what changes they're making and why it's good for (customers)," she said.
Harvard Pilgrim Health Care, which has won several recent accolades for customer service, uses some of NICE's programs but not the one that analyzes callers' emotions. The Wellesley-based insurer receives up to 4,000 calls a day at its offices in Quincy's Crown Colony Office Park, said David Segal, executive vice president for customer service and market performance.
Supervisors review tapes compiled by NICE that monitor whether representatives greet customers in a friendly manner, Segal said. The program also monitors key phrases that Harvard Pilgrim call center employees are expected to include in every call -- such as "Is there anything else we can help you with today?" -- or reminding them how to contact the company outside of business hours.
Because NICE Systems also analyzes what screens or Web pages employees use to answer a member's questions, that information can be used to retrain employees, Segal said.
"NICE helps us capture the sequence of screens that a customer service rep uses and finds out which set of screens got the answers fastest and most effectively," he said.
Harvard Pilgrim also encourages employees to offer gifts such as Dunkin' Donuts gift certificates to members who are dissatisfied with their service.
"It's something that says, 'We messed up, it's not your fault and we value you as a customer,'" Segal said.
Contact Steve Adams at sadams@ledger.com.
HOW NICE WORKS
NICE Systems' software monitors customers' frustrations during calls to call centers. It detects changes in volume, pitch and cadence that can indicate the company has an irate customer on its hands. The data is compiled in reports and used to retrain customer service reps and redesign automated phone systems. NICE Systems' software monitors customers' frustrations during calls to call centers. It detects changes in volume, pitch and cadence that can indicate the company has an irate customer on its hands. The data is compiled in reports and used to retrain customer service reps and redesign automated phone systems.
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BBIN Plants 200,000 Trees, Launches Global Tree Planting Event
June 28, 2019 at 12:39 pm by Jacob Wolinsky
BBIN Plants 200,000 Trees with Trees for the Future, Launches Global Tree Planting Event
Image source: YouTube Video Screenshot
Silver Spring, MD (June 28, 2019) – Leading i-Gaming software is partnering with international nonprofit Trees for the Future to use i-gaming to help the environment. TGB Charity, a nonprofit brand initiated by BBIN, has launched the latest global tree planting event “For the Next”, inviting everyone to make a change for Earth.
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“We hope to raise a large number of clicks from the public to support tree planting around the world,” says Julie Su of BBIN.
The global tree planting event, "For the Next", kicked off on June 5th - World Environment Day. BBIN is giving its greatest support and will first plant 200,000 trees with Trees for the Future in the hope of creating valuable impact. BBIN eagerly invites the public to show support by visiting the game and planting trees for free. The more seeds clicked, the more trees BBIN will plant.
The Asian i-Gaming software supplier is dedicated to developing technologies and systems as well as providing platform integration services. BBIN has earned many industry awards, and in recent years, it has been actively participating in international events, working to make the dream of a greener world come true. Trees for the Future works with farmers across Sub-Saharan Africa to provide agroforestry education and resources to improve livelihoods and benefit the environment. The partnership will enable Trees for the Future to provide more trees to more farmers.
To plant trees for free, go to www.bbinevent.com/TGBcharity.
Trees for the Future is working to end hunger and poverty for smallholder farmers through revitalizing degraded lands. Learn more about Trees for the Future and see their latest data in the TREES 2018 Impact Report.
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Tesla Blames Shanghai Car Fire On A Single Battery Module
June 28, 2019 at 3:37 pm by Jacob Wolinsky
Whitney Tilson’s email to investors discussing Anton Wahlman‘s article on Tesla Inc (NASDAQ:TSLA) On Track For 88,000 Units Sold In Q2; Tesla strikes out on its own; China scraps list of recommended battery suppliers; Tesla says single battery module caused car fire in Shanghai, has changed vehicle settings; Crypto investors favor TSLA over any other.
Hans / Pixabay
1) Anton Wahlman’s latest: Tesla On Track For 88,000 Units Sold In Q2. Summary
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We have good government registration data from Europe, plus multiple leaks from/through Electrek regarding Tesla’s North American sales numbers for Q2.
Add it all up, and my number comes to just more than 88,000.
I describe in detail how I arrive at that number, geography by geography, model by model.
Unlike in Q1 when 63,000 was way below consensus, this number seems to have a relatively narrow spread from bulls and bears alike.
Therefore, it’s unclear whether Tesla reporting a 88,000 number - plus or minus 5% - would mean much, if anything, for the stock - all other things equal.
2) The FT’s take: Tesla strikes out on its own. Excerpt:
CNBC's Lora Kolodny landed an excellent scoop Wednesday: Tesla is developing its own battery cells in secret.
It follows several news stories this year that have revealed the increasingly fractious relationship between Tesla and the supplier of its battery cells, Panasonic. For those who are unaware, Panasonic is Tesla's partner at its gigantic battery-producing “Gigafactory” in Sparks, Nevada. Panasonic's role is to manufacture the cells for Tesla's products, including its cars and energy storage units.
(If you want further context, we recommend this long read on the relationship from the FT's sister magazine, the Nikkei Asian Review, from April.)
Kolodny's article does a great job of laying out the pros and cons: Tesla could become less dependent on its Japanese partner, and potentially lower costs if the tech works out, but will also likely incur higher research and development spending to get there. A difficult balance to strike with the company taking several cost-cutting measures since the start of the year.
However one thing the piece doesn't mention is the size of purchase obligations that Tesla entered into with Panasonic when the deal was first announced in 2014. Purchase obligations are a commitment to spend a fixed amount of money on goods from a supplier over the term of an agreement.
At the end of 2018, the total of these obligations, of which Panasonic was the primary receiver, was $15.69bn.
3) From a friend:
This is very positive news for Tesla -- and for other foreign automakers, especially those who want to buy batteries from Korean (LG, Samsung and SKI) and Japanese (Panasonic) battery suppliers: China scraps list of recommended battery suppliers. Other than Tesla, certainly great news also for Hyundai, Kia, Toyota, Nissan, Honda, Volkswagen, GM, Ford, FCA and others.
1) Tesla blamed a recent Model S fire in Shanghai on a single faulty battery module: Tesla says single battery module caused car fire in Shanghai, has changed vehicle settings
It claims it's not a system defect. The company issued an OTA update to its software to revise the charge and thermal management settings on Model S and Model X vehicles.
But there might be more to the story... In protecting its cars against future fire incidents, Tesla might be trading vehicle range - one of its more important advantages over other EVs.
See the comments sections on this Seeking Alpha page (Tesla updates on Model S fire in Shanghai), where a number of people claim the new software update is affecting range and charging speed. Here’s one:
MaxedOutMama
@rennatus
I have no connection with Tesla, but I have been following the story on several different forums (TFF and TMC). Yes, the software updates addressing this problem are affecting range and charging speed. Not apparently for everyone, but the impacts have been notable for some and are causing a furor.
Tesla has confirmed directly to several of the owners that the changes were implemented to control failures such as the Shanghai fire. However some owners are now seeing a large total loss of range on the order of 20%, and some of those losses are occurring on cars with relatively low mileage.
In response to the wails of dismay from the owners, Tesla's response so far is that they are figuring out how to mitigate the situation for those deeply affected.
This story has legs and is worth following.
2) No surprise here: Crypto investors favor this stock over any other, and it’s not even close. Excerpt:
Tesla may have its share of haters, with short-sellers continuing to pile into the stock, but when it comes to the crypto community, Elon Musk’s still the man.
According to a report released this week from Abra, which took a look at more than 12,000 investors using its blockchain-based investing app, Tesla is the clear favorite, followed by Amazon, Apple and Google.
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5 Best Film Assessment Podcasts
Home5 Best Film Assessment Podcasts
As one of the funniest and most successful sites today, amassed its overwhelming fame with its hilarious content comprising of memes, amusing comics, witty quotes, humorous pictures, LOLcats, and every little thing funny and wacky there is on the world wide web. Cosby’s daughters Erinn and Ensa also released audio statements to radio and Tv in help of their father. NBC believed that perhaps David was prepared for a new series given that he hadn’t worked on Tv given that The Partridge Family. Nonetheless Sony Pictures Entertainment is without a doubt one of the greatest movie production companies in the planet (which is why they landed a quantity 2 spot on this list). You’d find all kinds of news that would have a hacker or a startup owner intrigued. Then, I would like to see licensed news journalists who are discovered to be dishonest or who veer from prescribed journalistic requirements be held criminally liable or fined anytime they are located to fall short of market requirements.
But prior to that she appeared in a range of ’70s Television series such as Adam 12, Columbo, and Kung Fu. Lynley’s most recent perform was in the brief film Vic, directed by the late Sage Stallone. I can’t think of a Tv character I’ve located far more annoying than Alan, and that consists of Steve Urkel and Kimmy Gibbler from the old TGIF days and even cousin Oliver on The Brady Bunch. In other words, the news media will most likely support legislation that reinforces marketplace ideals, but will still criticize actors that violate accepted business norms, injure innocents, and jeopardize the market system as a whole” (Herman, 2002, p. 78).
Shaun Cassidy gained teen idol status as Joe Hardy on The Hardy Boys/Nancy Drew Mysteries, took on the part of Dave Stohler, a guy who loves bicycle racing in the series Breaking Away inspired by the 1979 function film of the identical name. You certainly did not study my prior posts as I stated no a single news source is reputable. Programmes such as The making of …” a certain ( typically big-price range ) film are routinely broadcast on news channels and Zee News runs a day-to-day bulletin called ‘Bollywood News’.
The news must simply report the information – the facts, ma’am, just the details – and leave the opinions to their viewers. My daughter found this site as an option to buying a new Tv. I read by way of the directions and figured it was worth the time and nominal cost to give it a try. If there is a problem with that then it appears it is the carrying out of Fox who has you believing that if someone doesn’t watch Fox news for their news then they are against the world. International infotainment can be defined as the delivery of info and entertainment across a digitally linked globe enabled by the convergence of the telecommunications, personal computer and media industries.
The gossip and drama is unreal and I feel they make their own news up since it gets rating. She started her entertainment profession in the 1940s as a model and burlesque dancer but did handle to get some roles in television shows, normally as a wise-cracking side-kick. I wish our legislature and Senate would get stricter and enforce any fake news outlets. An additional division owned by Universal Studios is Illumination Entertainment which was founded in 2007 by Chris Meledandri. Hacker News is one of the best sites like Reddit for all the tech enthusiasts who are into hacking.
assessmentpodcasts
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The Association of German Engineers (VDI) > Media Services
English Press Releases
ConCarExpo 2017 ended with visitor record
Europe's largest international trade fair about the connected car, automated driving and IT security came to an end. About 1,500 visitors were counted. On July 5 and 6, Berlin was an international branch meeting point. At the ConCarExpo with the ConCarForum, Car Pavilion and Start-up Area, the accompanying specialist conferences as well as numerous side events, visitors were able to experience the car of the future.
„ConCarExpo2017“: The trade fair took place in Berlin on the 5th and 6th of July 2017. (Picture: VDI Wissensforum GmbH)
Running under the motto "Connected Car & Mobility Solutions", ConCarExpo 2017 united more than 1,500 visitors and over 80 exhibitors from all over the world. With a large number of expert presentations and four parallel conferences with more than 120 speakers, it created a knowledge-sharing platform. The focus was on the core issue of digitalization as a key on the road to fully automated and networked driving. Over the course of two days ConCarExpo 2017 did showcase the trends and active players that will be shaping the automotive sector in the future.
The automotive industry is undergoing a comprehensive revolution. This disruption takes place in three dimensions: digitization (from the automobile with the human being as a driver to fully connected autonomous driving vehicles), sustainability (from the combustion engine to the electric drive), urbanization (from ownership to shared mobility). This is the opinion of Johann Jungwirth, Chief Digital Officer at Volkswagen AG, who opened with this statement the ConCarExpo 2017 in its keynote-speech at the ConCarForum. "This will lead to a similar progress in society and, above all, to an increase in our live realty as the change from horses to cars has done over 100 years ago," Jungwirth said. He was confident in his visions.
„This change will not take place until 2030 or 2035, but the new world will be shaped over the next three to five years. While in the past hundred years, the engine was the heart of the automobile and the driver was the brain, in this century, the self-driving-system is the heart and the mobility platform its brain. In this respect, the automobile and mobility will be newly invented. Despite the immense challenge, there are clear advantages: higher security, an immense time saving, more viable cities, more comfort; In short: an opportunity to significantly improve life. In particular, the Volkswagen Company is preparing for this change. This will bring the company forward from a car manufacturer to a mobility provider, with the mentality and agility of the Silicon Valley.
The change of the OEMs within this revolution and their role in the future was also the central topic of this year's international press conference. The question was: "Facing the Challenge - Digital Transformation in the Automotive Industry - Do car manufacturers have to become Mobility & IT Service Providers?". The answer was discussed by the following participants:
• Henry Bzeih, Managing Director Connected & Mobility Division, Kia Motors America
• Thierry Klein, Head of Innovation Management for Verticals, Nokia Innovation Steering
• Claudio M. Camacho, Head of Marketing, Tuxera Inc.
• Roland Werner, Head of Government Affairs & Policy DACH, Uber
• Martin Hauschild, Head of Traffic and Environment Expert Advisory Board VDI/Head of Mobility Technologies, BMW AG
All participants agreed in their reply. OEMs will change and expand their business models. The customer is becoming increasingly important.
"Digital transformation and the transformation of traditional business models go much further than the evolution of the technologies," said moderator Martin Hauschild (VDI/BMW). "It touches aspects of the expectations and values of consumers. On the one hand, the issues are about the way in which society consumes products, but on the other hand, these issues are also deeply embedded in the values and working cultures of companies and markets."
Mr.Thierry Klein (Nokia) felt similar. The revolution has brought together the automotive and telecommunication sector as well as the IT sector, to develop new technologies. Now, however, it is important that these industries are collaborating with each other to develop solutions and business models so that the full potential of intelligent transportation systems can be realized.
"The automotive industry and many others were very focused on the product in the past", Henry Bzeih (KIA) stated. Today, instead, the consumer is the focus. "Connectivity, autonomous driving and mobility" play a very important pioneering role. Essentially, the focus is to move from product-centric business models to consumer-oriented models with the goal of a successful symbiosis.
At the ConCarExpo 2017, the exchange of knowledge and networks was the focus. For example, at the four international expert conferences:
4. International VDI-Conference „Automated Driving“
4. International VDI-Conference „Automotive HMI & Connectivity“
3. International VDI-Conference „IT Security for Vehicles”
International VDI-Conference „Digital Infrastructure & Automotive Mobility”
However, the ConCar Forum also focused on the exchange of knowledge and networks, where representatives of exhibitors offered numerous expert presentations and panel discussions.
One core area of the ConCarExpo 2017 was the 3,000 sqm exhibition area, with more than 80 international exhibitors.
The "ConCarExpo2017" had the following exhibition areas:
• Automated driving and driver assistance systems
• Electronic components, control and monitoring, sensors
• Software, Car-IT and infrastructure technologies (Cloud, Big Data Analytics)
• Infotainment HMI, operation and display
• Diagnostics, testing, integration, After Sales Services
• Transport technology, infrastructure, telematics
• Networked mobility solutions and Connected Services
• Development services, Projects, initiatives
The car of the future, however, was not a pure theory. Some highlights were presented by the Car Pavilion, where automated, urban electric vehicles could be seen and experienced live.
The concept vehicle OASIS from Rinspeed, for example, the "smart self-propelled e-mobile for city and surrounding areas", was just one of the highlights presented in the Car Pavilion.
In addition, two-wheel mobility solutions were on the test track "first & last mile"- solutions. On a course, participants were invited to test-ride smart bikes, e-skateboards or e-micro scooters.
In the Start-up area with its own forum, young and innovative companies presented their developments for the networked vehicle of the future.
The Start-up Pitch took place during the start-up forum. In this competition, the participating companies had only a few minutes to present their latest ideas and products to a jury.
First place was one by "parkbob GmbH". The winner of the Start-up Pitch will now receive 120,000 euros of Microsoft's cloud capital as well as an invitation to Microsoft Deutschland GmbH in Munich.
Second place went to "Third Space Auto". The Start-up is now taking part in the "International Start-up Incubator and Accelerator" in Brussels.
At the ConCarExpo Hackathon, five young IT development teams created innovative solutions for various areas of mobility. After 24 hours, the results were presented on the stage of the Start-up area and the best among them were awarded.
The victorious team VeeTox won the prize worth 7,000 € with a development on the topic of collision avoidance with bicycles.
All in all, the organizer feels vindicated by the diversity of topics, outstanding contributions to the topics and, last but not least, by the positive visitor feedback in the ConCarExpo concept.
Timo Taubitz, Managing Director of VDI Wissensforum GmbH, says: "ConCarExpo is Europe's largest international trade fair on the topics of networked vehicles, automated driving and IT security. Since its successful launch in 2016, it is the most important knowledge, network and business platform in the industry. We and our guests are not only a part of the future, but we are impressively able to help shape it decisively, "said Mr. Taubitz and at the same time, he announced the continuation of the event in 2018.
For further information on the international trade fair ConCarExpo 2017 and the accompanying specialist program, please visit www.concarexpo.com as well as the VDI Wissensforum Customer Centre, PO Box 10 11 39, 40002 Düsseldorf, E-Mail: info@concarexpo.com, Phone: +49 211 6214-7049, Telefax: -167.
Your contacts for the press:
Tom Frohn
Phone: +49 211 6214-641
Fax: +49 211 6214-97641
E-Mail: wf-presse@vdi.de
About VDI Wissensforum GmbH
Since 1957 we are the leading education provider for engineers, technical specialists and managers. In 1,500 congresses, conventions, technology forums, courses and seminars each year we cover almost every technical discipline. Offers in the area of soft skills and Management further round out the company's portfolio. More than 25,000 participants every year train and develop themselves with help of our offers.
www.concarexpo.com
www.vdi-wissensforum.de/en/event/automated-driving/
www.vdi-wissensforum.de/en/event/automotive-hmi-and-connectivity/
www.vdi-wissensforum.de/en/event/it-security-for-vehicles/
www.vdi-wissensforum.de/en/event/at-infrastruktur-5g-2017/
www.vdi-wissensforum.de
<- Back to: Media Services
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Film Fridays
Fresh Film Fridays
Graphic Novel Review
Guest Apparences
New Comic Day
Buddy comedies can sometimes be a hard genre to crack. You need to have a promising plot and two actors that have great chemistry between one another. You can have classics like Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure, 48 Hours, or Lethal Weapon. This genre though, isn’t without its sleepers. More recently, we’ve had the misfortunate to know The Heat, Cop Out or even this year’s The Hustle. It takes a special blend of comedic timing, an intriguing plot and above all else, chemistry. The genre is a dime a dozen these days. So, what happens when you take Dave Bautista, wrestler turned MCU superstar, and Kumail Nanjiani, who was arguably the best part of last month’s Men in Black International.
Stuber tells the story of a cop named Vic, played by Bautista, who loses his partner during a case to catch a heroine dealer. Fast forward six months to a blind Vic taking an uber driver named Stu, played by Nanjiani, hostage to capture the dealer and get his long awaited closure. In some parts this film feels like a modern version of the Jimmy Fallon-Queen Latifah film, Taxi, from 2004. Or even a parody of the Tom Cruise-Jamie Foxx thriller, Collateral, only four years later. Stuber though is an interesting comedy to gauge. It both overperformances and underdelivers within the same breath. While Bautista’s charm and comedic timing can be more subtle within the realms of the MCU as Drax the Destroyer. Here it’s a bit over the top and borderline annoying within these confides. His portrayal as Vic is cliché and two-dimensional. Unfortunately, the same can be said about Kumail Nanjiani as Stu. It makes even worse when both spend the majority of the movie lacking any kind of chemistry together. The film often begs the question as to what a man is but men may be leaving this film with this question: why did this film even bother.
Stuber on the surface is a buddy comedy of typical origins. One character who is on a mission and another who doesn’t really fit within that mission and the two characters have to learn to like one another. Stuber in a lot of ways feels like a modernized version of white noise. The comedy is very hit or miss. There are times where you genuinely will laugh out loud. Then there are other times where you can feel the writers intended for something to be a joke but it didn’t stick the landing. Perhaps going with the theme of what makes a man, a man – the film suffers from identity issues. Aforementioned this film underdelivers. Outside of the last ten minutes of the movie, there are a few times where the script calls for these heartfelt moments. They feel so out of place for the majority of the time. They feel so forced. Though in the end the emotion does land following the film’s big climax.
Overall, Stuber, is white noise for the comedy genre. Taking two talents like Dave Bautista and Kumail Nanjiani and pit them into a cycle of slapstick, iffy comedic timing and emotional strings that feel borrowed from another symphony. The film does have some laugh out loud moments within it. It sticks the emotional landing upon its ending. Stuber is entertaining to a capacity. Yet, much like Stu’s Uber customers: this one is not worth the five star rating.
RORSCHACH RATING SCALE:
And more importantly, if you or someone you know is struggling with suicide, addiction, self-harm or depression - please free feel to reach out. Use any our resources, call the suicide lifeline (1-800-273-8255) or text 741-741.
Credits: Stuber is property of Disney/Fox. We do not own nor claim any rights.
Tagged: Stuber, Movie Review, Film Reviews, Comedy, Buddy Comedy, Dave Bautista, Kumail Nanjiani, 2019
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Cronut Inventor Is Opening A Bakery In The U.K. And We’re Very Excite...
Cronut Inventor Is Opening A Bakery In The U.K. And We’re Very Excited
Thomas Schauer/Cronut®
It seems like ages ago that a chef thought of combining a croissant and doughnut to create the glorious Cronut and it’s fair to say the foodie hybrid took New York by storm.
But, that was nearly three years ago now and not many have done it justice in the U.K., especially Greggs piss poor attempt which didn’t really take off, surprisingly.
So, who better then the inventor himself to bring this creation across the Atlantic to us Brits and show us how it’s done?
Step forward Dominique Ansel. Owner of the Dominique Ansel Bakery in New York, he is set to launch his first bakery in London at some point in 2016.
Dominique announced it on Instagram by posting a picture of one of his famous pastries decorated with the Union Jack flag.
LONDON!! Today is a big day: we’re thrilled to announce we’ll be opening #DominiqueAnselBakery this year in your neck of the woods! Growing up so close to London, I never had a chance to visit until I was much older and immediately fell in love with the blend of cultures and the spirit of the place. I’m so grateful at the chance to share a little of what I do with you all. We’re looking for new culinary talent to join our team and to learn a great deal on our journey. Stay tuned, and we can’t wait to meet everyone and do our best for you. #DABLondon #DominiqueAnselLondon #Cronut #London
A photo posted by dominiqueansel (@dominiqueansel) on Jan 19, 2016 at 7:01am PST
The chef said he was “thrilled” about his new venture.
Growing up so close to London, I never had a chance to visit until I was much older and immediately fell in love with the blend of cultures and the spirit of the place [sic]. I’m so grateful at the chance to share a little of what I do with you all.
Dominique Ansel/Instagram
According to the chef’s website, the cronut was created in May 2013 and has been trademarked by Dominique Ansel Bakery. The pastry is made with laminated dough and once cooked, it is rolled in sugar, filled with cream and finished with glaze.
The pain-staking process means the Cronut takes three days to make and there is a different flavour available each month.
Ari Perilstein
Currently, Cronuts set pastry fans back $5.50 in New York, so at London prices you’re probably looking at having to trade your leg for one, but it’ll be worth it…
In a nutshell they’re donuts with probably double the calories of a regular doughnut, but it’s fair to say they look awesome as fuck… How could you not want one of these bad boys?
https://t.co/xXgWiCziPZ
— Dominique Ansel (@DominiqueAnsel) May 10, 2013
I need these in my life, ASAP.
Evening Standard and 2 other
Evening Standard
Cronut founder Dominique Ansel to open bakery in London
Cronut bakery bringing mouth-watering treats to the UK - but where and when are they opening?
Cronut inventor Dominique Ansel to open first bakery in London
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Browsing the topic: Perry v. Brown
San Francisco City Attorney speaks out
March 20, 2013 at 4:58 pm EDT | by
Video: Highlights of Prop 8 Amicus Briefs
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IYGaKcxtp_I Matt Baume's Marriage New Watch dives deep into the briefs filed in the Supreme Court...
March 14, 2013 at 8:00 am EDT | by
Phil Reese
Video: The President on why he weighed in on Prop 8 case
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=apQt4xGzvKw Barack Obama explains why his administration is jumping in on a Supreme Court case that...
March 1, 2013 at 6:17 pm EDT | by
Takano calls on Obama to speak out on Prop 8
February 26, 2013 at 5:49 pm EDT | by
Year in review: DOMA, Prop 8 challenges advance in the courts
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Supremes expected to decide on taking up marriage
December 2, 2012 at 10:52 am EDT | by
Two-faced Ted Olson should be shunned
How can Ted Olson look himself in the mirror without cringing? Many in the LGBT...
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Fast Five Fix: June 25
[caption id="attachment_43923" align="alignright" width="600" caption="Cyndi Lauper rocked Pride in New York City this weekend, including...
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Federal appeals court declines to reconsider Prop 8 decision
[caption id="attachment_25758" align="alignright" width="460" caption="The U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals has denied a request...
June 5, 2012 at 1:38 pm EDT | by
Michael K. Lavers
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Lolita Davidovich judiciously juggles acting career and family
By - The Washington Times - Monday, April 30, 2001
SANTA MONICA, Calif. —Arriving in a flurry, Lolita Davidovich apologizes for "flying in so late." Moments later, shes talking about how having a daughter, Valentina, now 16 months, has "settled and centered me" and "made me more organized."
Then, catching the irony, she laughs and apologizes again for her tardiness.
She has come to the Santa Monica offices of her husband, director Ron Shelton, to talk about her role in the NBC miniseries "The Judge." The two-part adaptation of the legal suspense thriller airs Sunday and next Monday, both at 9.
She plays a former county prosecutor, Catherine Rosetti, hired to defend a judge charged with murder and to entice her former boyfriend, Paul Mandriani, to join the defense team as well. The all-star cast includes Edward James Olmos as Judge Armando Acosta, Chris Noth as Mandriani, Sonia Braga as Acostas wife and Charles Durning as the judge presiding over the case.
As Rosetti, in a short red wig and serious suits, Miss Davidovich hides some of her natural lushness. Thats not the case on interview day. Her own marmalade hair flies free, and her striking figure is set off in a midriff-baring green knit top, sleek blue jeans and high-heeled boots, also in a marmalade hue.
She still looks sexy in the miniseries, but thats not really the point of the Rosetti-Mandriani relationship.
"There is romance, but its a past romance," she says. "Its a sexy relationship, but it doesnt manifest itself in a formula way."
As research for the role, Miss Davidovich relied on anecdotes and information provided by her agent, David Brownstein, a former trial lawyer who represented mobsters.
She believes theres "an inherent arrogance" to being a trial lawyer that an actor must capture to be convincing. "Youve just got to be full of yourself. … Theres a certain pompousness that often goes with it, and a righteousness."
Miss Davidovich sees the art of being a lawyer as "knowing how to use the language and how to tell a story, because laws are all interpretable and often arent up to date with society."
"The deliciousness of language" is what attracts her to acting.
She hankers for a return to the stage in any George Bernard Shaw play, stuffed with lengthy speeches.
Miss Davidovich, 39, was born in Toronto. Her father was from Belgrade, her mother from Slovenia.
"I was kind of a late bloomer in most things. I was an introvert as a child. I — wasnt very social, and not a whole lot has changed."
Her manner of speech is reflective, her demeanor a little dreamy, as she searches to express herself.
How did she become interested in acting?
"I think its probably a combination of being Slavic and being very emotional and being such a good listener. I love people so much, and their suffering, that to kind of inhabit them and vicariously live experiences and other peoples situations was probably the most creative and healthy thing to do, rather than just living, living the role.
"Does that make sense? I dont think it came out right," she says.
Miss Davidovich met her husband during the filming of "Blaze" (1989), which he directed. She played stripper Blaze Starr. Mr. Shelton also directed "Bull Durham" (1988), "White Men Cant Jump" (1992) and "Tin Cup" (1996).
"My Serbian friends really have so embraced him as an honorary Serb by virtue of his loud voice, uncompromising methods, drinking habits — um, not habits, but propensity," she says with affection, glancing at the offices well-stocked bar.
"And his earthiness. Hes so quintessentially American," she says, musing about "the big, crazy, unpredictable pioneer spirit" she believes American and Slavic cultures share.
Mr. Sheltons office is cluttered with sports photos and trinkets, but the actress says, "I so have no interest in sports. None."
Well, there is one sport.
"Boxing. We both share a love of boxing," she says, referring to Mr. Sheltons comedy about the sport, "Play It to the Bone." The 1999 film starred Miss Davidovich, Antonio Banderas and Woody Harrelson.
Not baseball?
"No. Im willing to give it a try, though. Probably we will because the little one is so athletic."
Miss Davidovich has been busy filming in Canada and appearing in the play "The Vagina Monologues" in New York City.
In Canada, besides working on "The Judge," she also filmed two projects for Showtime.
In "Snow in August," written by columnist Pete Hamill and inspired by his childhood, she plays the mother of an Irish boy growing up in the 1940s amid the multiracial gang culture of Brooklyn. The movie will air in August. In the cable networks series "Beggars & Choosers," she guest-stars as a seductive Parisian TV executive.
Soon shell play Kurt Russells spouse in "The Plague Season," a police-and-politics drama that Mr. Shelton will film in downtown Los Angeles.
"He always writes movies in the worst locations," she says with a laugh. "I say, 'Cant you write a movie set in, like, Prague or Brazil? Does it have to be between here and Las Vegas?"
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Low Testosterone: How Do You Know When Levels Are Too Low?
By Matt McMillen
From the WebMD Archives
In recent years, Spyros Mezitis, MD, PhD, has found himself talking to a lot more male patients about low testosterone, a diagnosis he says is becoming increasingly common.
"More men are getting older, and men are more open about talking about erectile dysfunction," Mezitis, an endocrinologist at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City, tells WebMD.
On the one hand, increased diagnosis of low testosterone is driven by an aging population, less stigma, and more precise tests. But there's another big reason why men come to Mezitis' office for a testosterone test.
"Men are bombarded by media, by advertising campaigns -- 'Don't feel well? Ask your doctor about low testosterone,'" he says.
They come in saying they feel excessively fatigued, weaker, depressed, and that they have lost their sex drive -- all common symptoms of a drop in testosterone.
"As an endocrinologist, I'm thinking hormones," says Mezitis, who estimates that about a quarter to a third of the men he tests for low testosterone have levels below normal. "Sometimes it is testosterone, sometimes it is the thyroid, and sometimes it's something unrelated to hormones."
What Is Testosterone and Why Does It Decline?
Testosterone is a hormone. It's what puts hair on a man's chest. It's the force behind his sex drive.
During puberty, testosterone helps build a man's muscles, deepens his voice, and boosts the size of his penis and testes. In adulthood, it keeps a man's muscles and bones strong and maintains his interest in sex. In short, it's what makes a man a man (at least physically).
After age 30, most men begin to experience a gradual decline in testosterone. A decrease in sex drive sometimes accompanies the drop in testosterone, leading many men to mistakenly believe that their loss of interest in sex is simply due to getting older.
"Some say it's just a part of aging, but that's a misconception," says Jason Hedges, MD, PhD, a urologist at Oregon Health and Science University in Portland. A gradual decline in testosterone can't explain a near-total lack of interest in sex, for example. And for Hedges' patients who are in their 20s, 30s, and early 40s and having erectile problems, other health problems may be a bigger issue than aging.
"A lot of the symptoms are mirrored by other medical problems," Hedges says. "And for a long time, we were not attributing them to low testosterone, but to diabetes, depression, high blood pressure, and coronary artery disease. But awareness and appreciation of low testosterone has risen. We recognize now that low testosterone may be at the root of problems."
Doctors will want to rule out any such possible explanations for symptoms before blaming them on low testosterone. They will also want to order a specific blood test to determine a man's testosterone level.
"The blood test is really the thing," Mezitis says.
Low Testosterone: How Low Is Too Low?
The bottom of a man's normal total testosterone range is about 300 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL). The upper limit is about 800ng/dL depending on the lab. A lower-than-normal score on a blood test can be caused by a number of conditions, including:
Injury to the testicles
Testicular cancer or treatment for testicular cancer
Chronic liver or kidney disease
Some medicines and genetic conditions can also lower a man's testosterone score. Aging does contribute to low scores. In some cases, the cause is unknown.
A low score does not always translate to symptoms, Mezitis says, "but we often find something that's off when we see scores of 200 or 100 ng/dL."
Hedges agrees and warns that even if a man does not have symptoms, he may be well advised to seek treatment. Low testosterone scores often lead to drops in bone density, meaning that bones become more fragile and increasingly prone to breaks.
"That's something I would want to have a conversation about," Hedges says. "Bone density issues are not always apparent."
Low Testosterone Treatment
Having a gradual decline in your testosterone level as you age is to be expected. Treatment is sometimes considered if you're experiencing symptoms related to low testosterone.
If a young man's low testosterone is a problem for a couple trying to get pregnant, gonadotropin injections may be an option in some cases. These are hormones that signal the body to produce more testosterone. This may increase the sperm count. Hedges also describes implantable testosterone pellets, a relatively new form of treatment in which several pellets are placed under the skin of the buttocks, where they release testosterone over the course of about three to four months. Injections and nasal gels may be other options for some men.
What Are the Risks and Benefits of Testosterone Treatment?
"If their symptoms are truly due to low testosterone, patients tell me that within a few weeks they notice a significant difference, though sometimes it is not too dramatic," Hedges says. "Sex is better, depression is better -- you can see it directly and quickly."
There are also risks. Testosterone treatment can raise a man's red blood cell count as well as enlarge his breasts. It can also accelerate prostate growth. Men with breast cancer should not receive testosterone treatment.
Testosterone treatment usually is not advised for men with prostate cancer. Hedges says some of the associations between testosterone replacement therapy and prostate health are currently being challenged. In his practice, he does offer testosterone treatment to men who have been treated for prostate cancer.
"The take-home [message] is treatment is safe as long as you get careful monitoring," Hedges says. "If there are known issues, patients should be treated by a specialist."
WebMD Feature Reviewed by Melinda Ratini, DO, MS on August 31, 2016
Spyros Mezitis, MD, PhD, endocrinologist, Lenox Hill Hospital, New York.
Jason Hedges, MD, PhD, urologist, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Ore.
The Hormone Foundation: "Low Testosterone and Men's Health."
The Hormone Foundation: "Patient Guide to Androgen Deficiency Syndromes in Adult Men."
Patient Education Institute: "Low Testosterone Reference Summary."
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1 million Australian readers every month list your event
Treasures of the Louvre
Home > Paris > Art | Exhibitions | Galleries
by Cressida Ryan (subscribe)
Classicist and traveller
Published November 28th 2013
One of the world's largest museums, when you first enter the Louvre it feels quite overwhelming. There are three different ways in, named after famous Frenchmen (Denon, Sully or Richelieu), with each taking you into a different wing of the museum. Opened as a museum in 1793, it's had centuries to acquire great works of art, and masterpieces about.
The Mona Lisa is, of course, a prime attraction. People always say it is a disappointment because it's behind glass, small, not 'that great', and usually ten deep in tourists so you can't get near it. If you visit at opening time (particularly on a Sunday), and head straight for it, then you can have a few uninterrupted moments contemplating the painting itself. Why is it so famous? Why do we refer to it as 'her', personifying the painting as its sitter? Why do we go to look at art, to see it, to have seen it, to use seeing it to prompt, reflect or express other thoughts and feelings?
She's much softer in real life than she comes across in pictures. Part of the frisson, however, inevitably comes from appreciating how many other people have stood in your footsteps before you. This museum is so overwhelming and gorgeous that it's worth contemplating some of these questions as you go round and soak it all in. The very fabric of the building is amazing, varying between the sharp white lines of a modern gallery to sumptuous, rich galleries with intricate ceilings and plentiful gilding.
Louvre Classical Sculpture Gallery
It's also worth turning around and looking behind you at Paolo Caliari's The Wedding at Cana. Why put this painting opposite the Mona Lisa? The crowds merge into the crowded foreground of the painting, drawing you in to look at it more closely www.weekendnotes.com/im/006/08/img073021.JPG" align="CENTER" thumb="https://www.weekendnotes.com/im/006/08/img073022.JPG" border="1" caption="Roman Gallery" wrap="0" title="Roman Gallery" margin="5"]
Canova's Cupid and Psyche is noted as another masterpiece, and is well worth visiting. Every angle gives another intricate, enticing view, the marble so deftly carved it looks like soft flesh, Cupid's hands gently pressing into Psyche to support her. It emanates tenderness, close up or at a distance, drawing on the story in Apuleius' The Golden Ass, which has inspired reworkings for the past two millennia.
Canova Cupid & Psyche
Cupid & Psyche detail
Themed in a traditional manner, with rooms arranged according to era and / or country, the museum has strings of galleries on each topic, with some small rooms and other vast chambers. It's impossible to take in the whole museum at once, so you do need to decide which areas to focus on. Italian masterpieces, African art, Greek and Roman sculpture, art from the Americas, Iran or the Islamic World, it's all there. It perhaps lacks modern art, but visiting exhibitions help to make up for this.
These masterpieces are helpfully marked on the detailed gallery map and you can plot your route round the museum using it. The museum can be quite hard to navigate because it is so vast, with a series of escalators and stairs that don't quite join up, so you can find yourself at a dead end, or back where you started, without really noticing.
The entrance price is presently 12 Euros, which is extremely reasonable for the wealth of exhibits. The queues are carefully managed. You can leave your bags in a luggage store, which helps when travelling. Photographs without flash are allowed, and gallery staff will tell you off for breaking this rule, or touching the exhibits.
Musée du Louvre by Lauren Walters
subscribe to Cressida Ryan's articles
Why? One of the world's largest museums, crammed with masterpieces
When: Monday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday: from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Friday: from 9 a.m. to 9:45 p.m. Closed on Tuesdays, and 25th December, 1st January, 15th August
Website: www.louvre.fr/en
Where: Paris
Cost: 12 Euros for a standard adult ticket, concessions available
Art (subscribe)
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Musée du Louvre (photo)
by Lauren Walters on 29/12/2012
A Day in Paris
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24 Hours in Paris
On the Way to the French Riviera: Lyon, Vienne, Avignon, Marseille
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Home » Reviews » Live Reviews » WPGM Reviews: Tom Grennan Live At KOKO
WPGM Reviews: Tom Grennan Live At KOKO
Posted on October 5, 2017 by Jodie Brunning
BBC Sound of 2017 nominee and Insanity Record artist Tom Grennan recently took to the stage at KOKO Camden on Wednesday, September 27, for his London headline concert. There was soul from the start, both from his personality and style, he opened in blackout, singing acapella his voice vibrating throughout the levels of the venue.
He began with “Royal Highness” – dressed in a suit, he looked classy yet chic. He opened the show with real groove, it was punchy and fun even as the song’s breakdown became very chilled, oozing those sunday vibes as he ad libbed his way through effortlessly.
The boozy crowd were excited from the get go, exploding into cheers and applause as the lights came up at the end of the track. It was though he was the beating heart of a party, exclaiming what he was seeing from the stage and the fan reaction was ‘absolutely mental’.
Tom went on to plug the pre-order for his debut album (Out on March 9, 2018) and introduced a new track “Lighting Matches“. His stage presence was effortless and his showmanship was far beyond his 22 years, it was though he has been performing to crowds like this all his life, his confidence faultless.
The lights transitioned from a red to a teal spotlight as he introduced his track “Old Songs“. It was simplistic with an almost folk style opening, taking it back to basics with just him and an acoustic guitar, his vocals were gritty and his songwriting truthful.
He could work the crowd with every song, his strong personality made the show entertaining through all the track transitions. He apologised for his ‘potty mouth’ but treated the audience like they were his mates with cheeky banter that coincided with his overall image and vision as an artist.
Although he gave off a confident character, the next track “Lucky Ones” reflected so much more and revealed a more sentimental side, his vocals soared and the addition of the strings created an epic atmosphere, reminding me of the penultimate moment in a film where two lovers are reunited, it’s so perfectly sync-able.
Between tracks, he spoke to the fans constantly, humour coming to him so naturally. You could see how truly grounded and grateful he was, thanking the audience for allowing him to continue growing in venue size as he joked “its the only place I can grow an inch”. You can see that Tom Grennan is on the verge of making his break in the industry exclaiming “This next ones a banger so lets ‘av it” as the band behind him erupted into a heat-pounding groove.
I felt the track really reflected his personality, the orchestral additions and backing vocalists adding to the immense production. The brass section infused the jazz style influences, it was fun and smooth his raspy vocals adding a slight rock feel, he combines a number of genres within his style which is definitely his unique selling point as an artist. As a whole the rising talent of male artists breaking through into the industry at the moment is really special.
It is without a doubt that Grennan has honed his sound, the next track “Giving It All” is a popular track from his EP Releasing The Brakes and was an obvious crowd favourite.
He has the perfect balance between the modernism of laid back and effortlessly cool vocals of someone like Rag’N’Bone man combined with soulful and bluesy influences of ‘St. Paul and the Broken Bones’. He worked the tiered venue of KOKO so fluently, the crowd were constantly at ease and he would fit so perfectly in a venue such as Ronnie Scott’s which would allow the audience to get up close and personal.
I cannot emphasise enough, his ability to work the stage and the crowd. It was as though he had walked out at his own party, and that it was about treating his guests, not about eyes being on him. However he has a head-turning presence, I could imagine he oozed positivity as he entered any room, it was undeniably electric.
Next was the song that arguably gained his recognition in the industry. “All Goes Wrong” originally with Chase and Status, however he performed a beautifully orchestral version, the arrangement thought through so carefully from instrumentation to the dimly lit yellow lighting. He was loving life as the volcanic call and response from the audience echoed around KOKO and gave off an authentic gang vocal backing support.
He went for the traditional encore style but laid it out on the table, bantering as he exclaimed “I’m gonna go off stage and then come back because you know thats gonna happen”, the crowd cheering in response. Everyone was soaking the atmosphere surrounding them, a few beverages certainly been drunk at this point, the crowd was tipsy as everyone sung back to his next track “Praying“.
I felt like he had climbed on the table at a house party, entertaining his mates. The excited crowd began shouting ‘we want more’ as he returned backstage after a blackout. He returned to deafening celebrations, his fans not faltering with enthusiasm at any moment.
He returned with “Sweet Hallelujah” dedicating it to a fan who had flow from Korea to see him. It was stripped back and gritty. It felt really authentic, his whole persona so natural and not a production of his label. His distinctive vocals flying high ringing out magically across the venue, the lights came up across standing, revealing the crowd as he held the final note, the crowd respecting his talent and performance with admirable cheers.
Next was his feisty, punchy track “Found What I’ve Been Looking For” the drums really at the forefront driving the track forward. He got out his phone to snapchat the crowd showing his fun youthful side, just a quirky 22 year old enjoying an amazing opportunity and continuing on the party.
You could tell he was a real family guy shouting out to his Dad and Grandma, as he said “I’m flying the Grennan flag, I’ve got my name on the merch”. He thanked his band before finishing on “Something In The Water“, his most streamed track on Spotify. It was a real crowd pleaser, as he belted out his vocals and the crowd held their torch lights in the air. The band came together in unison smashing out an epic finisher as he banged his chest in rowdy excitement on the last note.
It is without a doubt that, with his charm and outgoing personality combined with his diverse vocal range and talent, Tom Grennan will have a successful solo career. The gig allowed his dedicated fans to see how far he has already come whilst also giving them a taste of his future, before the release of his debut album in March.
If you want some groove, some soul and a large amount of banter Tom Grennan should be on your radar. His indisputable stage presence will guide him through his exciting future within the industry. Keep tabs on Grennan on Facebook, Twitter and his website.
Setlist: Royal Highness / Make ‘em Like You / Lighting Matches / Old Songs / Lucky Ones / Aboard / Giving It All / Run in the Rain / Barbed Wire / All Goes Wrong / Praying / Sweet Hallelujah / Found What I’ve Been Looking For / Something in the Water
Words by Jodie Brunning
Jodie Brunning
I'm Jodie. I'm a Music Business Graduate and I am interested in a career in Music Management and A&R. As someone who has always enjoyed songwriting in my spare time I thought blogging about the happenings of the Music Industry would be a great new way to get 'pen to paper'. Follow my Instagram @jodiebrunning to find my highlight reel of anything from burgers to quotes to music related antics!
Latest posts by Jodie Brunning (see all)
WPGM Interviews: MOLI – Learning Patience, Classical Influences And ‘Resume’ EP - September 14, 2018
WPGM Interviews: Bloxx – ‘Curtains’, Dream Festival Gigs And Writing About Ex-Girlfriends - August 9, 2018
WPGM Reviews: IAMDDB Live At Latitude Festival 2018 - July 28, 2018
Posted in: Live Reviews, Reviews
Tagged: All Goes Wrong, Found What I’ve Been Looking For, Giving It All, KOKO, Lighting Matches, Live Review, Live Reviews, Lucky Ones, Old Songs, Praying, Releasing The Brakes, Releasing The Brakes EP, Royal Highness, Something In The Water, Sweet Hallelujah, Tom Grennan, Tom Grennan At KOKO Live Review, Tom Grennan Live At KOKO, Tom Grennan Live At KOKO Review, Tom Grennan Live Review, WPGM Live Review, WPGM Live Reviews, WPGM Review, WPGM Reviews, WPGM Reviews Tom Grennan Live At KOKO
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https://www.westport-news.com/news/article/Letter-Not-buying-Landon-s-reason-for-funds-5750184.php
Letter: Not buying Landon's reason for funds shuffle
Published 11:24 am EDT, Friday, September 12, 2014
In 2012, I became aware of some contract completion issues with the Kings Highway School HVAC project. I conveyed that to Westport's internal auditor, Lynn Scully, since Lynn was reviewing capital projects in general.
On Aug. 18, 2014, Lynn reported to the Board of Finance Audit Committee. I attended. I was upset and troubled to hear that (i) School Superintendent Elliot Landon had used $1.65 million of school operating funds to pay a capital cost overrun and (ii) Dr. Landon did not advise any town body or elected official of that fact.
At that meeting, Dr. Landon referred to an executive session of the Board of Education and the Board of Finance in what seemed to me his attempt to suggest -- wrongly I note -- that the finance board knew about this misuse of operating funds to pay a capital expense. I then emailed the members of the RTM advising them of all this and urged their engagement.
I could not attend the Sept. 3 finance board meeting. Apparently, only one person from the public spoke, Allen Bomes, an RTM member. The Westport News quotes Allen as saying he felt "violated." The Westport News reported that Dr. Landon justified his actions as an "emergency situation" and in the best interest of the students and the town.
I have come not to believe many of Dr. Landon's statements. The above is one. A second was when he told the RTM last May that a proposed $200,000 reduction in the school budget would most probably require the elimination of school bus monitors. A third occurred at that same RTM meeting when Dr. Landon referred to a published item which he said reported that Westport town employees are the highest paid public employees in Connecticut. The article had nothing to do with public employees. Another inaccurate statement arose two years ago as to the reasons for a new running rack at Staples High School. I believe many of the public will recall other similar misstatements and non-disclosures by Dr. Landon.
Dr. Landon's employment contract expires on June 30, 2016. By July 1, 2015, the school board is obligated to vote if it wants to offer Dr. Landon a new contract. Absent a vote, Dr. Landon's term as superintendent will expire on June 30, 2016. The public should weigh in on this decision. My view is that Westport will need a new superintendent of schools. My preference would be as soon as possible.
Don Bergmann
2 people injured after Westport motor-vehicle crash
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West Surrey Tennis Club
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Photo of the winning team after their defeat of Onslow Village LT Club and securing their promotion to Division 1 (L-R) Ian Simpkin, Ken Hogan, Paul Jameson, Duncan Foster, Neil Howard
View Chaucer league results
When I delivered my report to you last year I was optimistic about the future of men's tennis at West Surrey Tennis Club. Well, that optimism has been well rewarded with excellent performances from our men's teams.
Last summer we entered two teams in the Chaucer League, both being in the same division.
The Men's 1st team won the division, with the 2nds finishing in a credible 3rd position and only narrowly missing out on a promotion place.
Ironically, the only match that the 1sts lost was to the 2nds in a marathon session that went on long after anything that could have been reasonably predicted!
Cold & windy weather
During the winter, we entered one team into the Aldershot & District Lawn Tennis League, and after some early close matches, the team shifted into overdrive and won the remainder of their matches convincingly to win the division and have been promoted to Division 1.
Some of the weather conditions our men played in were difficult to say the least, indeed, we had to postpone and rearrange a number of fixtures, and, as I witnessed for myself when I went to support them in their final match away against Onslow Village. It was particularly cold and windy and I wimped out and retreated to the clubhouse to watch the rubbers from there. We needed to win well to guarantee promotion and the team did not let me down winning 8 sets to love, meaning that the second placed team could not catch them.
I also observed great camaraderie amongst the players and a real determination to win!
I will not embarrass the players by naming them individually, they know who they are. However, I would like to thank them all for their commitment as well as congratulating them for their excellent performances, and for raising the profile of West Surrey Tennis Club.
Organised tennis sessions...
During the winter months we experimented with organised tennis evenings on a Tuesday evening. Emily introduced this to the club, and this year we tweaked her ideas to try and create a programme of play where priority would be given to those members playing in club matches. In addition, our club coach Mike facilitated some drills sessions which were designed to help our players tune-up their skills with routines that just playing tennis does not always provide.
I have sought feedback from our players regarding the organised tennis evenings and drills sessions, which, overwhelmingly supports their continuation not just throughout the winter but also the summer.
The feedback has suggested that organised evenings have contributed to the success of our teams because it has focussed on match practice and allows team players to play together in their pairings before a match.
Because players know in advance that they will be ‘matched up’ in a predetermined time slot they have said that they are more likely to turn up and play, even when the weather forecast is poor. Indeed, only last Tuesday, matches were being played in the rain because of the commitment to turn up that organised evenings tends to encourage. As well as this, court utilisation and player attendance have increased.
Additional teams...
I hope to be able to enter 2 teams in the winter league next year.
Finally, I would like to thank my fellow committee members for their collective contributions in improving the situation the tennis club now finds itself in. Last year there was some uncertainty over the future of our club, and I now know that we are in a much happier position, which I can tell you has not come about by chance.
The Golf Club board have also been very positive in its desire to improve their relationship with the tennis club and they should also be congratulated for their efforts.
Personally, I think our club is in a good position and we should all benefit from the efforts that have been made behind the scenes on our behalf.
Carlton Crathern
Men's Captain
Aldershot & District league - Rankings
Chaucer Division 3 - Men's Past Winners
LADIES'
Ladies' Captain, Denise Woods reported the midweek ladies team came second to David Lloyd, Woking, by just one point. Unfortunately the ladies had to withdraw one team from the Surrey Winter League, due to other commitments and the remaining team still has one more game to play and hopes to retain it's place in division 8. The midweek ladies have been promoted again and are now in division 4, having won over Team Will to Win from Sheen, by just one point. Many thanks to Emily for looking after the first team.
Chaucer Ladies Midweek - Past Winners
Mixed Captain, David Layard-Horsfall reported that two teams were entered in the Chaucer League. The second team did very well with Neil Howard and Mel Redman being promoted to the top league. He reiterated the positive impact Mike Henry’s input has had on team performance.
Chaucer Division 2 - Mixed - Winners
Coaching | Membership | Committee | Club Rules | Charity Days | Contact us and directions | Guests | Club Kit
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Many Mt. Gox investors now have no hope to recover their cash
A class-action lawsuit brought against the Bitcoin trading post has been dismissed, leaving investor hopes in ashes.
By Charlie Osborne for Between the Lines | May 19, 2016 -- 11:22 GMT (04:22 PDT) | Topic: Banking
The hopes of almost 100 former Mt. Gox investors from Canada are now in the dust thanks to the dismissal of a class-action lawsuit launched in hope of recovering money lost through the Bitcoin exchange.
When popular Bitcoin trading post-Mt. Gox unexpectedly closed its doors in February 2014, millions of dollars' worth of the virtual currency Bitcoin went down with it.
Mt. Gox CEO Mark Karpeles originally blamed the closure on a devastating cyberattack, but as the story unfolded, Karpeles was arrested in Japan and accusations of fraud were levied against the executive.
Mt. Gox filed for bankruptcy in both the US and Japan -- where the trading post was registered -- and Karpeles came under suspicion after 200,000 Bitcoin were recovered from a "misplaced" wallet. The former CEO is still being held by Japanese authorities and an investigation into embezzlement and fraud is ongoing.
The saga affected users of the Bitcoin trading post worldwide and several class-action lawsuits were filed. Canadians were amongst the mix, and now it seems there is little chance of them ever receiving a cent.
According to the law firm representing these investors in the lawsuit, Charney Lawyers PC, the case will be dismissed (.PDF) on 17 June 2016.
"This action will be dismissed on consent of all parties," the statement reads. "Claims are not proceeding against any party."
The class-action lawsuit originally set out to claim $500 million in compensation against Mt. Gox, parent company Tobanne, the Mt. Gox chief, Mt. Gox's former bank, Tokyo-based Mizuho and the website's founder Jed McCaleb.
However, the ongoing disputes and charges against various parties across the US and Japan have made the situation complicated, and Canadian law has made the possibility of a victory uncertain.
Should the case have been pushed forward and lost, it could have made the former investors bankrupt as they would be required to pay the court fees.
The lawyer handling the case, Ted Charney, shed some light on the decision to withdraw the claim. Talking to Motherboard, the lawyer said:
"In Canada, if you lose a case then you pay the winner's cost, and in this case, the cost would have been in the millions of dollars [...] unfortunately the realities of this litigation, with everybody going bankrupt, and the remaining parties being in Japan, made it very problematic."
Former investors do have the option to file individual lawsuits, but these are no longer the responsibility of the law firm and so must be done so in accordance with the jurisdiction of the person's home.
Considering how long the saga has continued, time may be running out -- but this is the only option left for investors who wish to take Karpeles to task.
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Liam Jones
Liam Jones of Carlton Blues contract information, AFL news, stats and rumours.
Carlton Blues ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
2010 (Western Bulldogs) 37 10 47 20 0 8 5 11 6 2
2011 (Western Bulldogs) 136 60 196 96 34 20 10 38 19 10
2012 (Western Bulldogs) 75 33 108 41 3 11 13 19 9 9
2013 (Western Bulldogs) 107 54 161 77 9 24 13 28 22 15
2014 (Western Bulldogs) 59 41 100 35 13 12 9 19 12 4
2015 (Carlton) 46 19 65 31 0 12 7 18 7 9
2016 (Carlton) 44 34 78 24 0 9 6 17 9 7
2017 (Carlton) 95 40 135 56 0 18 13 34 0 0
2018 (Carlton) 124 56 180 92 9 13 18 39 0 1
Blues to unveil debutant against Swans as key defender re-signs
Blues suffer another injury to key back
Blues lose Fisher, Jones to season-ending injuries
Bolton provides update on Zac Fisher, Liam Jones injuries
Liam Jones re-signs with Carlton
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‘MDC won’t compensate anyone’
0 January 20, 2019 6:40 AM
Source: 'MDC won't compensate anyone' | Daily News
HARARE – MDC Alliance said it will not compensate anyone for the damages incurred during the national stay-away.
The party’s vice president Morgen Komichi told the Daily News that his party was not behind the crippling protests. This comes after government blamed MDC-Alliance and its alleged allies for organising demonstrations that turned into an orgy of violence, arson and looting.
National Security minister of State Owen Ncube said those whose property was destroyed and goods looted should quantify damages and report to the nearest police station.
“Government places responsibility for compensation for victims of the violence, destruction of property, injury and loss of life on the MDC-Alliance and all its associates,” Ncube said at a press briefing.
He claimed the MDC-Alliance’s Democratic Resistance Committee (DRC) and their alleged paramilitary wing, the Vanguard, allegedly led the “highly organised criminal activities” during the unrest.
However, Komichi said the stay-away was planned by angry and frustrated Zimbabweans who are tired of suffering, and said the MDC will not be compensating anyone.
“None of the MDC leaders called for a stay-away and we can’t be labelled as having organised the shutdown merely because we are political leaders. We are also citizens and we are affected by the same problems that the rest of the Zimbabweans were protesting against.
“When we want to call for action, we call for press conferences and post on social media but we did not announce the stay-away because it was organised by aggrieved citizens and not MDC,” Komichi said.
He added that Zanu PF is the reason why people took to the streets therefore government is to be held liable to claims by members of the public whose property was lost.
Komichi said if the ruling party cares about the people, it should take responsibility for the damages and approach and engage its people with love.
“They should stop obligating the governance of the country to MDC and take responsibility for their actions. They are indirectly handing over power to president Nelson Chamisa because they have failed the people.
the latest articles 56658 MDC Alliance 1576 Morgen Komichi 54 Nelson Chamisa 1945 zanu pf 3011
‘Violence hindering women participation in politics’
Govt deports SA journalists
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26 Women Today
Spectrum FAQ
Augusta, Gold Cross battle continues with little progress in sight
By Staff |
Posted: Tue 5:09 PM, Jun 11, 2019 |
Updated: Tue 8:06 PM, Jun 11, 2019
News 12 at 6 O'Clock/NBC at 7
AUGUSTA, GA (WRDW/WAGT) -- A long battle between the city and Gold Cross seemed to be nearing its end, but plans reversed course Tuesday in the Augusta-Richmond County Commission.
Will the city work with Gold Cross? No, but the motion that passed only acknowledged contract terms do exist. However, there was no agreement on committing to the actual contract.
So, here are some of the terms: the Augusta Fire Department and the city would share 911 calls. Whoever is closest to the emergency would respond.
The city would give Gold Cross at least $600,000 in subsidy every year. Gold Cross will also dedicate 8 ambulances solely to Augusta on a 24-hour, seven days a week basis. Meanwhile, the fire department would use its three ambulances.
None of the terms were discussed in commission. Leaders supposedly talked about it during a private legal meeting. That’s when the city decided to ditch future negotiation meetings.
"Well, on the advice of our attorney and maybe our procurement director, it's best if Augusta doesn’t take any action at this particular time, so that's what we're doing,” Commissioner Bill Fennoy said.
For now, nothing changes. If you call 911 for a medical emergency, Gold Cross will still show up. It’ll remain that way until a contract resolution is place with the fire department.
Copyright 2019 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved
Weekend events happening across the CSRA: May 10-12
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Saudis Send Force to Bolster Bahrain
Angus McDowall,
Alex Delmar-Morgan And
Adam Entous
Updated March 15, 2011 12:01 am ET
MANAMA, Bahrain—Saudi military forces in tanks and armored personnel carriers crossed the 16-mile causeway into the tiny island kingdom of Bahrain to defend the Sunni monarchy against a Shiite revolt, raising the specter of sectarian clashes and heightened conflict with Iran.
The deployment, against U.S. wishes, compounded Washington's struggle for sway in the Arab world on a day when Col. Moammar Gadhafi's military threatened to encircle rebel forces in eastern Libya, and the international community continued to debate taking...
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Yankees use bases-loaded walk to beat Orioles 6-5 for sweep
By: DAVID GINSBURG, AP Sports Writer
Updated: May 23, 2019 - 5:01 PM
BALTIMORE (AP) - Perhaps figuring that Gleyber Torres and Gary Sanchez were worn out from circling the bases, Yankees manager Aaron Boone wrote out a starting lineup without both sluggers in the finale of a four-game series against the Baltimore Orioles.
The benefit of such a move was that both were available when Boone really needed them.
Torres and Sanchez fueled a ninth-inning uprising that featured a bases-loaded walk, and New York pulled out a 6-5 victory Thursday to complete a sweep of the Orioles, who found yet another way to lose.
After combining to hit 19 home runs against Baltimore this season, Torres and Sanchez watched from the dugout following a quick turnaround from a game on Wednesday night. Boone finally called for the duo after Mychal Givens struck out the first two batters in the ninth with the score tied.
Torres drew a walk and Sanchez singled before Givens walked DJ LeMahieu to load the bases. After going 3-0 on Aaron Hicks, Givens got two strikes before missing badly outside .
That sent Torres to the plate for the pivotal run and moved Sanchez to third.
"Obviously, you always like when they're in the lineup but to have them sitting over there in that spot was nice," Boone said. "They were up hitting getting ready, getting prepared for that at-bat right there, and they went up and had good ones."
Clint Frazier and Luke Voit homered for the Yankees, who went deep 13 times during the series. New York has hit 35 home runs in going 10-2 against the Orioles, outscoring Baltimore 86-50.
Down 4-1 in the eighth, the Orioles mounted a surprising comeback. Two walks and an RBI single by Trey Mancini brought in Tommy Kahnle (2-0) from the bullpen, and Renato Nunez tied it with a three-run drive .
That merely delayed the inevitable - another Baltimore loss at the hands of New York. Some have been blowouts, others close, but the past nine have all had the same result.
"We're just not there yet," manager Brandon Hyde said.
In many of the previous defeats, the Yankees bludgeoned the Orioles into submission. In this one, Hicks didn't have to take the bat off his shoulder.
"I was looking to do damage (but) in those situations you've got to stay within yourself and do what you can to help the team," Hicks said.
Zack Britton worked the ninth for his second save.
Baltimore has lost six straight. The Orioles own both the worst record in the majors (15-35) and at home (6-19).
"We're in a mode right now of 'let's see what we have' and the next thing is developing to win and winning close games," Hyde said.
Yankees starter Masahiro Tanaka gave up one run and five hits in six innings. Coming off a start against Tampa Bay in which he took a line drive off the shin, Tanaka was hit by a comebacker off the bat of Rio Ruiz in the second. Boone said the ball hit the pitcher's hand, and drove it back into his chest.
Tanaka picked up the ball and threw wildly to first to help Baltimore take a 1-0 lead.
The Yankees were far more concerned about his health than the run. Fortunately, the right-hander needed only a few practice throws before resuming his domination of the Orioles.
A solo shot by Frazier in the fifth inning evened the score, and Gio Urshela chased Orioles starter Dylan Bundy with a two-run single in the sixth.
ROSTER MOVE
The Orioles optioned OF Joey Rickard to Triple-A Norfolk after the game and will probably activate OF Keon Broxton on Friday. Broxton was acquired from the Mets on Wednesday in a trade.
Yankees: LHP CC Sabathia was placed on the 10-day IL with right knee inflammation. Boone hopes treatment and rest will solve the issue and cost the pitcher just one start. ... RHP Dellin Betances (shoulder) threw 120 feet from flat ground before the game. ... SS Troy Tulowitzki (calf), sidelined since April 3, is gearing up for game action and Boone said he will likely know where and when that should be by this weekend. ... SS Didi Gregorius (elbow) had six errorless chances in the field Thursday during an extended spring training game against the Phillies.
Yankees: Having won six straight series, New York takes aim at the Royals in a three-game set that begins Friday with the Yankees' starting pitcher yet to be named.
Orioles: John Means (5-4, 2.68 ERA) helps Baltimore launch interleague play with a matchup in Colorado on Friday night.
Jersey cop who overdosed on heroin in patrol car pleads guilty, loses job
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Cooled Thermal Camera Systems
Sierra Pacific July 20, 2016 Long range thermal flir imaging, Long Range PTZ Thermal FLIR zoom imaging camera, Cooled Thermal Camera 2 Comments
Cooled thermal camera systems are the clear choice for long range imaging. This is due to the highly sensitive FPA technology they employ. Typically, a cooled thermal camera will utilize either InSb or MCT sensor materials. These are very good materials for a thermal array in the 3-5 micron range. However, Focal Plane Arrays made from these materials do require cryogenic cooling in order to function at their peak performance level. That is why they are called “cooled thermal camera” systems. But, when these exotic sensor materials are combined with an appropriate cooling system, the result is a thermal imaging system that boasts MRTD’s on the order of 20mk or less. In practical terms this equates to 3-4 times the sensitivity of uncooled thermal camera systems. The sensitivity of cooled sensors, allows us to use much smaller lenses (f/4-f/5.5). It follows that, given a certain envelope of space, we can fit a much longer focal length lens into a cooled thermal camera design than any other technology would allow. When ultimate distance matters, long range cooled thermal camera systems are the only option.
Cooled Thermal Camera Sensor Types
Exotic materials are used to produce the focal plane array sensors that are used in cooled thermal cameras. The most common are Indium Antimonide (InSb) and Mercury Cadmium Telluride (HgCdTe).
The InSb (commonly referred to as Ins-Bee or reticulated insb) sensor material is a narrow gap semiconductor in crystaline form. It is sensitive to wavelengths of 1µm to 5µm but is typically filtered, in cooled thermal camera systems, to 3µm to 5µm. InSb detectors have long been the leading choice for imaging systems that feature long range thermal optics. It is a reliable and mature sensor technology that is manufactured in various countries around the world. The InSb detector does require cryogenic cooling to operate at peak efficiency and produce a usable thermal image. In the past ,this was accomplished by a dewar that needed to be filled with Liquid Nitrogen. The dewars are long gone. Now,highly efficient cryo coolers manage the task of cooling down to ~80°K.
The M9 Cooled MWIR Camera System uses InSb Detectors and is the pinnacle of cooled Long Range thermal camera systems, The Unit has extremely long range cooled MWIR lenses which
provides Very long range detection Ranges up to 60 Kilometers
The HgCdTe (commonly referred to as MCT or Mer-Cad) sensor material is a narrow direct bandgap zincblende. MCT sensors are tuned to operate in wavelengths from 1µm all the way to 14µm. They are a versatile sensor material. Unlike InSb sensors, MCT sensors produce cooled thermal camera systems that access both atmospheric transmission windows of 3µm to 5µm and 7µm to 14µm. Most people think of cooled cameras as always being MWIR (3µm-5µm). MCT materials produce a cooled thermal camera that is MWIR or LWIR (7µm to 14µm). MCT focal plane arrays also require cryogenic cooling to ~80°K.
HOT HgCdTe (The New Kid On The Block)
Hot MCT is a relatively new technology utilizing Mer Cad based sensors. The new “HOT” sensors operate at warmer temperatures than the InSb and traditional HgCdTe chips. Instead of cooling to 80°K the HOT MCT only needs to be cooled to 160°K. In practical terms this greatly reduces the load on the cryo cooler. This creates a cooled thermal camera that starts up faster, has a longer cooler lifespan and uses less power. This is fantastic for SWaP efforts. The Hot MCT is a new development that is very promising but only time will tell if it proves to be the future of cooled thermal.
In conclusion, cooled thermal camera systems incorporate different sensor materials but offer distinct advantages when used in long range and ultra long range thermal imaging platforms. The key is the increased sensitivity and smaller lens sizes. Next time, we will discuss lens options for your cooled thermal camera.
SPI long range cooled MWIR thermal camera with laser range finder-SPI
UP NEXT COOLED THERMAL CAMERA LENSES >>>
Examples of systems using the above technology. This is only a partial list of whats possible with cooled thermal imaging. Review the site for more options or contact us to discuss thermal imaging. Thats what we do here. Make sure you tune in next time for a complete review of lens and optical systems for long range thermal camera systems.
M9 cooled thermal camera long range platform
3-5µm MWIR cooled FLIR camera module
Panoramic cooled MWIR 360 persistent surveillance thermal camera
MILCAM long range handheld FLIR cooled thermal camera
FLIR thermacam cooled camera PDM
cooled thermal image of a plane
cooled thermal camerainsbmcthgcdtemwirlwirhot mct
SPI Corp announces the Longest Range Cooled Thermal Camera with a whopping 2550mm efl lens. The biggest hurdle in todays long range imaging is the ability to get a big enough lens to really break through the 25km human identification barrier. Even, highly sensitive cooled sensors require relatively fast lenses at f/4 or f/5 and uncooled thermal cameras need ridiculously fast optics on the order of f/1. SPI Corp is proud to announce a new breakthrough in cooled thermal camera system integration that will shatter the 25km barrier and should produce human detection at unheard of 30-40km ranges or more. By leveraging 20 years of experience and industry breakthroughs, SPI Corp has leap frogged the competition to be the first manufacturer to offer thermal optics with an efl of 2550mm. But, that is just the beginning of the story.
Our breakthrough technology uses the latest in space derived sensor technology and new lens designs to bring customers not only longer range but lower price and increased reliability. We have pivoted from older technologies like reticulated InSb, Lattice Mesh Indium Antimonide and traditional HgCDTe sensors in favor of the future. The new sensor (in fab today) gives us all the sensitivity of the reticulated InSb but at a fraction of the power consumption and with more than double the expected lifespan. By reducing thermal load on the sensor support electro mechanical systems we can do more with far less. By coupling the new sensor technology with our exclusive lens package we can achieve an effective 2550mm focal length in a ground based cooled thermal camera system. This is almost double any competing system in the world. We are very excited about this new technology and the promise it has to make the world a safer place. We imagine M10 Ultra Long Range Thermal 2550 systems watching over every sea port, border and critical facility in the world. Low cost long range thermal imaging is now a reality. Advanced orders are being taken now for priority delivery. Contact SPI CORP for more information on this groundbreaking technology package.
All objects with an absolute temperature over 0 K emit infrared (IR) radiation. Infrared radiant energy is determined by the temperature and emissivity of an object and is characterized by wavelengths ranging from 0.76 (the red edge of the visible range) to 1000 μm (beginning of microwaves range). The higher the temperature of an object, the higher the spectral radiant energy, or emittance, at all wavelengths and the shorter the peak wavelength of the emissions. Due to limitations on detector range, IR radiation is often divided into three smaller regions based on the response of various detectors.SWIR: 0.9-1.7 μm
SWIR is also called the «reflected infrared» region since radiation coming from a light source is reflected by the object in a similar manner as in the visible range. SWIR imaging requires some sort of illumination in order to image an object and can be performed only if some light, such as ambient moon light or stars light is present. In fact the SWIR region is suitable for outdoor, night-time imaging.SWIR imaging lenses are specifically designed, optimized, and anti-reflection coated for SWIR wavelenghts. Indium Gallium Arsenide (InGaAs) sensors are the primary sensors used in SWIR, covering typical SWIR band, but can extend as low as 0.550 µm to as high as 2.5 µm.A large number of applications that are difficult or impossible to perform using visible light are possible using SWIR InGaAs based cameras: nondestructive identification of materials, their composition, coatings and other characteristics, Electronic Board Inspection, Solar cell inspection, Identifying and Sorting, Surveillance, Anti-Counterfeiting, Process Quality Control, etc… When imaging in SWIR, water vapor, fog, and certain materials such as silicon are transparent. Additionally, colors that appear almost identical in the visible may be easily differentiated using SWIR.MWIR: 3-5 μm / LWIR: 8-14 μm
MWIR and LWIR regions are also referred to as “thermal infrared” because radiation is emitted from the object itself and no external light source is needed to image the object. Two major factors determine how bright an object appears to a thermal imager: the object’s temperature and its emissivity (a physical property of materials that describes how efficiently it radiates). As an object gets hotter, it radiates more energy and appears brighter to a thermal imaging system. Atmospheric obscurants cause much less scattering in the MWIR and LWIR bands than in the SWIR band, so cameras sensitive to these longer wavelengths are highly tolerant of smoke, dust and fog.MWIR collects the light in the 3 μm to 5 μm spectral band. SPI’s MWIR cameras are employed when the primary goal is to obtain high-quality images rather than focusing on temperature measurements and mobility. The MWIR band of the spectrum is the region where the thermal contrast is higher due to blackbody physics; while in the LWIR band there is quite more radiation emitted from terrestrial objects compared to the MWIR band, the amount of radiation varies less with temperature (see Planck’s curves): this is why MWIR images generally provide better contrast than LWIR. For example, the emissive peak of hot engines and exhaust gasses occurs in the MWIR band, so these cameras are especially sensitive to vehicles and aircraft. The main detector materials in the MWIR are InSb (Indium antimonide) and HgCdTe (mercury cadmium telluride) also referred to as MCT and partially lead selenide (PbSe)
LWIR collects the light in the 8 μm to 14 μm spectral band and is the wavelength range with the most available thermal imaging cameras. In fact, according to Planck’s law, terrestrial targets emit mainly in the LWIR. LWIR systems applications include thermography/temperature control, predictive maintenance, gas leak detection, imaging of scenes which span a very wide temperature range (and require a broad dynamic range), imaging through thick smoke, etc… The two most commonly used materials for uncooled detectors in the LWIR are amorphous silicon (a-Si) and vanadium oxide (VOx), while cooled detectors in this region are mainly HgCdTe.
Thermal radiation principle
An object reacts to incident radiation from its surroundings by either absorbing, reflecting or transmitting the radiation incident upon it. Therefore:α + ρ + τ = 1α = absorption coefficient 0 < α < 1 ρ = reflection coefficient 0 < ρ < 1 τ = transmission coefficient 0 < τ < 1Kirchoff’s law At thermal equilibrium, the power radiated by an object must be equal to the power absorbedBlackbody A blackbody is defined as a perfect radiator which absorbs and re-radiates (as stated by Kirchoff’s law) all radiation incident upon it. For a Blackbody α=1, ρ=0, τ=0Blackbody spectral radiant emittance (Planck’s Law) The higher the temperature of an object, the higher the spectral radiant emittance (at all wavelengths) and the shorter the peak wavelength of the emissions. Emissivity describes the efficiency with which a material radiates infrared energy compared to a blackbody. Real-world objects have emissivity values between 0 and 1.00 and are selective radiators, i.e. their emissivity varies both with wavelength and temperature. Moreover emissivity is also dependent on emission angle, surface treatment and material thickness.In general, the duller and blacker a material is, the higher its emissivity. On the other hand, the more reflective a material is, the lower its emissivity. Therefore, the same material c an show extremely different emissivity values depending on the surface treatment. For example polished aluminium, which is highly reflective, has a much lower emissivity than anodized aluminium.Thermal imaging cameras calculate an object temperature by detecting and quantifying the emitted energy over the operational wavelength range of the detector. Temperature is then calculated by relating the measured energy to the temperature of a blackbody radiating an equivalent amount of energy according to Planck’s Blackbody Law. Because the emissivity of an object affects how much energy an object emits, emissivity also influences a thermal imager’s temperature calculation.Material Emissivity Human Skin 0,98 Water 0,95 Aluminium (polished) 0,10 Aluminium (anodized) 0,65 Plastic 0,93 Ceramic 0,94 Glass 0,87 Rubber 0,90 Cloth 0,95 Tab. 1: Emissivity values of common materialsAtmospheric windows Water vapor and gases that make up the Earth’s atmosphere tend to absorb infrared radiation coming form an object, which becomes therefore severly attenuated if radiation must be detected at great distances from the object.Thus, in order to detect the IR signal, one must use the so-called atmospheric windows (Fig. 3). Essentially two infrared atmospheric windows (bands) are available: the short/medium-wave windows spanning form 2 to 5,6 μm and the long-wave window, spanning from approximately 7,5 to 14 μm. Composition of detectors material is selected for sensitivity to one band.Types of infrared detectors An infrared detector is simply a transducer of radiant energy, converting radiant energy in the infrared band into a measurable form. There are many detector materials with response curves that fit within the above mentioned infared windows. Infrared detectors are classified into thermal types, that have no wavelength dependece, and quantum types that are wavelenght dependent.THERMAL / NON-QUANTUM TYPESThermal IR detectors include thermocouple, thermopile, bolometer, and pyroelectric detectors. Thermal detectors, as the name suggests, change their temperature depending upon the impacting radiation. The temperature change creates a voltage change in the thermopile and a change in resistance in the bolometer, which can then be measured and related to the amount of incident radiation. Thermal detectors are much slower (response time order of ms) than quantum detectors due to the self-heating required. One of the most attractive characteristics of thermal detectors is the equal response to all wavelengths. This contributes to the stability of a system that must operate over a wide temperature range. Another significant factor is that thermal detectors do not require cooling.A microbolometer is a specific type of bolometer, i.e. a detector that measures the power of electromagnetic radiation incident upon a material which possesses the specific property of changing its electrical resistance when heated. Basically, infrared radiation strikes the detector material, heating it, and thus changing its electrical resistance, which is then measured. Microbolometers detectors are used in thermal cameras operating in the LWIR (7.5 – 14 μm) range and do not require cooling. The two most commonly used materials are amorphous silicon (a-Si) and vanadium oxide (VOx). Advantages include: – Broad and flat response curve (wavelenght independent),- Do not require cooling,- Small and lightweight, allows compact camera designs, – Less expensive,- Low power consumption relative to cooled detector thermal imagers, – Very long MTBF (Mean Time Between Failures), while disadvantages are – Relatively low sensitivity (detectivity), – Slow response time (time constant 12 ms)QUANTUM TYPESQuantum detectors operate on the basis of an intrisic photoelectric effect and interact directly with impacting photons. These materials respond to IR radiation by absorbing photons that elevate the material’s electrons to a higher energy state, causing a change in conductivity, voltage or current.In materials used for quantum detectors, electrons are either in the conduction band, where they are free to move (and therefore conduct electrical current), or in the valence band, where they cannot move freely. When the material is cooled below a certain temperature, no electrons can be found in the conduction band and no electrical current is carried. In these conditions, when incident photons hit the material they stimulate electrons to move up into the conduction band, thus carrying a current which is proportional to the intensity of incident radiation. Since IR radiation has small energy when compared to Visibile or UV rays (energy is inversely proportional to wavelength), these detectors are cooled down to cryogenic temperatures in order to increase infrared detection efficiency/sensitivity. Cooling methods include Stirling cycle engines, liquid nitrogen and thermoelectric cooling (). Cooled thermal imaging cameras are the most sensitive type of cameras to small differences in scene temperature. Quantum detectors react very quickly to changes in IR levels (response time order of μs), however they have response curves with detectivity that varies strongly with wavelength. Cooled quantum detector materials include – InSb, – InGaAs, – PbS, – PbSe, – HgCdTe (MCT). Short-wave infrared (0.9 to 1.7 µm): mainly InGaAs detectors cover this region Mid-wave infrared (3 to 5 µm): covered by Indium antimonide (InSb), HgCdTe and partially by lead selenide (PbSe) Long-wave infrared (8 to 14 µm): this region is covered by HgCdTe and microbolometers IR detectors performance parameters Signal-to-noise ratio (S/N) Responsivity R Responsivity is the ability of the detector to convert the incoming radiation into an electrical signal. Responsivity measures the input–output gain of a detector system. In the specific case of a photodetector, responsivity measures the electrical output per optical input. Noise equivalent power (NEP) A photodetector produces some noise output with a certain average power even when it does not get any input radiation. This noise output is proportional to the square of the r.m.s. voltage or current amplitude. The noise-equivalent power (NEP) of a detector is the optical input power (P) which produces an additional output power identical to the noise power for a given bandwidth (Δf). In other words, the NEP is the light power required to obtain a signal to noise ratio S/N of 1, that is, the light level required to produce a signal current equivalent to the noise current. The units of NEP are watts per square root hertz. NEP indicates the lower limit of light detection: a smaller NEP corresponds to a more sensitive detector. Specific detectivity D* (D-star) D* is the photo sensitivity per unit active area of a detector. D* is conveniently used to compare the performances of various detector types since it is area-independent. D* is the signal-to-noise ratio at a particular electrical frequency, and in a 1 Hz bandwidth when 1 Watt of radiant power is incident on a 1 cm² active area detector. In other words it is equal to the reciprocal of the noise-equivalent power (NEP), normalized per unit area. P = Incident radiant power received by the detector [W] A = Detector active area [cm2] Δf = Noise bandwidth [Hz] S/N = Signal to Noise ratio In general the measurement conditions of D* are expressed in the format of D* (X, Y, Z), where X is the temperature [K] or wavelength [μm] of a radiant source, Y is the chopping frequency [Hz], and Z is the noise bandwidth [Hz]. The units of D* are centimeter-square root-hertz per watt, sometimes referred to as “Jones” units. The higher D*, the better the detector. D* values are very high Noise equivalente temperature difference NETD NETD is a widely used performance parameter that characterizes the sensitivity of thermal imaging sensors. NETD is the amount of incident signal temperature that would be needed to match the internal noise of the detector (such that the signal-to-noise ratio is equal to one). Essentially, it specifies the minimum detectable temperature difference. Typically NETD is expressed in units of Kelvin (K). Cooled infrared camera systems typically have low noise levels, in the range of 10 – 30mK. Uncooled infrared cameras systems are typically noisier, in the range of 30 – 120mK. One important parameter that needs to be taken into account when specifying the NETD value of a thermal imaging camera is the lens aperture (or f-number). In fact, the lens f-number will directly affect the sensitivity of the camera. NETD values of different detectors can be compared only by using a lens with the same f-number. Common infrared (IR) materials Zinc Selenide (ZnSe) Zinc Sulfide (ZnS) Zinc Sulfide MultiSpectral (ZnS MS) Germanium (Ge) Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) Silicon (Si) Optical coatings ANTI-REFLECTIVE AR COATING Anti-reflective (AR) coatings are thin films applied to surfaces to reduce their reflectivity through optical interference. An AR coating typically consists of a carefully constructed stack of thin layers with different refractive indices. The internal reflections of these layers interfere with each other so that a wave peak and a wave trough come together and extinction occurs, leading to an overall reflectance lower than that of the bare substrate surface. Anti-reflection coatings are included on most refractive optics and are used to maximize throughput and reduce ghosting. Perhaps the simplest, most common anti-reflective coating consists of a single layer of Magnesium Fluoride (MgF2), which has a very low refractive index (approx. 1.38 at 550 nm) HARD CARBON ANTI-REFLECTIVE HCAR COATING HCAR is an optical coating commonly applied to Silicon and Germanium designed to meet the needs of those applications with optical elements exposed to harsh environments, such as military vehicles and outdoor thermal cameras. This coating offers highly protective properties coupled with good anti-reflective performance, protecting the outer optical surfaces from high velocity airborne particles, seawater, engine fuel and oils, high humidity, improper handling, etc.. It offers great resistance to abrasion, salts, acids, alkalis, and oil. ATHERMALIZATION Any material is characterized by a certain temperature expansion coefficient and responds to temperature variations by either increasing or decreasing its physical dimensions. Thus, thermal expansion of optical elements might alter a system’s optical performance causing defocusing due to a change of temperature. An optical system is athermalized if its critical performance parameters (such as Modulation Transfer Function, Back Focal Length, Effective Focal Length, …) do not change appreciably over the operating temperature range. Athermalization techniques can be either active or passive. Active athermalization involves motors or other active systems to mechanically adjust the lens elements’ position, while passive athermalization makes use of design techniques aimed at compensating for thermal defocus by combining suitably chosen lens materials and optical powers (optical compensation) or by using expansion rods with very different thermal expansion coefficients that mechanically displace a lens element so that the system stays in focus (mechanical compensation). Basic optics definitions FOCAL length d = Focal Plane Array diagonal (mm), f = focal length (mm), FOV = field of view (degrees). FOV is the angular subtense (expressed in angular degrees or radians per side if rectangular, and angular degrees or radians if circular) over which the optical system will integrate all incoming radiant energy. According to the above formula, as the focal length increases, the field of view for that lens will be narrower and viceversa. For instance, long range thermal infrared surveillance applications require long focal length lenses. F/# The f/number determines the light gathering power of the lens and therefore affects the sensitivity of the optics-camera system. The f/number of an optical system is the ratio of the focal length of the lens to the diameter of the front lens element. f = focal length A = diameter of the front lens element As the focal length of a lens is increased, the diameter of the front lens element must be increased to keep the system f/number constant. Sensitivity of IR cameras can be increased by choosing the appropriate lens. Uncooled cameras equipped with uncooled microbolometer detectors are typically less sensitive than cooled cameras equipped with quantum detectors. Therefore a camera equipped with a low-sensitivity detector must be run with a lens that has a low f/number (i.e. wide aperture) to have comparable sensitivity to a cooled camera. However, using such wide-aperture lenses limits the depth of field that can be obtained by the imaging system. In contrast, a cooled camera system can be operated at higher f/numbers without significantly compromising system sensitivity. Long range thermal infrared surveillance applications require long focal length lenses, and the cost of lenses increases rapidly with focal length for uncooled camera systems and rather slowly for cooled systems Spatial resolution Diffraction limits the resolution possible with an objective lens. Each point of the object to be viewed is imaged as a spot pattern called the an Airy disk. Its diameter is given by the following formula. Clearly, as the FN / wavelength increases, the resolution limit increases proportionally. Therefore, in order to achive a similar resolution limit, LWIR lenses working at λ = 10 μm will require a much lower FN (larger apertures) than MWIR lenses working at λ = 4 μm.
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16 of the Top Spas in Arizona
By Michelle Glicksman
16 of the Top Spas in Arizona By Michelle Glicksman
So many ways to say "ahh..."
The terrace at Joya Spa at Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia. (Courtesy Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia)
Looking to relax, renew and recharge? You've come to the right state—Arizona is known for its abundance of top spas. From traditional body treatments to facials to unique experiences, rest, relaxation and healing abound. Whether you're in Metro Phoenix, Northern Arizona or Southern Arizona, find your perfect "ahhh."
Scottsdale, Phoenix, Chandler, Carefree
Well & Being at Fairmont Scottsdale Princess
The 44,000-square-foot luxurious Well & Being spa at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess is a perfect fusion of spa and wellness. In addition to treatment rooms, find a eucalyptus inhalation room, steam room, Swedish dry sauna, whirlpool, cold plunge pool, waterfall grotto and a scenic rooftop pool to explore and enjoy, in addition to an atrium café and retail boutique. The design incorporates soothing pieces of Arizona, from its river-rocked tile to Sedona sandstone interiors and waterfalls inspired by the Grand Canyon’s Havasupai Falls.
In addition to spa treatments, the spa’s Live It Well programs utilize Wellness Coaches who create a customized blueprint for fitness and nutrition, combined with pampering and advanced skincare. Innovative offerings include aerial hammock yoga, Intraceuticals facials, singing bowl sound therapy, and a Himalayan salt stone massage. 7575 E. Princess Drive, Scottsdale
Aji Spa at Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass
This Forbes Four Star-rated spa is one of Arizona's top Native American spas, offering an authentic spa menu showcasing ancient cultures. The Indigenous Collection menu features treatments and activities designed and practiced by Aji's Pima and Maricopa Cultural Care Takers, and each cultural offering is subjected to an extensive approval process by Tribal Elders to ensure authenticity and respect of sacred doctrines.
Try the Thoachta ("Healing" by Belen Stoneman), a unique treatment that combines massage and ancient Pima healing doctrines, or the Ho'Ishp, a sacred prickly pear body treatment which utilizes a therapeutic steam capsule and sacred prickly pear red clay.
The luxurious 17,500-square-foot destination also includes a salon, fitness center, traditional American Indian roundhouse (used for meditation) and Watsu pool. Additionally, the cultures of the Pima and Maricopa tribes are found throughout the spa, in touches ranging from the artwork and architecture to the name. Aji means sanctuary in the Pima language. 5594 W. Wild Horse Pass Blvd., Chandler
Joya Spa at Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia
Stepping into Joya Spa at Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia begins a journey. Entering into the 31,000-square-foot, Moroccan-inspired spa leads to a greeting by a Joya Journey Coordinator. Note the Hand of Fatima—a symbol of protection in Morocco—amulets, wall and door hangings, which are meant to represent healing and well-being.
The first stop is to the Joy of Intention Room, where guests choose from one of five healing stones to set the tone for their day. Next, it's on to the Joy of Purification room, where a 55-pound quartz crystal is showcased. The crystal radiates light, and the space allows guests to release their stress. Spend the day enjoying spa amenities such as a rooftop pool, sauna, steam room, whirlpool and relaxation room.
Treatments at Joya include rituals, massages, facials, body treatments, wellness, naturopathic, fitness and salon services. Two of the most popular services include the Arnica & Hot Towel Massage and the Joya Signature Massage. 4949 E. Lincoln Drive, Scottsdale
Revive Spa at JW Marriott Desert Ridge
At this 28,000-square-foot spa at JW Marriott Desert Ridge, there are 41 treatment rooms, a eucalyptus steam room, dry sauna, indoor whirlpool, relaxation lounges, Olympic-size outdoor pool with outdoor whirlpool and celestial showers, the Revive Spa Bistro and a fitness center.
A two-story rotunda lobby with a waterfall greets guests, and a menu of massages, facials, body treatments and salon services promises relaxation. The signature treatments here combine ancient rituals with modern, cutting-edge techniques. Popular treatments include the Desert Ridge Facial With Foot Bath and the Turquoise Massage. 5350 E. Marriott Drive, Phoenix
Alvadora Spa at Royal Palms Resort and Spa
This cozy, Forbes Four Star-rated spa features just eight treatment rooms, several with indoor/outdoor courtyards. The luxurious, Mediterranean-inspired destination at Royal Palms Resort also includes a eucalyptus steam room, relaxation room, outdoor spa hot tub, boutique, fitness center, and access to the resort pool.
Many warm-weather elements like citrus, eucalyptus, juniper and lavender are incorporated into treatments, and the spa’s signature scent of neroli, an essential oil distilled from the blossom of the orange tree, is sweet and honeyed. One of the most popular treatments is Alvadora’s Signature Ritual. The Citrus Ritual begins in the Acqua Dolce room with a full-body exfoliation on heated stone tables while water gently cascades from above. Guests continue to relax in the garden tub and private patio area featuring a raindrop shower and fireplace. This ritual is completed with a gentle orange blossom moisturizing lotion application. Several therapies also incorporate the cascading outdoor 8-foot waterfall showers. 5200 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix
The Spa at Boulders Resort & Spa
Located in the serene Carefree area, The Spa at Boulders Resort & Spa offers 33,000 square feet of relaxation. Many treatments here utilize ingredients from the Boulders' desert environment, and the spa's amenities include steam and sauna rooms, an outdoor labyrinth for meditation, a pool, cafe, salon and fitness center.
Embrace the desert with the Desert Rose Radiance or Yuzu Sage Splash body treatments, or the Lotus Blossom massage or awaken your mind, body and soul with options such as Chakra Balancing and Astrological Soul Readings. Fitness offerings include a scenic guided hike and boulder climbing. 34631 N. Tom Darlington Drive, Carefree
Agave, The Arizona Spa at Westin Kierland Resort & Spa
Agave, The Arizona Spa at Westin Kierland Resort & Spa is named in honor of the indigenous agave plant, whose moisturizing properties are used in many of the spa's treatments. Treatments range from massages to body treatments to journeys to salon services, are inspired by traditional practices handed down through many of Arizona's native cultures. Other treatments use Westin Kierland's exclusive Herradura Double Barrel Reposado tequila, which the resort sources from Jalisco, Mexico. Those treatments include Tequila & Lime Body Glow and the Tequila & Lime Refresher Facial.
Located in a stand-alone building with its own courtyard (with cabanas for shaded enjoyment), this luxurious spa includes 20 treatment rooms, a movement studio, the WestinWORKOUT fitness studio, whirlpool, sauna, steam room, juice bar and lap pool. Further promoting relaxation, outside every treatment room is an Apache Burden Basket, where guests are invited to place their burdens to keep worries and troubles behind, just as the Apache people would traditionally do when entering their teepees. 6902 E. Greenway Parkway, Scottsdale
Spa Biltmore at Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
This 22,000-square-foot spa includes 17 treatment rooms, including two wet rooms for herbal wraps, a hydrotherapy tub, spa pools, steam rooms, dry saunas, power shower, whirlpool, salon and fitness center. Outdoors provides several cozy retreat areas, as well as cascading waterfalls. The spa offers a menu of luxury wellness concepts, including its signature treatment, Jewel of the Desert. The treatment is a nod to the Arizona Biltmore itself—open since 1929, the landmark location is often referred to as the “Jewel of the Desert.” The treatment incorporates seven luxurious oil blends, combined with varied massage techniques, to balance and nourish the mind. 2400 E. Missouri Ave., Phoenix
The Phoenician Spa at The Phoenician
Dedicated to relaxation, fitness, beauty and nutrition, this new three-story, nearly 40,000-square-foot luxurious destination is both nurturing and contemporary in its design, includes 24 treatments room, a quiet relaxation room, fitness center, movement studio, nail salon, Drybar (a blow dry salon) and a retail boutique. A rooftop pool offers 360-degree views of the resort, in addition to private cabanas for quiet relaxation and a menu of healthy cuisine. All treatments begin with an energy balancing ritual, setting the tone for an experience. Two popular signature spa treatments include the balancing and rejuvenating Sonoran Signature Scrub, Massage & Wrap and the GemStone Facial, in which crystals/gemstones are placed on and around the body for healing energy. 6000 E. Camelback Road, Scottsdale
The Spa at Camelback Inn at JW Marriott Camelback Inn
Situated at the base of Mummy Mountain, The Spa at Camelback Inn was one of the first in the country to offer a blend of all major spa components, from fitness to body and beauty treatments to healthful cuisine. The Southwestern spa spans 32,000 square feet and its amenities include hot tubs, cold plunge, steam rooms, saunas, sunbathing terraces, outdoor pool and Jacuzzi, salon, fitness center, retail boutique, and Sprouts wellness restaurant and juice bar. Treatments include facials, body wraps, massages, fitness options and more. 5402 E. Lincoln Drive, Scottsdale
L'Apothecary Spa at L'Auberge de Sedona
Nestled on the banks of Oak Creek in Sedona's Red Rock country, L'Apothecary Spa offers healing treatments inspired by nature's local beauty and healing properties, including products created from local ingredients. The lobby here was inspired by an old-fashioned apothecary, and guests are encouraged to choose from a variety of ingredients, herbs, oils and local botanicals to create customized bath soaks and body scrubs. Choose from treatments such as facials, body treatments, massages, integrative therapies, private yoga and meditation and sound healing. Signature nature-inspired options include Forest Bathing, where certified forest bathing facilitators lead guests through a walking meditation session, and Feet in the Creek, a creekside experience. 301 L'Auberge Lane, Sedona
Mii amo
There are two ways to enjoy this world-class destination spa set against the stunning red rock backdrop of Sedona—guests of Enchantment Resort can book a treatment or a day pass, or, stay at the spa itself with one of the 3-, 4- or 7-night all-inclusive experiences or for one of its retreats. Mii amo means "one's path or journey," and that's what guests find at this location. There are 16 luxurious guest rooms and suites; a variety of spa offerings ranging from massages to Native American-inspired therapies; a selection of fitness, health and art activities such as hikes, organic gardening, juicing, cooking classes and photography; fitness room; and both indoor and outdoor pools. 525 Boynton Canyon Road, Sedona
Amara Spa at Kimpton, Amara Resort and Spa
Located in the heart of uptown Sedona, this boutique retreat at Kimpton, Amara Resort and Spa offers massage and body treatments and facials. Signature treatments include a Guided Meditation; Rain Dance; and the Winds of Change, which includes Native rattles, smudging with sage, crystals and specialty crafted oils as part of an ancient healing ritual. Amenities include a relaxation room and steam rooms. 100 Amara Lane, Sedona
Canyon Ranch is more than just a spa—it's a luxurious health resort dedicated to life enhancement. Set on 150 acres in the foothills of Tucson's Santa Catalina Mountains, it melds richly landscaped interior grounds and surrounding desert acreage. The Spa complex comprises 80,000 square feet and includes a Pilates studio, indoor cycling studio, gym, squash and racquetball courts, a yoga/meditation studio, sauna, steam and inhalation rooms, whirlpools, private sunbathing areas, relaxation lounge and salon. The resort also features a Health & Healing Center and a Life Enhancement Center. Guests can take classes and have consultations in the realms of health and healing, fitness and movement, spa and beauty, and food and nutrition.
Treatments draw from both Eastern and Western spiritual traditions, using transformative, mindful and sacred practices to embrace the mind-body-spirit balance. One of Canyon Ranch's popular treatments is CR Aesthetics, which offers a selection of advanced, nonsurgical facial treatments, coupled with opportunities for pre- and post-care treatments. 8600 E. Rockcliff Road, Tucson
Miraval Arizona
This destination wellness spa resort sits on 400 acres in the shade of the Santa Catalina Mountains. All-inclusive, it offers more than 200 growth and development programs, more than 100 unique spa treatments, healthful cuisine and more. One of five Miraval locations in the U.S., this luxurious, all-inclusive destination both pampers and restores.
The 30,000-square-foot Life in Balance Spa includes both indoor and outdoor treatment rooms, Naga Thai studios, the Aqua Zen pool, saunas, steam rooms, hot tubs, a solarium, salon, quiet room and cafe. Treatments range from massages to energy healing. Other activities include equine options, immersive beekeeping experiences and mountain biking. 5000 E. Via Estancia, Tucson
The Ritz-Carlton Spa at The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain
Ancient therapeutic rituals are offered at the luxurious The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Dove Mountain at The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain. Calling upon Tucson's reputation for gems and minerals (the famous gem and mineral show takes place in Tucson), the 17,000-square-foot spa and fitness center incorporates a gem-themed interior design, with treatment rooms named after indigenous desert gems and minerals. Copper and turquoise accents are utilized throughout, as well.
Gemstone therapy is popular, with treatments such as the Desert Gemstone Ritual, Gemstone Healing Massage and Gemstone Radiance Journey. Other offerings include wellness counseling, body and anti-aging therapies. The freestanding indoor/outdoor spa, pool with a mid-pool tanning island, relaxation room, treatment cabanas, and a salon. 15000 N. Secret Springs Drive, Marana
Michelle Glicksman
Read Michelle's full bio
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9 Must-See Unique Roadside Attractions in Arizona
Must-See Museums in Phoenix
Top Shopping Destinations Around Phoenix and Scottsdale
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» North America Travel
» United States Travel
» New England Travel
How to Hike Mt. Monadnock Via the White Arrow Trail
Explore this Article Steps Ask a Question Related Articles References
With a bald rock summit rising 3,166 feet (965.0 m) above southern New Hampshire, Mount Monadnock offers views of New Hampshire, Vermont and Massachusetts. With some controversy, it is considered the world's most climbed or second most climbed mountain after Mt. Fuji in Japan. More than 60 poems have been written about it. Scores of paintings adorn museum walls with images of it.[1] Given the beautiful views the summit offers, it is no surprise that it draws a crowd of poets, artists, and hikers from around the world. The White Arrow trail is one of the most strenuous, but most direct routes to the summit.
Park at the old toll house trail head and pay the State Park entrance fee of $3.
Choose between the two different trail options to the spot of the old halfway house. One option is to walk up the wide, gravel Old Tollhouse Road pictured here. Another option is to take the Halfway House Trail. Both routes are of approximately equal distance, over parallel areas, but the trail offers a more "wilderness feel" and is the more recommended route.
Hike up the gentle sloping Old Halfway House Trail (or Old Tollhouse Road) to the Halfway House. You will pass a variety of deciduous trees and will see beautiful foliage if you do the hike in October.
Reach the site of the historic Halfway House. While the house is no longer there, the historical marker will remind you that you are about halfway in distance to the summit. That said, at this point the trail becomes much steeper and the real work is still ahead of you.
After leaving Halfway House, the trail will quickly turn steeper. At times it will be a staircase like series of rocks. As you climb, the trees will change from deciduous trees to evergreens till the point you eventually pass the timberline.
Climb till you reach above the timberline. The evergreen trees will give way to series of bushes and allow a view of the summit. While the summit looks tantalizingly close at this point, some relatively slow climbing over steep rock remains ahead.
At this point the trail becomes a bit less obvious and it helps to follow the white paint trail markings found on the rocks every 30 feet (9.1 m) or so.
Keep climbing past the false summit to the real summit. Enjoy the fantastic view.
Fit hikers moving reasonably fast can do the hike round trip in 2.5 - 4 hours. Allow about 2.5 hours for the climb up and 45 minutes or more for the descent.
From the parking lot, the total length of the hike is 2.5 miles (4.0 km) with a 1,700 foot (518.2 m) elevation gain. The average grade is 27%.[2]
During peak times, arrive early as parking spots are limited.
The trail becomes wet after a rain or during mud season. Parts of the trail can essentially turn into a waterfall occasionally. In cold weather, it may be icy or treacherous.
Bring enough supplies to complete the hike safely. The hike is strenuous and on a hot day the risk of dehydration is real. New Hampshire weather changes rapidly so bring clothes for warm and wet weather.
Improve Your Hiking Technique
Hike Safely
Climb a 14er
Survive in the Woods
Plan a Backpacking Trip
Prepare for a High Altitude Hike
Be Prepared for a Hike
Hike the Grand Canyon
Hike Diamond Head on Oahu, Hawaii
Start Barefoot Hiking
Prepare for Hiking the Appalachian Trail
Walk With Two Hiking Sticks
Buy a Hiking Pole
↑ http://www.monadnockmountain.com/
↑ http://www.qcc.mass.edu/brink/Trav-rec/mt_monad/mmwhite_arrowtr.html
Categories: Hiking | New England Travel
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Have your say on the future of culture and creativity in Wirral
By Lauren Jones Multimedia Reporter
Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram is hoping to create a strategy that will offer support for culture expression in the Liverpool City Region
WIRRAL residents and organisations are being urged to help shape the Liverpool City Region's future in creativity and culture.
Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram is hoping to create a strategy that will offer support for culture expression in the region's six boroughs - Wirral, Liverpool, Sefton, St. Helens, Halton and Knowsley.
A draft cultural strategy was published last week detailing the framework which will support activities and events in the local area and beyond.
Mr Rotheram said: “Culture was included in our devolution deal because it is such an important and distinctive aspect of our identity and what unites us a region.
"Culture and creativity are integral to our international profile and brand and integral to achieving the vision for a prosperous, fair and desirable place to live, work and invest.
“We are about to experience a fantastic year to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Liverpool’s European Capital of Culture.
"The commitment of the City, to culture, has been significant and once again will shine the spotlight on our city and city region.
“The strategy will build on that legacy, celebrating culture in all its aspects and reaching into and supporting creative expression in every community and borough.”
Recommendations in the draft strategy include an annual grassroots cultural awards programme and a 'borough' of culture' initiative to make sure each area can host a programme of events and celebrations.
Leader of Wirral Council Cllr Phil Davies, who holds the Culture portfolio in the City Region Combined Authority, said: “As the Combined Authority Lead for Economic Development and Culture, I have been determined to develop an ambitious and long-term strategy to further enhance the Liverpool City Region’s culture and creative sector.
"This sector is an essential driver in stimulating creative entrepreneurialism and is also instrumental in generating substantial growth for local, regional and national economies.
“Over the last few months we have spoken to hundreds of local people, groups and organisations in the creative sector who told us what they valued about culture, what was important to them, and what their ideas were for improving what we do.
“I am proud that this ambitious draft strategy captures those views and creates an important framework for delivering our exciting plans for growing the culture and creative sector across the Liverpool City Region.
"I encourage everyone to give us their ideas through our consultation over the next couple of weeks.”
Phil Redmond CBE
Formulated by the 'Local Cultural Partnership' and chaired by television producer and screenwriter Phil Redmond CBE, the draft is open for feedback until February 15 and can be viewed on the combined authority website.
Phil said: “The world is forever changing and no one is ever sure that the future will look like, especially the future world of work.
"Currently, change is probably happening at a faster pace than has even been seen before. That is why culture is so important.
"It’s what binds us all together. It’s the sum of all our creativity and the catalyst for change.
“But change needs to be managed and therefore needs a strategy that addresses the world of work.
"In the 21st Century how will the work-life balance shift and how can culture, as the catalyst for change, help us to understand far-reaching and rapid change?
"How will it help us to become flexible and adaptable? This requires a collective act.
"To remember our shared past, present and future - our collective culture. To remember where we came from. Remember what we already have. But above all, remember that the best is yet to come.”
The draft for the Culture and Creative Strategy can be found here http://liverpoolcityregion-ca.gov.uk/uploadedfiles/documents/DRAFT_LCR_Culture_Creativity_Strategy.pdf
All feedback and comments must be sent to LCRcultureandcreativity@knowsley.gov.uk by February 15.
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Lloyd Pittman | 492nd Bomb Group
2:37 | Lloyd Pittman was lucky enough to be among the first in his unit to be sent home from England after the fall of Germany. He had a nice leave back home but the war in the Pacific had him scheduled to learn to fly the B-29. (This interview made possible with the support of OLAF FRANK GOUCHIE.)
More From Lloyd Pittman
Keywords : Lloyd Pittman Consolidated B-24 Liberator pilot RAF Harrington Iceland midnight sun Randolph Field Texas Boeing B-29 Superfortress atomic bomb San Antonio TX Hondo TX Ken Murray
Lloyd Pittman | WWII | 492nd Bomb Group | 5:05
In the fall of 1942, Texas A&M student Lloyd Pittman took and passed the Army Air Corps tests for potential aviators. Like many, he was told to continue college for now, and like just as many, that didn't last and he was sent to training. He worked his way through a series of ever larger planes. (This interview made possible with the support of OLAF FRANK GOUCHIE.)
Lloyd Pittman got his wings in May of 1944 and began flight training in the B-24 bomber. Once the crew was assembled and the final exercises completed, he boarded a ship for England. Unlike many of his fellows, he enjoyed the trip. (This interview made possible with the support of OLAF FRANK GOUCHIE.)
Lloyd Pittman piloted a B-24 in the 492nd Bomb Group, a special operations unit that only flew at night. Beside high altitude bombing runs, they were called on to drop supplies to various underground organizations. While over Germany, they encountered radar controlled searchlights, which didn't have to search. (This interview made possible with the support of OLAF FRANK GOUCHIE.)
He flew an older D model B-24 on his first five missions. Lloyd Pittman had some tense times in that plane, including once when he readied the crew to bail out during a blinding storm. When he got a newer M model aircraft, it felt like driving a new car. (This interview made possible with the support of OLAF FRANK GOUCHIE.)
What was it like up there in that B-24? Well it was cold, really cold. Lloyd Pittman recalls the heated suits and the oxygen bottle you had to carry when you moved around the plane. They used the Norden bombsight, which was top secret technology. (This interview made possible with the support of OLAF FRANK GOUCHIE.)
He got through the war safely, but B-24 pilot Lloyd Pittman remembers a few times when others weren't so lucky. One morning he awoke to a disheartening sight at the adjacent tents. (This interview made possible with the support of OLAF FRANK GOUCHIE.)
After the war, B-24 pilot LLoyd Pittman was taking some supplies to Norway when the war weary plane he was flying lost an engine. The navigator steered them to Bergen, where a small air strip was their only chance. (This interview made possible with the support of OLAF FRANK GOUCHIE.)
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Penny Stone of the Victoria Humane Society got an email asking for help housing 20 animals rescued from the Interior. (Victoria Humane Society/Facebook)
20 cats rescued after B.C. man allegedly tries to strangle them
Rescued from the Interior, 15 kittens and five cats are now in the care of Victoria Humane Society
Kendra Crighton
Nina Grossman
Jul. 10, 2019 8:15 a.m.
A network of feline rescue organizations came together to save 20 cats from possible death or injury after reports that a man was strangling cats in his home in the B.C. Interior.
The Victoria Humane Society, in conjunction with the Vancouver Orphan Kitten Rescue Association (VOKRA), Cat Therapy and Rescue Society and the Nicola Valley Animal Rescue worked together to get 15 kittens and five adult cats from a dangerous situation in the Interior to Chilliwack, from Chilliwack to Vancouver and finally, to Victoria.
According to Penny Stone with the Victoria Humane Society, the man alleged to have harmed the cats was able to strangle two kittens and one cat before police could intervene. He was subsequently taken to jail and the incident is reportedly under investigation by the RCMP and the BCSPCA.
READ ALSO: Dumpster to diva: Kitten recovering after being tossed in trash at Victoria mall
On Monday, Stone was asked to take the cats before the man was released, so they wouldn’t be in his residence when he returned. That plea for help came from Angie Koczkur, who runs the Nicola Valley Forgotten Felines Society.
“It’s kitten season right now and I use my house as a sanctuary,” Koczkur told Black Press Media. “I can only have so many.”
Quickly, a network of cat-loving individuals and organizations sprung to action.
The cats were taken to Chilliwack where Melina Csontos, who runs a satellite rescue, transported them to Vancouver. Csontos says incidents like these are far too common, especially in rural B.C. communities.
“It’s very important to shed light on the fact that this is not a one-time occurrence. Something needs to change…people need to understand the importance of spay and neuter because that’s what it comes down to,” Csontos said. “People aren’t spaying and neutering [so] there’s too many animals, people don’t want them and their poisoning them, drowning them or strangling them.”
But these cats were some of the lucky ones. Once they made it to Vancouver, VOKRA fed them and treated them for fleas before driving them to Victoria, the only rescue able to to take all the animals at once.
“There were many people … and cat rescues involved to help this particular lot of kittens,” said Maria Soroski, VOKRA co-founder. “All of us rescues wanted to keep them together and because the police were involved with this gentleman and it will probably be a cruelty case.
“We are really fortunate in B.C. that we connect to each other through what we call, a cat rescue network within B.C. …When there’s situations where there’s so many cats in outlying areas of the Lower Mainland [and] some of these places don’t even have a shelter. They have just little cat rescues in their little towns and they’re overwhelmed. We all know each other and we all help out as much as we can.”
READ ALSO: Alberta woman charged after she allegedly tried to mail puppy and kitten
When they got to Victoria, Stone opened her home to the 15 kittens and five cats. Staff and volunteers are working shifts to help her care for the animals.
She says while the cats were scared, they don’t look neglected or harmed. She believes the incident was a result of mental illness.
According to Stone, the kittens will be up for adoption in about a week and the five moms will be put up for adoption in the weeks following once their milk dries up. A sixth male cat was rescued as well but Stone says it will be slightly longer before they decided whether or not to put him up for adoption.
“He’s very shy but very loving,” says Stone, adding that she thought he must have been beaten up by other cats multiple times. “He looks like he’s had a pretty rough life.”
Back in the Nicola Valley, Koczkur says the rescue work is rewarding but ceaseless.
“I’ve lived in this town 15 years, my phone never stops,” she said. “No body spays and neuters. These things are a living being and they don’t have a voice, that’s where I come in, that’s my passion.”
kendra.crighton@blackpress.ca
RCMP respond to ATV theft, grass fire, assault
Bear cubs likely hit by vehicle, left on road in Bella Coola
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by Ellen HopkinsEllen Hopkins
Love—good and bad—forces three teens’ worlds to tilt in a riveting standalone novel from #1 New York Times bestselling author Ellen Hopkins.
Three teens, three stories—all interconnected through their parents’ family relationships. As the adults pull away, caught up in their own dilemmas, the worlds of the teens begin to tilt.
Mikayla, almost eighteen, is over-the-top in love with Dylan, who loves her back jealously. But what happens to that love when Mikayla gets pregnant the summer before their senior year and decides to keep the baby?
Shane turns sixteen that same summer and falls hard in love with his first boyfriend, Alex, who happens to be HIV positive. Shane has lived for four years with his little sister’s impending death. Can he accept Alex’s love, knowing his life, too, will be shortened?
Harley is fourteen—a good girl searching for new experiences, especially love from an older boy. She never expects to hurdle toward self-destructive extremes in order to define who she is and who she wants to be.
Love, in all its forms, has crucial consequences in this wrenching story from Ellen Hopkins.
Reading Group Guide
Margaret K. McElderry Books
Lexile:
HL590L (what's this?)
Ellen Hopkins is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of fourteen young adult novels, as well as the adult novels Triangles, Collateral, and Love Lies Beneath. She lives with her family in Carson City, Nevada, where she has founded Ventana Sierra, a nonprofit youth housing and resource initiative. Visit her at EllenHopkins.com and on Facebook, and follow her on Twitter at @EllenHopkinsLit.
Completely off its axis the night
I hooked up with Dylan Douglas.
It was New Year’s Eve—five
months ago—so maybe part of that
earth-sway had something to do with
the downers, weed and cheap beer,
a dizzying combo on an empty stomach.
What I know for sure is, when he came
slinking up like a cougar—all tawny
and temperamental—something inside
me shifted. Something elemental.
I, probably the oldest prude in my whole
junior class, transformed into vamp.
When he smiled at me—me!—I knew
I had to make him mine. I would
have done anything. Turned out, all
I had to do was smile back. Just like
that, we belonged to each other.
A Reading Group Guide for
Three teens—Mikayla, Shane, and Harley—hang by threads to their families and familiarity. As their worlds are tilted, the three must garner strength to forge ahead and readjust amid changing realities. Mikayla is hopelessly in love with Dylan; however, her parents disapprove of their romantic involvement and restrict their time together. Desperately in love, she defies their rules, but an unexpected event drives a wedge between the two lovers, and she is forced into making a difficult decision. Shane, a gay teen who feels abandoned, searches for love and his place in a family threatened by a dreaded and inevitable loss. Harley, a naive “good girl,” heads toward self-destruction as she wrestles with two broken parents who strive to overcome their divorce and build new lives of their own. Shadowing Ellen Hopkins’s earlier plotlines, the lives of this trio intersect and tumble toward a satisfying conclusion.
Prereading Activities
1. Identify a time of intense struggle either for you or someone you know and explain how you, or that individual, worked through that struggle. Who helped resolve the conflict and how?
2. Think of an incident that occurred to someone you know, an event that shifted, or tilted, that person’s world, and their response to it. You may have been judgmental at the time. Discuss why it is easier to say what we “should have done” after the fact than to do the right thing in the moment.
1. Identify the three central characters in the story—Mikayla, Harley, and Shane. How are their lives similar? How are they different?
2. What circumstance tilts Mikayla’s world on its axis and how does it impact her relationship with Dylan? With her parents?
3. How does Mikayla’s view of Dylan change through the story and why? Is Dylan a responsible person? Why or why not? Support your answer with evidence from the text.
4. Mikayla’s mother has questions about her own childhood, and Mikayla seeks to help her. How do her mother’s responses to her own history impact Mikayla’s decisions?
5. Harley’s parents have divorced. Is one parent the “better parent”? If so, why? How is Harley’s relationship with each parent different and why?
6. Identify the positive influences in Harley’s life. Identify the negative. Is Harley able to discern the difference? If she can’t, what is holding her back from that discernment? Explain.
7. Harley’s behavior changes from that of a “responsible” teen to that of a young woman on the brink of self-destruction. Give examples of her downward spiral. Why does her behavior change? What does she want or need and why? Support your answer with examples from the text.
8. Harley says of Lucas, “He’s not even all that nice to me.” Yet, she’s willing to do most anything he asks of her sexually. Why? Why doesn’t she just stop? What drives her behavior and what understanding does she have about herself?
9. Shane is a gay teen who has come out; however, he still struggles with his identity and his sense of belonging. Describe his relationship with Alex. Why does the relationship hold such intensity? How is his relationship with Alex understood by his parents and how is it received?
10. Characterize Alex using evidence from the text. Is he a likeable character? Is he a good influence on Shane? Why or why not?
11. Describe Shane’s relationship with his parents. How does this relationship contribute to Shane’s turmoil and his depression? By story’s end, what chance do his mother and father have to reconcile their relationship with their son? Is one more likely to be successful than the other? Explain.
12. How does Shelby’s illness affect Shane’s relationship with his mom? Why does it have that effect? What kind of impact does her death have on Shane, Mikayla, and Harley?
13. Approximately every ten or twelve pages, the reader encounters a single black page with white text. Analyze several of these pages and the section of white pages preceding it. What does each black page contribute to the story? Why do you think these scenes are set in black?
14. How do the lives of the three central characters intersect at the end of the story? How is each character’s conflict resolved?
1. Research government statistics on AIDS and HIV in the following areas: 1) number of people in the US living with HIV; 2) the growth rate of the infection; 3) the death rate. How have statistics changed over the last decade? While still a deadly disease, what promising treatments have evolved?
2. LGBTQ organizations and support groups have given voice to lesbians, gays, bisexuals, transgender, and queer individuals and others who question their sexual orientation. Identify resources in your community for individuals interested in becoming part of such organizations or those who want to learn more about supporting individuals who feel alone and/or are marginalized.
3. Research Planned Parenthood. What resources does this organization provide for teens and women? What other services can you find for young people facing difficult decisions about parenthood?
4. During economic downturns, funding for social services are slashed. Hold a fundraising/awareness event for a local organization or club that supports an issue that impact teens.
Guide written by Pam B. Cole, Professor of English Education & Literacy Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA
This guide has been provided by Simon & Schuster for classroom, library, and reading group use. It may be reproduced in its entirety or excerpted for these purposes.
This guide was written to align with the Common Core State Standards (www.corestandards.org).
In this companion to Hopkins’s adult book, Triangles (2011), the author offers a gripping novel-in-verse about teens whose lives shift dramatically because of sex. High school junior Mikayla is in love, but her relationship with her boyfriend is tested when she gets pregnant. Shane, 16, is dating a boy with HIV and coping with his four-year-old sister’s incurable illness. Harley, a freshman, starts experimenting with drinking and drugs, as an older boy pressures her to have sex. Readers unfamiliar with Triangles may have trouble tracking the characters’ interlinked relationships, but Hopkins’s many fans will find plenty of authenticity, especially in Harley’s story (“I’m Running/ With a fast crowd and I’m not/ sure how I got here... I never expected to go/ this far”), and appreciate the author’s clever touches (the closing words/lines of the three narrators’ sections lead into single-page poems from the POV of other key characters). While these stories are not quite as compelling as those in Hopkins’s previous books, readers will likely move through this installment just as quickly. Ages 14–up. Agent: Laura Rennert, Andrea Brown Literary Agency. (Sept)
"This will be recognizable territory to anyone who has read Hopkins’ earlier novels. . . . As a cautionary tale, however, this offers helpful insights into the continuing presence of HIV in teen lives and the urgency of making better choices in matters involving sex."Booklist
"Brimming with shoes about to drop (some do, some don’t) and the drama her fans devour . . ."Kirkus Reviews
"By turns poised and visceral."
The Horn Book Guide
"Graphic, bitingly honest, and voluminous verse."
Gr 9 Up—A companion to Triangles (Atria, 2012), Hopkins's recent foray into adult publishing, Tilt fleshes out the stories of the children of Marissa, Andrea, and Holly. Mikayla cannot imagine loving anyone more than Dylan, yet when she becomes pregnant she begins to understand the limits of that love. Shane finally feels fully himself with Alex, but when mortality bears down on him in the form of Alex's HIV and his own terminally ill sister, it all becomes overwhelming. Harley wants nothing more than to be noticed by guys, even if it turns her into someone even she can no longer recognize. In Hopkins's usual style, the characters' lives are described in graphic, bitingly honest, and voluminous verse, all attributes her fans have come to expect and love. In that regard, they won't be disappointed. Yet this title might not work quite as seamlessly for those who chose not to follow her into the realm of midlife issues in Triangles. The mothers' stories weave in and out frequently enough to impact the narrative, yet because they are not fully developed here, they lend a feeling of loose ends hanging in the background. Ultimately, though, readers will care most about the clear, anguished voices of the teens.—Jill Heritage Maza, Montclair Kimberley Academy, Montclair, NJ
Less artistically sharp than most of her oeuvre, this newest from Hopkins will nonetheless hook fans with its addictive pain and quick-turning pages. Mikayla, almost 18, sneaks out to have lots of sex with her boyfriend. Shane, 16, falls for his first boyfriend, who's HIV-positive. Harley's a 13-year-old late bloomer (for this community) striving not to be. How many real issues can one book hold before soapiness ensues? Alcohol, drugs, rape, infidelity, emotional disconnection, terminal illness, homophobia, teen pregnancy--etc. Threads among the three protagonists (Shane and Harley are cousins; Harley's best friend is Mikayla's sister) expand into a web of multiple narrators from greater Reno, which dilutes focus. Conversely, it supplies a potent variety of first-person perspectives, from Shane's 4-year-old sister Shelby, unable to walk or speak because she has spinal muscular atrophy, to weed-seller Lucas, prowling for "virgin meat." Hopkins' fast-paced, free-verse poems, conveying bare shards of thought, work best for characters who are dissociated (Impulse, 2006; Identical, 2008); here, as in Perfect (2011), the characters are more bored, angry and struggling than dissociated, so the format's a mismatch for--and gives mixed messages about--their level of emotional presence. Brimming with shoes about to drop (some do, some don't) and the drama her fans devour, this will (and should) point them toward Triangles (2011), an adult-aimed version from the protagonists' mothers' perspective. Why not? (Verse fiction. 12-18)
Tilt 4.4 out of 5 based on 0 ratings. 106 reviews.
I suggest you shut up. Ive read every single one of ellen hopkins books, and i dont regret them one bit. Shes a talented author, who writes about serious real-world issues. Shes amazing at what she does. These books are phenominal. Ill be a fan of hers until I die. She writes these things because she can, and because these are things that appeal to mist anyone. Ajd i niticed you dont recommend it to 12-14 year olds, but say its okay for 16 and up. What about me? Im 15. If you dont like these books, you obviously dont get the message she sends out, and yiu have bad taste in genre.
HOPKINS did it again! I've read all her books and this one is just as amazing. It goes along with Triangles (even tho TILT starts where it was middle of TRIANGLES) so definatly read Triangles first.
Nicole_67 More than 1 year ago
One of the greatest author's out there. Ellen Hopkins is an outstanding writer. I've read every single one of her books. Yes, these books are intense. There's sex, drug use, cursing, the whole 9 yards. But those elements are what make them so raw, real , and captivating. If you are too immature to handle it, don't leave the book a bad review. These books leave you speechless in the best way possible.
laura24 More than 1 year ago
The was one of the better books I have read and I feel this was an honest portrayal. Shane, Mikayla and Harley come from homes that are broken. They try to find love they don't have at home. Their lives are changed throughout the book.
ive started reading ellen hopkijs novels and welll theyvare so real they dont make up some childish romance and i just love how the format is in beautiful poetry some people say it is disgusting but that means you are just too immatyre to handle real stuff.
kb1997 More than 1 year ago
I love Ellen Hopkins books so much!! I picked up the first one in the series at school in the library because it stood out to me. I started to read it and I instantly got hooked. I finished the book that night after school. I also think I read maybe 2 or 3 more in the series (hard to remember; read it a couple years ago). HANDS DOWN ELLEN HOPKINS IS ONE OF THE BEST YOUNG ADULT AUTHOR OF ALL TIME!!!
I can never put this book down sadly to say this reminds me of people i know today
I'm 16, and the looming threat of deseases and teen pregnancy are everywhere. I finished the book in less than a day, and couldn't stop reading. It makes you reconsider your own past decisions. I really hope there will be a sequel.
This book was amazing even though by the end I was crying like a little girl. It gives the reader a bitter taste of reality andrealize that every story doesn't have a happy ending. Either way its in my top ten next to the book theif!
This book was absolutely ahmazing. I couldn't put it down from the second that I started reading it. Ellen Hopkins does a wonderful job of captivating you and pulling you into the story so deeply and so quickly that you have no choice but to keep reading! As if you'd want to do anything else! I am someone who just flies through books, particularly love stories while looking for love myself, and I have to say that this is one of, if not THE best book I've come across so far. I'd recommend it to anybody and everybody, because I feel like this is a book where all people can connect to in some way. I will be waiting at the edge of my seat for a sequel, I can hardly wait! Ellen Hopkins, this is WONDERFUL, give us more!!!
Im in love with this book. Ellen is a very talented writer and i agree with many of u she writes about real world topics. I enjoy romantic novels but i loved this one! Im 12 i understood the book but i wouldnt suggest reading it untill atleast 8th grade. Make it a point to read this book. Ive also eard that the rest of ellens books are amazingly writen too.
JennieOhJennie More than 1 year ago
Ellen Hopkins never fails to make a good story by addressing controversial topics and real life situations. I think this book is so moving (like every one of her books) because it touches on things that could happen to any of us! This book is about teenagers, but I'd recommend it to anyone. I also loved how it connects to her other book Triangles but is still a wonderful book and understandable on its own. I love Ellen Hopkins's books and would tell anyone to read them!!!
Tilt is an amazing book I loved it. I loved the story plot. Just amazing
Great book, and great read highly recommended if you a fan or love her books!!!
I've loved Ellen Hopkins' books since I was in high school, so finding one I haven't read yet was a treat. This book is a wild ride, I could hardly put it down. I definitely recommend it to any Hopkins fans, or fans of realistic dramas.
Love all of her books
My least favorite of Ellen Hopkins books. The plot was predictable and hard to slog through. The characters didn't make an impression and their choices were so easy to guess that the book felt like a giant waste of time to me.
Wonderful book. I was 13 when i read it and im 15 now. Ive been through a ton of things i shouldnt of had to go through and was getting into things to mature for my age. I can relate to this story a lot. The sex and bad relationshps are relatable to me and a lot of others out there. I reccomend reading if youre young so this can open your eyes and let you see how to handle bad situations. Most teens may not me mature enough for this book though. It is very graphic and has language. But as a 13,14,and 15 year old girl, it was very eye opening and made sense.
mamelotti96 More than 1 year ago
I have been hearing about and seeing Tilt and Ellen Hopkins for the longest time, and I finally came across her books when I was at the library recently. I picked up Tilt and Tricks to start off with. Have any of you read Ellen Hopkins? Which books of hers do you recommend? I have always been intrigued to read her books, because she writes in verse/prose. However, I will admit that it did take me a bit to get used to her writing style, but once I did I flew through the story. Keeping all the characters straight was also a bit tricky for me. You have the three main narrators: Mikayla, Shane, and Harley. They were easy to keep track of, but then all the minor characters were thrown in, such as all the parents, siblings, family members, and friends. Everyone was connected to each other, so then you had to remember if they were distant cousins or if their parents were close friends. Mikayla's story centered around her belief that she had found the love that everyone searches for in their life. She thought her life was perfect: great grades, awesome boyfriend, cushioned lifestyle. That belief all changes when she finds herself to be pregnant, and Dylan wants nothing to do with being a family of three. We stand on the sidelines as we watch the internal war of keeping her child or aborting the baby in order to keep Dylan in her life. As Mikayla moves further into her pregnancy the decision becomes harder and harder. Her story shows how pregnancy can happen to anyone, whether you are in perfect shape, have great grades, and a nice inheritance or poor as heck and average in every other department. Shane falls in love with Alex, who informs him that he is HIV positive. Instead of leaving him, he embarks on a relationship with Alex, who becomes someone he could never imagine being without. Shane's home life isn't in the best shape. He has a four year old sister who has Type I spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), which means she can't eat, move, or talk. Her death is always on the horizon. His mom devotes all of her time to taking care of Shelby. Shane's father is absent most of the time, but when he isn't he's passed out drunk or making homophobic remarks. Shane falls into depression, which leads to alcohol abuse and self-medicating in order to dull the pain of not being fully intimate with the boy he loves and not having the proper attention he wants from both of his parents. His story focuses on how dealing with issues your own way can lead to a frightening outcome. Harley's story focuses on the constant pressure that girls feel to please boys. The pressure to look hot and sexy, so boys will pay attention to them and "love" them. She falls in with a boy named Lucas, who has a goal to take her virginity. He doesn't care about her like she thinks he does, but she still does everything he tells her to do. She slowly realizes this isn't want true love is, but finds that she is in too deep when she finds how easily Lucas can persuade her by whispering sweet nothings in her ear. Her story reiterates the message that you do not need to change anything about yourself (clothes, body size, personality traits) for anyone, especially for those who claim to love you. Tilt was a raw read. There were times I was shaking with anger and other times where I wanted to break down with the characters. Hopkins does not sugar coat anything, but instead brings awareness to reality.
Tiltiour rank order (ranks at next res): &star<_>~ Too young to have kits. <br> &star&star<_>~ Too young to have kits. <br> &star&star&star<_>~ Too young to have kits. <br> &starf<_>~ May have a mate. <br> &starf&starf<_>~ May have kits. <br> &starf&starf&starf<_>~ May have kits and adopt kits. <br> &hearts<_>~ Highly privledged. <br> &hearts&hearts<_>~ Medcats cannot have a mate/highly privledged. <br> &hearts&hearts&hearts&starf<_>~ Leader. <br> &star&hearts<_>~ Too old to have kits.
All though Ellen's book ]s are considered "controversial", they have an extremely important message. If you are immature and can't look past the older themes, you really need to put this book down. Why read a book with such a powerful message if you're going to look past the message? I don't think that people should say people ages 12-14 shouldn't read it, every kid is different. I'm fourteen and I have enjoyed every book from her that I read. And one thing is for SURE, you will never catch me going near meth.
This book was just amazing
book by ellen hopkins
book by kimberly marcus
perfect by ellen hopkins paperback
harpercollins publishers novel book
City of Bones: TV Tie-in
Don’t miss Shadowhunters: The Mortal Instruments, soon to be an Freeform original series. Discover the ...
Don’t miss Shadowhunters: The Mortal Instruments, soon to be an Freeform original series. Discover the world it was based on in the first installment of the internationally bestselling Mortal Instruments series and “prepare to be hooked” (Entertainment Weekly).Enter the world ...
The Demon's Covenant (Demon's Lexicon Series #2)
Mae Crawford has always thought of herself as in control, but in the last few ...
Mae Crawford has always thought of herself as in control, but in the last few weeks her life has changed. Her younger brother Jamie suddenly has magical powers, and she’s even more unsettled when she realizes that Gerald, the new ...
The Demon's Surrender (Demon's Lexicon Series #3)
Loyalty leads to catastrophe in the thrilling and suspenseful conclusion to the Demon’s Lexicon trilogy.The ...
Loyalty leads to catastrophe in the thrilling and suspenseful conclusion to the Demon’s Lexicon trilogy.The Goblin Market has always been the center of Sin’s world. She’s a dancer and a performer, secure in her place. But now the Market is ...
In the dim light of the darkroom, I'm alone, but not for long.As white turns ...
In the dim light of the darkroom, I'm alone, but not for long.As white turns to gray, Kate is with me.The background of the dance studio blurred, so the focus is all on herlegs extended in a perfect soaring split.The ...
Fallout (Crank Series #3)
This gripping conclusion to the New York Times bestselling Crank trilogy features a refreshed look ...
This gripping conclusion to the New York Times bestselling Crank trilogy features a refreshed look and a trade paperback trim size.Hunter, Autumn, and Summer—three of Kristina Snow’s five children—live in different homes, with different guardians and different last names. They ...
A powerful novel in verse told from the points of view of a genderqueer teenager, ...
A powerful novel in verse told from the points of view of a genderqueer teenager, the teen's girlfriend, and a trans woman“An important story, written with compassion and startling insight.” Ellen Hopkins, The New York Times–bestselling author of the Crank ...
Glass (Crank Series #2)
Kristina’s descent continues in the New York Times bestselling sequel to Crank, now with a ...
Kristina’s descent continues in the New York Times bestselling sequel to Crank, now with a refreshed look and a trade paperback trim size.One little bit, my heart revs high, then settles into quick- step mode. How I’ve missed that race ...
Of Dreams and Rust
“Desperate, dark, and violent, this amazingly complex and beautifully written novel…offers excitement on every page” ...
“Desperate, dark, and violent, this amazingly complex and beautifully written novel…offers excitement on every page” (VOYA). War erupts in this bittersweet sequel to Of Metal and Wishes, inspired by The Phantom of the Opera.In the year since the collapse of ...
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Scottish Executive annual listing for 2017
Annual Listing of Publications
Showing: 661 to 680 of 696
Sexual Orientation in Scotland 2017 - A Summary of the Evidence Base [Statistics]
This report draws together statistics and research on sexual orientation from a range of sources and presents these in a single bulletin, providing user-friendly infographics and commentary. It examines the differences between heterosexual adults in Scotland and those who self-identify their sexual orientation as lesbian, gay, bisexual or other in major household surveys.
Asset Transfer under the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015: Guidance for Community Transfer Bodies [People and Society]
A step-by-step guide for community bodies setting out who can make an asset transfer request; how to get information about suitable properties; how to make a request and how the relevant authority will deal with it. It also covers review and appeal procedures.
Asset Transfer under the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015: Guidance for Relevant Authorities [People and Society]
A step-by-step guide for relevant authorities on the requirements for dealing with asset transfer requests, including who can make a request; registers of land and provision of information; procedures for processing requests and matters to be considered in making a decision. It also covers review and appeal procedures.
Consultation on Supporting Children and Young People with Healthcare Needs in Schools Consultation Response document [Education and Training]
This is the consultation response document for the consultation on draft guidance on the provision of healthcare in schools
The Best Start: A Five-Year Forward Plan for Maternity and Neonatal Care in Scotland [Health and Community Care]
The Review of Maternity and Neonatal Services in Scotland was announced on 25 February 2015. Its aim was to ensure that every mother and baby continues to get the best possible care from Scotland’s health service, giving all children the best start in life. The Review examined choice, quality and safety of maternity and neonatal services, in consultation with the workforce, NHS Boards and service users.
The Best Start: A Five-Year Forward Plan for Maternity and Neonatal Care in Scotland - Executive Summary Report [Health and Community Care]
Supporting Children and Young People with Healthcare Needs in Schools: Draft Guidance for NHS Boards, Education Authorities and Schools [Education and Training]
Draft Guidance for consultation for NHS Boards, Education Authorities and Schools on healthcare in schools
Equality Impact Assessment (EQIA) - Results - Universal Credit Flexibilities [Government]
Equality Impact Assessment (EQIA) - Results for the Universal Credit(UC) Flexibilities
Consultation on Landing Controls for the Scottish Crab and Lobster Fisheries - Outcome Report [Marine and Fisheries]
Outcome report to Marine Scotland's consultation on new management measures for Scotland's brown crab, velvet crab and lobster fisheries.
Draft Climate Change Plan - the draft Third Report on Policies and Proposals 2017-2032 [Environment]
This document is a draft of the Climate Change Plan, the third report on proposals and policies (RPP3) for meeting Scotland’s annual greenhouse gas emissions targets that the Scottish Ministers must lay before the Scottish Parliament in accordance with the requirements in section 35 of the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009.
Evidence Review of the potential Wider Impacts of Climate Change Mitigation Options: Agriculture, Forestry, Land Use and Waste sectors [Environment]
This review summarises the evidence of potential wider impacts arising from Climate Change mitigation measures in the Agriculture, Forestry, Land Use and Waste sectors.
Evidence Review of the Potential Wider Impacts of Climate Change Mitigation Options: Built Environment Sector [Environment]
This review summarises the evidence of potential wider impacts arising from Climate Change mitigation measures in the Built Environment sector.
Evidence Review of the Potential Wider Impacts of Climate Change Mitigation Options: Transport sector [Environment]
This review summarises the evidence of potential wider impacts arising from climate change mitigation measures in the Transport sector.
Low-cost Initiative for First Time Buyers (LIFT)-Shared Equity Schemes [Housing]
Equality Impact Assessment (EQIA) for Low-cost Initiative for First Time Buyers (LIFT)-Shared Equity Schemes
Supplementary Report by the Advisory Group on Stop and Search [Law, Order and Public Safety]
A Supplementary Report by the Advisory Group on Stop and Search to the Cabinet Secretary for Justice. This Report follows the Group's initial Report of August 2015.
Tackling the School Run - Research Findings [Research]
A research study to provide the latest evidence on school transport choices.
Tackling the School Run Research Study [Research]
FEES FOR MONITORING SURFACE COAL MINES [Planning]
The Scottish Government is consulting on whether planning authorities should be enable to recover costs associated with monitoring surface coal mines
Criminal Proceedings in Scotland 2015-16 [Statistics]
Summary of proceedings dealt with by courts, sentencing outcomes and characteristics of convicted offenders. Additional information on non-court penalties issued by the Police and Crown Office & Procurator Fiscal Service.
Homelessness in Scotland: Update to 30 September 2016 [Statistics]
This publication provides information on homelessness applications, assessments and outcomes in the period to 30 September 2016. It also provides snapshot data on households in temporary accommodation on 30 September 2016.
Page updated: Tuesday, May 11, 2010
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Home / Game
Battle Royale Games Worth Attention In 2019
28.05.2019 Game 19
During the last 2 years, the incredibly fast rise of PUBG and Fortnite made Battle Royale genre a rapidly growing trend. Revenues of developers in this realm are growing bigger than the income of many AAA projects. In 2019, a couple of major players, Fortnite and PUBG, were added with …
GOG Galaxy 2.0 will unite the games with other digital distribution platforms
Digital shop GOG.com announced the launch of an updated client of Galaxy 2.0, the main “chip” which is the possibility of combining your game libraries and friends lists in one place. According to the developers, more games out on different platforms, and to access them you have to use multiple …
EA distributes the PC version of The Sims 4 in Origin
The campaign will last until may 28. Recently the free distribution of games from different companies become a tradition. Only recently, users could pick simulator winter sports Steep Uplay and platformer Guacamelee! in the Humble Bundle. Now, publisher Electronic Arts gives everyone The Sims 4. To pick up a game …
THQ Nordic spoke about the success of Metro Exodus and the new game for 4A Games
Ukrainian Studio received a new order for the AAA game. Well-known game publisher THQ Nordic has published the financial report for the first quarter of this year. There is also the end of the 2018 financial year. Net sales THQ Nordic for the full year amounted to 596 million dollars. …
Codemasters announced the GRID — restart the same racing series
24.05.2019 Game 9
Codemasters promises a wide range of vehicles, including cars class GT, Touring, Stock, Muscle Cars, Super-Modified. The British firm Codemasters has announced restart of a series of racing games GRID. Relatively soon, namely on 13 September 2019 new game will be released on major platforms Xbox One, PlayStation 4 and …
The trailer for the release of space adventure Outer Wilds
The PC game will be a temporary exclusive Epic Games Store. Mobius Digital and Annapurna Interactive announced a release trailer of their space adventure in the open world of Outer Wilds. Together the creators have announced the exact release date of the game. In the new project, gamers will assume …
In honor of the anniversary Overwatch will be free
All users who have logged in within the specified period will receive a free loudbox. Blizzard Entertainment is celebrating the third birthday of the multiplayer team first-person shooter Overwatch. Recall, the game was released on 24 may 2016 on platforms PC, PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, and quickly gained popularity …
Codemasters unveiled a new trailer for F1 2019
The Premier racing F1 simulator 2019 will be held on June 28. Codemasters has announced a new gaming video of his future racing F1 simulator 2019. Fresh trailer shows hot highlights of professional races in the Formula 1 championship. There you can see the true circuits in the world and …
Unfinished version of the mod Skyrim Together is available for download
Skyrim Together is a modification that offers co-op with up to 8 people in The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. Around cooperative modification Together Skyrim for The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim lately many scandals. First, the authors were accused of stealing code, and later it was reported that the developers can …
Sales of Minecraft have reached 176 million copies
In honor of the 10th anniversary released Minecraft browser Minecraft Classic, which is a very first version of the game sample in 2009. Minecraft is present on the market for 10 years — a period many may make you feel old. But recently, Microsoft announced the achievement of new milestones …
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Boy Scouts Send Out Despicable Survey Questioning Parents And Troops About Gay Scenarios
By Tiffany Willis on March 11, 2013 6:29 pm ·
In yet another really stupid move, the Boy Scouts of America has taken its anti-gay agenda to a new level. The Dallas Voice reported on Monday that the organization has now mailed a survey to members and parents hoping to get reallyyyy bad feedback so that they can blame it on the parents if the organization decides to stay anti-gay seeking their input about the group’s tough stance on gay troops and leaders – and the Dallas Voice has obtained access to the survey.
Image from http://www.flickr.com/photos/[email protected]/8548927933/sizes/l/in/photostream/
The survey read:
“The Boy Scouts of America is in the process of a careful and deliberate review of our membership policy, as it relates to the national membership restriction regarding sexual orientation,” the BSA wrote in an email announcing the survey. “We are dedicated to the integrity of this process. In an effort to listen to our members’ perspectives and concerns, we ask you to answer some questions about this topic and about your overall Scouting experiences.” (Dallas Voice)
The questions, as provided by Towleroad:
Bob is 15 years old, and the only openly gay Scout in a Boy Scout troop. Is it acceptable or unacceptable for the troop leader to allow Bob to tent with a heterosexual boy on an overnight camping trip?
Tom started in the program as a Tiger Cub, and finished every requirement for the Eagle Scout Award at 16 years of age. At his board of review Tom reveals that he is gay. Is it acceptable or unacceptable for the review board to deny his Eagle Scout award based on that admission?
Johnny, a first grade boy, has joined Tiger Cubs with his friends. Johnny’s friends and their parents unanimously nominate Johnny’s mom, who is known by them to be lesbian, to be the den leader. Johnny’s pack is chartered to a church where the doctrine of that faith does not teach that homosexuality is wrong. Is it acceptable or unacceptable for his mother to serve as a den leader for his Cub Scout den?
A troop is chartered by an organization that does not believe homosexuality is wrong and allows gays to be ministers. The youth minister traditionally serves as the Scoutmaster for the troop. The congregation hires a youth minister who is gay. Is it acceptable or unacceptable for this youth minister to serve as the Scoutmaster?
David, a Boy Scout, believes that homosexuality is wrong. His troop is chartered to a church where the doctrine of that faith also teaches that homosexuality is wrong. Steve, an openly gay youth, applies to be a member in the troop and is denied membership. Is it acceptable or unacceptable for this troop to deny Steve membership in their troop?
A gay male troop leader, along with another adult leader, is taking a group of boys on a camping trip following the youth protection guidelines of two-deep leadership. Is it acceptable or unacceptable for the gay adult leader to take adolescent boys on an overnight camping trip?
Other questions include this one, which is asked both before and after the questions asked above:
The current Boy Scouts of America requirements, stated above, prohibit open homosexuals from being Scouts or adult Scout leaders. To what extent do you support or oppose this requirement?
More questions:
Different organizations that charter Boy Scout troops have different positions on the morality of homosexuality. Do you support or oppose allowing charter organizations to follow their own beliefs when selecting Boy Scout members and adult leaders, if that means there will be different standards from one organization to the next?
What is your greatest concern if the policy remains in place and openly gay youth and adults are prohibited from joining Scouting?
What is your greatest concern if the policy is changed to allow charter organizations to make their own decisions to admit openly gay Scouts and leaders?
Do you believe the current policy prohibiting open homosexuals from being Scouts or adult Scout leaders is a core value of Scouting found in the Scout Oath and Law?
If the Boy Scouts of America makes a decision on this policy that disagrees with your own view, will you continue to participate in the Boy Scouts, or will you leave the organization?
How likely is it that you would recommend volunteering in the Scouting program to other friends or acquaintances?
One angry parent who received the survey took to his blog to deliver an outraged rant about the organization’s harsh discrimination policies and his frustration with only being able to choose without adding comments.
So, today I received an online survey from the Boy Scouts of America. They want to know what I think, as the parent of a scout, of changing their policy on homosexual members of the organization.
The problem is that they didn’t let me fully answer the questions. I was merely allowed to rank things on a numerical scale from “Totally Unacceptable” to “Totally Acceptable,” with a few in-between rankings. (Unwashed Advocate)
The Boy Scouts has claimed to embrace diversity in recent years, but that open-mindedness doesn’t extend to gay troops and leaders.
Hey, Boy Scouts? Either accept gay people or don’t accept gay people. You’ve been straddling this fence for far too long and the public, your funding sources, and your own troops and leaders, are growing weary.
Under different circumstances, I’d appreciate their efforts to evolve with the rest of our society, and I’d even be inclined to praise their attempts to gauge opinions by questioning troops and parents. But I can’t do either of those things in the present circumstances because they aren’t exploring “new” options because it’s the right thing to do. They’re considering expanding their welcome to gay troops and gay parents because of money. Their sponsors have steadily begun to pull away their support because of the discrimination practiced by the organization. And no matter how solid a history an organization has, when their good efforts only come after the purse is taken away, they lose whatever respect I may have had for them, and I don’t think my opinion is unique.
From the Unwashed Advocate blogger:
The fact that they even need to ask these questions shows that the organization is still a deplorable not-for-profit (or not-blatantly-for-profit) group of deluded and unethical scum who have no loyalty to the core values of the program.
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again.The Boy Scout Program is a wonderful and enriching one that helps boys to be better men.
The Boy Scout Organization is a disgusting business that disguises itself as a not-for-profit and angelic presence in our society while supporting discriminatory policies.
Oh, and while we’re at it, they should also drop their ban on atheists and agnostics.
“On My Honor….”
If the Boy Scouts have honor, they’ll make a tough choice.
1) Continue to be anti-gay and willingly accept the backlash that’s going to come with that decision -or-
2) Fully embrace change and welcome good kids who happen to be gay and amazing troop leaders who happen to be gay because it’s the right thing to do
This middle-ground business of “we don’t wanna change but we will if not changing means losing money” doesn’t cut it. They need to decide who they are before they make decisions about the future of the Boy Scouts anti-gay policy in May.
You can view more of the survey on the Dallas Voice website.
I am an unapologetic member of the Christian Left, and have spent a lot of time working with “the least of these” and disadvantaged and oppressed populations. I’m passionate about their struggles. To stay on top of topics I discuss, subscribe to my public updates on Facebook, follow me on Twitter, or connect with me via LinkedIn. I also have a grossly neglected blog. Find me somewhere and let’s discuss stuff.
Author: Tiffany WillisAn unapologetic member of the Christian Left, I have spent most of my career actively working with “the least of these” and disadvantaged and oppressed populations. I’m passionate about their struggles. To stay on top of topics I discuss, subscribe to my public updates on Facebook, follow me on Twitter, or connect with me via LinkedIn. I also have an awesome website and a literary quotes blog that is a labor of love. Find me somewhere and let’s discuss stuff.
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« 'The Meg,' 'BlacKkKlansman,' 'Slender Man' top this week's new releases | Main | Did Omarosa secretly record multiple conversation with President Trump? »
Ariana Grande reveals her 'Late Late Show' Carpool Karaoke episode will air next week
Photo: Terence Patrick/CBS ©2018 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved(LOS ANGELES) -- We won’t have to wait too long to see Ariana Grande’s Carpool Karaoke with James Corden.
The singer announced on social media that her episode will be airing on CBS' The Late Late Show Wednesday, August 15.
So far, all we know about their sing-along session is that James had been practicing the lyrics to “No Tears Left to Cry” and “God Is a Woman,” and that Ariana injured her hand at some point during their journey.
Despite her injury, Ariana says she had the "best day ever" shooting the episode. She also added that she "loves" her bandage.
Ariana’s album, Sweetener, comes out August 17.
Thursday, August 9, 2018 at 7:00PM by Stephen Iervolino Permalink
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« Watch Bring Me the Horizon's Oli Sykes sing with You Me at Six during Australia show | Main | Drake reveals he's already begun prepping his next album »
CMT Music Awards to get the party started for CMA Fest on June 5
CMTMark your calendars and set your DVRs: this year’s CMT Music Awards will take place Wednesday, June 5, live from Nashville.
The fan-voted awards show serves as the unofficial kickoff of CMA Fest, which follows June 6 - 9.
It’s typically held downtown at Music City’s Bridgestone Arena, and beamed to the world live via CMT, of course. Little Big Town served as the hosts last year.
Stay tuned for more information about nominations and the stars who’ll be on the show in the days to come.
Thursday, April 11, 2019 at 12:51PM Music News Group Permalink
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Buprenorphine-Samidorphan Combination May Reduce Symptoms in Patients With MDD
A small study investigating an adjunctive combination of drugs affecting different opioid receptors demonstrated efficacy in reducing symptoms of depression, according to a paper published today in AJP in Advance.
The study used buprenorphine (a partial µ-opioid receptor agonist that also blocks κ-opioid agonists) and samidorphan (a µ-opioid receptor antagonist), developed by Alkermes, which sponsored the clinical trial. Study participants included 142 people with major depressive disorder (MDD) who had been treated with a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor or a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor but had an “inadequate response” to one or two courses of treatment.
The researchers used a two-stage sequential parallel design in which first-round placebo nonresponders were randomized to placebo or high- or low-dosage levels of the drug combination, wrote Maurizio Fava, M.D. (pictured above), a professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School and executive vice chair of psychiatry at Massachusetts General Hospital, and colleagues.
Significant improvements in scores on the Hamilton-Depression Rating Scale, the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Scale, and the Clinical Global Impressions severity scale were recorded among patients taking a 2mg/2mg combination of buprenorphine/samidorphan compared with placebo after four weeks. There was also evidence of improvement in the 8mg/8mg dosage group, although this evidence did not reach statistical significance. Nausea, vomiting, and dizziness were commonly occurring side effects, and there was no evidence of opioid withdrawal or consistent signal of abuse liability, the authors reported.
“These results support the premise of the sequential parallel comparison design as a strategy to enhance signal detection in relatively smaller samples, and they are consistent with the finding that signal detection is enhanced in placebo nonresponders, as the effect size of buprenorphine/samidorphan was greater in stage 2 than in stage 1,” Fava and colleagues wrote. “These results support the hypothesis of a significant role of opioid dysregulation in major depression and the therapeutic potential of opioid modulation,” they concluded.
For more in Psychiatric News about the use of buprenorphine in treating depression, see “Low-Dose Buprenorphine Found to Decrease Suicidal Ideation, but Experts Remain Cautious.”
Labels: ajp in advance, Alkermes, American Journal of Psychiatry, antidepressant augmentation, antidepressant medication, biostatistics, buprenorphine, depression, Maurizio Fava, psychiatry, samidorphan, SNRIs, SSRI
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Home » Sport » Kiwi drought won’t happen again for Australian Super sides: Hanigan
Kiwi drought won’t happen again for Australian Super sides: Hanigan
It was the most telling statistic of last season. In 40 matches across three Super Rugby seasons, no Australian team could beat a Kiwi side.
The drought ended, eventually, when the Waratahs outscored the Highlanders six-tries-to-one in Sydney in round 14.
Drought-breaker: Bernard Foley offloads during the Waratahs’ round 14 win over the Highlanders last year. Credit:AAP
But it only happened another three times across the final five rounds of the regular season and finals. The Rebels beat the Blues, the Brumbies and the Hurricanes while the Waratahs put the Highlanders to the sword a second time to make the final four. Other than that New Zealand dominated.
This year Australian sides are more settled. The smaller and smaller the Force's demise grows in the rearviewmirror, the better the chances are of that painful episode translating to greater depth and more wins across the four remaining teams.
NSW are the canary down the mine shaft in this weekend's opening round, playing the Hurricanes at Brookvale Oval on Saturday. On Friday the Brumbies and Rebels kick of their seasons in an Australian derby in Canberra, while the Reds sit out a first-round bye.
Waratahs back-rower Ned Hanigan said the team had not spent any time thinking about losing streaks or last year's results, but were hoping to make a stronger stand on behalf of the Australian conference.
Ned Hanigan, right, is expected to start in the back row in the Waratahs’ season-opening clash with the Hurricanes on Saturday. Credit:Kate Geraghty
"If you worry too much about what happened in the past you're worrying about the wrong stuff. You go into what you can control and let the results take care of themselves," Hanigan said.
"I hope, as everyone does in Australian rugby, that that doesn't happen again. We're going to do everything to make sure it doesn't."
The Hurricanes are a quality first hit-out for the Waratahs, having made the play-offs for the past four seasons and securing their first title in 2016. Last year the Wellington side finished second in the competition on overall points, behind eventual title winners the Crusaders, but fourth under the conference system. They were bundled out 30-12 by the Crusaders in the first semi-final, not long before the Lions mauled the Waratahs in Johannesburg.
This year they are missing rampaging winger Julian Savea but have acquired former NZ Sevens player Salesi Rayasi. The youngster crossed for nine tries, made 22 clean breaks and beat 43 defenders in 11 games for Auckland in the Mitre 10 Cup.
Honeymoon: Beauden Barrett will miss the Hurricanes round one match as one of his mandatory stand down weeks. Credit:AP
Together with established winger Ben Lam, who broke the all-time Super Rugby single season try-scoring record by crossing for 16 tries last year, Rayasi is expected to step up as one of the Canes' leading game-breakers.
Much has been made of Beauden Barrett's absence under the All Blacks' mandatory two-game rest quota, but his younger brother, Jordie, will be there, as well as veteran halfback TJ Perenara. In the forwards, hooker Dane Coles and loose forward Ardie Savea will provide a stern test for the Waratahs' injury-plagued forward pack.
"They're quite quick off set-piece, they get up in your face. They're a fit side as well and have a few skilful guys there in the backs," Hanigan said.
NSW will welcome back Test front-rowers Sekope Kepu and Tolu Latu, second-rower Rob Simmons, captain and No.7 Michael Hooper as well as Hanigan and back-rower Jack Dempsey. But with Test prop Tom Robertson still sidelined and youngster Shambeckler Vui in a moon boot after last week’s trial loss to the Brumbies, the front-row stocks are looking thin. Forwards coach Simon Cron called up Sydney University tighthead prop Chris Talakai over the weekend.
In the second row Tom Staniforth is injured and big South African import Le Roux Roets is concussion return to play protocols and could be in doubt. Jed Holloway and Simmons look set to partner up there, with Ryan McAuley as back-up, while Hanigan could find himself starting at No.6, with Dempsey at No.8.
"It's hard to say and all a bit interesting," Hanigan said of the back-row equation. "Demo is good around the field and a genuine option in that lineout, so we'll see what happens later in the week."
Still shaded by most teams on size, Hanigan said they would continue to carve out a reputation for mobility up front.
"Definitely you want to be big and fast but the style we want to play and the playmakers we have, we want to give them as much front-foot ball and be able to work inside and outside them," he said.
"Mobility and speed around the field is definitely still at the forefront of our minds."
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California earthquake: Mystic who predicted tremor says MORE DEVASTATION to come
A powerful earthquake registering at 6.4 on the Richter scale rocked Southern California on July 5, and one Israeli Rabbi believes he predicted in. In December last year, Rabbi Mordechai Genut spoke to Breaking Israel News about his book Davar B’ito, which is a guide to the Jewish calendar. Rabbi Genut said that following a solar eclipse across the Americas, there will be earthquakes across the globe.
He said: “A lunar eclipse in the month of Shevat is a sign of the rise of the aspect of din (judgment) in the world.
“This eclipse will rule over the Americas but for Israel, it will bring chesed (loving-kindness).”
“There will be a marked increase in earthquakes and volcanoes, even more than we have seen in the past year.”
Sure enough, an eclipse darkened parts of Central and South America on June 2 and was followed by the California earthquake just a few days later.
Following the eerily accurate predictions, more scholars have been analysing Rabbi Genut’s book, and believe worldwide devastation will ensue in the month of Tammuz – which begins in June and ends in July.
The book goes on to say following the eclipse: “This will be accompanied by the death of livestock like was seen as a plague in Egypt, fevers and disease, and dry hot winds.
“But the most devastating result will be a multitude of wars. If a war breaks out in the month of Tammuz, it will be between two kings. In the end, one king will defeat the other and he will be secure on his throne.”
Rabbi Yosef Berger, the rabbi of King David’s Tomb on Mount Zion, believes all of these premonitions will come true.
He said: “Israel has nothing to fear from all this. We were given the Torah and it is upon us to fulfil the commandments. If we do as we should, then Jews in Israel have nothing to fear.
“And everything can be fixed through Tshuvah (repentance).”
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Nadia Admin To Provide Boundary Walls For Schools Near HN 34
Krishnanagar, July 27: Prompted by recent report released by National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) on road accidents which indicates that stretches of busy roads near schools and colleges are most vulnerable to accidents, the Nadia district administration in a bid to ensure safety for the students, has taken up a project to provide boundary walls around the schools located adjacent to NH-34 which have open campuses.
While the NCRB report worked as an eye opener, death of about 12 students on busy roads in the past one year across the district have literally compelled the Nadia administration to take up the project.
The district officials think that the students studying in these schools are at high risk as they often come out carelessly on the road without any restriction.
To ensure further safety measures, the district administration would also provide security fencing around the ponds and wells inside the school campus and at the same time would take up awareness programme on road safety for the students.
District magistrate Vijay Bharati, who joined Nadia last month, is the brain behind this project, told this on Sunday.
Bhrarati said: “The NCRB report of 2014 has definitely has inspired us. But, it is not just this report, rather the vulnerable locations of the schools on NH34 which I witnessed while travelling from Krishnanagar to Plassey has actually inspired me to take up the project. I was shocked to see how students are roaming on busy crowded stretches of NH34 in Bethuadahari town. They could become victim of reckless driving or drunken driving at any time. So it is our duty to ensure safety and protection to the students”.
“The situation is quite similar in Krishnanagar-Karimpur state highway, where also many schools are located without any boundary wall”, he added.
“The numbers of accidents in Nadia are very concerning. The As per NCRB report, in 2014 around 10% of the fatal accidents occurred on roads near to schools. Many students also died in these accidents. The issue is so serious that Prime Minister Narendra Modi-ji, also spoken on it in his ‘Mann ki Baat’ programme on Sunday”, said the DM.
On Sunday Prime minister said in ‘Mann Ki Baat”: “One is shocked to see the statistics of road accident in country, every 4 minutes a person dies in road accident.”
Nadia police in December last year started a pilot programme titled ‘Sobujer Suraksha” to ensure road safety for the students in front of the schools in Tehatta, involving the guardians to manage traffic by them during school hours. However, the project was not implemented in other schools.
Many teachers think that the new initiative of the administration will come as a big relief to the parents.
“Guardians often complain us about our failure to restrict the students inside class rooms. But monitoring the activities of students never possible in absence of a boundary wall”, a head master of a Bethuadahari based school said.
Instructed by the district magistrate, the officials have been preparing a comprehensive report identifying the school having no boundary walls.
To begin with the project will be implemented in 50-km stretch of NH-34 from Krishnanagar to Plassey.
“The identification of the vulnerable schools on NH-34 has been started. I have primary information that there are around 40 schools located on the stretch, of which some located in busy crowded stretches. The administration will also talk to the school managements. If everything goes as per plan, the construction work will be commenced from next month”, the DM said.
Sources claimed that district administration is trying to involve the NH authorities as a social initiative.
“We have requested the NH authorities and hopeful that they would join the initiative for sake of the student. We will use available funds of the district administration. Our aim is to use low cost technology and materials like fly ash bricks”, the DM said.
Sources said, during an administrative meeting the DM expressed concern over the number of road accidents in the district. “He also pointed out the findings of the NCRB report”, an official said.
As per the NCRB report 16 persons died at every hour in road accidents across the country in last year. The report said a total of 1, 41,526 persons died in accidents in 2014, which is 2.9% higher than 2013. 27.5% of these victims died on accidents on NH, followed by 25.2% on state highways.
Bengal ranked fifth with 11.4% in the category of most fatal accidents occurred on expressways.
Of the most fatal accidents around 10% occurred at places near schools or colleges, report said.
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The Latinx experience is expressed through album cover art in new exhibition
For the artists, record albums served as an important creative outlet for commentary on urgent cultural, political, and economic issues affecting Latin American and Caribbean immigrant communities in the United States.
EUGENE, ORE.- Visual Clave: The Latino/a Experience through Album Cover Art: 1940-90 opened on February 2, 2019, at the University of Oregons Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art. On view through April 21, 2019, the exhibition explores the evolution of Latin album cover art with a focus on the United States market.
The exhibition pays critical attention to issues of identity, race, gender, and politics through depictions of Latinx and Chicanx culture, historical context, and the creative range of unsung graphic artists who helped present Latin music to the world, says Cheryl Hartup, JSMA Associate Curator of Academic Programs and Latin American Art.
The show weaves a compelling narrative through the display of album jackets for 78 RPM records from the 1930s and 40s to LP covers from the 1960s through the 90s. Throughout the exhibition, individual album covers are juxtaposed with their original art, often made by New York-born and -based designers from the golden age of salsa (late 1960s-70s) like Israel Izzy Sanabria. For the artists, record albums served as an important creative outlet for commentary on urgent cultural, political, and economic issues affecting Latin American and Caribbean immigrant communities in the United States.
Clave (pronounced CLAH-vay) is the African-derived 2-3 or 3-2 beat used in genres, from the Cuban son, mambo, cha-cha-cha and rumba to the Colombian cumbia, the Dominican merengue, and the Mexican son jarocho. In the exhibition, the concept of clave suggests that the visual presentation of the music is as culturally informed as the recordings, a selection of which can be heard in the gallery.
Visual Clave is organized by Philip W. Scher, UO Professor of Anthropology and Folklore and Public Culture and Divisional Dean for Social Sciences, and Pablo E. Yglesias, a Northampton, MA-based Cuban-American researcher, writer, musician, artist, and DJ. Visual Clave takes its inspiration and intellectual structure from Yglesias book Cocinando: 50 Years of Latin Album Cover Art (Princeton Architectural Press, 2005). An expanded version of the exhibition was on view previously at the Student Union Art Gallery at the University of Massachusetts-Amherst; the Bronx Music Heritage Center, NY; and Picture Farm Gallery, Brooklyn, NY.
On Thursday, April 11, at 3:30 p.m., Scher and Yglesis will speak about how Latin album covers became coded visual sites of resistance, cultural pride and social commentary. This public program, which will be held in the JSMAs Ford Lecture Hall, is co-presented with the CLLAS Spring 2019 Research Presentation Series. Following the lecture there will be live music inspired by the exhibition.
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VOILA LES AUSTRALIENS DE L'OUEST
This is how to prepare for an exhibition:
1. Get briefed by the art teacher - and have a few drinks in his studio while you're about it.
2. Then get out and do the hard yakka.
3. Very soon, the galleries will be falling over themselves to get at your paintings.
Winifred, Colin, Geoff, Georgie, John and Sue preparing for their exhibition at the Art Gallery of WA.
SPYING ON PAINTERS FROM A DRONE
The Bells and the Williams are from Worcester in the UK. They stayed at La Petite Galerie for two weeks just as summer was turning into autumn, but the weather was just about perfect.
Here you can see them:
* working away at their paintings
* the results, and
* a shot taken from a spy camera in the air (sent, we think, by the Tate Modern).
IF IT'S SEPTEMBER, IT MUST BE THE PYRENEES
Exactly a year ago we were walking in the Pyrenees with the Stephens in torrential rain and perpetual cloud. All we saw was our boots.
This year it was just the opposite as you can see from these pics of some wild mountain sheilas that were taken in the Gorges de Kakouette and Gorges d'Holzart.
"WATCH THE BIRDIE" – SNAP – "OK, YOUR PART’S OVER"
For several years now, I have been using photographs as an adjunct to painting portraits.
It solves all kinds of practical problems.
For example: time.
A quick snap and the model’s involvement is over. And who these days has the time to sit in front of the artist for hours — or even days — of dreary posing?
BUT HANG ON, IS THE CAMERA A LEGITIMATE TOOL FOR ARTISTS?
Well, there’s always been this nagging doubt teasing away in the back of my mind. And then one day a visitor to my gallery bluntly posed the question critique: “Isn’t using photos a bit sneaky. You know, a kind of cheating?”
So I did some research.
A quick troll through the web revealed some interesting insights.
Throughout time, artists have used mechanical devices.
For example hand stencils were used on aboriginal rock art and palm and fingerprints on Paleolithic cave paintings.
EXAMPLES FROM WESTERN ART
The Egyptians, Greeks, Romans and many other early civilizations all used geometric instruments to develop their theories, architecture and art, and by the time of the late Gothic period, mechanical devices were being used almost universally.
The physicists Falco and artist Hockney recently published their theory that admirably demonstrates that advances in realism and accuracy during the Renaissance were achieved with curved mirrors, and devices like the camera obscura and the camera lucida. Their studies focused on artists like Vermeer, Jan Van Eyck, Caravaggio, and others. (I should hasten to add, however, that all this is not to say that countless great artists achieved amazing realism without resorting to mechanical and optical aids.)
MORE CONTEMPORARY EXAMPLES
Jump to the twentieth century and countless artists were in on the act — widespread use of contemporary technology like slide projectors and computers is now commonplace amongst serious artists.
Pop sculptor Donald Judd had all of his work commercially produced from his sketches by artisans who were experts in various phases of metalwork. Needless to say this was not new, and sculptors have always used foundries (invariably factories producing commercial metal objects in large quantities) where experts carry out the preparation of moulds, etc, and the highly technical aspects of the actual casting, and the artist, once he has created his design, merely (if that’s the word) oversees the project.
Andy Warhol emphasized the point of artists being involved in certain of their work at arms length by calling his New Your studio The Factory and his huge silkscreen works now attract huge prices for works that are, essentially, silkscreen prints produced by an army of helpers in the same manner as much commercial colour printing was done at that time.
Jeff Koons’s work is a variation on this theme using a huge staff that he supervises. But the concept, known as art fabrication, is taken several steps further. Koons has access to specialized machinery, technicians and the experienced staff necessary to execute particularly complex projects. Under his direction, all kinds of designs are created and then produced in a wide variety of factories.
Hockney himself has used photography and computers widely in his work and even when Paris was the centre of the art world, Picasso and other cubists stuck photographs onto their collages.
So, what’s the conclusion? Well, if anyone’s still reading this stuff, you may be wondering where it’s going so I’ll get to the point.
All I want to say, can be said in one sentence: if artists like Vermeer, Hockney, Warhol et al, can use mechanical aids, so can I. I feel it’s quite legitimate for me to use a photograph from which to paint a portrait. And that’s it really – end of diatribe.
Well almost, because, finally, here’s an example of what I’m getting at. Adrian is an old friend who turned seventy recently. I wanted to paint his portrait as a surprise, so I found and downloaded a photograph from a directory of London QC’s.
This is the result.
If you are interested in having your portrait painted from a photograph, please send me an email.
"WATCH THE BIRDIE" – SNAP – "OK, YOUR PART’S OVER"...
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