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What are panel meters used for?
Panel meters are instruments that read input signals, such as voltage or current and display these signals in either a digital or analogue format so that they can be interpreted by a user.
What types of panel meter are available?
Theyre usually found mounted within industrial panel enclosures and require a hole to be cut to house them. So they are usually manufactured to DIN sizes.
Panel meters are available with lots of different additional functionalities like data transfer options, alarms, wireless communications capabilities. Ultimately is it important to determine what output is needed from the panel meter to determine what type is required.
Here is an overview to the most popular panel meter and complementary components:
Digital panel meters
Panels with a digital display are available in different types that work with different input signals such as AC voltage or DC power. These can then have further specifications including the number of digits it can display, the size of the panel face, the display colour and connection points. Our range includes:
- Digital panel voltmeters
- Digital panel ammeters
- Digital Panel multi-function meters
Analogue panel meters
Analogue displays look similar in design to old style car speedometers with a needle and gauge. Types are available to work with nearly any input signal including voltage or current, in either AC or DC. Our range includes:
- Analogue panel ammeters
- Analogue panel voltmeters
- Current transformers - used to measure alternating current (AC)


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Editor's Picks
The road to same-sex marriage in the Philippines
Hong Kong-based Jefferson Mendoza looks at equal marriage in the Philippines, which – he notes – is affected not only by the unequal treatment given by the Philippine government to members of the LGBTQI community; but also because of the LGBTQI community's priorities that include more "pressing" issues like access to education and health services, employment opportunities, family affairs, religious discrimination, an unfriendly mainstream media and lack of political representation.
It's a bumpy ride inside the Jeepney marked 'Proj.8' as it swerves, stops and seek out potential passersby while the diesel-guzzling smell permeates one's nostrils. And it's in Project 8, a district of Quezon City, Philippines, where the fame Beki House stands with open arms for its weekly scheduled Sunday service.
Part-housing and part-chapel, it serves as the ceremonious venue for same-sex weddings, headed by Fr. Crescensio Gaba Agbayani, Jr. of the LGBTS Christian Church, and his partner.
While the Philippines doesn't recognize same-sex marriages, two same-sex couples – including Fr. Agbayani – applied for their marriage-licenses at the Civil Registry Office in Manila on 3 August 2015.
And it's a first in a predominantly Roman Catholic country.
Before each wedding ceremony, Father Agbayani holds a premartial counseling session with the marrying couple, asking each party about their views on marriage.
"My definition of marriage is a union of two consenting adults that promise to live and to be together for the rest of their lives in a loving relationship," says Father Agbayani inside his Beki House. "Beki" is part of the Filipino gay lingo that refers to gay.
Since 2008, Father Agbayani has performed 608 Holy Unions. And the number is increasing.
"The word marriage in Tagalog is beautiful. It's called katuwang (partner). But I like it in Tagalog. Your [partner] is not in front, not in back: he's katuwang – at the same level."
But through the eyes of the Philippine government, members of the LGBTQI (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and Intersex) community, they are seen and treated differently.
According to Being LGBT in Asia: the Philippines Country Report, produced by the Third Philippine National LGBT Community Dialogue (or the "Dialogue") in 2013, family affairs, for one, need "to be reviewed, amended and repel existing laws and policies that criminalize or make diverse sexual orientation and gender identity fraudulent or legitimate." These also include having to reform the Penal Code, Family Code, the existing case laws and jurisprudence of the country.
On 19 May 2015, Filipino lawyer Jesus Nicardo Falcis III filed a 31-page petition to the Philippine Supreme Court to allow same-sex unions. Released by the Supreme Court, Falcis wants to invalidate the portions of Article 1 and 2 of the Executive Order 209 (or the Family Code) of the Philippines that define and limit marriage between a man and a woman.
Falcis argues that the Family Code violates Article 3, Section 1 where it stipulates "No person shall be deprived of life, liberty or property without due process of law, nor shall any person be denied the equal protection of the laws" and Article 15, Section 3 (1), "The right of spouses to found a family in accordance with their religious convictions and the demands of responsible parenthood."
And because of Falcis's actions, the 'Foursome'– Father Agbayani and his partner; Arlyn "Sugar" Ibanez and her partner – were inspired to file for their marriage licenses at Manila's Civil Registry office the morning of August 3.
"I LOVE MY GAY FRIENDS BUT I DON'T SUPPORT SAME-SEX MARRIAGE" – Facebook post
On 26 June 2015, the United States Supreme Court allowed same-sex marriage to be legal nationwide. But the issue of separation of Church and the State still remains controversial as seen in the case of American county clerk Kim Davis who has refused to issue marriage licenses to anyone. She was sent to jail for her actions.
"The key is to open people's minds and hearts to the possibilities outside of the usual nuclear family model. And I believe that is happening right now," says Filipino lawyer Raymond Alikpala, author of Of God and Men: A Life in the Closet, in an email interview.
"But the developments in the US were speedy in the context of the long arc of history so this could affect the movement of history as well," he says.
Alikpala was once a nominee of the Ang Ladlad PartyList – the first and only political party by and for lesbian, gay and transgender (LGBT) Filipinos, according to its website. "Ladlad" evokes the image of an unfurling cape in the wind and the word also means "to come out of the closet, to assert one's human rights as equal to that of the next Filipino."
But no seat was won at the national legislature in the Philippine 2013 general election.
Asked about why the Foursome decided to directly file for same-sex marriage licenses, "there was someone who came over and told us that we should get civil unions rather than same-sex marriages because that will pass. But the argument of Atty. Francis is that it's seen as a form of segregation. To me, that's how I view it. Why give civil unions to LGBT and not marriages? Nobody owns marriage. It's a social construction," says Fr. Agbayani.
On 30 August 2015, the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) released their "Question and Answer Catechisms on the Dignity and Vocation of Homosexual Persons" document where they urge the government not to legalize same-sex unions and for individuals to oppose any such proposals.
The Philippine bishops want to push out the special privileges for homosexuals in the majority-Catholic country and have affirmed in the document that marriage is "the institution established by God for the foundation of the family."
"The judicial fight for same-sex marriage has not really yet begun. Let us wait and see how the Supreme Court will respond to Atty. Jesus Falcis's petition," Alikpala says. "Atty. Falcis must be given credit for his boldness in bringing the fight for LGBT equality and same-sex marriage before the Philippine courts."
The Anti-Discrimination Bill filed in 2000 by the Lesbian and Gay legislative Advocacy Network, the main proponent of the anti-discrimination bill (LAGABLAB) as mentioned on the International Gay & Lesbian Human Rights Commission website, is meant to protect the rights of each and every citizen regardless of their sexual orientation and gender identity in the Philippines.
But the bill has yet to be ratified by Congress.
"Interest-wise. Each has their own interests. Also, the LGBT Philippine communities are cut in half: the 'rejectionists' and the 'reaffirmists'," says Fr. Agbayani. "The rejectionists are in the lineage of the socialist democratic front and the reaffirmists are in the lineage of the nationalist democratic front."
"We argue against the old activists. We say we don't know the ideological differences and we don't care about ideological differences. What we want is to unite. Can you not sit down?" says Fr. Agbayani.
Fr. Agbayani points out another factor: credit-centered where there are those who want to be credited for their triumphs such as in the case of the Anti-Discrimination Bill.
"There are, however, very real differences such as the conviction that same-sex marriage is not the most important issue for our community and should not be the priority at this time. It won't be easy to unify the community but I remain hopeful that we will be able to do so someway, somehow," says Alikpala.
More pressing issues for some include education, health, employment, family affairs, religion, community, media and politics as mentioned in the Dialogue where 50 LGBT organizations representatives had gathered to discuss the human rights of LGBT people and created a list of 51 specific recommendations and action points.
And within the 'L-G-B-T-Q-I' community, each letter is perceived unequally where the Gays and Lesbians have often been seen at the forefront for change while Bisexual and Trans* groups for instance are misunderstood. Also, Queer and Intersex still remain new concepts to the public.
"The government should form a coop or work with local LGBT groups with funding assistance so we may work closely with grassroots-based groups and to educate them too," says Dr. Brenda Alegre, a transpinay and lecturer of sexuality and gender at the University of Hong Kong, regarding the status of trans* people in the Philippines in an email interview.
She is also a member of STRAP – the first trans* group who work closely with some schools and universities like La Salle, University of the Philippines and Ateneo University.
"Trans* from indigenous groups and those who did not obtain any form of education may be suffering the most because of lack of access to information."
Dr. Alegre says while tolerance is accepted for trans* groups, acceptance is not.
"Same-sex unions are only for those who wish to marry someone they perceive as their same-sex. This can be troublesome definition for some Filipinos. Trans* people can be LGBS too. It can be pansexuals or asexuals too. So the law should also address: 'how about trans* people?' that includes those gender fluid and gender neutral trans* people. But one step at a time. Same-sex marriage, if approved, is one big step," says Dr. Alegre.
Night falls outside of Beki House after the scripture reading, songs were sung, personal testimonies were spoken and prayers heard – all under the guidance of Father Agbayani.
From afar, it has been your typical mass except three gay men and three transpinays sat and listened to Fr. Agbayani's sermon on "Don't Judge a Book by its Cover."
Transpinay Dudhay, 22, once made Beki House her home last year when she ran away from her own home. And Beki House has become a springboard for her to know more about her own rights.
"I learned to fight first of all. To fight for myself and for my rights as a human being… To people who look down on us because we're [cross-dressers], what we can say is: 'Don't laugh at us.' They don't know us', " Dudhay says.
With the rise of social media in the country, Fr. Agbayani is hopeful that perception of the LGBTQI community is changing because social media has allowed information to be disseminated faster.
"Acceptance is about understanding. To accept a person, you'll need to understand. It's easier to accept a person when you understand that person… The Philippines is a secular society with different beliefs, religion and one country. And we're all under one constitution," Fr. Agbayani ends.
Jefferson Mendoza is a contributing editor for HK Pinoy TV.
He is currently based in Hong Kong.
Editor's Picks
Anti-discrimination ordinance passes final reading in Zamboanga City; awaits mayor's signature
Zamboanga joins the growing number of local government units that now has an anti-discrimination ordinance.
The rainbow rises in Zamboanga City.
The 1st class highly urbanized city in the Zamboanga Peninsula of the Philippines, Zamboanga, joins the growing number of local government units (LGUs) that now has an anti-discrimination ordinance (ADO).
As helmed by Hon. Lilibeth Macrohon Nuño, the ADO passed the third and final reading at the Sangguniang Panglunsod of the City of Zamboanga on October 6.
The ADO is actually not only specific to sexual orientation and gender identity and expression. Instead, it is a more comprehensive ADO that also prohibits discrimination based on race, color, civil and social status, language, religion, national or social origin, culture and ethnicity, property, birth or age, disability and health status, creed and ideological beliefs, and physical appearance.
The ADO now goes to the desk of Mayor Maria Isabelle Climaco-Salazar for signing.
As the sixth most populous and third largest city by land area in the Philippines, Zamboanga has a population of 861,799 people (as of 2015). The ADO was pushed by local LGBTQIA organization, Mujer-LGBT Organization Inc.
Editor's Picks
Covid-19 and the freelancer's dilemma
The Philippines is home to a "vibrant gig economy", with an estimated 1.5 million freelancers in the country. But Covid-19 responses actually do not include them, so what happens to them now?
Kate is a visual artist. She resigned from her day job to pursue her passion two years ago. Painting and creating origami, her income mainly came from the sales of her artworks; supplemented by home-based art classes to elementary and high school students.
Nicole is a freelance makeup artist. Her clients varied from celebrities to socialites to brides and debutantes… and everything in between. Nicole used to earn a minimum of P3,000 per client, with the amount increasing depending on the type of service being offered.
Lumina is a drag artist, a common face in dance clubs and in events. Aside from her "talent fee", she also used to get "tips" from customers.
But when the Covid-19 related Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) took effect in Luzon starting last March 17, their capacity to earn a living was also put on hold. And people like them – a.k.a. "freelancers" – are many.
In May 2019, PayPal (the payment system company) reported that the Philippines is home to a "vibrant gig economy", with an estimated 1.5 million freelancers in the country. In fact, this is a segment that is fast becoming an influential part of the Filipino workforce and a key engine driving the growth of the country's economy.
The terms used to refer to them may vary – e.g. In October 2019, the Philippine Statistics Authority reported that of the 73,528,000 population in the Philippines, ages 15 years and over, 95.5% are employed. And 25% of them are "self-employed workers". Freelancers also fall under PSA's categorization.
And ECQ has been devastating to these Filipinos.
"The current lockdown left us, freelance workers, in a complete halt — events and shows were cancelled. It technically made us jobless since we do not have the option of working from home," Lumina said.
Like Lumina, Kate said freelancer workers are "so tied to the situation."
"Even if I want to sell my work or earn a living, I cannot do anything right now," Kate added.
What gov't support?
There are supposed to be government support for workers affected by the ECQ.
In a statement released last March 17, for instance, the Department of Labor and Employment stated that they "may be able to address the pressing needs of the rest of the affected workers in the quarantined areas."
DOLE developed the following mitigating measures: "Covid-19 Adjustment Measures Program" (CAMP), "Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers" (TUPAD), and "DOLE-AKAP for OFWs".
CAMP will serve "affected workers regardless of status (i.e. permanent, probationary, or contractual), those employed in private establishments whose operations are affected due to the Covid-19 pandemic." TUPAD "aims to contribute to poverty reduction and inclusive growth." The program is "a community based (municipality/barangay) package of assistance that provides temporary wage employment." And the DOLE-AKAP specifically caters to overseas Filipino workers who have been displaced due to the imposition of lockdown or community quarantine, or have been infected with the disease.
DOLE reiterated that the only qualified beneficiaries are the underemployed, self-employed and displaced marginalized workers. To help these people, "employment" is offered – i.e. the nature of work shall be the disinfection or sanitation of their houses and its immediate vicinity, and the duration will be limited to 10 days. The person will be receiving 100% of the prevailing highest minimum wage in the region.
Another government body eyeing to supposedly help is the Social Security System (SSS), where employees of small businesses may apply to be considered for the Small Business Wage Subsidy (SBWS) Program.
To add, the government agency is also geared up to pay some 30,000 to 60,000 workers projected to be unemployed due to possible layoffs or closures of Covid-19 affected private companies.
Some arts-focused institutions like the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) also developed their own "disaster-triggered funding mechanism" to help address the "lack of support from the government." In FDCP's case, the program aims to help displaced freelance audio-visual workers—from talents, to production staff and technical crew members.
But note how all efforts are mum on freelance workers.
Making ends meet
And so many are left to do something they never did – i.e. rely on others just to survice.
In the case of Nicole, she relies solely on what her barangay provides: relief goods and minimal ayuda.
"Sobrang hirap ng sitwasyon ngayon. Hindi ko alam kung saan ako kukuha ng panggastos. 'Yung ipon ko paubos na, tapos kailangan ko pa magbayad ng renta sa bahay at ibang bills (The situation now is very hard. I don't know where to get money to spend. My savings are almost gone, and yet I still have to pay for my rent and the bills)," she said.
Lumina, for her part, is "lucky" because she still lives with her family, and "they have been providing for my basic needs since the lockdown started."
Her luck isn't necessarily shared by many – e.g. Human Rights Watch earlier reported that "added family stresses related to the Covid-19 crisis – including job loss, isolation, excessive confinement, and anxieties over health and finances – heighten the risk of violence in the home… The United Nations secretary-general has reported a 'horrifying' global surge in domestic-based violence linked to Covid-19, and calls to helplines in some countries have reportedly doubled."
To add: "In a household of six members, I think the goods that we are receiving from the government is not enough," Lumina said, hoping that "every freelance worker also receive benefits from the government that would in a way cover the earnings that we lost."
Bleak future?
In 2017, when PayPal conducted a survey of over 500 freelancers in the Philippines, the results showed that the country had a "very optimistic freelancer market", with 86% of freelancers claiming they anticipate future growth in their businesses. In fact, at that time, 23% of the respondents said their business is growing steadily, while 46% said their business is stable.
But Covid-19 turned everything upside-down for many.
There are rays of hope.
A Toptal survey, for instance, pointed out that 90% of companies depend on freelancers to augment their professional workforce, and – get this – 76% of surveyed executives intend to increase use of independent professionals to provide expertise either to supplement full-time talent or to access skills and experiences they lack in their workforce.
This may be particularly true to those whose works do not involve face-to-face engagement (e.g. graphics design, BPOs).
And so for the likes of Kate, Nicole and Lumina — and many other freelance workers for that matter, whose works rely on being with people — the way to get through now is to just to make do with what they can grasp on… while trapped inside and hoping for a better future, where reliance (including in a non-responsive government) is not in the picture…
Editor's Picks
Keeping the faith at the time of COVID-19
Many ask where God is at the time of #Covid19, including #LGBTQIA people who – prior to this – already experienced difficulties because of their #SOGIESC, and now have a hard time with their expression of faith. But #LGBTQIA faith leaders say that this is as good a time as any to also highlight humanity and, yes, the rainbow #pride.
LGBTQIA people are "no strangers to isolation, hardships and the stress of being alone," said Bb. Kakay M. Pamaran, Director for Field Education of the Union Theological Seminary Philippines. And while stressing that she is, in no way, trying to "romanticize this, but I think of all people, we know what this level of isolation feels like because we've been there… many of us have been there."
Bb. Pamaran was referring to the isolation/stress of being alone and hardships brought about by Covid-19, with many countries – the Philippines included – forcing people to stay indoors, else risk getting infected. The World Health Organization (WHO), itself, acknowledged that "as the coronavirus pandemic rapidly sweeps across the world, it is inducing a considerable degree of fear, worry and concern in the population at large and among certain groups in particular…"
There are those whose (religious) faith is getting them through; but there are also those who, in times like this, start questioning their faith. This includes LGBTQIA people whose lives, as it is, are often marked by religious persecution. And so for those of faith and who belong to the rainbow family… how does one keep the faith at the time of Covid-19?
"When people are afraid, they turn to God," Bb. Pamaran said. "And the church, for the longest time, has been God's mouthpiece."
She, therefore, believes that "the church has a huge responsibility where this is concerned."
This April, the WHO released "Practical considerations and recommendations for religious leaders and faith-based communities in the context of COVID-19", which eyes to provide "practical guidance and recommendations to support the special role of religious leaders, faith-based organizations, and faith communities in COVID-19 education, preparedness, and response."
WHO's practical recommendations include: discouraging non-essential physical gatherings and, instead, organizing virtual gatherings through live-streaming, TV, radio, social media, et cetera; regulating the number and flow of people entering, attending or departing worship spaces to ensure safe distancing; management of pilgrim sites to respect physical distancing; and actual isolation of those who get ill/develop Covid-19 symptoms.
As stated by the WHO: Faith-based organizations (FBOs) "are a primary source of support, comfort, guidance, and direct health care and social service, for the communities they serve. Religious leaders of faith-based organizations and communities of faith can share health information to protect their own members and wider communities, which may be more likely to be accepted than from other sources. They can provide pastoral and spiritual support during public health emergencies and other health challenges and can advocate for the needs of vulnerable populations."
Bb. Pamaran agrees – to an extent.
"It is very important, it is imperative for church leaders (and) faith-based organizations (FBOs) to deal with Covid-19 in factual, scientific ways," she said. This is because "the things you say in the pulpit or all of the platforms that are available to you must always be based on scientific, medical evidence. And you have to exhaust all possible efforts to do your research because people tend to believe whoever is speaking behind the pulpit."
Bb. Pamaran added that "people turn to superstition if scientific answers are not available. So as faith-based leaders, it is our responsibility to fuse rationality and factual scientific inquiry in these desperate (concerns)."
According to Rev. Alfred Candid M. Jaropillo, Administrative Minister of the United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP)-Ekklesia in R. Mapa St., Mandurriao, Iloilo City, Covid-19 is an "eye-opener for us that human as we are, we are finite beings, and we don't have the control of life."
But Rev. Jaropillo added that this ought to make people see that "people have contributions to the suffering of life, and the suffering of Mother Earth."
As FYI: In 2015, the Pew Research Center (PRC) noted that about 5% of the 2014 Religious Landscape Study's 35,000-plus respondents identified themselves as members of the LGB population. And of that group, a big 59% said they are religiously affiliated. But only 48% of them reported belonging to a Christian faith group, compared with 71% of the general public.
Meaning: Although many members of the LGBTQIA community may feel that most major faiths are unwelcoming to them, a majority of them are still religiously affiliated (though not necessarily as Christian, but also as part of smaller, non-Christian denominations).
Bb. Pamaran noted that LGBTQIA people may not be going to churches because these are unwelcoming, or "they just don't go to church because they gave up on church altogether. It was difficult for LGBTQIA people to express their faith pre-Covid-19; and now with Covid-19, it would be harder for them, I would imagine."
Rev. Jaropillo added that it is, therefore, the church's role to "open its doors… in ministering to people who need God the most: the vulnerable, poor, women, children, the displaced…"
There are, of course, open and affirming (or ONA, the term used by the United Church of Christ/UCC) churches and/or faith-based organizations, or those that affirm the "full inclusion of LGBTQIA and non-binary persons in the church's life and ministry."
And they are just as affected by Covid-19.
According to Bishop Regen Luna of the Catholic Diocese of One Spirit Philippines, which is based in the Province of Cavite, the mandate to socially distance meant they had to (temporarily) close, so "Covid-19 had a big impact on us."
Among others, they had to forego masses, Bible studies, weddings, baptism, et cetera.
"Ayaw din namin magkahawahan (We also do not one to infect each other)," he said.
Added Rev. Joseph San Jose, Administrative Pastor of the Open Table Metropolitan Community Church: In the context that we're a small church, "we don't have as much of the resources, the facilities that other churches have."
For instance, the Roman Catholic Church and bigger Protestant churches can broadcast live their masses/worships, "we are unable to do that."
The composition of the church membership is also proving to be a challenge, geographically speaking. Rev. San Jose, for instance, is in Laguna (approximately 100.3km from Mandaluyong, where the church is located); and members are from the City of Taguig, Quezon City, et cetera. "This is an issue with the Covid-19 lockdowns (that limit mobility of people)," he said.
Bb. Pamaran said that, largely, faith expressions involve corporate worship/gathering in one space. "Without that, faith expressions… significantly change."
But Bb. Pamaran wants people to draw something from this experience.
"It is also a good demonstration to non-LGBTQIA persons that this kind of isolation… is the normal for LGBTQIA persons even without Covid-19 as far as going to church is concerned, and in belonging in church communities," she said.
For Bishop Luna, the pandemic is (similarly) showcasing the resilience of LGBTQIA churches.
"Sanay na kami sa hirap (We're used to hardships)," he said, adding that they now know how to "stretch the budget to sustain a small church." This is even if their main source of income (i.e. donations, for holding of sacraments like baptism, marriage/weddings, et cetera) is affected by the Covid-19 lockdowns.
Covid-19, on its own, isn't the only problem; just as problematic are its effects on other issues.
In the case of Bishop Luna's church-goers, for instance, "we have members who are also living with HIV." Issues re access to life-saving antiretroviral (ARV) medicines have been reported on; particularly affecting those who have no access to treatment hubs/facilities, again because of immobility.
Rev. San Jose admitted that it's a "personal struggle as a pastor" not being able to help out, particularly at a time when people are asking what churches are doing to help the needy. But "with our situation, it's almost impossible for us to mobilize in the same way that other churches (have been mobilizing)."
Covid-19 introduced a "new normal" even to FBOs – here, largely dictated by going online.
Union Theological Seminary, for one, introduced online courses. Metropolitan Community Church hosts webinars and online conversations. Catholic Diocese of One Spirit Philippines has online services – though, as Bishop Luna said, holding sacraments (e.g. weddings) are still not done this way (thus the rescheduling of pre-booked events to next year). Meanwhile, Open Table Metropolitan Community Church's Rev. San Jose records sermon/homily for Sunday online "gatherings"; which is also the time when members videoconference to discuss their faith and, yes, Covid-19.
"I think that's going to be the trend," said Bb. Pamaran. "This is going to be how we facilitate conversations moving forward."
Rev. Jaropillo – whose UCCP-Ekklesia also has worship services – said that while churches now also use technology in ministering to people, "we don't stop there. Aside from virtual worship services, we concretize the love of God through relief operations. We address two things: the liturgical/spiritual ministry through virtual worship services, and the physical need of people. Churches should have a holistic approach (to this)."
"It's best to respond with creativity," Bb. Pamaran said.
At the time of Covid-19, Rev. Jaropillo said that "it's very natural to doubt and it's human to question one's faith: 'Natutulog ba ang Diyos (Is God asleep)?' But I believe I don't need to defend God. God understands the doubts of the people nowadays. So as a church, we need to journey with these people who are in doubt, especially at times of crises like now."
Bishop Luna agrees.
"Some people ask why God would let something like this happen," he said, adding that while these questions are unnecessary, that they are asked at all is "natural"/understandable. But he said that times like this offer lessons from God, and people should listen. "We believe in a loving God… We believe that God is teaching us – e.g. how to look after the environment, health, and respect of other creatures. We've forgotten these. We also live fast lives; we don't even think it can end in a blink of an eye."
For Rev. San Jose, it may be worth echoing what Pope Francis said when asked by a child why there's human suffering. "Sometimes we just don't know. It is what it is. There is a mystery of suffering and pain. And it would be very arrogant for us to try to answer very difficult and almost no-answer questions. The progressive faith compels us not to ask where God is, but to ask where we are and what we are doing at this time to be the channel of God's love, comfort, hope for ourselves and for others."
For Bb. Pamaran: "It's a common question to ask where God is in all these. But perhaps it's the best time to ask where humanity is in all these. It is the best time to look into our humanity and our creativity, our innovative imaginations to pull through this."
To LGBTQIA people of faith, Bishop Luna calls for prayers – "unified prayers" – while spending time with loved ones, and looking after oneself (e.g. mental health).
"Ibigay natin laat ng ito sa Panginoon (Surrender everything to God)," Bishop Luna said, adding: "We believe that this, too, shall pass."
LGBTQIA people are resilient, continuing to face hardships in life. "We can survive this, too," he said, "and pass this with flying colors."
It is also the resilience of the LGBTQIA people that Rev. Jaropillo wants to highlight. That LGBTQIA people find joy/laugh even in dark times is something that can be shared to cheer up communities. "Continue to shine as a rainbow, to inspire other people."
Covid-19, said Rev. San Jose, is also a good time for the LGBTQIA people to reflect on social justice. "There is a need for us to be more active in engaging in the issues faced by the country, by our community," he said. "There is really a great need to organize and mobilize."
"No sector of people understands isolation more than the LGBTQIA community. We can imagine, we can grasp the loneliness and isolation that Covid-19 brings. And so try to remember how you pulled through all these years, and then try to help others do the same," said Bb. Pamaran.
In the end, "now more than ever, the world needs color; the world needs our color. So be that… for yourself and for others," Bb. Pamaran ended.
Editor's Picks
Being trans at the time of Covid-19 lockdown
#LGBT Filipinos still face legal impediments re their #SOGIESC, so many of the gov't responses related to #Covid19 exclude them. For #trans community members, interconnected issues include losing livelihood considering many belong to informal sectors, limited access to hormonal medications that could adversely affect mental/emotional/psychological health, and general forced invisibility that excludes them from gov't support.
At the moment, LGBTQIA people are (often) excluded in government assistance related to Covid-19, said Magdalena Robinson, CEO of the Cebu United Rainbow LGBTIQ+ Sector Inc. There are various (and many of them interrelated) reasons why this is so – e.g. because marriage equality is not recognized in the Philippines, many LGBTQIA Filipinos live alone ("For example, they just rent rooms") or perhaps couples live together yet are just considered as board mates, so they are not considered to belong to "homes"/"households". "That's a difficulty (that affects) access to the assistance of the government."
It is the intersection/inter-connection of issues that – in truth – define the experience of transgender Filipinos in particular as they try to survive the Covid-19 lockdown.
To start, there's the issue with accessing hormonal medications.
As noted by Jhen Latorre of the Pioneer FTM (Pioneer Filipino Trans men Movement), members of the transpinoy/trans men community already noted issues re accessing testosterone (hormonal medications). Not only because the stocks are limited, ordering is challenging, but also "mahirap ang shipping (we also encounter issues with shipping)." This is even more so for those in provinces.
Robinson added that many trans people access hormonal medications from the black market. For example, some local suppliers buy from Thailand. But there are now issues with stocks, affected by the lockdown that limits mobility of goods (from overseas, as well as locally).
Now, this is worth highlighting: According to Kate Montecarlo Cordova, founding chairperson of the Association of Transgender People in the Philippines, "people have a hard time understanding the health impact of hormones to trans people."
Cordova said that many people now "think that taking hormones is just a luxury; that we just want it, and it's not even needed."
She added that often neglected in this line of conversation are the biological/physical, economic/financial, and psychological/emotional impacts of not having these hormonal medications – e.g. there are trans women who work as entertainers, and not having access to the needed meds could affect their physicality, which could affect their means of living.
In the end, "these are all interrelated," Cordova said. "There are intersectionalities."
Obviously this touches on the continuing "forced invisibility" of trans people in the Philippines particularly when talking legally – e.g. the country still doesn't have gender recognition law, and basically misgenders trans people by legally pigeonholing them according to their assigned sex at birth.
According to Latorre, at least in his group, most of their members have jobs that: 1. allow them to work at home, and 2. still give them regular salaries even during the Covid-19 lockdown.
But there are also those who are affected by "no work, no pay," he said. So these people now only rely from the support of family members."
Shane R. Parreno, chairperson of the Transpinays of Antipolo Organization, said that the percentage of members of the trans community who hold regular jobs remains low.
Local figures continue to be limited on this, but at least in the US, 29% of trans people live in poverty, compared to 14% of the general population; and trans people experience unemployment at three times the rate of the general population, with 30% of trans people reporting being fired, denied a promotion, or experiencing mistreatment in the workplace due to their gender identity in the past 12 months.
For Parreno, may trans Filipinos – and LGBTQIA community members, for that matter – are informal workers, e.g. hairdressers, make-up artists/cosmetologists, and tailors/seamstresses. And with "everybody affected by the lockdown, those working in these fields/areas do not have clients, so they do not earn," she said.
Robinson stressed the same point: There are trans women who work in the beauty industry, fashion industry, et cetera who do not have income now. "So we hope they will not be left out (in the giving of needed support from the government during the pandemic)."
Latorre – who has two kids, but who also did not qualify in the government's definition of "household" to be given support – said that even before, LGBTQIA families have always been set aside.
And because "there are trans people who are the breadwinners," Parreno said, "I hope that their SOGIESC won't be reason for them not to be included in (government support)."
There's also the difficulty in getting medical care.
Recognizing that trans people may need to see medical professionals (e.g. when transitioning), Latorre also isn't aware of clinics that are now open for them to access. This issue is ongoing, however, and is apparent even when there's no lockdown, since there remain few – if any – trans-specific medical practitioners in the Philippines, perhaps even more particularly in provinces.
"Sana di na magtagal ito ng sobra (I hope the lockdown doesn't last long)," Latorre said, because "alam ko din naman na kailangan pa din to see a doctor lalo na sa too-serious na matters (I recognize that there is still need to see a doctor, particularly for very serious matters)."
For Latorre, "nakakatulong ang organization (trans organizations help)." For instance, members of trans organizations can give tips re transitioning, or – if meds are needed – they can "lend" supplies.
In Cebu in central Philippines, Robinson said that transpinays asked their networks on where to get supplies. And when supplies are really hard to get, "we just advise them on the alternatives – e.g. maybe there are fruits that have high estrogen or anti-androgen properties."
Some food that are estrogen-rich, and help lower testosterone levels include: soy products like edamame, tofu, soy milk and miso; spearmint and peppermint; licorice root; vegetable oils; flaxseed; and certain types of nuts.
"We give out this information so we have alternatives for them," said Robinson, adding that those who received the information are "advised to share the same to their contacts."
For Robinson, "everyone is experiencing difficulties," she said, so "we have to support each other, fix each other's crown."
Latorre also has a practical recommendation: Since trans people are at home during the lockdown, they may want to use this to find time to talk to their families. "Baka ito na ang oras to open up (Maybe this is a good time to open up)," he said.
Cordova said that the lockdown highlights that "it's about time that we comfort each other. We can't expect our government, or other people to comfort us."
Meanwhile, Parreno has practical recommendations.
"Let's support our government – e.g. when it says for us to stay home, stay home. Talagang malaki ang impact nito (This has a big impact)," she said. "Ipakita natin… na hindi tayo pasaway (Let's show others we're not troublesome)."
And in the end, "let's pray that this will end soon para magkita-kita na tayo ulit, maka-rampa na tayo ulit (so we can see each other again, and wander/jaunt again)."
Editor's Picks
Living with HIV at the time of Covid-19 lockdown
To date, there is still no evidence that the risk of infection of #COVID19 is different among persons living with #HIV. But the #lockdown is worsening the situation of many PLHIVs – e.g. in accessing their life-saving medicines, loss of income/livelihood, exclusion in government responses, depression, et cetera.
"Nakakadagdag ng takot (Covid-19 adds to the fear) of persons living with HIV," said Anthony Louie David, a Filipino living with HIV.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), "at present there is no evidence that the risk of infection or complications of COVID-19 is different among PLHIVs who are clinically and immunologically stable on antiretroviral treatment when compared with the general population." WHO added that "it is unknown if the immunosuppression of HIV will put a person at greater risk for COVID-19."
However, "until more is known, additional precautions for all people with advanced HIV or poorly controlled HIV, should be employed." This is because "PLHIVs with advanced disease, those with low CD4 and high viral load and those who are not taking antiretroviral treatment have an increased risk of infections and related complications in general."
And so for David, because those with weaker immune systems are at higher risk of getting infected with Covid-19, "andoon yung takot (the fear is there)."
Rogeselle Burdeos Monton, also a PLHIV and the research and development officer of the Culture and Arts Managers of the Philippines, said that there's that "worry within yourself" that because one is immunocompromised, "you might end up being infected with another virus."
The fear – not just the lockdown – has been limiting.
David, for instance, hasn't been out of his house for weeks now – e.g. other family members have to do the groceries for him.
David is also troubled that his supply of life-saving antiretroviral (ARV) medicines is about to run out. "My treatment hub is in the City of Manila, and I am now in Biñan City, Laguna (approximately 31 kilometers away)."
Living in a different local government unit (LGU) is also an issue because people from outside Metro Manila (where his treatment hub is) are barred from entering Metro Manila.
At least for Moses Myro Ayuha, another person living with HIV, "luckily, I have supplies until May." But Ayuha said that there are "blood brothers" who are really having difficulty in accessing their ARVs.
The Department of Health (DOH) tried to remedy this issue.
In March, DOH released an advisory that recognizes that "this current situation poses challenges in accessing life-saving medications… which may result in treatment interruption", so it is mandating treatment facilities to "exhaust all possible methods to ensure reliable access to PLHIVs to treatment without having to risk increased exposure to Covid-19 when accessing their medicines."
Meaning: PLHIVs can get their supplies (while the lockdown is ongoing) in other hubs that are nearest to them; or have their ARVs delivered to them, among others.
Monton's hub delivered his ARVs for him… but he had to pay for the courier/shipping fee on his own, which may be an issue for those who do not have money to do so.
Monton also noted that there are also confusions – e.g. the process of accessing ARVs in hubs not yours, with policies supposedly announced by the DOH causing confusion instead of clarity.
And so Monton said that some end up "borrowing meds."
David noted how non-government organizations (NGOs) and community-based organizations (CBOs) are stepping up. For instance, there are those that deliver the ARVs to those who can't leave their houses – e.g. #AwraSafely has some guide for PLHIVs during the time of Covid-19.
Helping is also done to those who have lost their means of living – e.g. the AIDS Society of the Philippines (ASP) gives out some amount to HIV-positive mothers and/or their kids, as well as healthcare providers who are rendering HIV-related services during the Covid-19 lockdown period.
This is particularly helpful to those "na walang kakayanang bumili ng pagkain nila ngayong may lockdown dahil wala ring trabaho ngayon," David said.
Sadly – and this is worth highlighting – many of the existing solutions are available for PLHIVs in metropolitan areas, such as Metro Manila, where many NGOs and CBOs operate. Outside of Metro Manila, in the provinces, already problematic access to ARVs are worsened by the Covid-19 lockdown. Monton knows of a PLHIV in Laguna, for instance, who had to spend an entire day just to get through a series of checkpoints to access the nearest treatment hub to him; and then when he got there, "siguro nagmakaawa (maybe he begged) just to be given ARVs."
Like the rest of the population, the livelihood of PLHIVs are just-as-affected by the Covid-19 lockdown.
Ayuha, for one, said that – at least where he's staying, a halfway house for PLHIVs – they now rely on donations of food packs. "Nakakaraos din (We get by somehow)," he said.
But Ayuha said that "I am unable to do (what I usually do daily)," including giving HIV-related lectures (while working for non-government organizations). "Nabago talaga dahil di ka nga makalabas (This really changed because you can't go out)."
David is the same; with his income usually sourced from giving HIV-related talks. And with gatherings cancelled because of the lockdown, "walang maasahan kundi pamilya ko lang (I only rely on my family)."
Monton, meanwhile, is a freelance worker, so his earnings are also affected. He may be luckier than most because he has savings; but he knows of other PLHIVs who – even now – are already worrying where to source the money for the incoming months' bills (e.g. rent, utilities, et cetera).
Monton actually hopes that that the government's financial support be made more inclusive. "When it comes to evaluating people who are currently financially challenged." At the end of the day, he added, even PLHIVs are "also tax-payers."
David said that there are other issues affecting PLHIVs now highlighted by Covid-19 – e.g. depression. To deal with this, he recommends "keeping yourself busy."
So David said: "Better your immune system because Covid-19 isn't just going to be here now. Even without the lockdown, Covid-19 will still be there. So gain strength so that when the lockdown is lifted and we're finally allowed to go out, we know we'd still be safe because we've properly prepared."
Monton gives three practical tips.
First, with being idle affecting mental health, along with the fear of getting Covid-19 and accessing ARVs, "learn how to divert your attention," he said. "Your fears are valid, but focus on your well-being as a PLHIV."
Second, take precautions – e.g. wear face mask when going out, disinfect particularly before touching the face, et cetera.
And third, "magdasal (pray)," he said. Maybe not even because one is religious, but for "peace of mind… somehow it helps."
For Ayuha, "PLHIVs should take precautionary measures… particularly if they go out." Practically, "wear mask," he said, though more importantly, "better your immune system… and huwag praning (stop panicking)."
Editor's Picks
LGBTQIA people as Covid-19's hidden victims forced to choose between risking infection or starving
How Covid-19 – and the eventual lockdowns – is impacting the livelihood of LGBTQIA people.
Choosing to go out while the world is panicking over Covid-19 is "scary," said Bella Abac, a freelance hairdresser/make-up artist from the City of Bacoor in the Province of Cavite. Though she knows she may be putting herself at risk of getting infected by the dreaded novel coronavirus 2019, "kailangan ko naman ay budget… kasi ito yung source of income ko (I need earn… because this is my source of income)."
The government – e.g. the barangay – gave some support; in Abac's case, a few kilos of rice, noodles and canned goods. But since the Covid-19 lockdown is expected to last for weeks, this is obviously not going to be enough. And so putting one at risk (and others at risk, for that matter) becomes a necessity to survive.
According to Ging Cristobal, project coordinator for Asia & Pacific Islands Region of OutRight Action International: "'Yung Covid-19, napakalaki ng pinsala sa lahat (Covid-19 did big damage do everyone)" though even more so to minority sectors like the LGBTQIA community.
To start, there's the damage done to livelihood, she said. Many LGBTQIA people still experience discrimination that force them to engage in informal sectors; "ibig sabihin nito, sila ay hairdresser, staff sa grocery, eatery, palengke… at alam natin na ito ay 'No work, No pay.' Mas pagtuunan natin ng pansin yung mga marginalized sectors (this means that these people are hairdressers, staff in groceries or eateries or markets… and they don't earn if they don't work. We should give attention to those in the marginalized sectors)."
The economic impact of Covid-19 is now being discussed, including in the Philippines. In February, for instance, Statista.com, for instance, reported that about 75% of Filipinos perceived that the Covid-19 outbreak would affect the international economy, while 65% believed the national economy of the Philippines would be affected.
In fact, as of early March 2020, the global pandemic already contracted a decline of 2.4% in US's GDP. Specific to the Philippines, the World Bank still sees the country's economy to grow by 3% at best, contracting 0.5% at worst in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. But really, it is still too early to see how big an impact Covid-19 will have on the economy.
What abounds now, instead, are anecdotal evidence of the difficulties experienced because of the pandemic, and the lockdowns implemented to monitor/control the same.
For Elden Lopena, owner of Top Touch Beauty Salon in Cotabato City, we should be thankful that we're not as of yet as affected by other bigger countries; but "sana matapos na ito para di na masyado magtagal ang hirap (hopefully this ends soon so the hardships don't last long)".
Lopena lamented that as an owner of a salon, "meron din akong mga tauhan (I also have staff)" and he needs to help them with their daily needs, even as he worries where to source money for would-be expenses for his business (e.g. rental, utilities). Therefore, closing – even temporarily – has a big impact.
Maureen Mejia Chan, owner of Salon de Maureen in Makati City, estimates that she'd lose over P100,000 because of the lockdown, and so "hindi ko alam ano ang gagawin ko (I don't know what I'd do)."
The difficulty is more pronounced for those who earn daily wages, said Ms Garner delos Reyes Lagare, salon owner/hair and make-up artist/PMU artist and instructor. "Ang nakaka-awa ay yung mga taong walang ipon (It's sadder for people without savings)" because they don't have the capacity to buy basic needs (e.g. food, milk for babies, medicines, etc).
Workers in informal sectors – as noted by Cristobal – worry day to day.
Vinz Calvin (a.k.a. Lumina), a drag queen, said that with venues where they perform closed (for three weeks now), they haven't been earning at all.
To earn, some become more creative.
"Some drag queens, they hold shows online," Vinz Calvin said. The viewers give "tips" by sending these to remittance centers/apps.
The "creativity" assumes, however, that everyone affected by lockdown has access to the same internet (and speed) services, which isn't the case. Globe Telecom, for instance, urges subscribers to be 'conscientious' with internet use while most Filipinos are working from home, highlighting the impact of the demand on the connections/availability of connections.
Like Abac, who used to occasionally take risks by still services clients out of necessity, Lopena said that he knows of others who also do home service.
"Kung makakalabas… lalabas (If we can go out of our houses, we do so to serve clients)," he said, so that "kahit papaano makakatulong din sa pang-araw-araw na gastusin (so it helps in daily expenses)."
But fear (of getting infected or infecting others) is limiting this now, on top of the need to comply with the lockdowns, else risk getting arrested. And so many are basically left to be hungry.
For Cristobal, the Covid-19 lockdown also has an unwanted effects.
There's the surfacing of anti-LGBTQIA practices – e.g. in Quezon City, a lesbian couple complained that they did not receive goods from the local government because they were not considered "household"/"family". The city is fortunate enough to have an existing anti-discrimination ordinance (ADO) that prohibits discrimination of LGBTQIA people within the city, so that the issue of the lesbian couple was resolved; but other local government units (LGUs) also in lockdown do not have ADOs.
It also puts members of the LGBTQIA community to be in situations/locations where they are at risk of getting abused – e.g. students, for instance, are now forced to be at home for the whole day, even if family members may not be accepting of them, or are even abusive of them.
Chan said that she heard of the support the government is supposed to give to small- and medium-sized businesses, like her salon. If true, she said it could help because "it's difficult for businesspeople who are at a loss on where yo source the fund to continue financing their businesses."
But Chan is among those at a loss on how to access/avail of this said support.
Vinz Calvin added that, in the case of drag queens for instance, who are also workers in the entertainment industry, "we're not even sure if we qualify to ask for government support." And this is even if this support is just-as-needed by them.
For some, giving help is becoming normal (in lieu of relying on government help). Lopena, for instance, said that "yung naitabi naming salapi, tinutulungan na rin namin sila (we use our savings to help our staff)."
But for Lopena, "yung hingi ng mamamayan kasi, yung pagkain… sana mabigyan sila ng tamang ayuda (what people are asking for, including food… hopefully the government can help them with that)."
The sentiment was shared by Lagare who said that getting help is ideal, though currently, the promised help is not reaching to target populations. "Kaya nakaka-awa talaga yung walang ipon sa ganitong panahon (Those who do not have savings are disadvantaged at times like this)."
And so Abac said that government should prioritize those who are in dire need of support. She added, though, that "yung iba naman na kaya namang makabili, huwag na daing nang daing kasi ang government ay kumikilos naman (those who can afford to buy, stop simply complaining because the government is acting anyway)."
Eventually, said Vinz Calvin, people should learn to be more prepared.
"Hopefully something like this doesn't happens again, but in case it does, at least we have savings to use," he said.
But while everyone is affected, LGBTQIA people should be very mindful, said Cristobal.
"Itong mga darating na panahon ay hindi ko alam kung mas magiging mabuti na ang kalagayan o mas (sasama) pa. Pero kahit sana anong mangyari, hindi tayo laging iniiwan (I don't know if things will get better of worse. But whatever happens, LGBTQIA people shouldn't be left behind)," Cristobal ended.
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subset: commoncrawl


text: Governments and development agencies spend large resources building property and company registries to protect property rights. When these efforts succeed, owners feel safer and are encouraged to invest in their property, and banks are able to use it as collateral for credit. Similarly, firms prosper when entrepreneurs transform their firms into legal entities and can thus contract more safely. Unfortunately, developing registries is harder than it may seem to observers, especially in developed countries, where registries are often taken for granted. As a result, policies in this area mostly disappoint.Benito Arruñada aims to avoid such failures by deepening our understanding of both the value of registries and the organizational requirements for constructing them. Presenting a theory of how registries strengthen property rights and reduce transaction costs, he analyzes the major tradeoffs and proposes principles for successfully building registries in countries at different stages of development. Arruñada focuses on land and company registries, explaining the difficulties they face, including current challenges like the subprime mortgage crisis in the USA and the dubious efforts made in developing countries toward universal land titling. Broadening the account, he extends his analytical framework to other registries, including intellectual property and organized exchanges for financial derivatives. With its nuanced presentation of the theoretical and practical implications, Institutional Foundations of Impersonal Exchange significantly expands our understanding of how public registries facilitate economic growth."This is law and economics at its best. Benito Arruñada's brilliant book greatly advances our understanding of how law and legal institutions affect the possibilities for trade. Very unusually, it also demonstrates how the needs of transacting parties and the interests of those who serve them profoundly shape a wide range of institutions from contract enforcement to title registries"—Henry E. Smith, Harvard Law School"With Institutional Foundations of Impersonal Exchange, Benito Arruñada fills an important gap in the literature on institutions and economic growth. He recognizes the importance of impersonal exchange for growth, but also understands there are trade-offs in developing the institutional framework for such exchange. This book is a "must read" for anyone who wants to understand the full range of rules governing property rights protection, enforcement, and exchange."—P.J. Hill, Wheaton College"Benito Arruñada has produced a masterly analysis informed by sound economic and legal theory. It deals with a very real-world problem: the issue of how best to provide security to participants in transactions in impersonal contexts. His focus on impersonality clarifies the fundamentals of a long-running debate in the world of development over the priority to be given to formalization of land rights. Registration, his analysis suggests, is properly seen as a response to the needs of impersonal markets in land, not a magic wand for creating them."—John W. Bruce, Land and Development Solutions International, Inc.The University of Chicago Presswww.press.uchicago.eduISBN-13: 978-0-226-02835-4ISBN-10: 0-226-02835-6


text:
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Get the very best of all-American made quality with Russells' wide range of boots, with each pair in this section lovingly handcrafted in the USA. With a style, fit, and purpose to suit each and every type of customer, we provide both traditional Country Western-style cowboy boots that are guaranteed to turn heads wherever you go, as well as strong and sturdy work boots designed for all types of outdoor conditions.
Every pair of boots on this page has been crafted by only the best American boot makers that understand the importance of a well-made pair of boots that will last the wearer for many years. So, whether you're looking for a strong pair of work boots or a stylish pair of boots for day-to-day wear, we offer a variety of options to suit a range of working conditions. Some of our work boots are equipped with a steel toe to protect feet from strain or injury, and many are waterproof — perfect for even the most severe wet and rainy conditions. Alternatively, we provide traditional cowboy boots, a staple of American culture and identity. We sell handcrafted, hard-working cowboy boots both men and women and for each and every member of the family, no matter how young or old. All in all, what we're most proud of is that we offer all the boots on our site at incredibly reasonable prices — a factor that you simply will not find elsewhere. Order your pair today for only the very best in all-American style and quality.


text:
Huntsville City Schools is launching a pilot program that keeps tabs on student bus use.
Huntsville City Schools in Alabama will soon be tracking which students are riding on school buses and where they're getting on and off.
Starting in February, students at three schools in the district will be issued identification cards with radio frequency identification device (RFID) technology. As riders board and leave the bus, a scanner will pick up the signal and log them in and out. Combined with GPS, the system will then transmit the location data to a remote server that a Huntsville school official can access if needed.
Called ZPass, Keith Ward, spokesman for Huntsville City Schools said the program — developed by Zonar Systems — is designed to enhance child safety and should provide peace of mind for parents if their children aren't on the bus they expect them on. The initial pilot project will consist of an elementary school, middle school and high school.
"If you have a student that inadvertently gets on the wrong bus or an elementary student that wants to go home with their best friend and didn't communicate with their parents, that can cause a lot of stress for people trying to locate that child," Ward said.
Using ZPass, if a child got on a school bus, a school district official can quickly pull the data and determine which bus and what stop the student got off at. The information can then be relayed to concerned parents, caregivers and — if the situation requires — law enforcement personnel.
Currently, Huntsville City Schools use buses are outfitted with video surveillance. But Ward explained the district wanted to upgrade to something that would be more efficient than manually going through the video to find a child.
Each card reader will cost approximately $400 per bus, and a yearly $75 fee is assessed for each of the units. Ward indicated that if the program is deemed successful, it would be deployed districtwide on all buses next fall.
The tracking system will be handled entirely by Zonar. The data collected will go to a server provided and hosted by the vendor that a Huntsville City Schools representative will be able to access online through an encrypted website.
Ward said that even if someone acquired the username and password for the school district's account, the Web portal from Zonar isn't located on the company's homepage. So while not impossible to find, the login screen would be difficult to locate.
In addition, for those parents who think this system will allow them to remotely log in and check up on their kids — think again. Although Zonar offers an upgraded version of Zpass that would allow parents to receive tracking info from their children via mobile device or on a computer, Huntsville City Schools isn't pursuing that option.
"It's only going to be someone at the district level that has the ability to access the information," Ward said.
So what happens when students forget to bring their identification cards, lose them, or — *gasp* — play games regarding checking in as they get on the bus? Ward said a variety of policies are being developed to address various situations.
School bus drivers will be expected to watch each student use their card as they board and exit. Ward explained that the system makes a loud "beep" when used, so monitoring use should be fairly easy. For those who lose the cards, extras are being made and the district is expecting students and their parents to handle getting a replacement fairly quickly.
"If you come three consecutive days and you haven't resolved your issue with your card, you would not be allowed to ride the bus," Ward said.


text:
One Room Challenge: Week 4~
Welcome to week 4 of my kitchen transformation for the One Room Challenge.
Not much in the way of progress photos to show today. But the big news is ...painting of the cabinets starts today! And I couldn't be more excited!
Rather than using Sherwin Williams Alabaster as I mentioned previously, I'm actually going to use a white paint color-matched to the existing white paint on the island. I'm thinking this is going to be the best bet so that the white paint color is a true match.
Here's one more reminder of the before...
Next week I'll share a few sneak peeks...I can't wait for the big reveal...just 2 weeks away now!


text:
Occupational therapy (OT) benefits people of all ages with various diagnoses, ranging from mild to severe conditions such as stroke, heart attack, motor vehicle injuries, brain injury, head trauma, spinal cord injury and orthopedic injury. OT also helps patients with muscular sclerosis, Guillian Barre and Parkinson's disease.
Occupational therapists help people regain or relearn activities of daily living such as getting out of bed, dressing, bathroom safety, bathing, using durable medical equipment and using adaptive equipment to make tasks easier. OTs develop ways for patients to perform homemaking tasks more independently and at a level of function that is safe for the individual. OT practitioners have an important role in educating caregivers and family members to assist or supervise patients to perform daily tasks safely and independently upon discharge. OTs also specialize in education of upper extremity management of the hand and arm function, neurological retraining and cognitive retraining.
OT treatment requires a physician's referral and often involves working in collaboration with physicians, physical therapists, speech therapists, recreational therapists, nurses, family members, caregivers and teachers.
Occupational therapy began in the early 20th century with a focus on the rehabilitation of disabled soldiers in World War I. The value of OT in treating physical dysfunction was recognized, spurring the growth of this field.
Occupational therapy is skilled treatment that helps individuals achieve independence in all facets of their lives. OT gives people "skills for the job of living" that are needed for independent and satisfying lives. Services typically include:
OT practitioners are skilled professionals whose education includes the study of human growth and development with specific emphasis on the social, emotional, and physiological effects of illness and injury. OTs enter the field with a bachelor's, masters or doctoral degree. The OT assistant generally earns an associate degree. Practitioners must complete supervised clinical internships in a variety of health care settings and pass a national examination. Most states also regulate occupational therapy practice.
Every day, children and adults have or develop health conditions that significantly affect their ability to manage their daily lives. With the help of occupational therapy, many of these individuals can achieve or regain a higher level of independence. When skill and strength cannot be developed or improved, OT offers creative solutions and alternatives for carrying out daily activities.
A wide variety of people can benefit from occupational therapy, including those with:
The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) is the nationally recognized professional association of more than 40,000 occupational therapists, occupational therapy assistants and students of occupational therapy. These individuals work in a wide range of settings including schools, higher education teaching programs, hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, home health environments, driver evaluations, work hardening programs, private practice, preventive care environments, community reintegration programs, outpatient rehabilitation clinics, psychiatric facilities and community health programs, to name a few. It is recommended that practicing OTs or certified occupational therapist assistants (COTA/L) become members of the AOTA.
OT practitioners can be credentialed at either the professional (occupational therapist) or technical (occupational therapy assistant) level. The OT completes a baccalaureate, entry-level master's, or entry-level doctoral degree, and the OTA completes a two-year associate degree (OTA) program at one of more than 300 accredited programs at colleges and universities throughout the United States. OT and OTA students also must complete a supervised fieldwork program and pass a national certification exam. All 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico regulate the practice of occupational therapy. Many of these jurisdictions mandate periodic continuing education requirements.
AOTA's accrediting body, the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE), has established standards for the profession that have been adopted by many states in their laws and regulations. AOTA, through its accrediting body, has accredited the nation's occupational therapy educational programs since 1935.
The National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy is a national governing organization that involves testing to certify therapists for national licensure. The West Virginia Occupational Therapy Association is a statewide organization that helps to maintain and organize OT events in West Virginia. Additionally, the West Virginia Board of Occupational Therapy (WVBOT) is a local governing organization that identifies and controls licensure laws and regulation of therapists who are employed in the state of West Virginia and protection of the consumers within the state. WVBOT keeps records of continuing education hours that allow therapists to continue practicing.
Sources: The American Occupational Therapy Association; Sarah Van R. M. Black, BA, COTA/L, CAMC Medical Rehabilitation Center


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- Product Features
Create impressive eye catching light installations with RGB Pixel Control LED Neon - without all the hassles of traditional glass neon. Achieve the look and feel of traditional glass neon without all of the maintenance and durability issues. LED Neon is low maintenance, durable, flexible, energy efficient, and bright! We are proud to announce that LED Neon is also UL Listed and runs off low voltage 24VDC, so it is safe to use.
RGB Pixel Control LED Neon combines the ability to produce millions of colors, with the technology needed to achieve individual pixel control. Pixel control LED Neon is capable of producing lighting effects that were never possible with traditional glass Neon. Easy to control when used in conjunction with any of our DMX controllers and universal decoder. This is a fantastic product for commercial, studio, architectural, and decorative purposes.
- Sold by the 1 meter reel, meter, injection molded sample kit and Custom Injection Molded Neon by the meter.
- Each RGB LED pixel (group of 7 LEDs) is individually addressable, so you can set the color for each one independent of every other pixel.
- Durable and low maintenance, especially in comparison to traditional glass neon.
- Easy-to-install using the custom aluminum channel designed specifically for mounting LED Neon.
- Cut to your desired length using Shears designed specifically for cutting LED Neon.
- Maximum run length is 10 m powered from one end, or 20 m from both ends.
- Additional accessories sold separately (see companion parts tab).
- Specifications:
- Red, Green, Blue (623/522/472 nm wavelength.)
- 24 volts DC.
- Inputs: +24V, DATA, and GND.
- PixelControl LED Neon is one directional, so be sure to pay close attention to the orientation of the string. The input direction is always indicated by an arrow.
- 12 watts (3.7 watts/foot = 12 watts/meter.)
- Length: 3.3 ft = 1 m.
- Width: 0.46 in = 11.6 mm.
- Height: 0.83 in = 21.2 mm.
- LED spacing: 0.7 in = 17.9 mm.
- Cuttable in segments of 7 LED nodes. Cutting increment: 4.92 in = 125 mm.
- UL, RoHS.
- Minimum bending diameter is 12 cm - bending the LED Neon more than this will cause damage.
- Do not hang or suspend LED Neon without proper mounts or supports.
- 50,000 hours expected lifetime.
- Warranty: 3 years limited.
- No Ultra-Violet emissions, so it won't harm your art or documents.
- We use high quality LEDs for maximum color vibrancy, longevity and a well-balanced 'all-on' white. We pay more for our LED components, and you'll benefit from the difference. This is not a commodity product. Quality matters, and the materials, controls, connections and tech support we provide will make your project successful.
- Cut LED Neon is not returnable.
- We provide detailed installation instructions, design criteria and technical support upon request.
- Applications
- Specifications
Ambient Temperature -20°C to 45°C Average Lifetime 50,000 hours Beam Angle 160° Finish White Finish Height (English) 0.83 in Height (Metric) 21.2 mm Input Current 500 mA Input Voltage 24 DC LED Density 60 LEDs/meter LED Node Size 5050 LED Spacing (English) 0.66 in LED Spacing (Metric) 16.7 mm Length (English) 3.28 ft Length (Metric) 1 m Light Color RGB Light Color Detail Red, Green, Blue Manufacturer EnvironmentalLights Min. Cutting Increment (English) 4.92 in Min. Cutting Increment (Metric) 125 mm Power (Watts) 12 Power (Watts/ft) 3.70 Power (Watts/m) 12.00 Rating UL, RoHS Warranty 3 years limited Wavelength 623/522/472 Width (English) 0.46 in Width (Metric) 11.6 mm
- Documentation
- Photos & Videos
- Reviews
Write Your Own Review
- Accessories
LED Neon Secure Grip Mounting Clip - 20mm
Price Per Unit :


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Teriyaki salmon bento
I think life is too short to keep the frozen salmon in the fridge! :-) So I made a teriyaki salmon bento, which was so fast to cook, that I had too much idle time in the morning... Just be careful not to overcook the teriyaki sauce, because it may have a burnt taste. Also, optional lotus root slices will keep the fish tender and juicy for the time when you can finally devour every last bit of it ;-)
Pineapple teriyaki curry with chicken
Give yourself an oriental, savory feast with this simple, yet very spectacular dish. Simple, tasty, and doesn't require lots of ingredients, which is a perfect idea for a nice, cozy evening.
Vegetarian bento
Today was one of these days that my coffee needed a coffee... And I really couldn't make myself cook in the morning. So, the vegetarian bento was made! It's fast, it's simple, and it tasted great. Consider that a fancy salad for lazy days.


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Sour Cherry Jam
(Visne Receli)
1 jar red sour pitted cherries in light syrup, 796 ml (2 cup cherries + 1 1/2 cup cherry juice)
1 1/2 cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
One lemon juice
Place the cherry juice, sugar and vanilla in a medium-size pot. Cook for about 10 minutes at medium-low heat. Then add the cherries (if you like, cut each in two pieces) and cook for 15-20 more minutes (total 25-30 minutes).
Add the lemon juice, stir and turn the heat off. Remove the pot from the heat and cool for a few minutes. Pour carefully into canning jar and seal. Store in a dark and cool place.
My mum has a sweet tooth, and always kept some dessert at home. She loves to eat Sour Cherry Jam poured on top of the Ricotta Cheese or Yogurt with almond slices.
You can also serve Sour Cherry Jam as an ice cream topping with almond slices:)
*Sour Cherry Jam is loved in my family. That's why I always cook it for any season using cherries in a jar. It is already pitted and they taste as if freshly picked from trees:)
If you use fresh Sour Cherries (Morallo Cherries), here is the recipe:
500 g fresh sour cherry, pitted
500 g sugar
Juice of half lemon
Layer cherries and sugar in a saucepan overnight. The following morning, start cooking at low-medium heat. Stir until the sugar melts. Remove the scum from the surface. Cook until the mixture reaches jam consistency. Add the lemon juice 1-2 minutes before you turn the heat off and stir.
Labels: Jam-Marmalade


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SMARC 2.0-Zynq UltraScale+ MPSoC
MSC Technologies Presents Worldwide First SMARC 2.0 Module with Zynq UltraScale+ MPSoC from Xilinx
MSC Technologies, the technology brand of Avnet Integrated Solutions, expands its SMARC 2.0™ product portfolio and presents the MSC SM2S-ZUSP module.
SMARC 2.0-Modul
MSC Technologies Delivers First SMARC 2.0 Module with new i.MX8M Processor from NXP
MSC Technologies, the technology brand of Avnet Integrated Solutions, presents the MSC SM2S-IMX8M SMARC 2.0™ module, which integrates the current 64-bit i.MX8M ARM® Cortex™-A53 processor from NXP, at the embedded world 2018.
Fujitsu D3544-S
MSC Technologies Delivers Industrial Mini-STX Mainboard from Fujitsu with Intel Celeron Processors "Gemini Lake"
MSC Technologies, the technology brand of Avnet Integrated Solutions, expands its range of Fujitsu Industrial Series mainboards with the D3544-S.
About MSC
Solutions & Distribution
MSC Technologies offers leading edge embedded and display OEM products that support a quick and efficient time-to-market for industrial applications. In this product section you will find display and touch products, embedded boards and systems, wireless and memory/storage products for almost all requirements. Our specific lighting (LED) products and solutions are accompanied with laserdiode and power product lines.
Technologies & Markets
Our manifold solution competency will particularly benefit customers needing a tailored system that is based on building blocks and can be delivered quickly. Along with a broad range of standard products and our platform strategy, we quickly implement a customer-specific solution as a one-stop shop. MSC Technologies uses predefined building blocks, ranging from display and touch technologies, computer-on-modules and application-specific baseboards, wireless and memory components up to IPC housing technologies.
MSC Technologies, a business unit of Avnet Electronics Marketing EMEA, a business region of Avnet, Inc. (NYSE: AVT) specialises in intelligent embedded and display solutions for a range of different industrial applications. MSC Technologies, based in Stutensee, Germany, represents well-known manufacturers of TFT, touch and passive displays and offers customer-specific display solutions based on in-house technologies.


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Studies interaction between planners and institutions at different scales, from local to global/transnational. Emphasizes a historical and institutional approaches to development planning. Includes an overview of theories of development, state, organizational arrangements, and implementation mechanisms. Covers current topics in development planning, such as decentralization, participatory planning, urban-rural linkages, corruption, legal institutions and post-conflict development. Analyzes various roles planners play in different institutional contexts.
Restricted to first-year MCP and SPURS students.


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- Brain Hemorrhage Won't Stop This Teen From Voting
- Curbing COVID Brought Unexpected Benefit for Asthma Patients
- 1 in 3 Americans With Arthritis Say Pain, Symptoms Persist
- CDC Recommends Face Masks in All Public Transportation Settings
- Health Highlights: Oct. 20, 2020
- Big Babies May Face Higher Lifelong A-Fib Risk
- Staying Social Can Boost Healthy 'Gray Matter' in Aging Brains
- Newer Rheumatoid Arthritis Drug May Help Ease Tough-to-Treat Cases
- Reopened Schools in New York City Not Seeing COVID Case Spikes
- Health Highlights: Oct. 19, 2020
Loud Road Noise Linked to Stroke in Older Adults
TUESDAY, Jan. 25 (HealthDay News)– Prolonged exposure to loud traffic noise is strongly associated with stroke in people aged 65 and older, a new Danish study finds.
The researchers discovered that for every 10 decibels or more of road noise, a person's risk of having a stroke increased by 14 percent.
For people younger than 65, that did not translate into a statistically significant risk, but researchers found that among those 65 or older, stroke risk increased significantly, by 27 percent for every additional 10 decibels of noise. Also, in older people the researchers found evidence of a threshold limit around 60 decibels, above which the risk of stroke increased still more.
The study involved more than 57,000 people between the ages of 50 and 64 living near Copenhagen and Aarhus who were recruited for the Danish Diet, Cancer and Health cohort study between 1993 and 1997, according to study author Mette Sorensen, senior researcher at the Institute of Cancer Epidemiology of Danish Cancer Society in Copenhagen. The average follow-up time was 10 years.
"Although our study was the first study on traffic noise and stroke, I was not surprised of the results as earlier studies have found traffic noise to be associated with other cardiovascular diseases," Sorensen said. The study showed only an association between loud noise and stroke, she noted, adding that more research would need to be done to confirm the findings.
The study authors noted that their study took place in an urban area and so was not representative of the whole country. But by taking noise exposures at different dwellings into account and applying the findings across Denmark, Sorensen estimates that 600 new cases of stroke each year in her country could be attributed to road traffic noise. The 5.5 million inhabitants of Denmark suffer 12,400 new cases of stroke annually.
Although the study does not determine how road noise influences health, Sorensen believes stress is likely a factor.
"Exposure to traffic noise is believed to provoke a stress response and disturb sleep, which might increase the risk for stroke, through mechanisms including increased level of stress hormones, increased heart rate and blood pressure and impaired immune system," Sorensen said.
Researchers analyzed participants' medical and residential histories during an average 10-year period. A total of 1,881 suffered a stroke.
The researchers then measured their exposure to traffic sound over time using a noise calculation program designed to map noise levels in a variety of locations in Scandinavia for several years. The program takes into account a variety of factors that could amplify or blunt road noise, including traffic composition and speed, road surface and road type, nearby buildings and the position and heights of homes above the roads.
At the time the volunteers joined the study, 35 percent of them were exposed to noise levels greater than 60 decibels, and the majority (72 percent) lived at the same address throughout the study. Researchers estimated the lowest noise exposure to be 40 decibels and the highest to be 82 decibels.
They also accounted for a variety of other risk factors for stroke, such as air pollution, railway and aircraft noise, smoking, diet, alcohol and caffeine consumption.
The study is published in the current issue of the European Heart Journal.
The researchers "did a reasonable job of trying to control for other potential things that could affect the outcome," said Dr. Larry B. Goldstein, director of the Duke Stroke Center at Duke University in Durham, N.C.
However, Goldstein noted that there are likely a number of additional factors that could not have been accounted for. "These epidemiological studies are always subject to a variety of unmeasured biases that could potentially affect the outcome," he said.
For example, people living in areas with loud traffic noise are also likely have better access to fast food restaurants, and probably have a lower socioeconomic status than people in quieter suburban and rural areas, he noted. (The researchers also reported that a higher percentage of those exposed to noise over 60 decibels were from a lower income group, and since lower socioeconomic class is itself a predictor of stroke, they concluded they could not rule out the possibility that that skewed the results.)
"The other thing is, what do you do about it even if it's true? Move to electric cars and no horns?" Goldstein added.
The researchers had an answer for that.
Sorensen said the study could be used to argue for construction methods that limit exposure to traffic noise, such as roads built with noise-reducing asphalt and noise barriers, or homes built with noise-isolating windows and other materials that dampen loud sounds.
More information
To find out more about how loud noise affects your health, visit the World Health Organization.
Source: HealthDay


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Oprah Winfrey ended her interview with the Kardashian family last week in cliffhanger fashion.
America waited all week to find out if Kim's whirlwind romance with Kanye West was indeed a "fairy tale."
By the end of the program, it was clear that Kim Kardashian is happy with her new relationship with bad boy rapper West. But unlike many of Winfrey's other dramatic celebrity interviews, this one didn't feature a tear from Kim K. Not a single, solitary one.
"I don't know why it took us so long to get together," Kim said. "I think we've always had an attraction to each other. One day it just happened. It took me by surprise."
Kim also said that marriage isn't on her mind. That didn't stop her from purchasing a Lamborghini for West on his birthday, though. The couple is taking it slow.
Kim also discussed her brand, her own perception of her appearance and wrapped up by telling Winfrey where she feels most at peace.
"At my mom's house, or on a vacation," she said.
Winfrey then spent some time with Kloe and Lamar Odom, who said they are "always trying to get pregnant."
The couple also discussed their relationship and what it was like getting engaged after just one month of dating. She also mentioned how "grateful" she was to have a reality show.
Next up was Kourtney Kardashian and her boyfriend Scott Disick. Winfrey asked some of her most interesting questions here and point-blank told Disick he was the "black sheep" of the family. Their relationship was put under a microscope by Winfrey and even Disick himself, who admitted he's insecure at times.
The tone of the show lightened up a bit when the two younglings of the Kardashians, Kendall and Kylie Jenner, showed off the type of attire that would make any fashionista jealous. Let's put it this way: they could own their own store. Charming and upfront, these two are naturals in front of the camera and made for some of the best moments of the special.
It all ended with a backyard conversation with the patriarch and matriarch of the Kardashian kingdom: Bruce Jenner and Kris. This was the first time Bruce spoke in the special and, aside from admitting he's constantly in "the shadow of estrogen," he admitted the Kris Humphries/Kim wedding was a bit over the top.
"We went so overboard on that. And, the way it turned out and everything," Bruce said. "And, because I mean, at the time it was honest, it was love, it was exact, I mean, I was all in, you know? But then it turned so quickly."
The final question from Winfrey was a great one, but one that viewers wanted to know last week. Is Kris ready for the show to be over?
"I think I am. I think we're having a lot of fun," Kris told Winfrey. "But I'm acutely aware that one day it will be over."


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Sort by:
Backlight Dimming Algorithms
Benefits of DLP Pico technology for Mobile Smart TV
Comparing High Dynamic Range (HDR) and Standard Dynamic Range (SDR) Displays
Display Fundamentals
DLP Technology for Smart Screenless TVs
DLP660TE, DLPC4422, DLPA200 Chipset Overview and target display applications
Getting familiar with the supply chain options for system implementation
HD3SS2521: The Worlds First DockPort Controller
High Dynamic Range (HDR) Display Architecture
High Dynamic Range (HDR) Displays
High Resolution 4K UHD Digital Display Solutions using DLP® Technology
This series highlights the high-resolution DLP 4K UHD digital display solution for laser tv and digital signage applications. The DLP 4K UHD chipset, featuring the DLP660TE digital micromirror device (DMD), enables bright and large images for projection systems. The series includes:
- DLP 4K UHD training overview
- Chipset overview and target display applications
- System design considerations
- Supply chain options for system implementation
- Getting started resources
How TI DLP Pico technology fits within wearable display systems
How to get started using the DLP 4K UHD chipset
How to Improve Battery Efficiency and Audio Quality with TAS5825M Audio Amplifier
As the entrance of search engine, the explosive growth in wireless speaker or AI speaker is driving the new requirements of audio amplifier - higher efficiency and better audio quality.
Facing these new challenges, TAS5825M (closed loop classD with 38W stereo output) develops a lot of advanced features compared with traditional audio amplifier, which includes:
Improve Bass and Loudness with Smart Amp Using the TAS5825M Class-D Audio Amplifier
Introduction to Display Backlighting
LED Backlight Design Considerations
Linear vs. Exponential Dimming in LCDs


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With more than 1,000 national parks within our state borders, opportunities to encounter rare wildlife in its natural habitat are always around the corner. Explore underground lava tubes, relax at some of the world's most famous beaches or boot up and hit one of our Great Walks.
Did you know? Five of the 16 World Heritage Listed sites in Australia are on our turf, one of which is the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia which encompasses the natural beauty that is Lamington, Springbrook, Mt Barney and the Main Range national parks.
Why not put one of these Queensland national park top spots on your must-see list! Start exploring below.


text: Ever wonder if serrated or plain edge is more popular? well we've put together our sales data to make an infographic with just that information. We found 68% of people buy plain edge knives over 32% of people who buy serrated/combo. We also calculated the average cost of a knife based on it's blade steel. On the cheaper side the average cost of 8CR13MOV knives was $30, while the average cost of a Damascus knife was $353. In the Fixed vs Folding realm folding won with 6 out of 10 people buying folders. Knives made in the USA were most popular while China made knives were second. Liner lock was nearly 50% of all sales based on lock type. We hope this information helps you make a buying decision on your next knife.


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T-Mobile will be the first US Carrier to release the 9900. I am sure AT&T and other US carriers will follow, however T-Mo wins the prize for 1st place. On August 31st, these devices will hit the shelves.
T-Mobiles Facebook Press Release:
Available August 31, the BlackBerry® Bold 9900 will be the first 4G BlackBerry® smartphone to run on Americas Largest 4G Network. The 4G-capable BlackBerry Bold 9900 is the thinnest BlackBerry smartphone ever (at only 10.5mm) and the first to offer the perfect union of a high-performance keyboard and brilliant touch display integrated within the iconic BlackBerry Bold design. Featuring a range of powerful hardware enhancements including a 1.2 GHz processor, Liquid Graphics technology 24-bit high-resolution graphics and advanced sensors, the new smartphone is designed to deliver the ultimate in communications, multimedia and productivity. The BlackBerry Bold 9900 is expected to cost $299.99 after a $50 mail-in-rebate card, with a two-year service agreement and qualifying Classic voice and data plan.


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The student-run Volunteer Services office at Hope College is sponsoring "Moonlight Serenade," a ball for area senior citizens and Hope students, at Evergreen Commons on Friday, March 5, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
The event, in its fourth year, will include music, dancing and appetizers, with Hope students serving as hosts. Last year approximately 200 senior citizens and Hope students attended.
Senior citizens or Hope students interested in attending this year should call Evergreen Commons at (616) 396-7100.
Evergreen Commons is located at 480 State St., where State and Michigan Avenue intersect near 21st Street.


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As historic types, Chicago aldermen do not lack for color. But despite the height of the bar for eccentricity on the City of Chicago's council, Ald. John Coughlin vaults over it with ease. In his time around the turn of the last century — a time shared with "Hinky Dink" Kenna and other characters you'll know and love if you've read Karen Abbott's "Sin in the Second City," Erik Larson's "Devil in the White City" or other chronicles of Chicago's famously decadent Levee district, Coughlin (aka "Bathhouse John") was an alderman for 46 years. He started out as a bathhouse scrubber and finished atop an empire of graft and protection as a "Lord of the Levee," to quote the late Herman Kogan.
Coughlin died in poverty. But before that, he took it upon himself to open a menagerie and amusement park near Cheyenne Canyon, Colo., replete with an elephant snagged from the Lincoln Park Zoo. In 1905, the Tribune reported on the escape of one of Coughlin's deer, which ran through Ivywild, a suburb of Colorado Springs and the name of the latest, rather confounding show at The Hypocrites.
As penned by Jay Torrence, the hugely promising "Ivywild" draws the logical conclusion that Coughlin funded his failed amusement park with the fruits of his various Chicago rackets. In its best moments, it explores the very interesting question as to why such a powerful man would sink his fate into such an eccentric enterprise. A sudden desire for bucolic redemption far from the Levee? A love of the tawdry? General aldermanic weirdness? What?
Alas, the play does not really say, partly because it gets trapped in its own devices to such a degree that what should be a fascinating central character disappears into his own show. "Ivywild," which is directed (overdirected) by Halena Kays, features a truly fascinating set from Lizzie Bracken. In one of the best off-Loop designs of the season, Bracken stuffs hundreds of colored lights and what feels like an entire carousel, not to mention other visual sculptures and accouterments, into the basement of the Chopin Theatre. It is spectacular and desperately pathetic, both at once.
If only the narrative trajectory of the show followed through on those inspired visual notions. Certainly, it is reasonable to tell Coughlin's story without overt realism, but, surely, here was a man of astounding contrasts: part Chicago alderman, part sad-sack P.T. Barnum, part Al Capone. Those edges are not drawn with any clarity in a piece that stars the energetic author (not a smart choice), who is very broad and invulnerable. Ultimately, the show gets played mostly for artsy laughs.
Despite the very honorable attempts of actors like Ryan Walters, Kurt Chiang, Tien Doman (playing, Lord help her, The Amusement) and Anthony Courser (who is just fantastic, and truthful, as Princess the elephant), the piece still can't enlighten or satisfy us as to why the music started at Bathhouse John's park and what made it, and him, come to a crashing stop.
Twitter @ChrisJonesTrib
When: Through June 16
Where: Chopin Theatre, 1543 W. Division St.
Running time: 1 hour, 35 mins.
Tickets: $28 at 773-525-5991 or the-hypocrites.com