text:
15 Adorable Photos Of Babies And Books
If you haven't spent countless hours trapped in the various #babiesreadingbooks hashtags yet, let's just say you might want to save that undertaking for a day when your boss is out of the office. And, you know, you've met all those pressing project deadlines. Because let me warn you: there is some serious cannot-look-away cuteness in store.
Lately, it seems like everyone I know is starting to have babies, and I gotta say most of them are pretty cute. While personally I tend to waver on the idea of producing a whole brand new tiny human of my own, there is definitely no question that I can get down with a baby reading a book. Especially if that baby is reading a book I kind of want to borrow. Now if only I could get one who popped out that way…
From the baby who flawlessly coordinated her outfit with her reading material, to the little guy who isn't totally sold on Albert Einstein's theory of special relativity, I've compiled a whole collection of squee-worthy babies-who-read photos for you. Even if you're not a self-proclaimed "baby person" these pics are going to be pretty hard to resist. Here are 15 adorable photos of babies reading books.
The Pretending-To-Read-At-The-Salon Baby
You might holding that book sideways, but your hair is going to look amazing.
The Matchy-Matchy Baby
(I secretly love when my outfit matches what I'm reading too.)
The Unhappy Ending Baby
If you can't believe how the ending of that little yellow duck's story turned out, just wait until you get to If You Give A Mouse A Cookie.
The Baby Who Needs A Coffee With Their Morning Reading
"I'll take a soy, double tall, caramel macchiato, extra foam, in my Cookie Monster sippy cup, please."
The Super-Advanced Baby
"Now, if the increased relativistic mass of a body originates from the energy of motion of the body, and mass and energy can be changed into each other, what does this mean for my 3:00 naptime?"
The Baby Who Knows What You're Thinking
And what you're thinking is: "Can I borrow that book when you're done?"
The Baby Who Learned Way More Than You Did From Reading This Morning's Newspaper
"I got this energy crisis thing covered Ma."
The Baby Who Isn't Sure If She's A Giant, Or If Pat The Bunny Is Just Really, Really Small
As is true for both books and babies, sometimes great things come in small packages.
The Thoroughly Engrossed Baby
What'cha got there? Proust?
The Baby Who'd Like To Move On To Green Eggs And Ham Now, Please
I feel ya Baby; I feel ya.
The Baby Who Just Can't Resist The Urge To Take A Bite
I felt the same way about Julie and Julia. *Noms.
The Baby Who Knows What A Great Beach Read Is Really For
It's all about the sun protection.
The Baby Who's Really Interested In Self Exploration
He just wants to make sure he's got this being-a-baby thing down pat.
The Baby Who Can't Figure Out Why This Book Never Gets Any Better...
...or why his parents never bothered to tell him the book is upside-down.
The Baby Who Really Can't Decide What To Read
I hate to tell you the struggle never gets easier, my tiny friend.
Images: Bart Heird, Haylee Sherwood, Quinn Dombrowski(2), Sergey, Harald Groven(2), Jennifer Pack, jinglejammer/flickr; Putri Purnamasari, Aemen Bell, Taylor Fogg, leah.cheryl, nikkidunkahue, Jennifer Deck, Carla Barry-Austin/Instagram


text:
The Guiding Light
How one master's art influenced another man's life
By Ron Laing
I was 5 years old when I started visiting my grandparents on their farm in Aroostook County, Maine. Dad had died the year before from war injuries. Suddenly Mother's parents became a big part of my life. Almost weekly I visited them in what I thought was the biggest farmhouse in the state.
If I stayed for more than a day, Grandma insisted I take an afternoon nap. It didn't matter to her that I was not tired. "Children need naps," she'd say. Occasionally she'd let me rest on her and Grandfather's big bed. I loved the smell of their room—it was like springtime with an aroma of flowers and freshness everywhere. In my childish mind I rationalized that this came from the roses on the wallpaper, but probably it was the perfumes and powders on Grandmother's dresser.
"Just lie down for a bit, even if you're not sleepy," she'd say.
"But Grandma, there are so many things to look at in here, why would I want to go to sleep?" But she had closed the door.
Putting Myself in the Picture
The thing I liked most in the room was a big picture with a brass plate that said in fancy writing, "The Guiding Light," the same title as one of Grandmother's favorite radio programs she listened to when I napped. In the picture was a girl about 4 and a boy just a little older walking down a narrow wooded path with steep drop-offs on either side. An angel with wings of grandeur and arms outstretched was walking close behind, a beam of light illuminating their way.
He's just guiding them along, I thought, imagining that Lorraine, my little sister, and I were the ones on the path. We stopped now and then to watch a butterfly or to smell the blue forget-me-nots beside the path—and then hurried on, careful not to fall down the embankments.
"Come, sleepyhead, we have things we must do before supper." I heard Grandmother's voice. Naptime was over, and I hadn't even been asleep! I tried hard to act like I just awoke. I walked in a wobbly way, wiping sleep from my eyes, but I was never sure Grandma believed my little act.
Years passed and my wife, Carolyn, and I had two little girls of our own. One day we discovered that a gifted artist, Harry Anderson, had painted a picture with a theme much the same as the one that hung in Grandmother's bedroom. I hung a copy in the bedroom our daughters shared, hoping they'd receive the same nostalgic satisfaction from this picture as I did from Grandmother's.
The Artist
Years later Carolyn and I had an opportunity to meet Harry Anderson. New England Memorial Hospital, a medical center north of Boston, was given a monetary donation with the proviso that it "must be used to reflect God's love to mankind for all people to see." Anderson had been commissioned to create a painting to embody this theme. Hospital administration, impressed with my cabinetmaking skills, requested I work with him in designing a suitable frame.
On a warm spring day we visited the Andersons in their cozy Connecticut home. Harry was a tall gentleman in the finest and most specific definition of the word: gentle, well spoken, perhaps a bit shy and reserved. The kindness in his eyes made me feel I was seeing right into his soul.
Later we followed him through a flowering apple orchard to his studio. Standing before us in the sunlight was an aged building—all weatherworn, with large windows on three sides. Its faded redwood stain made it blend picturesquely with the landscape. What a wonderful place to work. Inside, the smell of oil paint and turpentine was heavy, and there were dabs of every color of paint one might imagine. The large 8-by-1l-foot painting hung on the wall. Without speaking we gazed at a masterpiece.
The Painting
Pictured is a hospital sickroom—as real as if we'd walked into the canvas. A young girl lies quietly on white institutional sheets, beside her a concerned doctor. On the other side of the bed, a nurse looks on. The figure beside the doctor is Jesus, His hand resting lightly on the sick girl's forehead. The solemnity of the scene struck us, yet we felt an unspeakable calmness. We expressed our personal appreciation for this picture. More than ever we felt we were with a man of greatness.
This seemed the right time to tell him of his picture that hung so long in our daughters' bedroom and the joy it brought our family. He was delighted. "Call me Harry," he said, "Mr. Anderson is far too formal. Come, let me show you some of my other work. You see, painting is my profession, but carving is my hobby."
At the house we looked in amazement at sea birds seeming real enough to fly away if startled. Near sunset we got to the reason for our visit. We exchanged ideas for the frame's design and soon had decided on its esthetics and details. He explained how to properly mount the canvas and even gave me a tool to make my task easier.
"Keep the old tool as a remembrance of our day together," he said with a twinkle in his eye. Together we rolled $40,000 worth of artwork onto a piece of 5-inch plastic drainpipe and said goodbye. I could hardly wait to start construction and see Anderson's exquisite painting in our hospital lobby.
A Blessing Preserved
Visitors viewing the piece were in awe of the profound and powerfully conveyed image. For 20 years the piece remained where I hung it; then in 1999, after 100 years of health care service to the community, the 350-bed hospital closed.
For several years I did not know what happened to the Anderson painting, only that it was sold at auction. However, a few years ago I was delighted to learn that a friend, once an administrative intern at New England Memorial Hospital, bought the painting for a hospital where he was president. I visited the hospital in a brand new city called Celebration in central Florida and once again had the privilege to gaze at Anderson's masterpiece, still in my frame.
I talked with Harry on the phone several times after our visit. I even persuaded him to go to see the painting in its new home. He was delighted at the display and lighting; I was pleased when he smiled widely and approved of the framework.
The tool he gave me so long ago still hangs in my office as a daily reminder of all that's good in the world. Harry Anderson passed away in November 1996 at the age of 90. Like so many people around the world, our family's lives were impacted by his images, and we feel we lost a friend.
Ron Laing is a naturalist and photographer of renown who blends his art with his writing—his favorite subject remains his native New England where he resides. He was employed at New England Memorial Hospital (later Boston Regional Medical Center) in Stoneham, Massa- chusetts, for 35 years.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
for now.
I was busy migrating my links to the new service.
ALL 302 links…. manually… each one…
Good news, it's all done.
so updates on weekend?
some titles have their covers updated. I won't tell which so it would be a surprise for those who enjoys reading them.
Hmm… i did update one title… forgot which.
blargh. It's midnight at my place.
Matutulog na ko.
Bukas na naman, pipol!


text:
The University of Glasgow recognises that in order for our students to meet their full potential and to enjoy their experience of studying here, we must ensure that we are not only supporting them academically, but also helping students successfully navigate the challenges they face along the way.
Below are some useful links to internal and external sources of information about looking after your wellbeing or supporting your students to do so.
Emergency and Crisis Support
- Life-threatening emergencs - call 999 (Ambulance Service, Police, Fire Brigade, Coast Guard)
- Campus Security - call x4444 (main Campus); x2222 (Garscube)
- Student services at Crichton
- Campus Life on Crichton Campus
- Counselling and Psychological Services - For one-to-one support and a wealth of online resources.
- Helping Distressed Students - A Guide for University Staff.
What Supervisors Can Do To Support Their Students
This short film was developed as a resource for supervisors when thinking about how to support Postgraduate Research Students.
For Supervisors: Raising the Issue with Candidates (University of Tasmania)
Wellbeing Initiatives for PGRs
- PGR Blog - for PGR students by PGR students
- PGR Walking Group - every Tuesday, 12:30pm meeting at The Gilchrist
- PGR Gardening - every Thursday 1pm, Gilmorehill Campus - Click here for information and to sign up!
- MyGlasgow Students - Health and Wellbeing
- Researcher Development Courses - see MyCampus. Browse for course codes starting with RSDA, RSDB, RSDC and RSDD.
- PGR Experience Event Report - 24 August 2017
World Mental Health Day 10 October 2019
World Mental Health Day is marked every year on 10 October but to kick off the week the University is releasing the attached video, featuring the wonderful Susan Calman, Thomas McFerran (SRC) and Selina Woolcott (Health Safety & Wellbeing).
The key messages are:
- No one should suffer from mental ill health in silence;
- Help is available;
- Everyone should be aware of where to find help.
- Watch the video;
- Familiarise yourself with the names of Mental Health First Aiders in your area;
- check out the Big White Wall online;
- watch out for the online training package which we are putting together at the moment and which will be launched later this term.
The Students' Representative Council has organised a series of events for 10 October. These include:
- MYM (Mind Your Mate) 2 sessions: 10am & 5pm in the Williams room, McIntyre building;
- Calligraphy as Meditation: 3pm in the Williams Room, McIntyre building;
- Let's talk about sexual violence (2 sessions): 11am & 5pm in The Gilchrist.
Wellbeing Workshops 2019/20
Usually, no booking is necessary and your attendance is not registered on your student record. However, if you wish to confirm that a session is taking place, or to receive emails in the event that a session is moved or cancelled, please email email@example.com, listing the session(s) that you will be attending. All emails are treated as strictly confidential and will be deleted after the workshops have taken place.
PhD and Sleep - Dates and Location: TBC
New city, new routine, thesis-writing, job-hunting, anxiety... There are lots of reasons why, as a research student, you might be experiencing difficulties with either getting to sleep or staying asleep. In this session, participants will learn about the science behind sleep, as well as practical strategies for overcoming common problems.
A sleep diary is circulated to participants at least a week before the session. People who wish to attend should email email@example.com to request the pre-course materials.
If you are unable to attend but are interested in the topic, you might find these resources useful: C. A. Espie, Overcoming Insomnia and Sleep Problems: A Self-help Guide (London, 2010). This is a book with lots of practical tips, available in the University library. The author is an Honorary Research Fellow at the University and a leading sleep researcher at Oxford.
And this is a free resource, based on the same research: https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/publications/how-sleep-better
Sitting at a Desk – A Pain in the Neck
This workshop explains the origins of the most common neck and shoulder pain associated with working at a desk or with a computer. We explore ways to improve seated posture to minimise pain and end with exercises and stretches to maintain this.
Dates and Location:
30th October 2019 - 11 Professors' Square
16th April 2020 - 11 Professors' Square
Because of the limited space on this course, people who wish to attend should email firstname.lastname@example.com to confirm that a place is available.
Managing Stress - Dates and Location: TBC
No need to book – please just turn up!
Overcoming Perfectionism - Dates and Location: TBC
The best can be the enemy of the good: come along to this session for tips on how to overcome perfectionism.
No need to book – please just turn up!
Other Wellbeing resources
If you are unable to attend our workshops but are interested in these or related topics, you might find the materials and information listed here useful:
For our training courses and the researcher development programme: www.gla.ac.uk/researcherdevelopment
Resilience in Research Guide (this link takes you to an external site): Booklet Link (University of Dundee)
Social Events and Physical Activities
PGR Gardening - Thursdays 1pm
Fancy growing your own fruit or veg., or just making a small corner of Glasgow your very own peaceful pastoral haven? If you are interested in getting involved with PGR gardening, please just follow this link to sign up.
PGR Walk - Wednesdays 12.30pm-1pm
Led by members of the PG researcher development team, PGR walks normally take place every Wednesday lunchtime (unless cancelled by the weather). We meet outside by the entrance to the Gilchrist Cafe at 12.30pm to take an easy walk around the West End of Glasgow (usually lasting 45 minutes). The walks are an excellent opportunity to get up from your desk and meet fellow researchers for a chat and gentle exercise.
Keeping in Touch
To keep up-to-date with news and events, including our Crafternoon and Bake-off competitions, please keep on eye on the PGR Blog, Twitter, or Instagram.
If you spend a lot of time away from campus, please join our distance PGR Yammer community. This is a news and discussion group specifically for those who work or live at a distance: go to www.yammer.com and log in using your university credentials, then search for the distance PGR group.


text:
IT HAS been a productive year of professionally planned progress for Aitor Karanka's Boro.
They have improved in every department, the club is more coherent on and off the pitch and the table looks healthy and full of possibility. There is a sense of focus, purpose and vision about the club "from the chairman to the tea lady".
There is a relentless, upbeat energy about the team, a positive spirit that bubbles through the entire squad and a swagger on the pitch. And that air of confidence and optimism has spilled over into the crowd with rejuvenated supporters gradually turning up the volume and the numbers by the week. What a difference a year makes.


text:
Healthgenie Pepper Spray, upto 10 feet range, 35 gms of dispensable pepper spray (Pack of 2)
₹998 Saving: 63%
- Size: 35 gm (Pack of 2); Effective upto 10 feet
- Carry in Bag/Purse ; Instant Inflammation in Eyes
- Comes with a uniquely designed Thumb-cut dome that guides you even in the dark for instant use. Spray nozzle always point towards attacker's face.
- Healthgenie pepper spray's dimension are 35mm diameter and 110mm respectively
- Tested and certified from government lab and and legal to use under threatening circumstances.
Lowest Price: ₹ 328 on flipkart.com. Updated: September 16, 2020 7:08 pm
Healthgenie Pepper Spray
Pepper spray is a self defense spray to guard oneself at times of atrocities and attacks. It comprises of oleoresin Capsicum and extracts from extremely hot red chillies. Healthgenie pepper spray on direct contact with eyes leads to immense burning and excruciating pain to eyes and further causes unbearable sneezing and coughing. Easy to use as you just nee to hold it at arm's length – minimum distance 4 feet. Aim on attacker's face and run away. The effect is immediate and stays for about 30-45 minutes. A must have for all ladies in these times. Easy to carry and affordable.
* It contains oleoresin capsicum ,an extract from extremely hot chillies,upon spraying it burns the eyes, nose throat and even causes other related respiratory illness.
* Keep away from the reach of children.
* Incase of direct exposure rinse off immediately with fresh running water and soap and expose to fresh air.
* Use no cream or ointments on the affected areas in order to avoid further pain or aggravating the injury.
The use of pepper spray is advisable only under self defence circumstances. It is legally permissible under IPC sections 96,97,102,105 and 106.
|Product Type
|Multi Pack
|Usage Type
|Ideal For
|Good For
3 reviews for Healthgenie Pepper Spray, upto 10 feet range, 35 gms of dispensable pepper spray (Pack of 2)
Add a review
Get this product. Best self defence you can carry without any issue. Great product.
Very much effective product. A must buy for women travelling in alone areas as well as it is always good to keep this for women
Very effective product because i was press the nozzle very gently it spray's very lightly suddenly it creates cough and form some irritating layers in my nose for 5min. Its very very effective and also keep it away from children.


text:
Out-Law Guide | 05 Aug 2011 | 4:05 pm | 10 min. read
There are two main types of privilege:
There are practical steps that companies can take to maximise the protection of confidential, legal communications by privilege as set out in the laws of England and Wales.
Who is the lawyer?
Privilege applies to advice given by external lawyers and also by in-house lawyers, provided that they act in their capacity as lawyer and not in an executive or compliance capacity and are qualified to practise under the rules of the regulator, which in England and Wales means the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) or the Bar Council. For solicitors this means holding a current practising certificate.
Privilege extends to employees such as legal executives, trainee solicitors and paralegals provided that they are supervised by qualified lawyers.
Privilege will also extend to the advice given by foreign lawyers based abroad, provided that they are qualified to practise under their own regulatory body, and to foreign lawyers based in England & Wales qualified to practise under the SRA. Similar rules apply to foreign lawyers based in other jurisdictions in the UK.
There is an important exception: in the context of EU Commission competition investigations, and potentially certain other types of EU proceedings, only communications involving external, not in-house, lawyers entitled to practise in an EU or EEA member state can attract privilege.
Privilege does not apply to other professionals, such as accountants, who give legal advice.
Who is the client?
For legal advice privilege to apply it is important to establish who the client is. The current law is that the client will only include those individuals specifically tasked with seeking and obtaining legal advice either from in-house or external lawyers. The definition of the client does not extend to everyone within the organisation or even the whole department or division seeking legal advice. Note that communications between a lawyer and employees outside the designated client team or between the client team and employees outside the team will generally not be privileged, and sending privileged documents outside this team can result in privilege being lost.
It should also be noted that communications within the client team may not be privileged if they are not for the purpose of seeking and receiving legal advice. For example, communications between the client team commenting on the merits of a particular matter may not be privileged.
What is covered?
Legal advice privilege is not confined to advice on the law, but also covers 'advice as to what should prudently and sensibly be done in the relevant legal context.' This will cover presentational, commercial or strategic advice, provided that it relates to a client's legal rights, liabilities, obligations and remedies. It will not apply to advice of a purely strategic or commercial nature which is not provided in a 'relevant legal context'. Equally, it will not apply to the "fruits" of the legal advice, for example any agreement or conveyance drawn up. Lawyers' working papers are privileged if, and only if, they would betray the tenor of, or give a clue as to, the legal advice.
Instructions or requests to lawyers seeking legal advice are also covered, as may be other communications in the chain of correspondence between client and lawyer for the purpose of obtaining that advice. However, 'raw materials' such as factual summaries or draft letters which are not produced for the dominant purpose of seeking legal advice will not be covered, even if they are subsequently passed to lawyers for advice.
A recent court ruling indicates that the giving or seeking of legal advice must be the dominant purpose, not just a purpose, of a communication in order for it to attract legal advice privilege. This is a particular issue for in-house lawyers, who may have a dual role within the business in that they perform both legal and commercial functions, or may be amongst the recipients of a communication which has both legal and commercial aspects. If the dominant purpose of a communication is to obtain commercial input rather than legal advice, even if legal advice is also being sought, it may not be privileged.
What does 'litigation' mean?
Litigation has to refer to adversarial proceedings meaning it will exclude, for example, internal grievance and disciplinary proceedings. It also excludes purely fact-finding inquiries and investigations.
Litigation has to be actual or 'reasonably in prospect', meaning it is more than a mere possibility. It is not sufficient that there is a distinct possibility that sooner or later someone might make a claim, nor is a general apprehension of future litigation enough.
The documents must be created for the dominant purpose of obtaining information or advice in connection with the conduct of existing or reasonably contemplated litigation. Documents which fall outside this, for example internal board discussions of a purely strategic nature which do not contain such information or advice or reveal the tenor of it, will not be covered by litigation privilege.
Often documents are created for more than one purpose. For example, a company may commission an investigatory report looking into the cause of an accident or how a fraud occurred, with a view to improving procedures and avoiding any repeat, but at the same time anticipating that litigation will be likely and that such a report is necessary for this purpose too. However, if the report is not prepared for the dominant purpose of litigation, litigation privilege will not apply.
The law regarding the privileged status of documentation produced as part of internal investigations has been the subject of intense debate in light of recent case law in which assertions of privilege over documents generated in the course of such investigations have been subjected to considerable scrutiny. The application of privilege in this area is likely to be highly fact-specific; courts will look closely at the evidence to consider, for example, whether litigation really was reasonably in prospect at the time of the investigation and whether this was the dominant purpose of the investigation.
The courts should take a realistic, commercial view of the facts of each case. For example, it appears to be recognised that documents may be created for multiple purposes, but that where it is clear that the dominant or overarching purpose was their use in litigation, privilege should apply. The highly fact-specific nature of a claim for litigation privilege in the context of internal investigations, however, makes the outcome of any such claim difficult to predict. Consequently, it is vital that specialist legal advice is sought before any investigation is undertaken if the chances of successfully securing litigation privilege are to be maximised.
Privilege cannot be attached retrospectively. Failure to consider it from day one may mean a claim of privilege cannot be successfully sustained against hostile third parties, including regulators, and the relevant documentation required to be handed over. The following steps help maximise the chances that privilege will apply.
Before seeking and receiving legal advice from internal or external lawyers or, if an in-house lawyer, when receiving requests for advice, establish who the 'client' is, for example:
Define and document who 'the client' is, preferably in the engagement letter if external solicitors are instructed, and in internal protocols. The list can be revised as the matter progresses.
Only 'the client' should deal with lawyers, whether in-house or external. This includes preparing briefing notes, letters of instruction, meeting agendas or minutes for the purposes of seeking and obtaining legal advice; employees who are not part of 'the client' should not take on this task. Make it clear to other employees that they should not create documents containing information relevant to the seeking of legal advice, or report to the client on the subject in question, without express clearance from the client. If written communications do have to be produced by non-client employees for the purposes of seeking legal advice, ensure that this purpose is recorded and that the content is kept factual.
Ensure that any advice sought or given on presentational, strategic or commercial issues is given in the context of the client's legal rights and obligations and not as stand-alone advice.
If an internal investigation or review into an incident, issue or allegation is needed, instruct lawyers to commission this and report for the dominant purpose of anticipated litigation and on the basis that legal advice is needed, giving detail on the anticipated litigation. The report should principally look at the causes of the incident and any possible exposures as a result and then, as subsidiary issues, consider any other matters such as improvements for the future.
If an investigation is carried out with a view to proceedings which are not already afoot, always record the dominant purpose of the investigation and any document produced in the course of it, assuming it is the conduct of those proceedings. This can be done by specifying the proposed claimants or defendants to the anticipated litigation and the expected issues in that litigation; this should be in terms which you would be willing to deploy in support of a claim to privilege.


text:
Welcome to July already! This is the month where my family's summer really kicks into gear, so I'm going to be taking it easy here on Mel's Desk and will be scheduling some best-of lists for a few weeks. I can't say that tagging and organizing posts has been my strong point as a blogger 🙂 so I'm hoping these highlight posts will point you to some stuff you haven't come across yet!
To start things off I have a list of posts with original printable patterns:
Two Little Blackbirds / Two Little Black Bats


text:
< Seeking Luna | Sol Invictus Logs | Dueling Rovash >
Summary: Rovash arrives, then the Mask of Winters, then Herons.
XP:P4, C5, M4, Z4Tags:
Astride what appears to be a large grizzly bear made entirely of seawater, Rovash the Infinite waits patiently, outside the gates of the Labyrinthine Cascade.
- Birds-of-Trinity comes to the gate, patting her hair. It is sculpted into a neat ziggurat today, and a mirror sits atop it like the eye of a little god, four-cornered.
<BirdsOfTrinity?> "Rovash! Welcome to the Labyrinthine Cascade. I trust that your trip was pleasant and exciting?"
<Rovash?> "Greetings, my darling! You look dazzling enough to slay thirty-six men. Yes, I have had a delightful journey."
- Markuran follows behind Birds, looking annoyed. Despite his irritating with allowing the Wyld one here, the big barbarian cleaned himself rather well. His hair is cut neatly, his new beard trimmed, the Bear Armor fleshly polished. In the interests of appearing peaceful, Markuran removed much of the armor, wearing only the breastplate. A long-sleeved tunic covers the scars and muscles of his arms and a heavy spider-fur cloak finishes his fae-welcoming outfit.
- Rovash nods to Markuran. "You, too, are looking splendid today." He gestures at Markuran with seven of his arms.
- Zahara is not there to greet Rovash, instead she is meditating on the dances of the Gilmeyne, and her newly reborn memories of her childhood. She lounges, seemingly at ease in a great pile of crimson pillows, her gauzy deep red dress seems to float around her form.
<Rovash?> "Shall you lead on? I am eager to begin!"
<BirdsOfTrinity?> "That is my plan."
<Rovash?> "Let us do so!" Twelve arms point skyward, enthusiastically.
<BirdsOfTrinity?> "Please, come this way. It is a long walk; perhaps you will tell me of your most recent adventure along the way?"
<Markuran?> "You have more arms then you did last time."
- Cerin is clad in the same well tailored pale grey clothing he wore to heaven, the thin gold edges glinting in the sunlight as he stands atop the manse, observing the arival of the fey and his mount.
<Rovash?> "Ah, yes. One can never have too many arms, you know." Turning to Birds and beginning to walk, he continues. "Since last we spoke, I have been beyond the boundaries of the world, seeking fortune and glory!"
<BirdsOfTrinity?> "Ah, glory. The most delicious of the dramatic achievements."
- Zahara occasionally twists her new ring back and forth on her finger, the only outward sign of her agitation. Welcoming the fae into any aspect of her life other than the business end of a weapon was not on her to-do list for the next century or five. Her thoughts turn, then, to the chamber she prepared for Rovash. Made of White Jade and enchanted in a similar fashion to her Wyld-destroying charm, it is square, and completely empty.
<Markuran?> "Did you find fortune and glory beyond the world, Rovash?"
- Markuran glances at the polypoid with dark eyes full of suspicion. A muscular twitch in Marku's arm gives away his unease with the situation, despite his dress.
- Cerin steps down from his perch atop the manse, working his way through the passageways to find Zahara, greeting her with a small kiss "He's arrived."
- Birds-of-Trinity walks toward the Manse.
<Rovash?> "Indeed!" Rovash says, and draws forth a blade to match his bear. "When I ripped Love's Seventh Ocean from the heart of those without name, ten thousand bards simultaneously began to tell my story."
- Zahara rises fluidly, her eyes dark. "He has." she says softly. "I am *so* looking forward to meeting him again" she adds drily.
The party arrives at the gates of the manse.
- Markuran nods, suitably impressed by this bizare story. With a surreptitious eye, Marku compares the Fair Lord's muscularture to his own, trying to decide which of them is stronger.
- Birds-of-Trinity pauses for a moment, then opens the door and leads the others inside.
<BirdsOfTrinity?> "That would explain what happened..."
Markuran notes that while clearly well muscled, Rovash has a lean build; it is unlikely he could directly outlift Marku in a contest.
- Zahara nods to the Gilmeyne behind her, and it shifts into a new dance that she had taught it, although the demon had improved upon her motions a thousandfold. The dance is the story of a little girl with a stick.
- Markuran nods slightly to himself. "When do you expect your lover to arrive?"
<Rovash?> "When I go to the appointed place, she will come. I am sure of this."
The party begins to near the room prepared by Zahara; she and Cerin can hear the chatter and the footsteps as they approach.
- Zahara stands before the door, awaiting them calmly. "This should be interesting, in many ways." she notes.
- Cerin listens to the conversation, ignoring the dance of the gilmyne, taking Zahara's hand. He nods "Very."
- Rovash walks up to the door and stops, looking in and smiling. "The beautiful Zahara Zahn. I thank you for the generous hospitality you have shown in allowing me to come here."
- Zahara nods minutely in acceptance, "Indeed." Her lips form a thin line as she inspects the creature. "And I must thank you for your willingness to submit to our studies."
- Rovash gestures with four hands. "It is nothing to one such as I."
He walks into the room, looking at every surface with interest. "What would you have me do first?"
- Markuran gives Zahara a firm "be good" glower as he takes half a second away from his intense scrutiny of the Fair Folk in their midst
<Zahara?> "What IS one such as you?" she asks mildly, following him in. The room glows translucently, lit from all six sides. There are repeated patterns minutely inscribed into the jade, each reinforcing the one before it, each imposing more order upon the structure. "First, I would have you stand still." she says, ignoring Markuran's look.
- Rovash begins to idly juggle small colored balls with several hands.
Hearing Zahara's command, his hands cease their movement, and fold at his sides.
- Zahara nods to Cerin, who she assumes is bearing an empty book entitled "The Fair Folk"
- Cerin steps in behind him, his eyes already watching the strnage ways the flows twist and mix with the energy of creation. He starts to draw.
<Rovash?> "I am a being from beyond the world, born to the purest chaos." He continues to stand still. "I forged for myself a Heart, that I might learn of the world, for it beckoned me so, even in my non-existent state."
<Zahara?> "Yet when you took that form, you also took upon yourself the frailty of Creation."
- Rovash has a great urge to send three or more hands to his forehead, but resists! "Alas, it is true. The sacrifices we must make for love!"
<Cerin?> "What is this heart of yours?" Cerin asks as he sketches the dynamics of the flows, the flows themselves altering far too rapidly to be drawn.
- Rovash addresses Zahara. "May I show him?"
- Zahara looks to Cerin to see if he is ready, and if so, gives her assent
- Cerin spends a few minutes finishing the dynamical sketch, then nods.
- Zahara holds up her hand
<Zahara?> "I believe we should do this first part outside of this room, actually."
<Zahara?> "The second will be within, but I do not wish for you to.. tire, too quickly."
- Rovash reaches two hands into his cloak, and draws out an object -- a great goblet, made entirely of water. Within it swirls a liquid that can only be described as liquid ruby, complete with ever-shifting facets; within it, a miniature image of Rovash dances.
- Zahara leads them all into the regular ol' dungeon.
- Cerin immediately notices that the Essence which flows through the cup seems to be simultaneously flowing within Rovash's body.
- Cerin blinks.
- Rovash slips his Heart back into his cloak.
<Rovash?> "Do you find that interesting?"
- Cerin takes down several notes "That was most curious...That cup is you? and you are the cup, as far as the essence of the world is concerned."
- Rovash nods. "I speak truth when I say that it is my heart."
<Cerin?> "I did not realise how truely you spoke. Until I saw."
<Markuran?> "Which came first, the goblet or you?"
- Rovash blinks. "There is no such thing. I came into being at the moment that I crafted this cup into existence. The two are indivisible."
<Markuran?> "How did you make it if making it made you?"
<Rovash?> "That is an excellent question!" That said, he turns his attention to Cerin. "What would you have me do next?"
<Cerin?> "You said you took on the ..fraility of creation when you entered it. Can you take that off while you are here?"
<Rovash> "By the eight heavens, no! I would dissolve into nothingness."
- Birds-of-Trinity hrms.
<BirdsOfTrinity?> "Can you...take on a /different kind/ of frailty?"
<Zahara?> "What happens when you are separated from your Heart? Do you need to be in contact with it?"
<Rovash?> "Oh, certainly! I have worn more bodies than I have fingers! Today I come to you clad in Creation's finest water, tinged with the Essence of jealousy." He turns to Zahara. "Without certain measures, I cannot be; a mere thought calls it to my hand. If it were to be stolen from me... it would be as if my very self were taken away, given to the control of another."
- Zahara seems quite taken by that idea
<Markuran?> "After Zahara and Cerin are finished prodding you in various embarssing places, would you offer me a favor, Rovash?"
- Rovash nods to Markuran. "What can I do for you?"
<Markuran?> "I was simply hoping for a contest of skill and strength. I haven't matched arms against one of the Fair Folk. Though at the moment, you would win a simple contest of arms."
- Rovash chuckles uproariously.
<Rovash?> "Ha! For that alone, I shall grant your request."
- Cerin ponders. "Can you channel any essence beyond that which is filling this form of yours?"
- Rovash waves a hand in the air and conjures up a crystalline rose, which he presents to Birds-of-Trinity.
- Birds-of-Trinity sniffs the flower absently.
- Zahara watches, her eyes following his every move. "I would see more of your magics."
- Cerin watches the flows of essence wrap around and in on themselves to make the rose, watching it crystallize into the rose. "Beautiful."
- Rovash puts five hands to his chin in a thinking gesture. "What to do, what to do....?"
<Zahara?> "Start small, and work up to the more impressive ones." she suggests
- Rovash impresses Cerin with a variety of glamorous tricks -- conjuring beasts from a glass of water, shifting his appearance in numerous ways, and so on.
- Cerin watches all with varying degrees of interest and quiet amazement.
<Rovash> "These, humble though they be, are my abilities."
<Zahara?> "Excellent. Now we shall do all of that again, but inside the White Room."
<Rovash> "Indeed! Lead on."
- Zahara leads them back to The White Room, and seals them all inside, assuming they follow. The door disappears into the patterns in the walls.
- Markuran peers at the door-space idly.
- Zahara lofts a brow at him, "Yes?"
<Rovash?> "An astonishing transformation."
- Cerin is watching carefully for the interaction of the order of the room with the carefully bound chaos of the fey.
- Zahara smiles slightly. "Please, repeat the magics you showed us in the other room, if you can."
- Rovash begins to repeat his conjurations, frowning and twitching with his fingers as the field of order locks out his gossamer effects.
<Rovash?> "I am finding myself... ineffective."
- Zahara watches Rovash with an amused glint in her eyes, smoothing the fabric of her dress with the fingers of one hand, "So it would seem," she says slowly, "Keep trying until you have attempted all of the forms."
- Rovash continues his attempts. Some he achieves with some difficulty, while others are completely impossible within the room's confines.
- Cerin watches these attempts with interest. "Could I see your Heart again?"
- Zahara takes note of those that actually occur mentally, and
- Rovash draws the goblet out once more.
- Cerin checks to see that once more the flows still match.
Still, the flows of Rovash and his Heart are one and the same.
<Cerin?> "I would what would happen if the Heart were in here, you were outside.." Cerin muses.
- Zahara mentally takes note of those that actually occur, and begins to toy with her ring again. Inside she is as gleeful as a child with a new toy, but her exterior is calm and instructive. "Those magics that you were able to do, what other permutations do they have? For instance, if another Fae would shape them differently?"
<Rovash?> "More than I could count for you. You will find us an idiosyncratic kind, should you meet many of us."
<Zahara?> "I have met your kind before, albeit briefly."
- Rovash nods.
<Zahara?> "And if you were to be challenged, how would you defend yourself? You have shown us your pretty toys already."
<Rovash?> "By one of your kind? I would fight, as a man would do. Against my own, I have other methods."
<Markuran?> "That would be easier answered simply by watching our contest, Zahara."
<Zahara?> "Show me what you would do against one of your own, and I will, of course, watch your contest with Markuran when it occurs."
<Rovash?> "Hmmm. May we step from this room?"
<Zahara?> "Can you do none of them here?"
<Rovash?> "When I contest with my own, I do so entirely in the realm of glamour. Such effects will prove useless here."
- Zahara traces one of the patterns in the door-wall backwards, and the catch releases, door sliding back and into the wall, which becomes less translucent. She gestures for him to precede her.
- Rovash steps out into the hall.
- Markuran follows Zahara out, giving her a warning glare to be nice!
Once free of the pattern field, Rovash relaxes.
- Cerin follows Zahara out, eager to watch this glamoured contest.
- Zahara once again ingores Markuran's glares. She has been EXCEEDINGLY nice so far, so he can just stuff it up his hairy ass, she thinks to herself.
<Rovash?> "Were I to contest with another, I might strike at them with the glamorous shape of any problem I could devise. To cause a lover to turn against them, for instance."
Cerin, for one brief moment, feels certain that Zahara has lied to him; but it passes.
<Zahara?> "Could you do so to a human, or only to your kind?"
<Rovash?> "Such things are ephemeral to your kind; they have no true reality here. I can give a glimpse of them, but they have no true effect upon you."
- Cerin tenses slightly giving Zahara a slightly hurt look, before refocusing his attention back on Rovash.
<Rovash?> "That, I believe, is more or less the limit of my abilities. Beyond that, I simply wander, and perform, and quest evermore for glory."
- Zahara looks at Cerin inquiringly for the moment, before realizing that it was most likely Rovash's fault. "What gives you glory, then? To trick and decieve others, or to feed upon the hearts of children?"
- Rovash appears taken aback.
<Rovash?> "No!" He resumes a calmer demeanor. "I find the uncontrolled feasting of my fellows... uncouth."
<Rovash?> "No, I gain glory as your kind do -- through great deeds, the awe of the people, the tales of storytellers, the winning of great treasures...."
<Zahara?> "You prefer the more controlled kind, then? Say the slave trade with the Guild, which delivers your food to you on a silver platter?"
- Rovash looks distressed. "I have never partaken of such."
- Cerin focuses back on the fae. If Zahara wants to keep the truth from him, thats her perogative. But... No. Rovash. He focuses more on fae, letting himself study the patterns more deeply, letting his eyes follow the fractal swirls of chaos...
<Zahara?> "Then who do you steal the will to live from? Do you seduce them with your tricks, and crystal roses? Do you promise them dreams of sweet happiness, or glory, or their heart's desire?"
- Markuran peers curiously at Rovosh, awaiting the reply. A fair folk that claims not to devour minds, dreams and souls? A liar or an aberrant..
<Rovash?> "I have subsided on the flowing adulation of the crowd for a thousand years, Zahara. In an epileptic fit when I first journeyed to Creation, I swore to a lover that I would taste not of a human's soul unless freely proffered, without beguilements; and I have kept to that vow."
<Zahara?> "And your lover, whom you await so eagerly?"
<Markuran?> "Can you teach your arts to those like us?"
<Rovash?> "She is... unlike me."
<Rovash?> "It is to Injara that I swore this oath."
<Rovash?> "A woman, great and terrible. She ruled this land when first I came to Creation, and I -- I, the master of beguilements -- was myself smitten the moment I saw her. She drove me to swear against my own nature to be at her side, and I did so gladly." He looks down at his many hands.
<Rovash?> "She perished from this world, many years ago, and I went mad with grief."
<Zahara?> "How did she perish?"
<Markuran?> "And if she perished, why do you seek her now? Perishment is rather final, for most people."
<Rovash?> "Slain, by her advisors, partners, friends. Betrayed."
- Rovash looks up. "May I call to her now? I swear unto you that she will cause no harm to you, or any that you protect; and then you shall see for yourself."
<Markuran?> "What else do you need from him, Zahara? He has done as you asked."
- Zahara pulls herself up haughtily and looks at Marku coldly. "I am not finished."
- Zahara frowns, "although this next part will be more difficult than I had anticipated, due to his vow."
- Markuran narrows his eyes at Zahara. "Why would his vow interfere with anything you would want him to do, Zahara?" the big man's voice rumbles coldly, an avalance of ice
- Zahara turns to regard him fully, "I must study ALL aspects of the Fae. Even the distasteful ones."
- Cerin raises himself from his studies of the flows and twists "That might be interesting, yes."
<Markuran?> "Then you are willing to make sacrifices of course. And would permit him some of your own dreams."
- Zahara is about to respond angrily, having prepared herself for Markuran's ire, then pauses, "Perhaps. If you would like to see what I would turn into." she says, softly. "It would not be the first time."
<Cerin?> "There is no need for you to do that Zahara. He can feed on me. It will be most interesting to watch that way."
<Zahara?> "I doubt you would be able to see properly, nor pay full attention."
<BirdsOfTrinity?> "Hold on."
- Markuran looks to Rovash, opening his mouth to repeat an earlier question. Then Birds interrupts.
<BirdsOfTrinity?> "Cerin, you are the one with perceptions. We need your eyes."
- Rovash turns to look curiously at Birds.
<BirdsOfTrinity?> "Zahara, you are the sorceress! It is, ultimately, for your edification that we are performing these studies."
<BirdsOfTrinity?> "This is correct?"
<Zahara?> "This is correct, indeed."
<BirdsOfTrinity?> "And, Rovash, I understand that one who is not drunk from too deeply will recover. Is this also correct?"
- Rovash nods. "The experience will be... jarring. But it can be done without permanent repercussions."
<Zahara?> "What aspect is it that you feed upon?"
<BirdsOfTrinity?> "You may feed from me. I wish to experience this depletion."
- Markuran holds up a hand between Birds and Rovash. "My own moment, if you please. I was thinking that Rovash and I might make a wager on our contest. If he wins, he can drink of my dreams. And if I win, he will do me some favor of like value. To make Zahara happy, even if I win, Birds wishes to let Rovash drink of her."
- Cerin shrugs inwardly. Watching two lots of dreams be eaten would be interesting. very interesting.
<Zahara?> "Did you ever think to have all of us vying for your attentions, Rovash? Certainly this will make it into your tales of glory."
- Rovash smiles. "Indeed, I can hear the tale of the deft rogue who led four Lords of Creation to offer themselves willingly to him already beginning to form on the tongues of the musicians."
<Rovash?> "For today, I shall turn to Birds. And I shall give Markuran a fortnight to think over his offer again; and should he stand by it, we shall duel."
<Markuran?> "Zahara diverted you from my question when I asked it first. Can you teach me your magics, Rovash?"
<Rovash?> "I could craft for you a talisman that contained a work of glamour; I doubt any but Zahara could come closer than that."
- Markuran considers. "I will stand by my offer."
<Zahara?> "As well as you could learn the magics of the Dynasts, Markuran. I, however, would be interested in learning a useful.. glamour, such as you call it."
<Markuran?> "You are not going to be dueling him for the favor, Zahara."
- Rovash nods. "Now, I must make my demonstration." Eight hands beckon Birds-of-Trinity to come closer.
- Birds-of-Trinity wanders over, bemused.
<Zahara?> "No, I am granting him his long lost love."
- Markuran makes a sarcastic sounding grunt deep in his chest
- Cerin studies the fae and Birds. "Birds, would you flare your anima just briefly. I would like to observe Rovash in sunlight.."
- Rovash holds Birds-of-Trinity in twelve of his arms. He whispers, "Do not be afraid, beautiful one." Then he lays one hand on Birds' forehead and closes his eyes.
- Birds-of-Trinity nods to Cerin and does so.
- Zahara watches Rovash and Birds dispassionately, although some part of her grumbles and roils to allow such a thing on one she calls friend. This is quite easily squashed, however.
- Cerin watches the play of sunlight over the fae, marking its reactions as he does, before settling to watch the feeding.
Birds remembers a peaceful day: the warm sunlight, the cool mug of nectar, the tousled hair of a boy from the next village, the song of a washer woman on the breeze. And then, it is gone.
Cerin sees the tiniest part of Birds' soul begin to twitch and unweave, and a single mote of Essence flows from within into the deep, endless maw he can suddenly perceive within Rovash's form.
Then, a moment later, Rovash opens his eyes once again.
<Rovash?> "There, I have done it."
- Cerin lets out a small sigh. "That was ...unusual."
- Zahara eyes Birds, "Did it hurt?"
- Birds-of-Trinity looks around. "Was that all?"
<Rovash?> "Indeed it was. I took only the slightest drop."
<BirdsOfTrinity?> "No...eldritch maw of teeth that cannot be counted?"
<Rovash?> "....only were I to consume you utterly, my dear."
<Zahara?> "Can you manifest such without actually consuming someone?"
<Rovash> "A vision of it, yes."
<Zahara?> "Please." she gestures.
- Rovash waves a hand and a terrible blackness washes over Zahara, punctuated only by the glimmering and gnashing of an infinitude of teeth. It lasts only a moment, and then is gone.
- Cerin watches the moment from outside. what did he do?
- Zahara jumps, then steels herself, nearly biting her tongue as the blackness touches her.
<Zahara?> "That was..sufficient. Thank you."
- Rovash folds six pairs of hands across themselves and bows lightly.
<Cerin?> "Zahara..are you alright?" he is instantly at her side
<Zahara?> "I am quite fine, it was only an illusion." The voice inside her head adds 'this time' as she smiles tightly.
- Markuran nods to himself. "I still stand by my offer, Rovash. When do you wish our contest?"
<Rovash?> "Hmmm. A week from now, as the sun sets upon the forest. That should be suitable."
- Cerin nods and kisses her cheek
<Markuran?> "Since you are the challenged, you may decide the location."
<Rovash?> "We shall duel in a nearby glade, where a stream is riven in two by a rock shaped as a vicious knife."
- Markuran nods. "In a week, then. Zahara, are you done now?"
<Zahara?> "For now, but no, I am not completely finished."
- Rovash looks somewhat crestfallen. "I understand. I shall return here in a week, then."
- Markuran offers the Fae an arm to seal their bargain, giving him a somewhat understanding look at Zahara's cruelty.
- Rovash offers five arms in response.
- Markuran clasps them one at a time.
- Cerin eyes widen slightly at the amount of essence marku just spent. To make the fae like him. How curious.
- Rovash turns to leave. "Thank you for your hospitality, Sun-touched. I look forward to our duel, Markuran, may they sing songs of it for ages to come."
- Rovash walks away for a moment, turns to blow a kiss to Birds, and then departs. He is passed by a barbarian running in the opposite direction, apparently with news.
- Zahara watches Rovash depart thoughtfully, noting the direction in which he retires.
- Barbarian arrives, out of breath, at Solars' location. "A litter... of darkest ebon, borne by men clad in black robes... has arrived... asked to meet with you..."
<Markuran?> "Find the Terrestrial spies and have them meet us outside. We'll be there shortly." Marku takes off at a trot, heading for his own rooms to gather the rest of his armor and weapons.
- Barbarian runs off to alert the ninjas.
- Cerin flows off to get his own armour on before returning to Zahara's side.
- Zahara summons her armory, which floats above her obediently.
- Markuran arrives outside the Cascade, glowering and shining in the dying light of the Sun. Armsbreaker gleams against the tanned skin of his forearm, waiting to be used
- Zahara then wends her way through the Labyrinth to the customary receiving area, which still happens to be trapped from the last visit they expected
- Cerin follows at Zahara's side as they are lead to the dark litter. As they get closer, Cerin observes the litter and the bearers with interest, noting both essence and the more physical nature.
Beyond the walls of the manse sits the black litter -- a large, elaborate affair, carved entirely of jet black wood and hung with dark curtains. Four... people, clad entirely in black robes, carry it aloft, seeming not to tire or strain at doing so. Cerin notices a familiarly brilliant display of Essence within.
<Cerin?> "The Mask of Winters." Cerin speaks softly.
- Markuran glowers darkly under thick eyebrows. "What do you want, Deathlord?" the bass rumble of the big Zenith's voice easily reaches the litter
- Zahara crosses her arms over her chest, and regards him with a look of polite interest, "Yes, do tell us what brings you to our doors, Mask of Winters." she says pleasantly.
MaskOfWinters "I have important matters to speak of with you," says the familiar voice from within the litter.
<BirdsOfTrinity?> "Oh, speaking. How nice."
- Birds-of-Trinity adjusts her mirror.
- Cerin takes advantage of the charm he has gained since last he saw him to study the mask of winters more closely.
As Cerin studies the Essence of Mask of Winters, for the first time, with clear eyes, he begins to notice its odd construction...
MaskOfWinters "It has come to my attention that you are currently faced with a difficulty close to my own area of expertise."
- Cerin frowns, focusing more closely on the construct.
<Zahara?> "So it would seem. However, it makes one wonder why you would care to stop such a thing, given your propensity towards death."
Indeed, how odd... Cerin has seen other ghosts before, but the Mask is different... he seems to possess two souls, like a living human...But what is that connecting the two of them....?
<Markuran?> "The black tide of doom ghouls sweeping across the South, yes. As Zahara said, you should be helping them, not here talking from a litter."
One hand sticks out from the litter to gesture expressively. "Contrary to what you may believe, I have no more wish to see Creation dissolve into nothingness than you. I have better purposes to see it put to."
- Cerin frowns more deeply, radiating concern and curiousity as he studies the bridge, filtering out the brilliant crystal flare of the charms and the sorcerries bound around the man.
<Markuran?> "How odd, considering your brothers and sisters. What is it you wish to tell us?"
The hand shakes a single finger. "Ah, not yet. There is still an unspoken difficulty between us."
<Zahara?> "I cannot begin to imagine what that would be." she says lightly.
MaskOfWinters "I imagine you could not. Still, this betrayal, purposeful or no, wounded me deeply. Deeply!" The hand clutches into a fist.
MaskOfWinters "Nevertheless, I am willing to allow this insult to pass."
<Markuran?> "Betrayal? How can we betray you when we have no alliance?"
<Zahara?> "One would think that an ally who would leave so quickly, had no reason to stay."
MaskOfWinters "I ask for very little. Merely a small token. Then all shall be peaceful between our nations again." He pauses. "We are closer neighbors than ever before, now, after all."
<Zahara?> "What token would this be?"
MaskOfWinters "Merely that you agree to respect the newly-forged border that we share."
MaskOfWinters "I have... interests to the north. In exchange, I will offer you the assistance that you need to use against the Unlife Equation."
- Markuran glances at the others for their feelings
<Zahara?> "I have no particular tie to those in the North. Would you in turn respect the new border as well?"
<MaskOfWinters> "I would happily do so."
- Cerin murmurs very softly close to zahara's ear "lookshy."
<Markuran?> "I for one will respect our current borders with Thorns."
<Zahara?> "This is not to say that our borders in other directions will not change, of course, but that which we share with Thorns will remain unchanged."
MaskOfWinters "That is agreeable to me."
- Zahara looks to her companions for confirmation
- Markuran nods.
- Cerin gives a small nod. His body shows concern though.
- Zahara looks, then to Birds
<Zahara?> "Then we agree. We will not challenge the border between the Sunlands and Thorns."
MaskOfWinters "It is agreed! An emissary shall arrive within three days to make the arrangements."
<Zahara?> "As long as you agree to the same, no aggression between our two nations shall cross the border."
MaskOfWinters "Indeed."
The bearers suddenly begin to move, and walk the litter away from the Solars. Their strange, shambling gait bears them away from the manse, moving slowly. After a few moments, Cerin realizes he will be surprised in exactly ten seconds.
Ten seconds later, a voice speaks from behind the Solars: "That was an interesting decision."
- Markuran turns around slowly, glowering and one hand clinched into a fist
<BirdsOfTrinity?> "Interesting is one of my names."
- Birds-of-Trinity turns to see the speaker.
- Zahara lofts a brow, spinning smartly on her heel.
- Cerin turns smoothly
Leaning against one side of the doorway behind the Solars is Seven Herons Leaping, looking somewhat more ragged than he did when last they saw him, but with a grin on his face.
<Zahara?> "I thought so, myself."
- Cerin eyes range over the man in green. It was a crysthamum. He casts his mind back to a vision he saw several months ago.
<Zahara?> "Have you come to tell us the way to defeat the Equation without the Deathlords help in an ironic twist of fate?"
- Birds-of-Trinity realizes she is still dressed up, and changes her attire to match Heron's exactly.
<Herons?> "Actually, no, though I did intend to ask you to address the matter. Though it seems like that won't be necessary."
- Markuran crosses his arms over his chest and maintains his glower. "Did someone finally give you a beating or did you simply forget to bathe?"
He steps forward a few paces, to meet the Solars.
Cerin stares closely at the Sidereal, looking for something his memory tells him should be there....
<Zahara?> "We're on top of it" she says drily.
After a few moments, he catches the quickest glimpse of it: a tiny golden pin in the shape of a flower, pinned to the neck of Herons' robe.
- Cerin smiles softly as he catches sight of the pin. Then he stills the smile within the helmet he wears.
Ignoring Markuran's comment, he faces Zahara. "At the moment, I'm most interested in collecting the object you acquired for me."
<Zahara?> "Ah, yes, another one of our more interesting decisions."
<Markuran?> "Do you plan to trade if for better clothes?"
- Herons continues to ignore Markuran.
- Zahara notices Herons' participation in 'Ignore Markuran Day' with a self-satisfied nod.
- Markuran idly considers forcing the arrogant Sidereal to lick his boots...
<Herons?> "I can most likely assist you in other matters, if you allow me to do so."
<Zahara?> "What matters would those be?"
- Markuran manages to make himself resist the temptation..though he isn't quite sure why he does this. Sighing to himself, Marku contents his pride with glowering viciously at the Sidereal and making his displeasure with the man's presence and continued life plain for him to see.
<Herons?> "Perhaps the impending invasion force from the Realm?"
<Zahara?> "Ah, that. I have a plan for that."
- Markuran growls. "If you wish to help, help. Do not hint and scheme and plot. For once in your existence, be a man instead of a rat in the shadows."
<Herons?> "Ah, do you? Interesting..."
<Zahara?> "I would be interested to hear your views on it, however. Possibly in less company than we have now."
<Cerin?> "There might be something you could help with though..." he makes sure Zahara sees just where his gaze falls on Herons. his neck.
<Herons?> "Ah. And what would that be?"
- Zahara follows Cerin's gaze, then turns back to Cerin with an inquiring look
<Cerin?> "I have developed an interest in the flows of essence. And of Exaltation. Another person to study would be most welcome."
<Herons?> "That could be arranged."
- Cerin nods. "That would be enlightening for me, I am sure. Thank you."
<Zahara?> "Would you care to join me for dinner? We can discuss things over a nice roasted giant spider thing."
- Herons nods. "I would enjoy that."
- Zahara smiles, "Excellent."
<Markuran?> "We're out of giant spider thing."
<BirdsOfTrinity?> "Oh."
- Birds-of-Trinity looks sad.
<BirdsOfTrinity?> "I like spider thing."
<Markuran?> "We still have those pastries you made from it. And the pies I baked."


text:
Having an entire day to myself and being amidst beautiful storm clouds I could hardly contain my excitement at the amazing sky covering my county. I decided to grab the dog and take a back road tour of Copperopolis. With my camera in my lap and four lenses within arms reach I set out amongst the oak trees and green rolling hills to see what I could find.
My tour started on Rock Creek Road where oaks and farm land is abundant. The cows seemed to be enjoying the green grass as much as I was (no, I wasn't grazing in a field). In just a few short months it will be dead, brown and ugly. I'm really not looking forward to the heat of summer, especially in Copper.
Next I visited Felix and
before turning on Hunt Road. Hunt Road is gorgeous with steep hills and valleys. My camera just couldn't do the area justice. From Hunt Road you can see the entire valley. Next was Milton Road which took me to Highway 4. I turned off on Telegraph Road, a road I had wanted to take every time I passed it but seemed to always be headed somewhere else, usually in a hurry. Telegraph Road takes you to Carmen City which is desolate with no habitable structures. The dog and I roamed around and didn't see one other car the entire hour we were there. There are a couple of abandoned structures and remnants of rock buildings and walls that provided good photo opportunities. However, the sky had lost its clouds and turned into one giant grey blob. Telegraph City (originally called Grasshopper City)
Four hours and 200 pictures later I could hardly feel my fingers so decided to head home just as the rain drops started to fall. The dog had already given up; sound asleep in the backseat under a blanket in his bed. I hope that tomorrow brings the same kind of sky. I would love to go out for a few more hours tomorrow.
Some edited shots


text:
Call Bosch
We look forward to your call and will be pleased to assist you.
Phone 1800 817 177
Charges vary depending on your service provider and country.8A, Jalan 13/6, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Malaysia
Small but mighty, the spark plug is an integral ignition system component responsible for providing the jolt of electricity to ignite the air-fuel mixture that powers your car engine.
Here are some warning signs to help you identify when it's time to change your spark plug(s).
Being a major component in the starting mechanism of your vehicle, it is no surprise that a worn spark plug would cause difficulties in starting up a car. In such a situation, it usually takes a few tries to get your car up and running.
With a worn spark plug, you might experience a rough and jittery sound while your engine is idle (running while the vehicle is stationary). Usually, an unfamiliar vibration (in some cases, shaking) can also be felt throughout the whole vehicle.
Your engine misfires when one or more of your cylinders aren't firing properly. It will be noticeable when your vehicle halts briefly before resuming its usual movement, coupled with sporadic stuttering noises.
A worn spark plug interferes with the operation of a cylinder. When this happens, your vehicle would accelerate sluggishly even though you're already pushing down the gas pedal. This causes your engine to work harder, increasing demands on other components of your car.
Over time, as a spark plug wears down, the gap between the plug electrodes can either expand or shrink, causing it to be less fuel-efficient. If there is a sudden increase in your petrol bills, it could indicate a worn spark plug.
Also known as engine hesitation, this is when your vehicle experiences a deceleration that comes to a stop after a sudden jerk. In addition to heavier wear and tear on your vehicle internal parts, an engine surge is especially dangerous when you have to cross an intersection as your vehicle will be stationary while other vehicles come your way from different directions.
So, we've covered the major symptoms of a worn/faulty spark plug and the dangers it poses to your vehicle and your day to day safety. How then can we safeguard against these? We recommend 2 solutions.
Firstly, be wary and get your spark plugs checked out if one or more of the above symptoms are present. The second solution is to get good quality sparkplugs to begin with. Good spark plugs tend to last longer, giving you time to notice the milder symptoms of wear before anything important in your engine is compromised. #GetItRight #StartWithBosch


text:
Author(s): Anne Fadiman
The author is the sort of person who learned about sex from her father's copy of "Fanny Hill", and who once found herself poring over a 1974 Toyota Corolla manual because it was the only thing in her apartment that she had not read at least twice. This title recounts her lifelong obsession with books.
Anne Fadiman is editor of The American Scholar and an award-winning journalist. Her first book, The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down won the US National Book Critics Circle Award for Non-Fiction. She lives in New York City.


text:
While perhaps not especially useful to most, Brussels Airlines has an innovative promotion for the World Cup. They're offering the opportunity to fly with their football team roundtrip between Brussels and Sao Paulo, and the package even includes tickets to all of the games that the Belgian Red Devils play in.
Here are the details:
As the official airline of the Belgian Red Devils, we are very proud to fly our Belgian national football team to Brazil for the 2014 world cup, on board one of our Airbus A330 wrapped in Belgian colors for the occasion. There are only 56 seats still available (out of the 150 seats) on the team's flight SN2014 and you can be in one of them!
As well as joining the Belgian Red Devils on SN2014 to São Paulo, you'll get to root for them at all the world cup matches they play (up till the finals, we hope!). You'll return to Belgium together with the team!
Total price (up until the finals): €3,499
While hotels aren't included, I'd say that's not a half bad deal for roundtrip flights and tickets to the games, assuming you're a huge football fan. I mean, if there were a flight with all of the Real Housewives, for example, I'd be in like flynn.
And per the FAQ, you even get a refund if the Red Devils don't make it to the finals:
What if the Red Devils leave the tournament early?
The total price of the SN2014 package includes the return flight fare and the cost of entrance tickets to every match the team plays, up until the finals. If the Red Devils do not make it to the final, you'll be refunded the cost of the entrance tickets for the matches which the Red Devils don't play. If they are eliminated after the 1st round, you'll be refunded €814; after the 8th finals, you'll be refunded €724; and after the quarter finals, you'll be refunded €590.
Kudos to Brussels Airlines for their creativity!
Now what I'd really like to take part in is Brussels Airlines' Tomorrowland flights (and while I'd stick out like a sore thumb, I'd sure find it fascinating):
Just don't tell the Directorate General Of Civil Aviation in India about these flights, because I doubt they'd approve. 😉
(Tip of the hat to Chris)


text:
Cape Town – Solange Knowles is coming to South Africa to headline Afropunk Johannesburg.
Afropunk Johannesburg is set to take place on 30 and 31 December 2017. The line-up will also feature US singer Anderson Paak and local talent such as Spoek Mathambo, Laura Mvula, Black Motion and more.
Taking to Twitter on Thursday night, 30-year-old Solange said: "Very very excited to bring in my New Year in Johannesburg."
See her tweet below:
Very very excited to bring in my New Year in Johannesburg, headlining @afropunk ?? pic.twitter.com/CDV7SvstEd
— solange knowles (@solangeknowles) May 11, 2017
The Afropunk Festival is an annual arts festival that celebrates and unifies the cultural cornerstones of AFROPUNK through music, film, skate, and art. The festival originated in the US but has since expanded to other cities such as Paris and London.Afropunk Joburg details:
Date: 30 and 31 December 2017
Venue: Constitution Hill
Tickets: Weekend pass – R900; Saturday pass – R600; Sunday pass – R600.
Tickets are available from Webtickets.
Solange previously visited SA in 2012 to do a cover shoot for Elle magazine in Cape Town. And while she was in SA she decided to shoot the music video for her song Losing You in Langa.
See the video below:


text:
Wigs deserve the best care.
Wigs are more than an accessory. Whether curly, straight, short or long, wigs assist in achieving the style someone has always wanted or build self-confidence in the face of an illness. Like regular hair, wigs require restyling and conditioning to maintain a fresh, presentable look.
Curling irons are impractical.
Curling irons and flat irons are common methods for styling hair, but the dry heat they produce cannot be used on synthetic wigs. Doing so may damage the synthetic fibers, which makes the wig look worn and unkempt.


text:
Home > Archives (2006 on) > 2018 > Victory of Post-Poll Alliance in Karnataka: Victory for the Constitutional (...)
Mainstream, VOL LVI No 23 New Delhi May 26, 2018
Victory of Post-Poll Alliance in Karnataka: Victory for the Constitutional Method to Checkmate Communal and Fascist Forces
Saturday 26 May 2018
by S.N. Sahu
Long years back, while replying to a debate in the Constituent Assembly, Dr B.R. Ambedkar had very thoughtfully said that Indian democracy would produce many impossibles. What happened in Karanataka, in terms of the Governor inviting the leader of the single largest party—BJP—to take oath as the Chief Minister even as the Congress-JD(S) combine staked claim on the basis of the majority of MLAs on their side gave the impression that the BJP would be able to manage the majority and it would be impossible for the post-poll Congress and JD(S) alliance to form the government. There seemed to be everything going against the post-poll alliance as the Governor extended the invitation to Yeddyurappa to take oath as the Chief Minister and gave him fifteen days to prove his majority even though, as per media reports, Yeddyurappa wanted only seven days to do so. The manner in which the invitation was extended by the Governor at 9 pm and Yeddyurappa was asked to take oath as the Chief Minister at 9.30 am next day left hardly any scope for the Congress-JD(S) combine to move the Supreme Court in the middle of the night to challenge the decision of the Governor to invite Yeddyurappa to form the government.
Questionable Role Played by the Karnataka Governor
The role played by the Governor raised many questions and the legal and moral basis of his actions were found to be weak. In the process the institution of the Governor was considerably weakened and diminished by the actions of the Governor who unmistakably appeared to be motivated by partisan considerations. It was inconsistent with the vision of the framers of the Constituent Assembly who envisioned the Governor to be impartial, neutral and independent constitutional post taking oath to preserve, protect and defend the Constitution. It was also incompatible with Mahatma Gandhi's utterances of December 12, 1947 that "theirs (Governors) must be an all pervasive moral influence in their provinces". The fact that in the past many Governors had not lived by the high values and vision associated with the office of the Governor is no excuse to justify the infractions committed by the present Governor of Karnataka. The widespread questioning of the decision of the Governor including in the apex court speaks of his doubtful credibility to live by the oath he has taken to preserve, protect and defend the Constitution.
Fear of Poaching of Congress and JD(S) MLAs
Apprehensions were expressed in many quarters that elected MLAs of the Congress and JD(S) would be influenced by the BJP to come to its side and support the government headed by Yeddyurappa even at the risk of violating the provisions of the Anti-Defection Law and getting disqualified in lieu of pecuniary considerations. Some audio tapes played in some TV channels clearly prove the point that the MLAs of the post-poll alliance were lured to break away from their original parties and support the BJP for getting many favours including some ministerial berths. Shri Ram Madhav, while participating in a discussion in a TV channel on the possibility of the BJP forming the government in Karnataka in spite of inadequate MLAs in its fold, famously replied that the BJP has Shri Amit Shah to take care.
Alertness and Reflexive Action on the part of Congress at the Political Level
In such a situation what turned the table against the BJP was sheer alertness and sharp reflexive action on the part of the Congress leadership led by Ghulam Nabi Azad to unconditionally extend support to the JD(S) to form the government before the Election Commission formally announced and notified the election results and stake claim before the Governor of Karnataka that they had majority support to form a stable government. Such sharp and reflexive action on the part of the Congress leaders stood in contrast to what it did in Goa where it did not stake claim to form the government even as it emerged as the single largest party after the election results were announced in that State. In fact when the BJP Government was formed in Goa based on the post-poll alliance it forged and acquired majority, the Congress party moved the Supreme Court challenging the decision of the Governor and arguing the point that as the single largest party it should have been invited to form the government. When the Supreme Court observed that the Congress party did not even stake claim to form the government, the latter had no explanation to offer.
Eventually it moved a substantive motion in the Rajya Sabha under the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business to discuss the conduct of the Goa Governor in not asking the single largest party to form the government. The then Chairman, Rajya Sabha, M. Hamid Ansari, admitted the motion but could not give time to discuss it in the House as the Rules required that the Chairman may discuss with the Leader of the House and allot time but for some inexplicable reason the Leader of the House, Arun Jaitley, did not indicate the time in spite of several reminders by the Congress leaders to do so. As a result the substantive motion to discuss the conduct of the Goa Governor could not be taken up. All those developments heavily weighed in the minds of the Congress leaders and they wasted no time in forging a post-poll alliance with the JD(S) and staking claim with the Governor to form the government.
Sharp and Reflexive Action to move the judiciary
The sharp reflex action and alertness on the part of the Congress leaders was evident at the political level and it was blended nicely and strategically with their quick and brilliant initiatives to move the Supreme Court in the middle of the night to challenge the Governor's decision to invite Yeddyurappa to take oath as the Chief Minister. It was a master-stroke and one must acknowledge that the Supreme Court responded with adequate judicial sensitivity by constituting a Bench and hearing the parties concerned till morning and giving an order that a pro tem Speaker be appointed to conduct the floor test, that the 15 days time given by the Governor to Yeddyurappa to prove majority be reduced to a mere two days and asking the Chief Minister not to nominate five Anglo-Indian members to the Karnataka State Assembly.
The alertness and vigilance maintained on the part of the Congress and JD(S) to keep their elected MLAs together and make them immune to poaching by the BJP to ensure the necessary strength to prove majority on the floor of the House also contributed to fortify their resolve to unitedly sustain their post-poll alliance.
Yeddyurappa's Resignation proved his Claim of Majority Support Hollow
The resignation of Shri Yeddyurappa after delivering an emotional speech in the Karnataka Assembly and without facing the floor test proved beyond reasonable that his claim of majority support for his party was a hoax and constituted a hollow claim and Governor's assessment to the effect that he extended invitation to the BJP leader after satisfying that prima facie he would form a stable Government was hopelessly erroneous and contrary to the law and convention established in this regard.
Constitutional Methods Ensured Victory for post-poll Alliance in Karnataka and can Counter Communal and Fascist Forces
The victory of Congress and JD(S) alliance in Karnataka indicates that the fascist and communal forces can be checkmated by sheer alertness and vigilance in taking prompt action in combination with secular forces and formations and strategic use of institutions enshrined in the Constitution. All such methods, which enabled the post-poll alliance to register triumph in Karnataka and snatch victory from the jaws of defeat, proves right the prediction of Dr Ambedkar that Indian democracy would produce many impossibles. The victory achieved in Karnataka by the post-poll alliance was based on employment of the constitutional method in contrast to the uncons-titutional method adopted by the authorities to invite Yeddyurappa who had not got the support of the majority of members.
Dr Ambedkar his last speech in the Constituent Assembly stressed on adoption of the constitutional method and urged the nation to remain wedded to it to achieve the objectives of the Constitution and cautioned that any other method contrary to the constitutional method would result in the grammar of anarchy. In fact the grammar of anarchy wrought by the communal and fascist forces in twentyfirst century India has to be countered by widespread adoption of the constitutional method which, as Professor Amartya Sen and Jean Drez in their book An Uncertain Glory: India and its Contradictions said, deepens public reasoning and helps to use democracy and democratic methods more creatively for achieving the goals enshrined in the Constitution. This is the larger meaning and significance of the victory of the post-poll alliance in Karnataka.
The author served as an Officer on Special Duty and the Press Secretary to the former President of India, late K.R. Narayanan.


text:
Just a day after Steven Tyler announced he was quitting "American Idol" to re-focus on Aerosmith and his music career, Jennifer Lopez has done the same. This morning, JLo called into the Ryan Seacrest radio show to let the public know. Lopez said: "I honestly feel like the time has come that I have to get back to doing the other things that I do."
She added: "We had an amazing run."
There are also rumours that Randy Jackson may not be returning next year either, leaving Ryan Seacrest the last man standing on the show, which debuted in 2002.


text:
JC's Top Rope Report: A Rough Summer For Wrestling Fans
As wrestling fans, we have unfortunately grown accustom to seeing some of our favorite legends and stars leave the earth too soon. And this summer, in less than two months time, we have seen the passing of two of the most iconic performers the wrestling business has ever seen.
Yesterday, Rowdy Roddy Piper passed away at the age of 61. I was shocked when I heard the news. Piper had beaten cancer. He seemed to be someone in good health recently. And just like that, he is gone.
Piper revolutionized the wrestling business in the 1980s. When he came to the WWF, he helped bring wrestling to the mainstream media. He was a huge part of the first Wrestlemania and everything that happened with MTV. Piper was so good at being a heel. You don't see the kind of heat that Piper got back then nowadays. Piper was hated by the masses. I think he might be the greatest heel in wrestling history.
In many ways Piper was way ahead of his time. Piper wrestled into the late 1990s, but he was somebody who could fit in to today's wrestling world now with no problem. Of course, if he were in the WWE today, he would be the heel that everyone would want to cheer. Piper was just so great on the mic. He never skipped a beat, he was always on his A game. He could undress anyone who tried to challenge him on the mic.
So many historic moments happened on Piper's Pit. Everyone remembers Piper smashing a coconut over the head of Jimmy Snuka. The Hulk Hogan/Andre the Giant main event at Wrestlemania 3 was set on Piper's Pit. Piper's own Wrestlemania 3 match was also set up with a Piper's Pit segment involving Adrian Adonis.
Hulk Hogan is considered to be the biggest star of the 1980s. But if it were not for Rowdy Piper, Hulk Hogan would not have become as big as he did. It takes two people to draw a crowd in the wrestling business. A babyface is only as good as the heel he is feuding with. As Piper said to Hogan at the end of Halloween Havoc 1996, "Do you think the fans would have loved you so much, if they hadn't hated me?" That statement is 100% true. Hogan needed a strong heel to draw people into the building and want to see Hogan kick their ass. Piper was great at that.
People always talk about the greatest wrestler to never win a World Title. The conversation should start and end with Rowdy Piper. No one drew as much or was as big a star as Piper that is in the conversation. And Piper didn't need to win the Title to justify is drawing or star power. He did that night in and night out by being the best performer when he stepped out from the curtain.
In less than two months, the wrestling world has lost two of its best performers of all time in Piper and the "American Dream" Dusty Rhodes. You could argue that those two are the two best talkers in wrestling history. While Dusty Rhodes was the top face in the NWA, Piper was the top heel in the WWF. Imagine if those two would have crossed paths during that time period. That would have been one hell of a program to see. Add into all of this the death of Hulkamania as we know it, and the 1980s pro wrestling world has taken a heavy shot to the gut this summer. We've lost two great performers, and the biggest star in pro wrestling history has had his legacy tarnished.
But while we may have lost a handful of stars from the 80s, they will never be forgotten by wrestling fans. And that is because their work never ages as time goes on. Go ahead and throw on a Dusty Rhodes or Roddy Piper math/promo right now. They are textbook examples of Pro Wrestling 101. It shows how simple wrestling can be if it is booked properly. Anyone who wants to get into the pro wrestling business today should watch their work if they want to see how to get over with a crowd. Thanks to modern technology and things like the WWE Network, the work of Piper and Dusty Rhodes will never go away. It will live on for generations to come and will be seen by new audiences on a constant basis.
So while we may be mourning the loss of another wrestling legend, we will do what we always do as a wrestling community. We will celebrate the life and career of two of the greatest wrestlers to ever step foot in a wrestling ring. We will sit back and put on a Rowdy Piper match or Piper's Pit segment and enjoy his great work. That's how we come together as a pro wrestling community. We remember the good times and celebrate the great careers that we were able to see. And we make sure those careers are never forgotten. Rowdy Piper and Dusty Rhodes memory will never die in the hearts and minds of wrestling fans.
Until Next Time,
Justin C
Follow Me On Twitter @JCWonka


text:
AFC Ajax has announced its half-yearly figures. Over the first 6 months of the 2017-2018 financial year it has realised a net profit of €16.9 million.
Key figures:
* Ajax has made a net profit of €16.9 million over the first 6 months of the 2017-2018 financial year.
* The operational result is €4.4 million negative, mainly due to the lack of income from the group stage of a European tournament.
* The total compensation amount is €27.2 million positive. This comprises the write-off on the compensation amount of €10.7 million and the result compensation amount of €37.9 million. The result compensation amount primarily concerns the transfers of Davinson Sánchez, Kenny Tete and Jairo Riedewald.
* The net turnover amounts to €46.8 million, which is a decrease of €8.0 million.
* The total operating charges are €51.2 million, a decrease of €0.9 million.
* The total equity rises by €16.6 million to €175.5 million, 67.0% of the balance sheet total in the first six months of the 2017-2018 season.
* The squad of the first team now consists of 26 selected players. In addition 5 contracted players are loaned out and 38 players have a youth contract.
The analyses and the ensuing financial overview concern the period from 1 July 2017 through to 31 December 2017 and are compared to those of the period 1 July 2016 through to 31 December 2016.


text:
About TEDxRiverton Organizer
It was a dream to host a TEDx event when I was 30 years old... I pursued that dream after a breast cancer scare, meeting decision-makers at TED in their New York office. I was granted a license to host TEDxBountiful, and hosted the event exactly one month (January 18, 2012) after having surgery to remove not one, but two lumps. They were benign, so my health was clear, but I am glad that a little fear was the catalyst to follow my dreams.
The inaugural 2018 TEDxRiverton 'Dreams Don't Work Unless You Do' was amazing for our community. 2019 Infectious proved to be bigger, better, and bolder. In our third year, the theme is WILD.
2019, Infectious, is inspired by all of those working every day to make a difference. Changing the world around them with a new medical device, entertainment, and bright light. It will be compromised of all things that are infectious ideas worth spreading that can make a difference.
2020 is WILD -
Wild is a state of being, releasing, allowing, and becoming.
What I love about TED and TEDx is the fact that it makes the uncomfortable, comfortable. Ideas worth spreading that blow the walls out of boxes or open your eyes to see things in a different light. It's not about agreeing, it's about exploring and learning something different, and saying wow - I never thought about that.
Boxes can't stay taped up forever. Corners get damaged, sides get crushed, and things get broken. In order for change to occur, something has to break. TED Talks inspire change or movement, bringing like-minded people together to start talking and creating.
I'm excited about what is to come this June 2020 in my hometown in Utah. I'd love to see you there, and if you feel you have an idea worth spreading feel free to apply to be a speaker at this upcoming event.
I dare you to follow your WILD.
From my wild to yours,
Mandy Murry
Mandy Murry is a writer, sought-after keynote speaker, author, and marketing consultant helping brands & CEO's tell their stories & inspiring audiences with her 3x cancer story.
Her captivating storytelling adds magic to destinations, cuisine, experiences, products, culture, and health & wellness features. Her ability to connect with people is as contagious as her passion for life and cloudsurfing (aka flying/traveling).
When not traveling, she can be found sitting on her porch with their dogs sharing a glass watching sunrises and sunsets in the mountains of Western North Carolina, just outside of Asheville.


text:
Your mapping, managing, and integrated catalog system all under one roof!
ACES xml, .csv, and new catalog acquisitions can easily be imported through the Data Manager or DM. The system uses audit reports and a built-in roll back feature to provide exact and efficient imports. All the while taking into consideration the VCDB, PADB, and PCDB, so that the data can be imported accurately.


text:
Apart from not knowing and not interested in MP3 I am generally cautious of so called free things, but having checked these out I've not found the catch to them so I can only say thank you and for those interested get them
Thanks for the comment my friend, as you know so many "free" offers turn out not be be free, so it is good when one really is
Last edited by seti; 6th December 2009 at 14:56. Reason: missed off a word
I have a fairly large collection of MP3s that I obtained from Amazon, including Celtic, Jazz, oldies by Billie Holiday & Ella Fitzgerald and more. Last year it was a different song every day for 25 days.
Marc, you won't want to miss "Sampler Claus" Amazon.com: Sampler Claus: Various: MP3 Downloads
Just to say: congratulations MarcEmarc your post has been mentioned by Gizmo
Download dozens of free holiday MP3s


text:
IMF cuts down the Portuguese GDP growth to 2.3% this year
International Monetary Fund's expectations for the Portuguese economy have lowered to an estimated 2.3% GDP growth, while its forecast for 2019 remains unchanged (1.8%).
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Tuesday revised down its projection for Portugal's economic growth this year to 2.3%, and left its forecast for 2019 unchanged at 1.8%, less than the government is projecting.
According to the latest World Economic Outlook released on Tuesday, the IMF shaved one-tenth of a percentage point off its forecast for growth in Portugal's gross domestic product, from the 2.4% it had been predicting since April.
That is in line with the government's own forecast, contained in its Stability Programme 2018-2022, unveiled in April.
For next year, though, the IMF continues to be less optimistic than the government, foreseeing GDP growth of 1.8% – that is, foreseeing a slowdown earlier than the government does. In the Stability Programme, the government sees the economy growing by 2.3% in 2019 and 2020 and slowing to 2.2% in 2021 and 2.1% in 2020.
On the other hand, the IMF remains more optimistic than the government on the jobs market, predicting unemployment of 7% this year and 6.7% next.
The government, in turn, projects the jobless rate to be 7.6% this year, falling to 7.2% next, and only below 7% in 2020 (6.8%) before falling further to 6.5% in 2021 and to 6.3% in 2022.
Unlike the executive, the IMF sees the current deficit deteriorating, from a nil balance this year to a deficit of 0.3% of GDP in 2019. The government's programme has the current balance surplus swelling to 0.7% of GDP this year and then holding until 2020, before narrowing to 0.4% of GDP in 2022.
Source: Lusa


text:
Gervais ruled incompetent to participate in his defense; rehabilitative effort ordered
Daniel Gervais arrested May 3, charged with killing wife
TORRINGTON >> A city man accused of killing his wife was found incompetent Tuesday to participate in his own defense.
Daniel Gervais, 70, was arrested by Torrington police May 3 after his wife, Phyllis Gervais, was found dead in the couple's Torrington home on April 22. He is charged with murder and tampering with physical evidence.
His attorney, Thomas Waterfall, in June requested a hearing on Gervais' mental competency to stand trial. Gervais had suffered a stroke in January, and struggled to communicate with his legal representation, according to Waterfall.
A clinical team with the Office of Forensic Evaluations, a subgroup of the state Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, concluded in a report shared Tuesday at Superior Court that Gervais "displayed significant deficits that interfered with his ability to learn, retain, or apply information that was presented to him" during an evaluation.
"At present, he lacks the capacity to follow the advice of an attorney or to make rational and relevant decisions based upon that advice. He did not demonstrate the ability to consistently retain information that was presented to him during the evaluation. His impairments render him unable to follow testimony, testify, or be cross examined," psychiatrist John Bonetti, clinical psychologist Kevin Young, and licensed clinical social worker Vivian Carr said in the report. "Therefore, it is the unanimous opinion of the clinical team that Mr. Daniel Gervais is not able to understand the proceedings against him nor his he able to assist in his own defense at this time."
Carr testified in court Tuesday during Judge John A. Danaher III's consideration of Gervais' ability to stand trial.
According to the report, Gervais demonstrated problems with his memory and cognitive function during the evaluation, including an inability to consistently state the allegations against him and a lack of knowledge of court procedure, even after attempts were made to share information with him.
A Department of Correction psychologist said in the report that Gervais did not appear to have issues with his day-to-day memory while in prison, but "consistently states that he doesn't remember things from January on," and that there were concerns about "impulsivity or unpredictable behaviors." Gervais attempted to commit suicide while in prison, according to the report.
According to the report, there was some question as to the level of effort that Gervais put into the evaluation, particularly during the formal analysis of his mental status, and some of his answers were deliberately misleading.
The team said that "there is a substantial probability that (Gervais) could be restored to competence through an inpatient psychiatric hospitalization of approximately 60 days," which would allow him to be more consistently observed, educated, and tested with regard to his capacity to stand trial.
Waterfall focused on the finding of the report in his argument to Danaher.
"The report speaks for itself," said Waterfall. "The finding ultimately was unanimous that he is not competent at this point."
State's Attorney David Shepack said he was concerned about deception on Gervais' part during the evaluation process, noting a potential "undercurrent of malingering (defined as exaggerated or feigned illness in order to escape duty or work, according to merriam-webster.com)" that could be considered through hospitalization and further observation.
"I think this evidence raises the specter that the defendant reports the things that are beneficial to him," said Shepack.
Danaher concluded that Gervais was at this point unable to assist in his defense, based on factors detailed in the report and discussed Tuesday. He placed him in the Whiting Forensic Unit of the Connecticut Valley Hospital, which is administered by DMHAS, until Gervais' next scheduled court appearance Nov. 11.
Danaher said that progress reports would be generated seven days prior to hearings.
He ordered that a report be generated if Gervais is found competent prior to the court date, or if it were determined to be improbable that competency could be restored in 18 months, the maximum period allowed under state statute.