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SBM Scholarship Scheme
Feedback from Beneficiaries
During the various editions, some of our beneficiaries were quoted saying:
«In 2010, I was struck by financial constraints and it was at that time that SBM launched the first edition of the scholarship scheme for bright and needy students. After the application process, I was among one of the 57 recipients of the scholarship. My efforts were rekindled because I knew that my well-wishers were investing a lot to shape my future. After 3 years of hard work, I graduated in October 2013 with a Degree of Bachelors of Arts from the University of Mauritius in English with First class Honours.
I want to extend my gratitude to all those who came up with this initiative and for the unflinching financial support I got from SBM. I would highly advise students to apply for this scholarship because it is carefully crafted to help them to unleash their potential and achieve their educational goals.
My interest in teaching started when I was in college and the SBM scholarship has allowed me to fulfil that dream. Today, I am a proud English educator at Modern College, Central Flacq where I am working with adolescents, teaching General Paper, Literature in English and other components of the English language. Now that my dream as an English educator has been realised, I want to make a difference in the lives of my students.
Thank you SBM for helping put a Degree within my reach.»
Mushiirah Bibi Persand - (Grand Gaube) - July 2015
«First and foremost I have great honour to convey big thanks to SBM for where I stand today. Being an employee at SBM since 3 years, I am grateful to the Management of SBM for choosing me as a potential element for the SBM Scholarship. May I rewind 5 years back when I possessed intellectual resources but not the required financial resources. SBM provided me with a scholarship and I successfully completed my BSc Honours in Management. Indeed, the scholarship has been a great support and motivation for my tertiary education.
SBM has been here since years to provide financial aid to bright and needy students. All parents and students must be certainly proud of such financial institution whereby Education is being encouraged through financial support.
Again thanks to the Management team of SBM for promoting such a Corporate Social Responsibility project where they are empowering the rising stars of the future generation.
Thank you for allowing me to share my precious experience with you today.»
Viraj Seethiah - (Quartier Militaire) - July 2015
«Je suis Yonella Latouche, étudiante en « Hospitality Management » à l'école hôtelière et je suis actuellement en 3ème année d'étude. Ce scholarship m'a poussée à donner le maximum pour mes études qui demande beaucoup d'effort surtout maintenant que je suis en stage en entreprise. Ceci a été un grand soulagement pour mes parents surtout sur le plan financier. J'encourage d'autres jeunes à tenter leur chance.»
Yonella Latouche - (St Paul) - July 2015
«I am indeed very grateful that I was awarded the SBM Scholarship Award in 2010 . As a financial support, it has allowed me to be one step closer to my goal without any financial concern to worry about. This has further motivated me to excel in my tertiary studies at the University of Mauritius and finally I graduated with a First Class with Honors Degree in Chemical and Environmental engineering. I am presently employed as a Training Coordinator at Team Synthesis. I wish to heartily thank the SBM team for recognising the importance of education.»
Youvina Agarsing - (Mahebourg) - July 2014
«Je tiens à remercier la SBM Education Fund d'avoir financé mes trois années d'études l'Université de Maurice. C'est une très bonne initiative de la part de la SBM de financer les études des personnes dont leur famille n'ont pas les moyen de financement. Grâce à cela, j'ai pu terminer mes trois années d'études et à la clé, obtenir une License en Agriculture, qui me permettra à la longue de pouvoir espérer trouver un très bon emploi dans mon domaine respectif. Je travaille actuellement à Prince Tuna comme technicien de Laboratoire.»
Joey Mitchell Van Schellebeck - (Roche Bois) - July 2014
«All parents strive to give their child what they did not get and achieve what they have not been able to. Not only SBM has provided me with the necessary funds to pay my University fees but has also given me the opportunity to work for their respected institution and start my career path. I will be forever grateful to SBM for making so many dreams come true.»
Yovish Jahul - (St Paul) - July 2014
«For the numerous students around the country who feel hopeless at the thought of not being able to afford higher education, I would like to let them know that financial matters can no longer hold them back. This unique SBM Scholarship Scheme is here to help students realise their dreams to pursue further studies so that they may aspire to a brighter future. I therefore highly encourage them to apply for this scholarship.»
Medha Hareeram (Goodlands) - July 2013
«Grâce à cette bourse d'études, je n'ai eu à me soucier d'aucun problème financier pendant ces derniers 3 ans. Je souhaite exprimer ma profonde gratitude à la SBM qui m'a permis de poursuivre des études supérieures en m'offrant cette bourse d'études. C'est grâce à la SBM que je vais être diplômée en octobre et je serais éternellement reconnaissante à toutes ces personnes qui sont derrière ce programme. Je souhaite profiter de cette occasion pour faire un appel à d'autres étudiants, surtout ceux de mon île natale, l'île Rodrigues, pour profiter de cette opportunité unique qu'offre la SBM pour nous aider à aspirer à un avenir meilleur.»
Marie Ojanette Begue (Rodrigues) - July 2013


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subset: commoncrawl


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Editor's note: This Stocks Under $10 alert was originally sent to subscribers April 20 at 12:58 p.m. EDT. It's being republished as a bonus for TheStreet.com and RealMoney.com readers.
In our search to find new ideas for stocks trading under $10, we came across Abitibi-Consolidated ( ABY), one of the top newsprint companies in North America, which was recently trading at $2.82. But there's a twist to this story: The company is awaiting word from regulators about a proposed merger, and its shares would trade at about $47 if the merger is completed, according to the terms of the deal. (Abitibi shareholders get .06261 shares of the new company per ABY share.) This adjusted price would be higher than our Stocks Under $10 threshold, and so we can't include Abitibi in our model portfolio. However, we'd still like to take a look at this name. The newsprint market has been in a secular decline for most of this decade, notably in the advertising space. According to the Newspaper Association of America, an industry trade group, online advertising is expected to grow 25% while print advertising is forecast to decline 2% in 2007. Also, the industry appears to be getting weaker as newsprint consumption in North America fell 6% in 2006, its worst year-over-year decline in five years, according to the Pulp and Paper Products Council, an international alliance of industry groups. Based on these statistics, it's no wonder many of the companies in the newsprint industry have seen a considerable decline in their stock prices over the past few years. However, a recent merger and a surprising shift in U.S. trade policy could signal a turnaround in the industry and benefit Abitibi. The company has seen its share price decline more than 90% since 1997 to lows near $2.25 in 2006. Abitibi has been restructuring its operations over the past few years to compensate for the terrible industry conditions, and its Jan. 29 announcement that it plans to merge in an all-stock transaction with competitor Bowater ( BOW) could drive shares higher.


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I can show you a pic of me where I look like a 3 and another where I look like a 9. Lighting and angles. SO pics don't freaking count.
Gauging women's responses? Well women respond positively to me all the time but I also happen to be muscular and very intelligent (top 5 in class, engineering). BUT I need to know where my face ALONE stands... is there a way to know that involves something akin to walking into a modelling agency (not pics... physically being there) and asking? Like a facial aesthetics check up clinic?😅😅 jk kinda 😅😅
What would be an accurate way to measure facial aesthetics objectively (pics are NOT ACCURATE)?
I can show you a pic of me where I look like a 3 and another where I look like a 9. Lighting and angles. SO pics don't freaking count.
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What Guys Said 3
"aesthetics objectively"
Nice paradox.
Sure you can make it as objective as possible by eliminating as much subjective qualities from an image but ultimately it's going to be judged on a subjective basis.
Well what about a 'reference portrait' similar to one done for translating a face to computer graphics. Multi-angle shots of a neutral face, simple background maybe even a green-screen for easier chroma keying.10|10|0
Is there a place to ask in real life and find out where you stand compared to male models and Channing Tatums of the world? I KNOW I AM at least decent. But what am I at BEST?
This is for ego purposes...😅😅😈😈
What looks good changes with the times. If you really want to rank yourself then take a lot of data. All the data regarding men and their attractive features. I'm not talking surveys or polls. That's subjective. I'm talking heatmaps of viewed areas, internet and real life viewing habits, more invasive crap that's closest to an individual's truth.
Aggregate all that data and there is going to be a trend of what ranks the highest.
I'm sure any reputable brand with advertising have already done such a thing. They already have aggregated data for what their audience ranks 'best'. Calvin & Klein... Motorcycle magazine.. PrisonSoapBoxGangBang... EMO..
Frankly, best in the world is impossible. No matter how hard one tries, one will always be in a pool of other good looking men because the 'tastes' of individuals are unique and broad.
pictures compared to how you see yourself in the mirror, pictures are more accurate to how others would see you10|10|0
And do you just pull that shit outta your ass? Cameras make your face a 3d object into 2d. That and lens distortion coupled with lighting and camera quality and angles can make me look like a 3 a 5 and an 8 maybe even a 9
when looking at yourself in the mirror you can catch the light perfectly, yknow'amean, i mean i look shitty in pictures compared to mirror, but mirror is also a reversed image, where pictures reverse and then reverse it back so its as if seeing yourself from a persons view, maybe pictures just look ugly to us cause we aren't used to seeing ourselves like that (there aren't any metaphors in that)
Try what you said and walk into a modelling agency to see what they think.00|00|0
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American Water WorksOwners of American Water Works (NYSE: AWK) shares as of market close today will be eligible for a dividend of 28 cents per share. At a price of $42.72 as of 9:35 a.m. ET, the dividend yield is 2.6%. The average volume for American Water Works has been 827,700 shares per day over the past 30 days. American Water Works has a market cap of $7.6 billion and is part of the utilities industry. Shares are up 14.9% year to date as of the close of trading on Monday. EXCLUSIVE OFFER: Jim Cramer's Protégé, Dave Peltier, only buys dividend stocks that have the potential for a 3% to 4% yield and 10% growth. Get his best picks for less than $50/year. American Water Works Company, Inc., through its subsidiaries, provides water and wastewater services in the United States and Canada. The company's Regulated Businesses segment offers water and wastewater services to approximately 1,500 communities in 16 states. The company has a P/E ratio of 19.85. TheStreet Ratings rates American Water Works as a buy. The company's strengths can be seen in multiple areas, such as its growth in earnings per share, compelling growth in net income, revenue growth, good cash flow from operations and expanding profit margins. We feel these strengths outweigh the fact that the company has had generally high debt management risk by most measures that we evaluated. You can view the full American Water Works Ratings Report now.
- See our top-yielding stocks list.


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I've been to the Sea Gull several times. My wife and I loved it every time. It isn't always as well kept as you might expect, but the location is absolutly perfect, the owner is one of the nicest ladies in the world, and it always works out.
The rooms face the ocean, but Brigatine is a very flat beach with dunes, and this hotel is the only place I ever stayed where you feel like your on the beach, when your in the room. I sometimes go swimming in the ocean, and from the water wave to my wife, who is in the room because she doesn't like much sun. You don't need beach chairs and unmbrellas when you stay at this hotel. I do though recommend the 2nd floor if you want the beach in your living room.
We keep the windows and balcony door open and catch the ocean breeze. I love hearing the surf all night long.
- Also Known As:
- The Sea Gull Hotel Brigantine
- Sea Gull Brigantine
- Sea Gull Hotel Brigantine


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The vision of JCSAPC is to have a safe and healthy community free of substance abuse.
JCSAPC will work to reduce substance abuse by building community capacity and supporting substance abuse prevention, early intervention and treatment through recovery oriented systems.
Coalition Leadership
- Coalition Chair: Bruce VanEyck, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Jackson County
- Coalition Vice-Chair: Melissa Tinervia, Home of New Vision
- ATOD Committee Co-Chair: Alicia Soles, Circuit Court and Bev Ward
- Fun Fact Finders Chair: Bruce VanEyck, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Jackson County
- Strategic Planning Committee Chair: Rhonda Rudolph, Jackson County Health Department
Coalition Framework


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Warning: Story Contains Graphic Images
The U.S. Senate Intelligence Committee posts a link to a video prepared by the CIA showing YouTube videos of victims of a suspected chemical weapons attack in Syria.
Senator Dianne Feinstein, the head of the Senate Intelligence Committee said she asked the CIA to prepare a DVD for lawmakers as evidence that the Syrian government used chemical weapons against its own people.
The videos were shown to the Committee Thursday.
The DVD is another tool that could be used to persuade lawmakers to give President Barack Obama congressional approval to carry out a limited military strike against Syria.
A U.S. official who spoke on the condition of anonymity said it contained YouTube videos of some of the people who either died or were being treated as a result of a chemical weapons attack on August 21st.


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ATLANTA to LAS VEGAS and VICE VERSA for $236 R/T nonstop via Delta (summer)
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All these opinions polls are crap. They have completely missed the debutante political party – and no , not the Aam Aadmi Party but Congress (V) aka Congress (Vadra) – of course "V" can also stand for quite a few auspicious words including "V" for Victory, "V" for the Venereal in VD, and so on – quite a catchy name and well chosen if you ask me.
As per the IndiaOpines estimates Congress (V), which is slated to announce its candidates soon, will win exactly 272 seats (a simple majority) in the upcoming Lok Sabha election. Our guess on the number of seats is as accurate as the forecast by any other channel – and we have not taken any kickbacks in making this estimate – we stand by the scientific methods (its a method called "hand-waving") used in coming up with the analysis.
Winning a Lok Sabha poll takes thousand of crores and while Mayawati has that kind of money – Vadra's wealth has been acquired way more easily making it a no-brainer for him to spend a part of his fortune to win in this election.
More importantly, people should take encouragement from the accomplished cabinet members of this upcoming ruling party. One by one:
Robert Vadra – Prime Minister with Joint Ministries of Jan Lokpal and Real Estate. His knowledge of real estate is well known. He is ideally suited for the position of Jan Lokpal (See below) and of course would make a potent Prime Minister. A Prime Ministership is a gruelling job – and he certainly has the physical fitness for success in this role.
Dawood Ibrahim (an Indian Citizen) – External Affairs Minister. He will solve the lingering India-Pakistan Kashmir problem. Kashmir will made into a conduit for drugs from Afghanistan to the United States spreading wealth and prosperity (and drugs) in Kashmir , taking people's minds and away from any secessionist inclinations. And his famed "D-company" will be used to quell any revolt within the party or "terminate" any threats from opposition parties.
Pavan Bansal – Railways Minister. Has some ingenious ideas in improving the catering in our trains. He will source most of railways requirements through his nephew thereby bringing quality and timeliness.
A. Raja – Telecom Minister. Thanks to his efforts the telecom rates have come down drastically , thereby benefitting the poor. Further auctions will be held for 4G,5G and 6G (these dont exist, but India will auction them in advance) – thereby creating stability in the system and cheaper telecom rates. Whether Education for all becomes successful or not – certainly everyone will have a (smart)cell phone
Suresh Kalmadi – Sports Minister. India will make a bid for the Olympic games. Everyone knows that lobbying is required – Kalmadi will bribe every individual of the Olympic committee and make a 100,000 crore budget for the Olympic games. He will create a new sports city – called the "New New Gurgaon" specifically for this purpose. Of course land for the "New New Gurgaon" has already been acquired by Robert Vadra at throwaway prices and will be sold for 100x (100 times) to the Indian Government
Salman Khurshid – Handicapped/Charitable Affairs Minister. Probably the most honest Minister in the erstwhile cabinet. Has a scam of only Rs 75 lakhs against his name. Noted philanthropist and runs a large charitable NGO.
Jayanti Natarajan – Environment Minister. India has a lot of forest cover – too much if you ask. Plus there is a garbage problem. It seems that 27000 crore spent every year does not solve the garbage problem in Mumbai – Jayanti will come up with ingenious ways of either using the forest land as a landfill or simply dumping it in the Sea (why bother – its only garbage after all). Unused forest land will be sold to Raobert Vadra's company Skylink thereby generating additional revenue for schemes that would benefit the poor.
Lalu Prasad Yadav – Agriculture & Animal Husbandry Minister. Specialist in fodder. Knows how much a cow can chew and how much can be siphoned away. Ideally suited as the Agriculture and Animal husbandry minister.
Ajit Pawar – Irrigation Minister. We dont need rains. He has promised to pee and fill up Dams – Think of it – if everybody peed into a Dam – water crisis in India would be resolved.
Sunny Leone – Minister for Culture. Her credentials are well known. Google her (not from your workplace please – and you will see what I mean).
No Chai Wala or Dynasty Wala can ever match the growth and prosperity that will be seen in India if this sort of Cabinet is formed to lead the country.
Vote for Congress(V)
By Indrajit Chatterjee
Also See:
Robert Vadra Nominated As India's First Jan Lok Pal
Robert Vadra For Prime Minister
Image Source : Dawood Ibrahim


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A golden brown colourway for the Polar Herrington Jacket. This is a zip up coat with a durable cotton body, decorated with an embroidered chest logo.
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The Freshman Intramural (Frosh IMs) Program offers a variety of inter-dorm competitions – both athletic and non-athletic – throughout the first year. By participating in the program, students not only benefit from a chance to exercise, play a fun game, and de-stress, but they also get to know others in their dorm and build a sense of dorm (and therefore Yard) pride.
How It Works
A total of 17 sports (both team and individual) and special non-athletic events are offered over the course of three seasons: fall, winter, and spring. Points are awarded for wins; and points are deducted for forfeits. At the end of the year, at a banquet in Annenberg Dining Hall, the dorm with the most points wins the historic Yard Trophy. At this meal, the program also recognizes the top female and male contributors with the Athlete of the Year Award. The names of these individuals and the winning dorm are forever enshrined on a plaque and the Yard Trophy itself.
Sports and Activities
The IM competition commences each fall with the annual Freshman Field Day in Tercentenary Theatre. A Harvard tradition, Field Day is a class-wide event where first-years play fun, low-key games such as Necking the Orange, Sponge Relay Race, and the biggest event of all – Yard-wide tug-of-war.
Other sports by season include:
Fall: Soccer, Ultimate Frisbee, Table Tennis, Charles River Run (1.5 mile-race), Flag Football Tournament
Winter: Basketball, Dodge Ball, Volleyball, Squash, Climbing Wall Tournament, Spelling Bee, and a Board Game Night
Spring: Soccer OR Frisbee, Flag Football, Tennis, Foosball, Softball, Charles River Run (1.5-mile race) Capture the Flag
Yard Athletic Council
The student group that oversees the Frosh IMs program is the Yard Athletic Council (YAC). Following an application and interview process in early September, the leadership team of the program selects a member from each dorm to represent that building on the council. The most successful YAC reps are those who love sports, but who are also extremely organized, comfortable knocking on doors, and enthusiastic for the program. This year's YAC reps can be found on the Frosh IMs Facebook page. If you are interested in applying for the YAC, contact Director of Freshman Intramurals Brandon Edwards.


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Pre-Calculus Partner Project
Stephen Goodall, Joe Rho
Phase 2
phase 3
In this phase I made one simple change. Since our class will not be worrying about lemniscate rotations, I deleted one of our graphs. This design is a representation of a pretty flower.
Phase 4
We experimented mathematically when we tried to change the size of the graphs by using different numbers and graphing it. While we were completing this assignment, we learned that the petals of the rose graph were not as sharp as we originally had thought. We enjoyed working on this project because it was simple yet it taught us a lot about the different types of graph and its attributes.


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A 2015 Blueprint for an "Artisan's Assembly of Metalworkers"
Posted by bighornforge on February 24, 2015
This is a compilation of thoughts and ideas spawned from seasoned, and learned artisans in metal who have offered their wisdom in an effort to improve a metalworking organization. I dedicate this text to these individuals, indeed hoping that this initiates a trend towards positive change, improving and solidifying the future of forging, along with complimentary forms of creative metalwork.
"A leader takes people where they want to go. A great leader takes people where they don't necessarily want to go, but ought to be." – Rosalynn Carter
It has been over 40 years since the renaissance of forging and shaping metal began. Numerous organizations have sprouted, some flourishing at some points during this time period. Making a living shaping metal was merely a dream for most in the 1970's. Today, though still not common, hundreds of men and women provide for their families by making things of metal; some full time, others part time. Over the four decades, such progress has been achieved that we can identify some of the metalwork made during this span as being made in a specific decade, or by a certain individual. Where once it was difficult to find a book on forging, today, not only are there numerous books, but we also have the Internet, providing information on metalwork literally at our fingertips. This knowledge base has increased at an alarming rate. What was almost lost has now been re-established in not only the minds of those shaping metal, but also in the minds of architects, interior designers, and even the every-day ordinary person with simply a passing interest. Many artisans who began their journey in metal in the 70's have grown by leaps and bounds learning many aspects of design, architecture, and process. The work that these artisans produce can sometimes be compared to the great masters, while others express new and exciting designs. For most, this maturation process took much longer than the average college education, and longer than the master guided apprentice/journeyman (guild) system of long ago.
However, while metalworking individuals have matured, metalworking organizations have not kept up with their maturation process. Some organizations began and flourished with their original game-plan, specifically geared towards artists, beginning smiths, and hobbyists, while others targeted specific process, modern technology, or leaned more heavily towards the business of metalwork. Unfortunately, these organizations planed out, and failed to take the lead; their original game-plans wore out, and eventually outdated.
For example, learning to forge in the 1970's was a scatter-gun approach. Students had no clear path to learning, so they enrolled in just about any workshop, bought any available books, and sought anyone who smelled like coal to teach them. Today, though we have a bounty of resources to learn from, as well as places to learn, learning continues to be the scatter-gun approach. Even with this vast knowledge base, and with numerous learned individuals, we still do not have an established, clear, and linear path to learn how to forge...not one. Yes, we can turn to many forging how-to books and instruction manuals, but none have proven to be a thorough treatise, nor a linear method for the student (or even an instructor). This is but one of the issues that has sadly never been seriously addressed by any metalworking organization. There is a need for metalworking organizations to mature, and there are numerous other outstanding reasons to do so; safety in the studio, as well as product safety and integrity heading the list.
"Leadership is the ability to transform vision into reality." – Warren G. Bennis
Since 1996, these and other issues have been highlighted through numerous conversations with many people, whom I shall refer to as "senior smiths", or those who have dedicated their lives to shaping iron, mainly by use of hammer, anvil and forge. Many of these individuals have pushed themselves to learn the processes of the great masters, i.e. Tijou, Mazzucotelli, Colnik, Yellin, Benetton, Kuhn, and others like them. They then apply and push themselves to master like forms, or then progress to design and create fresh ideas. Many of these senior smiths have offered opinions about what is lacking, what was missed, or what is needed in an organization to more properly lead, teach, communicate, and prepare highly motivated, interested, and devoted individuals in designing, studying, and shaping metal (See "Note #1" below). This dialogue speaks mainly for these senior smiths, as well as for some younger smiths, who are driven, determined, and disciplined in metalwork.
Note #1: It is interesting to note that many individuals dedicated solely to forging would not be satisfied with an organization based solely on forging. Many of these individuals also understand and appreciate many forms of well designed and well executed metalwork that utilize cutting edge technology i.e. MIG and TIG welding, laser and plasma cutting, and more. Many also understand that to make a living shaping metal without sometimes using cutting edge technology is difficult (though not impossible). It is also commonly accepted that if artisans and artists expect metal design to progress, that there must be freedom in the processes and technology in order to do so. Thus, an organization that promotes and represents these many forms of metalwork would be acceptable, however with a caveat: The organization must delineate each discipline as separate from the other(s), strongly highlighting each discipline's peculiarities to avoid confusion between disciplines. These distinctions are key in order for the organization to be successful.
For clarification purposes in the organization, it must be noted that each of these are indeed separate and distinct disciplines: 1.) Forging 2.) Electric welding (includes arc, MIG, and TIG) 3.) Fabrication (not utilizing forged elements nor forged joinery) 4.) Casting 5.) Stamping 6.) Machining (lathe, mill, CNC, etc.)
Here is a 2015 combined overview of the existing metalworking organization's dynamics, as well as the roots of some of their issues, and some potential solutions :
1.) Many observations by the senior smiths speak of a lack of design leadership, as well as forging fundamental leadership.
So…who are our leaders, and where are they? It would be easy to play favorites here, but clearly a leader would be one who shows proficiency at his or her craft. Other indicators would be business success, notoriety outside of the organization, proficiency at teaching the respective craft, and a proficiency in organizing and managing. These attributes largely describe a business owner. Of the successful business owners I know, many work 50, 60, or even 70 hours per week. This does not bode well for one who is asked to volunteer a great deal of time to run an organization outside of their work environment. It is well known that "time is money." That said, a volunteer based organization will not likely have many individuals reflecting the above listed attributes running the organization on a regular basis, or consistently. Volunteering gets old in a hurry when there are major problems within your own company. Many older, and/or retired artisans also feel they have already put in their proverbial dues by serving earlier in life. (For solutions to this situation, see #3 below.)
2.) Many site the publications as being sub-par, siting several cover images in particular.
Say what you may, but folks do judge books by their covers. Simply put, the cover ought to represent the craft's best in design and craftsmanship. The publication's contents should do the same. However, many articles are written in a folksy manner, contain poor images (i.e. poor lighting, background, noise, etc.). This is due in large part as many articles are written by the membership, not by journalists or professional writers.
Other complaints include editorial responsibilities, i.e. bad lay-out and format (lay-out too busy, graphic noise, contrasting color, etc.) If an organization pays professional writers to write the articles, the resulting essays will be well written, but sometimes lack insight or substance. The reason is likely that some of these professional writers are solely reporters, and not familiar with metalworking disciplines. Thus the resulting article may miss key points, miss emphasis on the process(es) used, and terminology is sometimes confused.
Potential solutions for #2 would first be to insure that the editor is of the mindset. He or she would be familiar with several forms of metalworking. The publication would have regularly contributing writers, all of whom are established in some form of metalwork, some or all of whom are paid to provide these articles. Member submitted articles would require sound content, and images that reflect professional qualities. Member submitted articles would also be accepted/rejected by an established review committee that works closely with the editor. The category (of metalwork), quality of articles, and cover image selection would be by recommendation of this committee. Specific departments would be established (i.e. forging, fabrication, restoration, reproduction, etc.) for continuity from one issue to the next, with lay-out that is high on essay and image content, and less on exotic page color, design, and font. Broader content could be accomplished by an "International Communique" department, as well as through regional editors, i.e. East coast, West Coast, Midwest, etc. If there is nothing to report for a given department in an issue, it would be noted "No Report" or "No Article Submitted for this Issue".
To help insure quality submissions, an annual "Members Choice Awards" would be held, based on publication submissions. Awards, based on images and design in the publication, would be for each category (see #II in the outline below), awarding gold, silver and bronze medals.
"The first responsibility of a leader is to define reality. The last is to say thank you. In between, the leader is a servant." – Max DuPree.
3.) Standards, education, and identification of achievements.
A.) Starting with the latter, if you sign up for a workshop, often the workshop is listed as for a beginner, an intermediate, or for an advanced individual. We can all define a beginner. However, what defines "intermediate" or "advanced"? (Think on this for a moment.) There are no universally accepted, nor accurate definitions of either as a gauge for learning metalworkers, especially where forged work is concerned. Ask a room of ten people in a given workshop to describe what an "intermediate" is, and you'll receive eleven different answers. You will likely receive a very huge and diverse cross section of what the requirements are for any given level.
Example: When a forging workshop is billed as "advanced", many might assume that an advanced individual is well acquainted and competent with forge welding. However, because of today's lack of level definitions, likely one or more members of a given advanced workshop would not be able to weld very well, or perhaps may never have forge welded anything at all. This is not so much an issue with a student with a mild interest in forging, but what of the other students in the advanced workshop? Will they get equal attention time from the instructor? Or will the instructor be mired down showing a novice welder how to weld? Or worse…several novices?! One instructor I know lamented that he taught an advanced workshop that involved knowledge of forging, hardening and tempering of carbon steels, along with power hammer work, only to find out that two of his five students had never had a forging hammer in their hand prior to that workshop.
Thus, to help solve this problem, there is a need for a system that identifies an individual's forging achievements.
B.) What about the instructor's capabilities? How does the student know whether the instructor knows enough about the craft to teach…and if he does have the requirements, can he teach the processes clearly? It might clearly state "master blacksmith" on the teacher's card or bio, so he must be a capable teacher, correct? Unfortunately, (and sadly), there are many instructors out there who should not be teaching or demonstrating. Since there is no established criterion for an individual to prove an individual's achievements, nor their ability to teach the craft in any way, shape or form, ….anyone, no matter their capabilities, can bill themselves as a forging instructor, teacher or demonstrator. So, for the unfortunate students, it is truly a roll-of-the-dice as from whom they will be learning…and what they will learn, right or wrong.
I have heard of one horror story where a person was teaching regularly (and charging a fee) with under a year's worth of forging experience…and that experience was based on only two weeks of formal instruction. He gets away with it because, let's face it, in today's world most people (i.e. beginners) have no clue about forging. A good analogy would be touting the fact that one can "imitate Abraham Lincoln orating when he was 25 years old." If you've never seen or witnessed the original, it all looks and sounds fantastic!
Many seasoned smiths can think back upon what they used to perceive was great design and workmanship, only to realize later what a disappointment that work really was back then. Remember that work of the 1970's? Everything was extreme twists, dragons, and letter openers, and many of us thought it was all wonderful.
Thus, knowing whether an instructor is competent will help the young students, as well as maturing students greatly.
"Leaders think and talk about the solutions. Followers think and talk about the problems." – Brian Tracy
B2.) But because an instructor is capable, doesn't necessarily mean he can teach the fundamentals well, linearly, or clearly. A universally accepted curriculum is needed, so everyone teaching can read from the same book. Beyond that, a system to train instructors should be developed, (perhaps a mentor-ship program) to insure the very best teachers for the students.
C.) Today, there are several individuals identifying themselves as "Master" blacksmiths. A true master (of anything) is a title awarded by a guild (or at the very least, a committee), to an individual who has met the criterion set forth by the guild. Since the guild system has ceased to exist, these modern day "masters" are self proclaimed, and have done so based on their own criterion. Unfortunately, this again causes confusion in many circumstances, as these "masters" could potentially be merely novices who went to Kinko's to have business cards printed with "Master Blacksmith" by their names. Sadly, their students, and sometimes their clients are duped into believing these individuals are reputable, competent, and proven in their designs and workmanship. Likely, many times their students will be taught the "long way around the barn", or wrong altogether. Also likely, their clients are left with a poorly designed piece that neither fits their style, nor the appropriate proportions of the given space.
"The very essence of leadership is that you have to have vision. You cannot blow an uncertain trumpet." – Theodore M. Hesburgh
Note #2: Many snarl at the notion of established levels, but as is being shown here, clearly established levels will aid in teaching and learning. It may be that those who turn up their noses to established levels fear that their true level is lower than they might believe. In other words, they fear they might be exposed as being less than they pontificate.
Established levels also serve as a benchmark, or a sort of achievement award for aspiring individuals. Consider this: What good would it have been for you if you had no idea what your grades were in grammar school? It is no different in forging and other disciplines.
Still others feel that established levels will create an elitist contingent. Believe me, the contingent exists, titles or not, so that is not a valid concern.
Note #3: Many who turn their noses up to labels or achievement levels say "My portfolio is all I need to declare and prove my competency." That may be true, both to their credit, but also perhaps to their detriment, as it may show how incompetent they are, and sadly many do not even recognize their own incompetence. Their portfolio might show what appears to be fine workmanship, however we all know an image may be deceiving or enhanced. We ourselves have "our best side", and likewise, so do some of our earlier works.
Beyond that, an image cannot prove out structural integrity. Have you ever approached a table, forged or not, and upon placing pressure upon it, had it shift miserably…so miserable that you dared not place a full glass upon it? That table looked just fine as you approached it, however just looking at it did not prove its integrity, or lack thereof. Likewise, an image proves nothing of structural integrity. Form follows function, and we've all seen seemingly wonderful designs, only to find out later that though it looks great, it functions poorly. Thus, one's portfolio is not solid proof of one's competency in design or workmanship.
"Leadership is an action, not a position." – Donald H. McGannon
The solution to Items #3 A-C would be to establish a well thought out system of achievement levels. This system should be based on the knowledge and experience of several seasoned and learned individuals who would pass the criterion in item #1 (above). Once a system has been established, a test period should ensue, and then an annual review board should evaluate how well the system is working, and make any necessary revisions. This review board should be in close contact with craft schools, forging organizations, and affiliates.
Some form of accepted instructor criterion should be in place to insure instructor competency. Again, perhaps a mentor-ship program could be in place where aspiring instructors could work alongside established instructors, until they learn the methodology of teaching the respective craft. It wouldn't be a stretch to say that certifying instructors would be a positive step for the betterment of the students, and especially the craft itself.
As mentioned above, a test period for the initial instructor training should be put in place, followed again by annual reviews by a board, also involving craft schools, forging associations, and affiliates.
D.) However, more importantly, before a curricula or achievement levels can be established, there needs to be a forging standard to measure by. But what standard? That is correct, there is no standard for forging, so at present, there is no concrete measuring stick to determine the level of competency of any individual. On another level, in the building trades, there is no "Forging Standard" to insure the safety of the product. That alone is a recipe for disaster. In addition, there is also nothing in place to insure safety in the forging studio.
Think on this for a bit: What denotes a sound tenon joint (see above image), a sound upset right angle bend, or a sound forge weld? For example, if a railing used as a barrier is constructed, and any one of these should fail, lives are in jeopardy. Simply stating that a railing can withstand 200 ft. lbs. from any given direction is not enough to insure safety, as if these joints are improperly executed, they may fail over time, and perhaps in a short time at that.
Finally, without a proper forging standard, it is impossible to develop a proper forging curriculum. The standard must come first, then the curriculum may be written. The curriculum should be of a linear nature, gradually immersing the student into more difficult processes. The student should then be graded, and finally awarded for any and all achievements.
Standards, curriculum, education, achievements, and safety…these all work together to better the craft, as well as the craftsman.
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, concerned citizens can change the world. Indeed it always has." – Margaret Mead.
4.) Forged, fabricated, or?
When we see an image in a publication or a piece in a competition, we need to know more specific information. We can all identify with marveling at a piece of metalwork, then wondering how a specific motif was accomplished. Some of us can also relate to viewing a project billed as "forged", only to note that most of it has been MIG welded, ground with a right angle grinder, used cast or stamped elements, and truly the only "forging" were some hot-formed and bent bars. The problems here are many. For the learning metalworker, primarily interested in forging, trying to figure out how a piece was formed is hard enough without being miss-identified regarding process. Many "forged" projects have hidden MIG, TIG, or arc welds…we need to know this, if we are to truly understand and appreciate what we are looking at. Unfortunately, this information and more is not honestly presented, or it is even hidden for whatever purpose. Even honestly stating that a piece is "forged and fabricated" does not go far enough, as we need to know what was forged, and what was fabricated. Example: How does a student know if a leaf is forged, cast, stamped, or by means of repousse' merely by looking at it?
On another note, in a competition, it isn't fair to one who primarily forged something to be competing with another project that is mostly fabricated, but entered as mostly or wholly forged. In this case we are comparing and judging radically different processes, and nobody truly wins.
Without clearly defined submissions or entries, the integrity of the publication or competition may be compromised.
Example: In the image of the candlestick above, can you determine simply by looking at it whether it is 100% forged, 90% forged, or forged and fabricated? What do those terms (forged, fabricated, etc.) actually mean?
Potential solutions obviously involve honesty on the part of whomever is submitting the information. However an experienced review board could also determine whether a project passes the criterion for "forged" or falls more correctly into "fabricated", or "forged and fabricated." Further, demand to know what parts of the project were forged, what were fabricated, etc.
Perhaps categories could determine: A.) Period Forging ,100% forged (only forging processes including the nine forging fundamentals listed in #3 of the "Clarification notes" below) 2.) Modern Forging 90% to 99% forged 3.) Forged and Fabricated (Less than 90% forged.) Note: These are only suggestions, and could be redefined.
Other pertinent information would suggest, A.) Who designed the project? 2.) What determined the discipline(s) used? Certainly these clarification aspects could be defined even further and more clearly.
There also needs to be clear definitions regarding disciplines, i.e., 1.) Forging 2.) Fabricating 3.) Machining 4.) Casting 5.) Welding 6.) Etc.
Some might feel these distinctions are too picky. However, consider how many times you have asked the question, "How was that motif executed?", only to find out that the process used was not even close to what you had considered. You may have even been disappointed to learn that it involved no hand skills by the creator. We need to be more scrutinizing in how we present projects to others, so others may clearly understand and thereby learn.
"Example is not the main thing in influencing others, it is the only thing."- Albert Schweitzer
Summary: This is serious stuff.
To implement any of the above ideas and programs will take a dedicated force, and years to conceive, refine and finally establish. If it happens quickly one should question the integrity of the program.
For now we can agree that no existing organization:
A.) Caters well to a solely forging based member.
B.) Clearly distinguishes between forging, fabrication, period work, etc.
C.) Has a linear, progressive, and well-planned teaching program for forging.
D.) Insures the competency of instructors, teachers, or demonstrators.
E.) Has established a forging standard.
F.) Has attempted to establish achievement levels or status, based on an individual's accumulated knowledge and skill base.
Action: A new blueprint is needed to establish a new or existing organization that addresses the above issues.
An "Artisan's Assembly of Metalworkers" association likely would be widely accepted, with proper monitoring, and implementing the above thoughts and ideas. Again distinguishing between disciplines, is of the utmost importance. Also there will need to be solid leadership in the senior category, and likely the organization would not be of a non-profit status…and much much more, as discussed above.
The outline below is designed to begin the process of organizing these thoughts and ideas for whatever organization that realizes the value of such wisdom. (Note that the items are not listed in order of importance.)
Some clarification notes:
A.) This text has avoided the use of the word "blacksmith" as it does not clearly describe what one does, nor does it define a process. The word "blacksmithing" is not recognized by most dictionaries as a word, and also does not describe a process. Thus, neither word will be found in this text.
B.) The word "artisan" is used in this text to describe a creative metalworker. As one must be an artisan to be an artist, we are not excluding artists from this dialogue.
C.) The word "forge" and its derivatives define a unique discipline defined by primary processes of which there are nine fundamentals: 1.) Drawing down 2.) Upsetting 3.) Cutting (splitting, slitting, or surface embellishment) 4.) Bending 5.) Twisting 6.) Joinery (rivets, collars, lap joints, mortise and tenon, etc.) 7.) Punching 8.) Drifting 9.) Forge welding. The products created by forging use only these fundamentals to produce a piece in its entirety.
D.) The word "fabricate" and its derivatives define a discipline where forging is not used as the main process, where metal is fused by electric welding, and by use of catalog parts, i.e. cast or stamped, are employed.
E.) There may be a category of metalwork that employs both forged and fabricated disciplines, and thus will be denoted as "Forged and fabricated."
"Leadership and learning are indispensable of each other." – John F. Kennedy
for a 2015 "Artisans Assembly of Metalworkers"
I.) Define Vocabulary
A.) Forge 1.) Period forging 2.) Restoration 3.) Style 4.) Other categories
B.) Fabricate
C.) Etc.
II.) Categories/Departments
A.) Forged 100%
B.) Forged and fabricated (hybrid) 1.) Percent forged 2.) Percent fabricated
C.) Fabricated 100%
D.) Art/sculpture
E.) Period/Historical
F.) Restoration
G.) Decorative Art
H.) Level 1.) Beginner 2.) Amateur 3.) Seasoned professional 4.) Or?
I.) Organizational leadership panel
III.) Publication
A.) Good quality articles 1.) Pay for articles 2.) Regular seasoned contributors 3.) International communique 4.) Regional editors 5.) Leadership panel (accepts/rejects articles) 6.) Refuse folksy articles.
B.) High quality, professional quality images only.
C.) Editor must be of the mindset.
D.) Articles must declare specific criterion 1.) Material 2.) Process(es) 3.) Size x, y, and z 4.) Approx hours to complete 5.) Designer 6.) Category (see #II.) 7.) Finish 8.) Year made 9.) Creator's name(s) 10.) Level of metalworker based on experience 11.) Accept that all categories might not be addressed in every issue. a.) If a category/department is not addressed, say that "No report" or "No articl submitted for this department."
E.) Editor should seek authors for specific categories.
F.) Cover 1.) Chosen by leadership board (not by any one person, i.e the editor.) 2.) Must be from an article in current issue. 3.) Must be highly representative of a specific category/discipline.
G.) Advertising review committee.
IV.) Annual Member's Choice Awards".
A.) Awards for each category/discipline 1.) Gold, silver, bronze medals awarded
B.) Awards given for works shown in last year's publications only. 1.) Helps to insure quality articles and images are submitted 2.) Competition helps insure best works are represented in magazine.
C.) Annual awards banquet. 1.) Separate awards for special works.
D.) Awards announced through bulletins in creator's hometown.
E.) Online voting?
IV.) Develop Forging Standard
A.) Create before creating a forging curriculum.
B.) Establish committee to do so
V.) Develop a Forging Curriculum
A.) Teach fundamentals first.
B.) Teach stylistic, national, period, and process differences
C.) Have targets (levels of accomplishments.) 1.) Recognition of achievement.
VI.) Dues
A.) Dues should be significant to insure the best service to the membership
B.) Significant dues help to deter wishy-washy membership
VII.) Organization may not be a Non -Profit entity.
A.) Allows organization to pay for: 1.) Articles 2.) Board of Directors (justifies their time spent away from their business, and helps to insure board member works…no work, no pay.)
B.) Allows organization to write articles promoting business, products or entities.
VIII.) Board of Directors
A.) Must have a representative from each discipline/category.
B.) Will be paid for tenure
C.) President must be a seasoned professional
D.) Former presidents help guide newly elected presidents for one year.
E.) Limited terms
F.) Annual meetings 1.) Fall on same day every year 2.) Paid for by association a.) travel food, lodging, stipend.
IX.) Conferences
A.) Education Focus
B.) Concentrate on addressing skill levels
C.) Concentrate on categories/departments 1.) Period forging 2.) Restoration 3.) Design 4.) Others
D.) Location 1.) Different and rotating locations
E.) Demonstrators 1.) Chosen by leadership committee 2.) All expenses paid. 3.) Stipend 4.) International flavor
F.) Gallery
G.) Public involvement
H.) Auction
X.) Social Media
A.) Web-site
B.) Forums
C.) Discussion boards
XI.) Funding
A.) Dues 1.) Divisional fees a.) Beginner b.) Professional c.) Student d.) Small business
B.) Grants
C.) Patrons
D.) Benefactors (bequest)
E.) Event fees
F.) Workshops
XII.) Membership Empowerment
A.) Biennial survey
B.) Board responsiveness
C.) Membership forums 1.) Blog oriented 2.) Letters to the editor 3.) Complaints and solutions
D.) Review cycle of organization status.
XIII.) Structure
A.) Mission statement
B.) By-laws
C.) Procedures
D.) Infrastructure 1.) Publication(s) 2.) Technology a.0 e-mail b.) Web-site c.) Forums
(Conclusion of outline. Obviously, much needs to be added, massaged, and clarified.)
Conclusions "For the Good of the Craft"
Solid leadership from well seasoned artisans is essential for a truly successful metalworking organization. However the reality is this: If we expect leaders to lead, and to do so with vigor, likely they will need more of an incentive than simple "passion for the process." Compensating them for their work (i.e. articles, board membership, demonstrating, teaching, etc.) would be a win for all parties involved.
Create a forging standard to A.) Produce a forging curriculum B.) To establish achievement levels C.) To teach D.) To insure safety in the shop E.) To insure safety of the products E.) To potentially certify forging students and forging instructors.
The purpose of compiling this information is in response to the many who have shared their wisdom over the last 25 years or so. This text is put out there for any existing organization to adopt, dissect, or glean what they can from it. Perhaps some energetic individuals will rally and create an entirely new organization based on this content. In any event, it is hoped that those who care will review these thoughts and ideas in earnest, and some benefit will result for the good of the craft, the good of the students, and for general safety.
Any and all comments are appreciated regarding this text. Only reasonable comments will be published. Vulgar language and sophomoric comments will be deleted.
This text in no way indicates my attempt to launch a new organization, or to undermine any existing organizations. Rather, this labor is intended for the good of the various disciplines of metalworking.
Lastly, I resounding "Thank you" to all who contributed to this text.
Respectfully submitted,
Dan Nauman/Artisan-Designer- Owner/ Bighorn Forge, Inc.
February, 2015
(Note: Images used are intended solely as examples, and not intended for self-promotion.)
One Response to "A 2015 Blueprint for an "Artisan's Assembly of Metalworkers""
April 19, 2015 at 8:33 am
As usual a well written, researched and executed post – Thanks Dan!


text:
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Read more about the regulatory guidelines we follow, who to contact to access recycled water and where it's being used.
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text: Ph.D. Biology http://hdl.handle.net/10464/2238 2017-08-22T09:02:06Z The Fast Regulation of Photosynthesis in Diatoms: an inquiry into the physiological and physical origins of non-photochemical chlorophyll fluorescence quenching. http://hdl.handle.net/10464/5974 The Fast Regulation of Photosynthesis in Diatoms: an inquiry into the physiological and physical origins of non-photochemical chlorophyll fluorescence quenching. Derks, Allen Kimbell Diatoms are renowned for their robust ability to perform NPQ (Non-Photochemical Quenching of chlorophyll fluorescence) as a dissipative response to heightened light stress on photosystem II, plausibly explaining their dominance over other algal groups in turbulent light environs. Their NPQ mechanism has been principally attributed to a xanthophyll cycle involving the lumenal pH regulated reversible de-epoxidation of diadinoxanthin. The principal goal of this dissertation is to reveal the physiological and physical origins and consequences of the NPQ response in diatoms during short-term transitions to excessive irradiation. The investigation involves diatom species from different originating light environs to highlight the diversity of diatom NPQ and to facilitate the detection of core mechanisms common among the diatoms as a group. A chiefly spectroscopic approach was used to investigate NPQ in diatom cells. Prime methodologies include: the real time monitoring of PSII excitation and de-excitation pathways via PAM fluorometry and pigment interconversion via transient absorbance measurements, the collection of cryogenic absorbance spectra to measure pigment energy levels, and the collection of cryogenic fluorescence spectra and room temperature picosecond time resolved fluorescence decay spectra to study excitation energy transfer and dissipation. Chemical inhibitors that target the trans-thylakoid pH gradient, the enzyme responsible for diadinoxanthin de-epoxidation, and photosynthetic electron flow were additionally used to experimentally manipulate the NPQ response. Multifaceted analyses of the NPQ responses from two previously un-photosynthetically characterised species, Nitzschia curvilineata and Navicula sp., were used to identify an excitation pressure relief 'strategy' for each species. Three key areas of NPQ were examined: (i) the NPQ activation/deactivation processes, (ii) how NPQ affects the collection, dissipation, and usage of absorbed light energy, and (iii) the interdependence of NPQ and photosynthetic electron flow. It was found that Nitzschia cells regulate excitation pressure via performing a high amplitude, reversible antenna based quenching which is dependent on the de-epoxidation of diadinoxanthin. In Navicula cells excitation pressure could be effectively regulated solely within the PSII reaction centre, whilst antenna based, diadinoxanthin de-epoxidation dependent quenching was implicated to be used as a supplemental, long-lasting source of excitation energy dissipation. These strategies for excitation balance were discussed in the context of resource partitioning under these species' originating light climates. A more detailed investigation of the NPQ response in Nitzschia was used to develop a comprehensive model describing the mechanism for antenna centred non-photochemical quenching in this species. The experimental evidence was strongly supportive of a mechanism whereby: an acidic lumen triggers the diadinoxanthin de-epoxidation and protonation mediated aggregation of light harvesting complexes leading to the formation of quencher chlorophyll a-chlorophyll a dimers with short-lived excited states; quenching relaxes when a rise in lumen pH triggers the dispersal of light harvesting complex aggregates via deprotonation events and the input of diadinoxanthin. This model may also be applicable for describing antenna based NPQ in other diatom species. 2015-01-06T00:00:00Z Identification and characterization of a Catharanthus roseus mutant altered in monoterpenoid indole alkaloid biosynthesis http://hdl.handle.net/10464/5682 Identification and characterization of a Catharanthus roseus mutant altered in monoterpenoid indole alkaloid biosynthesis Thamm, Antje MK The Madagascar periwinkle [Catharanthus roseus (L.) G. Don] is a commercially important horticultural flower species and is the only source for several pharmaceutically valuable monoterpenoid indole alkaloids (MIAs), including the powerful antihypertensive ajmalicine and the antineoplastic agents vincristine and vinblastine. While biosynthesis of MIA precursors has been elucidated, conversion of the common MIA precursor strictosidine to MIAs of different families, for example ajmalicine, catharanthine or vindoline, remains uncharacterized. Deglycosylation of strictosidine by the key enzyme Strictosidine beta-glucosidase (SGD) leads to a pool of uncharacterized reaction products that are diverted into the different MIA families, but the downstream reactions are uncharacterized. Screening of 3600 EMS (ethyl methane sulfonate) mutagenized C. roseus plants to identify mutants with altered MIA profiles yielded one plant with high ajmalicine, and low catharanthine and vindoline content. RNA sequencing and comparative bioinformatics of mutant and wildtype plants showed up-regulation of SGD and the transcriptional repressor Zinc finger Catharanthus transcription factor (ZCT1) in the mutant line. The increased SGD activity in mutants seems to yield a larger pool of uncharacterized SGD reaction products that are channeled away from catharanthine and vindoline towards biosynthesis of ajmalicine when compared to the wildtype. Further bioinformatic analyses, and crossings between mutant and wildtype suggest a transcription factor upstream of SGD and ZCT1 to be mutated, leading to up-regulation of Sgd and Zct1. The crossing experiments further show that biosynthesis of the different MIA families is differentially regulated and highly complex. Three new transcription factors were identified by bioinformatics that seem to be involved in the regulation of Zct1 and Sgd expression, leading to the high ajmalicine phenotype. Increased cathenamine reductase activity in the mutant converts the pool of SGD reaction products into ajmalicine and its stereoisomer tetrahydroalstonine. The stereochemistry of ajmalicine and tetrahydroalstonine biosynthesis in vivo and in vitro was further characterized. In addition, a new clade of perakine reductase-like enzymes was identified that reduces the SGD reaction product vallesiachotamine in a stereo-specific manner, characterizing one of the many reactions immediately downstream of SGD that determine the different MIA families. This study establishes that RNA sequencing and comparative bioinformatics, in combination with molecular and biochemical characterization, are valuable tools to determine the genetic basis for mutations that trigger phenotypes, and this approach can also be used for identification of new enzymes and transcription factors. 2014-09-09T00:00:00Z HUMAN GENOME VARIATIONS AND EVOLUTION WITH A FOCUS ON THE ANALYSIS OF TRANSPOSABLE ELEMENTS http://hdl.handle.net/10464/5220 HUMAN GENOME VARIATIONS AND EVOLUTION WITH A FOCUS ON THE ANALYSIS OF TRANSPOSABLE ELEMENTS Ahmed, Musaddeque Genome sequence varies in numerous ways among individuals although the gross architecture is fixed for all humans. Retrotransposons create one of the most abundant structural variants in the human genome and are divided in many families, with certain members in some families, e.g., L1, Alu, SVA, and HERV-K, remaining active for transposition. Along with other types of genomic variants, retrotransponson-derived variants contribute to the whole spectrum of genome variants in humans. With the advancement of sequencing techniques, many human genomes are being sequenced at the individual level, fueling the comparative research on these variants among individuals. In this thesis, the evolution and functional impact of structural variations is examined primarily focusing on retrotransposons in the context of human evolution. The thesis comprises of three different studies on the topics that are presented in three data chapters. First, the recent evolution of all human specific AluYb members, representing the second most active subfamily of Alus, was tracked to identify their source/master copy using a novel approach. All human-specific AluYb elements from the reference genome were extracted, aligned with one another to construct clusters of similar copies and each cluster was analyzed to generate the evolutionary relationship between the members of the cluster. The approach resulted in identification of one major driver copy of all human specific Yb8 and the source copy of the Yb9 lineage. Three new subfamilies within the AluYb family – Yb8a1, Yb10 and Yb11 were also identified, with Yb11 being the youngest and most polymorphic. Second, an attempt to construct a relation between transposable elements (TEs) and tandem repeats (TRs) was made at a genome-wide scale for the first time. Upon sequence comparison, positional cross-checking and other relevant analyses, it was observed that over 20% of all TRs are derived from TEs. This result established the first connection between these two types of repetitive elements, and extends our appreciation for the impact of TEs on genomes. Furthermore, only 6% of these TE-derived TRs follow the already postulated initiation and expansion mechanisms, suggesting that the others are likely to follow a yet-unidentified mechanism. Third, by taking a combination of multiple computational approaches involving all types of genetic variations published so far including transposable elements, the first whole genome sequence of the most recent common ancestor of all modern human populations that diverged into different populations around 125,000-100,000 years ago was constructed. The study shows that the current reference genome sequence is 8.89 million base pairs larger than our common ancestor's genome, contributed by a whole spectrum of genetic mechanisms. The use of this ancestral reference genome to facilitate the analysis of personal genomes was demonstrated using an example genome and more insightful recent evolutionary analyses involving the Neanderthal genome. The three data chapters presented in this thesis conclude that the tandem repeats and transposable elements are not two entirely distinctly isolated elements as over 20% TRs are actually derived from TEs. Certain subfamilies of TEs themselves are still evolving with the generation of newer subfamilies. The evolutionary analyses of all TEs along with other genomic variants helped to construct the genome sequence of the most recent common ancestor to all modern human populations which provides a better alternative to human reference genome and can be a useful resource for the study of personal genomics, population genetics, human and primate evolution. 2014-02-19T00:00:00Z METHOXYPYRAZINES AND LADYBUG TAINT IN WINES http://hdl.handle.net/10464/5116 METHOXYPYRAZINES AND LADYBUG TAINT IN WINES Botezatu, Andreea Ioana Methoxypyrazines are aroma active compounds found in many wine varietals. These compounds can be of either grape-derived nature or can be introduced into wines via Coccinellidae beetles. Regardless of their origin, methoxypyrazines can have either a beneficial role for wine quality, contributing to the specificity of certain wine varietals (Cabernet sauvignon, Cabernet franc, Sauvignon blanc) or a detrimental role, particularly at higher concentrations, resulting in overpowering green, unripe and herbaceous notes. When methoxypyrazines of exogenous nature are responsible for these unpleasant characteristics, wines are considered to be affected by what is generally known as Ladybug taint (LBT). This is work is a collection of studies seeking to create a sensitive analytical method for the detection and quantification of methoxypyrazines in wines; to investigate the role of different Coccinellidae species in the tainting of wines with LBT and identify the main compounds in ladybug tainted wines responsible for the typical green herbaceous characteristics; to determine the human detection threshold of 2,5-dimethyl-3-methoxypyrazine in wines as well as investigate its contribution to the aroma of wines; and finally to survey methoxypyrazine concentrations in a large set of wines from around the world. In the first study, an analytical method for the detection and quantitation of methoxypyrazines in wines was created and validated. The method employs multidimensional Gas Chromatography coupled with Mass Spectrometry to detect four different methoxypyrazines (2,5-dimethyl-3-methoxypyrazine, isobutyl methoxypyrazine, secbutyl methoxypyrazine and isopropyl methoxypyrazines) in wine. The low limits of detection for the compounds of interest, improved separation and isolation capabilities, good validation data, as well as the ease of use recommend this method as a good alternative to the existing analytical methods for methoxypyrazine detection in wine. In the second study the capacity of two Coccinellidae species, found in many wine regions – Harmonia axyridis and Coccinella septempunctata - to taint wines is evaluated. Coccinella septempunctata is shown to be as capable as causing LBT in wines as Harmonia axyridis. Dimethyl methoxypyrazine, previously thought to be of exogenous nature only (from Coccinellidae haemolymph), is also detected in control (untainted) wines. The main odor active compounds in LBT wines are investigated through Aroma Extract Dilution Assay. These compounds are identified as isopropyl methoxypyrazine, sec- and iso- butyl methoxypyrazine. In the third study, the human detection threshold for dimethyl methoxypyrazine in wine is established to be 31 ng/L in the orthonasal modality and 70 ng/L retronasally. After wines spiked with various amounts of dimethyl methoxypyrazine are evaluated sensorally, dimethyl methoxypyrazine causes significant detrimental effects to wine aroma at a concentration of 120 ng/L. The final study examines methoxypyrazine (dimethyl methoxypyrazine, isopropyl methoxypyrazine, secbutyl methoxypyrazine and isobutyl methoxypyrazine) concentrations in 187 wines from around the world. Dimethyl methoxypyrazine is detected in the majority of the red wines tested. Data are interpreted through statistical analyses. A new measure for predicting greenness/herbaceousness in wines - methoxypyrazine "total impact factor" is proposed. 2013-11-05T00:00:00Z


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About MeI graduated with Communication Studies Major at Long Beach State. Right now I'm looking to build up a solid portfolio, and learn as much as I can. I'm South Korean, born over there but raised here. I'm originally from the Bay Area, but moved down to socal for school. Basketball is a big hobby of mine. I really enjoy meeting new, fun people to work with. I've done photoshoots and runway shows. I have one medium tattoo on my upper back. If you want to shoot message me! I'm always looking to work with new people and open to new ideas.
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A/N: Stop! Before you go any further, it is imperative that you read all of the preceding books in this series in order to know what's going on. For all those who are returning, hello again. I welcome you to the latest installment in the Tamer's Requiem series. As always. Read. Review. And most importantly, enjoy.
Disclaimer: I don't own Digimon.
Tamer's Requiem, Book Five: Return of Shadows
A Digimon Tamers story by: Crazyeight
Chapter: 1
Light shone down on the forest and the sound of birds chirping filled the air. High above in the sky, a blue sphere with antennae-like disks attached to its surface sent beams of pink energy sweeping across the landscape. Yet despite this oddity, there was no sense of urgency in the sounds of the birds, and in the forest below, not a single animal was left disturbed.
For the digital world, peace of any kind was a rarity. Of late, it had become an increasingly prized luxury that few could hope to afford.
Nine golden tails whipped irritably through the air as the Kyubimon, sitting on a cliff overlooking the landscape, turned her head up towards the digital sun. She glared at it for a moment and turned her gaze away. Nothing but an endless stretch of trees barely hidden by a gray mist greeted her. The kitsune digimon closed her eyes and sighed heavily.
"So bored," she murmured under her breath. "Nothing but chores to do and gray mist to look at every day. Day in, day out. Same old routine."
A silver-furred face came to the vulpine's mind and the corners of her mouth dipped a little bit as a feeling of melancholy settled over her mind.
Things used to be so much more interesting when Urocyomon was here. Every day, watching him being made to clean the baths and teasing him about it… Kyubimon repressed a smile as she remembered the way the silver-furred fox would get upset. Soon enough however, her melancholy returned in full force. How long has it been now since he and Kuzuhamon left? Silver never bothered to order a search for either of them…
The Kyubimon's tails swished again in an agitated manner. She was not to question the decisions of the Seer Council, least of all Silver, the acting leader ever since their 'Mother' had been deleted in battle with the Royal Knights. To do so was…unseemly. They saw further and more than any of the lower-level digimon that were in training.
"I need to do something," she mused aloud, getting to her feet.
"In that case," chuckled a sinister, feminine voice in front of her, "you can take a problem off my hands."
Kyubimon's eyes flew open and instinctively the tips of her tails flared to life as she caught sight of the red-haired LadyDevimon standing before her. Smirking, the viral Ultimate merely extended one arm and trapped the kitsune's neck between her long, razor-sharp nails.
"Don't move," LadyDevimon smirked. "That is, unless you want to go around looking as though you had the worst case of mange ever. I could care less. In fact, I think I would enjoy seeing it from your kind."
Kyubimon narrowed her eyes and swallowed noticeably. She resisted the urge to look at the Ultimate's hair. It was an unnerving shade of red—quite the departure from the usual color that the LadyDevimon species had.
"What are you doing here?" she asked, steadying herself.
"Like I said. I have something that you can take off my hands."
Kyubimon furrowed her brow and glanced off to LadyDevimon's free arm. Only 'free' wasn't quite the right word for it. Tucked within its crook was a large orange-colored dinosaur with red training bracers while her claws held what was decidedly a human wearing a tattered, red jacket.
"I'm…afraid I don't understand," began Kyubimon, feeling somewhat confused.
"Don't worry," sneered LadyDevimon. "You don't have to know anything, mutt. Just take care of this human and…" LadyDevimon made a disgusted expression. "…heal them. That is all you need to do."
LadyDevimon opened her claws and parted her arm, unceremoniously dropping her two charges to the ground. Quickly retracting her claws, she turned around and leapt into the air, spreading her wings. Within seconds, she was far away, disappearing into the mists, leaving one extremely confused Kyubimon to gape at her retreating form.
"What…just happened?" asked Kyubimon, confused. Did that Virus just…spare me?
Something about that did not seem right, and yet here she was, alive and well.
She glanced down at the unconscious human and digimon. They both looked the worse for wear—almost as though they had been through a hellish experience if the soot covering their bodies was any indication.
Should I bring them back to the temple? she wondered, feeling a spark of fear go through her. After a moment of deliberation, she walked over to the human and lifted him up by the jacket with her jaws.
LadyDevimon glared at the horizon as it sped past her, disgust and loathing filling her black heart and lashing at her like a whip. She wanted to rage and destroy at the landscape around her, but she knew that she mustn't, as such activity would only draw the attention of the Seer Council, and she wanted to be as far away from her as quickly as possible so that she could rejoin Takato.
The image of the brown-haired boy filled her mind, and she gritted her fangs together. The urge to destroy increased in intensity, and just as before she fiercely repressed it.
Something is wrong with me, she thought to herself. There was once a time where I would have simply slaughtered the digimon and taken the human as a pet for however long he amused me. Instead, I simply dumped them both at the doorstep of the Seer Council—the Seer Council of all places!
A memory of the boy's own crimson eyes—somehow fiercer than and more violent than her own—came to mind and she clenched her claws together tightly.
"You promised…" came the words from the boy. They set made digital blood boil.
That human…drives me insane sometimes. Narrowing her blood-red eyes, she urged more speed out of her wings. She had to leave this level of the digital world as soon as possible.
A cry was loosed from Gallantmon's lips as his burning form impacted with the ground with devestating force. In spite of the pain, the Royal Knight's mind remained firmly in control of his actions and wasting no time he rolled to the side, throwing off his cape as the fire of the dragon's Megiddo Flame consumed it utterly. Getting back to his feet, Gallantmon had barely enough time to register the dragon's charge before leaping backwards, narrowly avoiding getting crushed by the behemoth. The maneuver was not without its cost however. In spite of the Knight's speed, the dragon proved to be faster still, and with a quick twist of its body, the Megidramon tail portion swept outwards and crashed brutally into him, sending him rocketing away like a comet. This time there was no rolling with the blow when he crashed back to the earth. Pain exploded through every part of his body as armor was bent inwards, and Gallantmon felt something warm and wet burst forth from his mouth.
"Takato!" Guilmon exclaimed, feeling the pain in his partner's body.
A shadow fell over the battered knight, and a second later, all words and sight were cut off for the both of them.
Pain erupted in every fiber of their being as metal plates bent inwards and digital bones snapped and broke under the intense weight that bore down upon them. Gallantmon opened his mouth to scream, but no sound came out. No air was left to help him.
All at once, the light began to fade from his vision, and a strange, frightening feeling of weightlessness fell over him. Panicking, Takato tried to force himself to move, but his body refused to respond. Instead the feeling of weightlessness increased, and with it, the sense of pain that surged through his body began to disappear.
"No…" he found himself whispering, continuing to struggle. "I…can't…can't lose here. I've got to…get back…to… the…others…" Takato gritted his teeth together, making one final push against the darkness that continued to drown the light around him. It was, unfortunately useless. He could no longer feel the presence of his own partner. Were they separated? What happened? What was going on?
The questions went around and around, endlessly chasing themselves as he fought to get the light back.
"Guilmon… Rika…Henry… I can't…let…them dow…n…"
In the end, the shadows took hold of him, and all of his resistance faded with the last of the light.
"This is a unique case…"
The words only barely reached Takato's ears, and slowly, carefully he opened his eyes. A world of dark, swirling grays greeted him, and Takato resisted the urge to scratch his head in confusion. The scene before him was very different from where he had been just scant seconds ago.
"Where am I?" he asked aloud. For some reason though, the question didn't seem very important. He himself felt as though he were detached from his body. A sense of exhaustion pervaded every fiber of his being and, almost willingly, he basked in it. But only for a moment.
"Guilmon," he found his lips saying, and he craned his head around him, searching desperately for his crimson-scaled partner. No sign of him greeted his eyes, and Takato felt worry bubble up in his heart.
"Indeed, he is a unique case," spoke another voice from the darkness. "It is not every day that a human enters the shadow of digital death. First Kurata and now…this one."
"He is a destroyer in his own right too…"
"Who's there?" asked Takato, shifting in his place. He quickly found himself spinning slightly from the motion, causing him to realize that he had been floating in midair.
"Regardless of whether he has caused devastation or not, his heart is to be judged in accordance to the laws of this world. The scales will determine where he goes."
Air warped in front of Takato, and suddenly a being—a digimon—materialized before him. It had a dog-shaped head, long-necked with black fur. Golden wings flexed from his back, running the length of his long, thickly-shaped arms. The style of his dress made Takato think of ancient Egypt and instantly a memory came to mind.
I've seen him somewhere before… he mused, frowning slightly. On a card I think. Anubismon?
The digimon raised one hand, revealing a bronze item. It had a thin handle that rose out of the digimon's hand, and a beam sat just shy of its tip. Two bronze, dish-like items descended from the beam, attached by thin chains.
A scale? wondered Takato curiously. "Um…" Takato looked away from the object and up at the digimon. "Hey, can you help me? My friends are in trouble and I really have to help them."
The digimon raised its free hand. A bright, blue light briefly flared in its palm before dying down, revealing a feather. The digimon placed the feather on the scale and then turned its gaze up towards Takato expectantly. The boy furrowed his brow worriedly.
"Um… Wha…what do you want?" The question slipped out of his mouth and he immediately wanted to slap himself for a dope. How could he know that the digimon wanted anything from him? For all he knew it probably wanted to look at him or something.
Not that I'm really much to look at, Takato thought. Well, except maybe to laugh at… What am I talking about? I've got to get out of here and help the others! They need m—!
Takato doubled over suddenly as pain racked his body. His form blurred, causing the digimon to tilt his head to one side out of curiosity. After several seconds, Takato's body stabilized, leaving him breathing heavily.
Wha…what was that? he wondered, trying to catch his breath.
"Fascinating," spoke a new voice, female this time. "An incomplete record?"
"Resurrection," pronounced the digimon before Takato. "But the scales must still be balanced."
Raising his free hand, the digimon reached out and touched Takato's chest. At once, a ball of light materialized in his palm. The voice from the shadow giggled.
"So small. Perhaps it will weigh less than the feather this time around, Anubismon."
Anubismon did not say anything, instead bringing the small sphere of light to the scale sitting across from the feather. Takato watched it, clutching at his chest. He felt so…tired. He could no longer say anything—nor do anything save for watching the act and see how it played out.
The ball of blue light settled on the scale, and it tipped ever so slightly, swinging up and then down, the feather on its opposite mate doing likewise. The ball flashed white several times before releasing a fragmented stream of light into the scale. The dish tipped below the feather and then stayed there.
"It has been decided," pronounced Anubismon, and he stepped back. "You may have him, Ammimon."
A dark, massive, animal-like figure suddenly loomed from out of the darkness, and Takato jerked backwards, the instinct to flee tearing through his mind, overriding the exhaustion that he had felt earlier. It did not matter in the end, for the beast's cavernous jaws quickly overtook him and slammed shut, leaving Takato once again alone in the darkness. Gravity soon took hold of him, and he found himself plummeting downwards.
"What's going on?" he shouted, but his words were lost to the searing cold winds that whipped at his body. A new light began to emerge, revealing a world of gray beneath him—and extremely far away from him.
Worse yet, that very same far-away ground was rapidly surging towards him.
Takato had only a few, brief seconds to think of his friends before he struck the ground with a bone-sickening crunch, and then, once more, darkness overwhelmed his senses.
Takato was jolted roughly awake as he was jerked around. He didn't have time to take a look around him, as within short order the golden, desert ground that he dangled above quickly rushed away, causing Takato's heart to nearly leap out of his chest.
There followed a low, guttural chortle from above him, and Takato suddenly became aware that he was being carried by something. He shifted his head and looked up at a face that he thought he would never see again, and his eyes widened in complete and utter shock.
A golden mane flowed out from a solid, bronze-furred face, and crystal-clear blue eyes stared out at him with what looked to be amusement. Great muscular arms shifted against a powerfully built chest and a smile drew across the Champion level digimon's face.
"What's the matter, kid?" asked the Leomon. "You look like you've seen a ghost."
Takato moved his mouth to speak, only for his words to get lost as they came to a hard landing. Gasping, Takato looked around him, finding more and more of the lion digimon coming to a landing around them.
And chief among them, the powerful, kingly form of the bestial, gold and red-furred SaberLeomon, as he too landed. In his jaws hung the limp form of Akihiro Kurata, helpless.
"Wha…what's going on?" asked Takato, suddenly finding it hard to think.
The Leomon that held Takato tightened his grip around him.
"Your judgment," he replied.
A/N: It took me a while to get back to this. Life decided to throw a number of curveballs my way. Some involving school, and some involving life of a personal nature. Also, I had to go back and reread various bits and pieces of the fic to remember all the major important plot points (and some of the non-major ones as well). This fic will work to look at Marcus and the 'Other/Dead/Not Takato's' (to borrow some of his present identities via readers) perspectives while continuing to develop the plot from Revival. This chapter especially looked at what happened to Takato following his 'death' in 'Less than Human' and how he got to be where we found him in 'Revival'. We'll be looking into what he's been doing in the Dark Ocean since then as well.
Concerning Anubismon and Ammimon, I based what happened off of what I read concerning what happened to a person after dying. According to Egyptian mythology, a dead person's soul would be weighed against a feather, and if it was found to be heavier, than he/she would be eaten by a monster, Ammit, and become a 'restless spirit forever'.
For the time being, sadly, chapters will be relatively short compared to my previous work in the Tamer's Requiem series, and updates will be slow, due to final exams and projects for school. Nevertheless, I will try to update when I can and as soon as I can.
Until next chapter. :P


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Sugihara was a kensai monk of the Spider Clan and member of the Order of the Spider who was appointed in the Colonies.
Weapons Edit
Sugihara wielded a trademark specialized blades on his fists, like the talons of a fearsome predator. They suited his naturalistic fighting style. [1]
Colonies Edit
In 1198 Sugihara was sent to the Colonies, and he did not see true fight until one year later. Under the command of Daigotsu Misaki they seized a Ruhmalite temple, and captives were held for questioning by Unicorn members of the White Guard. [1]
External Links Edit
- Sugihara (Embers of War)
|This Spider Clan related article is a stub. That means that it has been started, but is incomplete. You can help by adding to the information here.


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Redditor Kjkemme has seen other Call of Duty fans attempt to recreate Perk-a-Cola for the real world, but obviously wasn't impressed and decided to tackle the job yet again.
As you'll see in the images after the jump, they were recreated right down to the nutrition labels and presented by the undead hand of Kjkemme's sister. There's no word on taste, but my guess is that they will pack the caffeine punch necessary to fend off a zombie attack.


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