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"Well, big brother," Johnny sighed, "We did it again."
Scott smiled, "You mean you did it again, little brother. This is a first for me," he said smugly.
"Pftt, it's your fault we're late this time, big brother! Well, yours and Rachel Fairchild's..." he grinned, winking at his older, wiser and now screwed brother.
As they approached the yard, Johnny suddenly looked really worried. "Jeez, Scott what do you figure the old man'll do?"
Scott's right shoulder hitched. "Honestly, I don't know Johnny; but I have an inclination what she might do."
Both young men looked towards the entrance of the hacienda and flinched.
"Maria." Johnny whispered softly. "She's pretty mean with that damned wooden spoon, ain't she" Unconsciously, he rubbed his rear-end.
Scott nodded. He had to agree. Marie could be quite formidable when the mood took her; and she could be brutal with her weapon of choice when she chose to use it. He took a moment to glance at the arched window and spied Murdoch standing hands on hips looking like he was primed for bear. He could almost see the steam coming from his father's ears and quickly averted his eyes, the sweat building at the back of his neck.
Turning to Johnny, he gestured with a single nod of his head in the direction of the window and whispered, "Don't look now, but Murdoch's staring right at us, little brother."
Johnny reacted like someone being told "don't look down" when standing on a high cliff: his head swung toward the window, and he immediately winced. Murdoch looked as if he could chew a full grown tree and spit toothpicks. Quickly, he averted his eyes, dipping his head in his usual fashion. He exhaled; a long quavering sigh. "Shit Boston," he murmured. "Don't suppose it's too late to run?" Just in case Scott might jump at the chance, he positioned himself more solidly in the saddle.
Scott laughed. It was a sad sound.
Murdoch had stormed out into the front portico, there to 'greet' his boys. Coming in at a slow walk, they dismounted and reluctantly handed off their horses to waiting hands; their feet dragging as they slowly approached their obviously irate father.
As usual, Johnny was the first to speak; not liking the silence that greeted him or the glare.
"Hey, Pa," he greeted sheepishly, "Nice evenin' huh?" He grimaced as he felt a single trail of sweat drop down the side of his face; blinking and taking a single step back when he felt the thunderous roar of Murdoch's voice hit him squarely in the face. The man's breath was pure fire!
"Where the hell have you two been? No, wait; don't answer that. I already know. You've both been into town haven't you?" Again he didn't wait for an answer. "Had you finished your assigned chores?"
Both heads shook in unison, as if joined by a single, invisible thread operated by a skilled puppeteer. The whispered "no's" came in synch.
"No? Then tell me..., 'BOYS' ..." he emphasized the word to convey how he felt, looking directly at Scott, whom he held responsible for this latest bit of mischief. "Why the hell did you leave you're assigned work duties to go into town?" he bellowed.
Scott looked suitably ashamed because he knew in his heart he'd behaved irresponsibly and had been a bad influence on Johnny.
"I'm sorry sir, we lost track of time."
However, no sooner had he finished speaking when his younger, wilder and definitely more insane brother threw caution to the wind, and began grasping at straws. "Look, Murdoch...it was like this...I was real hot and I just kinda mentioned how we could sure use a cold beer." He grinned full out, the big smile that almost always worked; his nose wrinkling as he rambled on. "You know, warm water just wasn't doing it for me so...now, it was only a suggestion mind, but well ol' Boston here, well..."
Rolling his eyes, Scott took off his hat and swung it at his brother's head. "So I ," he interrupted..."
"Him," Johnny grinned, pointing.
Scott speared his brother with a look. "I suggested we go into Green River for that nice cool beer he was talking about. We'd all but finished our chores, with only a small bit left to do, and -- if you remember, sir --" he chanced a quick glance at his father, "you did ask me at some point this week, to go into town to deal with the little matter at the bank." He thumped his own chest, pleased with himself that he'd used the bank as a valid reason for the trip into town. "I simply decided to kill two birds with one stone," he raised his right hand, displaying the appropriate number of fingers, "the business at the bank, and the cold beer."
Right now, Scott was feeling pretty smug. Murdoch had made it clear he could go when it suited him and -- after a long day working with Johnny -- he had decided it had suited him to go this very afternoon. The fact that he'd chosen his little brother to accompany him might not have been the smartest idea he'd had all week, but in the end his decision had achieved two goals: Johnny had gotten his needs taken care of, which meant there would be no covert trip into town mid-week, and he had managed to sort out the problem with the bank.
Johnny was twitching on the spot nervously; hoping to God Murdoch would buy what Scott was saying, and stop staring at the top of his head. He hated it when the Old Man did that.
Still, even if they were in trouble; it had been worth it. He'd never given the time he'd spent with Maggie, 'the new girl' , a whole lot of thought, relying on big brother to keep an eye on the clock; but for once Scott had been preoccupied himself.
'Rachel Fairchild,' Johnny thought frowning. All she had to do, apparently, was simply wiggle a finger at big brother and the man was gone. 'What is it,' Johnny reflected, 'about that woman?' His eyes narrowed. 'Any way you cut it,' he decided, 'she's the real reason we're late. Yep. All of this. Definitely Rachel Fairchild's fault.'
He tapped a single finger against his thigh. 'She made Scott late,' in his mind he was counting now, 'which made me late,' the second finger joined the other, a third finger hovering. 'Which made us both late for supper.'
Not that he was crazy enough to tell his old man it was some saloon girl -- well, two saloon girls -- that had made them late for supper. 'Shit!' The three fingers joined the other digits, and all five began fiddling with his conchos.
All the thinking was making Johnny dizzy. In the end, he realized, it didn't matter who was at fault. The point was they were late, very late, and about to receive a hearty lecture from their old man. They had broken one of the rules, Murdoch's rules, and -- he had no doubt -- as punishment would be assigned a whole new list of the shittiest chores on the ranch; never mind the painful reminder they'd catch from Maria for not showing the proper respect to the Patr ó n .
Shit. Maria had a bigger list of rules than the Old Man.
Then, like sunshine, the smile came again; the one that made him look cocky and twelve years old, and one that almost certainly lit Murdoch's fire, well at least stoked it! Never-the-less, he couldn't suppress it, despite the fact Maria was now standing in front of Murdoch, tapping her foot and wielding her wooden spoon like a weapon. With the grace of a ballet dancer he skipped skillfully around the woman and came face to face with his irate parent.
"Pa." he tried again.
"Don't you Pa me, boy." Murdoch chided.
"Aw, hell Pa, you're always sayin' I gotta do as I'm told, right?" he wheeled with all the innocence of a twelve year old.
Murdoch nodded, a frown appearing as he waited for more.
"Well," he smirked, jerking a thumb in Scott's direction, "I minded him to the letter."
Scott rolled his eyes again. "Of course you did, little brother."
He shot Scott a cheeky grin, "Yep, told me I had'ta go with him, and we all know how you've been raggin' on at me to do as Scott says."
He actually had the gall to laugh.
"Then he said, he wanted a nice cool beer, said I should have one too. And," he declared with all the wisdom he could muster. "Who am I to argue, huh?"
The smile blossomed fully, immediately changing into a deep fearful frown when he saw his old man take a single step forward. He quickly finished his argument with, "A man has needs, ya know." Sulking now, he took several steps back.
"Is that right?" Murdoch turned to Scott now, noticing his usually 'good' son actually looked ill. "Is that right Scott?"
Scott nodded, "Some of it is, sir," he muttered, shaking his head at his little brother's audacity.
Murdoch pinned Johnny with a particularly harsh glare. " You get yourself into a bath and get cleaned up." He turned to son number one, "And you join me in my study." With that he marched off into the house.
Johnny immediately turned to his brother and whooped. "Whooee brother, looks like you're finally gonna get your ass beat. 'Bout time to if you ask me..." he griped, letting out a shrill yelp when Maria popped him on the ass with her wooden spoon, hard. Twice!
Spinning around he faced the woman, "Hey!! What's that for?" he rubbed. "You heard, not my fault, not this time. That ain't fair Ma..."
Her response was to raise the offending weapon again. "Go, now! Ahora!" she added reverting to Spanish and pointing in the direction of the bath house.
He didn't wait to be told again.
Scott inched passed the woman, making sure his buttocks were away from her reach at all times. "Maria," he said simply, doffing his hat.
Murdoch was sitting at his desk, silhouetted against the large arch window at his back. He was writing something in his ever growing journal a smile briefly appearing as he read some recent inserts. There hadn't been a week, 'hell' the man thought hardly a day where Johnny hadn't gotten into trouble but Scott...the boy was the epitome of good manners, etiquette and charm; respectful and obedient too, and certainly not insolent when pulled up, unlike his younger, hotheaded, wilder brother.
'Opposites; the pair of them, in every way, yet I love them both equally,' Murdoch reflected. 'Johnny is so full of piss and vinegar, a bit like me', he thought sheepishly, smiling to himself. Johnny had been lacking in adult guidance, something he was trying to make up for but Scott had had the benefit of adult guidance in abundance. He stopped writing when he heard the knock.
"Come." He said leaning back in his chair.
"Sir." Scott said entering the room to stand straight backed in front of his father, as if he were making a report to a General.
"I prefer to stand, sir," was Scott's direct but respectful reply.
'And here I was thinking he was the easier of the two' . Murdoch thought shaking his head. Calmly and quietly he said, "And, my son, I would like you to sit; unless of course you want to make an issue of it...do you Scott?" he challenged.
Scott thought about it for only a heartbeat and smiling, relented. "No sir, I most definitely do not." He slipped into his customary chair in front of the desk.
Murdoch clasped his hands together and leaned forwards. "You do know it wasn't the best decision you made today, don't you, Scott?"
Scott nodded. "Yes sir, I think I've come to that conclusion myself."
Murdoch did a good job of suppressing a smile. 'You're supposed to be an example for your brother. I rely on you, Scott, to lead Johnny in a responsible direction. Am I wrong to do that, to depend on you?"
The blond shook his head. "No, sir."
There was a creaking sound as Murdoch came forward in his chair and picked up his pipe. "You and I both know what kind of life he's led before coming home. He's been wild for a long time, Scott. Aren't we both trying to teach him a different way? Don't we both want what's best for him?"
Scott sighed. "Yes sir, of course. I'm sorry. I realize I shouldn't have suggested a trip into town. But I really hadn't intended staying so late, sir. It's just that...well we..." He corrected himself, "I lost track of time.
"It won't happen again sir," he pledged.
"You lost track of time, or your brother refused to leave when you asked him and held you up? Which one was it, Scott?" Murdoch greatly suspected his elder son was once again covering for his delinquent brother.
"I lost track of time, sir." His chin dipped against his chest as he studied his clasped hands. "I was...occupied...not paying attention to the time. Like I said, it was my fault, and it won't happen again." And he meant it. If they ever did go into town again he'd make damned sure they were back in time for supper!
"Very well. Since you're taking full responsibility for what happened," his eyes warmed for the briefest of moments; he hadn't expected Scott to do anything less. "Then I can't punish Johnny for something you did Scott; so you leave me no choice but to punish you."
Scott eyes narrowed and he stared hard at his father. "Yes, sir," he managed, swallowing. Never had he imagined being in this position with Murdoch.
"Will you please follow me." Murdoch got up and opened the French doors and started to walk towards the barn.
Again Scott swallowed. He wasn't sure if he could handle the humiliation of a whipping from his father, especially since he was twenty five and long past the age where he felt he needed that kind of discipline; but still he dutifully followed in his father's wake.
Murdoch was very glad he was slightly ahead of his son because he was finding it hard to hide the grin that was forming. "Do you think you deserve to be whipped son?" Murdoch asked, a glint in his eyes.
"I honestly don't know, sir." Scott replied. His mind was in a whirl. "I do know I was a poor example for my little brother and for that I am truly sorry." He sighed. "But if you feel I deserve to be punished in such a manner, then I will endeavor to take my punishment like a... man ." He emphasized the last word; hoping Murdoch would take the hint. "I will also have a talk with Johnny to explain that I was very, very wrong, sir."
Murdoch smiled. There it was; the difference between man and boy. Although Scott was a grown man, he was truly repentant and willing to take responsibility for his actions; just as he was willing to take whatever punishment Murdoch meted out for his transgression. It was a lesson Johnny had yet to learn.
A similar trip with Johnny across the courtyard would have been an entirely different experience. Murdoch knew he would have had to drag the boy cursing and kicking to the barn; and then held him in place. Johnny would have been insolent and downright arrogant to boot, until he felt the sting of his father's belt on his backside and only then would he reluctantly relent and pretend to be sorry. The boy could be such a stubborn little shit!
Murdoch stopped and turned around to put both hands on his son's shoulders. "I've no intention of beating you, son. I want to thank you for your apology and for your understanding concerning Johnny. I'm glad Johnny has you for a big brother." He smiled. "He's a lucky boy. I know, on the whole you're a very good influence on him. Keep up the good work son, huh?" He said cuffing Scott gently on the jaw and smiling now.
They were in the barn now and he made a sweeping motion with his hand over the stalls. "After dinner you will do extra chores and give Jim and Walt a break from mucking out after the bad weather the other day. You'll also see to the horses as well, Scott, and Johnny will be joining you. Is that clear?"
Scott nodded. "Yes, sir."
"Oh, and son, you'll not be going into town for the next two weeks. I need to show Johnny you'll be treated no differently when you break the rules. Does that seem fair?" he smiled.
Scott nodded. "Yes, sir." He risked a smile. "And when he asks why I didn't get my tail beat?" he asked.
"I'll tell him it was because you were genuine in your apology, Scott; because it's the truth and it's something he needs to learn."
Again Scott nodded. "Do you want me to speak to Johnny as well, sir?"
Murdoch shook his head. He turned to head back for the house. "No, son. I'm going to have a talk with him right now, if you don't mind."
"Not at all, father."
The term of endearment made Murdoch stop in his tracks and turn to face his older son once more. "You're a decent young man, Scott; and a good big brother to Johnny. I couldn't have asked for better. Harlan did a good job with you, son."
Scott's eyes went wide. It was the first time Murdoch had ever said anything even remotely positive regarding his Grandfather: in fact, Murdoch rarely mentioned the man at all. "Thank you, father, for that acknowledgment. I appreciate the gesture." Scott held out his hand for his father to shake and instead found himself in his father's tight embrace.
"There isn't a day I don't thank God for the gift He gave me when he brought you boys home, Scott." He smiled, patting the young man's back.
"Despite our mischief, sir?" Scott muffled into Murdoch's shirt, his eyes flashing with the same kind of mischief Johnny often displayed as he lifted his head.
Murdoch laughed and took the opportunity to swat Scott, just once, on the backside; eliciting a painful grunt from his elder son. "Yes," he laughed, "Despite your mischief. Now, go! Get ready for dinner." He had taken his pipe out of his pocket and was refilling the bowl.
"Yes, sir!" Scott grinned, and turned towards the house.
"Oh, and Scott? Send Johnny to my study, will you?"
The young man frowned feeling a need to protect his little brother. "You're not going to beat him are you, sir? Because it really was my fault and..."
Murdoch chuckled. He so loved the way Scott was inclined to protect his younger brother. It seemed to come naturally to the young man. "No, son, I'm not planning on it; but it does depend on him, on his attitude. I am, however, going to give him a stern lecture."
Scott frowned. "Sir?"
"If you told Johnny to jump into a deep swirling river, would he?"
"No, sir, I don't suppose he would," Scott smiled, knowing where his father was going.
"Good, Scott. I'm glad you understand."
That evening dinner was a quiet affair with Scott contemplating what his father had said and done; and Johnny pouting over the lecture he had received in spite of the fact -- as far as he was concerned -- Scott was the one who was at fault. The boy's insistence he was totally innocent and his unwillingness to listen to anything his father had said, had almost earned him a session in the barn. He had backed down, though, the minute Murdoch stood up and pointed towards the door, finally shutting up and at least pretending to listen. Not that he had like what he was hearing.
Johnny had faked tiredness immediately after the lecture and had stomped off to bed, sulking at all the extra chores he'd been assigned and at the newest ranch restrictions that were added to the ones he already had. As he disappeared up the stairs, he was muttering loud enough for everyone to hear now -- by the time he was finally allowed off the leash -- he'd probably be so damned old he wouldn't even remember why he was going to a saloon in the first place or what to do when he got there. His parting shot had been particularly amusing. Probably have to walk to town, too, what with Barranca grown old and dead!
Barranca was only five years old.
Scott had a quiet word with his father after Johnny had gone off to bed. They talked till midnight, father and son; building new bridges that only served to bring them even closer; their conversation mostly centered on Johnny and how he was coming along. Scott finally stretched and got to his feet.
"I'll think I'll head on up to bed, Murdoch." Scott said. "I'll check on Johnny; you know make sure he's asleep.
Murdoch smiled, and knew he'd also check up on the boy as well. He checked on all of his children before he turned in; although he doubted they were unaware of his night-time missions. Johnny, especially, was good at pretending he was asleep. "Goodnight then, son. Oh, Scott?"
"Yes, sir."
"I'm proud you're my son, Scott. There isn't a day that I don't thank God you both came home. In a way, I thank God for Pardee; because -- well -- the man brought you both here."
Scott thought about it for a moment. "It was even better that Pardee brought Johnny home, sir," he murmured, recalling just where it was Johnny had been when the Pinkerton agent had finally found him.
"I see your point, Scott, but I don't believe that boy would've stayed had it not been for you, and for that I am very grateful. Because you and I know how much he needs us, how much he needs Lancer." The next words came softly, but with great awareness. "I know what you've given up to be here with us, son."
Scott's smile extended all the way to his eyes; which were filled with incredible warmth. "No great sacrifice sir, I assure. I am far better off here with my family and -- more to the point -- am happier and more content than I've been for a very long time."
Murdoch felt his cheeks color. "Nevertheless, I'd like to thank you for coming home to me when you did; and for staying."
"Again, sir, I am very happy to be... home . Oh, Pa," he smiled, "I meant to thank you, too."
"Oh? What for son?"
Scott dipped his head shyly and for a brief moment Murdoch thought he was looking at Johnny; Scott's posture the same.
"For giving me a little brother," he grinned. He turned from Murdoch and slowly walked out of the room.
Murdoch smiled and raising his voice slightly, he spoke to his son's back, "You're very welcome, my son." The next came as an afterthought, but with great feeling. "Pleasant dreams, Scott," he called.
~ end ~


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Welcome to the Campfire.
One of my favorite things is sitting around the fire. Whether it's away in a campground, or at home in front the chiminea, some of the best conversations I've ever had, have been with a cozy flame and sparks drifting up into the night sky joining the stars. I think what I enjoy about camping, besides the owlishly good time, is the sense of community. It reminds me of past days sitting on the porch, talking to the passing neighbors. A time when kids weren't afraid to say hello to strangers. So, wherever you're joining us from, click on the campfire video (from the Pocono's this week) and relax. I hope you enjoy our conversation. Please feel free to leave comments or questions below. Also, if you would like to keep up with Around the Campfire and information, don't forget to sign up for my newsletter. Okay, without further delay…
Today I'm welcoming Daryl Devoré, author to the Around the Campfire. What's your preference, coffee, tea, cocoa, or wine?
Cocoa, please. And can I add that I am female. Most people think of Daryl as a male. But it is also a female name – old Celtic. When it rhymes with Karl, then it is female. When it rhymes with Carol, then it is male.
One cocoa coming up. I thought you were male at first. It's so interesting about your name. I Iove the history and etymology of words and names. Tell me, have you ever camped, or as I call what I do, Glamp. If so, tent, trailer, RV? Where? Did you like it? If not, and no judgment here, would you like to someday? Where?
In my third year of my phys.ed degree, we did an outdoor education course. We went camping – in February – in northern Ontario. It was -40. We camped outdoors for 8 days. Luckily, my cousin is in the Canadian Armed Forces, and he had a military grade Arctic sleeping bag. The class had been divided into groups of 9 or 10. One night, it was so cold that all 9 of us slept in a 3-man tent. It was an experience.
Now when I go camping, it is with my parents and family, and we camp in their RV, which is nicknamed Harvey. After my winter camping experience, I prefer a built-in bathroom, shower, kitchen, and comfy beds.
I understand. This girl doesn't sleep on the ground anymore. I do like my comforts. So, Daryl, tell us about your latest project. What's the title and genre?
Love My Fate is a reboot of a book that I received my rights back for. I created a new cover and added back in a couple of scenes that the publisher wanted deleted.
It is a hot romance about a business woman who meets the man of her dreams, except he isn't real.
Sounds very interesting. I'm glad you got your rights back. That's big for an author. I'm curious, do you have a tagline?
What's a woman to do when a voice follows her home and makes mad, passionate love to her?
That will definitely pull readers in. If you don't mind me asking, can you tell us how long it took from conception to fruition? It's the most asked question for me.
Only a couple of months. This was a fun, easy write.
Isn't it great when you get to do what you love and things flow, but did you ever hit the place where you threw your arms up in the air and said nope this is not going to work? If so, how did you get past it?
When I realized that I had to write a sex scene between a physical human being and voice, I knew I'd written myself into a tight corner. I do love a challenge.
When we challenge ourselves that's when things get interesting. Tell us. I have a myriad of projects at various stages of development, how about you? Anything you're itching to get to?
I have one more book from the five that I got my rights back for. I have gone through it and adjusted and rewrote some little bits. Now I am making the cover.
I have several that are sitting on my hard drive waiting for their moment.
Also, I wrote a fantasy complete with dragons then sent it off to my beta. She's fabulous. She came up with an idea of stretching the one book into an epic three. I am itching to get to that, but summer came along, and it is short and cherished, so I've been picking strawberries, weeding my garden and sitting on the dock eating ice cream instead.
Good for you. You have to take time to enjoy and participate in life. Looking over your shoulder, is there something you would tell your beginning self?
Write your stories for you. There are a lot of people who will tell you how you are supposed to write. They will pontificate that this is the only way or never do that or that won't sell, so don't waste your time.
Ignore them. Write what you want to write. Every story is real.
There's a lesson for everyone in that statement. Now, on a more personal note. Do you have a tattoo? If yes, what is it? If you feel brave, where? Does it have a story you feel you could tell us? If not and you were to get a tattoo, what would it be?
LOL – no tattoos. My friend and neighbour is a fantastic tattoo artist, and she is always saying – ooh – that spot (on my arm, my thigh, my back) I have the perfect tattoo for you. It'd be stunning.
So I don't have one and have gotten really good at changing the subject. But I do have a henna tattoo at the moment. It is on the inside of my left wrist, and it is the word Shanti, which means peace. I love yoga. I attend several classes a week, and the Shanti is honouring a moment in my yoga practice.
At the end of each class, there is savasana – a moment of total relaxation. The music for this particular day created the vision in my head of a woman standing on the shore, and the wind is blowing her hair. She was looking for something. I became that person. At the end of the song, still in my head, I looked at my wrist and the word Shanti was there. I told my yoga instructor, and she got excited saying – you're getting a tattoo. I laughed and said – nope! (Kinda scared of needles.)
But every so often, I have gotten a henna one, and it has been the simple word Shanti.
Very cool. I wouldn't do needles either, but Henna would be a fun way to temporarily express yourself. Next question. What was the best vacation you ever took? Why?
Oh, wow. Too many to choose from. My family has always vacationed together. But if I have to choose one, it would be the Cayman Islands a long time ago. I was snuggled down in a hammock strung between two palm trees, on the shore. I had a Diet Coke and journal and was happily writing. That's when I decided that was my perfect place and I needed to be next to the sea.
I visited Grand Cayman on my honeymoon. I know exactly what you experienced. Along those lines, years ago, there was a commercial which talked about a "Kodak Moment." It's a time you catch in a picture. One you never want to forget. What is yours?
Again, it would be a family moment after a vacation. We were all lined up outside the condo in the Caymans, and we are tanned and happy except my 6 yr old daughter. She is pouting. The vacation is over, and we have to go back to a cold Canadian winter.
A beautiful memory. I lived in Minnesota on a dairy farm for a couple of years. Not a lot of people understand that kind of cold. Are there any mentors, authors, or books, other than yours, you would like to give a shout-out to?
I'd tell you who my fabulous beta is – she is also an amazing author – but then you would all want her to beta for you. So, I am greedily going to keep her name secret and keep her all to myself. But she knows who she is.
Girl's got to have her secrets. Okay, final question. What does literary success look like to you?
Actually having a fan chat with me. I have corresponded with and am FB friends with several who are fans of my work. To have someone like your work so much that they want to chat with you – wow – that makes you feel pretty special.
How great is that! I'm sure you have many more of those experiences in your future. Daryl, thank you so much for joining me around the campfire today. I would appreciate you leaving us a blurb and excerpt from your work. Don't forget to add where we can purchase your book and how we can find out more about you below.
Daryl's book is erotic romance and meant for 18+.
Corporate businesswoman, Capricious Gray, is dragged to a sex toy convention by her best friend. After a mysterious disembodied voice helps her with her purchases, it follows her home. Passion ensues, leaving Capri torn between lust for her fantasy lover and the desperate need for reality in her life.
Thall, son of one of the Fates, harbours the irrepressible need to be with the woman he's desired from afar for years. In order to make her his, once and for all, he must help Capri get past her fears, including the fear of what he represents - a fantasy.
Can fantasy become a reality for these two lovers?
Note: This book was previously published by New Dawning Bookfair under the title Capri's Fate. The edition has a new title, new cover and has restored previously deleted scenes.
My erotic adventure began the moment he whispered, "Do you happen to own a pair of red, fuzzy handcuffs?"
~ * * ~
Well okay, it didn't exactly start there. If I'm going to be perfectly honest, I think it started with Kat's text: "Meet me at - insert name of five-star restaurant here."
Kat's always getting me to take her out for expensive dinners. I don't mind, I'm a highly-paid executive, in a large global corporation, while she's a receptionist in a small dental office. Besides, I like good food and her company.
Kat and I have been BFFs since third grade. We were in each other's wedding parties and cried on each other's shoulders at our subsequent divorces. Now, we're each other's go-to person whenever the mood strikes. Obviously, the mood struck and it involved my credit card. I texted back a reply –"Xavier's. 6 pm."
~ * * ~
Kat waited outside the restaurant when my cab pulled up to the curb. "Timing or what? I just got here."
After the requisite cheek kiss, we stepped up to the Maitre D'. He smiled his I-must-be-friendly-because-they're-guests smile and escorted us to our table. We ordered drinks and chatted. We talked about the weather, her new dress, my job—you know, just old—no, scratch old, put long-time—girlfriend stuff.
After a diet conscious meal, followed by a calorie-loaded dessert, we waited outside for a taxi.
"Do you trust me?" With a goofy grin on her face, Kat's dark chocolate mellowed-from-too-much-wine, eyes gazed at me.
Having seen that innocent demeanour before; it meant nothing but trouble, I was a bit wary. Okay, a lot wary! The last time she'd gawked at me like that and asked the same brainless question, we ended up at a frat house beer slosh during Homecoming and I wasn't in college anymore.
A cab pulled up and stopped. She grabbed my arm and dragged me into it. "Convention Centre."
I slid next to her and shut the car door. "What's at the convention centre?"
"That's the trust me bit." She raised her hands and flicked two fingers up and down at the words trust me.
You have to love air quotes.
I checked my cell for messages then glanced at her. "Is this going to get me arrested? Again?"
She shook her head.
"Is it going to get me hit on—again—by horny, beer-soaked, college drunks?"
Kat giggled.
"Is that a yes or a no?"
"Nope. Not going to tell you. You need to trust me."
Air quotes.
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Pinterest page for Love My Fate
In the spirit of invisible voices this weeks recommended movies are
Ghost with Demi Moore and Patrick Swayze
The Ghost and Mrs. Muir Jean Tierney and Rex Harrison
And in honor of our Canadian guest today's Recipe
Daryl Devore
7/20/2019 08:37:18 am
Thanks for letting me stop by. It was a fun interview. Good luck with your blog.
7/20/2019 08:43:23 am
It was my pleasure. Thank you for being my 1st guest.
7/20/2019 08:50:26 am
Nice to meet you Daryl!
Daryl Devore
7/20/2019 09:56:15 am
Thank you.
7/20/2019 09:43:22 am
Lovely to meet you, Daryl. Great interview! Best of luck with LOVE MY FATE. :)
Daryl Devore
7/20/2019 09:57:04 am
It was a fun interview :-)
cb clark
7/20/2019 10:11:00 am
Very interesting post. It's always so much fun to find out more about authors. Love the cover!
Daryl Devore
7/21/2019 12:45:20 pm
Thank you - I designed and created it.
7/20/2019 10:53:48 am
Thanks you for stopping by. 🦉
7/21/2019 02:30:27 pm
Live in Wisconsin, and used to winter camp, so I understand cold. Sounds like a very good book!
7/21/2019 05:44:41 pm
Thanks for stopping by Ilona. I have relatives in Madison. We were there 3 years ago. What a beautiful city.
Leave a Reply.
October 2020

subset: commoncrawl


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Silver 'Bamboo' Cigar CaseLovely quality stylish silver cigar case modelled as lengths of cut Bamboo stem, divided inside to take up to four cigars.Enquire
Stamped with the '800 standard' silver mark, circa 1960.
Dimensions: 14cm/5½ inches (length) x 10.25cm/4 inches (width) x 2.5cm/1 inch (thick).
Will take maximum cigar diameter of 20 mm/50 ring gauge and accommodate a maximum length of 5⅜ inches/14.5 cm; great for Robustos!#This item is now sold.
Please do enquire if you would like us to help find something similar.
Recently viewed


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On Friday 29 April 2011 at Westminster Abbey, Prince William will marry Catherine Middleton in the first major royal wedding for 12 years. And what better way to celebrate than by treating yourself to a range of toiletries fit for a king or queen?
At Heathcote & Ivory we're proud to have been selected exclusively by Sanderson to produce and distribute their ranges of toiletry and home fragrance products.
Founded in 1860, Sanderson is an internationally renowned brand in the field of interior design and decorating, that has been granted a Royal Warrant to supply fabrics, paint and wall-coverings to HM Queen Elizabeth II and British Royal Palaces.
Sanderson's quintessentially English fabrics and wallpapers, bedlinen, paint and tableware collections are a perfect fit for Heathcote & Ivory products, that reflect the same classic design, exceptional quality and value for money.
We have a wide range of Sanderson products available, all of which feature the classic 'A Painter's Garden' design. This original artwork produced by designers in the Sanderson studio, is painted from life and inspired by botanical engravings and etchings, incorporating a fresh mix of floral and botanical.
Our products include luxury hand cream, hand wash, shower gel and body lotion, gift soaps, scented sachets and drawer liners, and even ceramic caddies, manicure gift sets, and cosmetics purses. Some of our most popular are listed below:
Sanderson - A Painter's Garden Luxury Hand Cream
Luxurious hand cream enriched with shea butter and vitamin E to nourish and moisturise.
Sanderson - A Painter's Garden Hand Wash & Hand Lotion Ceramic Caddy
Stylish, classic embossed ceramic caddy with elegant hand wash and lotion set.
Sanderson - A Painter's Garden 3 Boxed Soaps & Ceramic Dish
Set of three luxury embossed soaps, beautifully boxed with an elegant white ceramic dish.
Sanderson A Painters Garden Cosmetics Bowling Bag
A bumper sized cosmetics bowling bag to stylishly tote around town, for carrying lotions, gizmos, books or fashion necessities. The 'It Bag' of 2011.
Our entire Sanderson range can be found here. This May, why not treat yourself to a Royal Pampering?


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High-dimensional networked biological systems are ubiquitous and characterized by a large connectivity graph whose structure determines how the system operates as a whole. Our objective is to extract the underlying engineering principles of cognitive capability, namely those that allow complex networks to enact control, learning and functionality in the robust manner observed in neurosensory systems. Our models focus on the olfaction signal processing in the hawk moth and the connectomic dynamics and biomechanics of the C. elegans nematode. In addition to network structure and function, we consider a data-driven method whereby low-rank, reduced order models can be directly constructed from data alone using sparse regression algorithms. The methods can be enacted in an online and non-intrusive fashion using randomized (sparse) sampling. The method is ideal for parametric systems, requiring rapid model updates without recourse to the full high-dimensional system. Moreover, we discover Koopman embeddings, or coordinates, whereby the nonlinear dynamics can be approximated by linear evolution equations for future state prediction and control.
Nathan Kutz was awarded his B.S. in physics and mathematics from the University of Washington in 1990 and his Ph.D. in applied mathematics from Northwestern University in 1994. Following postdoctoral fellowships at the Institute for Mathematics and its Applications (University of Minnesota, 1994-1995) and Princeton University (1995-1997), he joined the University of Washington's faculty of applied mathematics and served as chair from 2007-2015.


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Published: 11 July 2019
We are still trying to clear the donation backlog for the Harry Daly Museum (HDM) but we are making leaps and bounds to accession new items into the collection as well as undertaking a complete audit of the entire collection.
So, if you have any items you're waiting to donate to the HDM then please hold onto them for just a little bit longer as we keep sorting through the wonderful items we've already got pending.
The last meeting of the HALMA Committee was incredibly successful with 21 items coming into the collection. Some of these items are a laryngeal mask endotube introducer, ties used for securing endotracheal tubes (dyed pink to raise funds for breast cancer), an old apothecary bottle which is thought to have held Laudanum, a well-used Nembutal tin from around the middle of last century, an old door stop that was used as a bite block and a Haemometer.
Work is still taking place in the Museum as we prepare to start an audit of the entire collection. Following this, changes will start to come to the Museum so watch this space!
The HDM is open by appointment Thursday and Friday, 10am-4pm. Please email firstname.lastname@example.com to arrange your visit.


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The Global Necrotising Enterocolitis Market is expected to gain prominence over the forecast period (2018–2023). It is estimated that the Necrotising Enterocolitis (NEC) Market is expected to register a CAGR 5.5% during the forecast period of 2018 to 2023.
Necrotizing Enterocolitis is the most common cause of gastrointestinal-related morbidity and mortality. The most premature infants are the most vulnerable. According to a study published in the Advances in Neonatal Care (2013), it was estimated that approximately 12% of infants born with the body weight of less than 1500 g are likely to develop Necrotizing Enterocolitis. The ascites condition is also found to be associated with Stage IIa and IIIa. The severity of the condition pushes the demand for better diagnosis and treatment approaches. Notably, the market is expected to expand in the near future due to the prevalence of Necrotizing Enterocolitis.
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Various other factors such as improved reimbursement policies in developed countries, improving regulatory framework, growing research funding, unmet medical needs, and increasing government assistance are continuously contributing to the growth of the global Necrotising Enterocolitis (NEC) market. The increasing contribution of marketers is also fueling the growth of the market. For instance, on February 15, 2018, Prometic Life Sciences Inc. received the FDA orphan drug designation status to its Inter-Alpha-Inhibitor-Proteins ("IAIP") for the treatment of necrotizing enterocolitis.
List of Major Players Mentioned in Report:
The Global Necrotising Enterocolitis (NEC) Market Players are Abbott Laboratories Inc. (U.S.), Astellas Pharma Inc. (Japan), Bayer HealthCare AG (Germany), Becton, Dickinson and Company (BD) (U.S.), Bristol-Myers Squibb Company (U.S.), Daiichi Sankyo Company , Ltd. (Japan), Eli Lilly and Co. (U.S.), Enzon Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (U.S.), F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd (Switzerland), GI Supply (U.S.), GlaxoSmithKline Plc (UK), Kyorin Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (U.S.), Medtronic Plc (U.S.), Merck & Co. Inc. (U.S.), MiddleBrook Pharmaceuticals (Japan), Novartis AG (Switzerland), Pfizer Inc. (U.S.), Sanofi-Aventis (France), Sequana Medical AG (Switzerland), Takeda Pharmaceutical Company, Ltd. (Japan), and others.
Necrotising Enterocolitis (NEC) Market Segmentation:
The Global Necrotising Enterocolitis (NEC) Market is segmented on the basis of stage, diagnosis, treatment, and end-user.
Based on stage, the market is classified as Stage I, Stage II, and Stage III. The Stage II is further segmented into Stage IIa and Stage IIb. The Stage III is further segmented into Stage IIIa and Stage IIIb.
Based on diagnosis, the market is classified as imaging, laboratory studies, and differential diagnosis. The imaging segment is further classified as abdominal x-ray, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), ultrasound, laparoscopy, angiography, and others. The laboratory studies segment is further classified as haemochromocytometric exam, blood culture, serum electrolytes, arterial blood gas analysis, blood pressure monitor, and others. The differential diagnosis segment is further classified as ileus secondary to neonatal sepsis, spontaneous intestinal perforation, ileal atresia, intestinal malrotation, volvulus, neonatal appendicitis, neonatal pseudomembranous colitis, and others.
Based on treatment, the market is classified as Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN), gastrointestinal decompression, antimicrobial therapy, antifungal treatment, paracentesis, and others.
Based on end-user, the market is classified as hospitals and clinics, ambulatory surgical center, diagnostic centers, and others.
Necrotising Enterocolitis (NEC) Market Regional Summary:
The Americas dominates the Necrotising Enterocolitis (NEC) market owing to the increasing prevalence of chronic pain, well-developed technology, high healthcare expenditure, and the presence of leading players. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 2015, the total health expenditure in the U.S. region was reported to be USD 3.2 trillion hospital care accounted for a share of 32.3%.
Europe holds the second position in the Necrotising Enterocolitis (NEC) market. It is expected that the increasing contribution towards research and development and increasing competition among marketers are likely to drive the European Necrotising Enterocolitis (NEC) market.
Asia Pacific is the fastest growing Necrotising Enterocolitis (NEC) market owing to a huge patient pool, increasing demand for treatment, and rising healthcare expenditure. As per the data suggested by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare during 2015 to 2016, the total health expenditure was nearly USD 170.4 billion, i.e., 3.6% higher than the expenditure of 2014 to 2015.
The Middle East and Africa holds the lowest share of the global Necrotising Enterocolitis (NEC) market due to low development, lack of technical knowledge, and poor medical facilities.
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Dear Matthew,
I am writing this letter to you as I sit on an airplane headed for your new home. The adopton papers have been filed and your new daddy is waiting at the airport. I can't wait to see his face when we step off of the plane.
I always wondered if I'd ever be blessed with my own baby. But, your daddy always knew in his heart that it would happen. He never doubted it and because of him, my dream has come true this day. I am holding you in my arms as you sleep. You are such a beautiful baby! Amazingly enough, you have my blonde hair and your daddy's blue eyes! It is as though God placed you inside of another woman's womb to ensure your safe passage into this world for us. My heart is full to bursting open with love for you already. But then, I loved you long before you were even born.
As I gaze down at this wonderful gift God, your daddy, and your birth mother have given me, I am struck by the awesome responsibility of nurturing you into adulthood. I pray that I will be a good mother. I want so much for you-so much more than I had as a child. I am worried that my feelings of hurt and bitterness towards your birth mother will be handed down to you by some fault of my own. Even though she put me through hell, I want you to think better of her than that. In the end, she did what was right by giving you a chance at life. It is hard for me to remember to be kind to her memory because I look at your labored breathing, your swollen eyes, your sore ears, and your pale, malnourished skin and I want to stike out against her! It is hard to remember that she was just a sick child who knew no better. However, when I think of the 3 months you endured this misery, I am astounded by both her cruelty and your strong will to live. I am convinced that you were surviving for me.
I remember the first time I saw you. You were 2 days old and so very tiny. I knew then that you were mine and I would have moved Heaven and Earth to bring you home then, but she changed her mind. I was heartbroken, but I had to respect her decision. I held you close, gazed into your eyes, and told you how much I loved you. I also willed you to remember me. You must have, because when I arrived to pick you up, you responded to my voice with a smile. You followed me throughout the room with those blue eyes of yours and I fell in love all over again.
My little miracle, how I love you so. My Matthew, which means "gift of God." You truly are the greatest of all gifts I have ever recieved or shall ever recieve in this lifetime. The plane is making it's decent now. In a few minutes, you will meet your daddy. I can't even begin to explain how it feels to be able to finally present this wonderful man with his own son. I know that he will love you as I do because he always has. He knew you long before he knew me, long before he was ready to be a daddy. He knew that he would make a home for some precious little baby like you. He never cared whether you came from my body or not. He always believed in the adoption process and I thank God that he did. My precious little son, you may not have been concieved and carried beneath my heart, but you most definitely have lived a lifetime within it!
Your New Mommy,
Christine G. Law
December 1993
(c) Christine G. Law All Rights Reserved


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Microfungi isolated from soil samples collected in Franz Joseph Land by means of the soil dilution and soil washing methods were screened for their ability to grow at low temperatures. The oligotrophic ability of the psychrotrophic strains was then determined on silica gel. A total of 40 taxa from 21 genera were isolated. Most isolates were species of Acremonium, Geomyces, Mortierella, Phialophora, Phoma, Thelebolus and sterile fungi. Eutypella scoparia, Hyphozyma variabilis and Ovadendron sulphureo-ochraceum are new records as soil and Arctic fungi. Most fungal isolates were psychrotrophic. The few psychrooligotrophs were species of Geomyces, Phoma, Thelebolus and Mortierella. Overall, our results suggest that the major component of an Arctic soil mycoflora should be active in one or more short growing seasons interspersed with periods of prolonged dormancy. Only a minor component, such as the small group of psychrooligotrophic fungi found in this study, may be expected to show continuous slow growth.
|Original language
|Pages (from-to)
|Number of pages
|Polar Biology
|Issue number
|Publication status
|Print publication - May 1999
|Externally published
Fingerprint Dive into the research topics of 'Psychrooligotrophic fungi from arctic soils of Franz Joseph Land'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.
Cite this
Bergero, R., Girlanda, M., Varese, GA., Intili, D., & Luppi, AM. (1999). Psychrooligotrophic fungi from arctic soils of Franz Joseph Land. Polar Biology, 21(6), 361-368. https://doi.org/10.1007/s003000050374


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Rahul Gandhi's road show in Dholpur, attacks PM on economic policies
Congress President Rahul Gandhi Tuesday attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his economic and agricultural polices, saying not a single rupee of farmers' loan has been waived by the government and the Make-In-India campaign has "failed" with phones and T-shirts being outsourced from China.
Gandhi said his party "wants phones to be made in India and have a tag of made in Dholpur".
Beginning his 150-km long road show in eastern Rajasthan from Mania in Dholpur district, which shares border with Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, the Congress president attacked the government on a range of issues ranging from the Rafale deal, law and order situation to demonetisation.
Rajasthan goes to polls in December.
Gandhi said the prime minister during the 2014 Lok Sabha election had said he wanted to be a 'chowkidar' but never clarified for whom he wanted to become the 'chowkidar'.
Youth had trusted Modi. He had said he did not wish to become a prime minister but wanted to be a chowkidar. Now people are laughing. He never told that whose chowkidar he wanted to be. They got to know later that Anil Ambani is being protected, Gandhi charged at the first meeting under the road show.
He alleged that Modi benefitted 15-20 top industrialists of the country instead of farmers.
Raising the Rafale deal issue, the Congress president reiterated his allegation that Hindustan Aeronautical Ltd was ignored and Prime minister's industrialist friend was benefitted with the deal which was finalised with higher prices as compared to rates decided by the former UPA government.
Gandhi said Modi did not speak a single word when he raised the Rafale matter.
Naming industrialists Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi, Lalit Modi and Anil Ambani, he alleged that the prime minister benefitted them and did not take care of farmers, youths etc.
He said the former UPA government led by his party had waived off farmers' loan worth Rs. 70,000 crore but bad debt worth Rs. 3.5 lakh crore were written off by the present government led by Modi and the PM did not waive even Rs. 1 of farmers.
"Former UPA government gave MGNREGA, brought tribal bill, gave rights of food and information, meal to students in schools, waived off farmers' loan worth Rs. 70,000 crore. In Rajasthan, the Ashok Gehlot government introduced free medicine schemes but what Narendra Modi government and Vasundhara Raje government did for the poor? he asked.
We took a decision within ten days to waive off farmers' loan worth Rs. 70,000 crore but debt wroth Rs. 3.5 lakh crore was written off by the Modi government in the last four years. He did not waive a single penny of farmers. I went to the prime minster's office only once and that too to raise farmers' issue but the PM remained silent and did not speak a single word, he said.
The Congress president claimed that demonetisation and GST decisions destroyed the economy.
You go and ask small scale businessmen and they will tell you what the situation is. Demonetisation and GST have destroyed the country's economy, he charged.
Referring to law and order issues, Gandhi said, "Modiji gave a slogan of Beti Bachao, Beti Padao. But when a BJP MLA rapes a woman in Uttar Pradesh, both PM and CM try to save him".
He said, "A BJP MLA allegedly raped a woman in UP but the prime minister did not utter a word. They say Beti Bachao, they have forgotten Beti Padao…BJP se Bachao (save from BJP)," he said.
Targeting Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje, the Congress president alleged that Lalit Modi gave money directly to Raje's son.
However, he did not specify when and why Lalit Modi allegedly paid Raje's son Dushyant Singh.
He exuded confidence that the Congress would return to power in Rajasthan and said it would be a government for the poor, small and medium businessmen and youths.
Speaking about attack on migrants in Gujarat, he said youths from Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh are being attacked and forced to leave.
Youth trusted Modi but Modi betrayed their trust, he charged.
The Congress president said the government has failed and urged people to form a Congress government at the Centre which would work for the poor, farmers and youths of the country once again.
He said it would be a people's government in Rajasthan. The doors of chief ministers, ministers and MLAs would always remain open for people. He gave an assurace that Congress ministers would be accessible to everyone.
Gandhi said the Congress is united and going to win the election in Rajasthan.
They talk about their Mann ki Baat and we want to talk about people's Man ki Baat, he said.
He said people should try making RSS and BJP understand that there is no benefit in "dividing" the country. Country wants to be united and move along together, he added.
Congress party's state chief Sachin Pilot targeted Raje, saying she announced free electricity to farmers half an hour before the model code of conduct came in force but where was she for over four and a half years.
AICC general secretary and former CM Ashok Gehlot and other leaders were present on the occasion.
After the rally, Gandhi began his road show in a bus with party leaders. He will travel for nearly 150 km during the road show in Dholpur, Bharatpur and Dausa districts.


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ArtPlace America
Leveraging art, culture, creativity and design in community development, often termed "creative placemaking" is a key strategy for building culturally-resilient communities and fostering a sense of belonging for residents. These strategies can increase social cohesion, strengthening the built environment and fostering connections between people.
Our Rose Architectural Fellow program has successfully placed architects at community development corporations (CDC) for over two decades bringing collaborative, community-engaged design to facilitate an inclusive approach that results in sustainable, healthy, affordable homes and neighborhoods.
Thanks to support from ArtPlace America, we have expanded the program's scope to include artists. Paired with two local non-profit host organizations over a two-year period, Art-focused fellows will collaborate to build the capacity of community developers to leverage art, culture, creativity and design to advance their mission.
Host organizations will gain an infusion of creative capacity; artists will expand their skills in collaborating with community members; and Enterprise will learn and disseminate best practices for the field.


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For over 100 years, Massachusetts Maritime Academy has been preparing women and men for exciting and rewarding careers on land and sea. As the nation's finest co-ed maritime college, MMA challenges students to succeed by balancing a unique regimented lifestyle with a typical four-year college environment. As a member of the cadet corps you will live, study, sail, work and play in an atmosphere that encourages you to be your best.
Pan Mass Challenge
The Pan-Mass Challenge raises money for life-saving cancer research and treatment at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute through an annual bike-a-thon that crosses the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Since its founding in 1980, the PMC has successfully melded support from committed cyclists, volunteers, corporate sponsors and individual contributors. All are essential to the PMC's goal and model: to attain maximum fundraising efficiency while increasing its annual gift. Our hope and aspiration is to provide Dana-Farber's doctors and researchers with the necessary resources to discover cures for all cancers.
Massachusetts Maritime Academy is one of the weekend locations for the ride.
Visit the PMC website


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SPECIAL REPORT The charity industry
Critics call for tighter control of the billions raise or good works
Dinner is on the table and the phone rings. "Good evening," says a cheery voice, "and how are you this evening?" Hungry, what do you want? What the caller wants is money— "Can we count on you for $100? No? Fifty?"—for animal sanctuaries, wheelchair basketball players, homeless teenagers or opera companies. Across Canada, multiplying regiments of volunteers and paid agents are aggressively hitting the phones, ringing doorbells and using direct mail to pry open the public wallet on behalf of an ever-widening array of charities. (These days, it is not uncommon for a canvasser to call back, and sometimes more than once, after being turned down.) Already embracing more than 70,000 organizations, the charity sector rakes in a lofty and mostly taxfree $80 billion-plus every year, making charity a bigger business than agriculture or the automobile industry. And while most charities are legitimate and well run, some have been accused of misconduct ranging from waste to outright fraud. "There are problems all over the place," says a Revenue Canada official. "There's always a rotten apple in the barrel." One explanation behind the militant search for money is that many charities are trying to provide social services discontinued by budget-slashing governments. At the same time, the void left by these cutbacks has led to the creation of more and more charities—5,000 new ones in the past three years. It has heightened competition for the donor's dollar and made unscrupulous operators harder to spot. As a result, critics say Canada should follow the lead of England and most U.S. states by enacting tough new laws to regulate charities and make them more accountable for how they spend their money.
And there are a lot of critics. In a 683-page, two-volume review made public in early June, the Ontario Law Reform Commission, favoring the creation of a government body to police the province's charities, said the existing law, rooted in the 16th century, is "inadequate, badly conceived and outdated." The Revenue Canada official, who requested anonymity, said Ontario, Alberta and British Columbia try to keep an eye on charities, but in the other provinces "charities supervision is almost non-existent." In his 1992 report to Parliament, the auditor general said Revenue Canada's rules were so loose that charities that ran afoul of them could avoid a penalty simply by creating a new charity and moving their money into it.
Anyone can set up a charity and ask the public for money. The provinces insist that all the money collected—whether from black-tie benefits or plastic jars on convenience store counters—must be spent on charity, minus reasonable expenses, but enforcement across the country ranges from weak to none. If the charity wants to encourage generosity by offering receipts for which the donor gets a tax credit, it must apply to Revenue Canada for registration. Ottawa's rules are few; the principal one requires registered charities to spend 80 per cent of tax-receipted donations on charitable works. As far as Revenue Canada is concerned, what they do with non-receipted donations—or any other income, including billions in government grants—is up to them.
There are numerous examples of how easily charitable funds can be either mishandled or plundered. In 1991, Toronto social activist and fund-raiser Patricia Starr was convicted of criminal breach of trust when tens of thousands of dollars she was responsible for on behalf of the National Council of Jewish Women, a charity, wound up financing the campaigns of Ontario politicians. One national charity allows volunteers to use official cars on weekends and donors' dollars pay for the gas. In 1995, a British Columbia forensic auditor's report disclosed that $60,000 in charity funds raised by the Nanaimo Commonwealth Holding Society had been used to pay the expenses of provincial NDP delegates to a Winnipeg convention.
The harshest indictment of the existing safeguards has come from Ontario Liberal MP John Bryden. Last October, Bryden—a former Toronto Star financial writer—presented the Commons finance committee with a scathing 81-page report urging drastic reform of the charity field. "Very clearly," he says, "there is a lot of mismanagement and abuse." Not so, the charities have angrily fired back, claiming they are already well-supervised by their volunteer boards of directors. Chad Hanna, executive director of the Muscular Dystrophy Association of Canada, says charities have always prized accountability "because we want people to understand what we do." And Patrick Johnston, president of the Toronto-based Canadian Centre for Philanthropy, which acts as a clearinghouse for 630 member agencies, 95 per cent of them registered charities, quarrels with the implication of critics like Bryden that the whole field "is full of people on the take."
The arena where this battle is being waged represents a huge chunk of the Canadian economy. A1993 study by Johnston's centre estimated that the nation's charities had assets of about $109 billion and employed 1.3 million people—12 per cent of the entire workforce. This year, charities, transfused with individual and corporate donations and government grants, will take in nearly twice the combined revenues of manufacturing giants Northern Telecom Ltd., IBM Canada and Alcan Aluminium Ltd. As long ago as 1990, the auditor general calculated that tax-exempt charitable donations—which are dwarfed by the provincial and federal grants, bequests and investment income that charities get—had passed $3 billion a year, which represented a loss to the federal treasury of $600 million.
For Canada's charities, collecting money is an expensive business. Of the $98 million collected by 20 selected health charities in 1995-1996, more than $29 million went to salaries and administration. Fund-raising costs exceeded $21 million and the organizations claimed to have spent just under $49 million on charitable activities. The group also finished the year with more than $35 million in the bank. Most of them say much of the banked surplus has been committed to future research or other programs.
There are charities that champion natives, animals, Christians, trade unions, foreign aid, women and children; the fight against pollution, poverty, smoking; and ailments from psoriasis to schizophrenia. The Consumers Association of Canada and the Canadian Cancer Society are charities. So are the National Association of Canadians of Origins in India, Ottawa's National Arts Centre, the Victorian Order of Nurses and the Harborview Volunteer Fire Department of Guysborough County, N.S. What is less commonly known is that the sector also includes such respected institutions as universities, hospitals, museums and places of worship.
But over the entire sector, says Bryden, "billions of dollars are being misspent and we won't solve the problem until we write legislation with real teeth." Meanwhile, an Ontario government charities handbook suggests that the public should be cautious. The "relatively small number of unscrupulous individuals who abuse the public's confidence," it says, "should make all of us vigilant."
The wealthiest charities are those with the fattest government grants, mostly hospitals and universities. But in 1996, the beleaguered Canadian Red Cross got two-thirds of its $530 million in revenue from the public treasury. The smallest charities are mom-and-pop ventures like the Neurofibromatosis Society of Ontario, based in Whitby, which raised $14,000 to help victims of the inherited nerve disorder. Then there are hundreds, perhaps thousands, of organizations whose entitlement to charity status is less obvious—like the Canadian Society for the Study of Names, the Governor General's Foot Guards and the American Civil War Reenactment Society. "Not everyone," said Bryden, "is committed to celebrating the battles of another country."
Unlike business and industry, answerable to stock exchanges, securities commissions, shareholders and the marketplace, charities enjoy relative freedom. In order to attract more money, most choose to register with Revenue Canada so they can issue receipts for tax purposes. But they have to file an annual return to verity, among other things, that they followed the 80-per-cent rule. About the worst that Ottawa can do to a charity if it misbehaves—for example, by political lobbying or failing to reach the 80-per-cent threshold—is to revoke its registration (which, incidentally, does not prevent it from staying in business). It is not much of a deterrent: Revenue Canada has the manpower to audit no more than 600 or so charities a year, and only about 15 to 20 are disqualified.
The day-to-day supervision of charities, including what they do with their money, is the responsibility of the provinces. Yet Ontario, credited with having the best surveillance program in the country, has only seven people in the office of the public trustee to monitor more than 26,000 charities. The trustee's role is to make sure that money donated or bequeathed to charity ends up where it is supposed to, but the office seldom learns of abuses unless someone complains. "We need to be able to pick up on the cases that we now don't know about," says deputy public trustee Jay Chalke. "We do a good job with the tools we have, but if we had better tools we could do a better job."
In the United States and England, the tools are better—and tougher. Maryland, for example, has a toll-free line for complaints about charities. In New Hampshire, charities that fail to file financial statements on time can be fined up to $10,000. And in Connecticut, a judge last March fined a charity $15,000 for not having filed since 1992. "The United States," says the Revenue Canada official somewhat enviously, "is way ahead of us in terms of charitable sector regulation." One example: the U.S. Internal Revenue Service can fine charity officials who accept "excessive" salary deals. In Canada, there are no limits on the incomes of charity employees but trustees must serve free of charge.
In England and Wales, more than 180,000 charities are answerable to the government's Charity Commission, which has the power to investigate abuses of its guidelines for accounting practices, budgets, collections, banking, purchases and investments. A commission publication notes that some charities claim they should be able to operate on trust alone, but that, it concludes, "is not realistic." The argument for independent regulation is at the heart of Bryden's 10-month drive to have the federal and provincial governments rein in the charity sector. Charities supporters have fought back. During the campaign leading to the June 2 federal election this year in the southwestern Ontario riding of Wentworth/ Burlington, the 54-year-old ex-journalist found himself up against more than his Tory opponent. A group calling itself Physicians Concerned About Tobacco Diseases bought a full-page ad in The Ottawa Citizen to denounce his skirmishes with antismoking organizations such as the Canadian Council on Smoking and Health, a charity.
The doctors also paid for a full-page ad in the local weekly Dundas Review, arguing that the MP's "campaign against Canadian charities" was endangering public health. A commercial on a Hamilton radio station proclaimed that "we don't need a threat to public health representing us in Ottawa." All that intervening, calculates Bryden, cost him about 10,000 votes, although he won comfortably anyway. In a recent interview in his storefront riding office in Dundas, west of Hamilton, Bryden relished his victory and declared himself back on the warpath.
What he basically wants the two levels of government to do, says Bryden, is follow the regulatory road taken by America and England. Ottawa and the provinces, he says, should collaborate on creating a set of enforceable standards for all charities and "if people are wilfully cheating they ought to go to jail." He says if the 80-per-cent rule is to be retained, then it should apply to grants, bequests and investment income, not just receipted donations.
Fat U.S. charity salaries can lead to fines
(most recently available year)
Neurofibromatosis Society of Ontario $14,139
Huntington Society of Canada 1,574,996
Canadian Liver Foundation 7,016,364
Canadian Foundation for the Study of Infant Deaths 507,318
Heart & Stroke Foundation 9,360,947
Canadian Lung Association 2,437,861
Tourette Syndrome Foundation 485,793
Spina Bifida Association 269,587
Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Foundation 10,547,275
Canadian Hemophilia Society 3,163,722
Canadian Psoriasis Foundation 134,861
Osteoporosis Society of Canada 1,398,613
The Arthritis Society 12,351,528
Muscular Dystrophy Association 8,151,082
Kidney Foundation of Canada 16,397,440
ALS Society of Canada 1,349,185
Schizophrenia Society of Canada 1,136,740
Ontario Federation for the Cerebral Palsied 2,231,611
Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada 12,925,262
Crohn's and Colitis Foundation 4,944,859
And finally, Bryden says, "charity" has to be redefined. At present, Revenue Canada and the courts use the formula devised by a British judge in 1891 that a charity must either relieve poverty, help education or religion, or otherwise benefit the community. The problem with that yardstick, says Bryden, "is that just about anything can be made to fit. Charitable activity should be directed to helping people in need." Bryden based much of his 1996 report on an examination of about 500 of the financial information returns charities are supposed to fde each year. Called T3010s and publicly available from Revenue Canada, these returns are the only window on where charities get their money and how they spend it. An expanded T3010, requesting more numbers, will be used for the 1997 fiscal year. But the rules stay the same—a charity cannot advocate or oppose changes in the law, must spend its money "predominantly" on good works, keep administrative expenses "reasonable," avoid big surpluses and describe in detail what it proposes to do. Revenue Canada says that abbreviated responses, such as "to relieve poverty," will just not do. Yet they are commonplace.
Some organizations spend little on real charity
The figures for 1995 furnish some insight into how the charitable sector as a whole interprets words such as "predominantly." To begin with, as many as 13,000 organizations apparently did not file returns at all and got away with it. The roughly 60,000 that did had revenues of $54 billion of which nearly two-thirds went to charitable programs (although the definition of "charitable" may differ from one charity to the next). Manage ment and administration, together with the salaries of employees not assigned to charitable deeds, absorbed an additional $15 billion.
Individual returns are more revealing. Although Revenue Canada says applicants for registration must submit a detailed statement of purpose, Physicians for a Smoke Free Canada described its mission in 1993 merely as the "promotion of public health policy."
That volunteer fire department in Nova Scotia had receipts of just under $52,000 in 1995, but did not say how much it spent on charity. Its mission statement: "to provide fire protection."
The Can-Am Indian Friendship Centre of Windsor, Ont., got no donations at all in 1994. Government grants and "expense recovery" yielded an income of roughly $1 million, and more than $600,000 went to salaries.
There are more bizarre examples.
The Tulsa, Okla.-based Osborn Foundation of Canada raised more than $150,000 in receipted donations in Canada and allocated only $42,000 to charity—all of it in the United States. Its robust mission: "Advancement of Christianity worldwide." Iliqvik Inc., a Dorval, Que., charity offering unspecified services to adult Inuit, took in less than $325,000 (none of it in donations) and spent it all on management and administration. In Red Deer, Alta., the Quimby Foundation used tax-receipted donations of nearly $70,000 to preserve the writings of Phineas P Quimby, a 19th-century American clock maker. Charities can also support other charities. In Saskatoon, Quick Build Systems, a registered charity, got $47,000 from the Jehovah's Witnesses to make them furniture.
Across North America, the best-known charities are the ones that fight a wide variety of human ills by funding research, helping victims and educating the public. In the United States, the American Institute of Philanthropy periodically rates these so-called health charities like school exams—A, B, C and so on—and pulls no punches. In its September, 1996, ratings, it gave the National Easter Seal Society a D because it spent too much on fund-raising, and the Shriners an F for keeping too large a surplus. The institute and similar agencies say at least half of a charity's income should be spent on charitable programs. The American Red Cross, the March of Dimes, the American Heart Association, the American Lung Association and the Muscular Dystrophy Association all scored above 75 per cent.
The Revenue Canada returns covering 20 Canadian health charities cited earlier showed that 12 channelled half or more of their total income into charitable programs. The tiny Neurofibromatosis Society of Ontario led the pack at 90 per cent, followed by the Huntington Society of Canada and the Canadian Liver Foundation at 77. The Canadian Foundation for the Study of Infant Deaths was fourth with 71 followed by the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada with 67. The lowest percentages: the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada at 24 per cent and the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of Canada at 22. I However, cautions the Canadian phili anthropy centre's Johnston, the Canadi§ an numbers may not tell the whole story. £ The problem, he says, "is that charita? ble organizations in this country are opæ erating without any commonly accepted guidelines for how expenditures are accounted for." An expense that one charity assigns to programs might be regarded as an administrative cost by another, he notes. Charities, says Johnston, "are doing what they think makes sense in the absence of rules."
► Ask if donations are tax-deductible; if
the answer is yes, demand a receipt bearing the charity's name and Revenue
Canada registration number. ► Be wary of mail appeals. Make sure the
charity and its purposes are clearly identified. ► Ask telephone canvassers to forward a
copy of the charity's annual report.
► Before succumbing to pictures of starving children or abused animals, ask what proportion of the donation dollar is spent
on administration and fund-raising. ► Information about charities is available from provincial consumer protection of-
fices, Revenue Canada or the Canadian Centre for Philanthropy, 1329 Bay St.,
"It's time academics and government started doing more research on the whole sector." Until that happens, the suppliers of aid and comfort will each have to make up the rules as they go. And charity will continue to begin at home—probably over the phone. □
Suite 200, Toronto, Ont., M5R 2C4. Both he and the Revenue Canada official say there can be no rational and effective regulation of the charitable sector until a lot more is known about it. "The field has never been seen as an important area of inquiry," Johnston says. Adds the Ottawa tax man:
Cancer lab researcher: 'doing what makes sense' WHIN CHARITY COMES CALLING Prospective donors to charity should heed the following suggestions from the Canadian Centre for Philanthropy and the American Institute of Philanthropy: ► Never give cash. Write a cheque payable to the charity, not the canvasser ► Insist that canvassers identify themselves and provide the charity's full


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Michael Schumacher health: F1 star conscious after stem cell treatment - what is this?
MICHAEL SCHUMACHER, 51, has undergone stem cell therapy since his ski accident almost six years ago and being placed into a medically induced coma. Reports have suggested he has gained consciousness due to the new aged therapy. What is stem cell treatment and could it save a life?
Michael Schumacher, the former F1 motor ace, has been undergoing pioneering stem cell treatment at the Georges Pompidou Hospital in Paris, France. Le Parisien reported an unnamed nurse in cardiology has announced he has regained consciousness. She reportedly said: "Yes, he is in my service. And I can assure you that he is conscious."
Medical researchers believe that stem cell treatments have the potential to change the face of human disease and alleviate suffering, according to Science Daily.
A number of current stem cell treatments already exists, although they are not commonly used because they tend to be experimental and not very cost-effective.
Schumacher has undergone the new aged therapy under the care of Professor Philippe Menasche, a cardiac surgeon specialising in stem cell research.
Professor Menasche is best known for performing the world's first embryonic cell transplant on a patient with heart failure in 2014.
Schumacher has been receiving stem cells to obtain an anti-inflammatory effect throughout his system. He was admitted to the hospital on Monday to undergo the pioneering stem cell surgery against his heart failure.
MS Trust explained: "Stem cells therapies are a type of largely experimental treatment. Stem cells are part of the body's normal repair system which replace damaged or dying cells where possible.
"Stem cells are unspecialised as they haven't developed to carry out a particular function yet.
"Each stem cell has the potential to develop into one of a number of different cell types depending on the body's needs at a particular time, such as becoming a nerve cell, a red blood cell or a heart muscle cell.
"Once they've undergone this change they're known as specialised cells and they can't go on to change again."
Michael Shumacher health: F1 star is conscious after undergoing stem cell therapy
The seven times world champion suffered brain damage after a ski accident almost six years ago. He spent six months in a coma after his accident.
His family have remained tight-lipped about his condition ever since. However, his health has steadily improved since he emerged from an induced coma.
The NHS said: "Stem cells are special cells produced by bone marrow, a spongy tissue found in the centre of some bones, that can turn into different types of blood cells."
Using your own stem cells minimises the risk of them being rejected by your body.
If the stem cells come form someone else, a donor, it's known as an allogeneic transplant, this is associated with a higher risk of complications than an autologous transplant.
MS Trust explains the six stages of stem cell therapy which include:
Stem cells are moved from bone marrow to blood stream using chemotherapy and synthetic growth factor.
The machine then collects blood and separates out stem cells.
The stem cells are the frozen ready to return to the body later.
More chemotherapy is used to fully or partially wipe out bone marrow and immune system.
Stem cells are then returned to the body using a drip.
The body recovers over a period of three to six months.
It's a very experimental treatment. Even with the heart, it's still experimental
Doctor Mahlotra a cardiologist, who used to work at Frimley Park Hospital NHS Foundation Trust said: "It's a very experimental treatment.
"Even with the heart, it's still experimental, we don't have any data to suggest it's beneficial yet. If it doesn't do any harm, why not give it a try?"
Research on stem cell therapy has garnered both excitement and controversy.
Scientists first started experimenting with transplanting cells into the heart in 1995.
In 2018, a study demonstrated that cells could be safely transplanted into patients with failing heart ventricles.
Shumacher's spokeswoman, Sabine Kehm, is yet to comment on the development.


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As you enter your race results or challenge miles/km, you will be able to see a summary here.
Please note: Your events will not appear on this page until you have logged a finish time for a race or at least one entry for a challenge. Folow the instructions below to enter your results.
Log Instructions
Races and Challenges are different types of events and are logged differently. Races are designed to be completed in one attempt (5K, 10K, half marathon, etc); therefore, you will only log one finish time. Challenges are designed to be completed over time through multiple sessions. Each event type will be found under its corresponding tab in the menu.
To enter a race time: Click on "Race Log
To enter miles or km for a long distance challenge: Click on "Challenge Log". Select your desired challenge and format from the drop-down menu for an Individual challenge or a Team Challenge. Please note that each challenge has a Miles and KM option.
Repeat these steps for each entry.
Instructions for teams and groups:
If you signed up multiple participants under one order/email address, you will need to add members to your Results account in order for them to gain log access. You and your group members will share one log account. Click on your name then "My Group" from the menu, then add your group members in the slots provided. Your group members will now be able to log their events under your account. (You must provide them your login credentials.) They can then log their events that you purchased by following the instructions above and selecting their name from the list prior to entering miles/km/finish times.
Team function (members working together to conquer one larger distance) is currently only available for the Invincible 1200 Miles in 2019 Challenge. Click on "Challenge Log" then "Team Challenge" for additional instructions to log miles as a team.


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Vodafone partners with Micromax for Rs 999 Bharat2 Ultra 4G smartphone
More bundled handset offers continue with now Vodafone and Micromax coming out with a 4G enabled smartphone priced under Rs 1000.
11:03 am
Key Highlights
- Customers will have to pay Rs 2,899 for the phone.
- Vodafone will be giving the customers cashback in their Vodafone M-Pesa wallets.
- Monthly recharges of Rs 150 will have to be paid for 3 years.
Vodafone and Micromax have come together to launch a 4G enabled smartphone – the Bharat2 Ultra, the company announced on Tuesday.
"We are delighted to partner with Micromax to democratize the 4G smart phones at a never before price of under Rs 999. This will help fulfil the aspirations of several million phone users across the country who desire a smart phone but couldn't afford one," Avneesh Khosla, Associate Director – Consumer Business, Vodafone India said.
"The smartphone 'Bharat2 Ultra' is a new smartphone under Micromax's successful 4G smartphone 'Bharat series'," Vodafone added.
The company said the phone has been priced at Rs 999 however this was inclusive of its cashback offer and excluding the purchase of monthly recharges on Vodafone's network.
"Under this partnership, the existing and new Vodafone customers will have to buy Micromax Bharat-2 Ultra smartphone priced at Rs 2,899/- and will have to simply do a recharge of at least Rs 150/- per month for 36 months.(The recharges can be of any denomination totalling to a minimum of Rs 150/- per month.) At the end of 18 months, users will receive a cash back of Rs 900/- and after another 18 months, a cash back of Rs. 1,000/- respectively, in their Vodafone M-Pesa wallets, enabling them to transact digitally or withdraw cash, as per their convenience," Vodafone said.
"At Micromax we want to give superior device experience in an affordable way and Bharat range is a testimony of the same, having already sold more than 2 million handsets," said Rahul Sharma, Co-founder, Micromax.
'Low cost' 4G enabled smartphones and feature phones have now set a trend in the highly competitive telecom sector. This trend was accelerated after Jio launched its JioPhone in July this year.
Airtel partnered with Karbonn to come out with a smartphone effectively priced at Rs1,399. Airtel is also offering the iPhone 7 for Rs 7,777.
Speaking about its new launch Khosla added, "It (Bharat2 Ultra) will also encourage current non users of 4G to upgrade and enjoy a richer user experience with Vodafone SuperNet 4G."
Get Latest Business News, Stock Market Updates and Videos; Check your tax outgo through Income Tax Calculator and save money through our Personal Finance coverage. Check Business Breaking News Live on Zee Business Twitter and Facebook. Subscribe on YouTube.


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Matt Hancock 'very worried' about new disease linked to COVID-19 leaving children in intensive care
Matt Hancock has said he is "very worried" after children have been left in intensive care from a new disease thought to be linked to coronavirus.
The health secretary said on Tuesday that experts are "looking into it with great urgency" following reports of a new illness in children.
Speaking to LBC, he said: "It's a fresh, new disease that we think may be caused by coronavirus and the COVID-19 virus.
"We're not 100% sure because some of the people who got it hadn't tested positive."
Hancock's comments follow a warning from NHS England on Sunday of a coronavirus-related syndrome emerging in children.
"We put out at the weekend a call across the NHS because some cases of this had been identified," said Hancock.
"This call essentially says to doctors in other parts of the country 'have you seen this condition?' and then they collate the information and find out what's going on."
Latest coronavirus news, updates and advice
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"We're doing a lot of research now but it is something we're worried about.
"What I would also stress is that it is rare. Although it is very significant for those children who do get it the number of cases is small."
One doctor told LBC presenter Nick Ferrari he was aware of about 10 children being taken to hospital with the new disease.
The NHS sent a letter warning of an "apparent rise" in admissions of children to intensive care as a result of the condition.
According to the Paediatric Intensive Care Society (PICS), the letter says: "In the last three weeks, there has been an apparent rise in the number of children of all ages presenting with a multi-system inflammatory state requiring intensive care across London and also in other regions of the UK."
It adds: "There is a growing concern that a [COVID-19] related inflammatory syndrome is emerging in children in the UK, or that there may be another, as yet unidentified, infectious pathogen associated with these cases."
Watch the video below
The NHS alert said a small number of children have shown symptoms similar to toxic shock syndrome and atypical Kawasaki disease, which affects children under five and can cause a high temperature, rash, swollen glands in the neck and red eyes.
It advised GPs to refer children with symptoms such as abdominal pain as a "matter of urgency".
The alert said: "There is a growing concern that a SARS CoV-2 (COVID-19) related inflammatory syndrome is emerging in children in the UK, or that there may be another, as yet unidentified, infectious pathogen associated with these cases."
Professor Simon Kenny, NHS national clinical director for children and young people, said: "Thankfully, Kawasaki-like diseases are very rare, as currently are serious complications in children related to COVID-19, but it is important that clinicians are made aware of any potential emerging links so that they are able to give children and young people the right care fast.
"The advice to parents remains the same: if you are worried about your child for whatever reason, contact NHS 111 or your family doctor for urgent advice, or 999 in an emergency, and if a professional tells you to go to hospital, please go to hospital."
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Update: This article was amended at 5pm on 28 April after the Department of Health and Social Care told Yahoo News UK: "The health secretary was referencing deaths we're aware of that sadly related to Covid-19 not the inflammatory syndrome. We are not currently aware of any confirmed deaths related to the inflammatory syndrome."
As a result, Yahoo News UK has taken all references to children dying out of the article.
Mr Hancock's initial comments were: "There are some children who have died who didn't have underlying health conditions. It's a new disease that we think may be caused by coronavirus and the COVID-19 virus. We're not 100 percent sure – because some of the people who got it hadn't tested positive – so we're doing a lot of research now but it is something that we're worried about."
Yahoo News UK is happy to make this amendment.


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The Pop Quiz, Monday is a fun little exam that we love to give to savvy business owners. The examination is not a surprise after all since the interviewee already knew about the questions in advance. However, we can always pretend and have fun with the scenario of a young entrepreneur sitting in class nervously biting on their pencil. They are ready to take a pop quiz on a chapter that they were supposed to read the night before. Instead, they played Metroid all night on their SNES (Oops, this was me in high school). The real purpose of the pop quiz is that this is a fun way to introduce business tips from real-world experiences that you can not learn in a classroom. We want to thank our entrepreneur for being a good sport and volunteering their time to answer a few questions to help our community grow from their knowledge.
I want to introduce you to our guest today who will be taking our Pop Quiz Monday.
Can you please tell everyone your name?
What is your job role?
Co-director at Le Wagon Melbourne
Tell us about your company?
Le Wagon is a coding school for creative and entrepreneurial-minded people looking to kick-start their career in tech, land a job as a software developer or product manager, or launch their own startup.
Originally launched in Paris, we have been in Melbourne for two years and are also based in 30 cities worldwide with a community of more than 3,700 alumni.
Le Wagon's curriculum is product-driven. It teaches you how to code, build products and to think and solve problems like a developer.
During the 9-week boot camp, our students learn how to build robust and beautiful web applications in teams, from the back-end all the way to the front-end or "full-stack."
They also learn to collaborate within a team of developers and adopt the conventional technical workflow followed by most successful startups.
What do you love most about your job?
I love that Le Wagon places a strong emphasis on entrepreneurial thinking and learning through collaboration. People tend to learn quicker through collaboration.
I've seen so many people come through the Le Wagon with no coding experience and in just nine weeks they've built web applications with really complex algorithms and features.
What motivates you to get up every day and go to work?
The awesome company of staff and boot campers, for sure! The Le Wagon crew is very international. Everyone comes from all walks of life, and the one thing that connects everyone is our love for coding.
How do your co-workers inspire you?
My co-workers are intelligent and humble individuals who deeply value self-development. As everyone on the team is an alumni of Le Wagon, the developer's problem-solving mindset is fostered throughout the business.
They are constantly challenging me to stay curious, learn, grow, adapt and find new ways to be better than the person I was yesterday.
How do you have fun at work (team building, pranks, etc..)?
We enjoy surfing, hiking, table tennis, hugging dogs, coding together and having awesome chats over drinks with the wider community at the co-working space that were based at.
What are some of the challenges of your job?
Working for a startup comes with many perks and challenges. The hours can be long with a heavy workload which can often lead to unhealthy working habits. Having worked in several startups, I've found it incredibly important to develop a sense of balance and mindfulness, knowing when to switch on/off.
What are some lessons learned from a past project that you can share with us?
Over the years working in many startups I've learned the importance of setting team and individual goals and knowing when it's time to pivot and adapt. Setting goals and reviewing them frequently is crucial. Not only does it increase productivity, but it also gives your job a meaning of purpose.
What advice would you give to someone who is starting in your industry?
If you are thinking of starting a career in tech, now is the time to get into it. Stay curious, keep learning and find satisfaction in solving problems creatively.
Thank you for taking our pop quiz today. You get an A+ for effort. You can learn more about our interviewee and their business by visiting them on the web:


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- This event has passed.
Lund University again coordinates Erasmus Mundus Asia Regional Lot
October 29, 2020 - 07:59
Event Navigation
On July, 17, 2012, the European Commission's Education, Audiovisual and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA) decided upon the 2012 round of the Erasmus Mundus Action 2 – Strand 1 – Partnership programme, EU's flagship programme aimed at promoting the attractiveness of the European Higher Education system and third country cooperation and partnerships. The new programmes for mobility activities will start during the academic year 2012–2013.
Lund University was again given the responsibility to coordinate one of the four Asia Regional consortium lots No 9. The consortium consists of a slightly different setup of European and Asian member universities and associates than in the previous Lund University administered Asia Regional Lot (see SASNET's information about previous and ongoing India and (South) Asia Regional Erasmus Mundus Action 2 programmes).
The European universities consortium members are: Lund University, Sweden; Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece; University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands; University of Antwerp, Belgium; University College Dublin, Ireland; University College London, UK; University of Milan, Italy; University of Pierre and Marie Curie, Paris, France; and University of Warsaw, Poland.
The Asian consortium members are: Peking University (joint coordinator), Fudan University, Tsinghua University, Xiamen University and Zhejiang University – all in China; Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET), Dhaka, and Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Bangladesh; Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal; University of Karachi, Pakistan; Mahidol University, Thailand; and University of Malaya, Malaysia.
SASNET has joined the consortium as an Associate Partner, along with the following other universities and institutes: Shahjalal University of Science & Technology (SUST), Sylhet, Bangladesh; Bangladesh Institute of Development Studies (BIDS), Dhaka; Hajvery University, Pakistan; PAK Education Society, Pakistan; The Chinese Academy of Social Sciences; and the Academy of Sciences Malaysia.
The budget for the consortium will be EUR 2.5 m, and the mobility flow (from Asia to Europe only) to at least 100 individual partnerships. Read the 2012-13 proposals announcement.
After a break of two years, decisions have also been taken regarding a separate India lot (nr 11), designed to promote academic collaboration between EU and India. Four consortia have been selected, each involving 20 partner universities in Europe and India. Each project will have a budget of EUR 3 m, and the minimum number of individual mobility flow should be 100 fully funded students/researchers/academic staff. The flow is only from India to Europe, not the other way. At least 25 % of the Indian universities in the lot should be located in what is identified by the Government of India to be less developed districts of the country.
More information will follow on all accepted Asia Regional and India Erasmus Mundus Action 2 programmes for 2012.