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1 May 2014 at 10.49am | 2 Comments
The aria 'Vissi d'arte' from Puccini's Tosca is one of the most famous moments in operatic history. But it almost didn't make it into the final version of the opera, as the composer was worried by its ability to bring the evening to a halt: it is a show-stopper in the most literal sense.
Of course, Puccini's concerns were well-founded. 'Vissi d'arte' always brings a performance of Tosca to a stand-still, not least because of audiences' enthusiastic applause. But opera fans have never seemed to mind. In fact, it has become one of the composer's most popular arias.
It comes mid-way through Act II. Tosca, a famous singer, has been summoned to the apartment of Baron Scarpia, the chief of police, where her lover, the republican Cavaradossi, is being held prisoner. Scarpia tells Tosca that Cavaradossi's life will be spared if she sleeps with him. At which point, Tosca begins to sing her despairing prayer.
'Vissi d'arte' is a heartfelt plea to God, one of a number of operatic prayers: 'I lived for my art, I lived for love, I never harmed a living soul… why, why, o Lord, why do you reward me thus?' For a moment the opera's otherwise relentless forward momentum is paused as we – and Scarpia – are held spellbound by her prayer.
The aria's show-stopping effect is in part due to how Puccini has structured the act. The key, tempo, dynamics and orchestration all change for the opening bar of the aria. After the heated exchange between Scarpia and Tosca immediately before – complete with martial snare drums – there's a huge rallentando and diminuendo, musically signposting the aria as a stand-alone moment. The tempo changes from a nippy allegro to the relative stillness of andante lento appassionato (a slower 'walking' pace).
While the aria has been a hit with audiences from the beginning – it was encored at the premiere performance – critics since have been more undecided. The Italian critic Luigi Torchi called it 'a curious dramatic improbability of no musical significance', but more recently the writer Julian Budden argued that 'at this supreme crisis it is plausible that the singer's past should unroll before her in an expanded moment: a life devoted to art, love and religious observance.'
The fact that the aria stands alone, almost as a performance within a performance, allows star sopranos the chance to experiment – and not just vocally. One of the most acclaimed Toscas was Moravian soprano Maria Jeritza (1887–1982) who, when performing the second act of the opera in the early 1900s, fell during the scuffle with Scarpia and found herself singing 'Vissi d'arte' from the floor. And – with Puccini's approval – that's how she performed it for the rest of her life.
Maria Callas shared Puccini's concerns about the aria's power to bring the opera to a halt and even argued that it should be cut. But thankfully for opera fans past and present, 'Vissi d'arte' remains at the heart of Puccini's Tosca as a show-stopping, heart-stopping paean to the power of art.
Tosca runs 17 February–3 March 2018. Tickets are still available.


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A Foreign Service whistleblower is doing her best but needs an IG's backing.
The U.S. Department of State has not had a permanent, Senate-confirmed inspector general since 2008. This is the longest vacancy of any of the 73 inspector general positions in government, and the effects of this are all but impossible to ignore. Whether it's the boondoggle that is the Jeddah New Consulate Compound, or the tragic attacks in Benghazi, the "systemic failures and leadership and management deficiencies" (as an independent panel called it) of the State Department are in need of repair. That's not going to happen until an IG candidate is found, vetted, and installed.
To understand the importance of the position, it's useful to look at what the job entails. A good inspector general is an agency's fail-safe. A bureaucracy will always operate in its own self-interest. Budgets, portfolios of responsibility, head-counts, and independence from oversight are prime motivators for any organization. Accordingly, the leadership of the little kingdoms within a bureaucracy will always work to protect and perpetuate themselves.
An inspector general, on the other hand, exists in parallel. He or she is an outlet for reports of fraud, waste, and abuse, and can investigate and audit offices and operations. Because he or she isn't part of the bureaucratic hierarchy, an inspector general can oversee an agency with impunity, give voice to those with grievances, and shine a light on questionable activities.
The Government Accountability Office has long been critical of the seemingly permanent vacancy of an IG at the State Department. In 2011, the GAO focused on one especially problematic habit at State: "Specifically, the appointment of management and Foreign Service officials to head the State [Office of the Inspector General] in an acting capacity for extended periods of time is not consistent with professional standards for independence. In addition, GAO reported that the use of Foreign Service officers at the ambassador level to lead OIG inspections resulted in, at a minimum, the appearance of independence impairment."
All of this is what makes the case of Joan Wadelton so interesting. She is a former Foreign Service officer who has blown the whistle on promotion irregularities at the Department of State. She is accusing the Bureau of Human Resources of the Foreign Service of criminal wrongdoing. Specifically, she claims that Foreign Service Selection Board results are being doctored for internal political reasons, with certain favored insiders receiving higher placement on promotion lists. Concomitant with less-qualified persons receiving preference in promotion are capable Foreign Service officers being passed over. The latter group -- collateral damage in this situation -- then faces a more severe problem. In Foreign Service, once you reach a certain position of authority, you must either be promoted or forced into retirement. In this case, State employees are being unfairly passed over, and then fired for not being promoted in time. The inevitable upshot is the aforementioned "management deficiency."
Read the rest of this article at TheAtlantic.com.

subset: commoncrawl


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Tokyo, Japan, November 13, 2010 - Defending champions Russia scored a convincing victory over the United States in a hard-hitting four-set semifinal (25-16, 13-25, 25-19, 25-21) to advance to the gold medal match at the 2010 FIVB Women's World Championship at Yoyogi National Stadium in Tokyo, Japan on Saturday.
Ekaterina Gamova topped the Russian scores with 22 points while veteran Liubov Shashkova and Tatiana Kosheleva registered 18 and 16 points respectively. American Destinee Hooker finished with a match-high 23 points. Three other USA players compiled double digits in the scoring charts with Jordan Larson, Foluke Akinradewo and Heather Bown notching 15, 12 and 10 respectively. The Russians held the upper hand in the blocking category (10-6) and edged their opponents 4-3 in the aces department.
In the first set, Russia dominated early, taking leads of 10-5 on Tatiana Kosheleva's spike, and then 15-8 as Logan Tom fluffed a set. Hooker's serve caught the line to make it 18-13, but the USA couldn't handle Russia's attack, and Gamova pounded a ball off a US defender to go 22-15. Evgeniya Startseva hit a service ace, and Liubov Shashkova's spike penetrated the US blocking wall, as Russia won the set by a convincing 25-16 margin.
In the second set the US raised their game, surprising many who expected Russia to blow them out after the first set. The US took leads of 8-7, 10-8, 15-9 and 20-10 on Hooker's spikes and strong serving by Akinradewo in particular. Russia seemed slow to react as the US effectively used fake spikers to throw off the Russian blockers. Unable to hit over Russia's wall of 2m blockers, Larson smartly whacked a ball off their hands to go up 22-10. Stranded at the back, Gamova couldn't react quickly enough as the US attack befuddled the Russians and the US won a rousing set 25-13.
In the fourth set, the US tried to stay close off Hooker's swooping leaps and swats from middle positions, as well as Larson's hits from the left wing but Gamova continued to pound the US defence. Kosheleva's resounding block gave Russia a 17-14 edge. Berg's hustle save kept the USA alive in a key rally, but Sykora couldn't track down the ball deep behind the court, and Russia were in command at 18-14. Gamova used all of her 2.02m to hammer a ball straight down for a 19-16 lead, and Kosholeva showed Russia's depth with two attacks from the left for 20-17 and 21-18. Shashkova won a bitter net battle to go up 22-18. Again, the US found Larson open on the left, as Russia loaded up in the middle hoping to stop Hooker. Gamova capped a dramatic rally with a monstrous windmill spike high above the net to give Russia set point at 24-19, and Russia's power lifted them to a 25-21 set win, and the match.


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text: This event has passed. The Celebration Choir is a passionate group of musicians who love to lift up God through vocal praise. Ages 16 and up are welcome to be involved. They sing regularly in Sunday services, and rehearse on Wednesdays. + Google Calendar+ iCal Export Details Date: September 21, 2016 Time: 6:30 pm - 8:15 pm Event Categories: Celebration Choir, Worship Arts Event Tags:Adults Organizer: Christ Wesleyan Church |Recurring Event (See all)Every week until May 31, 2017


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Podcast Reviews
- OK - I'm a Tech GeekJuly 22, 2017 by stevesleep from United States
I admit it. I love tech. I can't get involved in everything so it's great listening to Home Gadget Geeks. Keeps me updated on everything from blockchains to BBQ. Good job Jim and Mike!
- Great show, Outstanding HostDecember 2, 2016 by Ross Brand from United States
I am not only a fan of Jim Collison's podcasts, but I had the priviledge to be a guest on Home Gadget Geeks. Jim is a terrific interviewer and facilitiates informative and entertaining conversations. For anyone who wants to improve at podcasting, Jim is an excellent resource to follow and learn from. I highly recommend subscribing to Home Gadget Geeks and checking out the rest of Jim's content at theaverageguy.tv website.
- Great podcast for the home geekJune 28, 2015 by Bauerfett from United States
Listen to it weekly never a disappointment.
- Great showMay 23, 2015 by Wahoo Idea Network from United States
Always helpful
- guys talking techApril 11, 2015 by Astronomy Fan from United States
Pleasant voices covering intersting home tech topics, what's not to like? Recommended
- Good stuff for average guys like meFebruary 12, 2015 by RandyCantrell from United States
I'm not one of those subscribe-to-every-tech podcast out there kinda guys. I'm technically inclined, but bored easily with those high brow "I"m the smartest guy in the room and want everybody to know it." Jim is a terrific host and conversationalist. I can easily listen to Jim and his guests knowing I may be the dumbest guy in the room, but they always make me feel smarter for listening.
- Informative and entertainingOctober 6, 2014 by mavace from United States
There is a reason I look forward to this show each week and that is because it is the perfect mix of information and entertainment. Jim and his guests are great to listen to and I come away having learned something every week.
- VPNs for secure WiFi, ethical hacking, and more, great stuff!June 23, 2014 by tinkererguy from United States
I always enjoy listening to Christian, and the various guests Jim just keeps managing to find. You'll want to pay attention to this podcast, it requires it, in a good way!
- Great showAugust 4, 2013 by kwpheasey from United States
One of the best shows for the home pc enthusiast. I've been listening to it each week for over two years and I'd highly recommend it. Jim and team are very professional and the show is very informative.
- Great tech showAugust 14, 2012 by erik_the_tall from United States
Jim is a nut! A tech nut! Great show for folks looking to scratch their tech itch.
- Awesome show!August 12, 2012 by misslissa808 from United States
so sorry, seems i left a review under my husband's name of pytheas2.0! LOL! well, now he is subscribed :) but thanks for hosting a great show with a variety of information! I'm a photographer and no where near knowing about techy stuff, so maybe i'll learn a thing or two and impress my husband ;)
- Excellent Podcast!!July 31, 2012 by Rocky53382456 from United States
Easily a winner when it comes to knowing their stuff!! These guys always seem to know what I am thinking, and just put the info out there! Keep up the great work, Hands down, the friendliest bunch around!
- Take it from meJuly 30, 2012 by RichinFL from United States
If you have a connected home, you owe it to yourself to listen to this podcast. The tips, tricks and news save me tons of time from browsing a ton of websites constantly.
- Great!July 25, 2012 by Kaylley Williams from United States
Pretty Tech savvy. Thanks!
- Great InfoJuly 25, 2012 by Katja Wright Photography from United States
Very informative and also entertaining - keep up the good work!
- Great infoJuly 25, 2012 by NickAMoore from United States
Excellent show with information you can use.
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Informative and entertaining!
- Becoming My Favorite PodcastJuly 24, 2012 by awraynor from United States
I first hear Jim over at the HomeServer Show podcast. I quickly became interested in a home server after my desktop literally crashed (was knocked over) by my 13 year old. My wife then game me carte blanche to recover my wedding/honeymoon photos and then guarantee they were never at risk again. When he went out on his own at theaverageguy I made sure to listen every week. His cohosts are great, with Christian making me feel like such an underachiever. When you realize how young he is you will feel the same way too. I also like how the internet/podcasts have helped tech geeks from all over the world come together and discuss their common interests. Subscribe, you won't be disappointed.
- Great Tech ShowJuly 23, 2012 by GMSchmidt from United States
I am one of the rotational guest on the show. I enjoy my turn in talking about tech with the regulars and enjoy listening to the show weekly. I like that The Home Tech Podcast brings together a good group of people and is such a nice community to learn from. Thanks for the oppurtunities and the podcasts... keep them going.
- Good stuffJuly 23, 2012 by Busy busy 123 from United States
Great show; thanks for sharing your knowledge in an easy to understand way!
- Great PodcastJuly 23, 2012 by Samantha Beauchamp from United States
Found out about you from the Jpeg2Raw podcast awhile back! Great stuff here!
- Great show for the home tech nerd :-)July 23, 2012 by juanissimo from United States
Great show for the home tech nerd. :-)
- Excellent ShowApril 15, 2012 by Joe_Miner from United States
Excellent tech show for the average guy that provides the information we need.
- Home Tech delivered with fun.December 12, 2011 by ukhomeservershowgeek from United Kingdom
Great team of tech heads spun out from the homeservershow. Great listening for all home tech including home storage and pc based homes. One of my top 5 podcasts. I am in UK but all good from US and AUS perspective.
- The Home Tech PodcastOctober 25, 2011 by random.rich from United States
This is a great show! with an interesting mix of guests and topics. Jim pulls from his circle of tech friends to round out his weekly podcast discussions.


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Watering the Tulips
"But whoever has this world's goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him?" – 1 John 3:17
This is that time of year when most of us are hurriedly looking for gifts for our friends and family. Many (if not most) of these gifts are completely unnecessary and unneeded (hopefully not unwanted). I'm not in any way implying that it's wrong to gift somebody with something they only want, but don't need. Please don't take it that way. Those types of gifts are oftentimes some of the most precious. With that said, let us not forget that many at this time of year are hurting and in need.
The most natural thing to do is to heap gifts on loved ones this time of year. Certainly, this is a wonderful time of year to build family memories that last a lifetime. But while we are doing that, let none of us forget those that perhaps have no family…no income…no help. This is a wonderful time of year to share the blessings God has given you with those that have less. Not only that, through your giving, you will have the opportunity to minister to the spiritual needs of those you help.
The instructions to the early churches from the beginning were to help the poor (Luke 14:13). The Jerusalem council ended with instructions to help the poor (Galatians 2:10). Several of the epistles certainly had instructions on helping those in need, as we have before us today. There are a plethora of Old Testament passages which could be cited with instructions to help the poor. These instructions do not go away during this season every year. Oftentimes, these folks are needier because of the lack of funding from people that are spending their donations on other things (i.e. gifts for family and friends).
In no way am I suggesting that we should all forego giving gifts to our friends and family this holiday season. Though, if our hearts are in the right place, that may be good. This is just meant as a friendly reminder that those that had needs 2 months ago still have needs during December. Those that were struggling 2 months ago are, most likely, still struggling today. It would do us all well to weigh a need greater than a want. Though, in our society, that has become quite a difficult thing to do.
So, as you are shopping this year, perhaps consider finding a family less fortunate than yourself to help. Maybe this is a good year to begin helping those that find themselves in a bad situation. Perhaps it's time that we, as believers, make this a normal routine – not only at this time of year, but all through the year. Let us ever be found to be givers, for God has given us much!
Child of God, if you know God has gifted you with far more than you deserve, consider passing that on to those around you. You may find this to bring great rejoicing to the Spirit that dwells inside of you.
Watering the Tulips is brought to you by Sovereign Grace Baptist Church in Northport, AL. For more information, please visit www.sovereigngrace.net . "Your App to the Gospel" can be downloaded at iTunes for iPhone, iPad and IPod Touch, Google Play for Android, the Windows Phone Marketplace, and the Windows Store for Windows 8/8.1 based tablets and computers. Please download it today!


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Cabbage Rose Flower Extract
What: Rosa Centifolia Flower Extract is an extract of the flowers of the cabbage rose, Rosacentifolia, and is also known as Cabbage Rose Extract. This flower extract is said to hold skin-conditioning properties and is also used as fragrance.
Rosa Centifolia Flower Extract is less concentrated than Rose Oil, but contains mostly the same benefits and therapeutic effects. The flower extract is thought to be more beneficial in toning the skin.
Origin: Rosa Centifolia Flower Extract is obtained from the flowers of the cabbage rose.
Products Found In: Shampoo, conditioner, facial moisturizers and masks, hand cream, toner, body wash, baby shampoo and lotion, eye cream, makeup, soap, perfume, after sun products.
Alternate Names: Rosa Centifolia Flower Extract, Cabbage Rose Extract; Cabbage Rose (Rosa Centifolia) Extract; Extract Of Cabbage Rose; Extract Of Rosa Centifolia; Rose Water, Stronger (Rosa Centifolia L.); Rosa Centifolia Extract; Stronger (Rosa Centifolia L.) Rose Water; Rose, Rosa Centifolia, Ext.; Cabbage Rose Flower Extract; Absolute French Rose; French Rose Absolute.
Toxicity: Rosa Centifolia Flower Extract is generally classified as having low toxicity (EWG).


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Central to Sioux Falls Attractions
Easy access off I-90 and near Sioux Falls Regional Airport
Rise and shine for value at Days Inn Sioux Falls Airport. Conveniently located off I-90, our hotel offers the perfect Great Plains getaway, with easy access to downtown and exciting area attractions. Sioux Falls Regional Airport (FSD) is two miles away and we offer shuttle service for a nominal fee.


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You guys have had an opportunity to ask me—and sometimes Evan, and sometimes even the entire staff—any question you want in this Ask Kotaku segment. Today I want to try something a little different. I want to open the floor to you all to ask every one of us (that's on shift) anything you like.
So today we've got...myself, Chris, Evan, Fahey, Jason, Kirk, Patricia and Steve. Normally Stephen would be around, too, but he's been on vacation this week. Want to ask us about games? Our jobs? About chocolate versus vanilla? Where to get the best burritos in San Francisco? We can answer your silliest and most serious questions.
Hit the comments and we'll be on hand, live, to answer them. For about an hour or so.
To contact the author of this post, write to email@example.com or find her on Twitter at @tinaamini.


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This doesn't have the ring of an imperialist adventure about it somehow.
"The tide of war is receding," U.S. President Barack Obama continues to insist, plumbing the depths of the American capacity for self-delusion and finding it, so far, bottomless. Canada, meanwhile, proves no more useful to the French military operation that is kicking jihadist backside in Mali, but it turns out the French and their British and African allies don't need much help anyway. That's the subject of my Ottawa Citizen column this week: Vive la France.


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2003 Mopar Nationals - The One, The Only
The 2003 Mopar Nationals
Enthusiasts come to the Mopar Nationals for different reasons. For some, it's a business opportunity-a chance to sell merchandise, parts, services, and even magazines. For others, it's a chance to race their cars against nationwide competition, to have them judged, or just to put their pride and joy on display. Still others come just for a weekend of looking at cool cars and spending time chuggin' a cold one. But no matter what it is that brings the Mopar-crazed to Columbus, Ohio, every summer, the Mopar Nationals has something to offer everyone, and this year was no different.
More than 48,000 participants and spectators, and nearly 3,000 Mopars were in attendance. The 2003 Mopar Nationals featured 420 race cars competing for $16,000 in prizes, 36 judged classes (275 cars), a 1,754-space swap meet, a manufacturers' midway, a kids' Matchbox race, dyno and burnout challenges, prizes, seminars, and more.
Other specials this year included reserved Mopar-club parking, and, of course, the tribute to the Dart, which was the theme of this year's show. Seventy-two hours of Mopars, Mopars, and more Mopars. Not everyone can appreciate the spectacle of the Nats, but for those who eat, sleep, and breathe Mopar, it's the most wonderful time of the year.


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The Port of Pittsburgh Commission is developing an infrastructure backbone and suite of apps and devices that could refresh river transport technology across the country.
Airline passengers who find themselves 30,000 feet in the air can browse the Web, but if they traveled on a riverboat, they'd be out of luck -- something Pittsburgh is looking to change.
River vessels, used for both moving cargo and people, are often viewed as an outmoded form of transport, in part because of their reliance on old technology, such as VHF radio, with nary a Wi-Fi signal in sight. So to bring these river vessels up to snuff, so to speak, Pennsylvania's Port of Pittsburgh Commission (PPC) has launched its Wireless Waterways project.
Working with students from Carnegie Mellon University and with volunteers, the PPC built a backbone for marine technology and Internet applications that expands across Pittsburgh's three rivers -- the Monongahela, Allegheny and Ohio rivers.
About six miles of each river is covered by the network, which is connected by high-bandwidth Wi-Fi and a fiber backhaul. Beyond the three rivers, four nearby locks and dams are also connected with less complete coverage, said PPC Executive Director James McCarville. The entire system, he said, provides a backbone for both commercial and recreational boaters to have better information and make better decisions on the water.
"This is really opening up a new arena -- here we have a segment of the economy that the Internet hasn't been developed for yet," he said, adding that the PPC is providing the backbone for the river's Internet, while an interoperability test bed is offering outside companies the opportunity to test their equipment on the PPC's network. "We just finished our first week of testing."
The first week of testing applications and products on the river network included trying out 3D infrared glasses that helped barge pilots see through fog; robots that check the water for environmental pollutants; video conferencing functionality; real-time depth sounding; and vessel tracking.
Many riverboat workers spend two weeks out at a time, McCarville said, with little access to outside services or a reliable way of talking to their families. "With this type of network, not only can they talk to their families or balance their checkbook," he said, "they could take college courses or do all kinds of things."
Before this network was built, McCarville said that boats operated much the way people did prior to cell phones being commonplace. Most rivers run through rural or low-income areas, he said, where there's no Internet availability and cell phone reception is spotty.
"Well, that's what we've got with the barge transportation system -- we don't have a reliable way of verifying when and where people will show up," he said. "As a result, we've got a tremendous amount of lost time in trucks ordered, trains ordered for barges that don't appear on the predicted schedule. This is going to bring transparency to that schedule and take a tremendous amount of inefficiency out of the waterway intermodal connections."
Offering river-goers all of this data is the Wireless Waterways Maritime Situational Awareness Portal (MSAP), a Web-based GIS interface with layers of information offered by the PPC, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), and will eventually offer information from the people via crowdsourcing, McCarville said.
Through the MSAP, vessels can be tracked on a map with Google Earth overlays, with updates to vessel location every 30 seconds. Environmental layers like weather, water depth and water quality are also available.
The system can manage information for 1,000 vessels, and users can toggle layers that include the locations of things like locks and dams, marinas, terminals, businesses and government agencies. And this initial functionality is just the beginning, said McCarville, whose work with the PPC on this project was recognized by the White House, which named him a "Champion of Change" for his efforts.
"The government has an awful lot of data that is important to the safety and efficiency of the system, but they have no way of pushing that out to the industry," he said, adding that government and organizations won't be the only entities that use this network for new apps and systems, but the public will also be able to participate. Tow boats or recreational boats that want to allow their depth sounding equipment to be hooked into the system will provide commercial boats with updated information about the changing landscape of the river bottom after storms.
The hope, says McCarville, is that the system might someday be expanded across the entire country's riverways, so that the kinds of efficiencies and functionality gained in Pittsburgh can help the barge industry nationwide.
"This is the future. Barging is going to be here for a long time to come, and hopefully this will stimulate some public reinvestment in the locks and dams, which have been poorly maintained," he said. "The benefits are just beginning to be felt."


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A village in Manhattan
To Harlem, where the best jazz clubs are still an insider tip and soul food has a cult following. This upper Manhattan neighborhood is hot!
There could be troublemakers up there," says the photographer. Nevertheless, we walk up to the top of the rock in Marcus Garvey Park in Harlem. On the plateau, a young man looks up from his tablet computer and smiles. There's no one else here except for three young girls in a corner, dancing, the beat blaring out tinnily from their cell phone speakers.
Troublemakers – a Harlem stereotype that is deeply embedded in some people's minds, including those of many New Yorkers. While Harlem was still a dangerous place 40 years ago, its wide avenues witness only mock battles today: a dog sitter with an army of poodles forcing his way through a group of schoolchildren, businesspeople running an urban obstacle course, and joggers racing each other. Home prices – three million dollars here compared with typically ten million in the rest of Manhattan – have brought an affluent middle class of professors and company directors into the area. With them came Starbucks, Dunkin Donuts and H&M. Now, everybody's talking about the Whole Foods Market branch that will be opening soon on Harlem's main thoroughfare.
We look down on Harlem through the branches of the trees. It stretches from the top end of Central Park across most of northern Manhattan. It is bounded by the Hudson River in the west, and by the Harlem River in the east. Rows and rows of brownstones – hundreds of townhouses, all featuring the same rust-colored stone frontage and steps leading up to the front door – line its streets. The street canyons and skyscrapers typical of Lower Manhattan are far and few between. Like Malcolm X Boulevard, the avenues here tend to be wide, and most of the buildings have only four stories. Although Harlem is part of Manhattan and covers almost a third of the island, in some ways it has remained a village inside the city where few New Yorkers and tourists venture.
Jacqueline Orange, a former banker, moved to Harlem from Chicago 14 years ago. Within the first year of moving, she hit on the idea of introducing visitors to this underrated neighborhood. She knows many of the treasures Harlem has to offer: the cake shops that have been in the same family for generations; the rich soul food, the consumption of which makes you just want to lie down, pass out and dream of golden fields of corn. And, of course: the music! From the smallest basement dives to the best-known clubs, each establishment can tell a story or two of the famous performers who started out there. Orange, 54, is still running her Taste Harlem city tours today. Her most popular route is the Historical Food Tour, during which participants get to taste their way through restaurants and cafés.
Harlem was long considered a "food desert" because only a small number of supermarkets and restaurants dared to open there. That, too, has changed. In the U.S., the arrival of a Whole Foods Market is an unmistakable sign of gentrification. "The neighborhood is developing at breakneck speed," says Orange. Only recently, three sushi restaurants opened simultaneously, she says. "I wonder how long they will stay in business." She often cautions visitors that Harlem is a "bedroom community": Most of the shops are closed until lunchtime, some don't open until the afternoon. Many residents work downtown and only return to Harlem in the evening. Orange's friend and colleague John Reddick, 63, conducts Taste Harlem's historical tours. The architect has lived in Harlem since the 1980s and animatedly recounts the neighborhood's history. The most famous era is no doubt the Harlem Renaissance of the 1920s, which produced stars like Duke Ellington and Josephine Baker. At the end of the 19th century, millions of African Americans moved north from the southern states to Chicago, Detroit and New York to find work. Harlem saw an African-American middle-class establish itself there. It was from that movement that Billie Holiday, Louis Armstrong and other jazz greats emerged.
Today, every New Yorker has heard of two places in Harlem: Sylvia's, a restaurant that's been serving New York's best soul food for over 50 years, and the Apollo Theater, which still holds a regular Amateur Night on Wednesdays, where unknowns battle it out in a musical contest. The stage behind the red velvet curtain has witnessed many musicians test their effect on an audience. Hardly anyone had heard of Jimi Hendrix or the Jackson Five, for instance, until they appeared at Amateur Night. "Harlem is a better known brand than Chanel," Reddick is fond of saying "Ask who you like, everyone's heard of Harlem."
It was also creatives who spotted Harlem's current potential and started a trend. "I was looking for a neighborhood with more diversity," she Elizabeth Dee, 42, the petite blonde owner of The Elizabeth Dee Gallery, which like so many others, used to be in Chelsea. Just over four years ago, she left the established microcosm behind and set herself up in the 1000-square-meter loft of a former high-rise hotel at the intersection of Fifth Avenue and 126th Street. The large windows on both floors are still blacked out, graffiti covers the interior walls, and there's a neat pile of debris in the middle of the large ground floor. Even the New York Times deemed the established gallery's move to the north of Manhattan worth mentioning. "I received many excited phone calls from clients and colleagues," says Dee. In fact, she knows of 30 other galleries that are now also looking for suitable premises in Harlem.
Harlem is a better known brand than Chanel!
Harlem residents regard the new arrivals with some skepticism. Those who move here for the comparatively low rents cannot really afford to eat at many of the new restaurants, Orange suspects. The increase in demand is also reflected in rising rents. "The new businesses will only be a good thing for us if they let the locals share in their success," she says. Marcus Samuelsson, 46, agrees. He has two restaurants in Harlem and started a local food festival. In 2010, he opened the Red Rooster restaurant on Malcolm X Boulevard, two blocks away from the Apollo Theater. The celebrity chef has become something of an ambassador for Harlem in the media. He, too, was attracted by the neighborhood's intimate atmosphere: "I wanted to be part of a community. Harlem has always been a place where people chat on the street, where everyone feels like they belong." Now Samuelsson is also trying to support the community, by employing local people, for example. You can never get away from change, he says. But he believes that with the energy and resourcefulness of the people who live here, Harlem can turn this inevitable change into something positive.
Inside Harlem
Bill's Place
This small basement room was a speakeasy (an illicit bar selling alcohol) during the Prohibition era. Today, it hosts jazz concerts on Fridays and Saturdays.
Sugar Hill Market
Local artisans and designers sell their wares – including African-inspired pottery and fashions – at Sugar Hill Market in the La Maison d'Art gallery.
Studio Museum
The Studio, which opened in 1968, was the first museum in the United States to showcase mostly the work of Afro-American artists – and still does.
The Marmara Manhattan
Good location: Spend the night at the Marmara and you're only four subway stops away from the center of Harlem. In New York, that's right around the corner.


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Still open for orders and delivering safely at distance.
Next Available UK DeliveryTomorrow
A delightful gift of Veuve Clicquot Brut Champagne 75cl along with a box of Hamlet Belgian Chocolate Truffles (35g) and Belgid'Or Fine Belgin Chocolates (175g) all packed in a wicker hamper with leather straps lined with wood wool. All gifts come with a gift card with a message of your choice.
We are fully secured By Go Daddy.
Order before 4:00pm to get next day delivery in the UK.
All gifts come with a free gift card that you can add a message, at checkout.
Free Standard delivery
International Delivery available.
Excellent customer service.


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"Do me wrong, do me right…But don't let me be lonely tonight." – James Taylor
To fill the void or feel the void, that is the question. If you are like most people, my guess is that at one time or another you have tried to avoid feeling the heaviness in your heart, the sinking feeling in your stomach, and the empty feeling that accompanies loneliness. You've probably also discovered that it doesn't work. Even though it can be an unpleasant feeling, loneliness actually serves a useful purpose. It tells you that you're out of balance. If you learn to embrace your loneliness and feel the void instead of trying to fill the void you can discover what you need to do about it.
No one feels connected all the time. A child struggling to make friends at school, a man recently widowed, a homesick college student away from family for the first time, a soldier beginning her military career after being deployed to a foreign country, or someone recently divorced: Each might feel lonely despite being surrounded by other people.
But we do not have to suffer. We have choices. We can decide to take good care of ourselves when loneliness strikes. We can talk things out with someone, write, walk, or just sit quietly in our own good company. We can realize that although it hurts, we are probably not the only ones who feel lonely. We can realize that it is possible, through self-study and self-reflection, to discover what causes loneliness, when and how it happens, and what we can do to change it.
Loneliness, like hunger, needs to be properly fed. Some of us are emotional anorexics, unable to take in the love that surrounds us. We are literally starved for affection. We remain lonely.
Others are emotional bulimics. When we become emotionally overloaded we purge by throwing temper tantrums or dumping our unpleasant feelings on others, driving them away and depleting ourselves of the vital emotional nutrient of companionship. We remain lonely.
Those of us who are emotionally obese indulge our emotional cravings excessively. To avoid the pain and frustration of emotional emptiness, we give in to our impulses. Instead of taking care of ourselves, like children we rely on food, alcohol, drugs, shopping sprees, or other people to fill our void. We don't grow up. We remain lonely.
As we mature, we become able to fill our loneliness with a healthy diet of self-love. Like water, you cannot get too much of it. To find balance, we need the emotional protein of self-love to build emotional muscle and to aid emotional growth; we need the emotional fiber of self-love to cleanse our system of emotional toxins. We need generous helpings of the emotional fruits and vegetables of self-love to strengthen our emotional immune systems every day.
When we practice loving ourselves, with kindness, laughter, smiles, warmth, hugs, kisses, pats on the back, encouragement, music, dance, introspection, quiet time, private time, good friends, we will notice that our plates are usually full. On those rare occasions that they do become empty, once we feel the void, we can go to the pantry of our inner selves and find exactly what we need to fill the void.
When you feel lonely, here are some things you can do.
- Accept loneliness as a normal human experience that no one likes, and recognize the situation as a sign that something needs to change.
- Be still. Take time to reflect on why you are lonely and what you can do about it.
- Share your loneliness with someone. Don't keep it to yourself.
- Get involved in an activity that you can enjoy and that leads you to be with people. Join a book club, a biking club, or begin to practice yoga in a neighborhood studio.
- Reach out to help others in need.
- Enjoy your own company.


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Your tyres travel, on average, once around the globe and are your contact with the road. They are made of over 200 materials, including steel and artificial silk. And if they have the right pressure, they even save you money. Interested in more fascinating knowledge and helpful tips? You can find them here.
You will find what your correct tyre pressure is in your Owner's Manual and on your fuel tank cap. Depending on load, it may vary by up to 1 bar.
If pressure is too high, power transmission is optimal only in the centre of the tyre, which means less driving comfort, the tread wears down unevenly and your tyres do not last as long.
Tyre pressure gauges can usually be found at any filling station. Since November 2014, all passenger car and SUV models have also been equipped with a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System. Check the pressure when the tyres are cold, where possible, and do not reduce it when the tyres are warm.
A tyre loses about 0.1 bar in three months, on average. If the pressure falls rapidly, it or the valve may have a leak. Keep an eye on it. If you have any doubts, head off to your Volkswagen Partner.
This is how it works:
Models with an indirect system:
A tyre's inflation pressure has reduced considerably or a tyre has structural damage. Drive more slowly, avoid heavy steering and braking manoeuvres and check your tyres as quickly as possible. Is everything OK, but the light still illuminated? Have the system checked by your Volkswagen Partner.
Already with 4 mm too little tread, your tyre has much less adhesion on a wet road. Reason: The tread no longer dissipates the water correctly. Your tyre loses contact with the road surface. We therefore recommend 3 mm for summer tyres and 4 mm for winter tyres. Do your tyres have less tread? Don't take a risk - have new tyres fitted.
Running surface
1. Tread – for good road grip and for absorbing and dissipating water.
2. Jointless bandage – enables high speeds
3. Steel cord belt layers – optimise driving stability and rolling resistance.
4. Cord body insert – for shape retention even at high levels of interior pressure.
5. Inner liner – makes the tyre air-tight.
6. Side strip – guards against lateral damage.
7. Core profile – improves driving stability, steering and comfort response.
8. Steel core – ensures firm grip on the rim.
9. Bead reinforcement – supports driving stability and precise steering response.


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By Patrick
Yes, it's Christmas again, our favourite time of the year! Time for a break, for reflection, for meeting our relatives. Also, time for presents and great meals! We just love it!
As usual, it was an eventful year, but it was only the "prelude" to 2016, and what a crazy year this is going to be, oh boy, I don't really want to think too much about it right now. But whatever will happen, we all will experience it together here in our very special community at Politicalgates, and Kathleen and I are extremely happy that we have created this place, where we made so many friends. It is an island of sanity indeed, especially when sanity seems to be in short supply. But let's focus right now on the pleasures of Christmas, and Kathleen and I hope that you will all have a wonderful time!
In our Christmas post this year, I would like to present some videos again, and I would like to start with the traditional "Supermarket Christmas Adverts", which in the UK have been developed into some new form of art during the recent years. There is now a "battle" going on each year in the UK between the supermarket chains "Sainbury's" and "John Lewis" in particular for the best Christmas advert, and why not, if the results are really heart-warming and moving! You might remember "Monty the Penguin" and the "1914 Christmas Truce" from last year, and this year again, the Christmas adverts are very special. But be aware, they are going for the teary eyes, so have some tissues ready! :-)
Here is the lovely contribution from Sainsbury's this year - "Mog the Cat":
Please note that the narrator of this Christmas advert is Judith Kerr. She wrote the "Mog" picture book series, and also for example the book "When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit". She is now 92 years old, and she is the daughter of famous German theatre critic Alfred Kerr. The family left Germany in 1933. Watch the making-off, where she is featured.
John Lewis also has a very sweet Christmas advert for 2015 - "The Man On the Moon":
Also, there is a very nice "bonus" Christmas video from Sainsbury's I found. See what you can do with Christmas jumpers, or Christmas "pullovers", as I believe you would say in the former British colonies.:-)
So what else do we need for Christmas? Yes, music!!! What you absolutely need to listen to in order to get in the Christmas spirit are Christmas Carols performed by the King's College Choir Cambridge - incredibly beautiful:
Well, some Christmas comedy would also not be a bad idea! Jim Gaffigan is great:
Well, we do hope that you will all have a great, relaxing very enjoyable time over Christmas!
Christmas is the ultimate celebration of love, we should never forget this.
Our dear reader "Freebird4" posted this wonderful clip, which fits the Christmas spirit perfectly with its positive and optimistic message:


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A woman in one of my recent communications workshops asked, "What do you recommend for me? My problem is that I overprepare for my talks." Her choice of words labeled it a problem (perhaps because others had said that to her), but when I asked why she thinks she does that, she said, "I have to. I'm a perfectionist."
I've heard many women (and, as I think of it, few men) say they overprepare before speeches. My take: For many speakers, it's a form of performance anxiety, stemming from a real or imagined challenger, the sense that they're not really qualified to speak as an authority, or other fears. While I'm all about preparation as the key to giving an eloquent speech, when preparation adds to the pressure you feel, it's time to revise your pre-speaking plans. Here are some tactics to try:
- Remember that most speeches don't succeed due to nuances of content. While you're checking and re-checking your facts ahead of time, remember that your appearance and tone will have a greater impact on the audience than your words. Put another way: You can have the best content ever, but if your delivery or appearance fail to put it over, content won't matter to the audience.If you're an overprepared speaker, consider this: The time you spend going over and over your content could be spent learning new speaker skills, like handling tough questions extemporaneously, gesturing, speaking without slides or text, and more. Leave us a comment to explain why you overprepare, if you do, and what you've done to overcome it.
- Redefine what your speech can accomplish. Few speakers are given enough time to display every fact they know--so why feel compelled to memorize them all? Use your remarks to tell your audience the focus and scope: "There are so many issues we could consider, but today I'm going to take a close look at..." When questioners raise other issues, you can acknowledge them--but remind them of today's focus.
- Stop overpreparing to meet your own mark: If it's for you, the perfectionist, keep in mind that you can't win that contest--in a sense, declaring your perfectionism means you'll never be good enough in your own eyes. Try this trick: Deliver your next speech without the extra preparation, and see whether anyone notices, besides yourself. If you do fine without it, why keep doing it?
- Imagine your worst enemy in the audience: If you overprepare because someone might rise to challenge you, use your preparation time to imagine the issues and develop some calm, thoughtful answers. I train speakers to think of the questions they want, the questions they expect and the questions they fear--and the answers for each.
- Put stress relief into your speech preparation: Taking care of the speaker is the speaker's job, so make sure you are well fed, rested and hydrated before you speak. Don't drink stimulants or beverages that will dry out your throat, like caffeine or alcohol. Step into the restroom, hallway or a nearby stairwell to stretch your arms and legs and do some deep breathing beforehand.


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Through this notice,Apartamentos Playa, hereinafter "the accommodation", domiciled in27 de Febrero, Aligio Aparthotel & Spa, Las Terrenas, Samana, informs the users of the website of its privacy policy.
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In accordance with current legislation, it is informed that the personal data requested in our forms will be included in a personal data file whose owner and owner is the accommodation. Likewise, when filling out any of the forms with the personal data requested and accepting its submission, the accommodation is expressly authorized to process or incorporate in their automated files the personal data provided through the aforementioned forms, as well as all the data that are generated in relation to your participation or use of the different services offered on this website.
Unless expressly stated otherwise at the time of collecting them, all personal data that are collected are required to be essential elements for the management, maintenance and control of our contractual relationship. The non-facilitation of those will entail the impossibility of processing your request or providing the contracted service. Personal data will be collected exclusively for the purposes indicated in this Privacy Policy.
The user must fill in the forms with true, exact, complete and updated data, being the only one responsible for any direct or indirect damage or harm caused to the accommodation or to any third party due to filling the forms with false, inaccurate data, incomplete or outdated or with third party data. You agree to communicate any modification that occurs in them in accordance with the procedure established in section 4.
The data provided will never be used for a purpose other than that for which they have been transferred, and will be immediately canceled when they cease to be necessary for that purpose, except when a law establishes otherwise.
Regarding the contractual relationship: Manage the reservation you make and process your registration request as a client of the accommodation and the subsequent business relationship. In those cases in which it is necessary, additional data such as the age of the guests or health data may be collected if necessary to take it into account for the preparation of the stay (baby cots, food allergens …)
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Joshua necesitaba un nuevo diseño de logotipo y lanzó un concurso de diseño en 99designs.
Un ganador ha sido elegido entre 71 diseños de 8 diseñadores freelance.
He's a Big Lobster. A rock Lobster. An altogether new species. With some epic creation myth behind him, that hasn't quite been imagined yet. You see, I can't quite be sure what would appear if you were to cross a mystic sage, with a superhero and a normal everyday human being..can you?
He has represented a personal goal for me to physically lift upward of 100tonnes of granite for my business each week. He worked, but just as his original design would show- my right arm is now huge and twisted and I have postural abnormalities in perfect line with my created image. Weird stuff, hey?! lol. This needs to be corrected.
The Mossy Rock Lobster. Bush rock supplies
Im moving from bulk wholesale of moss covered bushrocks, into a more domestic market while transitioning into an image of 'exclusive living art'. But, its my pet business and the stepping stone to international export. This is more about entrepreneurship and having a business identity that I really enjoy while I do the harder stuff.
Ulitmately, i'd like some new images to consider for 'M.e.r.l.e' (The mossy rock lobster entity) that are more consistent with a real, balanced and healthy physique (more anatomically correct, while still appearing immensely rugged and strong). I am possibly leaning toward more stylised interpretations, but would still like to enjoy a very real dimension to his persona for future character development. Just go nuts with your imagination!
A little more babble about the character:
The mossy rock lobster is an empire building, magickal master Earth avatar entity. He can be called upon to undermine power structures and 'take the power back'. He works tirelessly to create heaven on earth by taking the lock and key central authority by redirecting attention back to harnessing natural energies and.He cant stand police, government or other corrupt power structures. he is selfless.
+++ and moving with purpose in that ocean of chaos potential shimmers the spiritseed of an avatar organism. The energetic expression of will destined to join forms with the immortal essence of the earth wisdom.
Merle is a symbiomorphic entity.
Merle is a moss avatar.. a living, consious lichen. can bend and master fog, dew, high humidity. is almost impervious to extremes in temperaturelichen is one of the most primitve yet advanced and essential organisms on earth..Anything epic, and totally superhuman is still welcome:)
The original:
He must have character! he must be alive. Brimming with a depth of purpose, exemplifying a selfless dedication to a sustainable earth and demonstrate a genius-application of charitable green business practice.
I was never quite happy with his face- compared to the body detail, it didnt seem quite to balanced enough to me. Id like something that says: daring, cheeky, strong and charming. someone who gets away with anything, but doesn't need to.
Think along the lines of superheroes, saints and sages. Think: combining these cosmic archetypes with a humans life mission.
The red still works, but anything close to those strong primary colours will be nice. Spacey blue, or dark ocean greens may also work.
Please note:
As an added incentive to the cash prize, I would dearly love to publish runners-up designs on my coming website. Anyone who contributes deserves extra attention, and a page for 'interpretations' of Merle will be saved for artists contact details and links placed on my site.
Here is my imageshack account.
http://profile.imageshack.us/user/bigjonmud/ If possible.. you now have access to colours that I would like used for the rock and moss and lichen aspects. Namely, from the huge curvy sacred rock. Please incorporate some of the actual red and grey tones from this picture. Very specific physique proportions and muscle shape for Merle. Examples of the jaggedness of the rock I sell (for the text shape) and a couple of superheroes for spice.
- A wussy little crab thing..
- Anything that is too friendly to be mean enough to change the world
- Something that looks like it couldn't lift its own claw, let alone the entire globe..
Descubre cómo funciona un concurso de diseño u obtén más información sobre nuestros servicios de diseño de logo.


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People ApS
Mosevej 12
3450 Allerød
Tel. 2844 3000
Geert Egger
Adm. direktør
We are convinced that most companies can get a lot more out of their people processes and infrastructure.
We believe that people are motivated, when they see the outcome of their efforts. Hence we insist on making our own results tangible.
We are ambitious in our work. Hence we will rather leave jobs to others than supply a result, which is just acceptable.
We have no plans for becoming big – but better and better.


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Flash Kellish has not received any gifts yet
Welcome Flash. Check out what is happening in Australia. A Prime MInister, who is female, unmarried and shacked up with her boyfriend, Atheist. We have gay parliamentarians, but no gay marriage, yet. But, this will probably be happening soon. It's called progressive, and civilized. It can happen.
The stats of other countries is really heartening.
By the by - can you fly?
Flash Kellish. If that isn't a superhero name I don't know what is.
Hey, thanks for posting up the link to USNAP I'll check it out.


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High on a mountain in Central Java, Borobudur Temple rises up towards the sky. In Buddhist belief, the closer you are to Heaven, the closer you are to the gods. And as you climb the steps of the temple, the jungle landscape of Indonesia revealing itself in every direction, you can understand how the people who built this masterpiece felt more connected to the ethereal than the earthly.
The world's largest Buddhist temple is made up of five large square terraces, with three circular platforms on top of them, and then a magnificent stupa at the very top. From a distance it is stunning… but close up the true magic is revealed with intricate carvings on the walls throughout the whole complex.
Borobudur was built in the eighth and ninth centuries but, at some point in history, was abandoned and left to the wilds of nature. For at least five hundred years the jungle was all that climbed the steps towards the celestial. Trees, vines, and animals overtook one of man's greatest creations and embraced the rocks again. The temple became hidden from the eyes of humanity.
It wasn't until 1814, when Java was under British control, that the English governor, Thomas Stamford Raffles, heard stories from local villagers about a mysterious and abandoned structure. He sent his people to investigate and for two months a team of 200 men had to cut down trees, burn vegetation and dig away at the earth to reveal the temple at Borobudur.
It's hard to understand how something this large and spectacular could have remained hidden for so long. But there's a certain enchantment in imagining you are the explorer who finds it for the first time in centuries.Climbing to the top of Borobudur Temple early in the morning in time for the sunrise, there are definitely only a handful of people here and there's a peace and serenity fitting for such a spiritual place.
As the sun rises in the sky, it's obscured partly by this morning's cloud cover but rays are starting to break through and illuminate the structure and the surrounding lands. It's still very quiet at the top of the temple and slowly it's becoming lighter. Around me, inside 72 small stone stupas, are 72 seated Buddhas. They turn from shadowy silhouettes into glowing images of divinity as the morning progresses.
The Borobudur Temple complex is the single most visited site in Indonesia, although the majority of tourists are Indonesians. The increasing numbers are presenting challenges and the authorities are looking at ways to manage any potential damage to the site. Millions of dollars have been spent on restoration and preservation over recent decades – particularly by UNESCO, which listed the site on the World Heritage List in 1991.
Something so intricate but also so large, abandoned for so many years, needs a lot of love and care. Being closer to Heaven doesn't make it immune from the hands of man.
- Anne -


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Today, Martin Ulvestad Østerdal, from the Norwegian Children and Youth Council (LNU) delivered a statement on behalf of the UN Major Group for Children and Youth to the plenary meeting of the Habitat III PrepCom1 at the UN Headquarters in NY.
Martin reminded the delegates attending the PrepCom1 about the importance of engaging and listening to youth, children and future generations since they are the ones who will inherit this new habitat agenda being discussed, and will be directly affected by decisions taken today.
He also reminded us that in order to tackle the challenges we face today, we really will need a tailored and ambition new development agenda. The way we plan our existing cities and address the issue of new cities will determine what SDGs are fulfilled and who is left behind.
The agenda needs to go beyond its focus on just Urban, and focus on an agenda for human settlements everywhere, and it needs to be inclusive of everyone, specially women and young people.
Finally, Martin called attention of all the government delegations attending the PrepCom1 that Youth Participation must not be a one off event. That we can no longer accept hand picked youth participation discussing topics defined by others as youth issues. Youth participation needs to be representative, independent and with emphasis on the whole political process.
The new urban agenda needs to maximise our holistic human development and minimise our ecological footprint. And the only way to achieve that is through dialog, participation and partnerships with the people living in the city/ these places, including youth and children. Nothing about us without us.
Read the full statement delivered today here!


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Neil Gaiman's 'American Gods' TV Series: HBO Explains Decision to Pass
Like many other beloved novels and comes, Neil Gaiman's 'American Gods' has long languished through the adaptation process, recently receiving second life as a potential TV series through Fremantle Media after HBO's initial option to adapt the fantasy novel fell through. And while we've no word on where the 'American Gods' might land next, HBO head Michael Lombardo has at least offered up the premium cable's reason behind passing on the property.
For those unfamiliar with 'Sandman' creator Gaiman's work, 'American Gods' follows ex-convict Shadow Moon, who partners up with mysterious con-man Mr. Wednesday (secretly a god himself), becoming embroiled in a battle between classic mythological gods who have fallen out of style, and the "new" American gods based on greed, technology and celebrity. A few years ago, HBO had in mind to develop the drama with Tom Hanks' Playtone, though the project eventually bottomed out.
Speaking to Vulture, Lombardo offered a bit of clarification on what ultimately broke the deal for their proposed adaptation:
I think we're all huge fans of the book, and I think the script just didn't — we couldn't craft the script as good as we needed it to be. I think we knew going in that it would be a challenge; every good book is a challenge to adapt it and find the level you need for it.
The bar is high now for great dramas. And to find that bar — we tried. So it was a huge disappointment […] We tried three different writers, we put a lot of effort into it. Some things just don't happen. We have to trust at the end of the day, if you don't have a star with a great script, you're just not going to go through with it.
As recently as February, an 'American Gods' series had fallen to FremantleMedia North America, who will executive produce the drama with Gaiman himself, for an unspecified network. FremantleMedia also has deals set up with A&E for their adaptation of French drama 'The Returned,' a developing drama with Spike, and formerly The CW's 'Tomorrow People.'
Hopefully we'll see the 'American Gods' brought to life one day, but what do you think? Are you comforted to know HBO wouldn't have adapted the novel without full confidence in the screenplay?


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It is of course quite possible that the way a piece of Monart is finished could relate to the shape being made, just as much as its chronology. Maybe this should be bourne in mind?
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I'd like to share a beautiful video with you all. At this time of year, I find Christmas, or whatever belief system you may have, is about a feeling. This feeling is common amongst all beliefs, and it is one of love and peace.
Dan Benor, of Wholistic Healing Research, collected some of the best images and thoughts into this lovely piece. Please notice the feeling of expansion and joy as you watch this. It reminds me that we are connected to something so big and meaningful, and that our daily problems are actually so minute. It gives perspective for life.
Give yourself this time to watch.
Warm wishes to you and your loved ones at this time,


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The following comprises actual phrases from actual stories written about a quarterback who last night performed the miracle of transfiguring his old ass off the injured list. These are taken verbatim.
The Vikings had the early momentum, when Favre made a miraculous recovery from a shoulder injury and suited up. Did he really have one of those miracle moments where he woke up and was feeling a lot better than he had been the day before? Somewhat miraculous, considering he was 100% out as of Saturday. Favre made some sort of miraculous recovery in the last 24 hours, another one of his miraculous recoveries. Cold, snow, wind, Favre making a miraculous recovery. A miracle, is what it was, only slightly less miraculous than what happened to Lazarus.
Amazing drawing via this amazing bit of American journalism


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Millennium Laboratory Stool with Casters All laboratory stools feature 18" contour seat, pneumatic height adjustment and black aluminum base. Mechanism:
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- 123 Cambridge Street
- Burlington, MA
- 781-273-5922
- firstname.lastname@example.com
June 5 2020
Search Results
Search results for "small cell wireless"
Police Tweet Play-by-Play of Possible Scam Investigation
The Burlington Police Department has been busy on social media, posting play-by-plays of an investigation into a possible consumer fraud targeting seniors.
Special Permit Granted for Burlington Beer Works Restaurant and Brewery
The Burlington Planning Board issued a special permit that allowed a craft beer brewery to move one step closer to opening in Burlington.
Selectmen Vote to Approve Continuing Talks with Medical Marijuana Group in Split Decision
The Burlington Board of Selectmen voted in a split decision to continue negotiations with a collaborative group that is seeking to establish a medical marijuana dispensary in town.
BHS Art Student's Design Won Contest Put on by Unique Sock Company
A Burlington High School art student's design was selected by a new and unique sock company in a competition and will now be featured on a line of their articles.
Motion to End Health Insurance Benefit for Elected Officials Defeated Without Discussion at BoS
A proposal to end the practice of offering health insurance to elected officials who work less than 20 hours per week on a regular basis failed to pass during Monday night's Board of Selectmen meeting.
Police to Conduct Stings to Fight Prostitution and Human Trafficking
The Burlington Police Department will be cracking down on prostitution.
Burlington Woman Charged With Killing 6-Month-Old by Shaking Child
A Burlington woman was arraigned today on allegations she murdered a child by shaking a girl under her care at an illegal child care facility.
A Look at the New Bedford Farms Ice Cream in Burlington
A new business has opened up at the 3rd Ave. development project.
Man Charged with Oxycodone Scheme with Burlington Connection Pled Guilty
A man accused of a prescription drug distribution scheme that had a connection to Burlington has admitted to wrongdoing.
Be Aware of These Common Holiday Scams
During the holidays we often do a bit of shopping, make some donations and basically spend more money than normal.


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Many Americans first learned about "white space" yesterday, not from one of its many advocates in the media reform movement, but from Brooklyn Congressman Jerrold Nadler, whose fear-mongering op-ed column on the technology appeared in the New York Times.
Nadler darkly warns that "Microsoft, Google and others are asking permission to use white spaces—free of charge—for millions of unregulated and unlicensed devices for personal networking systems that they would like to sell, including P.D.A.'s, wireless broadband devices and even toys."
What would the consequences of this sinister plot be for New Yorkers, and indeed Americans everywhere? These infernal machines "will probably cause havoc to TV viewers, theater goers and sports fans," Nadler writes. "Low-income households, the elderly and people living in multifamily buildings who don't have cable service and rely on antenna systems could be prevented from watching their favorite programs and from receiving important emergency information."
The Federal Communications Commission is indeed testing devices that would pick up temporarily unused television spectrum, or "white space," for low power use by unlicensed devices. Such receivers could enable entire neighborhoods to create audio and video sharing "community mesh networks" far more powerful than anything WiFi has offered so far. When the FCC authorized the testing and development of this technology in October of 2006, Commissioner Michael Copps praised the move.
"In many contexts," Copps wrote, "as with the enormously successful bands that support today's WiFi networks—unlicensed uses most closely approach the ideal of the people's airwaves, to be used in direct service of the public interest."
His fellow Democrat Jonathan Adelstein also hailed the decision. "Unlicensed services, with their low barriers to entry," Adelstein declared, "present such a great opportunity for the deployment of broadband offerings in communities across the country no matter their size or financial status."
As these comments indicate, it is the public that potentially stands to be able to access white space "free of charge," or at least a lot more cheaply than it presently gets broadband.
But as the FCC started testing these devices, the broadcasting industry whipped itself up into a veritable frenzy over white space, similar to the panic campaign that the National Association of Broadcasters launched after the FCC authorized more Low Power FM stations in the late 1990s. Indeed, in October of last year the Association for Maximum Service Television (MSTV) likened white space to an impending pandemic.
Why, the trade group asked the FCC in its filing, "would the FCC consider allowing millions and millions of these interference causing devices, like 'germs,' to spread throughout America with the ability to attack the TV receivers in people's homes, apartments, hotel rooms, hospital rooms, dormitories, etc., with no way for the owner of the TV set (the 'victim') to determine who was causing the 'illness' to his or her TV set?"
Nadler's op-ed piece, an extension of this sort of hysterical rhetoric, makes a meal of the fact that last year's FCC testing of a white space device did not go well; the prototype did not pick up TV signals. But opponents of the white space plan don't tell the whole story. Engineers concluded that the test unit had been damaged and have submitted new test models for inspection.
A Microsoft engineer met with the FCC on Wednesday to talk about the latest devices, "built largely to demonstrate detection and protection capabilities," according to Microsoft's February 6th filing. Members of the White Spaces Coalition continue to insist that there are no interference problems with the devices, and they simply seek fair testing.
But the campaign to demonize this promising technology among the general public has clearly been launched in earnest. Hopefully, white space's most prominent advocates will quickly respond to Nadler's screed.
We've been on top of the white spaces debate since the beginning. Hit this for a chronological listing of our coverage.


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Although Delta Private Jets charter flights to and from Kinston�s airport will continue for the foreseeable future, the operator�s corporate office in Kinston will close by the end of March.
Although Delta Private Jets charter flights to and from Kinston�s airport will continue for the foreseeable future, the operator�s corporate office in Kinston will close by the end of March.
Delta Private Jets� move to consolidate corporate functions in its headquarters in Hebron, Ky., will affect about 50 jobs at its Kinston office.
�Moving the operations into a single facility will result in greater cost savings and operational efficiency, allowing the company to react more quickly in the existing economic environment and compete more effectively long term,� Leslie Scott, a spokesperson for Delta Air Lines, Delta Private Jets� parent company, wrote in an email Friday.
Scott declined to comment on the number of jobs affected, and representatives at the Kinston office referred questions to the corporate headquarters.
The Triangle Business Journal of Raleigh recently reported most of the 52-person workforce could face layoffs, citing information provided by the company to the N.C. Department of Commerce.
Some could be transferred to the corporate headquarters at the Cincinnati-Northern Kentucky International Airport.
Delta Private Jets acquired Segrave Aviation in early 2010. Segrave had been operating charter flights out of the Kinston Regional JetPort since 1994.
Alanna King, spokeswoman for the Global TransPark, of which the Kinston airport is a part, said the Delta charter flights make up �a small portion� of the flights coming in and out of Kinston � she stated in an email they made up 4 percent of November�s flights.
There is no commercial air carrier at the Kinston airport, but the facility�s runways are heavily used by the U.S. military.
Mark Pope, Lenoir County�s economic development director, and King said Delta is contractually obligated to serve as the �fixed based operator,� providing fuel and other services for the charter aircraft.
Pope said the charter service �is a good piece to have� at the Kinston airport, because the traffic helps sustain Federal Aviation Administration infrastructure such as the control tower, vital things to have as Lenoir County officials work to attract regular commercial air service.
�The more planes that come in and out, and use our airport � that keeps the FAA solid,� he said.
Pope said the effort to attract an air carrier is continuing, and �some promising contacts� have been made. County leaders are working to ensure there is �buy in� from local residents, to show airline officials they would have solid ticket sales and other community support.
�We feel real comfortable with where we are, and we are taking baby steps with this because we want make sure it is right for the community and the eastern part of the state,� Pope explained.
David Anderson can be reached at 252-559-1077 or firstname.lastname@example.com. Follow him on Twitter at DavidFreePress.
For more information on Delta Private Jets charter flights from Kinston, call 1-800-813-7519 or visit segrave.com/CharterService.aspx.


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Steelers, James Harrison keep negotiating but could still part ways
Steelers want LB to take pay cut to remain in Pittsburgh
The Steelers continue to negotiate a new deal with linebacker James Harrison, but as the Tuesday start of free agency nears, there's a growing possibility the 2008 Defensive Player of the Year could find himself on the market.
The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette's Ed Bouchette reports the Steelers want Harrison to take a pay cut, but the two sides are struggling to reach an agreement. Harrison, who turns 35 in May, is due a $6.57 million salary this season and more than $7.5 million in 2014.
"We absolutely want to do this, we absolutely want to be in Pittsburgh," Harrison's agent, Bill Parise, told Bouchette.
The NFL's new calendar year begins at 4 p.m. Tuesday, which is when the Steelers need to be in compliance with the salary cap and a decision on whether Harrison returns will likely be made.
Harrison missed the first three games of last season while recovering from knee surgery, but he finished the season with a team-leading six sacks.


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If Barack Obama and others had read my blog on October 29, 2008, they would have known that Russia will invade Crimea to turn it into a frozen conflict.
Russia is not a European country. it is a Central Asian oil exporter that has invaded Europe — again. A variety of moves, from pushing renewable energy to helping Ukraine sign the Association agreement with the European Union, should now be made. Ukraine must join Europe.
Too bad I was ignored.


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MTC Announces Lineup for Ernst C. Stiefel '7@7' Reading Series: Theresa Rebeck, Stephen Adly Guirgis and More
Manhattan Theatre Club has announced the lineup for this spring's Ernst C. Stiefel "7@7" Reading Series.
The readings kick off Monday, March 4 at 7 PM and will be held on consecutive Mondays through April 15. The readings will take place at New York City Center - Stage I (131 West 55th Street). All readings are free and open to the public, but space is limited and RSVPs are required. To RSVP, please visit http://www.manhattantheatreclub.com/events/77-reading-series or call (212) 399-3000 x 4163.
Now in its 15th year, this rehearsed reading series is dedicated to the support and development of innovative new work. The Ernst C. Stiefel Foundation has supported Manhattan Theatre Club's reading series since 2006.
Several plays developed in 7@7 have gone on to full productions at MTC, including David Auburn's Tony Award and Pulitzer Prize-winning Proof, Joe Hortua's Between Us, Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa's Based on a Totally True Story, and Molly Smith Metzler's Close Up Space (Susan Smith Blackburn finalist).
7@7 plays that have been produced elsewhere in New York and around the world include Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa's Good Boys And True, Heidi Schreck's There Are No More Big Secrets, Stephen Adly Guirgis' The Little Flower of East Orange, Julia Cho's Durango, David Adjmi's Stunning, Naomi Iizuka's Strike-Slip, Adam Rapp's Red Light Winter, Theresa Rebeck's The Scene, Eric Simonson's Fake, Jonathan Caren's The Recommendation, The Civilians' The Great Immensity, and Rona Munro's Donny's Brain.
Below is the schedule for the Ernst C. Stiefel "7@7" Reading Series. Please note, each reading starts at 7 PM.
March 4: THE WHO & THE WHAT by Ayad Akhtar, directed by Gaye Taylor Upchurch
Zarina has a bone to pick with the place of women in her Muslim faith, and she's been writing a book about the Prophet Muhammad that aims to set the record straight. When her traditional father and sister discover the manuscript, it threatens to tear her family apart. With humor and ferocity, Akhtar's incisive new drama about love, academia, and religion examines the chasm between our traditions and our contemporary lives.
Ayad Akhtar's play Disgraced played at Lincoln Center's Claire Tow Theater (LCT3) in 2012, and will premiere at the Bush Theater in London in May 2013. Disgraced won the Jeff Equity Award for Best New Play in 2012.
March 11: ODYSSEY ROOM by Greg Pierce, directed by Daniel Aukin
Three estranged friends meet at their condemned middle school on the day before its demolition. A little more than memories come out of the woodwork in this vivid, honest and haunting tale.
Greg Pierce's play Slowgirl was the inaugural production at Lincoln Center's Claire Tow Theater (LCT3). The Landing, Greg's musical written with John Kander, will be produced at the Vineyard Theatre next season.
March 18: THE MORNING THE SUN FELL DOWN by Jonathan Caren, directed by Evan Cabnet
Brandon returns home to get his mother's engagement ring so he can propose to his girlfriend and move on with his life. But there is a massive hole in the ceiling and a rift in his family that threatens to draw him right back in. An insightful, hilarious and timely story about the power of grief and the strength it takes to move on.
Jonathan Caren has had his work produced and developed at numerous theaters, including The Roundabout Underground, Ensemble Studio Theater, The Lark, New York Stage and Film, The Keen Company and The Old Globe.
March 25: TUMACHO by Ethan Lipton, directed by Leigh Silverman
In a small frontier town in the Old West, the men are dropping like flies at the hands of no good gangster Big Bill Yardley. But when the demon ghost Tumacho rolls back into town, all the rules will change. An uproarious tale about cowboys, coyotes, and chronic halitosis. Yeehaw!
Ethan Lipton's plays include No Place To Go (Joe's Pub); Red-Handed Otter (Cherry Lane); Luther (Clubbed Thumb); Goodbye April, Hello May (HERE); The Barber and The Farmer (3LD); and 100 Aspects of the Moon (The Ohio).
April 1: PROVENANCE by Ben Ockrent, directed by Trip Cullman
After the death of their mother, four siblings gather at their family home to divvy up the property. When one of them reveals the truth behind an old family painting, alliances are formed and battle lines are drawn. A suspenseful drama about the true price of art and family.
Ben Ockrent is a British writer who writes for television and theatre. His play Honey was nominated for an Olivier Award.
April 8: MRS. HUGHES book by Janine Nabers and music and lyrics by Sharon Kenny,
directed by Kate Whoriskey
Sylvia Plath's and TEd Hughes' tempestuous marriage is one of legend. Fueled by passion and poetry, Sylvia was certain she had found her soul mate. But Ted's wandering eye could not be stayed, and the love triangle that ensued was destined to end in tragedy. This poignant musical explores the ardent affair that catapulted these poets into history.
Janine Nabers is a 2012 New York Theatre Workshop playwriting fellow. She is working on commissions from Playwrights Horizons and Berkeley Repertory and is a Lila Acheson Wallace playwriting fellow at Juilliard.
Sharon Kenny is a songwriter who has performed sold out shows at Joe's Pub and Le Poisson Rouge among other venues. She received a MAC nomination for her piece "Leaky Ceiling."
April 15: FIVE MILE LAKE by Rachel Bonds directed by Daniella Topol
Jamie lives a quiet life in his small Pennsylvania town, fixing up his grandfather's old lake house and pining after Mary, his troubled coworker. When his brother comes back to town with his new girlfriend, Jamie's peaceful world is turned upside down. A quiet story about those who stay and those who go away.
Rachel Bonds is an Affiliated Artist of New Georges, a Member of EST's Youngblood, an Alum of Ars Nova's Play Group, and a recent winner of the 2012 Sam French Short Play Festival.
Under the leadership of Artistic Director Lynne Meadow and Executive Producer Barry Grove, MTC has become one of the country's most prominent and prestigious theatre companies. Over the past three decades, MTC productions have earned a total of 18 Tony Awards and six Pulitzer Prizes, an accomplishment unparalleled by a New York theatrical institution. MTC has a Broadway home at the Samuel J. Friedman Theatre (261 West 47th Street) and two Off-Broadway theatres at New York City Center (131 West 55th Street). Since January 2011, Mandy Greenfield (Artistic Producer) has taken the lead in programming and execution at MTC's Off-Broadway home. Renowned MTC productions include Venus in Fur; Master Class; Good People; The Whipping Man; Time Stands Still; The Royal Family; Ruined; The American Plan; Come Back, Little Sheba; Blackbird; Translations; Shining City; Rabbit Hole; Doubt; Proof; The Tale of the Allergist's Wife; Love! Valour! Compassion!; A Small Family Business; Sylvia; Putting It Together; Frankie and Johnny in the Clair de Lune; Crimes of the Heart; and Ain't Misbehavin.'
For more information on MTC, please visit www.ManhattanTheatreClub.com