text:
*Shiller is a Research Associate in the NBER's Asset Pricing and Economic
Fluctuation and Growth Programs and a professor of economics at Yale
Do our existing institutions for investment, hedging, and insurance allow individuals to manage risks to their living standards effectively? How effectively can people manage risks to the various components of U.S. household wealth? Figure 1 shows a breakdown of U.S. national wealth in 1996 ($114 trillion), which here includes human capital, or the present value of labor income, which usually is ignored in wealth computations. Human capital accounts for 73.7 percent of estimated national wealth; financial assets account for 16.2 percent; real estate wealth accounts for 7.9 percent; and consumer durables account for 2.2 percent.(1)
Of these major components, only financial assets--16.2 percent of the total--have well-developed liquid markets that allow ready hedging and diversification. There are no hedging or diversification vehicles for human capital. For real estate, particularly single family homes, there are no large liquid markets: One cannot hedge the risk in one's own home and cannot invest easily in a truly diversified world-wide real estate portfolio.
Can one use existing financial markets to hedge risks to total wealth? Hedging income risks seems to entail shorting one's own country's stock markets in massive amounts, as Baxter and Jermann argue.(2)But we have no assurance that there will be a positive covariance between financial asset returns and returns on claims on aggregate incomes. Bottazi, Pesenti, and van Wincoop estimate that the covariance has been small and negative for U.S. aggregates.(3) In terms of managing real estate risk, note that existing financial assets tied to real estate--real estate investment trusts and securitized mortgages--are not representative of overall real estate price risk and do not provide a vehicle for hedging of local real estate price risk. To hedge risks, it is much better to write risk management contracts directly in terms of the risks to be hedged.Macro Markets
In my 1993 book Macro Markets: Creating Institutions for Managing Society's Largest Economic Risks, I argue that markets could be set up for long-term claims on aggregate incomes.(4) These could be privately managed futures, options, or swaps markets for national incomes, or they could be markets for government national income-denominated bonds. Although such markets are unknown today, they could become extremely important. Given the relative importance of nonfinancial components of national wealth, they could someday be much larger and more important than existing financial markets.
These markets are important because of the uncertainty that people face with regard to risks to national income. Based on data for 49 countries, Stefano Athanasoulis, Eric van Wincoop, and I estimated that there is an 89.4 percent probability that the unweighted average real per capita GDP of the seven best performing countries relative to that of the seven worst performing countries will triple in 35 years.(5) Thus, we can expect to see substantial winners and losers in terms of national income, and the livelihoods of individuals in these countries will be very different, depending on the fortunes of their country.
To reduce the effects of such risks, the social security trust funds of each country could invest in national income-denominated debt of foreign countries and could borrow by issuing its own such debt. Social security benefits then could be indexed to world income, allowing optimal risk management for retirement income.(6) Private pensions of course could do the same kind of hedging, if such debt or analogous markets existed. All of these options depend on creating national income-denominated national debt or on other forms of long-term claims on incomes, wages, or salaries.
Indexing national debt owed to foreigners to national income would prevent countries from falling into difficult situations if their economic growth were not as high as expected. Instead, foreign investors would bear some of the national income risk as part of a diversified portfolio. Such risk sharing might be very important for countries with high foreign debt and uncertain national incomes.
Markets for long-term claims on each country's income might not need to be set up initially, since countries that correlate well could be grouped together and their securities traded together, much like index funds today trade groups of stocks. A small number of markets for swaps between major groups of countries also might be very useful.(7)A market for a perpetual claim on the income of the entire world, the biggest market of all, also might be advantageous.(8)
Potential problems do exist in setting up these markets for claims on aggregate incomes. One problem is that countries might misrepresent their national income statistics. This could be minimized by internationalizing or privatizing the function of constructing national incomes. National income statistics as currently constituted may not be ideal for the settlement of contracts; there might be alternative definitions used that handle demographic changes somewhat better.(9) The "moral hazard" problem--that people will not work hard if they know their incomes are insured--is probably not severe, because the macro markets will be settled on aggregate, rather than individual, incomes.Real Estate Risk Management
Figure 1 shows that real estate wealth constitutes a small but substantial fraction (7.9 percent), of estimated total wealth. However, real estate is an important part of wealth for individuals late in the life cycle. Vent and Wise report that in 1991 the median level of housing equity held by U.S. families whose heads were 65 to 69 years old was $50,000, about half their median social security wealth, and far more than their median employer-pension wealth ($16,017) and their median personal financial assets ($7,428).(10) Thus, fluctuations in real estate prices have a real impact on the livelihoods of many people.
Although it is possible today to insure real estate against fire and other catastrophes, hedging against real estate price declines generally is not possible. People could hedge their local real estate risks if futures and options markets were created, based on contracts settled in cash on regional real estate price indexes.(11) For example, futures markets for both residential and commercial real estate in each major metropolitan area could be devised, allowing people in each area to take short positions in the futures market corresponding to their area, thereby hedging their risk. Efforts in the United Kingdom to start futures markets for U.K. real estate were undertaken by the London Futures and Options Exchange in 1991 and by Barclay de Zoete Wedd in 1996, but there have been no attempts yet in the United States or in other countries. The announcement in January 1998 of new real estate futures contracts by the Chicago Board of Trade is not really about real estate price futures: These futures will be listed on the Dow Jones index of real estate investment trusts.
With or without real estate futures, options, or swaps markets, retail institutions could help owners of real estate to manage their risks better, and we see beginnings of some such new institutions, including the Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECK) program sponsored by the Federal Housing Administration. However, the HECK and similar programs are not designed with only risk sharing in mind. Other programs could do a better job of protecting homeowners against price fluctuations. For example, limited partnerships could enable individual homeowners to purchase a fraction of their home, with the remainder sold to investors.(12) Alternatively, insurance companies or mortgage lenders could attach index-settled home equity insurance policies to their contracts with homeowners.(13)
Any such new retail institutions for real estate risk management must be designed carefully, though. Concerns should include the homeowner's strategic selling of the house or cancellation of the policy, moral hazard risk, and risk of poor maintenance of the house. Still, it may be possible to design new institutions that reduce real estate owners' risk substantially.(14)Inflation Indexation
Some of the risks to the components of wealth are attributable to inflation-induced shifts in the real values of nominal payments that are specified in contracts. Total nominal contracts are more important than financial assets in national wealth (as shown in Figure 1) because they exclude most inside debts, and because interpersonal contracts have no net value in national wealth. Of course, nominal assets are important for many individuals, especially for the elderly. Although inflation might appear to be vanquished at the moment, we can never be sure that it will stay down in future years, so the risk of inflation remains. Indexed debt protects people against the risk of inflation by tying debt payments to inflation.(15)
In January 1997, for the first time in U.S. history, the U.S. Treasury, following the example of many other countries, introduced indexed federal government debt: the Treasury Inflation Protection Securities program(TIPS). TIPS represents a significant financial innovation, but even though public acceptance has been described as encouraging relative to expectations, the public actually has purchased very little of these new securities, amounting to roughly 0.5 percent of the U.S. federal debt. Other countries' experiences indicate that the public is often only marginally interested in purchasing indexed debt, even in times of high inflation.
My study of public acceptance of indexation in the United States and Turkey (a country with high inflation) demonstrates many reasons for public apathy toward indexation. They include lack of appreciation of inflation uncertainty, lack of understanding of the nature of redistributions caused by unexpected inflation, and simple difficulties in understanding the math involved in indexation formulas.(16)
Public acceptance of indexation might be enhanced if the government (or an international agency) creates a new unit of measurement of value that itself is indexed and encourages its widespread use. The government (or agency) need only define an indexed unit of account, like the unidad de fomento introduced in Chile in 1967. To promote the use of this unit in setting prices and defining payments, the government could publish regularly an exchange rate between the unit and the currency and initiate its use by denominating indexed debt, tax brackets, and the like in these units. If people then chose to quote prices and payments in terms of the units rather than the currency, they automatically would be indexing them to inflation. Indexed units of account are a realistic way to encourage widespread indexation, and they are virtually costless to create.
The exchange rate between the indexed unit of account and the currency might be defined so that the unit has desirable properties in terms of its real value.(17) The real value of a unit can be made constant by tying the unit to the consumer price index, or the value of the unit can track labor income. When the government defines indexed units of account, it could consider their effects on money illusion and price rigidity; for example, wage units might be biased downward relative to wage income in order to control for certain inflationary pressures. Properly designed indexed units of account might not only encourage better risk management, but also might diminish the price stickiness that is, by some accounts, an important source of macroeconomic instability.(18)Outlook for Institutional Change
Important changes in our institutions usually are adopted only in times of national crisis. For risk management purposes, this is unfortunate, because people must always purchase insurance before, not after, a risk is realized. The issuance of indexed government debt in the U.S. in 1997 during a period of low inflation is a remarkable example of adopting an important financial innovation without waiting for a crisis. Although the public acceptance of the indexed government debt in the United States has been somewhat disappointing so far, there is still a good chance that eventually it be widely accepted. In the future, we must consider carefully what other new institutions are feasible, offer real advantages, and can be started effectively, if only on a small scale initially. Once new institutions are introduced, we might expect that their public use can then grow gradually over time.
Breakdown of estimated $114 trillion U.S. national wealth into components.
|Human Capital
|Financial Assets
|Real Estate
|Consumer Durables
Source: Author's calculations using national income, stock market and Board of Governor's of the Federal Reserve System's Balance Sheets for the U.S. Economy
2. M. Baxter and U. Jermann, "The International Diversification Puzzle is Worse than You Think," American Economic Review, 87, 1997, pp. 170-80.
3. L. Bottazi, P. Pesenti, and E. Van Wincoop, "Wages, Profits, and the International Portfolio Puzzle," European Economic Review, 40 (2), 1996, pp. 219-54.
4. R. J. Shiller, Macro Markets: Creating Institutions for Managing Society's Largest Economic Risks. Oxford, England: Oxford University Press, 1993.
5. S. Athanasoulis, R. J. Shiller, and E. van Wincoop, "Macro Markets and Financial Security," unpublished paper, Iowa State University, 1998.
6. See R. J. Shiller, "Social Security and Intergenerational and International Risk Sharing," paper to be presented at the Carnegie-Rochester Conference, April 1998.
7. See R. J. Shiller and S. Athanasoulis, "World Income Components: Measuring and Exploiting International Risk Sharing Opportunities" NBER Working Paper No. 5095, April 1995.
8. See S. Athanasoulis and R. J. Shiller, "The Significance of the Market Portfolio," NBER Technical Working Paper No. 209, February 1997.
9. See R. J. Shiller and R. Schneider, "Labor Income Indices Designed for Use in Settlement of Risk-Management Contracts," NBER Working Paper No. 5254, September 1995, and forthcoming in Review of Income and Wealth, 1998.
10. S. F. Vent and D. A. Wise, "The Wealth of Cohorts: Retirement Saving and the Changing Assets of Older Americans," NBER Working Paper No. 5609, June 1996.
11. See K. E. Case, R. J. Shiller, and A. N. Weiss, "Index-Based Futures and Options Markets in Real Estate," Journal of Portfolio Management, 1993.
12. See A. Caplin, S. Chan, C. Freeman, and J. Tracy, Housing Market Partnerships, Cambridge, MA: MIT Press, 1997.
13. See R. J. Shiller and A. N. Weiss, "Home Equity Insurance," NBER Working Paper No. 4830, August 1994.
14. See R. J. Shiller and A. N. Weiss, "The Role of Real Estate Price Indices in Home Equity Conversion," paper presented at the AREUEA Meetings, Chicago, January 1998.
15. See J. Y. Campbell and R. J. Shiller, "A Scorecard for Indexed Government Debt," NBER Macroeconomics Annual, Cambridge, MA: MIT Press, 1996.
16. See R. J. Shiller, "Public Resistance to Indexation: A Puzzle," in Brookings Papers on Economic Activity, 1, 1997, pp. 159-228.
17. See R. J. Shiller, "Indexed Units of Account: Theory and Assessment of Historical Experience," NBER Working Paper No. 6356, January 1998.
18. See R. J. Shiller, "Designing Indexed Units of Account," paper presented at the American Economic Association meeting, January 1998.


text:
In most cases, a neck becomes the first victim to age. Signs of ageing appear sooner on the neck as compared to face. Lines, saggy skin and excess skin may appear on your skin that makes your neck and overall appearance undesirable.
Platysmaplasty is a neck lifting surgical procedure that is helpful in reducing the lines, excess skin tissues and loose-hanging skin from the neck. It gives you a firm, smooth and toned neck and simultaneously improves definition of jaw line.
Platysmaplasty Candidates
Usually, men and women who opt for a platysmaplasty are above 40 years. But saggy skin or neck bands may appear on your neck due to genetic reasons, sun exposure or weight gain. You can opt for a platysmaplasty treatment if;
- You want to have a smooth neck
- You want to have a well-defined and toned jawline
- You have lines and bands around the neck
- You have excess skin and fatty tissues around the neck
- You have saggy skin
- You want permanent results
Preparing for Platysmaplasty
In an initial consultation with your surgeon, you will be given a set of instructions to follow before the surgery. You must follow those instructions to get expected outcomes from the treatment. Some of the common instructions given are;
- Share your complete medical history with your doctor. Let him know about any previous medical conditions you have been through or any treatments you have had.
- You will have to stop smoking at least 2 weeks before your surgery.
- Discontinue use of aspirin or other anti-inflammatory medications at least a week prior to the surgery. These medications can cause bleeding.
- Buy the medications that your doctor has prescribed for before and after the surgery.
- Wear loose and comfortable clothes on the day of your surgery.
- Arrange someone who can drive you back home from clinic when your surgeon feels you are good to go home. If possible, ask someone to come over because you may need help for at least initial two days after surgery.
- If the surgery was performed on your face or neck, you may need other items, such as extra pillows to elevate your head while you sleep.
Platysmaplasty Procedure
Platysmaplasty may take 1 or 2 hours to be completed. At first, general anaesthesia would be administered. Your surgeon will make incision, however he may make an incision under the chin or make incisions behind the ears to access the platysma muscle. The excess skin is removed and redraped tightly.
A small amount of muscle can be trimmed, if the need be. Afterwards, the stitches are made. You can go home after the effects of anaesthesia are gone or you be asked by your surgeon to stay overnight so he can monitor your condition.
Platysmaplasty Recovery
- You are likely to experience discomfort and tightening of the neck for initial few days.
- You will be able to continue normal routine in less than a week.
- Your surgeon will remove the stitches in 7 to 10 days.
- You would be recommended to avoid rigorous physical activities for few weeks.
Post-Op care
You must follow the instructions given by your doctor to make the recovery process smooth and easier without any complications.
- You may experience certain pain, discomfort and tightness in the neck after the surgery, but your surgeon will prescribe pain medication that helps in reducing the discomfort.
- You will be asked to avoid aspirin and other anti-inflammatory medications.
- Your surgeon may suggest you cold compresses to make recovery period easier.
- You will be asked to keep your head elevated with the help of extra pillows for a week or two after the surgery.
- You must not take off your bandages without asking your surgeon. Your surgeon may recommend you to change few dressings or you can clean them.
- You will be given a topical gel or ointment to remove the appearance of bruises.
Platysmaplasty Results
The results of the platysmaplasty are immediate, you will see the difference after the bandages are removed. The results are long lasting and natural looking.
Finding a Surgeon
You can get a sleek, smooth and slim neck that will have a great impact on your overall appearance with platysmaplasty. But most important factor behind the successful surgery is an experienced plastic surgeon. At Dubai Cosmetic Surgery, a team of renowned plastic surgeons and specialized staff awaits to you attend your needs. To get a free consultation with one of our plastic surgeons, you can fill in the online form.
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subset: commoncrawl


text:
Room 1A
Ohlson Field Dedication - pp. 12,13,14
The handwritten copy of the speech given by Charles Morse at the dedication of the field is enclosed in the jacket containing page 11.
Ohlson Field Dedication - p. 11
Top Picture: Albert Ohlson, Mr & Mrs. Tyson and Elinor Ohlson
Center Picture: Margie Cogswell, Evelyn Hoffman, Grace Morse, and Janet Shepardson
Bottom picture: Helen Fredette, Greta Spratt, and Barbara Forbes
Ohlson Field Dedication- p. 10
Top Left picture: Townspeople at the dedication
Top Right picture: Oscar Ohlson, Ralph Witherell, and Charles Morse in front of the Historical Society Building
Bottom picture: Janet Shepardson and Harriet Irving (know as Aunt Harriet)
Ohlson Field Dedication - p. 9
Top Left picture: Presentation of the sign by Rodney Whipple and Charles Alden
Top Right picture: Sign naming the field
Bottom Left picture: Ann Miner, ?
Bottome Right picture: ?, George Day and Brian Gale
Ohlson Field Dedication - p. 8
Top left picture: Richard Lincoln, ?, Seated second row: Rev. Jean Peterson, Senator Robert Wetmore, Gil Bliss, Director of MA Forests and Parks, Carroll Holmes, ?
Seated front row: Silvio Tencati and Charles Morse
Top right picture: Rep. Carmen Buell, Jean Peterson, Sen. Robert Wetmore and Gil Bliss
Bottom left picture: Silvio Tencati, Charles Alden, ?, Jean Peterson, ?
Bottom right picture: Lee Dresser, Charles Alden
Ohlson Field Dedication - p. 7
Top left side picture: Charles Morse, Rodney Whipple, and Charles Alden
Top riight side picture: State Representative Carmen Buell, Silvio Tencati
Bottom left side picture: Carmen Buell, Ann Miner, Nancy King and Charles Alden
Bottom right side picture: Nancy King and Ann Miner
Ohlson Field Dedication - p. 6
Final page of the typed speech given by Charles Morse at the dedication of Ohlson Memorial Field - 1985
Ohlson Field Dedication- p. 5
First page of typed speech given by Charles Morse at the Dedication of Ohlson Field - 1985
Ohlson Field Dedication - p. 4
Top Left Picture: Charles Morse, main speaker
Top Right Picture: Carroll Holmes, Regional Supervisor, DCR
Bottom Left Picture: Charles Morse and Charles Alden
Bottom Right Picture: Ann Miner and Nancy King (Daughters of Oscar Ohlson) and Charles Alden
Ohlson Field Dedication - p. 3
Picture # 1 Charles Alden - Forest & Park Supervisor
Picture # 2 L to R George Day, fire chief and Charles Alden, F & P sup.
Picture #3, 4 and 5 show the presentation of the flag poles, flags and the pledge of allegiance.


text:
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Regular user
Washington DC
135 Posts
I've been having a little trouble with my coin in bottle trick. Sometimes when it drops into the bottle it break apart and the secret is lost unless I notice it before anyone else and run into a back room saying "opps...umm..be right back...". Then I take it out and fix it and go on. I read soemwhere that double banding it helps and I've done that but it still happens sometimes. Maybe use a shorter bottle so it doesn't have so far to fall? ANy ideas?
PS A great way of giving the coin out for examination is: when taking it out of the bottle have anouther, legit, coin already palmed in that hand and toss it up and someone. EVERYONE follows the coin in the air leaving the other hand VERY free to dump the gaffed one in your pocket.
Danny Hustle
Inner circle
Boston, MA USA
2393 Posts
Get Billy McComb's audio CD or the transcript from the audio for "The Professional Touch" . This trick was a real reputation maker for Billy and at one time he carried and index of over 50 gaffed coins!
A REAL worker and a great CD. Because Billy worked much of the time as a caberet performer, all of the content of this CD applies to the street.
There are two CDs in the set I can't remember if it is on disk one or two but Billy goes into great detail of this trick.
Well worth the investment.
"MT is one of the reasons we started this board! I'm so sick of posts being deleted without any reason given, and by unknown people at that." - Steve Brooks Sep 7, 2001 8:38pm
©1999-2014 Daniel Denney all rights reserved.
Regular user
Washington DC
135 Posts
ahhh but I already bought the coin and have such a very limited budget for an ever increaseing amount of books, videos and CDs. I just need help keeping the one i have from falling apart!
Harry Murphy
Inner circle
5346 Posts
There is an easy solution for this one. Double the bands! Also, don't expect the bands to last forever. Change them for new ones. These things are cheap and won't bankrupt you.
The artist formally known as Mumblepeas!
Joe M. Turner
Loyal user
Atlanta, Georgia
251 Posts
Is "The Professional Touch" CD the same as the booklet Billy McComb put out by that name several years ago?
Joe M. Turner
Danny Hustle
Inner circle
Boston, MA USA
2393 Posts
On 2002-09-11 20:41, Joe M. Turner wrote:
Identical. It was audio first and transcribed pretty much word for word into the booklet. Then somebody started knocking out CDs. Both CDs are a great value boat loads of info from a real worker.
The second CD is not transcribed in the booklet.
But, Billy specifically goes into how to get out of the broken band situation in one of the CDs it is very clever.
"MT is one of the reasons we started this board! I'm so sick of posts being deleted without any reason given, and by unknown people at that." - Steve Brooks Sep 7, 2001 8:38pm
©1999-2014 Daniel Denney all rights reserved.
Regular user
Washington DC
135 Posts
I'm all for buying books and stuff but I can't afford $10 for a clever solution to this problem. Does anyone else who uses the coin have a nifty patter solution or any other kind they wish to share for free? Thus far I just run away and bring out a new trick.
Much thanks,
PS I know he's try'n to make a living and stuff but I'm just a poor student!! Besides its a relativly small tip I'm looking for.
Eight Spades
Elite user
Ohio (northwest)
482 Posts
Here's your solution. It sounds like you're actually dropping the gaffed coin in from the top. Try this sometime. Make a real coin apparently penetrate the bottom of the bottle by having the gaffed coin already loaded. Just hold the bottle by the neck horizontally. If you want a detailed description of this presentation email me, I'll send you it.
"Tricks are only the crude residue from which the lifeblood of magic has been drained." -S.H. Sharpe
New user
60 Posts
First of all, if your coin is falling apart when it is inside then I think it is time to invest in a "better quality" product. The coin should be able to withstand a lot, I can throw my quarter out the window and it would still stay in tact. I personally don't have a wonderfully cut one, but the coin does manage very well and the bands last for months, so my advice is, buy a new one or get J. B. Bobo's Modern Coin Magic for a better routine
best of luck,
Danny Hustle
Inner circle
Boston, MA USA
2393 Posts
On 2002-09-15 08:21, Magicman01462 wrote:
If you do the coin in bottle 20 times a day for 4 or 5 days per week sooner or later the band is going to bust on you.
It is knowing what to do in these situations that separates the hacks from the magi and has nothing to do with the quality of the product.
"MT is one of the reasons we started this board! I'm so sick of posts being deleted without any reason given, and by unknown people at that." - Steve Brooks Sep 7, 2001 8:38pm
©1999-2014 Daniel Denney all rights reserved.
Inner circle
2134 Posts
I encountered the same problem and its not your coin. Its the bottle you picked. Mine started from using a small size vermouth bottle. Same coin I used before without a problem. (sacajawa folder) I thought this light green bottle would be perfect because of the color, not too dark and easy to see the coin. Wrong. The neck of the bottle was shaped funny and had thick and thin bands of glass so as the coin expanded, it hit a thick spot in the glass and one of the wings kicked out, every other time. Double banded it, went over several different texts. Same problem every other time. Traded the green bottle for a medium sized champagne bottle and never had the problem again. Bands also come in different sizes. You may be using a half dollar band on a quarter. I have to use quarter bands on the dollar and change them alot. One of these two should fix it.
...think not that all wisdom is in your school. You may have studied other paths,but, it is important to remember that no matter who you are or where you come from, there is always more to learn.
Loyal user
Centerville, OH
240 Posts
My experience has shown a "Corona" beer bottle is perfect. It has a long slender neck and is clear to show the coin. Double banding is good as well. I even soak the bands in Armor All prior to installation.
"Magic" is merely an illusion, but "Perception" is reality!
Flores Magic
New user
Denver, CO
54 Posts
Here is an easy solution for your folding coin. Find a local orthodontist and ask them if you can have a bag of 3mm(1/8) Elastics. This is a thicker rubber band. It will be a little tuff to get on but they work like a charm.
" Pick a card, any card "
New user
63 Posts
Another place to get thicker rubber bands from is your local hardware store, ask them if they have any small, black o-rings, the smaller the better, they need to be black, as the black ones are made of rubber, and are strechy, the clear ones are neoprene, unstrechy and won't work.
Install the o-rings as you would the normal elastic, it will last much longer, as the rubber is higher quality.
Andy G
Regular user
Terra Australis
180 Posts
When it comes to choosing a bottle, look for one with a shallow angle on the neck, if the bottle has a pronounced shoulder the coin is difficult to get out. Smirnoff ice and breezer are bad bottles- corona, miller, becks are good in the UK.
Regular user
105 Posts
To me it sounds like you'r droping the coin from the top and letting it smash to the bottom. Tilt the bottle slightly and let it slide to the bottom.
Whit Haydn
5449 Posts
Billy McComb's work is well worth the price. Not only do you get the real pro's stuff on the coin in bottle, but a lot of other useful magic and tips as well. Billy is one of the true workers who has done everything, and known everybody, and never forgotten a thing. How much is it worth? It's really only a couple of pizzas and beers in cost. How important is the trick to you? It pays for itself in tips...
I've found that the old-fashioned cut coins with the two wavy cuts hold up much better and last much longer than the "profile" cuts so popular now. The profile cuts will often catch in a broken position even if the band doesn't break.
Paul Diamond used to sell a wonderful coin that was basically the three piece folding coin, each piece with its own locking shell. The shells covered the "rim" of the coin, and also held the band in place really well. These never seemed to break. Anyone know where I can get one of these?
Also, Richard Himber had a folding coin with a loose fitting shell over the whole coin. This enabled him to stick a paper circle on the folding coin side, which a spectator could initial. The paper covered the folds, and the shell acted as the second coin. The spectators saw their signed coin, which they had held, inside the bottle.
Loyal user
Centerville, OH
240 Posts
Guess you could use a folder with an expanded shell, correct?
"Magic" is merely an illusion, but "Perception" is reality!
Nae Blis
New user
60 Posts
How about this approach to the bands slipping... I have the symetrically folding 3-in-1 quarter and have not tried this yet. What if you added some sort or removable adhesive(oxymoron?) to the groove of the coin near the cuts, so as the folding occurs the bands are not able to simply pop out the side. Should be able to stand up to some serious abuse then......
Maybe a putty of some sort would do the trick nice and simple.
It takes a big man to cry...... but it takes a bigger man to laugh at that man.
Regular user
Sunny So. California
111 Posts
I use a Corona bottle.. Never a Problem,
Also.. Look at the 8 edges (cornors) of your coin to see if there is any Burs that may Cut your bands. Especially at the seam of the pieces.. Replace and Double Band your coin...
Good Luck
FuFanu.. Two Cards Torn & Restored...
Are You Ready ?! Its here !!
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text:
My mother asked me the other day if I would ever want to own a driverless car. My answer, of course, was an enthusiastic yes, but she couldn't understand why. However, driverless (or self-driving) cars will change life in many ways for many, many people, and if you want to be prepared for the changes, it's best to think ahead and try to foresee what changes will occur. How much will this invention transform our lives and our society? You might be surprised!
The first change is that people who lose the ability to drive will still be able to get around, making the lives of caregivers easier, because people who are blind or otherwise unable to drive will have much more independence. So, retailers take note: start implementing signs in Braille! People will be able to go to the doctor, or the store, whereas before they would have to depend on public transportation or the kindness of friends or family. Older people will also be able to socialize with others longer and more often than they would have. Young people (even children) will be able to summon a driverless car to go to events, doctor or dentist appointments, and other activities without the need for parental supervision. Apps that summon cars for children will need a parent's authorization. Those who have had their driver license suspended will regain their mobility and independence.
InsuranceCredit: Public Domain
Insurance Policy from 1796
Another big change will be in the insurance industry. Except for comprehensive insurance, automobile insurance will be a dinosaur, because every accident will either be the fault of a driver in a regular car, or the fault of the software or manufacturer. The insurance companies are not preparing for this eventuality yet, but it will be upon us very soon.
CommutingCredit: public domain
Traffic Jam
Public Domain
People who use self-driving cars could use their commuting time for pleasure or work, instead of wasting it with the hassles of driving. Road rage incidents should decrease, and traffic jams might well be a thing of the past!
With enough efficiency, toll roads will become less used, and may disappear altogether, and land devoted to highways might be turned to other uses.
As driverless cars become more common, it will become possible to have more shared cars. While car-sharing is starting to take hold, the problem now is getting to the car itself. Self-driving cars will be available on call, without human intervention. With fewer cars manufactured, the automobile industry will face another set of challenges. Fortunately, automobile factories can be retooled to produce other kinds of machines, and the skills acquired in auto manufacturing can be transferred to other industries.
PetroleumCredit: Public Domain
Solar Panel
Public Domain
While the petroleum industry is already experiencing a major decline, with vastly improved mileage standards looming on the horizon, and the increased efficiency of fewer traffic jams and better driving habits, this is an industry that will suffer a major downturn. In fact, most driverless automobiles will probably be electric, so there will be an ever-decreasing need for traditional fuels.
Shopping and ShippingCredit: Public Domain
Cash Register
Public Domain
With the advent of driverless cars will come driverless trucks, too. Shipping will no longer require human intervention on the roadways; less time will be spent in transport, and shipping costs will be greatly reduced. Pizzas and other hot food can be delivered without drivers (no more tipping!) and costs will be driven down with fewer employees. More retailers will adopt the "just in time" delivery strategy, and stocks will be kept to a minimum; retailers might well have only a sample to show customers, with the item delivered to their door by drone or self-driving car.
Of course, the truck-driving industry, truck stops, trade schools that teach truck driving, and associated industries will suffer a downturn, too. However, there will still be a need for mechanics!
Law Enforcement
Gavel and Law Books
Public Domain
Another industry that will undergo a dramatic transformation is law enforcement. Traffic tickets, DUIs, and many other violations will be rare or completely absent. Many towns which obtain a substantial portion of their revenues from moving or non-moving violations will be forced to seek other sources of revenue. Police officers will be reassigned or downsized. People who have had their license suspended, or would never get a license, will be able to use driverless cars to get where they are going.
The driver license issuing authorities will also undergo a transformation as licenses become rare. The exam to receive a driver license may become much more stringent, as self-driving cars move into the majority of vehicles on the road.
Pedestrian and auto-related fatalities and injuries will decline rapidly, because driverless cars are far less likely to be involved in accidents. Many personal injury lawyers will be forced to seek other lines of work, and that, of course, means fewer television advertisements for such lawyers that we will have to endure. Television stations depending on this source of revenue will have to seek other sources.
Crime is likely to change, as well. With no opportunity to speed in a getaway car, and the self-driving car being easily trackable, we are likely to see a tidal shift in the types of crimes committed, and law enforcement organizations should start preparing for this eventuality.
Other Transportation-Related Industries
Rules of the road will become obsolete. There will be no need for traffic signals, stop signs, lane stripes, or any of the kinds of rule-keeping tools we have now. Of course, these industries employ people, so these workers will have to find other types of employment.
Taxi, limousine, and personal driver services will be greatly curtailed. While some people may continue to hang on to a personal driver, these services will be a luxury.
ComputersCredit: Public Domain
Computer Keyboard
Public Domain
As is usual nowadays, the computer software and hardware industry will experience a dramatic increase. More advanced GPS technology, more sophisticated mapping and route planning, better algorithms for dealing with unexpected road conditions, and better integration of travel amenities like hotels and restaurants will be needed. Processors will be faster to deal with real-world driving conditions, and this will gradually expand into existing processor markets.
There will also be increased demand for more automation, and while some of this is already available (such as turning on your lights inside when you pull into the driveway), as cars begin to communicate with each other (don't worry, there's really no fear of a robot car uprising), keeping track of employees and family members will become easier.
Amazon Price: Buy Now
(price as of Jan 1, 2016)
What Next?
While it's never possible to foresee every change that will happen in society as new inventions become available, it is clear that self-driving cars will cause an upheaval in our lives. By thinking about the possible consequences of the transformations we will experience, we can better prepare ourselves for what will happen next.


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Thank you again to all of our attendees who joined us on our webinar! We hope you enjoyed learning more about our new Channel Contributors role in Studio.
Below you'll find a recording of the webinar, Q&A, and links to helpful articles in our Knowledge Base.
Webinar Recording
Please first submit your information to register. After submitting, you will be automatically redirected to the webpage to watch the on demand recording.
Note: a few users experienced intermittent issues hearing our presenter's audio during the webinar. We are evaluating offering a second session - please email firstname.lastname@example.com if you'd like to attend another live session.
Knowledge Base Articles
\Learn more about how to use Channel Contributors from our how-to articles here:
- What can \Channel Contributors do? See \Channel Contributor Role and \Permissions Table
- \How do Channel Contributors create content? See \Direct Publishing on Mobile
- \How do I give Channel Contributors access? See Add New Studio Users
- \How do I review Channel Contributors at the Channel level? See Create or Edit a Channel
Additional Questions? Email email@example.com
These questions were asked during this webinar. Please review our documented answers below.
- Do the channel contributors get an email when you give them permissions?
It depends on the permission level they started with. If you are giving someone Studio access for the first time (either upgrading an existing Member or adding someone brand-new via Add User), yes, they will receive an automated email invite to join Studio which states who invited them and gives them a link to Studio.
If you are downgrading someone's existing Studio status to the Channel Contributor role, they will not receive an email.
- What permissions do CCs have?
In Studio, Channel Contributors can:
- create, publish, and archive content via Planner
- review post metrics within Planner
- set up smart campaigns
In the Employee Experience (web and mobile),Channel Contributors can:
- automatically publish content to assigned channels
- review metrics on their own posts
- Can channel contributors only submit content through the mobile version of the app? vs. the publisher portal?
No, Channel Contributors are able to directly publish content to their assigned channels from both the mobile app and in Studio.
- I'm on app version 3.6.0. I am an admin but I can only contribute an image, video and link. Is this available on an upcoming version?
Publishing Notes is available in version 3.6.1 of our mobile app, and Articles are available in 3.6.5. Direct publishing for Channel Contributors, Publishers, Program Managers, and Administrators is available in version 3.7.
- The link post had comments and sharing options turned on - how can we control that in mobile? Are those channel settings?
These settings are configurable within Studio but cannot be changed during the direct publishing process on mobile.
- In the author filter, is that just authors that have contributed to the channels you have contributor access to?
The author filter that displays to Channel Contributors will show them any user who has access to publish to that channel.


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As I expand my awareness in this lifetime, I am able to perceive that the universe is intelligent, creative, All There Is, alive and as I awake to it, I am able to see that it speaks to me. I found that one of the ways that The All There Is communicates is through the synchronicity of numbers, not the coincidence of seeing numbers but the purposeful, sychronistic seeing of certain numbers at the same time every day. This is happening to me now. I continue to see 444 at 4:44am as I am awoken, naturally, at that early hour. So, you might ask, "What is the spiritual significance of 444?" I asked. I got the answer.
The spiritual significance of seeing 444 is "Angels are with you. Signs and synchronicities. Comfort and protection. You are on the path of awakening. You are fully supported in your life journey. You are on the right path. Just trust. You are in harmony with the universe. Listen to your intuition."
For me, at this point in my soul path, it was an important sign which gave me great comfort, confidence and reassurance that all that I am doing at this time is in alignment with The All There Is, with Spirit. I can tell you that it was a great feeling getting this message from the universe. Why do I tell you this?
I tell you this because the sentience of the universe is available to everyone to access. The only thing you have to do is work on your awareness and expand it to the point to where you can perceive the universe talking to you. You achieve this by placing more focus on your right brain. Work on lessening your identification with left brain, rational activity and connect with right brain, mystical activity. One such activity is meditation. Go within. Restrict your mental chatter. Stopping the Mind is not dying or going insane. Being totally dependent on the rational, conscious aspect of yourself is insane. Your ego cannot hear the universe because it is concerned with me, me, me. Quiet your ego and open your perception to the nonlinear communiques of the universe. It will guide you honestly.


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I just finished one render. Great that now in zip there's one cubemap instead of six pairs. I loaded it to GearVR and noticed the maps are in wrong order.. dang. No biggie, I can re-stitch these in PS, but I thought to let you know.
dotcommer wrote:Thanks guys for posting this. I'm just now realizing i'll need to do this since I need post effects, and Octane is screwing them up majorly with the linear cubemap layout.
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Once you have gained knowledge, is it possible to go back to that feeling of "not-knowing" the knowledge?
Read this passage and comment on what you think it's describing.
"A newspaper is better than a magazine. A seashore is better than a street. At first, it is better to run than walk. You may have to try several times. It takes some skill, but it's easy to learn. Even young children can enjoy it. Once successful, complications are minimal. Birds seldom get too close. One needs lots of room. Rain soaks in very fast. Too many people doing the same thing can also cause problems. A rock will serve as an anchor. If things break loose from it, however, you will not get a second chance." - Cognitive Psychology
I read this passage and couldn't figure out what it was talking about. When I eventually found the answer, it seemed so obvious, like "how could I have missed that?" But now, I'm not able to go back to that feeling of not knowing, before I knew what the passage was about. Are you able to? Can you recall that feeling?


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You'd think a health news piece in the venerable NYTimes questioning a NYTimes op-ed linking illness and salt would make me happy, but it only makes me angry. What is the media's problem?
Nobody knows anything for certain—that is the only possible story. Nobody really knows anything for certain. Not your doctor, not your nutritionist, not ABC News, not the Times, and, for sure, not me.
Today's op-ed by Nicholas Bakalar questions an earlier op-ed by Dr. Thomas A. Farley, former commissioner of health for New York City (both articles linked above), who wrote that excess salt is killing 40,000 to 90,000 people a year (according to "best estimates"—what exactly does this mean?). Think about this number. It accounts for more deaths than breast cancer. If he is right, shouldn't we all be wearing little anti-salt-shaker pins on our lapel? Shouldn't we start national movements to raise money to prevent salt intake? I do not mean to belittle breast cancer, only Dr. Farley's claims.
Last September the elegant and intelligent Diane Sawyer sent dire warnings from her seat on high at ABC Nightly News announcing a "new" health crisis: "The threat is salt," she intoned ominously. As far as I could discern, and I was listening carefully, she and the reporter (as is common) said only "studies show" or words to that effect, without naming the actual study or source (Dr. Farley perhaps?).
The Centers For Disease Control says consuming more than 2300 mg per day is harmful. How did they come up with that? Who determined that magic number and how? I called their press office. They said they'd get back to me.
As for Mr. Bakalar, his op-ed says that the study Farley relies on is substandard and flawed. Here is what Bakalar also suggests: that the studies show that salt is bad for you; that studies show that salt is good for you; that salt has no relationship to illness whatever; that too little salt is bad for you; that eating more salt than is recommended by the CDC isn't bad for you at all and may even be good for you.
Search the NYTimes for "health and salt" and all you get is disagreement.
In fact, the only thing we know about salt and health, the one known fact is this: if you consume no salt at all, you will die.
Other than that, it's anybody's guess. Should you listen to Dr. Farley? No. Should you listen to Mr. Bakalar? No. Times health reporter Gina Kolata? No.
Me? For God's sake, no! I'm a salt proselytizer, for crying out loud! Two of my books, Charcuterie and Salumi, are worthless if you remove salt. In Ruhlman's Twenty, the second most important cooking technique is how to use salt.
Know what the number one cooking technique is? Think. And that's what I recommend you do for yourself where salt is concerned. The person you should listen to is you and your own body.
When my mom visits and I cook as I normally do, her ankles swell up with water. She doesn't need the salt. When I cut back, she's fine. During the last year of his life, my father began to complain that my food was too salty. His body was telling him that it didn't need so much salt. I dramatically reduced the salt when I cooked for him. Our body is highly attuned to salt because we need it to survive. If you cook and eat your own naturally occurring food—that is, food that isn't heavily processed—you can and should salt your food to taste, meaning salt it so that it's flavorful without tasting salty.
In my opinion.
Do I have to end every rant with "God, this shit drives me crazy"? Apparently.
If you liked this post, take a look at these links:
- My past posts on the America Has a Serious Eating Disorder and The "No Nitrites Added" Hoax.
- Carri Thurman's guest post on harvesting your own salt.
- Also check out Mark's salt store called The Meadow.
© 2014 Michael Ruhlman. Photo © 2014 Donna Turner Ruhlman. All rights reserved.


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"Time may change me, but I can't trace time."
~ David Bowie
Today began like any other I suppose. It is Thursday and I have the day off work. I was able to wake without the sound of an alarm. But it was also different. Today's date is one that changed me in so many ways. But the actual day I'm referring to is one that happened 42 years ago. I was just a kid. On this day, back then, I woke not to an alarm, but to the sound of my mom and grandmother speaking in hushed tones in the kitchen, which was just down the hall. They were also crying, "Oh God, how will I tell the kids," I heard my mother whisper, "They won't understand." But I did understand.
The night prior my father was taken to the hospital with chest pains, and I knew by the whispers and eerie silence that seemed to engulf everything that I would never see him again, at lease not on this physical plane.
I didn't know it then, but I can see now what a pivotal moment this was in my family's lives…myself, a younger sister, two older sisters, and my mom who joined my dad a mere five years later. Things shifted in such a way that this day effects me still. This was also around the time I had my first mystical experiences, though I wouldn't call them that then; I wouldn't be able to name them until later.
For so many years I mourned my parents deaths, carrying it around like sealed bags. Baggage. But I've come to realize that this is no longer the case. I no longer mourn them, but rather honor them, when I remember them on their birthdays and death-days. And I do not use the word death in the traditional sense because if we are eternal—which I believe we are—then leaving these bodies is a transition, not death. A transition into another consciousness.
But it's odd, as I sit here in a coffee shop typing away…I am older than both of them when they transitioned, but when I think of them I am still their little boy. It's difficult for me to put it into words, but somehow this has shaped me, shaped me into the man I've become and in fact the person I am still growing into. Having the lesson of being a child of parents who left this earth at such a young age has guided me in so many ways. And I am only just beginning to see this. And they guide me still. Because while they are now longer here physically, they are in other ways. I know this.
The life we are all currently living, I've come to believe, is really one big lesson. An opportunity for growth or stagnation. I, personally, choose growth. Every second of every day plants something in us that can either grow or wither; some things effect us in such profound ways that we may not be able to see for many years. And at that pivotal point in my life, my very young self faced so many crossroads in front of him. I could have taken so many different routes that would've led to personal destruction. And I almost did for a while. But I didn't. There was something that guided me from within, and in fact still does.
And now, as I sit here on this day so many years later, and think of my parents, I honor them. But mostly, I know that in some indescribable way they are with me still. Right now as I type these very words. And that, my friends, not only comforts me, but makes me smile.
"He guides me along right paths for his name's sake."
~ Psalm 23:3


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Landscaping & Trees
Public input requested for Proposed Tree Ordinance Changes
The City of Greenville hosted a virtual public meeting to provide an update on proposed changes to the City's tree preservation and protection ordinance. At the meeting, City staff shared an overview of the community feedback that was received after the initial public meeting in July and discuss the next steps.
View the presentation | Watch Meeting Playback
Resident feedback will be accepted through Oct. 13, using a short online survey. The draft tree preservation and protection ordinance update will be submitted to the Planning Commission for review later this fall.
View the current Tree Ordinance | View the proposed Tree Ordinance
Take the Tree Ordinance Survey
The Land Management Ordinance
Section 19-6.2 landscaping, buffering, and screening.of the City's Land Management Ordinance was last updated in January, 2011. Additionally, the City has published several master plans and the following Sections which outline landscape requirements:
- 19-6.3 - Tree Protection
- 19-6.5 - Design Standards for Non-Residential Development
- 19-6.8 - Design Standards for Multifamily Residential Development
- 19-6.9 - Single-Family Residential Infill Standards
Whenever applicable, all Site Grading Permits are required to include the tables, details, and specifications provided below. This information should be included and formatted into the standard drawing set of plans that are submitted to the City.
Removing Trees on Private & Public Property
Protection of the existing tree cover is intended to preserve the aesthetic qualities of our community, preserve the natural environment and enhance developed environments, control runoff and protect our soils and water quality, protect wildlife corridors, and conserve energy.The Heritage and Historic Tree designations are in place to help protect some of our larger trees. A Heritage Tree is any tree 20" or greater in diameter and located within the setback. A Historic Tree is any tree 30" or greater in diameter and located within the setback. Removal of Heritage and Historic Trees typically requires mitigation and replacement, unless the tree is on an existing lot containing an existing single-family detached dwelling.
Additionally, trees planted as a part of an approved landscape plan must be maintained per ANSI A300 standards, and failure to do so may result in enforcement action by the City. A Tree Removal and Replacement Form is provided to help commercial and residential developments ensure their tree removals are done in accordance with the City's requirements. More information about the tree protection regulation, please review section 19-6.3.2(C) of the Land Management Ordinance.
For more information, please contact the City's landscape architect Edward Kinney at firstname.lastname@example.com.
Tree Foundation
The City's Tree Foundation program (PDF) offers the general public the opportunity to pay for the planting of new trees in our community. Possible locations may include within a park, public open space, along a greenway, or adjacent to a street. If you are a resident, business owner, or property owner interested in trees being planted along your street, the planting must occur within an existing space on public property.
Through the foundation, residents can donate money to have trees planted within a park, in a public open space, along a greenway, or in the public right-of-way on their street.
Tree Pruning Guidelines
Excessive pruning, topping, crape murder are unacceptable practices and will result in the property being in violation of the City's Code of Ordinances. Such a violation will result in the property being noncompliant and the property owner will be required to plant new trees and shrubs in accordance with the current standards of the City's ordinance. Please review the Tree Pruning Guidelines (PDF) prior to pruning trees or contracting tree pruning services.


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Ysabel, Jaya, Paona, DongBin, Xiaohu, you are welcome.
Chapter 7 Imposition
Leng Qiuhun said, Does Zhang Xiong want to ask her something?
He smiled cruelly as he cast a sidelong glance toward Zhang Xiaolin, and then he continued unhurriedly, Even if now you ask her how many lovers she had in the past, she would tell you by counting by fives and tens [idiom: narrate systematically and in full detail].
Clearing his throat, Zhang Xiaolin walked over and bent over to look at Shen Shangu, and said, Do you still recognize me?
Seemingly without any strength Shen Shangu tried to open her eyes. Suddenly she giggled and said, Of course I do, among my lovers, you are the one who can satisfy me the most. But you are a thug, you are a beast
Leng Qiuhun laughed aloud and said, To have such a woman curse you as a beast, Zhang Xiong, you surely have some ability. In a womans mouth, a beast, these two words [orig. chu sheng] usually have some other meaning.
Smiling ruefully, Zhang Xiaolin stroked his nose and said, Why did you pry into my secret?
Shen Shangu said, Just because you were looking for Leng Qiuhun sneakily, I want to know what kind of secret you two are talking about.
How does this relate to your Tian Xing Bang? Zhang Xiaolin asked.
Of course there is a relation, Shen Shangu replied, This time Tian Xing Bang came to Jinan precisely to look for Zhu Sha Bang, and within Zhu Sha Bang, Leng Qiuhun is the one with most power.
Looking disdainfully out of the corner of his eye, Leng Qiuhun laughed and said, Zhu Sha Men has always had no entanglement with Tian Xing Bang, why would Tian Xing Bang come looking for trouble?
Shen Shangu said, Because Tian Xing Bangs Zhangmen, Seven-Star Soul Snatching Zuo Youzheng suddenly went missing, but before he left, he said that he was going to look for the Assassin Scholar, Ximen Qian.
Zhang Xiaolins eyes were flashing. Do you know why he was looking for Ximen Qian? he asked.
I dont know, Shen Shangu replied.
Did Zuo Youzheng usually have contacts with Ximen Qian? Zhang Xiaolin asked.
They usually dont have any contact with each other, Shen Shangu replied.
Knitting his eyebrows, Zhang Xiaolin said, Do you know that Ximen Qian is missing at the moment?
I dont know, Shen Shangu replied.
Zhang Xiaolin frowned even deeper, as if he was thinking really hard.
Leng Qiuhun suddenly said sternly, The tragedy that happened in our school last night, does Tian Xing Bang have anything to do with it?
What tragedy? Shen Shangu asked, I dont know.
Leng Qiuhun cast a quick glance toward Zhang Xiaolin.
Zhang Xiaolin said, Before Zuo Youzheng went out on his journey, did he receive any letter?
Shen Shangu thought for a moment. Thats right, she replied.
Zhang Xiaolins eyes lit up. Do you know where the letter is now? he asked.
Shen Shangu replied, Zhangmen gave it to Er Shixiong [second martial (older) brother].
Who is your Er Shixiong? Zhang Xiaolin asked.
Tian Qiang Xing [heavenly powerful star] Song Gang, Shen Shangu replied.
Where is he now? Zhang Xiaolin asked.
Shen Shangu replied, He is still in Xuzhou, raising funds to pay Central Plains One Red Dot. Presumably he should be rushing over here tonight.
Emotionally moved, Leng Qiuhun excitedly said, Central Plains One Red Dot? Isnt that the cold-blooded professional assassin ? Why does your Tian Xing Bang want to pay such a huge amount of money to him?
Shen Shangu giggled foolishly and said, Because we want him to deal with your Zhu Sha Men. If you killed our Zhangmen, we want to have each and every one of you killed!
Leng Qiuhuns pale face became even more without any color of blood; appearing to be nervous, his pair of slender hands constantly stroking the hilt of the saber hanging on his waist. How much do you pay him? he asked.
Ten thousand taels, Shen Shangu replied, For each one he kills, we add one thousand taels. Killing you, Leng Qiuhun, five thousand taels.
Leng Qiuhun nervously laughed aloud and said, Very good! Only today do I know that my life is more valuable than the others But five thousand taels cannot be considered much; I can pay him ten thousand twenty thousand.
Shen Shangu said, Yitian Hong usually has a very good trustworthiness; once he accepted our contract, even if you give him ten times the reward, he wont accept.
Leng Qiuhuns laughter stopped abruptly; his palm clenched the hilt of his saber, his eyes flitted to the window, as if he was afraid that mysterious and terrifying One Red Dot would appear anytime and break in.
Giggling foolishly, Shen Shangu turned toward Zhang Xiaolin and said, Whats your actual name? You should be called the real Heavenly Powerful Star. Although that Er Shixiong of mine is called Heavenly Powerful Star, he is not as strong as you are.
Zhang Xiaolin quickly reached out to lightly seal her sleeping acupoint; he muttered, Girls must not speak too much; if you became a busybody, nobody is going to marry you. And girls whom nobody wants to marry, I usually dont want to see. And if there are no girls that nobody wants to marry in the world, wont there be much less of them?
Shen Shangu finally fell into deep sleep.
Leng Qiuhuns eyes were still staring at the window; he muttered, Central Plains One Red Dot How fast is his sword? Does he really have the viciousness that the legend says? Is he really
Zhang Xiaolin laughed and cut him off, Leng Xiong need not think too much; you are going to see him soon anyway.
Leng Qiuhun stood up suddenly and blurted out, He is coming soon?
I think he is, Zhang Xiaolin replied.
The fingers of Leng Qiuhuns hand holding the saber hilt already turned white. Suddenly he slapped the table and loudly said, All right, come then! Even if the Bandit Chief Chu Liuxiang came, I may not necessarily be afraid of him; why would I be afraid of Central Plains One Red Dot?
Zhang Xiaolin smiled and said, Are you saying that Chu Liuxiang is more terrifying than Yitian Hong?
Generally speaking, Leng Qiuhun replied, Is there anybody more terrifying than Chu Liuxiang?
Zhang Xiaolin muttered, As far as I know, Chu Liuxiang is not the least bit terrifying. He is actually a very good-natured person. On this earth, I am afraid very few people are more good-natured than he is.
Leng Qiuhun roared in laughter and said, Thats funny I have never heard anything funnier than that in the world. Perhaps even if Chu Liuxiang heard it, he would laugh his head off.
Zhang Xiaolin sighed; smiling wryly, he said, People are really strange. Sometimes they would rather listen to other peoples hearsay rather than believe the truth.
Crack! Suddenly there was a noise on the roof of the main hall.
Leng Qiuhuns laughter stopped abruptly; immediately there was no sign of smiling expression on his entire body, from top to bottom. Just like a steel ball being shot out of a tight bow string he whizzed toward the window and called out loudly, Friends, since you have come to the Hall of Delight, why dont you come down?
Zhang Xiaolin pulled the door open and walked out unhurriedly. He said with a laugh, If gentlemen want to fight, please feel free to find him. If you are coming to gamble, Zaixia might want to accompany you.
Under the starlight, they saw flashing shadows on the roof ridge; they came together as if they were deliberating for a moment, and then five of them leaped down one after another. But there was someone else standing with his hands behind his back on the opposite roof, his expression looked completely relaxed, yet like a wolf, his pair of pupils flickered in the dark. Zhang Xiaolin looked carefully, and found out that this person was precisely Yitian Hong.
The first one to jump down wore tight warrior outfit, his face was full of stiff beard, but his stature was so thin that it looked so incongruous with his full beard. Among the five, obviously his qinggong was the best, by far. As soon as he landed on the ground, his burning eyes were sizing up Zhang Xiaolin. Slightly cupping his fist, he spoke coldly, I wonder if Gexia [Sire] the master of this place?
Surprisingly, the middle finger and the ring finger of his left hand, which was at the front, were sheathed with three peculiar looking jet-black steel rings.
Zhang Xiaolin laughed and said, I wonder if Gexia is Heavenly Powerful Star, Song Er Piaobazi [second boss]?
The stiff-bearded man replied, Exactly.
Zhang Xiaolin stepped away from the door and said with a laugh, The master of this place is waiting inside. Please.
Leng Qiuhun already sat down in the spacious chair, his flickering long saber was pressed down on Shen Shangus neck, as he looked at Song Gang coldly. Song Er Xiansheng [second mister] came at a very opportune time; Zaixia has just captured a female thief in here, if Song Er Xiansheng is interested, there is no harm in you and Zaixia interrogate her together.
Song Gang was standing at the door; his gloomy face has already turned purple, he did not know whether to rush in, or should he refrain from rushing in.
Leng Qiuhun laughed aloud and said, Song Er Xianshengs clothes must be too tight, somehow your face is turning red. Perhaps next time you should find another tailor; Zaixia might be able to recommend one for Song Er Xiansheng.
The countenance of all Tian Xing Bang disciples already changed, showing their displeasure; screaming and yelling, they were going to rush in. But Song Gang suddenly raised his palm backward, sending the first person to rush in to fall back outside the door, while he himself unexpectedly cupped his fist and said with a forced laugh, This this must be a misunderstanding.
Raising his eyebrows, Leng Qiuhun said, Misunderstanding?
Song Gang said, The person currently under Leng Gongzis blade is Ol Songs Shimei [martial (younger) sister].
Leng Qiuhun said, Ah Zaixia is indeed lacking in manners. If your honorable Shimei would speak out her background earlier, how could Zaixia dare to be this rude?
His speech was polite, but it did not look like he had the slightest intention to pull the saber pressing on Shen Shangus neck.
Song Gang was already unable to hide his concern and anxiety; forcing a laughter, he said, If Xiongtai [brother (polite appellation for a friend one's age)] is willing to return our humble Shimei to us, our humble Gang cant thank you enough.
Leng Qiuhun laughed aloud and said, If there is any unusual relationship between a man and a woman, indeed it is hard to conceal.
Finally Song Gang was unable to stop his countenance from changing. What did you say? he said.
Leng Qiuhun spoke unhurriedly, Zaixia said, for the sake of your affection to your Shimei, unexpectedly Gexia forgot your Shixiong.
Song Gangs face turned even deeper red, almost purple. Stammering, he said, My humble Shimei my humble Shixiong
Leng Qiuhun suddenly rose up to his full height and spoke in stern voice, Those in the light dont speak dark words; I might as well tell you honestly, whether Zuo Youzheng is alive or dead, which course he took, our Zhu Sha Men has nothing to do with it. As for your Shimei you are thinking of snatching her away, I am afraid it wont be that easy.
Clenching his fist, Song Gang spoke hoarsely, You what do you want?
Leng Qiuhun said, If you want to take this woman out alive, you have to make an oath guaranteeing Tian Xing Bang will never enter into Jinan even for one step. As for the friend on the roof, naturally you must ask him to go back together with you.
Before he finished talking, suddenly there was a gust of wind, a shadow flew in from the left window, and flew out from the right window. The saber in Leng Qiuhuns palm was flicked by that shadow, Ding!, it nearly flew off of his hand.
And then he saw the Central Plains One Red Dot has already perched back on the right roof.
Without even speaking, he has already given the clearest, the simplest answer that Leng Qiuhun could understand, I want to come I will come, I want to go I will go, nobody has the ability to stop me.
Leng Qiuhuns countenance changed; but he immediately laughed and said, As long as Xiongtai no longer care about Tian Xing Bangs business, any time you want to come into the City of Jinan, our Zhu Sha Men disciples will definitely welcome you, and will send you off respectfully.
This moment Song Gang was no longer able to restrain his anger. Yitian Hong, he shouted, You killed our Schools disciple, not only I did not complain, I scolded them instead. Even toward my old man [i.e. father], I, the one surnamed Song, am not as polite as I am with you, but just now you were clearly able to rescue San Mei [third (younger) sister], yet you were unwilling to act. You you you
Yitian Hong coldly said, I always know only how to kill, not to rescue.
His gaze was colder than the blade. Song Gang only looked at him once, it was as if his words were stuffed back inside and blocked his throat, so that he could no longer speak it out.
After half a day, he was finally able to stammer, Since thats the case, why didnt you kill him?
Yitian Hong said, Killing people, I never attack sneakily. You call him out, I will kill him for you.
Leng Qiuhun laughed aloud and said, Only before Zaixia goes out, your honorable Shimeis head will separate from her body first.
Song Gang hatefully stomped his feet and hissed, All right, you win. From now on, Tian Xing Bang will not enter Jinan even for one step.
A man like Song Gang, although his status in Jianghu was not too high, but for gangs and societies, if they still want to mingle in Jianghu, their words will be like the wind; once it was out, they could never change.
Leng Qiuhuns countenance brightened; he laughed and said, So be it
Suddenly someone chuckled and said, Leng Xiong must not forget that Zaixia also has a part on this Miss.
Song Gang turned around quickly, and saw the chuckling Zhang Xiaolin was walking over. His eyes seemed to spout fire as he shouted angrily, What kind of thing are you? Why are you so meddlesome?
Still chuckling, Zhang Xiaolin said, I am not a thing, I am a human.
With a wild roar Song Gang sent out a punch, the star rings on his fingers glittered like frost and snow; to take someones life was as easy as a hands turn. But as soon as he sent out the punch, the shadow in front of him disappeared.
And then he saw Zhang Xiaolin was standing on the roof, still chuckling and said, Zaixia has already said: if you want to fight, I am not going to accompany you.
Song Gang was startled and angry at the same time; he beckoned Yitian Hong several times, but Yitian Hong acted as if he did not see him. Finally Song Gang could not bear anymore, he said, Hong Xiong, you Could it be that the time for you to kill has not arrived yet?
Yitian Hong cast a glance toward Zhang Xiaolin, he spoke slowly, All people in the world, I can kill. But he Please find someone better qualified than me! From the roof he tossed down a bundle of silver. Unexpectedly he left without even looking back.
Song Gang was agape and tongue-tied, he simply stared blankly on the spot. Not even in his dream he ever imagined that there were people that the Central Plains One Red Dot, who killed people like cutting grass, could not kill.
Zhang Xiaolin stood with his hands behind his back. His clothes fluttered in the wind, he laughed and spoke slowly, Actually, my condition is a lot simpler than Leng Gongzis.
Finally Song Gang stomped his feet and said, What do you want? Speak up!
Zhang Xiaolin said, As long as you let me look at the letter that your honorable Shixiong handed to you before he left, not only will I immediately send your Shimei out of the door with respect, I will also hire a nice sedan chair for her, and light a string of firecrackers to wash the bad luck.
Song Gang could not help but was stunned, Your condition is just to see the letter? he asked.
After I look, I will immediately give it back, Zhang Xiaolin said.
Song Gang was silent for half a day. Finally he spoke slowly, Although I have destroyed that letter, but I have read it, and I know the content. I just dont know what relationship does that letter have with you, and why do you insist on seeing it?
Zhang Xiaolin happily said, You dont need to ask me the reason, you only need to think whether you want that sweet and pretty Shimei back in your bosom or not.
Song Gang pondered for half a day, he also looked at the pale yet beautiful face under the lantern light. A burst of hot blood welled-up in his heart, he threw all cautions away and loudly said, All right, Ill tell you. Actually, nothings secret in that letter, its just Suddenly he roared wildly, rushed several steps forward, and fell face down on the ground.
With cry of alarm, Tian Xing Bang disciples were thrown into chaos. They saw that there seemed to be no wound on his body, but after a moment there was a trace of blood oozing out of the seventh joint of his backbone.
His countenance changed, Leng Qiuhun said, This is the second person died because of that letter. Zhang Xiong, do you But when he looked up, Zhang Xiaolin, who was standing on the roof, has disappeared to God knows where.
As Song Gang roared wildly and fell to the ground, from behind the corner of the wall a shadow flashed and disappeared. Although no one else saw this, how could it escape Zhang Xiaolins pair of sharp eyes?
He instantly flew several zhang over and ran after it. Who would have thought that the shadow was already more than a dozen zhang away? Although everybody in the world knew that his qinggong was superior, who would have thought that this mans qinggong was not weak either?
Two streaks of shadows, one in front the other behind, were flying high in the sky in the dry evening breeze of Jinan city, just like two kites connected together with one string.
Unexpectedly that shadow has always been able to keep some distance from Zhang Xiaolin.
In just a short moment, the two shadows had flown out of the city. In the distance water vapor rose up from the ground; they had reached the edge of Daming Lake. Under the moonlight, this famous lake seemed to have a different kind of captivating charm.
By this time Zhang Xiaolin was able to catch up with the shadow. In all the world, no matter who, his qinggong would be a tad lower than his.
Zhang Xiaolin laughed and said, Friend, you had better halt your step; I guarantee I wont harm a single hair of yours. But if you are thinking of jumping into the water, unavoidably you are asking for trouble.
The mans laughter sounded like screeching owl, he said, Chu Liuxiang! I finally recognize who you are.
Amidst the sound of his voice, suddenly a burst of strange purple smoke exploded, engulfing his figure, as well as swallowing Zhang Xiaolin in it.
The smoke immediately became so thick that it appeared to look like a solid object; not only Zhang Xiaolin had his eyes blinded, unexpectedly his body in the middle of the smoke could not move, as if he was paralyzed.
By the time he stopped his breath and rushed out of the smoke and reached the edge of the lake, unexpectedly that man has already disappeared, leaving only a ripple on the water, which was rising in spirals and dissipated.
As if he was in a trance Zhang Xiaolin stared at the slowly dissipating ripple, while his mouth mumbled, Is that not the legendary Dongying [East China Sea/Japan] warriors mysterious ren shu [method/technique of restraining oneself]? How come Ive never heard that someone in Central Plains Wulin managed to master this near-sorcery skill?
According to the old legend, ren shu was some kind of technique to make ones body disappear suddenly in front of the enemy. To learn this kind of mysterious martial art, one must sever fleshly desire, and completely dedicate himself to the ren shu religious rite. The process was extremely arduous, so that no ordinary human could endure. Therefore, even within the Dongying Wulin, the ren zhe [ninja] who knew ren shu was oftentimes considered as demonic, mysterious character.
Although Zhang Xiaolins qinggong had already reached transforming boundary, although he had a way to escape the eyes and ears of the people all over the world, but his knowledge about this mysterious ren shu was actually not much.
After staring blankly for half a day, he could not help but smiling ruefully and said, Since this person is an expert in ren shu, plus he has that kind of qinggong, today I, Chu Liuxiang, finally met my match. Too bad until this moment I still cannot guess who he is?
Suddenly he heard someone speaking coldly, Chu Liuxiang, pull the sword hanging on your waist.
The voice was hoarse and peculiar; a dark shadow appeared from the foggy edge of the lake. Surprisingly it was that Central Plains One Red Dot.
Emotionally moved, Zhang Xiaolin asked, Why are you here?
Yitian Hong said, I tracked you all the way here, and only now did I finally find you. You must not disappoint me.
Stroking his nose, Zhang Xiaolin said, You followed me all the way here? Why?
Yitian Hong coldly replied, Just so Ill have my sword embedded in your throat.
Zhang Xiaolin was stunned, You want to kill me? he asked.
Or be killed by you, Yitian Hong replied.
Zhang Xiaolin laughed and said, You know that I never wish to kill people, not to mention you.
You dont want to kill me, then Ill kill you, Yitian Hong said.
Zhang Xiaolin said, Didnt you just said that you dont
Yitian Hong cut him off, I just did not want to kill you for other people; I want to kill you for my own sake.
Smiling wryly, Zhang Xiaolin asked, Why?
Yitian Hong replied, To be able to fight a life and death battle against Chu Liuxiang is the greatest joy of my life.
Zhang Xiaolin shook his head, put his hands behind his back, and said with laugh, Too bad I really dont have any interest in fighting with you. I am really sorry.
Yitian Hong shouted, Even if you dont want to fight, you simply must fight.


text:
|Perl: the Markov chain saw
Re: Assigning unique identifiers within a discussion thread to each distinct anonymous commenterby yitzchak (Sexton)
|on Jan 06, 2014 at 01:11 UTC ( #1069439=note: print w/replies, xml )
|Need Help??
None of the suggestions for taking away site functionality make sense to me, but there is one piece we are missing. When commenting/posting, a logged in user should be presented with a checkbox to post anonymously.
In Section Perl Monks Discussion


text:
© ChildForum
A package of measures to enhance parental leave provisions takes effect today (1st April 2015). The changes will benefit many more families financially but favour parents as workers and not as the carers, nurturers and teachers of their babies.
It is well-documented in research that the provision of adequate parental leave helps to retain skilled people in the workforce, reducing the cost of recruiting and training new staff, and supporting business growth.
ChildForum's Dr Alexander says that to achieve its desired goal of getting children a better start in life, the Government should also be looking at how to address gaps between parental leave provisions and education policy that targets early and longer participation by children in non-parental childcare.
Paid parental leave has been extended from 14 to 16 weeks (and to 18 weeks on 1st April 2016), giving parents the option to stay at home for a little longer before returning to work.
More parents are likely to qualify for paid parental – in particular those who have recently changed jobs, seasonal and casual workers, workers with more than one employer, and Home for Life parents with permanent care arrangements including grandparents caring for grandchildren.
Parental leave is more flexible with people now allowed to work an occasional day or attend a course during their leave period.
The parental tax credit has risen from $150 to $220 a week and now extends to 10 weeks.
However, the improvements to parental leave provisions are not likely to flow through to improved well-being for infants and make a significant difference to the growing proportion of infants in childcare, Dr Alexander says.
In 2013 43% of all 1 year-olds and 15% of children younger than 12 months were enrolled in licensed early childhood education or childcare.
"Early childhood services can require parents to start their infant when a place becomes vacant, not when the parent's paid leave ends. The two-week increase in paid leave may not affect childcare decisions for families with infants, because these decisions are often driven by what care is available and accessible to families," Dr Alexander says.
Dr Alexander confirms that for some infants, childcare may be the best option and many parents and babies can benefit from a little time apart where the baby is well cared for in an early childhood facility. However, she says that there is a growing amount of worrying anecdotal evidence from early childhood staff that they are seeing a loss of confidence in parenting and in parents' understanding their crucial role in teaching their child as they rely more and more on the early childhood service for help in child-rearing.
"Children need parents to have time to parent. Spending quality time with your infant does not make up for having little time when it comes to getting to know each other, learning how to care, and bonding."
A second discrepancy between parental leave provisions and employment with childcare policy is in the area of support for breastfeeding.
Dr Alexander says that babies in group childcare suffer from a much higher rate of illness and so breastfeeding until at least 6 months of age is all the more important to protect the health of infants attending childcare. But the period of paid parental leave is 16 weeks and parents may choose or may have to use up some of that leave before the birth date.
Currently, workers are permitted breastfeeding breaks in the workplace if they are breastfeeding. However, most licensed early childhood services do not operate from workplaces to allow infants to be cared for onsite. It is not a legal requirement for early childhood services to have a breastfeeding policy and provide facilities for breastfeeding support.
Data on breastfeeding rates from Plunket shows that 14% of infants aged 6 weeks were on artificial milk formula and did not receive breastmilk. This jumped to 25% by the age of 3 months, and 35% at 6 months. The World Health Organisation recommends breastfeeding/breast milk for the first 6 months and longer if possible.
While Dr Alexander praises the new parental leave measures, she also suggests that discussions and policy development work continue around how best to support parents with new babies.
Further options for consideration could include:
- The Government making childcare funding payments to ECE services available to parents when the infant is cared for within the family, giving parents a real choice to stay at home or to use childcare for the first year.
- Re-writing education regulations to make it clear that 'baby barns' – the colloquial term for childcare services with licences to have up to 75 babies or 150 children including babies - are not acceptable unless the babies are cared for in groups of no more than 8 with two teachers (this group size is optimal for infant health and developmental outcomes).
- Creating greater flexibility with paid parental leave by allowing parents to spread their paid leave out over 12 months instead of it being continuous.
- Supporting paid parental leave to be shared simultaneously between two parents/caregivers - currently there is provision for transfer of leave from the primary caregiver to the partner. Half/half paid leave arrangements or similar between parents could be made a clear option.
- Changing the primary entitlement for paid parental leave from resting only with the mother, to both the mother and father. Current paid parental leave provisions make it difficult for men in particular – who may not know until after the baby arrives how much their baby benefits from them being involved in care and then want to be involved more.
Read also:
ECE attendance compulsory for the children of parents on benefits or family income suffers
Government funding amounts for child places in early childhood services


text:
What do you do when your last two albums have drawn receptions that have been, at the very best, decidedly muted? When you're sliding down festival bills and the venues you headline are getting smaller? Well, if you're Welsh metallers Bullet For My Valentine, you go right back to basics. The Bridgend quartet's fifth studio album cribs from 2005 debut 'The Poison' to the extent that it's even titled 'Venom' (see what they did there?). It's full of all the things that made them a success in the first place, namely, duelling guitars, pounding breakdowns and choruses built for fields full of delirious metalheads to scream along to.
At times all the nostalgia is a tonne of fun: meaty, aggressive tracks like 'No Way Out' and 'Broken' pack serious punch, with their widdly riffs, fist-pumping breakdowns and furious pace. And if the bruising 'You Want A Battle? (Here's A War)' isn't the entrance music for a WWE superstar soon then something is seriously wrong.
But the problem is, while the music is as violently powerful as ever, the rage, anger and lyrical bite are starting to sound seriously forced ("You're only alive when you torture the weak/ Now hear me roar", screams Matt Tuck on 'You Want A Battle? (Here's A War)') . This is far from the visceral, raw attack of Bullet's early years where they unleashed cuts like 'Tears Don't Fall' or 'Four Words To Choke Upon' (both from 'The Poison'). Rather, it's a pastiche, the sound of a band struggling to fit into the same jeans they did a decade ago and relying on the same old clichés. Musically they're rolling back the years, but the screams of betrayal and agony ring decidedly hollow these days.
- Director: Colin Richardson
- Record label: RCA
- Release date: 14 Aug, 2015


text: Maamun Hajmahmoud – Office Manager Maamun is responsible for the management of the Kick It Out office, including overseeing building and grounds maintenance, security, space management and more. Maamun also manages the organisation's resources as well as supporting the Finance and Administration Manager in the smooth running of the day-to-day operation of Kick It Out. Maamun distributes the resources to football clubs, helping to coordinate the logistics for dedicated games and other events.


text:
Turkey has decided to postpone filling a massive upstream dam amid rising concerns in neighbouring Iraq that declining water levels in the Tigris River may pose an immediate threat to the country's water flow.
At least 70 percent of Iraq's water comes from rivers and marshes shared with its neighbours, especially the Tigris and the Euphrates rivers - both of which run through Turkey.
Ankara started filling the Ilisu Dam - one of 22 dams and 19 power plants being built as part of the Southeastern Anatolian Project - on June 1, but on Thursday it announced that it was halting operations.
"As of this moment, the water of the Tigris River will flow into Iraq without a single drop touching the gates of the Ilisu Dam which we've now opened," said Fatih Yildiz, Turkey's ambassador to Iraq.
Speaking at a press conference, Yildiz said: "stability played an important role in our decision to postpone filling the dam."
He added: "Turkey will continue to show the cooperation and sacrifice needed to help our Iraqi brothers overcome the water crisis."
Experts say the amount of water flowing through Iraq's rivers has fallen by at least 40 percent in recent decades. On June 3, the Iraqi parliament called an emergency session to discuss the country's low water levels.
"I can cut across the Tigris River on foot. It breaks my heart to see it like this," Fatih al-Salaam, a 25-year-old student in the capital, Baghdad, told Al Jazeera.
"These rivers [the Tigris and Euphrates] shape our identity. It is after them that Iraq was called the land between the two rivers," added al-Salaam.
A prolonged reduction of water levels in the rivers flowing through Iraq will reduce electricity generation from hydroelectric dams and affect the water supply for agriculture, forcing the country to import more food.
The shortages could also affect Iraq's southern marshes, which were declared a UNESCO world heritage site in 2016.
Anger at Iraqi government
While some have pointed fingers at Turkey for the water shortages in Iraq, including social media activists calling for a boycott of Turkish products, many citizens and politicians have held Baghdad responsible.
"Why are we putting the blame on Turkey? Why didn't Iraq build a dam of its own?" Malik Rashid, a 30-year-old resident of Nasiriya in southern Iraq, told Al Jazeera.
"We blame our own government for not properly managing and using our water resources."
Omar Hashim, 38, from Baghdad, agreed: "More responsibility falls on shoulders of the Iraqi government. We can only blame it [Baghdad], not Turkey, for not knowing how to plan our water security."
Capitalising on popular sentiment, Muqtada al-Sadr, the Shia leader of the Sairoon bloc that emerged victorious in last month's parliamentary elections, gave the government a deadline to begin solving the water crisis.
"If our [electoral] victory is the beginning of revenge for the citizens of Iraq, then I will not allow that to happen," al-Sadr said in a statement on Sunday, adding that his party will "work to restore the rights" of the public.
Meanwhile, Iraq's Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi has gone to great lengths to show his outgoing government did everything it could to tackle the issue.
"There are plans to secure our water resources on both the domestic and foreign fronts. Yes, there is a water shortage this year, but it is not a crisis," he said at a news conference on Tuesday.
Farming impact?
Local media has reported that al-Abadi's government was taken by surprise at the depleting water levels, but officials told Al Jazeera that Baghdad and Ankara have been in continuous contact over the issue.
"We haven't taken a single step without consulting the Iraqis," Yildiz, the Turkish ambassador, told Al Jazeera, adding that Ankara had already postponed a planned March start for the project.
"[The] low water levels are not the result of the dam," said Yildiz, adding that the two countries will monitor and evaluate the effects of the dam on Iraq's water supply.
Zafer Abdullah, an adviser at the Iraqi ministry of water resources, said climate change and irregular rainfall was to blame for the reduced water flow.
"The storage of water in Ilisu [last week] surely hasn't had the chance to impact water levels so quickly," he said.
"It would in the long run, but we are seeing these effects because of climatic conditions and the lack of rainfall."
Despite agreeing to the construction of the dam, Baghdad fears that the volume of water being withheld will impact farming.
"Drinking water will not be affected by the dam, but when it comes to agricultural needs, we are worried," Ahmed Mahjoub, spokesman for the Iraqi foreign ministry, told Al Jazeera.
"Turkey promised its dam will not harm Iraq [and its] agricultural needs in central and southern provinces, but we think the volume of water released should increase. We are trying to negotiate a better deal," added Mahjoub.
Rivers from Iran
Although public attention has focused on Turkey's Ilisu dam, residents in Sulaimaniyah in Iraq's Kurdish region have reportedly been struggling to access water for several days after Iran cut off the flow of water in one of the major tributaries of the Tigris River.
The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) said in a statement this week that Iran "cut the water flow of a cross-border river of Little Zab", resulting in a shortage of drinking water for the residents of Qaladze.
"The situation is very bad," Akram Ahmed, general manager of dams in the KRG's Ministry of Agriculture and Water Resources told Al Jazeera. "Thousands of people can't access water for more than half an hour a day. It is an environmental and humanitarian disaster."
A committee from the Sulaimaniyah provincial council and Iran's consulate in Sulaimaniyah visited the area near Little Zab River on Tuesday to discuss the matter. The meeting was not very successful, said Ahmed.
Mohamed Ansari Fard, an adviser at the Iranian Ministry of Agriculture, denied that Tehran had cut water flow.
"The shortages [in Sulaimaniya] are a result of drought and climate change. Water shortages are a regional issue we are addressing in Iran too," said Fard, adding that Iranian farmers had also been protesting against water shortages recently.
Mahjoub, of the Iraqi foreign ministry, said Iran had cut off or diverted 42 rivers and tributaries shared with Iraq, but added that "dealing with the Ilisu Dam is more urgent".
"Iranian and Turkish water storage projects are harming water levels in Iraq, but it [shallow waters in the Tigris] has had a huge physical and psychological impact on Iraqis," said Mahjoub.