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Scientific facts about the reproductive system.
Healthy Relationships and staying safe.
Becoming a socially responsible citizen.
Linking education to future careers and making good choices.
Themed competitions to extend knowledge.
Although there is no formal assessment or examination at Key Stage 3 for PDP, teachers will keep record and record the progress of all students in their groups in order to ensure that they understand all of the key concepts. | {
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2016 G550 – Reviewing the New Classic from Mercedes Benz
February 20, 2017 Catherine L. Hooks
Over the years, the Mercedes-Benz G-class series, also known as the Geländewagen, has built a reputation for being one of the more noticeable and unique lines of SUVs, having established an unmistakable identity with the brand over the past 37 years. While the engineers at Mercedes have done an excellent job of staying true to the original body's design theme, they've also done a remarkable job of innovating and updating the vehicle with each new model. The 2016 G550 is no exception, with a 4.0-liter V-8 engine that provides 450 lb-ft of torque and 416 horsepower. That's a considerable improvement over last year's engine parts which were less efficient and less powerful, with a 5.5-liter V-8 producing only 382 HP/391 lb-ft.
Embracing the Signature Look, Equipped with Better Parts
With each new G-class model you can expect to see that boxy and bold look that the model has become known for. Mercedes' G550 body stays in its lane while getting notable enhancements over its predecessors. First, you'll notice the engine effortlessly revs up to the redline at 6300-RPM while emitting a quieter sound from the vehicle's dual side-exiting exhaust system, which still begs to be noticed but isn't nearly as disruptive as the previous year's version. Even with more than 5,800 pounds of solid Mercedes Benz parts and frame on board, this G550 manages to outdo the 2015 edition in acceleration, reaching 60 mph in just 5.7 seconds.
Entry Level Luxury Nothing to Scoff at
Surprisingly, Mercedes' G550 is the least of its siblings yet still carries a price tag of $120,000+. The seven-speed automatic transmission is powerful, but it pales in comparison to the Mercedes AMG G65, which starts at only $20,000 higher and packs a much stronger punch. That explains why the latter model accounts for more than half of the Mercedes Benz G-class sales in the U.S. However, if the extra Mercedes performance parts equipped aren't really a top priority for you, the exterior and interior parts and aesthetics of the G550 are comparable to the AMG G65, as both have the same fancy center stack and instrument cluster. Plus, the 4×4 G550 can hold its own in rough terrain just fine with a superb suspension system and drivetrain setup.
Not a Powerhouse But Reliable Nonetheless
While the G550 isn't in the same league as its robust G65 counterpart in terms of performance and power, it is about $100,000 less than the V-12 version of that model ($20k less was compared to V-8 G65). And remember to keep in mind, (for either AMG G65 version) you'd always be spending a premium on the Mercedes performance parts catalog. Not that anything of the brand is particularly 'cheap', but it's worth checking Mercedes Benz parts online to gauge the general price differences between the models. The auto parts for either Mercedes G-Class versions will all carry the same quality and reliability.
Even with the cheaper price tag, the G550 is slightly more efficient with a 14 MPG fuel economy versus just 13 MPG for the G65. With all these things in mind, the G550 seems to be the wiser choice for a casual driver who won't be going much beyond the confines of regulated roads and highways.
Luxurious Yet Rugged
Furthermore, the 4-wheel-drive version is strong enough to bring you through the muck without leaving you stuck, so the G550 4×4 is still suitable for areas with rough weather or even the occasional off-roading adventure.
The Mercedes Benz G550 is a great vehicle, and we're looking forward to seeing what else Mercedes Benz releases for its G-Class in the future.
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Digital Digest: Castle - The Complete Third Season DVD Review; Body of Proof - The Complete First Season DVD Review
It may seem hard to believe, but this is the last weekend of summer, which means one big thing for us: welcome to the last Digital Digest of the summer! Fall is always full of changes for everything in the world around us, but in the world of sitcoms, it means that we start getting new seasons of our favorite broadcast network sitcoms, and even more of last season's sitcoms on digital media. And of course, there are always old classics to revisit! This week, we'll be reviewing some more ABC dramas, with Body of Proof - The Complete First Season and Castle - The Complete Third Season. Here we go!
Last Saturday, TVShowsOnDVD.com brought some special news about some December releases from Shout! Factory. First, on December 6, we'll get to see more of Designing Women, with Designing Women - The Complete Fifth Season. Then, the very next week, on December 13, we'll get to see the end of the sitcom Spin City, with Spin City - The Complete Sixth Season! As always, it is great to see a series coming to completion on DVD.
The Lucy Show has been released on DVD at a rather steady pace, and more is coming in December! On December 6, we have The Lucy Show - The Official Fifth Season coming to DVD. But the news gets a little better... according to TVShowsOnDVD.com, the set will include the special "Lucy in London"! It had been originally unofficially reported that this hour-long special would likely not be included due to some rights issues, but it is great to see that it has been resolved.
Fans of The Office have been very satisfied ("that's what she said"... sorry!) with the DVD releases of the series in the United States, and we've even been able to see the UK version of the series on DVD in the US. The Office (UK) - Special 10th Anniversary Edition comes to DVD November 22 and collects all twelve (hey, it is a British series!) and plenty of special features on a four disc set. While all of the episodes have already been released on DVD, this new package is an even nicer version that what we saw before.
UPCOMING WEEK PREVIEW
Tuesday (September 20) is a very busy day for releases, particularly for the 2010-2011 season of current series. For sitcoms, we have Happy Endings - The Complete First Season, Mike & Molly - The Complete First Season (DVD/Blu-ray), Modern Family - The Complete Second Season (DVD/Blu-ray), and Raising Hope - The Complete First Season. Also on Tuesday, we get to see the HBO series How to Make it in America - The Complete First Season (DVD/Blu-ray). And classic TV isn't being left out of the party: we've also got The Dick Van Dyke Show - 50th Anniversary Edition: Fan Favorites (read our review) and the classic series Hawaii Five-O - The Eleventh Season (read our review). And for fans of comedy above the border, we've got The Red Green Show - The Geezer Years (review coming next week in Digital Digest). But wait! We're still not done! We've also got Body of Proof - The Complete First Season and Castle - The Complete Third Season. We have reviews of both of these this week in Digital Digest. Clearly, no matter what your taste is in television, there is something for you out there this Tuesday!
BLOG FEATURE REVIEW
When a mystery novelist kills off the main character in his book series and a copycat murder occurs, the novelist is sure to be questioned. That is how the ABC series Castle starts off, but when it is realized that Richard Castle (Nathan Fillion) can also be a valuable asset during the interrogation process, the questioning turns into a relationship that proves to be very useful. Here is our review of Castle - The Complete Third Season.
DVD Review: Castle - The Complete Third Season
by Pavan
Castle - The Complete Third Season (ABC Studios, $45.99) brings the thrilling third season of the witty crime series starring Nathan Fillion on DVD with all 24 episodes! Famous mystery novelist Richard Castle and NYPD Detective Kate Beckett return for the suspenseful third season of ABC's brilliantly funny series, Castle. Enjoy every inspired idea and flirtatious moment as this fiery duo solve the strangest homicides New York has to offer. It's the most entertaining season yet as Castle's wildly funny storytelling skills work their way into every case. Between his mixed-up partnership with Beckett and his relationships with his diva mother and his clever daughter, Alexis, Castle is always on his toes. Crime fighting has never been this much fun! Get on the beat and relive every wild and witty moment in this 5-disc DVD set.
The series will return to its Mondays at 10PM timeslot on ABC this coming season following Dancing with the Stars once again. The series stars Nathan Fillion as Richard Castle, Stana Katic as Detective Kate Beckett, Jon Huertas as Detective Javier Esposito, Seamus Dever as Detective Kevin Ryan, Tamala Jones as Medical Examiner Dr. Lanie Parish, Ruben Santiago-Hudson as Captain Roy Montgomery, Molly Quinn as Alexis Castle, and Susan Sullivan as Martha Rodgers. Among the recurring stars are Michael Connelly and James Patterson as themselves, Arye Gross as Medical Examiner Dr. Sidney Perlmutter, Ken Baumann as Ashley, and Victor Webster as Dr. Josh Davidson. Among the guests this year are Bre Blair, Lee Tergesen, Michael Mosley, Mary Page Keller, John Pyper-Ferguson, Ever Carradine, Lyle Lovett, Lance Henriksen, Sam Page, Juliana Dever, Laura Prepon, Brett Cullen, Gilles Marini, Max Martini, Adrian Pasdar, Corbin Bernsen, Rebecca Budig, Cameron Mathison, Tina Majorino, Jane Seymour, Bruce Davison, Jay Paulson, Peter Onorati, D.B. Sweeney, Jason George, Michael McKean, Teri Polo, and Jason Beghe as Royce.
This third season is just as thrilling as the second season. I don't like most crime shows of today, but this one is a throwback to the ones of the past and focuses on characters than more about the case. I like that! And the back and forth banter between Castle and Beckett is sexy and is heating! Will they or won't they? As far as memorable episodes, we have the season premiere "A Deadly Affair," where Beckett hasn't heard from Castle since he left for the Hamptons months ago to finish writing his second Nikki Heat novel, "Naked Heat," but Beckett and her team burst into an apartment on a murderer's trail, only to be surprised when they find Castle standing over a dead woman's body holding a gun. In "Under the Gun," while investigating the murder of a bail bondsman, Beckett and Castle run into Beckett's first Training Officer, Mike Royce, now working as a bounty hunter and chasing their murder suspect on a warrant for missing his court appearance. In "Anatomy of a Murder," when a County Hospital doctor's body is discovered in someone else's casket, Castle and Beckett dive into the complex relationships in the hospital and the doctor's life to uncover the killer. On the edge of your seat episode, "3XK," when a woman's dead body shows signs of an old killer's handy work, Castle and Beckett discover that the Triple Killer, a murderer who vanished four years prior, may have returned.
In "Nikki Heat," Natalie Rhodes (Laura Prepon), playing Nikki Heat in the film adaptation of Heat Wave, joins Castle and Beckett in their next investigation of a high class match-maker, Stacy Collins, but Natalie goes to extremes during her "character research," making herself into the exact image of Beckett, much to Castle's delight and Beckett's dismay, while Ryan tries to find the best way to propose to Jenny. On the thrilling episode "Knockdown," when the detective who investigated Beckett's mother's murder is shot before Beckett's eyes before he can give her new evidence in the case, Beckett's old wounds are reopened and the investigation of the detective's death leads the team to an old scheme which may provide the answer to why Beckett's mother was murdered and who ordered it. In the first part of a two-part episode, "Set Up," Castle and Beckett Investigate the murder of a New York taxi driver who was shot to death, and his taxi stripped of its parts, but as they search for his killer, they are led to a storage with trace amounts of radioactive material and evidence that there may be a terrorist group building a dirty bomb so Beckett and the squad must cooperate with a ruthless Homeland Security agent Mark Fallon (Adrian Pasdar), but Castle senses that they have been set up. On the conclusion, "Countdown," Castle and Beckett remain trapped in the frozen storage container while the NYPD and the Department of Homeland Security continue to search for the dirty bomb, but can they find the bomb, and defuse it in time? In the episode "To Love and Die in L.A.," against orders, Beckett travels to Los Angeles while investigating the murder of her training officer Michael Royce, and Castle questions Beckett's motives. On one of the best season finales in memory, "Knockout," an assassin, with knowledge of the details behind Beckett's mother's murder, escapes from custody during his trial leaving Castle and Beckett to track him down and a secret is revealed about Captain Montgomery's past and the identity of the third cop leading into a stunning conclusion to the season.
The episodes run usually 42-43 minutes...unedited of course with all the great music intact. See the runtimes below:
1. "A Deadly Affair" 42:39
2. "He's Dead, She's Dead" 42:58
3. "Under the Gun" 43:00
4. "Punked" 42:39
5. "Anatomy of Murder" 42:44
6. "3XK" 43:02
7. "Almost Famous" 41:30
8. "Murder Must Fowl" 42:41
9. "Close Encounters of the Murderous Kind" 42:23
10. "Last Call" 42:40
11. "Nikki Heat" 42:03
12. "Poof! You're Dead" 42:56
13. "Knockdown" 43:04
14. "Lucky Stiff" 42:55
15. "The Final Nail" 42:55
16. "Set Up, Part 1" 42:58
17. "Countdown, Part 2" 42:59
18. "One Life to Lose" 42:39
19. "Law & Murder" 42:41
20. "Slice of Death" 42:52
21. "The Dead Pool" 42:58
22. "To Love and Die in L.A." 42:50
23. "Pretty Dead" 42:13
24. "Knockout" 43:01
Packaging has a thin outer box that you can remove from the top or bottom to get to the case inside, just like the previous sets. Both the thin outer box and case have the same artwork for both the front and back. The cover has a nice full body photos of Castle and Beckett at night in New York City as they are each sitting on a chair...handcuffed. The show logo is present in white lettering towards the bottom. The tagline "Solving murder has never been so much fun," appears below that. The back has a dark blue background with information on the set, three episodic screen shots from episodes and also a nice gallery photo of Castle & Beckett. There is also a red box section detailing the bonus features box with technical specifications also.
Opening the case, on the left side we see some inserts which includes an ad for the ABC Store with items like a black Castle t-shirt. On both the left and right panels we have nice artwork of episodic photos along with a disc-by-disc breakdown of episode titles. I wish there were shots of Beckett's sexy dressed from the episodes "Almost Famous" and "Lucky Stiff," along with the swimsuit bikini shot from "To Love and Die in L.A." OK, I'll continue now. The discs are on plastic holders, like the previous set, that you can flip a page in a book. Plastic holder one holds disc one on the front side and disc two on the back side. Plastic holder two holds disc three on the front side and disc four on the back side. Disc five is on the right panel itself. Disc artwork is very nice and has that dark blue background, matching the set's color scheme. Disc one has episodes 1-5 with artwork of Richard Castle. Disc two has episodes 6-10 and has artwork of Kate Beckett. Disc three has episodes 11-15 and has artwork of Alexis & Martha. Disc four has episodes 16-20 and has artwork of Ryan, Esposito, Captain Montgomery, and Lanie. And disc five has episodes 21-24 plus bonus features and has artwork of both Castle and Beckett. This is similar to the previous set.
The menu screen starts with the opening credits from the series with the theme music, then we get to the main menu where we see moving video images with the closing theme playing in the background, similar to the previous sets. The options on the main menu are Play All, Episode Selection, Set Up, Bonus Features, and Sneak Peeks. But before the main menu screen comes on disc one, we get some auto sneak peeks: ABC on DVD, The Lion King, and AfricanCats. Sneak Peeks option is only found on disc five on the main menu and has previews of The Chew, ABC Fall 2011, Body of Proof, Prep & Landing, Real Steel, and Pirates of the Caribbean. These also auto play before the main menu on disc five. Set Up section has the option of subtitles in English, French or Spanish and how you can register your DVD. The Episodes option gives us the episode number, title and a screenshot. Bonus Features option has all the extras listed and this is on every disc, rather than just disc five. All of the sub-menus have different background music from the show. Catchy!
The video is digitally mastered and is in widescreen and looks very good! The audio is great and sounds very good, as it is in Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound. Both the audio and video is similar to the previous sets. This is from 2010-2011, so it had better be good. There is nothing to complain at all here...it is perfect! Perfection here. There are about 7 or 8 chapter stops per episode. We also get the 30 second series opening preview that was used for about the first half of this season. We get to hear the closing theme as well, whistles and all! All of Stana Katic's "previously on Castle" teasers that were used in a few episodes are intact.
Moving on the bonus features. We get audio commentaries this time, as on the last set we didn't get any. But first, on disc one in the episodes menu we have a "Starter Kit" for the series as you can catch up in 4:30. Moving on to the actual extras, we have deleted scenes and audio commentary on disc one. We have a deleted scene for the season premiere "A Deadly Affair" (0:52), where we are shown the actual scene that aired followed by the director's cut. I wish they kept that director's cut, you'll have to see why! We also have audio commentary for "Deadly Affair" from showrunner Andrew W. Marlow, executive producer Rob Bowman, and star Nathan Fillion. This is very informative and they also talk about the director's cut of that "reduced" scene. On to disc two, we have actual deleted scenes on this disc: "3XK" (0:44), "Almost Famous" (1:37 and 0:47), and "Murder Must Fowl" (0:43). We also have an audio commentary on the thrilling episode "3XK" from director Bill Roe, writer David Amann, and stars Seamus Dever and Jon Huertas! These guys are just as fun as the guys from the other audio commentary! For disc three, we have more deleted scenes: "Nikki Heat" (0:16 and 0:48) and "Knockdown ("0:43 and 2:10). Disc four has two more deleted scenes: ""Set Up" (0:43) and an extended sexy intro for the scene featuring Rebecca Budig and Corbin Bernsen from the soap-themed episode "One Life to Lose" (0:35).
On to disc five, where the bulk of the extras are, we have a cool featurette titled "Murder They Wrote" (22:03). It is a roundtable discussion between different types of writers: TV writers Andrew Marlowe & Rob Bowman, novelist Michael Connelly, and graphic artist novelist Brian Michael Bendis. Nathan Fillion makes a special guest appearance as well to talk about what it is like playing a writer on TV. Next we have "Castle Goes Hollywood" (7:58). Find out what it was like doing an episode set in L.A. when the series actually tapes in L.A. but is set in NY. Interviewed are Andrew Marlowe, Nathan Fillion, Rich Sickler (first AD), George Shockley (location manager), John Terlesky (director), Stana Katic, Luke Reichle (costume designer), Rob Bowman, Gene Simmons, Laurie Zaks (executive producer), Alexi Hawley (co-producer/writer), Alfred Sole (production designer), Edward Morrison (hair), and Sarah Vaughn (make-up for Stana Katic). Next, we have some "Misdemeanors: Bloopers & Outtakes" (4:13)...yes, bloopers! See all the goofs and play on the set, as get more bloopers this time! We also have deleted scenes from the episodes "To Love & Die in L.A." (0:35) and "Knockout" (0:39 and 0:17). Up next, we have "Murder Boards" (3:23), as we learn who writes the murder boards up on the show. They are so detailed! Kurt DeFilipps is the man behind the murder board! And finally we have a music video from the episode "Lucky Stiff" where we see Castle and Becket (in that sexy dress) go inside a night club to make an arrest. The music video is called "Get On the Floor" (2:14).
What a season! Nearly every episode is memorable! I recommend this series and set once again...it is an ABC Studios DVD, so it is good and filled with special features. This series really got cooking last season, from start to finish. Season two was when it started to break out, and it continues and gets better in season three! This DVD is awesome as we get of course all 24 great episodes from the third season, great packaging, and great extras. I don't understand why the DVD is coming out on Sept. 20, when the third season launches a day before on Sept. 19. They have done this for the third time. ABC did re-air the show this summer on Sundays briefly before moving back to Mondays in August. So I hope you saw them all, if not, for sure get this DVD. Everyone needs to be watching this show and I think it will get even better this season as we will see the conclusion to what happened on the third season finale. That was the best season finale on TV last season. You don't have to 'move that ass and get on the floor' to buy this set, just click below and say "I really am running the hits, aren't I", like Rick Castle!
(4.5/5 stars)
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When a person dies, sometimes the greatest mystery of life has yet to begin. There are often questions as to how they died or why they died, and in the ABC series Body of Proof, Dr. Megan Hunt (Dana Delany) uses her medical expertise to try to answer these mysteries every single day. Here is our review of Body of Proof - The Complete First Season.
DVD Review: Body of Proof - The Complete First Season
Body of Proof - The Complete First Season (ABC Studios, $29.99) brings the first 9 episodes of the new medical examiner crime drama on a 2-disc DVD set! The series produced 13 episodes, but ABC is holding the remaining four episodes for the second season, so if the series is picked-up for a full 22-episode season, it will have at least 26 all-new episodes this season. The series stars Dana Delany as Dr. Megan Hunt, a medical examiner. The series debuted last spring to critical acclaim for Dana Delany and the rest of its talented cast, as well as for the show's taut writing, and it finished the season as TV's most-watched new series of 2010-11. In fact, it is ABC's most-watched series in the time slot in 10 years (NYPD Blue). Brilliant and driven neurosurgeon Dr. Megan Hunt had it all, or so she thought. As the first female Head of Neurosurgery at a prominent Philadelphia university hospital, she never appreciated how the demands of her profession were taking a toll on her personal life until her husband divorced her and she lost custody of their then seven-year-old daughter. Still reeling from this emotional trauma, Megan soon suffered a physical one, a car accident that left her with a condition called paresthesia -- random attacks of numbness and cramping of her hands. Tragically, this condition failed to manifest itself until Megan's first trip back to the operating room. She lost control of her instruments and her patient died on the table. Megan's life as a neurosurgeon was over.
The series airs Tuesdays at 10PM on ABC and stars Dana Delany stars as Dr. Megan Hunt, Jeri Ryan as Dr. Kate Murphey, John Carroll Lynch as Detective Bud Morris, Nicholas Bishop as Peter Dunlop, Sonja Sohn as Detective Samantha Baker, Geoffrey Arend as Dr. Ethan Gross, Windell D. Middlebrooks as Dr. Curtis Brumfield and Mary Mouser as Lacey Fleming. Recurring is Jeffrey Nordling as Todd Fleming.
Guest stars include Tony Plana, Christina Hendricks, Marc Blucas, Joanna Cassidy, and Jill Eikenberry.
The series is off to a good start. It still needs to find its footing, I think, but I see loads of potential with this show, like I did with Castle's first season. It doesn't have the younger cast of that series, but Dana Delany, Jeri Ryan and Nicholas Bishop will draw viewers after Dancing with the Stars: The Results. The series could potentially win its timeslot this fall in total viewers, with CBS's The Good Wife moving to Sundays. Anyway, as for the first season, it starts off with the "Pilot" where we are introduced to Dr. Megan Hunt, a former neurosurgeon and now a medical examiner and she and her partner investigate the death of Angela Swanson, a young woman found dead while jogging. In "Talking Heads," after a homeless man comes across the dismembered remains of a body in a field, Dr. Megan Hunt must use the available limbs to find her killer, while Lacey has chosen her mother's job to do a video project on for school, much to her mother's dismay. In "Dead Man Walking," the mysterious death of a beautiful woman keeps Ethan and Curtis guessing and when Ethan gets fixated on the woman's twin sister (Christina Hendricks), so Curtis starts to question Ethan's motives, while Megan must find out if a patient at the hospital where she used to work as a neurosurgeon died of murder or malpractice. In "All in the Family," a perfect neighborhood in the Philadelphia suburbs is shaken when a stay-at-home dad is found stabbed to death in his home, as Megan unravels the mystery of his death and who killed him, she recalls how she learned of her own father's death, while Peter helps Megan juggle her biggest challenge yet, taking charge of the Saturday carpool with her hard-to-impress daughter, Lacey, and her girlfriends and in a shocker Kate takes on a consulting role in a pro bono case with Megan's ex-husband, Todd Fleming. On the season finale, "Broken Home," when a young philanthropic socialite dies, Megan suspects that foul play is involved and the investigation is then interrupted by Kate's personal life.
The episodes run usually around 43 minutes, all unedited of course. They are very consistent. There are about 6 or 7 chapter stops per episode. See the runtimes for each episode below:
1. "Pilot" 43:00
2. "Letting Go" 43:01
3. "Helping Hand" 43:00
4. "Talking Heads" 44:01
5. "Dead Man Walking" 43:02
6. "Society Hill" 43:00
7. "All in the Family" 42:38
8. "Buried Secrets" 42:59
9. "Broken Home" 43:00
Packaging has a nice thing cover holding a case and has shot of Dr. Megan Hunt looking over a dead body on the front cover...the back cover has information on the series & set and has five episodic photos featuring nearly everyone from the cast. There is also a section detailing the special features in a darker colored box with technical specifications also. Inside the box is the case. The front of the case has the same artwork as the outer box, and the same goes true for the back of the case. Opening the case, we get a few inserts on the left side and also a disc-by-disc breakdown and a nice cast photo that are on both panels. We don't get an episode booklet since the episodes are listed on the panels. Disc one is in a little plastic holder that you can flip like a page on a book, but oddly disc two is on the right panel itself. It should have been on the backside of the little plastic holder, I think. Not a big deal, I guess. Both discs are in a red/peach style color and has artwork of a few characters per disc. Disc one has episodes 1-5 with artwork of Megan and the two detectives. Disc two has episodes 6-9 + bonus features and has artwork of the hospital staff (Kate, Peter, Curtis and Ethan). After you remove the second disc, you see the nice cast photo on the panels itself like I mentioned...very cool.
The menu screen starts by showing us with a white background and a shot of r. Megan Hunt before video clips are playing in the background. It is nicely designed. Background music from the show is playing in the background. On disc one before the main menu we have auto trailers for DVDs of ABC on DVD, Lion King and African Cats. The options on the main menu are Play All, Episode Selection, Bonus Features, Set Up, and Sneak Peeks. Sneak Peeks is just on two and has trailers for the new ABC 2011 series Castle, The Chew, Prep & Landing, Real Steel and Pirates of the Caribbean. Set Up section has the option of subtitles in English, French, Spanish, or Portuguese and how to register your DVD. The Bonus Features option is on disc two only. The Episodes option gives us the episode number and title to choose along with a screenshot from the episode.
The video is digitally mastered and is in widescreen and looks very good! It's HD-like, even though it isn't Blu-ray. I have a DVD player that upconverts to HD, so who needs a Blu-ray player? Ha. The audio is great and sounds very good, as it is in Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound. This is from the 2010-11 season and aired from March-May, so it has to be good. We also get to hear the nice closing theme, as on ABC there are promos at the end of the episode. And as mentioned, we get 7 chapter stops, though some only have six (like the pilot).
Moving on to the bonus features. Only disc two has features. We have two featurettes! The first one is "Examining the Proof" (10:20) and we get an inside look on how the medical cases are delivered. There is a lot of background information and consulting done! They try hard! Interviewed are executive producers Matthew Gross, Sunil Nayar, star Dana Delany, Dr. Kristen Van DeWalker (medical advisor), Christopher Murphey (executive producer), Dr. Elizabeth LaPosata (medical advisor), Jeri Ryan, Audra Avery (set designer), Steven Wolff (production designer), Windell D. Middlebrooks, John Ruggieri (SPFX coordinator), Joseph Rossi (department head, SPFX make-up), John Carroll Lynch, Geoffrey Arend, Nic Bishop and Sonja Sohn. Next we have a lighter featurette titled "If Looks Could Kill" (5:32), as this discusses the wardrobe on the series from costume designer Roberta Haze. She is interviewed along with Matthew Gross, Dana Delany, Sunil Nayar, Jeri Ryan, Marcel Chevalier (assistant costume designer), Christopher Murphey, Nic Bishop, Windell D. Middlebrooks, and Geoffrey Arend. The final real extra is "Body of Goofs" (3:39), as we are treated to bloopers and outtakes from the first season. John Carroll Lynch is funny. And finally we have a promo for season two: "New Evidence: A Sneak Peek at Season 2" (0:47).
I highly recommend this series and set to start your collection. I have a feeling it will break out this season in quality and ratings. Dana Delay is always great and the cast around her already has good chemistry, especially Windell D. Middlebrooks and Geoffrey Arend. While the first season's quality of episodes is decent, it could be better. The special features are good for a series with just 9 episodes aired so far. I wish we had some deleted scenes and audio commentaries, though, but other than that, there is nothing to gripe about. It's a good show that will just get better. We hope to see this show and Dana Delany on TV for years to come! Tune in for the season premiere on Tuesday at 10/9c on ABC (the same day this DVD comes out). Super duper!
(4/5 stars)
Body of Proof on TV.com
CLICK OF THE WEEK
TVparty (www.tvparty.com) - Some of the greatest TV websites out there are true classics, and TVparty is one of them. When the website began, an astonishing 16 years ago (who even used the internet back then???), it was one of the premiere websites in classic TV. These days, as we have become more reliant on a handful of blogs, YouTube, and social networking for all of our internet needs, people don't seem to talk as much about the website as much as they used to. But if you go to the site, you'll see why they definitely should.
TVparty is one of the best websites out there for content and commentary on classic TV culture. "Hosted" by Billy Ingram, a pop culture expert who often makes media appearances, the website goes far beyond the basics and mundane of classic TV; instead, it is an in-depth analysis of classic TV. You'll find interviews, long lost video clips (which never seem to make it to DVD, even on sets loaded with special features), and new thoughts on things that were believed to be "said and done." For example, many years ago, cigarette advertising was allowed on television in the United States, and TVparty has a very thorough page dedicated to classic cigarette advertisements. You can even see the infamous video of Fred and Barney of The Flintstones smoking cigarettes from the original run of the series, which would make any arguments over using the characters to promote a sugary cereal like Fruity Pebbles these days seem ridiculous. And the website is definitely not a graveyard website. It is constantly being updated, as can be seen in the website's blog. TVparty is definitely one party that you should visit today!
That's all for this week. Until next time, keep it digital!
Posted by Skees -- SitcomsOnline.com at 4:00 PM
Labels: Blog DVD Reviews, Castle, Digital Digest
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Rails.application.config.session_store :cookie_store, key: '_thundercoders_session'
| {
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This is an oldie but a goodie! This is in fact one of my favorite reviews I have ever done! This is Final Fight on the SNES! This is one awesome game and packs one serious punch! If you have not played this yet you sure are missing out! | {
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Save time at your appointment by providing your patient information online at least 2 hours before your appointment time.
Free summer gym membership + scholarship sweepstakes = two amazing incentives to work out. 💪Share this with any teens you know!
Does everyone in your family know what to do during an emergency? 🤔 Take the time to create and practice an emergency family communication plan.
Q: What makes a #fluseason a "high" or "low" severity season?
Timeline Photos Ready to schedule an appointment? 📞 It's simple - just give us a call at (816) 404-6416.
Join us at the Independence AMC on Thursday, May 16 for a special screening of Suicide: The Ripple Effect.
Get tested This time of year can bring holiday romance, but with STDs at record highs, will you be ready when sparks fly? We offer confidential testing Monday through Friday. | {
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Home » Archive by category "Research News (General)"
Category Archives: Research News (General)
Freezing of gait (FoG) is a disabling symptom of Parkinson's Disease, characterised by patients becoming stuck while walking and unable to move forward. It is well-known to lead to falls and lower quality of life, making it an important target for treatment.
Research has linked FoG to aspects of attention and cognitive control. Patients with Parkinson's Disease who self-reported FoG and who were free from dementia were randomly allocated to receive either a cognitive training intervention or an active control.
65 patients were randomised into the study. 20 patients were randomly assigned to the cognitive training intervention and 18 were randomised to the active control group. Both groups were clinician-led and conducted twice-weekly for seven weeks. The primary outcome was the percentage of time spent frozen during a 'Timed Up and Go' task, assessed while patients were both on and off
dopaminergic medications.
A large and statistically significant reduction in FoG severity was shown in patients in the cognitive training group on dopaminergic medication, compared to participants in the active control group on dopaminergic medication. Patients who received cognitive training also showed improved cognitive processing speed and reduced daytime sleepiness compared to those in the active control while accounting for the effect of dopaminergic medication. There was no difference between groups when they were tested without their regular dopaminergic medication. More studies using larger samples are needed to investigate this initial finding that cognitive training can reduce the severity of freezing of gait in Parkinson's diseases patients.
Paper: "Cognitive training for freezing of gait in Parkinson's Disease: a randomised controlled trial"
Reprinted by materials provided by The University of Sydney
Moderate to high intensity exercise does not slow cognitive impairment in older people with dementia, a trial published by The BMJ finds. The view that exercise might slow cognitive decline has gained popularity, however, recent reviews of trials of exercise training in people with dementia have shown conflicting results.
A team of UK researchers decided to estimate the effect of a moderate to high intensity aerobic and strength exercise training programme on cognitive impairment and other outcomes in people with dementia. 494 people with mild to moderate dementia living in the community across 15 regions of England were involved. Participants were randomly assigned to either a supervised exercise and support programme or to usual care. The main outcome was an Alzheimer's disease assessment score (ADAS-cog) at 12 months. Other (secondary) outcomes included activities of daily living, number of falls, and quality of life.
Compliance with exercise was good and participants were assessed again at six and 12 months. The researchers found that cognitive impairment declined over the 12-month follow-up in both groups. The exercise group showed improved physical fitness in the short term, but higher ADAS-cog scores at 12 months (25.2 v 23.8) compared with the usual care group, indicating worse cognitive impairment.
Paper: "Dementia And Physical Activity (DAPA) trial of moderate to high intensity exercise training for people with dementia: randomised controlled trial"
Reprinted by materials provided by The BMJ
Lifetime risks of developing Alzheimer's disease dementia vary considerably by age, gender and the presence of any signs or symptoms of dementia, a new study by Alzheimer's & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer's Association reports.
These are the first lifetime risk estimates for Alzheimer's that take into account what are believed to be biological changes in the brain that occur 10 to 20 years before memory and thinking symptoms appear. These early changes are referred to as preclinical Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers provide the example of a 90-year-old female with amyloid plaques having a lifetime risk of Alzheimer's disease of only 8.4 percent, compared to a 65-year-old female with amyloid plaques who has a lifetime risk of 29.3 percent. The shorter life expectancy of the older person explains the lower lifetime risk for this person over that of the 65 year old.
That same 65-year-old with amyloid plaques has a 10-year risk of Alzheimer's disease dementia of 2.5 percent. Lifetime risks for females are generally higher than males because they live longer. The authors state that the lifetime and 10-year risks are an indication of the potential that someone will develop Alzheimer's disease dementia based on their age and screenings for amyloid deposits, neurodegeneration and presence or absence of MCI or any combination of those three.
Paper: "Estimation of lifetime risks of Alzheimer's disease dementia using biomarkers for preclinical disease"
Reprinted by materials provided by the Alzheimer's Association
Enhanced lifestyle counselling prevents cognitive decline even in people who are carriers of the APOE4 gene, a common risk factor of Alzheimer's disease, according to a new study published in JAMA Neurology.
The two-year FINGER trial involved 60–77 year-old people living in Finland with risk factors for memory disorders. The study participants were divided into two groups: one of the groups was given regular lifestyle counselling and the other enhanced lifestyle counselling. Enhanced counselling involved nutrition counselling, physical and cognitive exercises and support in managing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Earlier findings from the FINGER trial have shown that the regular lifestyle counselling group had a significantly increased risk of cognitive and functional impairment compared to the intervention group, i.e. the group receiving enhanced counselling.
Now the researchers analysed whether the presence of the APOE4 gene affected the intervention results. The analysis included 1,109 persons of whom 362 were carriers of the APOE4 gene.
The findings show that enhanced lifestyle counselling prevented cognitive decline despite the presence of the risk gene. Analyses carried out within the groups also indicate that the intervention results might even be better in carriers of the APOE4 gene.
Paper: "Effect of the Apolipoprotein E Genotype on Cognitive Change During a Multidomain Lifestyle Intervention"
Reprinted from materials provided by the University of Eastern Finland.
New research sheds light on how a breakdown in the brain's vascular system predates the accumulation of toxic plaques and tangles in the brain that bring about Alzheimer's disease.
Nearly 50 percent of all dementias, including Alzheimer's, begins with the breakdown of the smallest blood vessels in the brain and their protective "gatekeeper cells," according to the study, published in Nature Medicine.
That catastrophe causes a communications failure called small vessel disease. Many people with that disease also have white matter disease, the wearing away of fatty myelin that allows neurons to transfer messages within the brain network. In an animal model, researchers found that brain deterioration associated with dementia may start as early 40 in humans.
For more than 25 years, scientists have known that white matter disease impedes a person's ability to learn or remember new things, slows thinking and causes people to fall more often due to balance issues. They identified a link between crippled small blood vessels in the brain and white matter disease but didn't know what started that process until now.
The study explains that pericytes, gatekeeper cells that surround the brain's smallest blood vessels, play a critical role in white matter health and disease via fibrinogen, a protein that circulates in blood. Fibrinogen develops blood clots so wounds can heal. When gatekeeper cells are compromised, an unhealthy amount of fibrinogen slinks into the brain and causes white matter and brain structures, including axons (nerve fibers) and oligodendrocytes (cells that produces myelin), to die.
In a mouse model, the researchers used an enzyme known to reduce fibrinogen in blood and the brain. White matter volume in the mice returned to 90 percent of their normal state, and white matter connections were back to 80 percent productivity, the study found.
Paper: "Pericyte degeneration causes white matter dysfunction in the mouse central nervous system"
Reprinted from materials provided by USC.
ALS and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) are two neurodegenerative diseases with a toxic relationship, according to a new paper published in Nature Medicine. The study describes how a mutation in a gene, called C9ORF72, leads to toxicity in nerve cells—causing 10 percent of all cases of ALS, and an additional 10 percent of FTD.
To understand how this happens, the researchers extracted blood from ALS patients carrying the C9ORF72 mutation, and reprogrammed these blood cells into the motor nerve cells that degenerate and die in the disease. They also extracted blood from healthy patients, reprogrammed these blood cells into motor nerve cells, and used gene editing to delete the C9ORF72 gene.
Whether patient-derived or gene-edited, all motor nerve cells with the mutation had reduced amounts of the protein normally made by the C9ORF72 gene. Furthermore, by adding supplemental C9ORF72 protein, the researchers could stop the motor nerve cells from degenerating.
Through a series of experiments, the researchers revealed that the motor nerve cells use C9ORF72 protein to build lysosomes—which are cellular compartments used to engulf and break down toxic proteins and other garbage.
Without enough lysosomes, the cells accumulate two key types of garbage. The first type is a large, toxic protein produced by the mutated C9ORF72 gene itself. The second type is an excessive number of receptors, or molecules that receive signals from a neurotransmitter known as glutamate. These receptors respond to glutamate by causing the motor nerve cell to activate. Too much activation can kill a motor nerve cell.
The researchers are now using patient-derived motor nerve cells to test potential drugs—with a focus on those that affect lysosomes.
Paper: "Haploinsufficiency leads to neurodegeneration in C9ORF72 ALS/FTD human induced motor neurons"
Reprinted from materials provided by the Keck School of Medicine at USC.
A team has developed a system to model Huntington's in human embryonic stem cells for the first time. In a report published in Development, they describe early abnormalities in the way Huntington's neurons look, and how these cells form larger structures that had not previously been associated with the disease.
Huntington's is one of the few diseases with a straightforward genetic culprit: One hundred percent of people with a mutated form of the Huntingtin (HTT) gene develop the disease. The mutation takes the form of extra DNA, and causes the gene to produce a longer-than-normal protein.
Research on Huntington's has thus far relied heavily on animal models of the disease. Suspecting that the disease works differently in humans, the researchers developed a cell-based human system for their research. They used the gene editing technology CRISPR to engineer a series of human embryonic stem cell lines, which were identical apart from the number of DNA repeats that occurred at the ends of their HTT genes.
When cells divide, they typically each retain one nuclei. However, some of these mutated cells flaunted up to 12 nuclei—suggesting that neurogenesis, or the generation of new neurons, was affected.
Treatments for Huntington's have typically focused on blocking the activity of the mutant HTT protein. However, this research shows that the brain disruption may actually be due to a lack of HTT protein activity. The researchers created cell lines that completely lacked the HTT protein. These cells turned out to be very similar to those with Huntington's pathology, corroborating the idea that a lack of the protein—not an excess of it—is driving the disease.
Article: "Chromosomal instability during neurogenesis in Huntington's disease."
Reprinted from materials provided by Rockefeller University.
People with Alzheimer's disease are known to have disturbances in their internal body clocks that affect sleep/wake cycle and may increase their risk of developing the disorder. Now, new research published in JAMA Neurology indicates that such circadian rhythm disruptions also occur much earlier in people whose memories are intact but whose brain scans show early, preclinical evidence of Alzheimer's disease.
Previous studies conducted in people and in animals have found that levels of amyloid fluctuate in predictable ways during the day and night. Amyloid levels decrease during sleep, and several studies have shown that levels increase when sleep is disrupted or when people don't get enough deep sleep.
The researchers tracked circadian rhythms in 189 cognitively normal, older adults with an average age of 66. Of the participants, 139 had no evidence of the amyloid protein that signifies preclinical Alzheimer's. Most had normal sleep/wake cycles, although several had circadian disruptions that were linked to advanced age, sleep apnea or other causes.
But among the other 50 subjects — who either had abnormal brain scans or abnormal cerebrospinal fluid — all experienced significant disruptions in their internal body clocks, determined by how much rest they got at night and how active they were during the day. Disruptions in the sleep/wake cycle remained even after the researchers statistically controlled for sleep apnea, age and other factors.
By tracking activity during the day and night, the researchers could tell how scattered rest and activity were throughout 24-hour periods. Subjects who experienced short spurts of activity and rest during the day and night were more likely to have evidence of amyloid buildup in their brains, the researchers said.
Paper: "Circadian Rest-Activity Pattern Changes in Aging and Preclinical Alzheimer Disease"
Reprinted from materials provided by Washington University School of Medicine.
A new study published in Scientific Reports shows that low levels of alcohol consumption may tamp down inflammation and help the brain clear away toxins, including those associated with Alzheimer's disease.
The research focused on the glymphatic system, the brain's unique cleaning process that was first described by the same researchers in 2012. They showed how cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) is pumped into brain tissue and flushes away waste, including the proteins beta amyloid and tau that are associated with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. Subsequent research has shown that the glymphatic system is more active while we sleep, can be damaged by stroke and trauma, and improves with exercise.
The new study, which was conducted in mice, looked at the impact of both acute and chronic alcohol exposure. When they studied the brains of animals exposed to high levels of alcohol over a long period of time, the researchers observed high levels of a molecular marker for inflammation, particularly in cells called astrocytes which are key regulators of the glymphatic system. They also noted impairment of the animal's cognitive abilities and motor skills.
Animals that were exposed to low levels of alcohol consumption, analogous to approximately 2 ½ drinks per day, actually showed less inflammation in the brain and their glymphatic system was more efficient in moving CSF through the brain and removing waste, compared to control mice who were not exposed to alcohol. The low dose animals' performance in the cognitive and motor tests was identical to the controls.
Paper: "Beneficial effects of low alcohol exposure, but adverse effects of high alcohol intake on glymphatic function."
Reprinted from materials provided by the University of Rochester Medical Center | {
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Stack Overflow published their eight Annual Developer Survey results this year, which saw over 100,000 developers take the 30-minute survey. Stack Overflow, a popular developer community and jobs site, revealed the most-popular, top-earning, and preferred programming languages in their 2018 developer survey.
Kotlin and Mozilla-developed Rust emerged as the most-loved programming languages, according to Stack Overflow's 2018 developer survey. For the first time, the coders were asked about the Java-friendly Kotlin by Stack Overflow. The reason probably could be because of the full support that Google gave it in the Android Studio integrated development environment last year.
This week, Kotlin was rated as the second-fastest growing language after Apple's Swift for iOS and macOS app development, by RedMonk, a developer analyst firm.
According to Stack Overflow, Python is one of the fastest-growing languages in the ranks of programming languages on our survey, surpassing C# in popularity this year, much like it surpassed PHP last year.
In the survey, the developers were asked about their outlook to the future of artificial intelligence (AI). While 73 percent of respondents are more excited about its opportunities than worried by its dangers, only a quarter of them agree with Tesla CEO Elon Musk's view that government should regulate AI. The cutting edge AI "scares the hell out of me" said Musk this week.
Developers working with Erlan, Scala, Ocaml, Clojure, Go, Groovy, and Objective-C in the U.S. get the highest paid salaries ranging between $110,000 to $115,000. On the other hand, developers working with F# have the highest salaries around the world.
While the median salary of developers globally is $55,000, but the median salary of developers in the U.S. is almost double at $100,000. Other countries with median salaries above $90,000 include Switzerland and Israel, while programmers in the UK and Germany earn on average just over $60,000.
The last year's survey done by Stack Overflow attracted criticism for the way the women and other minorities who used their site were treated. To avoid any controversy this year, the report has not included the 'Female Developer Age' or questions such as identify as ninjas, rockstars, or gurus or whether developers prefer Star Wars or Star Trek.
While more than 90 percent respondents of the 2018 survey are men, Stack Overflow says that nine percent of U.S. survey respondents this year are women. However, just 6.8 percent of respondents around the world are women, which saw a one percent drop since last year's survey.
The survey also looked at the varied representation of women and men in different developer roles.
Stack Overflow finds that women have the highest representation as academics, QA developers, data scientists, and designers. System admins and DevOps specialists are 25 to 30 times more likely to be men than women, while developers who are educators or academic researchers are about 10 times more likely to be men than women. | {
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Q: React, using Hooks to create component I am trying to use a hook to create a textbox that provides the value state as part of the hook.
However, I am not quite successful, as the textbox keeps losing focus whenever I tried to type.
This probably makes more sense if I show what I am doing.
Please see this Codepen for a quick demo. (https://codepen.io/david_yau/pen/RwWVoKz?editors=1111)
Detail explaination
// My first attempt
// App.jsx, the App
const App = () => {
const [text, TextBox] = useTextBox();
return (
<div>
<TextBox />
<p>
text: {text}
</p>
</div>
)
}
// useTextBox.jsx
const useTextBox = () => {
const [text, setText] = React.useState("");
const onChange = (event) => {
setText(event.target.value);
}
const TextBox = () => {
return (
<input type="text" value={text} onChange={onChange} />
)
};
return [text, TextBox];
}
This way won't work because each time I typed in the textbox, the focus will be lost.
However, if I change the implementation to the following it will work.
The difference between this implementation is that the one above is rendering a new TextBox with <TextBox />. While the bottom one is using a rendered Textbox instead like {TextBox}.
// App.jsx
const App = () => {
const [text, TextBox] = useTextBoxOne();
return (
<div>
<h1> This one work </h1>
{TextBox}
<p>
text: {text}
</p>
</div>
)
}
// useTextBox.jsx
const useTextBox = () => {
const [text, setText] = React.useState("");
const onChange = (event) => {
setText(event.target.value);
}
const TextBox = (
<input type="text" value={text} onChange={onChange} />
);
return [text, TextBox];
}
If it helps at all, I got this idea from this course: https://frontendmasters.com/courses/complete-react-v5/, around the "Custom Hook" session.
Just to reiterate the question since this is quite a long post. I am wondering why does the first approach does not work because it keeps losing focus, while the second one does.
A: Because const TextBox = () => <input /> will create a different React component every time useTextBoxTwo() is called, while const TextBox = <input /> is just a React element, rendered in the same Component (in App).
In the current implementation, when the element inside a component changes, ReactDOM checks whether it has the same element name (e.g. "input") and doesn't have a different key - when true, it re-uses the same DOM element, e.g. following 2 React-elements will reuse the same DOM-element (not losing focus):
{condition ? <input value="a" /> : <input value="b" />}
But 2 different React Components will trigger unmounting of the old one, removing it from DOM, and mounting of the new one, creating a new DOM element (=> losing focus).
So, don't create components inside custom hooks, create custom components that use hooks.
| {
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You are at:Home»News»Is this more important than saving lives?
Is this more important than saving lives?
The deadline for legislators to pass House bills on the floor of the Texas House of Representatives quickly approaches. State representatives give the impression that they have already passed their top priorities for the short 140-day legislative session. And they may have, despite the fact that no Pro-Life bills have reached the floor. However, their lack of action on the Pro-Life issue this session has alarmed Pro-Life voters, conservative members of the Texas House of Representatives, and Texas Right to Life. Members of the House stood with Texas Right to Life at a press conference on Tuesday, May 2, calling attention to the need for urgency. Pro-Life Representatives must act quickly if the House is to pass any protections for preborn children this session.
Leadership is preparing "but we ran out of time" excuses for campaign season. Seeking reelection, Republican-In-Name-Only (RINO) members will attempt to convince voters that there were simply not enough days in the session to address important issues. RINO politicians will claim they were only able to pass weak Pro-Life bills because stronger, life-saving bills were left in committee or placed disingenuously on dead calendars.
To sort through the expected rhetoric of such politicians, let us examine the facts. In the final week before the deadline to pass House bills, what did the Texas House make time to consider?
Urging Texans not to use the flag emoji of the Republic of Chile when referring to the Texas flag.
The final days during which Pro-Life House bills may be passed are rapidly expiring. Failing to pass substantive Pro-Life reforms threatens the lives of our most vulnerable Texans: the preborn, the disabled, and the elderly. After the Texas House considers the merits of the closest emoji substitute for the Texas flag, we urge the Texas House of Representatives to pass necessary life-saving bills. Failure to do so is not due to lack of available time but to misplaced priorities. | {
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U.S. business borrowing for equipment recovers in July, says trade association
Aug 24 (Reuters) - U.S. companies' borrowings in July fell 3% from a year earlier, recovering from double-digit declines in the two months prior and signaling a comeback from the impact of the pandemic, the Equipment Leasing and Finance Association (ELFA) said on Monday.
ELFA's leasing and finance index measures the volume of commercial equipment financed in the United States.
The index is based on a survey of 25 members, including Bank of America Corp, CIT Group Inc and the financing affiliates or units of Caterpillar Inc, Dell Technologies Inc, Siemens AG, Canon Inc and Volvo AB.
The trade association said U.S. companies signed up for $9.1 billion in new loans, leases and lines of credit last month, down from $9.4 billion a year earlier. That was an improvement from a 10% drop in June to $8.9 billion and a 26% plunge in May to $6.7 billion.
"In the face of rising COVID-19 cases in some areas of the country, equipment demand remains solid in certain market sectors and weak in others," ELFA Chief Executive Officer Ralph Petta said.
"The hope is that, as we move into the third quarter, economic growth turns a corner and Americans return to work."
Washington-based ELFA, which reports economic activity for the nearly $1-trillion equipment finance sector, said credit approvals totaled 72.9% in July, up from 71.5% in June.
The Equipment Leasing and Finance Foundation, ELFA's non-profit affiliate, reported a monthly confidence index of 48.4% in August, an increase from 45.3% in July. (Reporting by Ankit Ajmera in Bengaluru; Editing by Ramakrishnan M.) | {
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Primal Health | Are the Japanese the Healthiest People in the World?
13 Jul Are the Japanese the Healthiest People in the World?
Is the Japanese diet really that healthy?
Most people attribute the long average lifespan of the Japanese to a mostly primal diet rich in seafood. While it is true that the Japanese do eat a good amount of seafood, including various types of nutrient-rich seaweeds, these days their traditional foods are very processed and often replaced with modern commercial western foods.
We have only lived in the Tokyo area, and I would assume the big cities suffer more from this food commercialisation than the rural villages and countryside towns. However, in the Tokyo area, Japanese people often eat a breakfast not unlike the SAD (Standard American Diet) breakfast: boxed cereals, processed milk, bakery goods, or just coffee and toast. There are bakeries absolutely everywhere, offering sugary processed alternatives to the traditional Japanese breakfast of rice, fermented soybeans, fish and vegetables for many city-dwelling Japanese.
In addition to fancy cakes, crepes, profiteroles and other European sweets, there are plenty of traditional Japanese desserts, mostly made from rice and beans, which makes them seem much healthier, even though they are sweetened with sugar. When not homemade, however, they are laden with the usual preservatives, additives, and processed sugars and syrups.
We thought there were healthy food selections at 7-11, like this spinach and pork, until we translated the long ingredient list on the back of the package.
The same goes with pre-packaged bento boxes, sushi rolls, rice balls, and even salads. At a glance, they are traditional healthy goodness. Fish, seaweed, rice, radish, ginger, fermented veggies and the like. And yes, if Japanese meals are home-cooked with traditional ingredients, they are surely the staples of long-living, healthy people. But in bustling Tokyo and its sprawling suburbs, these traditional meals are packaged up with long ingredient lists that include stabilisers, preservatives, artificial colours and flavours, MSG, and various sugars. I talk about this in my article about eating gluten-free in Japan, as many traditionally gluten-free Japanese foods are now full of processed wheat. As in many other societies, traditions are not being passed onto the new generations, who only know a world of ready-made food.
Driving or taking a train through rural Japan, you can see plot after plot of home-grown and community-grown fruits and vegetables. I have no doubt this is a key factor in Japanese longevity. These days, however, a great number of Japanese buy most of their food from the supermarket, where the produce comes from heavily chemical sprayed farms and the meat is mostly factory farmed. There is also tons of imported food in the shops – American pork, bananas from the Philippines, Aussie beef, Vietnamese farmed fish – which our Japanese friends say is because it's just so much cheaper to import.
One Tokyo suburb supermarket had a section showing pictures and locations of the farmers who grew the food. But no information on chemical use.
Our few health-conscious Japanese friends have sourced organic or spray-free produce, through a weekly farm box delivery, but properly raised meat is hard to find and very expensive, so they just don't eat too much of it. There doesn't seem to be many places to buy organically grown/raised plant and animal food in Tokyo, though the magazine for the English-speaking community lists 4 weekly farmers markets, touting either organic, farm fresh or just local.
Ok, that line is a bit dramatic, but it's a favourite from a Metallica song and has a great ring of truth to it. For the Japanese, just as with the contradiction between their traditional and modern diet, there is a great gap between the traditional lifestyle which clearly promotes longevity, and the modern lifestyle which leads to rampant disease and untimely death.
The traditional lifestyle, still followed by millions of rural Japanese, is one of organic farming, affirming spiritual beliefs, and strong family ties. The elderly are cared for by their families, and continue to proudly work in their gardens and fields despite their age. With a traditional, unprocessed Japanese diet, you have a winning combination for a long, healthy life.
Modern times, however, has brought great economic and social pressures. The Japanese are very proud people, who would rather die than feel as if they have disgraced their company with poor performance or let their family down with less than the best success. Consequently, Japanese mothers feel it their duty to push their children hard into academic excellence. From a very young age, study hours are long, tutors are many and pressure is high.
Once in the workforce, businessmen are slaves to their company, if only shackled by pride and obligation. After long work hours and uncompensated overtime, workers are expected to socialise with colleagues over drinks long into the night. After a long train ride home, and a short sleep, they do it all over again, usually 6 days a week.
Japanese people sleep everywhere throughout the day, probably due to overwork and stress.
This lifestyle doesn't allow much time at all for sleep, self-nurturing, exercise, or for family bonds to develop. Many times the pressure, fatigue and loneliness are so great, it leads to suicide. There is even a Japanese term that translates as "death from overwork".
It's all these contradictions that make Japan so interesting and mysterious. The crossing over of ancient tradition and high technology, quiet rituals and chaotic cities, primal vs. modern diet and lifestyles.
It's really never enough to look at a list of the longest living peoples and make assumptions, as each country and culture is so complex, and true health is gained from a combination of factors which are never clear cut. However, by looking at the various cultures of the world – their traditions, daily habits and contradictions – we can begin to learn what may be best for our own health.
Do you think the Japanese diet and lifestyle are good models of health of longevity? Why? | {
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HomeGOVERNMENTSecretive TiSA Trade Deal Will Lead to 'Casino Capitalism' and Privacy Threat
Secretive TiSA Trade Deal Will Lead to 'Casino Capitalism' and Privacy Threat
September 3, 2016 TLB Staff GOVERNMENT, WORLD 0
Sputnik News
Campaigners have told Sputnik that while growing opposition to the proposed Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) has thrown the whole project into doubt, another trade agreement is being secretively negotiated which may have far-reaching consequences for democracy.
The Trade in Services Agreement (TiSA) is a trade agreement currently being negotiated by 23 members of the World Trade Organization (WTO), including the EU. Together, the participating countries account for 70% of world trade in services.
Unlike TTIP, TiSA is all about the provision of services and aims at opening up markets and improving rules in areas such as licensing, financial services, telecoms, e-commerce, maritime transport, and professionals moving abroad temporarily to provide services.
However, campaigners, including Global Justice Now, say the TiSA deal will lock in privatization of public services, will mean more "casino capitalism" because it will undermine efforts to regulate the financial sector and avoid another crisis and is also a threat to online privacy.
"This deal is a threat to the very concept of public services. It is a turbo-charged privatization pact, based on the idea that, rather than serving the public interest, governments must step out of the way and allow corporations to 'get on with it,'" Nick Dearden the director of Global Justice Now told Sputnik.
"Of particular concern, we fear TiSA will include clauses that will prevent governments taking public control of strategic services, and inhibit regulation of the very banks that created the financial crash. TiSA will also affect countries that haven't even had the opportunity to develop decent public services like Pakistan. No wonder Uruguay has already walked away from the talks. We urge MEPs to tell the European Union to do the same."
The EU has admitted that the talks have been secretive, stating on its website that:
"Like any other trade negotiations, the TiSA talks are not carried out in public and the documents are available to participants only."
According to Global Justice Now, the main mechanism for this in the deal is what is called a "ratchet clause." Once a country has unilaterally liberalized a services sector — such as health or postal services — by giving foreign companies the same or better treatment than national ones, it cannot reverse that measure for companies from TiSA member states. This means that while no country will be forced to privatize a public service, once foreign companies are allowed in to provide a service, it becomes much more difficult to reverse.
Data protection regulation is also a controversial area. Big business wants more control of the Internet and flows of data.
Specifically, many US firms want to be able to move data across borders at will. This would allow companies like Google and Facebook to move personal information to the USA where data protection laws are far laxer than in the EU, according to Global Justice Now.
ER recommends other articles by Sputnik News
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'ratchet clause'
corporate imperialism
financial sector regulations
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Bernie Sanders takes to Twitter advocating for GMO labeling while urging Congress to represent the PEOPLE, not just wealthy corporations
Agenda 21 becomes Agenda 2030 ~ What You Should Know
The World's New Order | {
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Home biography Nick Bateman
Nick Bateman Biography
Facts of Nick Bateman
1986 , November-18
Quick Timeline of Nick Bateman
1986 Born in Burlington, Ontario
2007 Television debut through Just for Laughs
2011 Movie debut from Ethos
2017 Total Net Worth
2008 Began dating Maria Corrigan
Detail Timeline of Nick Bateman
Born in Burlington, Ontario
Bateman was born on November 18, 1986, as Nicholas Kevin Stanley Yunge-Bateman Burlington, Ontario. He was born in a middle-class family in Canada and spent a long part of his life in Canada.
Television debut through Just for Laughs
Bateman made his television debut from 2007 television series, Just for Laughs where he played the role named Sideswipe Performer. His outstanding performance led him into numerous television series like Originals, Space Janitors and so on.
Movie debut from Ethos
Bateman took his first step in the movie industry through the 2011 short film, Ethos as Nick. He then got an opportunity for many movies including Hobo with a Shotgun, Tapped Out, Ugly Love and many others.
Total Net Worth
Nick Bateman receives a big chunk of money from his television series and his current net worth is estimated to be $750000. He is a traveler person and often seen in world expensive destination.
Began dating Maria Corrigan
Nick Bateman began dating his beautiful girlfriend, Maria Corrigan since July of 2008. His girlfriend worked along with Hannah Telle on the short film "Over & Out."
After being graduated from the University, Nick Bateman ran his own Karate School for three years and stopped pursuing his passion for acting.
In the beginning of his career, Bateman appeared in the numerous commercials and many brands. He then made his television debut through the 2007 television series, Just for Laughs where he portrayed the role named Sideswipe Performer. Later, he appeared in many television series like Originals, Space Janitors, My Babysitter's a Vampire, Mr. D, The Listener and much more.
Apart from this, Nick Bateman featured in many movies including Ethos, Hobo with a Shotgun, Tapped Out, Ugly Love and so on.
As an actor, Bateman has been honored with "Golden Maple Award" in 2016 for Outstanding Social Media Achievement Award.
Nick Bateman is in a relationship with his girlfriend, Maria Corrigan. The pair is enjoying their love affair for about nine years now. They began dating since 2008. However, they haven't revealed any plans for their marriage.
Bateman belongs to white ethnicity and holds a Canadian nationality.
He often posts the pictures with famous personalities that includes Andrea Bowen and Adam Senn etc.
Bateman is one of the rising and on-demand actors in the film industry. He is currently enjoying his new-found and acting career to the fullest. Within a short period, he has earned a great name as well as fame in the entertainment industry.
Bateman is very fond of dogs and often posts snaps with dogs on Instagram. As of 2017, his net worth is estimated to be around $750,000. He also receives reasonable earnings from his Instagram through brand promotion. He is also the face of Glamglow and has worked with Calvin Klein.
Bateman posts the pictures with the car on Instagram. He loves traveling and often shares the pictures while on holidays. | {
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Which of the following is Highly toxic gas ?
Which of the following cell or ganelles play the most significant role in protein synthesis ?
Who was the founder of Swatantra Party ?
Which one among the following places in India is nearest to the Tropic of Cancer ?
What was the main aim of land ceiling ?
Which one of the following is a tertiary activity ?
A positive income elasticity of demand is associated with normal goods: an increase in income will lead to a rise in demand. If income elasticity of demand of a commodity is less than 1, i t is a necessi ty good. I f the elasticity of demand is greater than 1, it is a luxury good or a superior good. | {
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A taste of Burma in the 828
Tuesday June 7th 2022
Published in AVL Today - June 7, 2022 In both WNC and across the Southeast, Burmese food is quite elusive — in fact, based on our research, Asheville's closest Burmese restaurant is all the way over in Carrboro (about a 3.5 hour drive).
This phenomenon is something Chef Yunanda Wilson, a recent graduate of A-B Tech's culinary arts program, hopes to change. In late May, she launched aThoke Ly a new Burmese food series that features playful spins on traditional dishes, plus special tea pairings from Hunter Strickland of High Climate Tea
The concept of "aThoke Lay" — which translates to "little salad" — expands far beyond traditional American assortments of ingredients like lettuce, cucumbers, and tomatoes. "It simply means a mixture of things," Yunanda explains. "From noodles to potato curry to tea leaves."
The fermented tea leaf salad is one of the most quintessential dishes that Yunanda prepares. In ancient times, the tea leaves were used as a peace symbol or or offering between warring kingdoms — and today, they're shared as a common expression of hospitality.
The base of the salad is made from the young, fresh-picked leaves of green or oolong tea, which are then fermented underground in clay or bamboo pots for months, re-emerging as an earthy, tangy concoction. Yunanda's take on the traditional dish includes fried garlic chips, bonito flakes, and scallions — all encased in a tomato — with a base of pureed purple cabbage and sticky coconut rice balls.
Yunanda, who moved from Burma to the US as a six-year old, also has a special mohinga recipe from her mother. The chowder-like rice noodle and fish soup, which simmers catfish in a lemongrass broth, comes served with a split-pea fritter that balances the dish with a gentle crunch.
Find more Alumni Success or News Coverage news.
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Home Ideas Page 402
Dreading Work On Monday? Try This.
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Home Tags Germany
Tag: Germany
SouthFront: Syria Battlespace – Dec. 2, 2015
southfront - December 2, 2015
The Syrian Army and the National Defense Forces, supported by Russian air strikes, managed to drive ISIS out of a long section of the strategic Aleppo-Raqqa highway in the northern part of Syria. According to the field reports, the Syrian troops' offensive forced the terrorists to retreat and suffer large casualties in the fighting.
NEO – Russia's Awesome Responsibility
Jim Davis - October 27, 2015
F. William Engdahl - It is an awesome responsibility Putin and the Russian state accepted to aid President Assad's war on terror. Clarity on the strategic goal for Russia and countries within its scope of influence is the next step.
Hot off the Press – Netanyahu is a History Revisionist
Gilad Atzmon - October 21, 2015
In the Hebraic sphere, they like to keep the equation simple – the eternal victim (the Jew) is the constant factor, the anti-Semite is the variable element. The anti Semite keeps changing, it never stops changing.
Duff in Germany, VT Gets "Graped"
Gordon Duff, Senior Editor - October 3, 2015
By Gordon Duff, Senior Editor photos copyright gduff Digging through the photos that didn't have a thumb over the lens or those I could cut the...
NEO: Germany to be a Nuclear Ash Heap
Jim Davis - October 3, 2015
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Fear and Loathing in the Fatherland, A Few of Duff's Germany...
Gordon Duff - The photos are from the Mosel region of Southern Germany, taken in late September, 2015. Two towns are featured, Bernkastel and Trier and with a couple of shots in Koblenz.
Churchill Was a Mass Murderer and Worshipped Mammon
Jonas E. Alexis - September 24, 2015
Winston Churchill was one of the strategic mass murderers in the twentieth century.
Lock and Load: NATO Deploys Fully Armed Eurofighters to Russian Borders
VT Senior Editors - September 20, 2015
For the first time since the inception of the Ukrainian crisis, German Eurofighters are set to patrol the Baltic Airspace with full ammunition.
NEO: ISIS, a Partner America Can Live With
Gordon Duff, Senior Editor - September 15, 2015
Gordon Duff - Very few American attacks have been against ISIS' primary area of operations, nor against ISIS' supply lines or ISIS' transit capabilities, which allow them to move jihadists during daylight over hundreds of miles.
Syria: Germany, France break out of U.S. Alliance against Russia
Suppressed report on EU/Russia move in Syria can be read here.
Germany Needs Migrants as Slaves, Marine Le Pen
Gordon Duff, Senior Editor - September 9, 2015
Marine Le Pen has accused Germany of looking to lower wages and hire "slaves" by opening its doors to thousands of migrants and refugees, British media reported on Sunday.
Hoaxed, Germany Withdraws Patriot Missiles From Turkey
VT Senior Editors - August 15, 2015
There to protect ISIS from Syria
British Fascism: Why British Nobility Hailed Adolf Hitler and Nazi Germany
VT Senior Editors - July 23, 2015
A 17-second video depicting young Queen Elizabeth II performing a Nazi salute has prompted a fierce debate among experts and the public. What other disturbing facts have the Allies swept under the carpet?
Germany, Greece, India and South Africa – TPP Versus BRICS
Both Germany and Royal Dutch Shell have signed deals with Russia
VT Nuclear Education: Germany
Gordon Duff, Senior Editor - June 24, 2015
The truth about Germany's nuclear program...
Germany: You Can go to prison for discussing the Holocaust...
VT Senior Editors - June 13, 2015
Merkel's date?
NEO – May 9th: Russian Victory, NATO Defeat
Jim W. Dean, Managing Editor - May 12, 2015
Jim W. Dean..."This is NEO's Christopher Black's first cross posting on VT, a good piece on the childish Western countries shunning of the Russian WWII ending celebrations."
NEO – Burying The Greatest Victory for Spite
Jim W. Dean, Managing Editor - May 2, 2015
Ulson Gunnar - The monumental sacrifices of the Russian people during World War II are being marginalized
Crime And Punishment – Holocaust vs. Paedophilia
Gilad Atzmon - April 24, 2015
Unlike German elder Oskar Groening who stands trial for being an 'instrument in a mass murder,' whatever that means; Lord Greville Janner is not going to be arrested or charged.
Caught: Germany Bought Israel's Nukes
Jim W. Dean, Managing Editor - April 14, 2015
Jim W. Dean...In standard Intel analysis the question "why now?" is near the top of the list when some major secret from the past is revealed.
German Security Council approves submarine delivery to Israel
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Richard Edmondson - March 31, 2015
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Jim W. Dean, Managing Editor - February 15, 2015
Jim W. Dean..."I just watched a militia video showing Ukie breakout attempts that have been chopped up on the roads. You could hear the shelling in the background."
Lenin, Stalin, and Mao's Willing Executioners
Jonas E. Alexis - October 19, 2014
"What had taken the German nation over two millennia to build, had taken its enemies a mere six years to destroy"
Israel: An Inconceivable Concept
- Israel has now officially entered its final terminal phase. The catastrophic situation has entered into Israeli collective awareness. Israelis are now running for their lives and they have good reason to believe that Europe will soon close its gates to avoid the Hebrew tsunami.
NEO – Will France and Germany challenge NATO?
Jim W. Dean, Managing Editor - September 25, 2014
- "This is a major geopolitical piece on the heart of Europe which is "in play" with the growing West vs. East new Cold War threat."
Veterans Today is expanding to Europe…in force
Jim W. Dean, Managing Editor - September 7, 2014
- "Willy Wimmer has served 33 years in Germany's Bundestag with Angela Merkel's Christian Democratic Union. He goes back to working with Helmut Kohl."
NEO – Cozying Up to the BRIC Wall
Jim W. Dean, Managing Editor - July 27, 2014
- "If Europe and NATO want to foment a conflict with Russia, which we see all of the signs of that happening, no Silk Road is going to be built to Europe."
The Black Madonna and the Swastika
Jack Heart - July 15, 2014
- In 1919, 30,000 enraged WWI veterans stormed Munich, and in viscous street fighting they made short work of a makeshift Red army and its leader.
Crimea Referendum – One Law for All, Only if the West...
- Ferris - Self-determination often does not mean that people had the right to make a decision the winners didn't like. Once again Russia has called the bluff of those with blood on their own hands, which is exactly why the Western backed government is now seeking to hide that blood behind howls of protest and the rhetoric of American politicians. Double standards double the problem, and always have.
He's back again and No Holocaust Denier
Gilad Atzmon - April 1, 2014
A new Hitler Satire Tops Germany's Best-Seller List. Let's hope it won't be long before Germans start, once more, to write great symphonies and the best philosophy ever.
NEO – Ukraine: International Law for the Lawless
Jim W. Dean, Managing Editor - March 23, 2014
- What is happening in Ukraine is not right against wrong, good versus evil, cops versus robbers.
Black Sun Rising Part 4
Jack Heart - March 10, 2014
In 1974 I had seen a family I grew up with slaughtered in their beds while they slept the sleep of the dead. My best friend, even though he was only fifteen years old at the time, was suspected of being the perpetrator, until the drug-addled surviving son confessed.
Germany Threatens War
Michael Shrimpton - February 21, 2014
On his recent visit to meet with that nice chap William Hague in London the 'Jerry' Foreign Minister, Frank-Walter Steinmeier adopted the language and style of his, with respect, rather more intelligent and charming predecessor Joachim von Ribbentrop.
Dark Shadow of Chernobyl Touches Fukushima – It's Time For Action
Allen L Roland, PhD - November 17, 2013
The nuclear power industry is an accident waiting to happen and only populist direct action, as demonstrated in Germany, can free a world that is now being held hostage by the nuclear power global corporate elite.
Dark Shadow of Chernobyl Touches Fukushima – It's Time For Action
Are American Jews incubating another Hitler?
- M I Bhat - The recent headline 'White House urges Jewish leaders not to lobby for new Iran sanctions' - beats every word said and written so far.
Syria Again
Michael Shrimpton - August 23, 2013
It has been a grim and desperate attritional battle, against heavy odds, thanks to poor national leadership. That's enough about the Fifth Test Match the Oval, however. Over to Syria.
Armageddon watch over Syria
Gordon Duff, Senior Editor - August 9, 2013
"Israel, unable to field credible conventional forces, is attempting to destroy the fighting ability of the Syrian Army through attrition, not simply "shock and awe," but nuclear, chemical and even biological weapons."
Why Alex Jones Bashes Nazis
yukonjack - August 2, 2013
Anyone paying attention knows that Alex Jones has an obsession with attacking Adolf Hitler and the Nazis. He does so for one reason and... | {
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THE TOWN OF ROSSIE - ORGANTZED IN 1813.
THIS was the thirteenth town erected by an act of the Legislature passed on the 27th of January, 1813. This territory was formerly under the jurisdiction of the town of Russell, which that town released on a vote of the freeholders assembled for that purpose January 1, 1811, and was to be annexed to the town of Gouverneur, but resulted in the formation of a new town.
The first town meeting was directed to be held at the house of Reuben Streeter, but the day having passed the Legislature appointed another, and the first town election was held at the block house, then the residence of Mr. Streeter. The dates and the presiding officer's name were not preserved. As originally formed, this town embraced townships 1, 2 and 7, or Hammond, Somerville (or Kilkenny) of Tract Number 3. Fowler and Hammond have since been taken off, and the line between Rossie and Hammond was altered February 7, 1844.
The town lies on the western border of the county, south of Hammond, west of Macomb and Gouverneur, with Fowler to the southward and Jefferson county on the west. The surface is level or rolling in the eastern part, but in the western part is much broken by ledges of gneiss, limestone and sandstone. Numerous streams cross the town, and the Oswegatchie crosses it twice, forming the "Ox-Bow." Indian River and Grass Creek flow through the northern and western parts, while the central part is crossed by the Yellow Lake, which is connected with the Oswegatchie by a small stream.
Settlement began in what is now Rossie in 1807, when Joseph Teall, of Fairfield, and Reuben Streeter, of Salisbury, Herkimer county, who had contracted with Lewis R. Morris, nephew of Gouverneur Morris, for a tract of land between the Oswegatchie and the south line of Gouverneur, extending to the county line, came in to occupy their possession. On the 2d of December, 1808, David Parish purchased the town from Gouverneur Morris and J. D. Le Ray. Through Mr. Parish the town was given its name in honor of his sister Rossie, but she usually bore the name of Rosa. The castle in Scotland which was owned by her husband was also called Rossie. The land records show the following purchases under date of December 2, 1806, when the persons named came in and selected lands: Ambrose Simmons, Oliver Maiterner, Amos Keeney, jr., Samuel Bonfy, Silvius Waters, Joshua Stearns, Jerome Waldo, George W. Pike, Benjamin Pike, jr., Ebenezer Bemis and David Shepard; most of these were from Herkimer county and many of them settled in the southern part of the town. The first improvement was made by Reuben Streeter in 1807 on a farm about half a mile east of Wegatchie hamlet. In the next year he built a mill on the Oswegatchie.
Previous to the spring of 1811 the following families had moved in and were living on the tract purchased by Teall and Streeter, besides those already named; David Freeman, James Streeter, Joseph Teall, Diamond Wheeler, Eli Winchell, Simeon Stevens, John and Wheaton Wilcox, and Daniel Wilcox came soon after.
The first school was taught about a mile west of the site of Somerville by a Mr. Maynard.
Other names which appear upon an early assessment roll are as follows, but a part of these lived in what is now Fowler and Hammond: Lemuel Arnold, Jeduthan Baker, James Barnes, Horatio G. Berthrong (the first tavern keeper at Rossie), Samuel B. Brown, Truman Bristol, Joseph Desbrow, James Haile, Samuel Hendrix, Jedediah Kingsley, Alexander Osburne, Ebenezer Parker, Richard Townsend, Joseph Teall, jr., Elias Teall and Alvin Wright.
That part of this town lying between the Indian and the Oswegatchie Rivers has been termed "the Scotch settlement," from the large number of that race who settled there. The settlement was begun in 1818, when ten families came in, as follows: Robert Ormiston, James Dickson, William Fachney, James Fairbairn, Corlan McLaren, Donald McCarrie, Thomas Elliott, James Henderson, James Douglas and Andrew Dodds. These families emigrated from Scotland by way of Quebec and the St. Lawrence River. While going up that river in a Durham boat, and before their destination had been fully decided upon, they met the agent of Mr. Parish (Joseph Roselle), who induced them them to cross to Ogdensburg. Their families were there provided for, while the men went into Rossie to view the country, with the result as stated. Mr. Parish treated them with liberality, causing ten acres to be cleared for each family, built a log house for each, and supplied them with an ox team for each two families, and a cow, provisions, and seed wheat for each, also a fine young dog. It was then just after the historical cold season, and prices were very high, which made this action on Mr. Parish's part doubly generous and helpful to the immigrants. In the following year other families came in, among them the following: James Lockie, David Stone, William Laidlaw, Robert Clark, Andrew Culbcrtson, John Henderson, Andrew Fleming, John Dodds, James Hobkerk, John Wait and James Ormiston. In 1820 John McRobbie, Thomas Turnbull, and brothers Michael, Adam, Andrew and William came in. Elizabeth Fachney, daughter of William, born January 13, 1819, is believed to have been the first white child born in this part of the town.
Descendants of some of the Scotch settlers live in the town and near by, but they are not numerous. Among them are David Stone, who lives in Oswegatchie; A. A. Dickson, grandson of James, who lives on the old homestead; Alexander McLaren, son of the pioneer, living in the "Half-way House," formerly a public house, between Rossie and Ox-Bow.
The War of 1812 had its effects in this town as well as in others, and the law of self preservation prompted the inhabitants to build a block house on the road between Summerville and Wegatchie, and thither the people went to spend the nights in times of apprehension. The block house was 24 by 30 feet, built of hewn timber, bullet proof, and stood till about the year 1840. Rossie also during the war time became a very active place, as it was a great resort for both the timid and the brave. Several families from Ogdensburg and other exposed points went to Rossie to stop during the troubles, or after the siege of Ogdensburg, as they supposed that its retired position would make it compar atively safe from British raids. Here also was the headquarters of a gang of hard characters, who came from various places, even from Canada, who would go over the line into the Canadian settlements, steal horses and bring them back to Rossie, where they had several secret hiding places among the ledges, and on favorable opportunities sell them to the government agents. During their leisure time, or between raids, they loafed around the village, drinking and gambling. These repeated raids caused the Canadian authorities to make an effort to squelch them. Therefore Colonel Frazer, with a company of British soldiers, having a knowledge of their den, came over in the summer of 1813, surrounded the village and captured it without resistance. He placed sentinels at various points, then searched for horse thieves, but only found a few innocent old men, women and children. The next morning he formed his men into line on the street, and called the people together and said to them, that he came there to catch thieves, and he hoped that he had not brought any with him, but said that if any of the Rossie people had lost anything while he and his men were there, that they believed his men had taken, he wanted they should say so, and he would have every man searched before he left. No complaint being made, the squad returned to Kingston. A day or two later a Mrs. Stevens, missing a set of solid silver spoons, sent a man over to Kingston and informed the colonel of the fact, when he instituted a search and found them with a soldier and sent them back to the woman. Mr. Henry Plumb of Ogdensburg was an eye witness of the above incident and related the same and many other similar ones, to the writer. It was also reported that the colonel's horse, which he rode over, was left to graze on the commons, but in the niorning was not found, and had either strayed away or been stolen, and he had to go back on foot. Other incidents of plundering will be noticed in the history of Hammond.
During the summer of 1812, the mill built by Mr. Streeter was burned in the night by an incendiary, who laid it to the Indians. It was rebuilt by Mr. Parish, who owned and operated it until about 1817, when he sold it to James Howard. The grist mill is now carried on by James H, Bolton. W. B. Wheelock was superintendent of all of Mr. Parish's mills and mining operations for a number of years. It was Mr. Howard's wish to have the settlement about his mills called "Caledonia," and that name did to some extent attach to the place; but it was also called "Howard's Mills," "Church's Mills," and finally Wegatchie, which name was applied when the post-office was established in 1849.
A saw mill here is now operated by David Story. George D. Story and James Reed have stores, and the former is postmaster. The woolen mill is carried on by John Wright, succeeding Church & Wright. The hotel is conducted by John Brickley.
The first settlement at the Rossie Iron Works (now Rossie P. 0.) was made by men sent in by Mr. Parish, late in the summer of 1810, to build mills and open settlements. This was an important point, being at the head of navigation of twenty-seven miles towards Fort Stanwix (Rome), and the pioneers found evidences of French or English occupation there. A Durham boat was found sunk with stone in the river, and an excavation, perhaps for a cellar, was on the site of the stone store at Rossie. D. W. Church, who had superintended the building of a stone store at Ogdensburg, took seven men, and his wife to act as cook, and proceeded in a bateau with furniture and tools, to the head of navigation on the Indian River, and landed at sunset on an island near where the foundry was located. There they spent the night and the next day erected a hut near where the saw mill was built, and by winter had a saw mill in operation there. In December the party was broken up. During the winter parties were engaged in getting out timber, which was used in buildings in Ogdensburg and in the frame of the "Genesee packet," which was built soon afterward. In the following summer the lumber business was prosecuted with vigor, and in the succeeding winter the bridge at the foot of the hill was built. In the summer of 1813 a furnace was begun under direction of James Howard, and from that time onward the operations of the town were energetically advanced by Mr. Parish. A road through to Ox-Bow was cut out in 1810 and became a turnpike. The first male child born in the village was William Rossie Williams, born March 31, 1814.
The Rossie Furnace was the first blast furnace built in Northern New York, and was started up in the year 1815. At about the same time what was known as the Caledonia Iron Mine, about a mile and a half east of Somerville, was put in operation. A specimen of ore was sent to Albany, and expectations of a large mining interest to be developed in this town were confidentially entertained. The furnace consisted of two stacks about thirty-two feet square at the base and the same height; only one of them was ever operated. Mr. Parish engaged William Bembo, an Englishman experienced in iron manufacturing, but ignorant of this ore and the fuel to be used, the result was discouragement and failure. At this juncture Mr. Parish offered the eastern firm of Keith, Marvin & Sykes, the free use of his furnace and coal with the best ore on his premises, for three months, if they would give it a trial. The result was eminently satisfactory, good iron was produced, and a large profit realized. For the succeeding three years the furnace was operated by S. Fullers & Co., under a contract for five years; but George Parish, in order to lease for a longer term, bought the contract at the end of three years and leased to Robert R. Burr, of New Jersey. He carried on the business two or three years and left about 1827. The works were then idle for about ten years, when, in May, 1837, Mr. Parish again took up the business. A new and larger stack was built, which was replaced in 1844 by a still larger one, capable of making eleven tons per day. The last blast in this furnace ended October 14, 1867.
Meanwhile, iron mines situated a mile and a quarter east of Somerville were opened in the fall of 1812 and continued many years for the supply of the above described furnace. From one to three dollars per ton was paid for drawing the ore thirteen miles to the furnace, making a sourse of income from which many settlers paid for their farms. The work was mostly done in the winter. The Caledonia Mine, a part of the Parish estate, was estimated to have supplied one hundred thousand tons of ore down to 1852. In 1865 the mines were purchased by a New York company and placed under supervision of Charles R. Westbrook. Extensive improvement was made, improved machinery put in, buildings erected, and a track connencting the ore bed with the railroad was laid. The supply of iron ore was apparently inexhaustible and the quality of the product was good, but unforeseen causes too powerful to be overcome caused the final abandonment of the business about 1877. Chief among these causes was the enormous and cheap production of iron in other localities with the scarcity of fuel here.
Another mining interest, which at one period promised very important results, was the discovery and production of lead. It is a tradition brought down from the time of Indian occupation, that the red men knew of the existence of lead in this section and made use of it. It is said that Arthur Bacon was one of the very first to discover galena in the earth at the roots of an overturned tree in this town. What was called the Victoria vein was afterwards discovered by a daughter of Joseph Jepson. In December, 1835, Mr. Parish had become convinced that the industry might be made a profitable one, and he contracted with B. T. Nash to make a search for ore. Fifty cents a ton was to be paid the latter for iron ore and seventy-five cents for lead ore, should he discover any mines, all the lead ore to be worked in Rossie. The lease was to run ten years. Previous to this time a company, consisting of B. T. Nash, Joseph Barber, Zadoc Day, Joseph Disbrow, and another, for the purpose of mineral explorations, and the Indian traditions, led them to the Rossie district. Mr. Nash soon after sold the rights to J. C. Bush Two companies were incorporated May 12, 1837, after compromising with Nash's associates and others, for working the mines. The charters of the two companies were substantially alike as to their terms, and were to continue to January 1, 1847; capital of each, $24,000. The company holding the eastern division of the "coal hill" vein was styled the "Rossie Lead Mining Company," and David C. Judson, James Averill, Erastus Vilas, Peter C. Oakley, and Royal Vilas were its first directors. The western division of the same vein was held by the "Rossie Galena Company," of which John C. Bush, Bliss T. Nash, Elias J. Drake, Sylvester Gilbert, and David C. Judson were the first directors.
Work was begun on the western section in 1836, but systematic operations were not commenced until January 1, 1837, when the eastern company also began operations. A large number of laborers was employed, and the business seemed to prosper for a considerable time, notwithstanding the inexperience of those engaged and the great expenditure for smelting houses and machinery, which were later found to be insufficient. Large dividends were made by the companies and the stock commanded high prices. The ore was principally smelted by Moss & Knapp. at a furnace on Indian River, about a mile from the mines, at twenty-five dollars per ton, with a contract giving them all over sixty-eight per cent. A reverberatory furnace was built at the mines, but this was found wasteful. The Victoria and Union veins were worked a short time by Mr. Parish. A "working" was begun by him on the Robinson, or Indian River, vein, where ore was found upon the surface, and about 300 pounds of lead were taken out directly over a cavity in the granite which, upon blasting to the solid vein, proved to be fifteen feet in depth. A shaft was sunk to the depth of seventy-six feet, which yielded 1,100 pounds of lead; cost, $1,600. In the branch of the Union vein two shafts were sunk, the western fifty-five and the eastern fifty-three feet in depth.
The product of the mines was in all 3,250,690 pounds or 1,625 tons of metallic lead, the average yield of the ore being sixty. seven per cent. Both of the companies discontinued work about 1840, and many persons lost largely by deterioration of the stock. During the summer of 1852, these mines having reverted to Mr. Parish, a portion of the property was leased by R. P. Remington, for ten years, with the privilege of another ten years, with one-twelfth royalty, and a company styled "The Great Northern Lead Company" was incorporated September 8, 1852, with a capital of $500,000. The first directors were James C. Forsyth, Ernest Tielder, P. Strachan, John F. Sanford, S. T. Jones, Silas M. Stilwell, Charles G. Myers, R. P. Remington, and James G. Hopkins. A powerful engine was put in, a number cf practical miners from Cornwall, England, were imported, and work was quite extensively prosecuted for about three years. It was then discontinued, being unable to pay the royalty agreed to Mr. Parish. In 1854 the works were leased by J. B. Morgan and were again operated until 1868, since which time they have remained entirely idle.
The foregoing description of the extensive mining operations in the town comprise a large portion of its general history. Compared with the somewhat remarkable activity during the long period in which those industries were prosecuted, the affairs of the town since the War of the Reb~lhion (for particulars see Chapter XV.) have moved peacefully along. The agricultural interests have been more successfully and progressively pursued, the attention of the farmers now being largely devoted to dairying. Cheese is the principal product, which has an excellent reputation, and considerable butter of good quality is produced.
Many incidents occurred during the earlier working of the mines that well-nigh resulted in bloodshed,. which were peculiarly common in those days in such a mixed population of nationalities. Such as suspending by the neck an effigy in Irish costume before a boarding-house occupied by laborers on St. Patrick's day with insulting mottos attached to it. This was done by thoughtless chaps merely as a joke on a certain class. This, however, was not approved of by the better class of citizens.
Following is a list of the supervisors of the town from its formation to the present time with the years of their service.
1814, Reuben Streeter; 1815, Theodosius O. Fowler; 1816-1818, Reuben Streeter; 1822-24,Louis Franklin; 1825, Eljenezer Martin; 1826-1827, James Howard; 1828, William Brown ; 1820, Reuben Streeter; 1830-32, S. Pratt; 1833-34, William Skinner; 1835, S. Pratt; 1836-38, Robert Clark; 1839-40, Martin Thatcher; 1843-44, William B. Bostwick; 1845-46, S. Pratt; 1847-48, H. V. R. Wilmont; 1849, Zacheus Gates; 1850, Adam Turnbull; 1851-52, Zachens Gates; 1853-4, Solomon S. Pratt; 1855, R. R. Shorman; 1856-57, L. W. Baldwin , 1858, William B. Bostwick. 1859-63, James H. Church; 1864-66, Thomas A. Turnbull; 1867-69, David McFalls; 1870-74, Thomas A. Turnbull; 1875-77, A. E. Helmer; 1878, T. A. Turnbull; 1879-80, A. E. Helmer; 1881-83, George MeLear; 1884-1886, A. E. Helmer; 1887-88, John Barry; 1889, D. W. Church; 1890-1894, James W. Marshall.
Rossie Village.- This village is situated at the head of navigation on Indian River, where there is a good water power. The early settlements here have been fully described. Mr. Parish built the mills here at an early day, which were operated by him in connection with his other large industries. The grist mill is now operated by Robert Melrose, and the saw-mill by W. W. Leonard. Here also the Rossie Iron Company built a furnace and a machine shop and a foundry, none of which are now in operation. A freshet in April, 1892, carried away the dam, wheelhouse, etc., but a new one has been built, supplying power for the saw-mill and grist mill. Among the various persons who have done business at this point may be mentioned W. W. Leonard, W. W. Butterfield, George Backus, William A. Paul, Gates & Laidlaw, and Hiram Polley. At the present time W. W. Leonard and Alexander Brown sell dry goods and groceries; C. W. Ormiston and Miss Rose Gillen sell groceries, and the latter is postmistress. There are two hotels, the Rossie House, owned by George McLear and conducted by L. D. Ladd, and the Laidlaw House, by J. Laidlaw.
Somerville.- T his little village is situated in the southern part of the town, on the road between Antwerp and Gouverneur. It took its name from the township as given by Surveyor-General Dewitt long before its settlement. There has never been much business carried on here, there being no natural facilities for it. There has been a small mercantile business here for many years, in which have been engaged Solomon Pratt, Lucius Draper, M. G. Wait, C. D. Gilbert, Wallace Foster, and J. B. Johnson. At the present time John Rickley carries on a store and is postmaster. A hotel is kept by William Becker, and a cheese factory by J. W. Marshall Hiram Hall and Orin Freeman formerly rnanufactured furniture. P. M. Crowley made carriages and still does a small business in that line.
What was formerly called "Sprague's Corners," the post-office name now being Spragueville, is a small village situated in the extreme southern end of this town, near Keene's station on the R. W. & 0. Railroad. A part of the village, including the two churches (Methodist and Baptist), is within the bounds of Jefferson county. D. W. Sprague carries on a store here and is postmaster, and A. H. Johnson and Steele & Co. also have stores.
A Universalist church was organized at Somerville, August 20, 1842, with Lyman Merriman, Alva Weeks, and William Ayers, trustees. In 1846 they erected a house of worship at a cost of $1,500. The first pastor was Rev. C. C. Swan. For many years past there has been only occasional services.
The Methodist Episcopal church at Somerville was incorporated December 16, 1845, with Hiram Hall, Orin Freeman, John Johnson, Freedom Freeman, Augustus Preston, and A. C. Van Dyke, trustees. In 1846 they erected a house of worship costing $1,500, which is still in use. The present pastor is Rev. Mr. Warren.
St. Patrick's church (Catholic) was organized in 1852 at Rossie with about twenty-five families, and in the same year the society erected a building costing $2,000. The first rector was Father Michael Clark. A new church was erected about six years ago, and the membership is now about 150. Father Michael O'Neill is in charge of the soci e ty.
The first Presbyterian church of Rossie village was organized with eighteen members in October, 1855. In the next year the church was built at a cost of $1,600. It is still in use and the membership is seventy-five. Rev. W. A. Fisher is pastor.
The Methodist church at the village was organized in 1868 with seventeen members by Rev. Lemuel Clark. The first pastor was Rev. O. F. Nichols. | {
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On this day last year members of the third Viva Palestina overland convoy arrived in Gaza after a month of travelling from London. Their arrival would have been much earlier had it not been for major obstacles posed by the Egyptian authorities. They were barred from entering Egypt via the Red Sea causing the convoy of about 500 people to be stranded in Aqaba, Jordan for five days. They were then forced to detour for more than 500 miles to Latakia, Syria where there were more delays before they could sail via the Mediterranean Sea.
When the convoy finally arrived at the port town of Al-Arish in Egypt, they were quarantined for hours in the airport and had their passports confiscated. Later they were put under house arrest in various hostels in town before they were taken to the port where their vehicles were quarantined—only to be locked up within the port gates for a couple more days. As Egyptian officials negotiated with convoy leaders on which vehicles were allowed to enter Gaza, a major scuffle broke out between convoy members and the Egyptian riot police. Bloodshed and bruises later Egyptian police escorted the convoy to the Rafah border where they crossed into Gaza and were finally "free". Egypt had only allowed the convoy 48 hours in Gaza before they would close the border and continue to keep it under siege.
But convoy members only stayed for about 30 hours following overnight Israeli air raids. When they crossed back into Egypt they were transported directly to the Cairo International Airport where every single convoy member was deported back to their home countries. Unlike members of the Freedom Flotilla who were attacked by the Israeli navy in international waters, the challenges faced by this convoy—delays, detours and detentions—were imposed by an Israeli proxy: Egypt. And while the global movement for a free Palestine prefers to keep the spotlight focused on Israel in their narrative, the fact is Israel's continued occupation of Palestine is aided even by its traditional "foes", namely member states of the Arab League and the Organisation of the Islamic Conference (OIC).
How so? In the case of Egypt it is straightforward. Egypt openly supports Israel's siege on Gaza by keeping its Rafah border mostly closed and by constructing the controversial steel wall to prevent access of goods into Gaza via underground tunnels. The result is manifold: About 1.5 million people (half of whom are children) are trapped in Gaza, supply of basic goods and medical aid are cut off from a population of which 80 percent is dependent on food aid, inflation rises and Gazans are forced to do business with Israel using —and empowering—the Israeli shekel.
The same can be said about business with members of the Arab League. Though the League maintains a Central Boycott Office member states have generally abandoned the three-tiered boycott they declared following the 1948 Arab-Israeli war. Today, against the spirit of their declaration prohibiting individuals, businesses and organisations in member states from engaging in business with any entity that does business in Israel, Starbucks can even sit at the heart of the holy city of Makkah. But while passionate Muslims around the world are ever ready to burn the flag of Israel in public rallies, they are not prepared to take the same stand against Israel's Arab and Muslim partners who keep the occupying state economically secure. | {
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Home›housing›14 vacant buildings coming down in downtown Gary to make way for potential
14 vacant buildings coming down in downtown Gary to make way for potential
"I anticipated and was told by the city of Gary that some of these buildings were scheduled to come down," she said. "Artists were aware that some of their murals would be ephemeral and temporary. Paint Gary has two programming components: to create murals with a longer impact and permanence and taking blighted properties and beautify them in the interim."
She hoped that over the past few years the public art got people to appreciate the city's historic architecture and storied past.
"It's always sad to see buildings come down, but from what I understand, the demolitions are part of a new renaissance. It is a tragedy that Gary has lost so many buildings and structures. Since the launch of Paint Gary in 2018, the Gary Public Schools Memorial Auditorium erected in 1927 and the 110-year-old Water Tower are no longer standing," she said.
"What I've tried to focus attention on are areas to be saved or highlighted. For example, two Paint Gary bookend murals by artists Nicolas Escalada and Erik Burke shine a light on the Edison houses, which are threatened by a similar future. These structures represent great historical and architectural significance."
As the wrecking ball makes way for the promise of progress and a fresh start, Pacheco hopes there's still space for public art in the city.
"Through the generous goodwill and creative contributions Paint Gary has generated a lot of attention for the city of Gary," she said. "It is my opinion that our city should welcome and embrace the diversity of aesthetics and artists wanting to be helpful in taking part in this urban renaissance or city renewal. I'm incredibly thankful to each artist for their creative contribution and support of the Paint Gary project since its launch in 2018."
Read More: 14 vacant buildings coming down in downtown Gary to make way for potential
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Houzz predicts a decline in open kitchens, Christian Siriano is coming for the | {
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Last month at Story Exploratory I shared a story about getting to have coffee with my high school English teacher. It was pretty awesome. Maybe you have a teacher who inspired and encouraged you. Inspired 2 Educate is inviting teachers to share a story about someone who inspired you to become an educator. For more information click on this link or the image below.
Can I tell you a quick story!? We are still listening to and loving Ramona the Pest. We went to see the Chicago Fire play on Saturday and Peanut turned to me just before the national anthem and said, "Here comes the song about the dawnzer." (Ramona gets confused and thinks the dawnzer lee light is some kind of lamp, remember?) It was so Nerdy Book club and I loved it!
I'm still reading Tonight The Streets Are Ours by Leila Sales and listening to Echo by Pam Muñoz Ryan.
I'm excited to continue listening to Ramona the Pest and Echo and to reading Tonight The Streets Are Ours. This is our last week of school...so it'll be a little bit hectic until Wednesday and then I hope to really have time to read! | {
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Recently the PAP held their first Party convention post election allowing us to scrutinise the cadre system and the iron grip on power that it provides for. AlexAuwrote about it in his blog (http://yawningbread.wordpress.com/2011/12/03/four-barriers-to-remaking-the-pap/) where he highlighted his opinion that the cadre system is one of four main reasons why the PAP would fail to learn any lessons from their setback in GE 2011. The rest of his reasons would be worthy of discussion in a separate article in their own right. However as we look back at 2011 I will concern myself with a closer look at the cadre system and how it affects your ricebowl.
It is of course not only the PAP who employs the cadre system. For the benefit of those who may be unfamiliar with the term, a cadre system is one in which the leadership of the Party selects certain members to be cadres. The cadres are then the only members who have voting rights and they elect the leadership. It is of course a completely closed system in which the leadership ensures its position by only selecting as cadres people who will be loyal to them. The cadre vote the leaders who select the cadre who vote the leaders who select ………………..and so on.
In her 1971 political science thesis, "Singapore's People's Action Party: Its History, Organisation and Leadership (Oxford University Press)", Ms Pang Cheng Lian, who sits on the board of Temasek Cares, describes elections to the CEC by the cadres as a "closed system", in which "the cardinals appoint the pope and the pope appoints the cardinals". Most of us Singaporeans know this system is employed by the men in white. Sadly, as far as I am aware, every other political party in Singapore employs a variant of the cadre system. This includes the Workers Party, the SDP, the NSP and the SPP. I have no information about the other new parties, the Justice Party the USD (does anyone remember them? ) and the new parties still to come in 2012 but I believe it is safe to assume they all employ or will employ the same system.
Just as Alex believes the cadre system may explain why the PAP is incapable of learning new lessons so I believe that adherence to the cadre system may be partly responsible for the agonisingly slow progress of the Opposition parties and the dearth of new ideas or renewal. It is certainly the culprit behind the endemic Party hopping which discredits all Opposition equally and has nothing to do with renewal of ideas. Party hopping is the same old faces, with the same old ideas but with new titles. It would take a visionary to develop a party with a radically different structure. Or maybe a democracy veteran with no time left to lose who, looking back on his life's work, realised that closed organisations can't give birth to Open Societies. Yes, The Reform Party is the only political party in Singapore which is a democracy since it alone does not have a cadre system to protect the leadership and all members have voting rights.
The cadre system has its origins in the Marxist concept of the "dictatorship of the proletariat" and the "vanguard". This meant that only a small elite group of individuals were fit to lead the Communist Party and the nation. The masses were not ready for democracy and it was better that they be led by those who knew best. The Communist ideal was one of eventual full democracy once the masses had been educated enough. Leninargued (Wikipedia, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vanguardism) the ideal vanguard party would be one where membership was completely open and its workings transparent, the "entire political arena is as open to the public view as is a theatre stage to the audience" (from What is to be Done?). He seems to be acknowledging the benefits of competition though cannot speak its name when he goes on to say that a party that supposedly implemented democracy to such an extent that "the general control (in the literal sense of the term) exercised over every act of a party man in the political field brings into existence an automatically operating mechanism which produces what in biology is called the "survival of the fittest"." This party would be completely open to the public eye as it conducted its business which would mainly consist of educating the proletariat to remove the false consciousness that had been instilled in them.
The cadre system went on to be adopted by both the Kuomintang and the Chinese Communist Party and by many other Maoist revolutionary parties throughout the world. Lenin originally intended it to deal with the problems of controlling and maintaining the secrecy of the Bolshevik party which was seeking to overthrow the Czarist regime in Russia, in the face of infiltration by the Okhrana, the Czar's secret police. Ironically the goal of preventing infiltration, this time by Communist agents, is the oft-cited justification given by the PAP leadership as to why the cadre system was introduced. If so it does not justify its retention today when there is no longer a Communist threat. Even if there were the ideal way of combating it would surely be through more democracy not less.
Of course the Communist roots of the PAP are not a secret. This is why the arbitrary arrest and detention of certain individuals on the grounds that they were Marxists and that they represented a secretive organisation is particularly ironic.
The fact that the PAP continue to maintain a cadre system shows how out-of-step they are with modern democratic parties and how little understanding they have of the benefits of competition and transparency and accountability. While they maintain a closed system which ensures that only people, who hold the leadership's views, whether out of principle or self-interest, get to vote, it is difficult to see how any renewal can take place. Perhaps it is too much to expect the ordinary people of Singapore to understand the need for multi-million dollar salaries for ministers. They are afflicted with the false consciousness of a belief in democratic values and the equality of individuals. You need elite (the cadres) who are sufficiently intelligent not to fall prey to false consciousness to understand why servant leaders need millions of dollars as remuneration. Hopefully the review board will be able to explain it to us shortly.
However the other parties inSingaporeclearly feel the same way as the PAP that democracy is a dangerous idea and power should not be entrusted to the ordinary members. Or they merely aspire to be the PAP and adhere slavishly to their ideas and methods-PAP LITE, if you will. Whatever the motivation, all of them maintain some sort of cadre system. The argument often given for the necessity of this is that it leads to "stability". This is just another facet of the argument that democracy leads to gridlock and that the people are too short-sighted or stupid to exercise power responsibly. Even if a so-called extreme faction managed to be elected to the leadership, like the AWARE situation, ultimately democracy ensures competition. If the new leadership fails to reflect the will of its members or is unsuccessful at winning electoral office then it can be replaced.
It is genuinely worrying that so much of the Opposition shares the same mindset as the PAP. This begs the question as to whether their leadership are genuinely interested in change or representation or whether it is merely power that they seek.
To recap on what I said earlier, the only party that does not have a cadre system is the Reform Party. The RP is thus the only genuinely democratic party. Instead of a closed system, the RP CEC is elected by the Party Conference which is made up of delegates. Everyone, provided they fulfil basic criterion, gets a vote. As a result the Party is the purest expression of the will of its members. The Party Conference promotes a free market in ideas as any member can put forward a motion. As it forces anyone running for office to be responsive to the views of the members, it represents the implementation at the Party level of the principles we are fighting for at the national level. We refer to this as Conference being Sovereign. It is clear that when JBJ set up the RP he wanted to have nothing to do with secretive cabals and backroom deals and start a party that would exemplify the virtues of democracy. He learnt from bitter experience, when he was ousted as SG of the WP, how dangerous an unrepresentative clique is. In a way a genuinely democratic party was his legacy to the nation and serves as a model of what we need to see at the national level.
Many are scared away from joining the RP because of the lack of a cadre system which they feel makes it inherently unstable. Certainly its first three years have not been an easy ride. But if democracy itself is something we seek and value then a truly democratic Party is a necessity. As the RP is not a good long term bet for ironclad power, it is less attractive as an option to those who are power hungry or egotists. Why go to all that trouble to infiltrate a party to make it less radical, less viable as an agent of change, when you may be voted out in 2 years time and the Party may simply revert to its former state? This is what we saw happen with Aware. A group of women cleverly saw that getting like minded members in the organisation in sufficient numbers was key to changing its identity. But ultimately Aware was strong enough and its original ideology and had been in existence long enough to shake off that challenge.
No doubt many initially joined RP in error not clearly realising the ramifications of the democratic nature of the constitution. What a shock it must have been to them to realise that Conference is Sovereign and yes, they would actually need to get a majority vote from ordinary members to change the constitution and bring in a cadre system. How much easier it was to simply do a deal for power and leadership elsewhere in exchange for sabotage. And how much more effective to do it in collaboration with the State media, ever hungry as they are for dirt.
But here is the surprising thing. RP as an organisation , as Aware did before them, similarly survived with its democratic nature intact and went on to field 11 candidates in GE 2011. So maybe democracy is not the greatest weakness of a political party but its greatest strength in the long term. Certainly many commentators like Alex are now seeing the cadre system as responsible for hampering progress within the PAP and its greatest obstacle going forward.
What next in 2012? Well the PAP cadres have concluded their convention and business goes on as usual within their closed circles. There has been a lot of talk of Opposition parties joining forces in a grand coalition as well as of new parties being set up. However the important question for voters should be whether any of the parties are genuinely democratic. I would not wish the RP to merge with another party for example, unless that party were also to adopt a democratic constitution and abandon the cadre system. My fervent wish for 2012 is that any new party set up will be Democratic and that through openness and with competition fostering progress we will go forwards as a Nation and not backwards. We need to change the old Singapore/PAP influenced Model so that we can have a better future. As always I am daring to imagine a new rice bowl for an advanced Asian nation.
Pingback: Who rules Singapore? Who rules Singapore? Who Rules Singapore? The only true mercantile state in the world | OSEAFAS [ One Southeast Asia Faith and Studies ]
Peter Kriz says:
Probably the most fascinating economic mechanism I came across in my seven plus years on the little red dot. | {
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Home Countries Final Test in the balance heading into day 4
Final Test in the balance heading into day 4
Sri Lanka need another 63 runs to win the third and final Test against the West Indies in Barbados but only have five wickets remaining going into the fourth day.
The tourists were 81/5 at stumps of the day-night Test after 20 wickets fell in one day as the game continued to see-saw in Bridgetown.
The day started with Sri Lanka resuming on 99/5, in reply to the home team's first innings total of 204, but the visitors were skittled out for 154 as the Windies took a lead of 50.
Windies skipper Jason Holder was the pick of the bowlers with 4-19 in 16 overs.
The hosts though were deep in the mire in their second dig at the crease as they slipped to an incredible 14-5 in the eight over.
Sri Lanka's pace attack of captain Suranga Lakmal, Lahiru Kumara and Kasun Rajitha creating carnage in Barbados.
West Indies recovered somewhat to be bowled out for 93 as Sri Lanka needed a target of 144 to salvage a draw in the series.
Holder though again led from the front for his team as he snaffled four wickets late in the day as the visitors ended the day on 81/5 in the run-chase.
Sri Lanka's hopes will rest heavily on Kusal Mendis, who is 25 not out, and Dilruwan Perera who is with him at the crease on 1.
Sri Lanka tour to West Indies sri-lanka west-indies
England dominate day one of Sri Lanka Test after brilliant Stuart Broad start
Broad's early scalps set the tone for a day England ended just eight runs behind their opponents with eight first-innings wickets intact.
Boucher says its time for Proteas to get back to Pakistan
Mark Boucher will direct the Proteas on their first tour of Pakistan since 2007 which gets underway later this month.
Stuart Broad and Dom Bess run through lacklustre Sri Lanka on day one
The hosts made just 135 after winning the toss and electing to bat.
England make early inroads as Stuart Broad strikes
Sri Lanka slipped to 65 for three on the first morning after opting to bat in Galle.
Jos Buttler: I felt anxious and out of place at start of international career
Buttler admits to feeling daunted at being in close proximity to established stars.
Jacques Kallis admits to warming to the idea of helping arch enemy England
The South African is the third-highest run-scorer in the history of Test cricket.
Graham Onions admits coaching chance is a huge relief after premature retirement
A back issue sustained on the eve of the Bob Willis Trophy led to the 38-year-old announcing his retirement.
England fan who waited in Sri Lanka for 10 months excited for cricket to begin
Rob Lewis, who has been in Sri Lanka since March, does not know how he will watch the game, but has been offered a Zoom call with Joe Root. | {
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Showing posts with label ONO. Show all posts
ONO Soars To The Top Of The Billboard Hot Dance Club Play Chart
ONO Soars To The Top Of The Billboard Hot Dance Club Play Chart With Her 10th #1 Chart-Topping Single "Hold Me" Featuring Dave Audé
With Mixes By EDM A- Listers Audé, Ralphi Rosario, R3HAB, Papercha$er, Dirty Loud, Emjae, Rich Morel, Ivan Gomez & Nacho Chapado, and Tommie Sunshine
Click Here To Watch "Hold Me" (Dave Audé Original Album Mix) Video
Twisted Records Website
Twisted Records Myspace
ONO Website
ONO Soundcloud
ONO Twitter
Imagine Peace Website
ONO, once again, soars to the zenith of the Billboard Hot Dance Club Play Chart with her #1 single "HOLD ME" (Issue date: 04/20/2013), atop a chart featuring releases from contemporary pop, dance, and alternative music heavyweights like DEPECHE MODE, TEGAN AND SARA, CHRISTINA AGUILERA, AFROJACK & CHRIS BROWN, CALVIN HARRIS & ELLIE GOULDING, and JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE.
The vibrant single sheds a new light on ONO and adds a striking new dimension to her illustrious career. While her previous club hits have been star-studded reworkings of her classic material, "HOLD ME" is an entirely new song co-written by ONO and EDM A-lister DAVE AUDÉ, whose discography includes remixes for U2, Madonna, Lady Gaga, and Coldplay.
Featuring adrenalin-fueled remixes from Grammy Award-winning producer RALPHI ROSARIO, premiere Dutch DJ/producer R3HAB, sweltering progressive house collective PAPERCHA$ER, Spain's IVAN GOMEZ & NACHO CHAPADO, Brazilian electro house/dubstep duo DIRTY LOUD, versatile alt-rock meets dance artist/producer and remixer RICH MOREL, electro nu-rave legend TOMMIE SUNSHINE, Boston-based wunderkind EMJAE, and AUDÉ himself, the release marks a milestone for ONO, who celebrates her 10th #1 BILLBOARD HOT DANCE CLUB PLAY chart-topping smash.
It's the latest offering from the enduring pop culture icon 's ambitious remix series campaign, which has seen the boundless art-rock visionary opening up her vast catalog of original works for an eager generation of cutting-edge, contemporary artists to cleverly reinvent, including: PET SHOP BOYS, FLAMING LIPS, BASEMENT JAXX, DANNY TENAGLIA, PENGUIN PRISON, JUAN MACLEAN, FELIX DA HOUSECAT, PEACHES, ANTONY (of ANTONY AND THE JOHNSONS), SPARKS, CSS, HANK SHOCKLEE, CAT POWER, JUNIOR BOYS, BIMBO JONES, and THE POLYPHONIC SPREE.
To date, the groundbreaking series has spawned 2 critically-acclaimed remix albums –YES, I'M A WITCH and OPEN YOUR BOX, and an impressive 10 #1 dance singles including "HOLD ME", "TALKING TO THE UNIVERSE", "MOVE ON FAST", "WOULDNIT' (I'M A STAR)", "GIVE ME SOMETHING", "I'M NOT GETTING ENOUGH", "GIVE PEACE A CHANCE", "NO NO NO", "EVERYMAN / EVERYWOMAN" and ONO's definitive anthem "WALKING ON THIN ICE".
"HOLD ME" is available as digital green releases (no materials used or abused) on MIND TRAIN / TWISTED Records on iTunes and at all fine digital retailers.
Posted by Bonnie Kenaz-Mara at 11:35 AM No comments:
Labels: Hold Me, ONO | {
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Bedroom light at night might cause women weight gain
Too much light in your bedroom can make you gain weight.
Women, beware: Sleeping with a light on or the TV going in your bedroom could make you put on weight.
That's the finding of new research published in JAMA Internal Medicine. While the study doesn't prove that sleeping with a light on causes weight gain, it suggests the two may be linked, the researchers said.
Exposure to artificial light
"Turning off the light while sleeping may be a useful tool for reducing a possibility of weight gain and becoming overweight or obese," said lead author Dr Yong-Moon Mark Park. He is a postdoctoral fellow at the US National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina.
Park said that exposure to artificial light at night may suppress the sleep hormone melatonin and disrupt the natural sleep-wake cycle.
"It also may disturb day-to-day variations of stress hormones and affect other metabolic processes in ways that contribute to weight gain," Park added.
Keeping a light on might also result in poorer sleep. Shorter sleep could prompt you to exercise less and eat more, he noted.
For the study, Park's team relied on self-reported data from nearly 44 000 women, aged 35 to 74. They weren't shift workers, daytime sleepers or pregnant when the study began.
Women who slept with a light on were 17% more likely to gain around 5kg or more over five years, the study found. And the level of artificial light seemed to matter, Park said.
Findings not directly related
"For example, using a small nightlight was not associated with weight gain, whereas women who slept with a light or television on were," he explained.
The findings didn't change when researchers accounted for women's diet and physical activity, which suggests that light during sleep may be important in weight gain and obesity.
Dr David Katz, director of the Yale-Griffin Prevention Research Center in New Haven, Connecticut, reviewed the findings. He said the link between exposure to artificial light at night and obesity may not indicate that one causes the other.
"As with any study of association, two findings are true – true, but not directly related," he said.
The key takeaway relates to poor sleep, Katz suggested.
"Sleep deficiency and impairment is a known obesity risk factor, for reasons ranging from mood and reduced restraint, to changes in hormonal balance," he said.
It's also possible that reliance on artificial light at night and obesity are both linked to other factors, such as "loneliness, anxiety or some form of social insecurity", Katz said.
4 things dietitians do that you didn't realise
Earlier bedtimes help kids fight obesity
How cutting teens' screen time in the evening can improve their sleep in just one week
fitnesssleepexerciseweight gaindiet and nutritionhealth | {
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Princess Beatrice Reveals Baby Daughter's Name With New Photo
October 1, 2021 October 1, 2021 EArsova 0 Comments Princess Beatrice
13 days after welcoming their first baby, Princess Beatrice and Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi have announced the name of their daughter. They have named her Sienna Elizabeth Mapelli Mozzi.
Princess Beatrice made the announcement by sharing a sweet photo of Sienna's footprints on Twitter. She wrote: "We are delighted to share that we have named our daughter Sienna Elizabeth Mapelli Mozzi. We are all doing well and Wolfie is the best big brother to Sienna."
Her husband Edoardo added on Instagram: "Sienna Elizabeth Mapelli Mozzi. Our life together has just begun, and I can't wait to see all the amazing things that await us. Feeling so much love and gratitude for my amazing wife, baby Sienna and Wolfie.
👣 We are delighted to share that we have named our daughter Sienna Elizabeth Mapelli Mozzi.
We are all doing well and Wolfie is the best big brother to Sienna. pic.twitter.com/6abMIXDSLT
— Princess Beatrice of York (@yorkiebea) October 1, 2021
"These are the days I never want to forget. This week, a friend said to me the sweetest saying….that with every child you grow a whole new heart. A massive thank you to the Midwife and the amazing team at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital."
Princess Beatrice gave birth to her first baby with husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi on September 18.
In a statement announcing the royal birth's birth, Buckingham Palace said: "Her Royal Highness Princess Beatrice and Mr Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi are delighted to announce the safe arrival of their daughter on Saturday 18th September 2021, at 23.42, at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London. The baby weighs 6 pounds and 2 ounces.
"The new baby's grandparents and great-grandparents have all been informed and are delighted with the news. The family would like to thank all the staff at the hospital for their wonderful care.
"Her Royal Highness and her child are both doing well, and the couple is looking forward to introducing their daughter to her big brother Christopher Woolf."
Baby Sienna will be given the Italian title of Nobile Donna, which translates to Noble Woman. Edoardo,whose official title is Count, is from a family that was part of the Italian nobility before the country became a republic in 1946.
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The Umbra HandiSleeve is not always available on Amazon, but there is a similar product called the RSVP Java Mitt that you may find does the job. The handle is a bit smaller, but the style of it is really nice. To see other mug sleeve options w/handles click here.
Easy to use coffee cup sleeve with handle.
If you're like many people, a cup of coffee in the morning is the perfect solution to get your mind and body ready for a long day at work. If you have to commute to work by car, though, grabbing a mug of coffee on the way out the door can lead to skin burns and stains on your clothes.
Traditional coffee mugs do not feature closed tops or insulated materials to keep your coffee hot and your hands cool.
Drinking a mug of coffee while driving can also increase your risk of having a traffic accident, since your attention is focused on not spilling coffee on your lap, dashboard or car upholstery.
A coffee cup sleeve with handle can provide a great alternative to open mugs.
An Umbra HandiSleeve cup holder allows you to enjoy your morning coffee without worrying about burns, spills, and stained clothing. This coffee cup sleeve with handle fits most paper coffee cups, making them versatile enough to handle cups from gourmet coffee shops and convenience stores alike. Most cups that hold between 12 and 20 ounces of liquid will fit in this sleeve.
The sleeve and handle are made form insulated materials to prevent you from burning your fingers while you are driving. The insulated sleeve also fits snugly in most vehicle cup holders, (check your vehicle to be sure the handle won't get in the way) so you can put your coffee cup down without worry if you need to have both hands on the wheel.
The insulated rubber coating of this coffee cup sleeve with handle not only prevents burns; it also provides a non-slip gripping surface to keep you from dropping your cup while driving. Compare this to paper cup sleeves, which can slip off as you pick up or set down your coffee cup.
The Umbra HandiSleeve cup holder is hand-washable, so you can use it over and over again. Mild dish detergent and warm water are sufficient to clean spilled coffee from this insulated sleeve.
This cup sleeve is less expensive than many travel mugs, so you won't have to spend a small fortune to safely enjoy your morning coffee. Also, if you need to grab your coffee on the go, you won't have to risk burns that can occur when you pour coffee from a paper cup to a travel cup.
One possible drawback of the Umbra HandiSleeve is that, like most flexible items, warping may occur if you place this sleeve in an automatic dishwasher. To avoid damaging the sleeve and handle, always wash this item by hand.
Also, the weight of the handle may cause the cup to tip over when it is empty. Hold the handle firmly with one hand before refilling your coffee cup to prevent it from tipping over.
See more mug sleeve options w/handles here. | {
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Due to its broad and well established industry base combined with the overall stability of the region's economy, Central Queensland offers a multitude of investment opportunities. From a traditional perspective in established industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, property development, retail and transport through to enterprising and innovative solutions to satisfy national and global demands in key developing sectors such as health services, communications, agri-business, warehousing, entrepreneurial and professional services, education and tourism.
The Rockhampton Region is one of only two regions in Queensland and one of 10 in Australia, to be gazetted as an "Innovation Region" for investment priority by the Australian Government.
The Region has a culture of collaboration and connectivity for innovation, and new technologies are trialled in the region by organisations such as Ergon Energy and Stanwell Corporation.
Ergon Energy has won the International Edison Award 2015 Edison Awards – for technology it developed to allow for fast and accurate inspection and assessment of electricity networks. The Remote Observation Automated Modelling Economic Simulation (ROAMES) technology is an aircraft-based laser and imaging capture system that maps a network and creates a virtual world that was used to assess the damage in the wake of Cyclone Marcia in February 2015 enabling a faster, safer and more effective and efficient response.
Provides aeronautical and freight services for domestic passenger services to Brisbane, Mackay and Gladstone with Qantas and Virgin Australia and to Townsville and Gold Coast with Jetgo.
Runway and support infrastructure that can accommodate all commercial passenger and heavy lift aircraft.
The airport and associated specialist facilities are routinely used by Australian and international defence forces in support of their activities in the Shoalwater Bay Training Area.
Domestic and international air freight capabilities are of importance to Australia's national freight activities as well as logistics operators seeking rapid links to Asia Pacific markets.
An attractive site for aeronautical businesses; including engineering, manufacturing, defence and related industries.
The Region is home to hosting Queensland's most integrated education industry – the state's first dual sector university integrating vocational and tertiary education through a merger of CQUniversity and CQTAFE. Ongoing transformations are enormously increasing the Region's capacity to produce appropriately educated and vocationally trained staff for the state's engineering and health sectors.
Joint training initiatives between CQUniversity and Queensland Health through the Rockhampton Hospital.
University of Queensland – School of Medicine "Rural Clinical School" located in Rockhampton.
Professional, scientific and technical services make up the Region's fastest growing sector with demonstrated successes providing domestic and foreign markets with mining, industrial, freight and transport services.
Ergon Energy has chosen the Rockhampton Region for its trial of 'Smart Meter' technology – integrated broadband electricity meters. Ergon is using a site in Yeppoon as a pilot project for this innovative technology.
Through the National Broadband Service, NBN, the Region's telecommunications services will be comparable to national capital cities.
The Region has created an enabling environment for continued growth and is at the apex of broadband communication improvement plans, bolstered by its energy sector and health service hub roles.
Embraces the National Broadband Network as it will significantly expand the Rockhampton Region's capacity to deliver services to Central Queensland particularly in the areas of health and education.
The Region already provides approximately 7% of Queensland's jobs in the 'Energy, Gas, and Water sector' and is home to very highly skilled technicians employed by major energy concerns like Ergon Energy and Stanwell Power Station.
Employment in the sector has grown by approximately 77% between 2006 and 2010 within the region and also offers flow-on opportunities for business concerns providing associated services and facilities.
The Region is already linked to the entire eastern seaboard through high capacity transmission infrastructure due to the 1434 megawatt Stanwell Power Station.
The Region offers outstanding viable sun, wind, water, and geothermal resources at sites close to the grid for further energy generation facilities.
The Region offers excellent vehicles of communication between the private sector and government, and strong links between government agents due to housing state and federal executive offices.
The Region offers strong links to Australian and foreign agents for investment and promotion of local operators to Australian and foreign markets, and is home to dedicated government funded specialist Trade Queensland and AusTrade exporter services.
The Region has demonstrated an environment conducive to sustained investment and returns, supporting strong investor confidence and access to finance due to low risk ratings by lenders and mortgage insurers. | {
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Indigo starts Gorakhpur-New Delhi flight
Lucknow | Updated: September 3, 2018 9:37:16 PM
Private carrier Indigo Airlines on Monday started its direct flights from Gorakhpur, the parliamentary constituency of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, to New Delhi.
With the launch of the services of the Indigo Airlines, three flights operate between New Delhi and this eastern UP hub. (Reuters)
Private carrier Indigo Airlines on Monday started its direct flights from Gorakhpur, the parliamentary constituency of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, to New Delhi. The flight was flagged off by the Chief Minister in the presence of the Union Civil Aviation Minister Suresh Prabhu, his deputy Jayant Sinha, Union Minister of State for Finance Shiv Pratap Shukla and state's Civil Aviation Minister Nand Gopal 'Nandi'.
The 180-seater aircraft will fly daily between the two cities. Addressing the gathering after inaugurating the service, the Chief Minister said not long ago the Gorakhpur airport resembled a road-side eatery, but with the cooperation from the Union government, the state government in a very short time has done a swift and complete makeover of the facility.
"When we came to power, there were only regular flights from three airports in the state and we are now in a situation that very soon flights will be operating from 22 places in Uttar Pradesh," he said.
With the launch of the services of the Indigo Airlines, three flights operate between New Delhi and this eastern UP hub. Spice Jet and Air India already have flights from Gorakhpur. The Gorakhpur terminus built at a cost of Rs 22.5 crore has a seating capacity for 200 persons, four check-in counters and two X-ray machines, an official said. | {
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There's little more soul-crushing than having a rough old day at work, rushing to the tube station and then - *chills* - you find the platforms are absolutely rammed.
It's enough to make you want to pack it all in, sell all your worldly belongings and move to a small wood hut on the side of a mountain. Yes, you'd be alone without human contact, electricity or the internet. But just think: no more London commuters. Bliss.
But if you're not ready to commit to a life of perpetual solitude, TfL has come up with two handy maps that tell you when the major stations are busiest during the morning and afternoon rush hours.
As you'd expect, the busiest times in the mornings for the major stations, including Waterloo, Victoria and Oxford Circus, are between 7.45 am and 8.45am.
While it would be helpful if TfL actually invested in more trains and better services, you might be able to use these maps to find a sneaky little work around to your commute and shave a few minutes off the daily grind.
And if not, start saving up now for that deposit on a nice little hut somewhere.
While you're here, we've also rounded up some more great tube maps, that will hopefully make your life a little easier. Because we're nice like that, OK?
See it in full here. | {
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It's the worst having to say no to a client (usually) because we want to make them happy and have them walking away with a glowing review. However, there are times when you know you just can't accommodate a client's needs, whether it's due to time, complexity, budgeting, staffing, etc. If you are providing the service you have to be 100% certain you can deliver it. Part of the process of determining what you can or can't do is having a conversation and asking all the right questions. This sounds obvious, I know, but knowing what the right questions are for what you need is something that can be overlooked. What service do you offer? What do you need from your client to execute your services? Create a list of questions for each person you interact with so you can not only assess their needs but determine where you can improve the experience. In creating them, it forces you to think about what makes sense for you. After you've gone through this process, you then have to decide what to do when it doesn't make sense for you.
Which leads to the second rule: Make every "no" a positive response. This is not an oxymoron. What it means is giving a positive reason for saying no. Let what is best for the client be the focus of your discussion of why you are telling them no. They don't care about your internal reasonings unless it directly effects their event anyway. Keep it simple, to the point and directly related to the client's needs. Being aware of as many details as your client can give you will also help you know what positives to bring up in your "no" conversation.
The third rule of saying no: Make It a Yes Whenever You Can. It's tough to say no but there are also plenty of people who don't want to do more than they have to. Going above and beyond is the backbone for any successful event planner, so don't assume your client is not going to like an alternative you suggest and always come prepared with at least a few suggestions. For example "I know you are looking to come in for dinner with a group of 50 before going to the show, with an hour set aside to eat. Based on your menu choices, we would require no less than 2 hours to serve this 4 course meal. Would you consider pre-selecting some things which are quicker to serve?" Or "I know you wanted to have an 9 piece band perform, however this will not allow you to have all 300 guests. Would you consider brining in a dj that has a smaller set up or perhaps use a 3-4 piece band?" Listening to your client and providing options is important because if you are thinking "you want to do WHAT? Are you stupid?" is NOT going to get you business. But if the budget is right and you have options to move things along, then you can take what seems like an obvious no and make it a yes. Pre-set appetizers or a smaller band/dj may be acceptable. Just before you tell someone no, make sure that you absolutely have to first. | {
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build_subdirectory(cc)
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It is with great anticipation and excitement that I embark on this next chapter of my artistic journey.
I've been painting now for over 20 years, but 3 years ago I decided to go back to basics and took a sketching class through www.sketchbookskool.com. One class turned into 3 classes and before I knew it I was sketching more than I was painting. I began carrying a sketchbook, pens and micro-watercolor set with me everywhere I went. Sketching is my new art love.
And I've created a new project and space to share this love with you. I would love for you to check it out and let me know what you think.
Visit my new art love: www.youvebeensketched.com.
I love your work-all your work! You are VERY talented- It looks great! | {
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Sweden wins Eurovision Song Contest
By Katerina Nikolas May 27, 2012 in Entertainment
Baku - Swedish pop star pop star Loreen swept to victory in Saturday's Eurovision Song Contest hosted in Azerbaijan, with her popular choice of "Euphoria."
Celebrating her win 28-year-old Loreen said it was "A fantastic feeling, I almost started sobbing... but now I want to see what I can do better. Two months of preparation can do miracles!"
Twenty-six entrants made it into the final. A group of Russian grandmothers, Buranovskiye Babushki, took second place, whilst Serbia's Zeljko Joksimovic came third. Representing the U.K. and still swinging at 76 was Engelbert Humperdinck, who placed second to last in the contest.
Greece's Eleftheria Eleftheriou, earlier the butt of insults that Greece could not afford to dress her properly due to economic woes, came seventeenth. The host country Azerbaijan finished in a respectable fourth place. A full list of all the results can be seen on Focus.
The 2012 Eurovision Song Contest brought attention to Azerbaijan as human rights groups protested to draw attention to torture and political imprisonment. Neighboring Iran was drawn into a diplomatic row after it accused Baku of planning to host a gay parade during the contest, resulting in the withdrawal of the Iranian ambassador.
More about Eurovision song contest, Sweden wins eurovision, Loreen, engelbert humperdinck, Eleftheria Eleftheriou
Eurovision song cont... Sweden wins eurovisi... Loreen engelbert humperdinc... Eleftheria Eleftheri... | {
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Due to expanding staffing needs, Nantucket Island Resorts is holding its first-ever job fair Wednesday, May 23 in hopes of filling some 30 seasonal and year-round jobs.
In a sign of just how badly NIR needs to fill open positions at its properties, which include Harbor House Village, Jared Coffin House and White Elephant hotels, the Brant Point Grill and others, is a new offering of seasonal health insurance.
�That is something I have wanted to offer for quite some time,� said Hashem.
Earlier in the year, when other businesses were struggling through the paperwork maze of the H2-B visa application process, Hashem said NIR was not having issues in bringing in foreign workers and said in an interview earlier this week that that was still the case. He reiterated that new positions were what needed to be filled and felt a job fair was the right way to fill the empty jobs.
Hashem said the majority of the 30 positions are seasonal jobs that will run through the fall, but a spa manager for the two new spas is a year-round position.
With the longer season, NIR is often not in a position to hire the typical college student coming to Nantucket for a summer because they arrive in mid-May and depart before the end of August.
Which is why Hashem hopes the job fair will attract island residents, especially those who already have housing because NIR has already filled its nearly 275 housing slots.
Hashem said another advantage of working for NIR is that when the season begins to wind down, recruiters from other resort communities, such as Jackson Hole, Wyo., come to Nantucket with job offers because of the reputation NIR has.
�If you work with us, you have an opportunity to work at a lot of other places,� said Hashem.
Hashem said job seekers should treat the job fair as if it were an interview, with resumes, what position they would like to fill, and what hours and length of time they can work.
NIR also offers many discounts for employees on its hotels and restaurants as part of their employment package.
The job fair will be held Wednesday, May 23 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Harbor House Village on South Beach Street. | {
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Ride Culture – a celebration of the resurgent bobber, café racer and retro motorcycle scene – will kick off with a preview party at Bristol's Paintworks on Friday 12th May at 6pm.
Fowlers, Bristol's well-known and long-established motorcycle dealer, will be supporting this exciting new event, to help get it off to a strong start. The team at Fowlers has picked a selection of cool machines to bring to the show, including its own 'take' on the all-conquering Triumph Bobber, plus a pair of Yamaha's yard-built custom machines and a Moto Guzzi V7 Sport in retro colours.
Named the best place to live in Britain by the Sunday Times, Bristol has become associated with all things cool, and riders involved in this alternative bike culture felt that the time had come for the city to host its own special event – with a unique Bristol twist – along the lines of the Bike Shed (Shoreditch, London) and The One Show (Portland, USA).
Curated by Spoke & Stringer, the show will feature back-to-basics machines that capture the raw pleasure of motorcycling, like Down & Out's awesome custom Bobber (one of the highlights of the NEC) and Old Empire's classy Bonneville T120 (below), alongside an assortment of factory customs from Triumph, Yamaha, Ducati and BMW. Individual and team builders from across the South West will also be displaying their creations.
Fowlers will be bringing a hand-picked selection of the coolest clothing and helmets from some great heritage brands for you to see, such as Belstaff, Bell and Hedon, featuring authentic-looking retro ranges to help you look as good as your ride!
PLUS Street food from Spoke & Stringer's award-winning kitchen, craft ales, local cider and Easy Jose speciality Coffee.
Paintworks is a stylish event space in Bristol's 'Creative Quarter', just a couple of minutes' ride up the A4 Bath Road from Fowlers' spectacular showrooms, where you can see new bikes from Moto Guzzi, Triumph, Yamaha, Suzuki, Aprilia, Honda, KTM, Husqvarna, Piaggio and Vespa, plus hundreds of pre-owned machines of all makes.
Hurry….space is limited and they'll be sure to sell out fast!
Ride Culture is more than just an event – it's a life-style!
This entry was posted in Events, News, Triumph and tagged Event, Ride Culture, Spoke & Stringer on 05/05/2017 by Fowlers News.
Launch night for the Triumph Bobber in Bristol a success!
Triumph announced their ground-breaking new Bobber in October 2016, using the massively popular T120 engine, but with a retro look and quality of styling rarely seen in a stock bike. The Bobber was an immediate hit with fans all over the world, and the launch was highly anticipated in 2017. As the day came around to unveil both the Bobber and the new Street Scrambler, Fowlers and Spoke & Stringer, a stylish surf and bike cafe in the Bristol harbour, got together to plan a launch event of a suitably cool calibre.
The entire Bonneville range was present on the night, showing off Triumph's current range to its best – in addition to a handpicked selection of Triumph-branded clothing and accessories. Spoke & Stringer provided a delicious buffet – moroccan street food, rich coffees and a great selection of artisan beers and ales. Around 140 guests attended, and quickly packed out the small cafe.
The unveiling was preceded by a short video, showing the Bobber and Street Scrambler gliding through sun-kissed gorges – a bit of a contrast to the cold and darkness falling outside! The finale was heralded by the roaring of both bikes' engines, and the Street Scrambler and iconic Bobber came thundering into the crowd, through the front doors, to take pride of place in the lobby.
Seats were sat on, details admired and lots of selfies taken – cementing the Bobber and the Street Scrambler as another two fantastic additions to the Triumph Bonneville stable.
Photos from the event are below – if you're interested in any of the Triumph Bonneville range, including the new Bobber and Street Scrambler, please get in touch with Fowlers Triumph on 0117 977 0466.
This entry was posted in Fun, New Bikes, Triumph and tagged Bobber, Bonneville, Events, Launch, New Bikes, Triumph on 24/02/2017 by Fowlers News.
Triumph have released a custom version of their massively popular 1200cc T120 Bonneville – the Bobber. Stripping the Bonneville T120 back to basics, it delivers all the hallmarks of a real bobber: clean lines and low stance, single seat, wide flat bars, minimal bodywork and headlight, sculpted tank, wire spoked wheels, with wide rear wheel and that all important hard tail look. The frame, chassis and suspension is all-new too – a custom bike without the custom headache!
The authentic battery box with stainless steel strap, drum brake-styled rear hub and rear fender loop add small touches of style that make up a whole Bobber.
The ignition barrel, located on the front right-hand panel, adds a touch of authenticity. Bar end mirrors and all-new risers complete the look – but there are over 150 accessories that can be added to make your Bobber truly yours.
Look out for the gorgeous Triumph Bonneville Bobber at Fowlers in 2017!
This entry was posted in New Bikes, Triumph and tagged Bobber, Bonneville, T120, Triumph on 20/10/2016 by Fowlers News.
With their release of the new Street Twin earlier this year, Triumph are certainly not resting on their laurels, and the release of three new T100 bikes at Intermot will only help to draw more riders to the retro-inspired side. The Street Cup, a gorgeous cafe racer-inspired version of the new 900cc T100 range, features an exclusive bullet seat, dropped Ace bars, a seat cowl and colour-matched flyscreen.
The standard T100 has also benefitted from a refresh, available in an all-black colourway as well as the classic blue or orange, and white paint scheme. Triumph's accessory range is also next-to-none, with over 150 parts available to truly make your Triumph your own.
Based on the Street Twin platform, an A2 restriction kit is now also available, meaning that A2 riders now have the option to own one of the hottest, most stylish looking bikes around.
This entry was posted in New Bikes, Triumph and tagged Intermot, T100, Triumph on 04/10/2016 by Fowlers News.
To celebrate 10 years of the much-loved Street Triple, Triumph have released three special editions, in collaboration with 8 Ball, the world-famous bike paintwork and airbrush team.
Just 50 editions of each of the Dark, Gold and Grey Street Triples will be available, each with their series edition number painted on the tank. Each edition features an Alcantara seat with colour-matched stitching, as well as a bellypan, flyscreen and cowl.
The Street Triple was released at the end of 2007, and the agile, versatile favourite has been winning hearts ever since. With a light chassis and aggressive styling, it's a bike that can make an everyday commute feel like a weekend blast. Updated in 2014, the lighter chassis added even more punch and more nimble handling to this already quick 675cc inline-triple.
To get your hands on one of these limited edition models, please get in touch with Fowlers Triumph online, or call 0117 977 0466.
This entry was posted in New Bikes, Triumph and tagged 8 Ball, Limited Edition, Street Triple, Triumph on 03/10/2016 by Fowlers News. | {
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Q: Create element until condition is true I want to create elements inside another element until condition is true.
I have tried this code but it's not working.
// calculate span size and it's parent
var homeHeight = $(".home").height();
var homeWidth = $(".home").width();
var homeSize = (homeHeight + homeWidth) * 2;
var spanHeight = $(".back-animation span").height();
var spanWidth = $(".back-animation span").width();
var spanSize = (spanHeight + spanWidth) * 2;
// create span elements to fill it's parent.
var createSpan = function() {
var span = document.createElement("span");
while (spanSize <= homeSize) {
$(".animation-hide-overflow").append(span);
spanSize = spanSize + spanSize;
}
};
createSpan();
Note: It's combined with JQuery and I recieve no errors in console.
Note 2: I tried for loop like the bottom but it's not working either.
for (spanSize; spanSize <= homeSize; spanSize = spanSize + spanSize) {
$(".animation-hide-overflow").append(span);
}
EDIT:
Thanks for mentioning, I forgot to call createSpan function! now it's working but it create span just once. Any solutions?
jsfiddle for better demonstration:
http://jsfiddle.net/pooria_h/vqmgmyj0/1/
(It should keep creating span elements until it fills up parent element.)
A: The problem was this section
// create span elements to fill it's parent.
var createSpan = function() {
var span = document.createElement("span");
while (spanSize <= homeSize) {
$(".animation-hide-overflow").append(span);
spanSize = spanSize + spanSize;
}
}
If you pay more attention you can see I've created span variable outside of the loop, So this is what happens: Loop works correctly and it increases spanSize variable until it equals to homeSize variable which is bigger in the start point but the big problem is there isn't a element creation! span element is created before the loop.
So this is the correct way:
// create span elements to fill it's parent.
var createSpan = function() {
while (spanSize <= homeSize) {
var span = document.createElement("span");
$(".animation-hide-overflow").append(span);
spanSize = spanSize + spanSize;
}
}
| {
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<< Magician versus golfer - fabulous! | Spring Meeting & Mackay Triam 11th May >>
An eventful Saturday......
April 29, 2013 11:23 by donald
While Saturday April 27th may well be remembered in Dalhousie circles for some superb golf over Buddon Links ( notably Alan Baird's outstanding 64 and Ian Wilson's fine 70 ), it might be that a unique incident on the 16th tee will prove to be equally significant - and perhaps even more memorable. As Pat Robb's fourball moved serenely towards the closing trio of holes, not one of them could possibly have predicted the oncoming drama which would unfold, as Pat himself teed up his ball in preparation for a wind-assisted drive to start his optimistic search for birdie on the sixteenth. As I am sure most Dalhousie members will agree, he is not one to hang around on the tee, but on this occasion his pause at address was more than enough to allow a black Labrador dog to leap across from the road alongside the boundary fence, grasp Pat's ball in its mouth and gleefully head westwards with its trophy. Chaos, of course, then followed.....thankfully cut short by the dog's owner retrieving the ball from the clutches of the triumphant, pretty reluctant and unsympathetic creature, which - with several growls and a baring of white molars - did not fail to let Pat and his colleagues know how displeased he now felt. From the patchy descriptions so far available from the other members of the group, it is not known to the writer whether Pat suffered any penalty for his ball moving from the tee at address; what IS known, however, is that a considerable amount of "slavers" had to be taken care of before the ball was then struck for real. At this point in time, the writer again regrets that he cannot confirm whether the aforesaid "slavers" were attributable to the dog or the verbal reaction of the member concerned....... | {
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I love small business. I have always been a keen observer…I watch and notice things. I pick up on nuances and energy. Not in a psychic kind of way but more of an intuitive thing. As a child I loved the feeling of belonging that I got from walking along the strip of shops in our neighbourhood…I knew all of the shop names, the shopkeepers and many of them knew my name too, or at least knew me by sight. I would note the handwritten signage in a shop window, the faded patina on a milk bar wall, the way the shelves were neatly or haphazardly arranged, the way a particular shop owner would shuffle from out the back when a customer set the front door bell off. All of these details delighted me and, to be honest, they still do.
From my early days I sensed the despondency of the workers stacking shelves at Franklins supermarket - sensations that were in stark contrast to the warmth and connection I felt at the local family-owned grocery store, even though their tasks were relatively similar. What was it about the family-owned business that made such a difference?
From when I was 14 until I was 22 my mum owned a fabulous little continental-style coffee house, in Sydney. My sister and I would work there on weekends and it was such a beautiful place to be. It was a tiny shop stuffed full to the brim with the finest continental delicacies – quality chocolate, jams, biscuits, freshly roasted coffee, French pastries, Austrian strudels...the list goes on. A couple of kids would always stick their heads in the door on their way home from school just to take a whiff of the heady aroma of freshly ground coffee. Mum employed my calligraphy skills to write all of the shop signage – a job I absolutely loved and to which I would take my most meticulous penmanship. Over Easter and Xmas the shop would be filled to the brim with amazing German gingerbreads and papier mache decorations. Locals would always peer in through the shop window to see our festive display. It was like a miniature Myer window.
Working behind the counter as a young adult was a terrific way to gain a greater understanding of human complexity. No two customers were the same. I learnt to work around the trickier personalities and became friends with people of all ages. Maybe it is the sense of belonging and the way it gets in under your skin that can make small business so rewarding. If I close my eyes now I can still smell, see, hear, taste and feel that special space - crammed full with memories.
What it evokes for me still informs my creative and everyday pursuits and I am very thankful for that experience.
Plump Organic Grocery - OK as a co-founder I am biased but Plump really is a special place that makes such a strong connection with the village that it operates in.
The Flower Exchange - These guys pour all of their love into their very own rural vegie patch and flower garden during the week and then on thursdays bring the weekly harvest to Melbourne. My favourite aspect of their business is the Flower Exchange. They don't sell their flowers but instead have chosen to "create community, share abundance and make conversation instead" by exchanging their flowers for something other than money. This is so up my alley as I am very interested in the notion of alternative economic systems and the benefits they have to those involved. Am looking forward to signing up for my first posy very soon. | {
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HomeNorth Asia, Russia & JapanChina holidaysCountry Guides
The Great Wall of China: taking a quieter path
By China specialist Susan
I feel like I've always known about the Great Wall of China — from childhood encyclopaedias, mentions at school, and countless TV footage. But, until I visited the wall during the year I spent living in China, I'd never considered quite how big it was, and how it came to be.
My expectations were dwarfed by the reality of standing on the wall and gazing at man's greatest building achievement rising and falling into the distance as it scaled the surrounding hills. It's a sight you can't quite prepare for, and I've found that return visits can be just as powerful.
While certain parts of the wall see hordes of visitors each day, I've found that if you pick the right sections you can have a far quieter, more authentic experience.
Visiting the Great Wall of China
Which section of the wall should I visit?
Having lived in China, I've been lucky enough to visit several sections of the wall. There are two within an hour's drive of Beijing — Badaling and Mutianyu. But with such easy access, they can get very busy with day trippers.
A couple of hours from the city is the Huangyaguan section, which sees fewer visitors. Constructed more than 1,400 years ago, during the Northern Qi dynasty, it was extensively restored at the time of the Ming dynasty under the instruction of General Qi Jiguang, who added battlements and further reinforcements. In the 1980s it underwent further restoration, but it's easy to imagine what it would've been like in its heyday.
Stone soldier guarding the wall
From the section's east gate you can hike westwards for 7 km (4 miles) to the Ming-dynasty fortress complex at Huangya Pass. While this section is relatively short, you'll need to navigate steep steps as it snakes its way up the mountainside, so walking along it can take two or three hours.
Another alternative, and my personal preference, is the Jinshanling section. About a two-hour drive northeast of Beijing, it offers a much more peaceful and atmospheric experience. Constructed during the early Ming dynasty and renovated in 1567, it snakes for 10.5 km (6.5 miles) from Longyu Pass in the west to Wangjing Tower in the east at an altitude of 700 m (2,297 ft) above sea level.
Arriving at Jinshanling felt completely different from my prior visits to the wall. I spent the best part of a day there and only saw about 15 other visitors. It meant I could take photographs undisturbed and fully appreciate the wall's scale, as well as the expansive views over forested peaks and valleys.
Though parts of it have crumbled away, Jinshanling is one of the best-preserved sections, with much of its original walls and watchtowers still intact. You don't have to imagine what it would have been like: it's all there in front of you.
Watchtower and lanterns
Spending the day at Jinshanling
You can easily visit Jinshanling on a full-day outing from Beijing, with most people spending around four hours at the wall. The day is whatever you make of it: some people stay for a couple of hours, others choose to take longer, walking farther along the wall to explore its various watchtowers and take in the views.
I was picked up by my private driver-guide in the morning for the 150 km (93 mile) journey. Once out of the city, we wound through mountainous landscapes that began to set the scene for what was to come.
On arrival, you can either take a 15-minute cable car ride up to the wall's highest point, or climb the original centuries-old stairwells to the top (these are steep, so a reasonable level of fitness is required).
Stepping onto the wall felt surreal as I took in the empty pathway stretching before me. About 3 m (9.8 ft) wide and flanked by waist-high walls on either side, the stone pathway is interrupted every 50–100 m (164–328 ft) by one- or two-tiered watchtowers. Made of sandy bricks and stone, they rise like giant chess pieces on the hillsides.
Jinshanling
You can venture inside these towers — some have English inscriptions telling you about their historic significance. I climbed to the top of one and sat alone simply to enjoy a few moments of peace and contemplation. The green farmland and forest stretched for miles below me, with the wall disappearing off into the distance.
Walking the Great Wall of China
While you may be content in taking short, slow strolls along the immediate section of the wall, there is the option to walk farther. I chose to walk for a couple of hours, following a circular route. After getting up onto the wall at Zhuanduokou Pass, I walked along it to Houchuankou Pass. From there you can follow the valley back to the car park.
With the wall meandering over hills and twisting through valleys, I was granted different views every few minutes. I was also able to distinguish between the older and newer sections of the wall, based on how eroded they were and the shade of their stone.
Being accompanied by a guide gives you the advantage that you can take your time and choose which parts to explore in-depth. As you walk, your guide will tell you about the wall's history, filling you in on the various dynasties that played their part in its construction, and the attempted attacks that happened here over the years.
Inscription on the Great Wall of China
Parts of the wall were built by soldiers. One of the more unusual features that my guide pointed out were the Barrier Walls — secondary walls within the wall that soldiers would have used to protect themselves when under attack. I also came across bricks bearing engravings, which my guide explained marked the time when they were made and which battalion made them.
Where to stay when visiting the Great Wall
As most people visit the wall as a day out from Beijing, there are plenty of accommodation options to choose from. I like staying in the city's historic Shijia Hutong district. One of the oldest parts of the capital, the area is made up of narrow, labyrinthine lanes and adjoining courtyard houses known as hutongs, where people have lived since the medieval Yuan dynasty.
Among them is the Shichahai Shadow Art Hotel, a modern hotel designed with Chinese elements in mind. While staying here you have the chance to experience a shadow art puppet performance, which are held three times a week in the hotel's central area. You're also close to attractions such as Houhai Lake and the Bell and Drum Towers.
Staying overnight at the Great Wall
It is, in fact, possible to stay at the Great Wall itself, but only at the busy Mutianyu section. The advantage it gives you is being able to experience the wall in the evening once everyone else has left, and early in the morning before the masses of visitors arrive. You can also watch the sun rising and setting over the wall with no one else around, and with little to no light pollution, the night skies are clear for stargazing.
Shichahai Shadow Art Hotel
Brickyard at Mutianyu is a former brick factory, turned hotel, situated in a small village at the base of the wall. The property has plenty of character, with exposed bricks in the rooms linking to the hotel's heritage. There's a focus on the environment here, with all building materials sourced or recycled from the local area.
Best time to visit the Great Wall of China
The wall can be visited all year, but I'd say the best times are late March to May, and September to early November. During these months, temperatures are comfortable, rain is less likely and the scenery is at its best. The landscape either comes to life in vivid greens or takes on the red, orange and gold tones of autumn. April is particularly pretty as the slopes are carpeted in apricot flowers.
For something different, visit during the winter, when the hills are blanketed in snow. Avoid visiting during national breaks, when domestic tourists flock to the site.
Practicalities of visiting the Great Wall of China
Due to its proximity to Beijing, a trip to the wall can be slotted into almost any China itinerary.
You'll need to be mobile and have some level of fitness, as there are steps all along the wall. However, it's up to you how much you walk and taking the cable car means you don't have to scale the steep steps up to the wall.
The Great Wall at Jinshanling
A background to the Great Wall of China
How long is the Great Wall of China?
With sections being lost to erosion over the years, no one knows the wall's length for sure. The sections built during the Ming dynasty (1368 to 1644) stretch over 6,000 km (3,728 miles). But, archaeological studies suggest that the entire wall, with all of its branches, once spanned around 21,000 km (13,049 miles), beginning in Dandong on China's northeast coast and continuing right along the old Mongolian border to Lop Lake in the northwest.
The wall's scale, age and historical significance have led to it being classed as one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. Claims that you can see the Great Wall of China from space have been disputed, though sections of it have been captured using radar imagery.
When was the Great Wall of China built?
Construction began during the Spring and Autumn (770–476 BC) and Warring States (475–221 BC) periods of the Zhou dynasty and continued until the 16th century. The workforce was primarily made up of soldiers, criminals, slaves and peasants. It's estimated that over two million of them died while toiling in the harsh conditions, giving the wall its nickname, 'The Long Graveyard.
Most of the wall that still exists today was built during the Ming dynasty, when watchtowers and fortresses were added to strengthen its defence.
Stone statues of guards
Why was the Great Wall of China built?
During the Zhou dynasty, China was made up of different states, with battles often breaking out between them. They built separate defensive walls for protection against each other. These walls also acted as a barrier against nomadic tribes that attempted raids and invasions from the north.
It was only once the states became united under the Qin dynasty (221–206 BC) that the various sections were gradually joined up to form the beginnings of what's now known as the Great Wall. This was to strengthen the defence further against the northern tribes, particularly the Mongolians. Even today, the wall is actually more like a network of walls than one long structure.
Over the years, the wall has also acted as a border control for regulating immigration and protecting trade along the Silk Route, providing barracks for soldiers, and acting as a transportation and information corridor.
It's hard to imagine what China would be like today if the wall hadn't been built. Seeing it still standing reminds you of the power that the various emperors once held, as well as the pressure they were under from their enemies.
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Tigers hit 4 homers in 1st inning, drill Pirates 11-5
By WILL GRAVES, 09/08/2020
PITTSBURGH (AP) — Maybe the Detroit Tigers should get four unexpected days off more often. Or maybe they should just face a pitching staff in tatters.
Either way, Detroit's struggling offense has found traction in Pittsburgh. Niko Goodrum, Miguel Cabrera, C.J. Cron and Jeimer Candelario all hit home runs in the first inning against Pirates starter Derek Holland as the Tigers drilled the Pirates 11-5 on Saturday.
Goodrum took the second pitch he saw from Holland (0-1) and sent it into the seats in left field. Cabrera did the same two batters later. Cron followed with a blast to center. Candelario finished it off with a shot that scraped over the all to give Detroit it's first four-homer inning in seven years.
"When something like that happens in the game, you can feel it in the dugout," Cron said. "People get excited and want to step up and do the same thing. It just snowballed. We all got some good pitches to hit and it was a fun first inning for sure."
The Tigers were idle for four days when a series against St. Louis was postponed after COVID-19 spread through the Cardinals' clubhouse. Detroit arrived in Pittsburgh hitting just .205 on the season. That average has now jumped to .239 after scoring 28 runs in 20 innings against the Pirates.
"As an offense, four days off never hurt anybody," Cron said.
Cabrera got three hits, including his 481st career home run. The 37-year-old also drove in three runs to move him past Hall of Famer Jim Thome and into 24th on the all-time list with 1,701. Hall of Famer Reggie Jackson is next with 1,702.
A night after driving in five runs, Goodrum homered and doubled. Jonathan Schoop added three hits and JaCoby Jones turned aside a Pittsburgh rally when he led off the sixth with his fourth home run of the season after the Pirates had drawn within 6-5.
Ivan Nova (1-0) nearly let a big early lead slip away. The veteran, who played two-plus seasons for the Pirates from 2016-18, gave up five runs on six hits with three walks and three strikeouts.
Kevin Newman tied a career-high with four hits and drove in two runs for Pittsburgh. The Pirates have dropped 9 of 10.
Holland, who made the team out of summer camp after signing a minor league deal in the offseason, needed to eat up some innings after the Pirates churned through eight pitchers on Friday.
The 11-year veteran is a boxing fanatic — of former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson in particular — and watches a video that splices knockouts with important strikeouts he's recorded. He was on the receiving end of a flurry from the Tigers in the game's opening minutes.
Holland, however, dug in. At one point he retired 10 of 11 batters and didn't leave until three batters into the sixth. He threw 112 pitches in all while giving up nine runs on 13 hits.
"I told myself, too, no matter what, with what was going on with the bullpen, you've got to go as far as you possibly can," Holland said. "I don't care what the pitch count was. I told them, too: extend it. I don't care if it's 100 pitches. Give me 150, I don't (care)."
After going through three relievers, the Pirates turned to catcher John Ryan Murphy in the ninth. Murphy retired the Tigers in order on eight pitches in his third career appearance on the mound.
SEE YOU IN ST. LOUIS
The Pirates are scheduled to begin a three-game series in St. Louis on Monday. That trip appears to be in doubt as the Cardinals continue to scramble to contain a coronavirus outbreak.
"I would certainly expect and want to have more information before we get on the plane for sure," Pittsburgh general manager Ben Cherington said.
SCARY MOMENT
Pirates 1B Phil Evans exited on a stretcher in the top of the sixth and taken to a hospital for observation after colliding with RF Gregory Polanco while they tried to chase down a flyball in foul territory. Polanco's right elbow hit Evans in the head as the two reached for the ball. Evans was alert while being strapped to a board by medical personnel. Polanco, who also briefly went down, remained in the game.
Pirates: Closer Keone Kela (COVID-19) pitched an inning of live batting practice but there remains no timetable for his return.
Tigers: Spencer Turnbull (1-0, 2.45 ERA), who ended a 19-start winless streak last week when he beat Cincinnati, will go for his second victory on a row in the series finale on Sunday.
Pirates: Steven Brault will be the emergency starter on Sunday after Pittsburgh scratched Joe Musgrove due to soreness in his right ankle. | {
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Q: Soap service invocation operation using google-apps script failing with 500 error code I am trying to invoke a GetWeather soap-service provided by WebserviceX using Google App script and receiving the folllowing error on running the script:
Request failed for http://www.webservicex.net/globalweather.asmx returned code 500. Server response: <?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?><soap:Envelope xmlns:soap="http://schemas.xmlsoap.org/soap/envelope/" xmlns:xsi="http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema-instance" xmlns:xsd="http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema"><soap:Body><soap:Fault><faultcode>soap:Server</faultcode><faultstring>System.Web.Services.Protocols.SoapException: Server was unable to process request. ---> System.Data.SqlClient.SqlException: Procedure or function 'getWeather' expects parameter '@CountryName', which was not supplied. at System.Data.SqlClient.SqlConnection.OnError(SqlException exception, Boolean breakConnection) at System.Data.SqlClient.SqlInternalConnection.OnError(SqlException exception, Boolean breakConnection) at System.Data.SqlClient.TdsParser.ThrowExceptionAndWarning() at System.Data.SqlClient.TdsParser.Run(RunBehavior runBehavior, SqlCommand cmdHandler, SqlDataReader dataStream, BulkCopySimpleResultSet bulkCopyHandler, TdsParserStateObject stateObj) at System.Data.SqlClient.SqlCommand.FinishExecuteReader(SqlDataReader ds, RunBehavior runBehavior, String resetOptionsString) at System.Data.SqlClient.SqlCommand.RunExecuteReaderTds(CommandBehavior cmdBehavior, RunBehavior runBehavior, Boolean returnStream, Boolean async) at System.Data.SqlClient.SqlCommand.RunExecuteReader(CommandBehavior cmdBehavior, RunBehavior runBehavior, Boolean returnStream, String method, DbAsyncResult result) at System.Data.SqlClient.SqlCommand.InternalExecuteNonQuery(DbAsyncResult result, String methodName, Boolean sendToPipe) at System.Data.SqlClient.SqlCommand.ExecuteNonQuery() at WebServicex.GlobalWeather.GetWeather(String CityName, String CountryName) --- End of inner exception stack trace ---</faultstring><detail /></soap:Fault></soap:Body></soap:Envelope> (line 12)
I have checked the parameters expected in the SOAP Request for GetWeather SOAP service but I unable to get as in which element in the soap request is causing the issue.
Below is script code for the same:
function testSoapSerivce() {
var wsdl2 = SoapService.wsdl("http://www.webservicex.net/globalweather.asmx?WSDL");
Logger.log(wsdl2.getServiceNames());
var weatherService=wsdl2.getService("GlobalWeather");
var param2 = [ "GetWeather",
{ "xmlns" : "http://www.webservicex.net/" },
[ "CityName", "New Delhi" ],
[ "CountryName", "India"],
];
var envelope2 = weatherService.getSoapEnvelope("GetWeather", param2)
Logger.log(envelope2);
var result2 = weatherService.GetWeather(param2);
Logger.log(result2.toXmlString());
}
GetWeather Service details can be found at the following link:
http://www.webservicex.net/ws/WSDetails.aspx?CATID=12&WSID=56
A: In your snippet it looks like you added one comma to many.
Try it without the last one "India"],]; The last one defines a empty index in the array.
I've taken a look at the webservicex site.
There actualy is a much easyer way to get the data. The site also offers a HTTP GET service
HTTP GET
The following is a sample HTTP GET request and response. The placeholders shown need to be replaced with actual values.
GET /globalweather.asmx/GetWeather?CityName=string&CountryName=string HTTP/1.1
Host: www.webservicex.net
HTTP/1.1 200 OK
Content-Type: text/xml; charset=utf-8
Content-Length: length
<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?>
<string xmlns="http://www.webserviceX.NET">string</string>
Why not use the UrlFetch service?
| {
"redpajama_set_name": "RedPajamaStackExchange"
} |
David Bowie Brilliant Live Adventures Six Album Series Kicks Off October 30
BRILLIANT LIVE ADVENTURES - A SERIES OF SIX DAVID BOWIE LIVE ALBUMS FROM THE 1990s
VINYL, CD AND LIMITED EDITION BOXES TO HOUSE THE COMPLETE SETS AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY VIA THE DAVID BOWIE OFFICIAL STORE & RHINO.COM
FIRST LIVE ALBUM TO BE RELEASED IS OUVREZ LE CHIEN (LIVE DALLAS '95) CD AND 2-LP
AVAILABLE ON OCTOBER 30
Parlophone Records is proud to announce release details for DAVID BOWIE BRILLIANT LIVE ADVENTURES a series of six live albums from the 1990s which will be released on vinyl and CD as a limited, one-run only pressings. There will also be special limited edition boxes for both vinyl and CD to house the full collection. The albums and boxes will only be available via the David Bowie official store and the Rhino.com store.
The first three albums and the special limited edition boxes will be released pre-Christmas, with the remaining three albums coming early next year.
The first release on CD and double vinyl is DAVID BOWIE OUVREZ LE CHIEN (LIVE DALLAS 95) previously a streaming only live album which was recorded live at the Starplex Amphitheater, Dallas on October 13, 1995 during the U.S. leg of the Outside tour. The title OUVREZ LE CHIEN ("open the dog" in French) originally appeared in the song "All The Madmen" taken from The Man Who Sold The World album which celebrates its 50th anniversary in November of this year. Bowie also used the phrase in the lyrics of his 1993 single "Buddha Of Suburbia," once again spelling "ouvre" without a "z." The "z" was restored when the phrase and its English translation were prominently featured in the stage set of the 1995 Outside tour.
OUVREZ LE CHIEN was produced by David Bowie and recorded by Steve Guest. The musicians are Bowie – vocals and saxophone, Carlos Alomar – rhythm guitar, Reeves Gabrels – lead guitar and vocals, Gail Ann Dorsey – bass and vocals, Zachary Alford – drums, Peter Schwartz - musical director, keyboards and synthesisers, George Simms – vocals, Mike Garson – piano and keyboards.
The cover image of OUVREZ LE CHIEN was taken by Iman during the '95 tour.
DAVID BOWIE - OUVREZ LE CHIEN
"Look Back In Anger"
"The Voyeur Of Utter Destruction (As Beauty)"
"I Have Not Been To Oxford Town"
"We Prick You"
"I'm Deranged"
"Joe The Lion"
"Nite Flights"
"Teenage Wildlife"
"Look Back In Anger" (David Bowie/Brian Eno)
"The Hearts Filthy Lesson (David Bowie/Brian Eno/Michael Garson/Sterling Campbell/Erdal "Kizilcay/Reeves Gabrels)
"The Voyeur Of Utter Destruction (As Beauty) (David Bowie/Brian Eno/Reeves Gabrels)
"I Have Not Been To Oxford Town" (David Bowie/Brian Eno)
"Outside" (David Bowie/Kevin Armstrong)
"Andy Warhol" (David Bowie)
"Breaking Glass" (David Bowie/George Murray/Dennis Davis)
SIDE THREE
"The Man Who Sold The World" (David Bowie)
"We Prick You" (David Bowie/Brian Eno)
"I'm Deranged" (David Bowie/Brian Eno)
"Joe The Lion" (David Bowie)
SIDE FOUR
"Nite Flights" (Scott Engel)
"Under Pressure" (David Bowie/Freddie Mercury/Roger Taylor/John Deacon/Brian May)
"Teenage Wildlife" (David Bowie)
Recorded live at the Starplex Amphitheatre, Dallas, October 13, 1995. | {
"redpajama_set_name": "RedPajamaCommonCrawl"
} |
Q: Execute a javascript function when textbox is populated in jQuery? How do I execute a function in JavaScript when a text box is populated with text? The text box with be hidden from the user. It will be populated by a USB magnetic card swiper.
Pseudo code:
<script language="javascript" type="text/javascript">
function MyFunction() {
//execute this function when MyTxtBox is populated
}
</script>
<asp:TextBox id="MyTxtBox" runat="server" Visible="false" />
A: Seems like you're doing this when the page loads. If you are, this would work.
$(document).ready(function(){
if($('#MyTxtBox').val().length > 0){
MyFunction();
}
});
If it's on change:
$(document).ready(function(){
$('#MyTxtBox').change(function(){
if($(this).val().length > 0){
MyFunction();
}
});
});
A: See munch's answer but use CSS to hide the text box as setting visible = false will result in the text box HTML not being rendered and therefore not being available on the client side.
<style type="text/css">
.USBBox
{
position: absolute;
left: -999em;
overflow: hidden;
}
</style>
<asp.textbox id="MyTextBox" runat="server" CSSClass="USBBox" />
You can then use jQuery's class selector to acces the text box and not worry about name mangling:
%('.USBBox')
If you have a lot of elements on the page however you might be better accessing by id, in which case use the client id to avoid any name mangling issues:
$('#<%= MyTextBox.ClientID %>')
Update
Used CSS solution provided in this link to hide the textbox from the user. Updated the USBBox CSS class with correct solution as setting display:none caused javaScript issues.
A: Attach to MyTxtBox's onChange event. You need to do a bit of ASP.NET to produce the appropriate ClientID for use in JavaScript, since ASP.NET will modify the MyTxtBox ID into something else.
<asp:TextBox id="MyTxtBox" runat="server" Visible="false" />
<script language="javascript" type="text/javascript">
function MyFunction() {
//execute this function when MyTxtBox is populated
}
document.getElementById("<%= MyTxtBox.ClientID %>").onChange = MyFunction;
</script>
| {
"redpajama_set_name": "RedPajamaStackExchange"
} |
Foreign gamblers who bet up to $100,000 in a single hand in some B.C. casinos helped drive the provincial government's gambling take to a record high last year.
The B.C. Lottery Corporation's net profit that goes to the province climbed 6.8 per cent to $1.25 billion in 2014-15, up $80 million from the previous year.
The corporation's annual report says the increase was driven by "exceptional performance" from high-limit table games, which saw the maximum bet raised from $75,000 to $100,000 at some sites.
Casinos such as River Rock in Richmond and the Hard Rock Casino in Coquitlam offer "ultra-private" high-limit VIP poker rooms and baccarat salons that are popular with Asian tourists.
The increase from high-limit gamblers offset weak results in lotteries, which were down because the year served up fewer large jackpots.
While BCLC has gained from high rollers, the report warns their interest could wane.
"The recent slowdown in some national economies and international currency restrictions present business risks," the report said, without explicitly mentioning China, where the Beijing government has posted lower growth estimates and intervened to prop up a falling stock market.
An estimated 51 per cent of B.C. adults gambled through BCLC at least monthly last year. That rate has fallen from 69 per cent in 2012 but BCLC is aiming to get it back up to 55 per cent next year.
The average B.C. resident lost $482 a year to BCLC, up from $450 in 2012 and $382 in 2005.
More than $950 million in net BCLC profit came from casinos and slot-equipped community gaming centres, compared to $304 million from lotteries and e-gaming.
River Rock had the highest combined slot and table game revenue of $420 million last year, followed by $204 million at the Grand Villa Casino in Burnaby, $150 million at Vancouver's Edgewater Casino, $125 million at the Hard Rock Casino Vancouver, $109 million at Starlight in New Westminster, $106 million at Cascades in Langley, and $53 million at Fraser Downs Racetrack and Casino in Cloverdale, where a rebranding under the name "Elements" is underway.
Overall, $1.04 billion was lost gambling at those Lower Mainland casinos in 2014.
Net profits from BCLC help the province fund health, education and grants to community groups. Host municipalities also get a share of casino profits.
Out of each dollar gambled in B.C., 43 cents goes to provincial and community programs, 23 cents goes to prizes, 23 cents goes to commissions and fees, nine per cent is operating expenses and two per cent is federal tax. | {
"redpajama_set_name": "RedPajamaC4"
} |
The Scottish Football Blog
The but 'n' ben of Scottish football. You'll have had your news.
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STV and Rangers: Love hurts
A rather anaemic press release on Rangers' website seems to have set the Twitter world all a-flutter.
The club will join with STV to explore "commercial" opportunities.
Two businesses, each negotiating their own challenges in a changing world, form a vague union that they hope will end profitably for both.
The very thought!
Given some of the stronger comments heading STV's way the commercial benefits from the deal might be offset by the negative perception it's creating in a divided city.
Scottish football largely fails to exploit online opportunities so a deal of this sort makes sense for the club. And while people rage about a biased national broadcaster - are the good folk of BBC Scotland enjoying a wry smile - we don't know if other clubs have been approached or if other announcements of partnerships are imminent.
Indeed STV might be cursing - does their own reticence to engage with the story speak volumes - that Rangers pushed this particular announcement out unilaterally.
My memory might be hazy but I'm not sure if can remember such gnashing off teeth when Sky TV became a shareholder in Leeds United.
Or when STV's parent company SMG got involved in a not wholly satisfactory dalliance with Hearts back in 1999. Make no mistake, if conflict of interest is your concern, then that deal at Tynecastle offered a far more troubling precedent than this latest venture.
But this is Glasgow and this is football so uproar, even while the full facts are still to be established, must surely follow.
And that's something that STV's commercial high heid yins should have predicted. That's what happens when you sup - however constructively, however fiscally sensibly - with someone else's devil.
What's troubled me more is the way that people have been so quick to throw into question the integrity of STV journalists.
STV's online coverage has been one of the success stories of Scottish football's hard transition to a digital age.
To see people - including some pontificating fellow journalists - immediately jump on STV's editorial staff and accuse them of now following an agenda or of following an agenda at some unspecified time in the future is a worry.
Obviously the accusers are chasing their own agenda - and largely I think the followers of forty Scottish league sides won't care - but it's another sign of how difficult the game is to cover in an age of over sensitive whining from all sides.
I don't know the details of the deal, I don't know the circumstances in which STV's editorial team found out that a deal had been struck with another arm of the organisation.
I've no doubt though that the guys that work there would be as concerned as anyone if this was going to impinge on their freedom to do their jobs.
This deal - if it's a one-off, if it's a wide ranging collaboration - may yet be a bad commercial move for STV.
But until we know exactly what's planned it seems unfair - it even seems unreasonably biased - to catch innocent reporters in the crossfire of a never ending game of Old Firm tit-for-tat.
The Scottish Football Blog blogathon took place in November in aid of Alzheimer Scotland and the Homeless World Cup. You can still donate to help two great causes.
Labels: commercial deal, Rangers, Scottish football online, STV
Justice takes a break
So Lee McCulloch is free to play for Rangers tonight.
How can that be? Wasn't he red carded against St Mirren on Saturday?
That he was. For flinging an elbow. I've seen more heinous crimes on a football pitch. But I'd also say that the red card was justified.
Opinions, of course, are like certain anatomical features. We all have them.
Ally McCoist has his: McCulloch should not have been sent off so Rangers have appealed the decision.
That's fair enough.
Complications arise though.
It's Christmas. So the SFA's much heralded fast tracked disciplinary procedure has developed a breakdown. The main players are on holiday.
McCoist is adamant that he's not playing the system, he's simply standing by his man, seeking justice for the wronged party.
Who's to doubt to his sincerity?
But it's a handy loophole and one that a touch of foresight should have closed in advance.
This isn't really about McCoist or McCulloch.
It's about the SFA realising that their processes must be active as long as games are being played. Otherwise, in an Old Firm week, they're opening themselves up to a whole lot of nonsense.
Justice, and Stewart Regan's SFA revolution, is weakened if it needs a Christmas holiday.
Labels: ally mccoist, Lee McCulloch, Rangers, SFA, SFA Disciplinary Committee, Stewart Regan
SPL: Wednesday Wonders
The SPL works off the turkey and mince pies with a full Wednesday evening fixture. The eyes of the world upon us once more. Or at least the eyes of those Sky viewers not tempted by the tungsten superheroes at the Ally Pally.
Celtic v Rangers
Apparently recent form has left some Celtic supporters confident about this one.
Yet Ally McCoist was quick yesterday to talk about his confidence in victory.
I don't understand anybody displaying confidence before a big game. Fear, misery and a sense of doom are my defaults. And who is to say I've not got it right?
If you're expecting defeat it hurts less when you lose and you enjoy it more when you win.
Avoid hubris and project pitiful pessimism at all times. It's the path to a happier life.
Still, I'll never known what it's like to support one side or t'other in the greatest sporting rivalry on earth. And, for that matter, I'll never know what it's like to support one side or t'other in an Old Firm game either.
Instead I peer into the cauldron of Glasgow and a see a game that will end another chapter in a twisting title race.
Victory for either side will not close the book on this SPL championship. Last season provided enough of a lesson that the points and goals that win or lose titles can lie elsewhere.
It's still a game chock-full of meaning though.
For Celtic and particularly for Neil Lennon victory would offer the final act of redemption in the climb back from the dark days of autumn when they looked hopeless, Rangers looked rampant and Lennon looked vulnerable.
For Rangers and Ally McCoist a win, or even avoiding defeat, would offer evidence that a suddenly feeble looking Rangers are more than capable of holding off a resurgent Celtic.
Tonight's winners, if we're to have a winner, will lead the SPL into 2012. There's no glory in that. But it's an achievement that could offer mighty psychological succour to both sides in a season of mixed fortunes.
Celtic have the momentum. 24 points from the last eight games. The sort of autumn-into-winter run that can define a title winning season.
Rangers have stumbled, fumbled, dropped the ball. Just 16 points from the last eight games, losing ground as Celtic have gobbled up the space between them.
An Old Firm game though. Windae, form book, oot the. We've seen it all before.
One point separates the two. Rangers have won 15, lost two, drawn three. Celtic have won 15, lost three, drawn two. Rangers have scored 37 goals, conceded 11. Celtic have scored 40, conceded 15.
Different seasons, different crises, different periods of sustained victory gathering.
Fag paper thin though, the differences between these behemoths.
A draw? Maybe I'm leaning towards that outcome. Maybe I'll cover myself by betting on a Celtic win.
And, while I'm in the bookies, it would be stupid not to put a couple of quid on Rangers as well.
If you're pushing me I'd say the build-up, current form and home advantage all point towards Celtic.
Mind you I've never been confident placing a bet in my life.
Aberdeen v Hearts
Let's hear it for the Hearts players. Supposedly facing the biggest off field challenges of their careers, the club facing a crossroads signposted gloom and doom.
And they've scored six in their last two outing, kept two clean sheets and enjoyed dominance over a Motherwell side who have been all but untouchable on the road.
Aberdeen were enjoying a revival before they lost to Inverness on Christmas Eve. They can see daylight between themselves and relegation dunderheids Hibs and Dunfermline though.
And Hearts' struggle on the road which makes a midweek, wintry trip to Pittodrie as welcome as a letter from HMRC.
Draw.
Hibs v Inverness
A new manager but not a new dawn for Hibs. Pat Fenlon criticised the players' fitness after their second half capitulation against Dundee United.
If that is the case then the cluttered festive fixture list could offer dismal tidings for Hibs.
Fenlon seems to have identified the failings but this first period of his reign doesn't appear to offer much chance to right those wrongs.
Apparently some players are upset at the way they're now being spoken to on the training ground. Which just goes to show that even mentally weak, wage thieving wasters have feelings.
Inverness have been striving to impress in recent weeks and came through against Aberdeen with a makeshift side.
There's spirit among Butcher's boys. There's not much in evidence at Easter Road.
Defeat tonight and those last few believers will surely accept that Hibs are in their fight of their lives.
Who would bet against Inverness?
Motherwell v Dunfermline
Motherwell will be slightly chastened after their Christmas Eve defeat at Tynecastle.
They've also been in the strange situation of struggling more at home than they have on the road. Goals have been hard to come by.
Dunfermline, caught in a torrid run of form and looking all at sea, should offer some succour tonight.
Home win.
St Johnstone v Kilmarnock
Joyous wins, stern-faced draws, feeble defeats. St Johnstone and Kilmarnock have had seasons of fluctuating fortunes.
Who's to say they won't bond in their inconsistency with a draw tonight?
St Mirren v Dundee United
What do St Mirren do after a famous, much celebrated win against Rangers?
What do Dundee United do after coming back to beat Hibs?
The evidence of the season suggests that both will struggle to build on the winning of three points.
Which sets us up nicely for another draw.
Labels: Aberdeen v Hearts, Celtic, Celtic and Rangers title race, Celtic v Rangers, Hibs, Inverness, Motherwell v Dunfermline, SPL predictions, St Johnstone v Kilmarnock, St Mirren v Dundee United
SPL Advent: St Mirren
We're so close now you can almost smell the reindeer dung. We reach the final window in the SPL Advent calendar. Fling open the curtains and have a nosy at St Mirren.
One thing you can say about St Mirren is that Danny Lennon will do what's best for St Mirren Football Club and what's best for Danny Lennon. Because what's best for Danny Lennon is also what's best for St Mirren Football Club. That's how Danny Lennon operates.
Ah, Danny. I'm happy to adopt a Bruce Forsyth style theatrically conspiring whisper and admit: "Danny, you are my favourite."
The severe sincerity of his post-match utterances amuse me. But I also admire the way he got on with the job when many felt St Mirren had erred with his appointment.
And I want him to thrive because the idea of managers and players making a progression through the leagues is one that would seem essential to the game's survival in Scotland.
So good on you Danny.
This season he's added experience in the dugout with the arrival of the much travelled Tommy Craig. And he worked to reshape the squad in the summer.
Last year Lennon did what was required, performed the basic function of his job, by keeping St Mirren up.
But his approach in the summer seemed an acknowledgement that not everything he tried, not everything he transferred from Cowdenbeath, had worked.
One does wonder if that idea of a manager being given time to make the odd mistake and the opportunity to put it right will ever catch on.
Has it worked?
19 games in, half the season gone, and 22 points won. Five victories, seven draws and seven defeats.
That's already two thirds of the way to last season's points total but it'a another warm welcome to inconsistency, the theme that's run through this SPL Advent like cloves through mulled wine.
Draw at Ibrox one week, lose to Hibs in Paisley the next. Beat Kilmarnock at home one week, lose in Inverness the next. Hard to build a head of steam with those kinds of results.
Taking only eleven points from 24 against teams below them in the league points both to the tightness of the league and the struggle St Mirren face to establish themselves in the top six this season.
26 goals conceded is a fair SPL record but only nine goals scored at home and nine on the road are not enough. Nobody above St Mirren in the league has scored less.
That helps explain why they find themselves in the bottom half of the table and why Lennon will scour the January sales in search of a striker.
The team looks more experienced than last year with more solidity and a greater ability to win games.
That should be enough for safety. Danny Lennon's hope will be that it's enough for slightly more than that.
King forever, ceasing never. Over us all to reign
Danny Lennon wants everyone, players and Danny Lennon himself, to keep learning.
He probably also wants Santa to bring him a goalscorer and more points from "winnable" games.
If he gets that St Mirren could still be bothering the top six come the SPL split.
Labels: SPL Advent, SPL Preview, SPL review, St Mirren
SPL Advent: St Johnstone
Day eleven. Guided by a star of wonder, the SPL Advent takes a trip to Perth.
Perhaps we should all read a Christmas lesson from the good book of McDiarmid Park.
St Johnstone have lost both a talented young manager and a steady, long-serving chairman this season.
And, so far, it's been more evolution for revolution.
The boardroom succession was from father to son as Geoff Brown decided to retire.
His final task was to find a replacement for Derek McInnes.
When McInnes left for Bristol City there was sadness but also an acceptance that such departures are the norm for clubs like St Johnstone.
He went with best wishes and was invited to suggest a potential successor.
Steve Lomas was one of the names that McInnes, although maybe not many other people, put forward.
And so it was that Lomas joined the rogue's gallery of SPL managers.
A surprising appointment? Perhaps, given his low profile in Scotland and his lack of experience.
But they know what they like and like what they know in Perth.
McInnes was charged with evolving the blueprint put in place by another ambitious young manager. Lomas will be given the opportunity to do the same.
A solid stability about these Saints. And it seems to work.
No chasing of impossible dreams, no hissy fits, no financial panics, no existential crises.
Just steady progression. Onwards and upwards but not at the sort of pace that will bring on dizziness.
The Lomas succession appeared miraculously seamless. There was a goalless draw at Ibrox - the manager proving his passion with a quickfire ban for "gesturing" - and then back-to-back wins over Hibs and Hearts.
Three straight defeats since then have proved that life in the SPL is perhaps as not as easy to adjust to as Lomas was making it look.
Yet St Johnstone remain in fourth place. The chasing pack are tight behind them and Motherwell look to have inched too far ahead in third. In a league where most clubs are capable of beating each other there's little to suggest that another wee run won't have the Saints securing not only a top siz place but a top four place.
Some clouds remain on the Perthshire horizon. Those last three defeats all came at home in the space of just eight days.
Played ten, won three, drawn one, lost six. It's not a great home record. 15 of the 20 goals they've conceded have been scored at McDiarmid Park.
Compare and contrast with an away record that's seen them win four and lose only once. That includes wins at Celtic and Motherwell and, arguably, an unpunished dive at Easter Road is the only thing that's robbed them of an unbeaten run on the road.
As with Motherwell we can only wonder how much tighter the top of the league might look if away form could be replicated at home. That's all ifs and buts, the thwarted dreams of living in a duopoly.
What we can say is that St Johnstone really do need to stop this current run if they're to keep ahead of the teams below them and have any hope of engendering some anxiety in Lanarkshire.
And Lomas is going to be tested. Maybe these three straight defeats are about more than injuries to Cillian Sheridan and his strike partner Francisco Sandaza.
They are missed though. Sandaza, top scorer so far, has been one of the success stories of the season and it's asking a lot of Marcus Haber to replace them.
What wriggle room will the January transfer window give Lomas? And will he use it wisely?
There's more to this management lark than wearing a scarf and suggestion a match official is a wan...
Still, this mini-slump apart, I'm reasonably impressed so far. There are teams in the SPL with more to fear going into 2012.
From now on, our troubles will be miles away.
More wins, particularly home wins, and deliverance from injury worries.
Those were Steve Lomas' whispered wishes when he sat on Santa's knee at St John's Shopping Centre.
And if he's going to be scouting round for talent in January, the signings need to be both affordable and effective.
Let the progress continue...
Labels: Derek McInnes, Geoff Brown, SPL Advent, SPL Preview, SPL review, St Johnstone, Steve Lomas
SPL Advent: Rangers
Day ten of the SPL Advent. Rangers. Dreaming of a Whyte Christmas.
Rangers offer another chance for one of these half season reviews to become more a work of financial reporting. I'll try to resist.
We know the taxman cometh, we know Craig Whyte himself rarely seems short of a battle to fight and we know that other companies and individuals have raised concerns over Rangers' financial position.
We still don't know where this particular footballing fable about the perils of avarice will end.
Partly that's because the ins-and-outs of the previous board's relationship with the taxman will not be fully aired until January.
It's also because of Mr Whyte's apparent - to this outsider at least - refusal to properly communicate.
He seems quicker to engage lawyers than engage with fans. There's been the odd platudinous interview. But - again as a detached observer - the lack of an AGM for shareholders and the apparent brittleness of his relationship with the media really only serve to shroud a complex business situation in more mystery.
Is that me being guilty of wandering off the football pitch and into the boardroom and the tax office?
I'd say that Craig Whyte and his new team have presided over a succession of PR blunders that have undermined them even as they've raised the business as usual signs.
That, of course, is entirely up to him. He obviously has a disdain for the media and doesn't consider himself, his business interests or his strategy for Rangers as public property.
But it's created a vacuum that's been filled by constant speculation, supposition, rumour and the odd fact. And Rangers have often looked paralysed in the face of it.
It has helped create a constant "club in crisis" narrative. And that's unfortunate because it's a narrative that hasn't been borne out on the pitch.
There were doubts about Ally McCoist's ability and suitability. There was a strong body of opinion that this was not a season where Rangers could afford to have a novice - all be it a fairly long in the tooth novice - at the tiller.
Two European exits before the summer was frozen from memory, an early league cup defeat to Falkirk. Even the opening draw at home to Hearts.
It all added grist to the mill. McCoist the entertainer was going to turn into McCoist the managerial clown.
Right now it seems like a thousand questions about the future remain unanswered. And it's far too early to make any predictions about McCoist's likely longevity or overall success as a manager.
Yet Rangers have a four point cushion at the top of the league.
They've lost only once, conceded only nine goals, won 15 games and have the league's best goal difference.
Those statistics don't suggest a club suffering a crisis on the pitch. There have been some tight wins, some iffy performances.
Yet they remain four points clear.
That gap has narrowed. At one stage it was a twelve point cushion. But Celtic had a game in hand and were always as likely to go on a run of victories as Rangers were to drop a few points.
I have to admit that I thought Rangers were hopeless - but not lucky - in beating Hibs a couple of weeks ago. I've not seen the game but I've heard tell of a couple of big strokes of fortune helping them past Inverness at the weekend.
Performances like that contribute to the idea of a side struggling to hold itself together as their main rival become ever more buoyant. It's a funny kind of perfection we demand in an imperfect game if 19 points from the last 24 is a sign of impending doom.
Crucially, of course, in the championship waltz played out in Glasgow, Rangers have - right now - the upper hand in the head to heads.
How McCoist must have enjoyed that 4-2 win at Ibrox in September. How he'd like to repeat it next week away to a Celtic side that look more inspired than they did a couple of months ago.
So McCoist is where he is. Top of the league, a four point gap and his team still monotously winning games, even those games they don't look like winning.
Which, as far as the league is concerned, is pretty much exactly what is expected of a Rangers manager.
And yet unease seems to remain. Will players - most crucially top scorer Nikica Jelavić - be sold to help balance the books?
What will happen with the tax case? And how serious will the consequences of that case be?
Amid all this games still need to be played. Three matches between Christmas Eve and the New Year holiday. Including that trip across Glasgow.
Big questions, big stakes, big games.
All McCoist and his players can do is keep winning.
Don't look back or turn away, life can be your's if you'll only stay
Keeping hold of their best players. A resolution to the tax case that is not punitive enough to demand further penury - or worse.
Rangers might be asking for some quite big gifts this year.
More important gifts than football?
Perhaps. But a win at Celtic Park, putting a halt to the momentum Celtic seems to have been building and extending Rangers' lead at the top of the SPL.
Well, that might just feel priceless.
Labels: ally mccoist, Celtic and Rangers title race, Craig Whyte, Rangers, SPL Advent, SPL Preview, SPL review
SPL Advent: Motherwell
Day nine of the SPL Advent. Motherwell, the success story of the season so far.
What were we to expect from Motherwell this SPL season?
Stuart McCall's arrival to replace Craig Brown raised more of a shrug of the shoulders than a cheer last season.
But he impressed in taking the team to the Scottish Cup final, an achievement that raised intriguing possibilities about how he'd fare with a close season behind him.
Crucially he also survived the summer with a relatively unscathed squad.
Top scorer John Sutton left for Hearts but that departure aside, McCall didn't lose any players to rivals and didn't find himself forced into selling key players.
That provided a solid platform for the manager to build on. Unlike so many SPL managers, McCall had the luxury of using his acquisitions to strengthen what was already in place.
The key themes of this SPL Advent review have been transition and inconsistency.
Escaping the tyranny of transition, Motherwell have been the one team from the chasing pack that have delivered consistency.
They've done it with an old school approach to stability.
Six players have featured in every league game, another three have managed 17 out of the 18 games played so far.
If it ain't broke don't fix and all that. And Motherwell are far from being broken.
Michael Higdon, who I'll confess doesn't always convince me, was signed to replace Sutton. And, whatever doubts might remain about a certain profligacy, he has filled the role of top scorer.
With less than half the season gone Jamie Murphy has already equalled his goals tally of the previous two seasons.
Nicky Law was one the Scottish Football Blog's dozen to watch before the season began and he's rarely disappointed. An ever-present, he's the fulcrum of a team playing with confidence and consistency.
With both Higdon and Law, McCall has shown he's got an eye for a sensible signing, for bringing in players that will compliment what he's already got.
Judged on his tenure so far McCall is an impressive fellow, keeping both his side winning and the lustrous ginger hair of a much younger man.
More power to him.
And where has winning got them? The media enjoyed a flirtation with the idea of Motherwell splitting the Old Firm at one stage.
A defeat to Celtic soon put an end to those careless whispers. But Motherwell are looking nicely secure as the best of the rest.
They remain ten points behind Celtic but they're eight clear of fourth placed St Johnstone and twenty points clear of bottom.
With only 12 points separating fourth to twelfth in the SPL, Motherwell are out on their own.
10 games won and four draws. It's been impressive. Heartening too is the way they seem to be able to dust themselves down after the odd defeat, move on and start winning again.
That's not always a quality one associates with teams outside the Old Firm.
Maybe a measure of how good the season has been so far is that some disappointment lingers.
There's the strange discrepancy between home form and away form. Only Rangers have scored more and won more on the road.
But at home Motherwell seem oddly stifled, they've only won three of nine and are the joint lowest scorers at home.
And although they gave some people flutters by positioning themselves between the big two for a while, they're still to take points off Rangers or Celtic.
Minor quibbles. But the difference between a good season and a great season.
And a sign that this could be - with a fair wind and dose of luck - a team that can continue to improve.
I can see a better time, where all our dreams come true
Arguably Motherwell have done quite well out of their last two managers deciding to bugger off.
Old Motherwell manager's don't die. They just go to Aberdeen.
That's allowed progression to the current state of best-of-the-restness.
Staying up there, and further progress, means keeping the nucleus of the team and the manager in place.
The best Christmas present - along with an order for more of the same - would be to keep covetous eyes away from Motherwell's solid riches.
Labels: John Sutton, Michael Higdon, Motherwell, Nicky Law, SPL Advent, SPL Preview, SPL review, Stuart McCall
SPL Advent: Kilmarnock
We tend to be quick to condemn the managerial merry-go-round as propelled by the Largs mafia.
But we're also too often suspicious of incomers who come into the SPL with their odd ways and their funny accents.
We should embrace them. Especially if they're such a delightful puzzle as Kenny Shiels.
There are times when I don't really know what he's talking about. But he speaks with such intensity and enthusiasm that I can't help but warm to him.
Whether it's a "support your local team" war-cry or a "my players were tired because they hadn't played" oxymoron, King Kenny of Killie can usually be relied on to say something that most other managers wouldn't.
Why not? Even if some of it is bollocks it all adds to the gaiety of a game that spends to long wallowing in the doldrums. And until he announces that "fitba' men understand" his methods I'm happy to listen to him over yet another stereotypical Scottish mediocrity.
Last week Shiels was addressing the issue of his transfer window plans. He hinted at activity ahead because the wholesale changes in the summer had resulted in a few players arriving that turned out to be not quite fit for purpose.
So it's a warm welcome for those recurring SPL Advent themes: consistency and transition.
Shiels had to recruit en-masse to reshape a squad that had taken a few heavy blows since Mixu Paatelainen's side had shone some much needed light on the SPL last season.
Kilmarnock required the obligatory period of transition and that's delivered an accompanying period of inconsistency.
Thus Killie have become the team that can ship six goals to Inverness at home, draw away at Hibs a week later and then enjoy a first home win over Rangers in 17 years. Don't call us unpredictable, call us football coupon busters.
It can't do much good for an excitable manager's equilibrium.
Won five, lost five, drawn eight. There's a symmetry to that sequence that points to a season more steady than it's been spectacular.
Comedy nine-goal thriller defeats to Inverness aside, home form has been a cause for cheer.
16 points from 24 and 18 goals scored. Only Celtic have scored more at home. Mind you, only Dunfermline have conceded more on their own patch.
Only one win away from home though. And just six goals scored in eight games, a claim-to-shame bettered only by Hearts.
Ups. And downs.
An odd season. I've been assured since the season kicked off that Shiels felt he'd built a top six side.
I wouldn't be willing to be against him.
Santa Claus won't make me happy with a toy on Christmas Day
There was opprobrium piled on Kenny Shiels after that defeat to Inverness.
Fair enough. It would be a hard one to take as a Kilmarnock fan despite the smiles it brought to the faces of neutrals.
Eight points since twelve since then though.
It's a reaction that shouldn't be sniffed at.
More of the same would be the ideal gift. It could get them through a derby semi-final at Hampden and pretty much wrap a top six place by the middle of February.
Labels: Kenny Shiels, kilmarnock, Mixu Paataleinen, SPL Advent, SPL Preview, SPL review
SPL Advent: Inverness
Day seven of the SPL advent. A trip to the frozen north to see how Inverness are coping this SPL season.
I find Terry Butcher something of an engima. In the past I've - not altogether seriously but not completely in jest - derided him as a bit of an incompetent.
The sort of chap that the Scottish managerial merry-go-round should really jettison for the greater good of the game.
But there he is, ensconced in the Highlands. He brought Inverness back to the SPL and he kept them there.
He likes to foster something of a bunker mentality: "Everybody hates us, cause we're so far away."
Fair enough. It's Scotland not China, but anyone who rails against Scottish football's central belt smugness probably deserves at least a nod of encouragement.
It also seems to foster a certain esprit de corps. They keep plodding along, occasionally producing a performance that make people sit up and take notice.
Only this weekend they were being praised to the rafters, or at the very least profusely patronised, for their bravery in losing at Ibrox.
And there's the rub. Bravery's not to be sniffed at but it doesn't help Inverness move up the table.
At the moment they're just a point off Hibs and Dunfermline at the bottom with Aberdeen's tally of seven points from three games beginning to cast the terrible trio adrift.
This is, of course, Inverness' second season in the SPL. It's a cliche that such seasons are always difficult. Maybe it's true.
Certainly it wasn't much of a prediction to say that they might find life a bit harder this time around.
Not only has the stunning away record that sustained both their promotion and excellent start to last season fizzled out but they had also lost some key players.
A season spent embracing the SPL's key themes - transition and inconsistency - always looked likely.
So it's proved.
Only four games won. More worrying still, 12 games lost. That's more than any other team and a couple more than both Hibs and Dunfermline.
As if to underline the contrast to last season they've lost seven games away from home, conceding 23 goals in the process.
At the moment they seem incapable of building any momentum. Only once have they managed to avoid defeat in the game immediately following a win.
They've taken six points from both St Mirren and Kilmarnock but have yet to beat either of the teams below them.
The goals of Adam Rooney are much missed and - as was predicted - a ready made replacement has not been found.
Although they finished in the bottom six last season must be considered a success. To beat that points total this year Inverness will need to win 13 games in the second half of the season.
It seems unlikely that they're going to manage that. So already we can say that this season has been one of regression?
But there comes a stage when escaping relegation by a point is just as satisfying as finishing 27 points from last place.
Here's to the hope in the future he brings
Yer man, Gregory Tade?
Let's be charitable and say that his signing as a replacement for Adam Rooney intrigued us.
A wee stat though: Tade's scored six goals this season. And Inverness haven't lost when he's scored.
If they keep that up and he finds his touch more often they'll be heading for Europe next season.
Credit also to Andrew Shinnie for his seven goals so far. Keeping those two in the goals would be the sort of gift that goes a long way to keeping Inverness in the SPL.
Terry Butcher wants nothing more than a penalty or two at Ibrox right now.
But a couple of back-to-back wins - Aberdeen style - would probably bring more satisfaction in the long term.
Labels: Adam Rooney, Andrew Shinnie, Gregory Tade, Inverness, SPL Advent, SPL Preview, SPL review, Terry Butcher
SPL Advent: Hibs
Hitting the halfway stage of the SPL Advent calendar. Another annus horribilis for Hibs.
Even those well versed in the grimness of the SPL might have been taken aback by the sheer scale of the despair Hibs have engendered amongst the faithful this season.
If appointing Colin Calderwood was a mistake it was an exponential error, compounded by every signing he was allowed to make and every show of support the board made.
While Calderwood played footsy with Nottingham Forest and blew kisses at Birmingham, Hibs were sinking further into the abyss.
But a petrified (Petrie-fied?) board stuck with him, even rhapsodised about his well hidden attributes, and let the destruction continue.
The result of that folly can be seen in a squad that's not fit for purpose, a support that has ebbed away and a league position that tells no lies.
It has been, for those of us whose sympathies lie in Leith, a horrendous nightmare.
The second half collapse in the League Cup against Celtic, an astonishingly one-sided one-nil defeat against Motherwell, abject surrenders against a limited Dunfermline side in both an away draw and a home loss. Take your pick.
Two of the three games Hibs have won have been 3-2 victories. This was a team so bereft of spine that scoring three goals was just about the only way they could be - reasonably - confident of winning.
It all left Calderwood - and by extension chairman Rod Petrie and his band of taciturn directors - about as welcome in the pubs and hearts of Leith as Jeremy Clarkson at a Fabian Society conference.
I'm not one for leaving games early but it became clear quite early in the home defeat to Dunfermline that the only sensible reason for staying was to vent your frustrations at the end of the game.
Calderwood - the man Rod Petrie had trumpeted as a masterful manager in July - had succeeded in turning the club against itself.
There is a body of opinion that the unease - often the outright negativity - of the fans has hampered Hibs, contributed to their woeful home record.
I'd only really buy that if their away form was spectacularly better. It hasn't been: six points won at home, eight points won away.
The league's joint lowest goalscorers, Hibs have scored eight goals at Easter Road and eight on the road. Half the 28 goals they've conceded have come at home and half away from home.
A team has been built capable of attaining the same levels of crapness wherever they go.
Something had to give. And give it did, in the immediate aftermath of the Dunfermline defeat that had given final confirmation that a Hibs side led by Calderwood would be condemned to fight a relegation battle that they lacked the character to survive.
So Calderwood was gone. The names of the usual suspects were tossed around like empty crisp packets on the cold Edinburgh wind.
But the board - not Petrie, who apparently excused himself from the selection process - alighted on a saviour from across the water.
Welcome Pat Fenlon.
Fenlon arrived with a strong track-record in Irish football, a pocket full of bang-on-the-money, supporter pleasing platitudes and a Herculean task ahead of him.
The neglect, the incompetence, the inadequacies of the last year or so all now lie on his desk.
He immediately brought Michael Hart back into the team at full-back. That wasn't universally welcomed by fans, particularly after what many seemed to consider a horror show against Rangers last week.
But it's hard not to feel sympathy for the manager. Why did he play Hart? Because he's the sort of revolutionary gaffer who likes players to play in their own position. And Michael Hart is, remarkably, the one player in the Hibs squad who would describe himself as a full back.
That's where the mismanagement of the club has led. To a squad that needs strengthening in the next transfer window in exactly the same areas as it needed strengthening in the last transfer window. And the transfer window before that.
Budgets, wage caps, worldwide economic instability. We all know its hard. But Hibs have spent money, paid wages, identified and signed players and not even managed to stand still.
Fenlon's immediate priority is to stop the club going backwards.
And, when you find yourself joint bottom of the league, the margin of error is negligible.
Then the stranger spoke, he said: "do not fear"
The success of Pat Fenlon would be the best, and the most important, gift of all.
It's too early to make a judgement on that. I've warmed to him since he's arrived and there looks to be a change in attitude and application on the pitch.
No real conclusions can be drawn from an abandoned game at Motherwell and a spirited defeat to a misfiring Rangers. Yesterday Hibs had chances against Aberdeen. A dodgy penalty later and their shape and coherence was lost. Same old, same old.
The only hope is that Fenlon has answers enough to solve the ugly conundrum of Hibs' season.
Labels: colin calderwood, Hibs, Pat Fenlon, Rod Petrie, SPL 2011/2012, SPL Advent, SPL review
SPL Advent: Hearts
Day five of our SPL Advent. Peace and goodwill to all me. It's a time for stout Hearts.
Somebody suggested that I could fill every day of this SPL Advent writing about Hearts.
And so I could.
The stories just keep coming.
On Thursday we got the news that the club had paid the players their November wages.
So protracted had that issue become that even Paul McBride QC - the Katie Price of SPL self-publicity - had weighed in to lend his support to the players.
This being Hearts we also got director Sergejus Fedotovas auditioning for a stint as a witness at The Levenson Inquiry and throwing blame around like confetti.
Of course, as the Hearts statement made clear, the wider economic situation and the peculiarly false economics of Scottish football make this a very difficult time. But if 11 other SPL clubs are managing to pay their players on time then the one club that fails to do so will be singled out.
That doesn't appear an unreasonable media narrative or a situation tinged with particularly anti-Romanov prejudice.
It seems that while November's wages have been paid, yesterday's December pay date has been missed. The players union has made an official complaint to the SPL. And on and on it goes...
Whatever the truth behind the most recent stramash it seems unlikely that we're close to the end of stories about sales, stadiums and salaries.
So it's hard to summarise the season so far at Tynecastle without addressing the question of just what in the name of Willie Bauld is going on.
But as nobody actually knows what's going on, or how those goings on will eventually impact on the season, adding to the thousands of words of conjecture seems somewhat redundant.
The football started brightly enough. Progress was made in Europe and a decent performance at Ibrox saw Hearts poop Rangers' flag party on the opening day of the season.
The first Edinburgh derby was won with a minimum of fuss and Celtic have been beaten at Tynecastle.
But, and here Hearts share a common SPL failing, it's been a season lacking much consistency.
St Johnstone and Dundee United have taken six points from two clashes, Kilmarnock have taken four.
A goalless draw with St Mirren and a 2-1 win over Inverness at Tynecastle are the only points won out of the last 18.
A win at Dunfermline has provided the solitary away victory and, although they remain fifth, Hearts are closer to Hibs and Dunfermline at the foot of the league than they are to Motherwell in third.
It's all been quite unsatisfactory, an unwanted continuation of the poor run of form at the end of last season.
That's despite the shock-but-maybe-not-that-shocking-actually jettisoning of Jim Jefferies when the season was but three games old.
Paulo Sergio has proved an enigmatically entertaining - if now largely silent - replacement but he's not really had much of an impact on results.
Hearts have scored only four goals in nine away games and share with Hibs the unwanted distinction of being the SPL's lowest scorers. Edinburgh for thrills?
This isn't a team that's turned into SPL whipping boys though. Only Rangers have conceded fewer goals - at one end of the pitch a resilience remains that would be the envy of most clubs.
Many have been the times during Vladimir Romanov's reign that our eyes have been drawn to events away from the football field. It's to the credit of Romanov, his coaches and the players themselves that Hearts have so often risen above that on the pitch.
Maybe that's not the case this year. Or perhaps this is just a holding season, the inevitable period of stagnation as books are balanced and foundations are built for the future.
What that future holds remains the biggest question of all.
And children listen to hear sleigh bells in the snow
Answers to some legitimate questions and solutions to some Romanov riddles might be the best presents of all at Tynecastle this year.
Maybe things will become clearer in the new year, maybe some equilibrium will be returned.
Largely, however, that would appear to be in the gift of just one man. And it's not Santa.
So some decent results would be the next best thing. By my reckoning only Dunfermline have taken as few points as Hearts from their last six games in a concertinaed SPL.
I'm sure Hearts fans would identify Easter Road on 2nd January as a fine place to get the season going again.
Labels: Hearts, Paulo Sergio, SPL Advent, SPL Preview, SPL review, Vladimir Romanov
SPL Advent: Dunfermline
Today's SPL Advent calendar throws up not a nugget of cheap chocolate but a Stewart's bridie - current SPL basement dwellers Dunfermline.
The road to the SPL is not paved with gold.
On their return to the top flight Dunfermline find themselves bottom of the league. They've taken only four points at home in a miserable run that has seen them fail to win at East End Park.
The injury list has grown ever longer and finances have dictated that they shut one of their stands.
They've even had to cope with referee Bobby Madden making a Michael Fish weather forecast.
This is the romance of top flight football, Fife style.
There were those of us who expected Dunfermline might struggle, that Jim McIntyre hadn't quite had the freedom to bolster his squad as he might have needed in the summer.
But they arrived full of confidence, with their own ideas on how to play the game and how to survive in the SPL.
They started brightly enough. And ten points on the road is a fair return. Away wins at Dundee United and St Johnstone in August were testimony to a team keen to make its mark.
But there they are, propping up the rest and developing a phobia about playing at home. They've won only once in 13 games. From the 4-2 defeat against Motherwell on 27th August to that win at Hibs they conceded 24 goals in eight games and won only two points.
They have been hammered by injuries. Few clubs can cope with an injury list nine or ten players long. It has a massive impact on a club like Dunfermline.
The injury list has offered no respite from a bad run of form - eight of those 14 points were won as they went four games undefeated at the very start of the season.
A team struggling for form is further diminished by injury and the whole things becomes an unfortunate cycle of bad results.
But the SPL is a modest league full of clubs with much to be modest about.
Despite their travails Dunfermline are still in touch. They've even got Hibs for company at the foot of the table.
At times they've conceded too many goals, they're enduring a bad run and they can't buy a win at home.
But they're far from dead and buried.
Watching them beat Hibs last month I saw evidence of what - unfashionable as the idea is in a world of footballing snobbery - spirit and a work ethic can achieve, especially against similarly poor teams.
Their record against the teams around them in the table is not too bad. That 4-0 Friday night humping at Aberdeen apart they've not lost to the three teams immediately above them in the table.
More wins like November's victory at Easter Road are needed but Dunfermline are proving obstinately difficult for Hibs, Inverness and Aberdeen to shake off.
Or, in this impoverished SPL, bottom-placed Dunfermline are but three wins off fourth place.
The first four games of the season offered much but that early promise has delivered little.
It's been a difficult first season back in the SPL. But it's not yet a terminal one.
It's a time for giving, a time for getting
Money to go crazy in the transfer window and the guarantee of a run of home wins.
And I want a winning lottery ticket.
Christmas gifts tend not to work like that.
So Dunfermline will hope for improved luck with injuries, a dash of good fortune to get a win at home and for the teams around them to keep taking points off each other and losing more than they win.
Keep as close to the pack as possible for as long as possible. I still suspect that Dunfermline would back themselves in a prolonged, tense, ugly relegation scrap.
Labels: Dunfermline, Jim McIntyre, SPL 2011/2012, SPL Advent, SPL Preview, SPL review
SPL Advent: Dundee United
Is that a tangerine in your stocking or are you just pleased to see me? Through the great SPL Advent calendar window today: Dundee United.
Consistency, as Motherwell's progress this season has shown, can work wonders in the SPL.
But it eludes three quarters of the league.
The result is a table packed tightly from fourth place to bottom place. That's not a sign of excitement but a sign of groaning mediocrity, a league of well matched journeymen doing nothing very special.
Yet this state of affairs is not without its advantages. A wee run of good results can transform a middling season into an alright season, deliver a team from the evil of the bottom six to the heavenly wonders of the top six.
Which is pretty much exactly where Dundee United find themselves midway through a season of some frustration.
Early on it looked as if Peter Houston was but a round of clear-the-air-talks from having more time to spend with Craig Levein.
He survived. But it would be a stretch to say he has thrived.
There have been some nice wins and some heartening wins. There's also been a few abject performances.
United have yet to win back-to-back SPL games. They've won five, drawn six and lost seven. Only nine goals conceded at home would ordinarily be a heartening record. But they've only managed to score seven, the lowest tally in the league.
Houston is often accused of having inherited his predecessor's timidity but only Rangers have scored more goals away from home. The downside is that only Inverness have conceded more on the road.
It's all amounted to a big sigh and a theatrical shrug of the shoulders kind of a season.
When he seemed set to lose out in an internal conflagration at Tannadice Houston was keen to point to what he's achieved since taking over.
He might also point to mitigating circumstances, of the difficulty of rebuilding a team when big players move on and finances dictate that replacements must be found on a shoestring.
United find themselves in transition, that near permanent state that haunts most SPL clubs.
Garry Kenneth has announced his desire to leave. Scott Allan seems set to head down south. The trend towards transition will continue, the impoverished Scottish game making it ever more difficult to build for the future.
Houston still has some impressive quality at his disposal.
Now he needs to show that his refashioned team can use those assets to come close delivering the results of the last two seasons.
Are you hanging up your stocking on the wall?
27 years ago this week United were narrowly losing a blockbuster of a European tie to Manchester United.
A 5-4 aggregate defeat and a crowd of over 21,000 at Tannadice.
Sturrock, Narey, McAlpine...
Aye, it's not just Aberdeen who can dream of what might have been and what once was.
But not even Santa can turn back the clock.
So the far more prosaic gift of a wee run of a wins, top six security and a bit more excitement at home is probably the order of the day.
I'm not convinced Houston is doing anything particularly wrong. An injury free winter and some consistency would delight him. Not very dramatic. But the difference between a good season, a meh season and a bad season for United.
Labels: Dundee United, Peter Houston, SPL 2011/2012, SPL Advent, SPL Preview, SPL review
SPL Advent: Celtic
Day two of our Scottish football Advent calendar. Celtic lurk behind today's window.
Was it really just a few weeks ago that all hope was lost and Neil Lennon's job prospects looked bleaker by the match?
Celtic teetered as Rangers thrived, the SPL gap was getting bigger and the Parkhead title challenge was being written off.
A defence that seemed porous and ponderous hamstrung a side apparently beset by apathy and poor form.
Modern footballing hype dictated that we pointed to a crisis, that the deficiencies were analysed until they took the form of insurmountable obstacles.
Yet some measure of Celtic's defiance remained, hints of a certain resilience were apparent.
The nadir might have been reached at 3-0 down to Kilmarnock. Punch-drunk and bloodied, Celtic could still drag themselves from the canvas to win a point.
Now, the deficit cut from 12 points to a far more scalable four, they might just have snatched the SPL momentum.
The European win over Rennes, a game which began with an early concession and saw several storms weathered, segued into victory in what was billed as the "second place" clash with Motherwell.
Two tests safely negotiated. Enough, perhaps, to inspire the current run of six straight league wins.
Maybe the catalyst was something far simpler. How much did Kris Commons turning up at training bedecked in neck brace and bandages help lance the boil of rumour and unease that made dodgy results seem worse and hampered the chance of a recovery?
Commons the practical joker breathing spirit into a squad that needed reinvigorated? Stranger things have happened, even if outweighs much of his impact on the pitch so far this season.
Maybe all it took was good players remembering that this is a league that throws up opponents they should be able to dominate.
Weaknesses, of course, remain. Celtic had lost three games by the first week of October. By the end of that month a Hibs team that was attempting to redefine hopelessness had taken a point home from Glasgow.
The defence has been chopped and changed and has too often appeared unsettled on the pitch. Big wins have come but at times Celtic have struggled to convert dominance into goals. That combination will lead to dropped points.
It's strange though how an often false narrative can develop around a team.
We might think Celtic are diminished compared to last season. Maybe they are. But they're only a point worse off than they were at this stage last year. They've conceded only one more goal than they had last season.
Equally importantly they've timed their recovery from a "crisis" period at almost exactly the point where Rangers have endured their own wee slump.
On Saturday Celtic emerged with three points after a struggle against Hearts. Back in October you wouldn't have expected them to come through such a test intact. It's exactly the kind of win that can appear much bigger in May than it does on a cold December evening.
In a two horse race you'd rather be four points ahead than four points behind.
But the last few weeks have been kind to Celtic and the coming weeks promise the return from injury of some big names.
That should be reason enough to look forward to the festive season with optimism to spare.
Celtic - despite an oft stated commitment to good housekeeping - would appear to be the best placed of all the SPL sides to carry the disposable consumerism of our Yuletide orgy into the January transfer window.
Constructive signings who can offer long term solutions to the travails of earlier in the season would seem to be the order of the day.
Such players aren't always easy to find. Santa might feel it prudent to tell Celtic that if they can't find better than the toys they've already got they shouldn't bother.
But two gifts are likely to top the wishlist: An Old Firm win between Christmas and New Year and an SPL title in May.
On current evidence the former would be a massive stride in the direction of the latter.
Labels: Celtic, Celtic and Rangers title race, Kris Commons, Neil Lennon, SPL 2011/2012, SPL Advent, SPL review
SPL Advent: Aberdeen
In the run up to Christmas the Scottish Football Blog is taking a daily look at the season so far for the 12 SPL clubs.
And what they might hope to find in their stockings.
Alphabetically at least Aberdeen are number one.
Woe seems to hang over Pittodrie like a particularly clingy North Sea haar at the moment.
The cliche is of miserable northerners harking back to the Alex Ferguson inspired days of yore.
The reality is a group of supporters suffering agony upon agony and demanding better.
Who can blame them? Joint bottom of the league with only three wins from 17 games, Aberdeen are one of only two teams in Scotland still waiting for an away win.
The other is East Stirling. You don't need to hanker after the glory days of the 1980s to see that Aberdeen probably shouldn't be keeping company with the tenants of Ochilview.
They would be lying fifth if the SPL was judged on home league form alone. Manager Craig Brown loves a stat so he'll be clinging on to that one for dear life.
But he'll also be desperately trying to work out why his team are more apprehensive on the road than a group of flat-earthers on a cruise ship.
He wouldn't be the first manager to be left perplexed by the challenge of Pittodrie. But even hardened Brown defenders, a group for which I'll admit a certain sympathy, must concede that his record so far has been spectacularly underwhelming.
The simplest statistic suggests that with 45 percent of the season gone Aberdeen are up to their knees in relegation dung. And that's because they've stunk for large parts of the season.
Not scoring enough goals, not strong enough at the back, discipline the worst in the league.
It's easy to argue that Brown has inherited a club that is in a mess off the field. That might have been part of this particular poisoned chalice for some time.
Yet his job to rise above all that. Aberdeen are not too big go down. They're not too good to go down.
They've only managed to score more than one goal six times so far. And on three of those occasions they've only managed to win one point.
The latest example of that was Saturday. The referee didn't help their cause. But Aberdeen were two up at home against an inconsistent St Mirren side inside 20 minutes.
And still they could only emerge with a point.
Results like that keep teams in the mire. They don't soothe the worries of supporters who are now so aggrieved that they delivered a coffin to Pittodrie before Saturday's game.
The last rites are a long way off. But Aberdeen need to drag themselves from their sickbed pretty quickly.
Cheap joke out of the way: Aberdeen are well placed to get what they want this festive season. Craig Brown is, after all, the only SPL manager who went to school with Santa. I'm here all week.
There are worse defences in the SPL. But there seems a flimsiness about Aberdeen that is costing them in tight games.
Could Russell Anderson's return add some granite?
Will Brown have the cash and the eye to identify a goalscorer to help out Scott Vernon?
What Santa really needs to bring is some away cheer.
Aberdeen have only scored at East End Park and Celtic Park this season. That is a shocking return.
Take out the seven they've scored in two games against Dunfermline and they've managed only 12 goals in 15 games home and away.
Goals, defensive steel and a few away wins.
Santa will have his work cut out delivering all that. And Brown might well be asking for some job security as well.
Mostly though Aberdeen will be asking not to be relegated. I'll say now that I don't think they will be.
But I've not got flying reindeer at my disposal. There might still be some rough days ahead.
Labels: Abderdeen, SPL 2011/2012, SPL Advent, SPL predictions, SPL review
East v West: The SPL Today
It seems like ages since I tickled the malnourished belly of the SPL with a wildly inaccurate prediction post.
I think the last time I Nostradamus-ed the weekend action Rangers had won the title and Motherwell were about to take the Champion's League by storm.
What a difference an eight point swing makes.
Five east versus west clashes today. It's the SPL's very own version of China's economic boom facing off against western capitalism.
Hibs v Rangers
Hibs threatened a winning start under new manager Pat Fenlon at Motherwell last week. Then a floodlight fire became the latest opponent to beat them this season.
In the 45 minutes that were completed the team looked more organised, more aware of their roles and more prepared to fight for the cause then they have on numerous occasions in the last 18 months.
So far, and it's far too early to form even an embryonic conclusion, so good.
Tough task today though.
12 games and over five years since Hibs beat Rangers at Easter Road. That game featured a double from Chris Killen, a consolation for Rangers debutant Filip Sebo and red cards for Killen and an English youngster called Phil Bardsley.
It seems a lifetime ago.
And it seems like longer than just a few games since Rangers were apparently coasting to the title.
Suddenly Celtic managed to hit some form while Rangers became stuttery. Crucially they've also found goals - from open play at least - hard to come by.
The result has been 14 points in the seven games since they beat Hibs at Ibrox.
Far from a disastrous run of form - the 1-0 defeat at Kilmarnock remains the only loss of the season - but enough of a stumble to concede much of the advantage built up over Celtic.
Add to the mix this week's imbroglio over Sone Aluko and the somewhat hysterical reaction of Ally McCoist on Thursday and we have Fenlon's Irish eyes smiling at catching Rangers at just the right time?
Perhaps not. Fenlon's the new boy but not an ingenue.
Rangers remain top of the league. Hibs remain a point off bottom with only six points from eight home games.
That divergence in positions is not a fluke.
Rangers are a better team than Hibs. And Hibs have been desperately poor at times this season.
Even with a misfiring Rangers anything but an away win will be a shock.
Aberdeen v St Mirren
It's now an apparently essential narrative of each SPL season that we have a few months with Aberdeen in crisis.
That this happens despite changes of management and playing staff suggests that something is rank rotten off the pitch.
Which is a concern. But the more pressing issue is engineering a way to move off the bottom of the table with a misfiring team.
For the moment I'd say Craig Brown remains worthy of the chance to take charge of navigating these choppy waters. But he needs to get a reaction from his team quickly.
Danny Lennon's St Mirren continue to have their unseemly grapples with consistency but you're likely to see more smiles in Paisley than in Aberdeen at the moment.
A trip to bottom of the table Aberdeen is the sort of game St Mirren should win if their assault on the top six is to gain momentum.
A home game against St Mirren is the type of game Aberdeen should see as winnable if they are to escape their current plight.
A recipe for a draw.
Celtic v Hearts
Footballers live in a footballing bubble that allows them to block out off the field problems and boardroom intrigue by virtue of a heady mix of footballing obsession and a general lack of interest that borders on brainlessness.
Until you stop paying their wages. Then all that shit can suddenly get serious.
Which might explain why Hearts' form has dipped. One win out of six and only three goals scored in that run.
That they remain fifth in the table is proof that this has not become a team of hirpling incompetents in the space of a few weeks.
But they are being caught up in off-field complications and it's hurting them.
That backdrop would seem to make this a hell of a bad time to be meeting an invigorated Celtic in Glasgow.
Paulo Sergio will need to discover something Churchillian to inspire the spirit to withstand what we can expect to be a hooped onslaught.
I suspect he might be found wanting. Home win.
Dunfermline v Kilmarnock
Dunfermline haven't won a home game in the SPL this season. They've taken four points from eight games at East End Park, scored eleven and conceded 22.
That's a bad run. If the teams around them start picking up points then it's a run that could become fatal.
Now would be a good time to start doing something about it. That's not easy at the best of times. It's a whole lot harder with nine or ten players out injured.
Kilmarnock have beaten Rangers and Aberdeen since taking only a point from games against Hibs and Inverness.
They are perhaps the enigmas of this SPL season with a manager who is as compelling as he is at times quite bizarre. One does get the feeling that a Kenny Shiels inspired Kilmarnock are in line for an odd journey this year.
They are sixth though and will look at today's fixtures as a great chance to go fifth and pick up something on either Motherwell or St Johnstone.
Away win.
Inverness v Dundee United
Peter Houston seems to have weathered the storm that saw calls for his head just a couple of months ago.
But United still don't quite convince. That's hardly a sin in a league where quality and consistency is well rationed but it does, just maybe, point to a few rocky weeks still to come this season.
Inverness and Terry Butcher continue to dodge along, hearts proudly worn on sleeves, a sustained run of form tantalisingly out of reach.
I've a feeling these two will both finish in the bottom six and won't be separated by that many points.
That would suggest today will be a close one.
St Johnstone v Motherwell
Steve Lomas has picked up both a touchline ban and seven points from his first three SPL games as St Johnstone manager.
An impressive bag of swag to collect from the trips to Ibrox and Tynecastle that sandwiched a comprehensive home over Hibs.
They've even opened up a tiny bit of breathing space in fourth place.
It's the sort of seamless change of manager that you expect St Johnstone would have been searching for.
Onwards and upwards?
The best way to show that intent would be to beat third placed Motherwell, very much this season's success story.
I've seen Motherwell twice. At Easter Road they delivered one of the most one-sided 1-0 tonkings you're ever likely to see. But in the abbreviated match against Hibs last Friday they looked slightly toothless against an organised Hibs defence and a hardworking midfield.
Thirdagainst fourth and much to admire in both teams. It would be nice if this game could deliver something a wee bit special.
St Johnstone are looking good and that's coupled with a touch of momentum. That means, just, a home win for me.
Labels: Aberdeen v St Mirren, Celtic v Hearts, Dunfermline v Kilmarnock, Hibs v Rangers, Inverness v Dundee United, SPL predictions, SPL Preview, St Johnstone v Motherwell
The Worst Football Kits Of All Time
I'd always thought that tartan in football strips was a mid 90s phenomenon restricted to Scotland's Euro 96 team and Morton.
Yet it seems it's a trend that is almost as old as the game itself.
The 10th Lanarkshire Volunteers combined navy jerseys and red socks with Black Watch tartan "knickerbockers" way back in 1884-85 while in 1888-89 Vale of Atholl adopted breeches fashioned from the local tartan.
More recently Dundee became known as the "tartan troops from Tayside" when they wore shirts featuring manager George Anderson's family tartan in an early 1950s tour of South Africa.
Such historical gems rub garish shoulders with modern monstrosities in Dave Moor's The Worst Football Kits Of All Time.
Recoil in horror at David Seaman's Euro 96 shirt, laugh at Arsenal's "bruised banana" of the 1990s, wince at Deportivo Wanka's decision to play the 2002-03 season with "D. Wanka" emblazoned across their chest.
The book is a nice alternative history of football, a whistle stop trundle through Gok Wan's worst nightmares.
Pleasingly, Scottish clubs are well represented. I like to think this is because Moor wanted to create a footballing record that did justice to both England and Scotland's heritage.
I'm prepared to concede that it might simply mean that we're a nation without taste.
Hibs' 1977-78 purple Bukta away kit is so horrible (white sleeves with a yellow and green trim) that one is left wondering why the club have been so keen to resurrect it in recent years.
It also, we're told, "practically invented nipple rash and exposed the wearer to serious risk of self-electrocution."
And who doesn't fondly recall the 1995 Aberdeen away strip that became known as "the vomit top."
My own favourites involve headgear. Surely that's an unexplored accessory in the modern era.
So take a bow Aldenham School whose 1870 all white strip was topped off with a black turban.
I'm loathe to call something a "stocking filler" but if Santa was to deliver this book on Christmas Day you'd at least be guaranteed a laugh between the family quarrels over the Monopoly board and the gnawing of dried out turkey.
The Worst Football Kits Of All Time by Dave Moor
You can still donate to the Scottish Football Blog Blogathon, 19 November 2011
Labels: Dave Moor, Football Books, football shirts, football strips, Worst Football Kits of All Time
Cheats, Divers and Bad Decisions
Sone Aluko got banned for diving.
Garry O'Connor got away with diving.
Ergo the new disciplinary procedures in place at the SFA are ridiculous and hellbent on making a mockery of the Scottish game. At best.
At worst the new procedures have been all but designed to penalise one team above others.
The new compliance officer and fast track appeal system is inconsistent, wrongheaded and - this being Scottish football - its cack-handedness is but a handy cover for some form of discrimination or favouritism.
That would be the conclusion you would draw from some of the more hysterical outpourings that greeted the news that Aluko's two game ban had been upheld yesterday.
I'd disagree.
My opinion: O'Connor dived and got lucky in his dealings with the panel. Aluko dived and got treated the way he should have been treated.
That might be an unfortunate turn of events for everyone but Hibs - those that believe in karma might afford themselves a wry smile - but it doesn't give us evidence enough to judge what has been quite a revolutionary change from the SFA.
So far the compliance officer has been faced with two similar incidents. He's made exactly the same call.
The independent panel - different panels in both cases - disagreed in the first case and agreed in the second.
We need a far bigger sample before we can properly conclude if the new system is working.
The idea that Aluko should have been cleared because O'Connor was cleared is odd. Every case will have differences and two wrongs don't make a right.
If the person who is tried for shoplifting before me gets off because the jury make a bad call should I expect to get off? Any disciplinary system that is forced to duplicate its weakest decisions will be destined to fail.
Ally McCoist fumed that the SFA had labelled his player a "cheat."
Well, yes, they had. Because that's what diving is. Cheating. They thought he'd dived so they punished him. I trust McCoist will avoid making any judgements about bad decisions that go against his team this season if the opposing manager protests that the player in question isn't a cheat.
We rage against the SFA for being an organisation of dinosaurs. Then we rage against them when they try and modernise.
That will lead us to an ungovernable game.
Will the new system be perfect? Of course it won't. That such decisions still rely on people to interpret events will lead to some differences in opinion.
Football's imperfect like that. That used to be part of its charm.
> Why a two game ban when a dive penalised in a game merits only a yellow card?
A dive caught in a game doesn't affect the outcome of the match. By deceiving the referee, and it's my opinion that Aluko was guilty of that, he won Rangers a penalty that might - not definitely but perhaps - have denied Dunfermline the chance to get something from the game.
Seems fair enough - although it does Dunfermline bugger all good - that his retrospective punishment should reflect that.
> As ever the focus seems to be on the SFA and the referee.
I would ask why Steve Conroy - and I suspected from watching it that his clear view may have been obstructed by Martin Hardie - didn't take a bit more time, perhaps consult with his linesman, before making the call.
Often, one feels, it would do our referees no harm if they just calmed down a bit and bought themselves a few seconds of composure.
But it's the players that dive. The idea - put around by any number of pundits - that it's part of the game and happens everywhere is wearing thin.
It's cheating. If players don't like being called cheats they should stop cheating.
Posted by Unknown at 00:53 11 comments
Labels: diving, Garry O'Connor, Hibs, Rangers, SFA, SFA Disciplinary Committee, Sone Aluko
How We Used To Read
Browsing second hand book shops I often get pangs of nostalgia when I come across books I recognise from the dim and distant days of my childhood.
Often these books involve football.
My knowledge of today's children's literature is limited. But 20 or 25 years ago there seemed a proliferation of books that used football as a central hook to draw readers in.
It was, of course, an attempt to turn young boys into readers. Was it successful?
For some of us perhaps it was.
But football has changed massively in the last 20-odd years. And so, I suspect, has childhood.
Have our fictional footballing heroes, the ragbag collection of underdogs, unlikely romantic leads and unorthodox midfield maestros, stood the test of time?
Time to find out. And for me to be the weird guy sat on the Edinburgh to Glasgow train reading out of print books that I'm a good 20 years too old for.
All My Men by Bernard Ashley
In a bleak Essex town in the bleak 1970s, our hero, Paul Daines, faces a bleak future.
Uprooted from London he is an alien in a strange, unwelcoming place. His parents are chasing a dream, they've left him in a nightmare of dislocation and loneliness.
Football, then, will be his salvation.
A simple enough tale of soccer exploits providing a path to redemption, acceptance and contentment?
That would be the expected narrative. But Bernard Ashley throws the reader a curve ball.
Redemption and happiness lies not in football but in the love of - or at least some hand holding with - a good woman, the friendship of what we might now call the class geek and an act of airborne heroism during World War Two.
You'd be forgiven for not seeing that coming. Judging a book by its cover has always been the last word in foolhardiness.
To prosper on the football field Paul must win over Billy Richardson. But Billy is the class bully, a red tracksuited grotesque who dominates the playground thanks to his imposing size and the stupidity of his cohorts. It was ever thus.
Paul can't help but compare the new top-dog in his life with the old one. In London Paul's sun-king was Simon Tulip.
Tulip, we're given to understand, inspired his disciples by example not by fear, creating what Paul recalls as Utopia but actually seems to have been more of a benign dictatorship.
Hindsight allows to see Tulip and Richardson as the yin and yang of a prototype John Terry. One the snarling bully with his henchmen cowering in his wake, the other the man of inpirational destiny leading his troops to greatness with an odd rallying cry of "all my men."
They sound, frankly, like a pair of arseholes.
But poor Paul can't see this. He needs to be one of Tulip's men again. In the absence of the real thing that means becoming one of Richardson's men.
This, as is the nature of such things, leads Paul to give up the chance of friendship with fellow new boy Arthur Little and carry out what must be one of the most dramatic thefts of a large box of After Eights ever committed to paper.
He seems to be getting somewhere. We're even treated to the book's most sustained football action:
"The boy on the left centred the ball, his Wellingtons lifting it high, just the sort of centre a goalkeeper and a centre-forward would have to contest; and before either Billy or Paul had time to think about it the ball was dipping towards them and they were both moving forward and jumping.
"Paul had taken off fractionally before Billy in a bid to outjump him, and his head met the falling ball a split second before Billy's reaching fingertips, arching it in a high lob over Billy to bounce cleanly against the wall in the centre of the goal.
"The elation Paul felt was hard to define. It was probably the goal that made his stomach tingle with a warm pleasure, for even in a pick up game in the playground a goal is a goal; but it could have been the boy's silence after the hardness of the knock, the mutual acceptance of the tumble, the strange feeling of sharing an experience which a sporting tussle brings."
Do you still see boys playing football in their wellies in British playgrounds?
What respect does this brave goal bring Paul? None. It brings him a decomposing pigeon through his parents' letterbox.
Alone and miserable, Paul needs to be saved. There is a willing list of volunteers.
There's his classmate Lorraine who teaches him that love is more important than football. She also inspires a rhapsody about the beauty of arms that might just get away with being sweet at Paul's age but could quickly turn into something of a fetish.
There's his teacher, herself new to the school, who needs Paul to succeed so she can prove her value. There's the urbane headmaster offering quiet encouragement - and nothing ages this book like the heidie smoking in his office in front of the pupils.
There's Arthur's grandfather - if indeed it is his grandfather, we're left to guess - who shows him that bygones can be bygones and forgiveness is a true sign of strength.
And so we reach our denouement with Paul, Arthur and Lorraine, supported by her friend Rita, using a football pitch for his redemption.
Not by playing football but by re-enacting that moment of Second World War heroism - the proximity of such wartime experiences being another sign of the book's vintage.
And in chasing the bully Richardson:
"Come out you great pilk or I'm bloody coming in. Come out! Come out and fight!"
Football, Ashley suggests, is but a game. Acceptance and contentment lies in schoolwork and friendship. And in threatening your enemies with physical violence.
A lesson for the ages.
All My Men by Bernard Ashley, first published 1977.
Want to see a book you remember featured? Give me the name and I'll try to track it down.
Labels: All My Men, Bernard Ashley, Football Books
Scottish Football and Independence
At some point in the not too distant future the seemingly never ending round of discussions on the ifs, buts and polls are going to turn into the real thing.
The SNP government in Scotland will unleash the referendum campaign proper.
The Scottish Football Blog has its own views on Scottish independence.
And, for now, I'm going to keep those views to myself.
But I am interested to know how the referendum and the prospect of a referendum will affect the national sport.
It might, of course, have no impact whatsover.
The SNP's "pocket guide to independence" booklet appears not to carry any mention of sport. That strikes me as a notable omission.
What of the ninety minute nationalist? Has that phenomenon faded away with the muting of the Hampden roar?
Or could the 2014 World Cup still influence a referendum campaign the way, as is often persuasively argued, the ill-fated 1978 World Cup experience influenced the devolution referendum of 1979?
Could Craig Levein's qualification dossier hold the key to unlocking Scotland's political destiny? Could Mr Levein still prove himself an unlikely "Father of the Nation"?
Scottish football has problems. Solving those problems requires clear thinking and a long term commitment to change.
It also requires money. And that means funding, particularly of local, grassroots projects.
Would independence close existing sources of funding? Would it open up others?
There are far bigger reasons than fitba' for people to get engaged with the debate on independence.
There are far more pressing issues for politicians on both sides of the coming campaign to be grilled on.
But football continues to play a part in Scottish society. Perhaps not always a positive part, but the game has made a rich contribution to society and, to some extent, the modern idea of "Scottish-ness."
That means some discussion of football deserves to be framed within the context of the wider referendum debate.
To make some small contribution to that I'll offer the Scottish Football Blog as a platform to all sides of the Yes/No/(Devo Max)Maybe argument.
Whatever your affiliations, whatever your views and whatever you want to write (within the confines of good taste and legality) share your views on how the result of the independence referendum will harm/help/barely impact Scottish football.
We know that the referendum will be held in the second half of this parliament.
So hopefully this can become a regular (or at least semi-regular) theme in the run up to, and during, the referendum campaign.
Use the contact page or email to get in touch and share your views.
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Labels: Football, independence, referendum, Scotland, Scottish politics, SNP
Friday Night Football: Short and Sweet?
To Motherwell and part two of the great SPL Friday night football experiment.
Pity poor Motherwell. If you want to try something (sort of) new and attract the punters with cheap tickets it's probably essential that you get ninety minutes played.
Unfortunately this Friday night project was abbreviated.
The right call: there were obviously concerns - and the whiff of burning - developing during the first half.
An extended half time hadn't allayed those fears so the authorities made the decision to call a halt.
Safety is paramount. We're now in an era where we can largely travel to football stadiums with little fear.
As Stuart McCall said last night that hasn't always been the case. Sometimes health and safety decisions are made in our best interests.
One major flaw. The lack of a properly functioning tannoy system in the away end left the Hibs fans to draw their own conclusions about what was happening.
The sight of the ball boys disappearing down the tunnel and Motherwell fans heading to the exits told us what we needed to know.
In a real emergency that might pose a problem. A needless problem that could be easily solved.
We were left in the hands of the matchday stewards.
A doughty and oft maligned breed, the football steward. But a breed apart nonetheless.
For the steward a stern countenance and high visibility apparel takes the place of polite conversation.
All of which added to the breakdown in communication that possibly amplified what I gather were some unsavoury scenes as people tried to get their hands on tickets for the rescheduled match.
There was much to admire about the way Motherwell approached last night's game but the handling of the abandonment left scope for improvement.
The game itself?
This was a squally, miserable night in Lanarkshire.
Hibs, led for the first time by new manager Pat Fenlon, looked more determined, kept their shape better and set out to cope in defence and use Ivan Sproule, Leigh Griffiths and Isaiah Osbourne to support Garry O'Connor.
It worked. With more positivity evident in the support there was more desire and simple hard work on the pitch. They kept Motherwell pretty much contained and O'Connor was on hand to convert their chance when it came.
So far so good. Even the warm up looked more impressive than it has in recent weeks.
A glimpse of a new beginning? I'll not get carried away. Yet.
Motherwell seemed more hampered by the wind than Hibs and struggled to break through the defence and seemed unsettled by the constant harrying of the scampering Lewis Stevenson and David Wotherspoon.
Both teams though will have been disappointed to be denied a second half.
And what of this Friday night frenzy?
The ten and five pound admission prices and various other schemes Motherwell had in place apparently did the job.
Over 7000 braved the cold to take in the game.
That compares nicely with the 5172 and 4202 who turned up for Hibs' two visits to Fir Park last season.
As far as I can tell it's the first time this fixture has attracted over 7000 supporters since October 2007.
An unqualified, rip-roaring success?
Well. Aye and naw.
The prices clearly offered a motivation to attend but Motherwell will need to decide if they brought in big enough numbers to make it an experiment that should be repeated.
The travelling support of 1500 proved that Edinburgh to Motherwell is not too far to travel on a Friday evening. But that number was surely inflated by the Fenlon factor.
Anecdotally a lot of people seemed to suggest that they much preferred making the trip on a Friday evening than, say, for a 12.15 kick off on a Sunday afternoon.
But Friday night football was never going to slay the television scheduling monster.
We can say that Aberdeen v Dunfermline and Motherwell v Hibs have drawn over 15,000 fans for the two Friday night games.
If the clubs consider that to be a success then they have to announce a longer term experiment.
I don't think ad-hoc games, particularly with the massive variable of Motherwell's pricing ploy, can give us a decent guide as to the longer term sustainability of Friday night football.
Persuading Sky or ESPN to schedule some Friday night TV games - whispers suggest this might be in the offing - would also give a better idea of how Friday night compares to Saturday or Sunday lunchtime.
There might be a germ of a good idea here. And there's probably enough evidence to suggest that it is worth exploring more.
But two games do not a nation of Friday night converts make.
Investigate it properly. And while you're at take a look at this equation:
Lower prices = bigger crowds.
That might just be more important than when you kick off.
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Labels: Hibs, Motherwell, Scottish football Friday kick offs, SPL
Hibs: Friday Night Frights
Pat Fenlon finds himself in the Hibernian trenches for the first time this evening.
Another SPL Friday night experiment as Hibs take a trip to Motherwell.
Perhaps I'm guilty of misreading his intent but my impression was that Henry McLeish had suggested Friday night football as a way of reinvigorating the lower leagues.
But the SPL seem to have claimed it as their own. And Motherwelll, ticket prices dropped and curry offers abounding, are clearly keen that tonight is a success.
First though, a look at a couple of Hibs' more recent Friday night games.
Hibernian 0 v Celtic 0
Celtic in a Scottish Cup semi final at Ibrox. On a Friday night.
That would not happen today. I don't know if that's a reflection of regression across society or increased sophistication in policing methods.
Either way it seems this is one Friday night experiment that we will not see again.
40,950 trooped to Govan to see this stalemate.
Celtic had a chance to win it when Pat McGinlay fouled Paul McStay outside the penalty box. A foul that led referee John Robwbotham to award a penalty kick.
Andy Walker took the kick, Jim Leighton made the save and justice was done.
In truth Celtic had dominated but a doughty Hibs defence kept the fixture alive. I've got a feeling that Graham Mitchell ended this game with his head swathed in hastily applied bandages.
It was that sort of night: bravery and commitment above flair and attacking football for Hibs.
The following day Airdrie beat Hearts in the other semi final. The next Tuesday Hibs and Celtic were at Ibrox again.
Celtic won that one 3-1 and went on to beat Airdrie in the final.
The teams:
Hibernian: Leighton, Miller, Mitchell, McGinlay, Tweed, Millen, Harper, Farrell, Wright, Jackson, O'Neill
Celtic: Bonner, Boyd, McKinlay, Vata, O'Neil, Grant, McLaughlin, McStay, Van Hooijdonk (Falconer, 42min), Walker, Collins.
Kilmarnock 4 v 2 Hibs
In 1996 the Scottish Premier Division still enjoyed occasional occupancy of Sky's much coveted Friday evening slot.
So it was that almost 11,000 fans filled into Rugby Park to see new signing John Hughes make his debut for Hibs.
Hughes was signed by Jocky Scott, then navigating his way through an underwhelming stint as caretaker manager following the departure of Alex Miller.
Hibs had suffered a 4-0 tonking against Celtic before this one and were no doubt looking to Hughes to fill some gaping defensive holes.
He didn't quite manage it.
An up and coming young midfield maestro was also in the Hibs team. A chap called Ray Wilkins.
John Henry, Jim McIntyre and former Hibs player Paul Wright did the damage for Kilmarnock.
Andy Dow and Kevin Harper got the goals for Hibs.
This tranche of Friday night game actually began for Hibs back in January 1995.
Oddly enough on Friday the 13th.
Fir Park was again the destination.
It finished 0-0 in front of 6724 supporters.
So there we have it, the SPL's brand new Friday night experiment is not that new.
And so far, for Hibs at least, not that successful.
I travel, as ever, in hope...
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A Feminist Still: Documentary Form and Untimely Critique in Sheba Chhachhi's Protest Photography
Lakshmi Padmanabhan
Camera Obscura (2020) 35 (3 (105)): iv–29.
Lakshmi Padmanabhan; A Feminist Still: Documentary Form and Untimely Critique in Sheba Chhachhi's Protest Photography. Camera Obscura 1 December 2020; 35 (3 (105)): iv–29. doi: https://doi.org/10.1215/02705346-8631535
What can photographic form teach us about feminist historiography? Through close readings of photographs by visual artist and documentary photographer Sheba Chhachhi, who documented the struggle for women's rights in India from the 1980s onward, this article outlines the political stakes of documentary photography's formal conventions. First, it analyzes candid snapshots of recent protests for women's rights in India, focusing on an iconic photograph by Chhachhi of Satyarani Chadha, a community organizer and women's rights activist, at a rally in New Delhi in 1980. It attends to the way in which such photographs turn personal scenes of mourning into collective memorials to militancy, even as they embalm their subjects in a state of temporal paralysis and strip them of their individual history. It contrasts these snapshots to Chhachhi's collaborative portrait of Chadha from 1990, a "feminist still" that deploys formal conventions of stillness to stage temporal encounters between potential histories and unrealized futures. Throughout, the article returns to the untimeliness of Chhachhi's photography, both in the multiple temporalities opened up within the image and in its avant-garde critique of feminist politics through experiments with photographic form.
photography, documentary, postcolonialism, protest, India
Kashmir: A Stone's Throw, an Endless Wait
Richard Mosse's Enclave : Dream of the Celt
Looking Back at the Phenomenocene: On the Road, Again, with Masao Miyoshi's Photography
Property, Dispossession, and Citizenship in Turkey; Or, the History of the Gezi Uprising Starts in the Surp Hagop Armenian Cemetery
The Vancouver Carts A Brief Mémoire
Caught Looking Susan Meiselas's Carnival Strippers (2008)
The Ghosts of Documentary (2012)
Metrics of the Global Sovereign Numbers and Stories in Global Health | {
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\section{Introduction}
Oblivious transfer (OT) \cite{qbc9,1-2OT} is known to be an essential
building block for two-party and multi-party protocols \cite{qi139}.
However, unconditionally secure OT was shown to be impossible even in
quantum cryptography, because the adversary can always cheat with the
so-called honest-but-curious attack \cite{qi499,qi677,qi725,qi797,qbc14}. To
evade the problem, the concept \textquotedblleft weak OT\textquotedblright\
was proposed recently \cite{qbc88}, in which the security goals of OT are
slightly modified, so that the honest-but-curious attack is no longer
considered a successful cheating. Even so, it was found that a security
bound exists for weak OT \cite{qbc88}, thus it cannot be unconditionally
secure either.
Nevertheless, we will point out below that the cheating strategy to weak OT
has its own limitation too. By making use of this limitation, we can build
quantum weak OT protocols which will violate the existing security bound
when the cheater is restricted to individual measurements as well as some
limited collective attacks. Therefore, while in principle the security bound
still applies to our protocols, in practice the attack will be very
difficult to be implemented.
Note that previously there was already a quantum OT protocol \cite{qi51}
which was considered secure against individual measurements \cite{qi138}.
However, the protocol calls for quantum bit commitment as a building block.
Thus its security is unreliable, as it is widely believed \cite{qi24,qi23}
that unconditionally secure quantum bit commitment does not exist.
In the next section, we will review the definitions of OT and weak OT, and
the existing security bound of the latter. Our protocol will be proposed in
Sect. III. Section IV is dedicated to the security analysis. We will show
why the security bound still applies in principle. On the other hand, we
will elaborate how to reach the maximal violation of the bound when only
individual measurements are allowed. It will also be shown that the bound
can still be violated for limited collective attacks. Some ideas on further
improvement of our protocol will be discussed in Sect. V. Finally, in Sect.
VI we summarize the result, and explain why it is important in practice to
find a secure protocol against individual measurements.
\section{Definitions and the security bound}
There are many variations of OT. The most well-known ones are all-or-nothing
OT \cite{qbc9} and one-out-of-two OT \cite{1-2OT}. Here we are interested in
the latter, which is defined as follows \cite{qi140}.
\bigskip
\textit{One-out-of-two Oblivious Transfer}
(i) Alice knows two bits $x_{0}$ and $x_{1}$.
(ii) Bob gets bit $x_{b}$ and not $x_{\bar{b}}$ with $Pr(b=0)=Pr(b=1)=1/2$.
(Here $\bar{b}$\ denotes the bit-compliment of $b$.)
(iii) Bob knows which of $x_{0}$ or $x_{1}$ he got.
(iv) Alice does not know which $x_{b}$ Bob got.
\bigskip
More rigorously, this definition indicates that a secure protocol should
guarantee that at the end of the process, Bob should get $x_{b}$ with
reliability $100\%$,\ i.e., the value he decoded matches Alice's actual
input with certainty. Meanwhile, the amount of information he gains on $x_
\bar{b}}$ should be arbitrarily close to zero, so that he has to guess $x_
\bar{b}}$ by himself, which results in a reliability $50\%$ for $x_{\bar{b}}$
since his guess stands a probability $1/2$ to be correct. However, as
pointed out in \cite{HeJPA}, in the literature there is the lack of a
self-consistent definition of OT specifically made for the quantum case.
This is because with quantum methods, it is possible that Bob may accept a
lower reliability of learning $x_{b}$, so that the reliability for $x_{\bar{
}}$ can be significantly raised. This is exactly what the honest-but-curious
attack \cite{qi499,qi677,qi725,qi797} achieves. In the above definition it
is vague whether such a result is considered as successful cheating, making
it hard to discuss the security of OT protocols in a precise way.
To mend the problem, weak OT is proposed \cite{qbc88}, with an improved
definition on Bob's cheating. Define the symbols
$P_{Alice}^{\ast }$: The maximum probability with which cheating-Alice can
get honest-Bob's choice bit $b$ and honest-Bob does not abort.
$P_{Bob}^{\ast }$: The maximum over $b\in \{0,1\}$ of the probability with
which cheating-Bob can get $x_{\bar{b}}$\ given that he gets $x_{b}$\ with
certainty and honest-Alice does not abort.
For every protocol there will always be $P_{Alice}^{\ast },P_{Bob}^{\ast
}\geq 1/2$, as a cheating party can do no worse than a random guess. Then
weak OT is defined as a kind of one-out-of-two OT which requires security
only against cheating-Bob who gets one of honest-Alice's bits with certainty.
Note that the names \textquotedblleft Alice\textquotedblright\ and
\textquotedblleft Bob\textquotedblright\ were used reversely in \cite{qbc88
, comparing with the literature on QOT \cit
{qbc9,qi139,qi499,qi677,qi725,qi797,qbc14,qi51,qi138,qi140,HeJPA,HeQOT,qi135
. Here we follow the literature and use the names in the above way.
It was proven \cite{qbc88} that the optimal security bound for any quantum
weak OT protocol i
\begin{equation}
2P_{Alice}^{\ast }+P_{Bob}^{\ast }\geq 2,
\end{equation
from which it follows that one of the two parties must be able to cheat with
probability at least $2/3$.
In brief, Ref. \cite{qbc88} obtained this bound with the following method.
First, consider Bob's cheating. Let $\rho _{b,x_{0},x_{1}}$ denote the
reduced state of his portion of the system. Since a weak OT protocol should
allow honest-Bob to learn $x_{b}$\ with certainty, there must be a
non-destructive measurement that enables him to do so without disturbing the
system. After Bob learned $x_{b}$\ with this measurement, his system will
still remain in the state $\rho _{b,x_{0},x_{1}}$. To gain some information
on the other bit $x_{\bar{b}}$, he performs the Helstrom measurement to
optimally distinguish the two states corresponding to $x_{\bar{b}}=0$\ and
x_{\bar{b}}=1$, respectively. Thus his cheating can be successful with
probabilit
\begin{equation}
P_{Bob}^{\ast }\geq \frac{1}{2}+\frac{1}{8}\Delta , \label{qbc88-pb}
\end{equation
wher
\begin{equation}
\Delta \equiv \frac{1}{2}(\sum\limits_{x_{0}\in \{0,1\}}\left\Vert \rho
_{0,x_{0},0}-\rho _{0,x_{0},1}\right\Vert _{Tr}+\sum\limits_{x_{1}\in
\{0,1\}}\left\Vert \rho _{1,0,x_{1}}-\rho _{1,1,x_{1}}\right\Vert _{Tr}).
\end{equation
Secondly, consider Alice's cheating. She implements a uniform superposition
over $x_{0}$, $x_{1}$\ of honest strategies by introducing two additional
private qubits for storing the values of $x_{0}$ and $x_{1}$. Then she
applies the controlled-unitary operation
\begin{equation}
controlled-U_{0}:\left\vert \psi _{1,1,x_{1}}\right\rangle \left\vert
1\right\rangle \left\vert x_{1}\right\rangle \rightarrow (I_{A}\otimes
U_{0,x_{1}})\left\vert \psi _{1,1,x_{1}}\right\rangle \left\vert
1\right\rangle \left\vert x_{1}\right\rangle
\end{equation
an
\begin{equation}
controlled-U_{1}:\left\vert \psi _{0,x_{0},1}\right\rangle \left\vert
x_{0}\right\rangle \left\vert 1\right\rangle \rightarrow (I_{A}\otimes
U_{1,x_{0}})\left\vert \psi _{0,x_{0},1}\right\rangle \left\vert
x_{0}\right\rangle \left\vert 1\right\rangle
\end{equation
for $x_{1}\in \{0,1\}$\ and $x_{0}\in \{0,1\}$, respectively, where
U_{0,x_{1}}$ and $U_{1,x_{0}}$\ satisf
\begin{eqnarray}
F(\rho _{1,0,x_{1}},\rho _{1,1,x_{1}}) &=&\left\langle \psi
_{1,0,x_{1}}\right\vert (I_{A}\otimes U_{0,x_{1}})\left\vert \psi
_{1,1,x_{1}}\right\rangle , \nonumber \\
F(\rho _{0,x_{0},0},\rho _{0,x_{0},1}) &=&\left\langle \psi
_{0,x_{0},0}\right\vert (I_{A}\otimes U_{1,x_{0}})\left\vert \psi
_{0,x_{0},1}\right\rangle .
\end{eqnarray
Here $F(\rho ,\xi )\equiv \left\Vert \sqrt{\rho }\sqrt{\xi }\right\Vert
_{Tr} $\ is the fidelity between $\rho $\ and $\xi $. Then the successful
probability for her cheating was shown \cite{qbc88} to b
\begin{equation}
P_{Alice}^{\ast }\geq \frac{1}{2}+\frac{1}{16}F, \label{qbc88-pa}
\end{equation
wher
\begin{equation}
F\equiv \sum\limits_{x_{0}\in \{0,1\}}F(\rho _{0,x_{0},0},\rho
_{0,x_{0},1})+\sum\limits_{x_{1}\in \{0,1\}}F(\rho _{1,0,x_{1}},\rho
_{1,1,x_{1}}).
\end{equation
Combining the Fuchs-van de Graaf inequalitie
\begin{equation}
1-\frac{1}{2}\left\Vert \rho -\xi \right\Vert _{Tr}\leq F(\rho ,\xi )\leq
\sqrt{1-\frac{1}{4}\left\Vert \rho -\xi \right\Vert _{Tr}^{2}}
\end{equation
with equations (\ref{qbc88-pb}) and (\ref{qbc88-pa}), the security bound
2P_{Alice}^{\ast }+P_{Bob}^{\ast }\geq 2$\ is finally obtained.
This bound was also shown to be optimal, as Ref. \cite{qbc88} exhibited a
family of protocols whose cheating probabilities can be made arbitrarily
close to any point on the $P_{Alice}^{\ast }$ versus $P_{Bob}^{\ast }$\
tradeoff curve.
\section{The protocol}
\subsection{Limitation of the cheating strategy in existing protocols}
Intriguingly, while the security bound $2P_{Alice}^{\ast }+P_{Bob}^{\ast
}\geq 2$\ indicates that in a protocol where Bob cannot cheat (i.e.,
P_{Bob}^{\ast }=1/2$), Alice can guess Bob's choice $b$ at least with the
probability $P_{Alice}^{\ast }=3/4$, we must note that her cheating strategy
has a serious drawback. That is, once Alice applies the cheating, she will
not be able to determine the values of $x_{0}$, $x_{1}$. For example,
consider the Chailloux-Kerenidis-Sikora (CKS)\ protocol proposed in Sect. 4
of \cite{qbc14} (also presented in Sect. 3.2 of \cite{qbc88} with reverse
usage of the names \textquotedblleft Alice\textquotedblright\ and
\textquotedblleft Bob\textquotedblright ), as described below.
\bigskip
\textit{The CKS protocol}
1. Bob randomly chooses $b\in \{0,1\}$ and prepares the two-qutrit state
\left\vert \phi _{b}\right\rangle =(\left\vert bb\right\rangle +\left\vert
22\right\rangle )/\sqrt{2}$. He sends one of the qutrits to Alice.
2. Alice chooses $x_{0},x_{1}\in \{0,1\}$ and applies the unitary
transformation $\left\vert 0\right\rangle \rightarrow (-1)^{x_{0}}\left\vert
0\right\rangle $, $\left\vert 1\right\rangle \rightarrow
(-1)^{x_{1}}\left\vert 1\right\rangle $, $\left\vert 2\right\rangle
\rightarrow \left\vert 2\right\rangle $ on Bob's qutrit.
3. Alice returns the qutrit to Bob who now has the state $\left\vert \psi
_{b}\right\rangle =[(-1)^{x_{b}}\left\vert bb\right\rangle +\left\vert
22\right\rangle ]/\sqrt{2}$.
4. Bob performs the measurement $\{\Pi _{0}=\left\vert \phi
_{b}\right\rangle \left\langle \phi _{b}\right\vert ,\Pi _{1}=\left\vert
\phi _{b}^{\prime }\right\rangle \left\langle \phi _{b}^{\prime }\right\vert
,I-\Pi _{0}-\Pi _{1}\}$\ on the state $\left\vert \psi _{b}\right\rangle $,
where $\left\vert \phi _{b}^{\prime }\right\rangle =(\left\vert
bb\right\rangle -\left\vert 22\right\rangle )/\sqrt{2}$.
5. If the outcome is $\Pi _{0}$ then Bob learns with certainty that $x_{b}=0
, if it is $\Pi _{1}$ then $x_{b}=1$, otherwise he aborts.
\bigskip
This protocol can reach $P_{Bob}^{\ast }=1/2$, but it is insecure against
Alice's individual attacks. As shown in Sect. 4 of \cite{qbc14}, Alice's
optimal cheating strategy is simply to measure the qutrit she received in
step 2 using the computational basis. If she gets outcome $\left\vert
0\right\rangle $ ($\left\vert 1\right\rangle $) then she knows with
certainty that $b=0$ ($b=1$). If she gets outcome $\left\vert 2\right\rangle
$ then she guesses the value of $b$. Therefore on average, Alice can learn
Bob's $b$ correctly with the probability $P_{Alice}^{\ast }=3/4$. After the
measurement she returns the measured qutrit to Bob. Then Bob's state will be
either $\left\vert bb\right\rangle $ or $\left\vert 22\right\rangle $. With
any of these two states, the outcome of Bob's measurement in step 4 will
always be either $\Pi _{0}$ or $\Pi _{1}$. Hence he will never abort, so
that Alice's cheating cannot be detected at all.
However, we can see that Alice cannot control, nor she can learn what will
be the actual outcome of Bob's measurement in step 4, because $\left\vert
bb\right\rangle $ and $\left\vert 22\right\rangle $ can both be projected as
$\Pi _{0}$ or $\Pi _{1}$. As a result, at the end of the protocol Bob gets a
bit $x_{b}$, but its value is unknown to Alice. That is, once
dishonest-Alice gains the information on $b$, she loses the information on
x_{b}$. Now we prove that this result is general for any Alice's cheating
strategy.
\bigskip
\textbf{Theorem 1}: In the CKS protocol, Alice cannot learn $x_{b}$ with
reliability $1$ and gain a non-trivial amount of information on $b$
simultaneously, while escaping Bob's detection with probability $1$.
\textbf{Proof:} Let $\alpha $ denote the ancillary system that
dishonest-Alice introduced for her cheating, system $\beta $ denote the
qutrit that she received and then returns to Bob, and system $\beta ^{\prime
}$ denote the qutrit that Bob always keeps at his side. To ensure that Bob
will never abort in step 5 so that Alice can pass Bob's detection with
probability $1$, the state of $\beta \otimes \beta ^{\prime }$ at this stage
must be completely contained in the Hilbert space supported by $\left\vert
\phi _{b}\right\rangle _{\beta \beta ^{\prime }}$ and $\left\vert \phi
_{b}^{\prime }\right\rangle _{\beta \beta ^{\prime }}$. Therefore, for any
Alice's cheating strategy, at the end of step 3 the general form of the
quantum system shared by Alice and Bob can always be written a
\begin{equation}
T(\left\vert e_{ini}\right\rangle _{\alpha }\left\vert \phi
_{b}\right\rangle _{\beta \beta ^{\prime }})=\lambda _{b}^{(0)}\left\vert
e_{b}^{(0)}\right\rangle _{\alpha }\left\vert \phi _{b}\right\rangle _{\beta
\beta ^{\prime }}+\lambda _{b}^{(1)}\left\vert e_{b}^{(1)}\right\rangle
_{\alpha }\left\vert \phi _{b}^{\prime }\right\rangle _{\beta \beta ^{\prime
}}, \label{resultant2}
\end{equation
for $b=0,1$, with $\left\vert e_{ini}\right\rangle _{\alpha }$\ ($\left\vert
e_{b}^{(0)}\right\rangle _{\alpha }$ and $\left\vert
e_{b}^{(1)}\right\rangle _{\alpha }$) being the normalized initial (final)
state(s) of $\alpha $, $\left\vert \lambda _{b}^{(0)}\right\vert
^{2}+\left\vert \lambda _{b}^{(1)}\right\vert ^{2}=1$, and $T$\ is the
operator that Alice applies for her cheating. Also, in step (4) of the
protocol, Bob learns that $x_{b}=0$ ($x_{b}=1$) if he gets $\left\vert \phi
_{b}\right\rangle _{\beta \beta ^{\prime }}$\ ($\left\vert \phi _{b}^{\prime
}\right\rangle _{\beta \beta ^{\prime }}$). Therefore, if Alice wants to be
able to learn $x_{b}$ with reliability $1$, she has to choose an operation
T $ which can ensure that $\left\vert e_{b}^{(0)}\right\rangle _{\alpha }$
and $\left\vert e_{b}^{(1)}\right\rangle _{\alpha }$\ are orthogonal.
By substituting $\left\vert \phi _{b}\right\rangle _{\beta \beta ^{\prime
}}=(\left\vert bb\right\rangle _{\beta \beta ^{\prime }}+\left\vert
22\right\rangle _{\beta \beta ^{\prime }})/\sqrt{2}$ and $\left\vert \phi
_{b}^{\prime }\right\rangle _{\beta \beta ^{\prime }}=(\left\vert
bb\right\rangle _{\beta \beta ^{\prime }}-\left\vert 22\right\rangle _{\beta
\beta ^{\prime }})/\sqrt{2}$ into equation (\ref{resultant2}), we can
rewrite it a
\begin{equation}
T(\left\vert e_{ini}\right\rangle _{\alpha }\left\vert \phi
_{b}\right\rangle _{\beta \beta ^{\prime }})=(\left\vert f_{b}\right\rangle
_{\alpha }\left\vert bb\right\rangle _{\beta \beta ^{\prime }}+\left\vert
f_{b}^{\prime }\right\rangle _{\alpha }\left\vert 22\right\rangle _{\beta
\beta ^{\prime }})/\sqrt{2}, \label{resultant}
\end{equation
wher
\begin{eqnarray}
\left\vert f_{b}\right\rangle _{\alpha } &\equiv &\lambda
_{b}^{(0)}\left\vert e_{b}^{(0)}\right\rangle _{\alpha }+\lambda
_{b}^{(1)}\left\vert e_{b}^{(1)}\right\rangle _{\alpha }, \nonumber \\
\left\vert f_{b}^{\prime }\right\rangle _{\alpha } &\equiv &\lambda
_{b}^{(0)}\left\vert e_{b}^{(0)}\right\rangle _{\alpha }-\lambda
_{b}^{(1)}\left\vert e_{b}^{(1)}\right\rangle _{\alpha }, \label{fbx}
\end{eqnarray
To gain a non-trivial amount of information on $b$, equation (\ref{resultant
) indicates that Alice needs to distinguish the reduced density matrice
\begin{equation}
\rho _{b=0}\equiv (\left\vert f_{0}\right\rangle _{\alpha }\left\langle
f_{0}\right\vert +\left\vert f_{0}^{\prime }\right\rangle _{\alpha
}\left\langle f_{0}^{\prime }\right\vert )/2 \label{rho1}
\end{equation
an
\begin{equation}
\rho _{b=1}\equiv (\left\vert f_{1}\right\rangle _{\alpha }\left\langle
f_{1}\right\vert +\left\vert f_{1}^{\prime }\right\rangle _{\alpha
}\left\langle f_{1}^{\prime }\right\vert )/2. \label{rho2}
\end{equation
While there could exist an operation $T$, which can ensure $\rho _{b=0}\neq
\rho _{b=1}$ before Alice obtains $x_{b}$, we will show below that after
Alice performed any operation $M$ that can make her learn $x_{b}$ with
reliability $1$, $\rho _{b=0}$ and $\rho _{b=1}$ will become equal to each
other, so that they cannot be distinguished any more.
An important fact is that qutrit $\beta ^{\prime }$ is always kept at Bob's
side, so that it remains unchanged under Alice operation $T$. Thus we can
write $T=U_{\alpha \beta }\otimes I_{\beta ^{\prime }}$, where $U_{\alpha
\beta }$ applies on systems $\alpha $ and $\beta $ only, while $I_{\beta
^{\prime }}$\ is the identity operator on $\beta ^{\prime }$. Denotin
\begin{eqnarray}
U_{\alpha \beta }(\left\vert e_{ini}\right\rangle _{\alpha }\left\vert
0\right\rangle _{\beta }) &=&\left\vert \Psi _{0}\right\rangle _{\alpha
\beta }, \nonumber \\
U_{\alpha \beta }(\left\vert e_{ini}\right\rangle _{\alpha }\left\vert
1\right\rangle _{\beta }) &=&\left\vert \Psi _{1}\right\rangle _{\alpha
\beta }, \nonumber \\
U_{\alpha \beta }(\left\vert e_{ini}\right\rangle _{\alpha }\left\vert
2\right\rangle _{\beta }) &=&\left\vert \Psi _{2}\right\rangle _{\alpha
\beta }, \label{U}
\end{eqnarray
then we have
\begin{eqnarray}
T(\left\vert e_{ini}\right\rangle _{\alpha }\left\vert \phi
_{b}\right\rangle _{\beta \beta ^{\prime }}) &=&(U_{\alpha \beta }\otimes
I_{\beta ^{\prime }})(\left\vert e_{ini}\right\rangle _{\alpha }(\left\vert
bb\right\rangle _{\beta \beta ^{\prime }}+\left\vert 22\right\rangle _{\beta
\beta ^{\prime }})/\sqrt{2}) \nonumber \\
&=&(\left\vert \Psi _{b}\right\rangle _{\alpha \beta }\left\vert
b\right\rangle _{\beta ^{\prime }}+\left\vert \Psi _{2}\right\rangle
_{\alpha \beta }\left\vert 2\right\rangle _{\beta ^{\prime }})/\sqrt{2}).
\end{eqnarray
Comparing with equation (\ref{resultant}), we yiel
\begin{eqnarray}
\left\vert \Psi _{b}\right\rangle _{\alpha \beta } &=&\left\vert
f_{b}\right\rangle _{\alpha }\left\vert b\right\rangle _{\beta }, \nonumber
\\
\left\vert \Psi _{2}\right\rangle _{\alpha \beta } &=&\left\vert
f_{b}^{\prime }\right\rangle _{\alpha }\left\vert 2\right\rangle _{\beta }.
\end{eqnarray
The latter indicates that $\left\vert f_{b}^{\prime }\right\rangle _{\alpha
} $ does not depend on $b$, i.e.
\begin{equation}
\left\vert f_{0}^{\prime }\right\rangle _{\alpha }=\left\vert f_{1}^{\prime
}\right\rangle _{\alpha }. \label{jnt}
\end{equation
The
\begin{equation}
\left\langle f_{0}^{\prime }\right. \left\vert f_{1}^{\prime }\right\rangle
_{\alpha }=1. \label{f'f'1}
\end{equation
With equation (\ref{fbx}) we kno
\begin{eqnarray}
\left\langle f_{0}^{\prime }\right. \left\vert f_{1}^{\prime }\right\rangle
_{\alpha } &=&(\lambda _{0}^{(0)\ast }\left\langle e_{0}^{(0)}\right\vert
_{\alpha }-\lambda _{0}^{(1)\ast }\left\langle e_{0}^{(1)}\right\vert
_{\alpha })(\lambda _{1}^{(0)}\left\vert e_{1}^{(0)}\right\rangle _{\alpha
}-\lambda _{1}^{(1)}\left\vert e_{1}^{(1)}\right\rangle _{\alpha })
\nonumber \\
&=&\lambda _{0}^{(0)\ast }\lambda _{1}^{(0)}\left\langle e_{0}^{(0)}\right.
\left\vert e_{1}^{(0)}\right\rangle _{\alpha }-\lambda _{0}^{(0)\ast
}\lambda _{1}^{(1)}\left\langle e_{0}^{(0)}\right. \left\vert
e_{1}^{(1)}\right\rangle _{\alpha } \nonumber \\
&&-\lambda _{0}^{(1)\ast }\lambda _{1}^{(0)}\left\langle e_{0}^{(1)}\right.
\left\vert e_{1}^{(0)}\right\rangle _{\alpha }+\lambda _{0}^{(1)\ast
}\lambda _{1}^{(1)}\left\langle e_{0}^{(1)}\right. \left\vert
e_{1}^{(1)}\right\rangle _{\alpha } \label{f'f'}
\end{eqnarray
an
\begin{eqnarray}
\left\langle f_{0}\right. \left\vert f_{1}\right\rangle _{\alpha }
&=&(\lambda _{0}^{(0)\ast }\left\langle e_{0}^{(0)}\right\vert _{\alpha
}+\lambda _{0}^{(1)\ast }\left\langle e_{0}^{(1)}\right\vert _{\alpha
})(\lambda _{1}^{(0)}\left\vert e_{1}^{(0)}\right\rangle _{\alpha }+\lambda
_{1}^{(1)}\left\vert e_{1}^{(1)}\right\rangle _{\alpha }) \nonumber \\
&=&\lambda _{0}^{(0)\ast }\lambda _{1}^{(0)}\left\langle e_{0}^{(0)}\right.
\left\vert e_{1}^{(0)}\right\rangle _{\alpha }+\lambda _{0}^{(0)\ast
}\lambda _{1}^{(1)}\left\langle e_{0}^{(0)}\right. \left\vert
e_{1}^{(1)}\right\rangle _{\alpha } \nonumber \\
&&+\lambda _{0}^{(1)\ast }\lambda _{1}^{(0)}\left\langle e_{0}^{(1)}\right.
\left\vert e_{1}^{(0)}\right\rangle _{\alpha }+\lambda _{0}^{(1)\ast
}\lambda _{1}^{(1)}\left\langle e_{0}^{(1)}\right. \left\vert
e_{1}^{(1)}\right\rangle _{\alpha }. \label{ff}
\end{eqnarray
Now if Alice performs any operation $M$ on the state $T(\left\vert
e_{ini}\right\rangle _{\alpha }\left\vert \phi _{b}\right\rangle _{\beta
\beta ^{\prime }})$\ so that $x_{b}$ ($b=0,1$) is obtained with reliability
1$, the final state can still be written as equation (\ref{resultant2}),
except that the coefficients $\lambda _{0}^{(0)}$, $\lambda _{0}^{(1)}$,
\lambda _{1}^{(0)}$\ and $\lambda _{1}^{(1)}$\ cannot stay non-vanishing
simultaneously. Instead, one of $\lambda _{0}^{(0)}$ and $\lambda _{0}^{(1)}$
must become zero, and one of $\lambda _{1}^{(0)}$\ and $\lambda _{1}^{(1)}$\
must be zero too. In this case, we can see that in the right hand side of
either equation (\ref{f'f'}) or (\ref{ff}), only one of the coefficients
before the four terms $\left\langle e_{0}^{(0)}\right. \left\vert
e_{1}^{(0)}\right\rangle _{\alpha }$, $\left\langle e_{0}^{(0)}\right.
\left\vert e_{1}^{(1)}\right\rangle _{\alpha }$, $\left\langle
e_{0}^{(1)}\right. \left\vert e_{1}^{(0)}\right\rangle _{\alpha }$ and
\left\langle e_{0}^{(1)}\right. \left\vert e_{1}^{(1)}\right\rangle _{\alpha
}$ can remain non-vanishing. No matter which single term remains, there will
always be eithe
\begin{equation}
\left\langle f_{0}\right. \left\vert f_{1}\right\rangle _{\alpha
}=\left\langle f_{0}^{\prime }\right. \left\vert f_{1}^{\prime
}\right\rangle _{\alpha }.
\end{equation
o
\begin{equation}
\left\langle f_{0}\right. \left\vert f_{1}\right\rangle _{\alpha
}=-\left\langle f_{0}^{\prime }\right. \left\vert f_{1}^{\prime
}\right\rangle _{\alpha }.
\end{equation
Combining with equation (\ref{f'f'1}), they both giv
\begin{equation}
\left\vert f_{0}\right\rangle _{\alpha }\left\langle f_{0}\right\vert
=\left\vert f_{1}\right\rangle _{\alpha }\left\langle f_{1}\right\vert .
\end{equation
Substituting it and equation (\ref{jnt}) into equations (\ref{rho1}) and
\ref{rho2}), we finally obtai
\begin{equation}
\rho _{b=0}=\rho _{b=1}.
\end{equation
Thus they provide absolutely zero knowledge on $b$. Therefore, once Alice
performs the operation to learn $x_{b}$ with reliability $1$, she can no
longer gain any information on $b$. This ends the proof of Theorem 1.
\bigskip
The above proof does not exclude the existence of other cheating strategies,
in which Alice can learn $x_{b}$ with a reliability less than $1$, and/or
Bob may abort in step 5 with a non-vanishing probability. But this will do
no harm to our purpose, as it will be shown later in Sects. IV.B and IV.C.
In fact, besides the CKS protocol, some other QOT protocols \cit
{HeQOT,qi135} also display the same feature described in Theorem 1. Let
(3/4,1/2)$\textit{-protocol} denote any QOT protocol of this kind, i.e.,
both $P_{Alice}^{\ast }=3/4$ and $P_{Bob}^{\ast }=1/2$\ are satisfied
exactly, and Alice cannot determine $x_{b}$ with reliability $1$ once she
gain a non-trivial amount of information on $b$. It will be shown below that
though a $(3/4,1/2)$-protocol merely saturates the security bound
2P_{Alice}^{\ast }+P_{Bob}^{\ast }\geq 2$, it can be utilized to construct a
compound protocol which can eventually violate this bound when Alice is
limited to individual attacks.
\subsection{Our protocol}
Our method is to use such a $(3/4,1/2)$-protocol as a building block, with
which Alice transfers a series of bits $x_{0}^{(i)}$, $x_{1}^{(i)}$ (not the
final $x_{0}$, $x_{1}$ that she wants to transfer) to Bob. The values of
x_{0}^{(i)}$, $x_{1}^{(i)}$ are \textit{not} completely random. Instead,
they must be chosen according to a certain rule. Then Bob uses many of
x_{0}^{(i)}$, $x_{1}^{(i)}$ to check whether Alice can determine their
values correctly. Finally he uses one of the remaining pairs of $x_{0}^{(i)}
, $x_{1}^{(i)}$ and asks Alice to encode her $x_{0}$, $x_{1}$. The general
form of the protocol is as follows.
\bigskip
\textit{Protocol A: weak OT for transferring }$(x_{0},x_{1})$
A1. Alice and Bob discuss and agree on a set $S$ of classical $n$-bit
strings.
A2. Alice randomly chooses two strings\newline
$X_{0}=x_{0}^{(1)}x_{0}^{(2)}...x_{0}^{(i)}...x_{0}^{(n)}$ and
X_{1}=x_{1}^{(1)}x_{1}^{(2)}...x_{1}^{(i)}...x_{1}^{(n)}$ from $S$. Note
that at this stage, none of these $x_{0}^{(i)}$, $x_{1}^{(i)}$ have any
specific relationship with the two final bits $x_{0}$, $x_{1}$ (we call them
as \textit{target bits} thereafter) that Alice wants to transfer to Bob as
the goal of the weak OT.
A3. For each $i$ ($i=1,...,n$), Alice transfers $x_{0}^{(i)}$, $x_{1}^{(i)}$
to Bob using a $(3/4,1/2)$-protocol. Bob randomly chooses $b_{i}\in \{0,1\}$
and decodes $x_{b_{i}}$.
A4. Security check: among all these $n$ runs of the
$(3/4,1/2)$-protocol, Bob picks $m$ ($m<n$) runs randomly. For each of these
runs, he asks Alice to announce $x_{0}^{(i)}$ and $x_{1}^{(i)}$, and checks
whether they are consistent with the value of $x_{b_{i}}$ that he obtained
in the $(3/4,1/2)$-protocol. He also checks that there is at least two
strings $X_{0}^{\prime } $ and $X_{1}^{\prime }$ in set $S$, such that all
the $m$ bits $x_{0}^{(i)} $ ($x_{1}^{(i)}$) that Alice announced are
contained in $X_{0}^{\prime }$ ($X_{1}^{\prime }$).
A5. If Alice's announced values pass the above check, Bob picks one of the
remaining $n-m$ unchecked runs (which is denoted as the $\hat{i}$-th run) of
the $(3/4,1/2)$-protocol. This run should satisfy the requirement that
x_{0}^{(\hat{i})}=0$, $x_{0}^{(\hat{i})}=1$, $x_{1}^{(\hat{i})}=0$, and
x_{1}^{(\hat{i})}=1$ are all allowed by set $S$. That is, in set $S$ there
is at least one string which contains all the $m$ bits $x_{0}^{(i)}$ (
x_{1}^{(i)}$) that Alice announced in step A4 and $x_{0}^{(\hat{i})}=0$ (
x_{1}^{(\hat{i})}=0$), and an equal number of strings, each of which also
contains all these $m$ bits $x_{0}^{(i)}$ ($x_{1}^{(i)}$) but with $x_{0}^{
\hat{i})}=1$ ($x_{1}^{(\hat{i})}=1$) instead. This guarantees that the $m$
bits $x_{0}^{(i)}$ ($x_{1}^{(i)}$) announced in step A4 are insufficient for
Bob to deduce the value of $x_{0}^{(\hat{i})}$ ($x_{1}^{(\hat{i})}$) from
set $S$. Alice checks that this requirement is met after Bob told her the
value of $\hat{i}$.
A6. Alice completes the weak OT by using the $\hat{i}$-th run of the
(3/4,1/2)$-protocol\ to encode the target bits $x_{0}$, $x_{1}$. That is,
she announces $x_{0}\oplus x_{0}^{(\hat{i})}$ and $x_{1}\oplus x_{1}^{(\hat{
})}$ to Bob. Thus Bob can obtain either $x_{0}$ or $x_{1}$ depending on
whether he has obtained $x_{0}^{(\hat{i})}$ or $x_{1}^{(\hat{i})}$ in the
\hat{i}$-th run of the $(3/4,1/2)$-protocol.
\bigskip
\subsection{A concrete example}
To make our protocol easier for understanding and analyzing, here we provide
a concrete example of our above protocol where the CKS protocol is used as
the $(3/4,1/2)$-protocol and the explicit form of set $S$ is given.
\bigskip
\textit{Protocol B: a concrete example}
B1. Alice and Bob run the CKS protocol for $n=3k$\ times. Every $3$ runs of
the CKS protocol are grouped together and we call it as a \textit{triple run
. Let $x_{0}^{(i)}$, $x_{1}^{(i)}$ ($i=1,2,3$) denote the bits that Alice
transfers to Bob in a triple run. The values of the strings
X_{0}=x_{0}^{(1)}x_{0}^{(2)}x_{0}^{(3)}$ and
X_{1}=x_{1}^{(1)}x_{1}^{(2)}x_{1}^{(3)}$ cannot be completely random.
Instead, they are required to be chosen within the set $S=\{000,001,010,10
\} $.
B2. Security check: for every triple run, Bob randomly picks two runs of the
CKS protocol, denotes them as the $i_{1}$-th and $i_{2}$-th runs. The
remaining run that is not picked is denoted as the $i_{3}$-th run. Bob asks
Alice to reveal $x_{0}^{(i_{1})}$, $x_{1}^{(i_{1})}$ and $x_{0}^{(i_{2})}$,
x_{1}^{(i_{2})}$. If
x_{0}^{(i_{1})}=x_{1}^{(i_{1})}=x_{0}^{(i_{2})}=x_{1}^{(i_{2})}=0$\ then Bob
marks the corresponding triple run as a \textit{useful run}, as both
x_{0}^{(i_{3})}$ and $x_{1}^{(i_{3})}$\ can either be $0$ or $1$\ according
to the definition of set $S$, so that they may potentially be used for
encoding the target bits $x_{0}$, $x_{1}$ later. Else if any of
x_{0}^{(i_{1})}$, $x_{1}^{(i_{1})}$, $x_{0}^{(i_{2})}$, $x_{1}^{(i_{2})}$\
is $1$, Bob asks Alice to reveal $x_{0}^{(i_{3})}$, $x_{1}^{(i_{3})}$ too,
and checks whether both $X_{0}=x_{0}^{(1)}x_{0}^{(2)}x_{0}^{(3)}$ and
X_{1}=x_{1}^{(1)}x_{1}^{(2)}x_{1}^{(3)}$ belong to set $S$. He also checks
that none of Alice's announced values conflicts with what he decoded from
the CKS protocol.
B3. If Alice's data passes the above check, Bob picks one of the useful runs
and asks Alice to complete the weak OT using this run. Then Alice announces
x_{0}\oplus x_{0}^{(i_{3})}$ and $x_{1}\oplus x_{1}^{(i_{3})}$ to Bob, so
that he can obtain either the target bit $x_{0}$ or $x_{1}$ depending on
whether he has obtained $x_{0}^{(i_{3})}$ or $x_{1}^{(i_{3})}$ in the
corresponding run of the CKS protocol.
B4. For better security, Bob can further ask Alice to reveal
x_{0}^{(i_{3})} $ and $x_{1}^{(i_{3})}$\ of all the rest useful runs which
are not picked in step B3. Then he checks whether they conflict with what he
decoded from the CKS protocol.
\bigskip
\section{Security}
\subsection{The collective attack}
The above protocols A and B are, unfortunately, still restricted by the
security bound $2P_{Alice}^{\ast }+P_{Bob}^{\ast }\geq 2$\ if Alice has
unlimited computational power to apply collective attacks. Taking Protocol B
as an example, her cheating strategy is as follows.
In step B1, for each triple run Alice introduces a $6$-qubit system
C=c_{0}^{(1)}c_{0}^{(2)}c_{0}^{(3)}c_{1}^{(1)}c_{1}^{(2)}c_{1}^{(3)}$ to
keep her choice of the strings $X_{0}=x_{0}^{(1)}x_{0}^{(2)}x_{0}^{(3)}$ and
$X_{1}=x_{1}^{(1)}x_{1}^{(2)}x_{1}^{(3)}$ at the quantum level. The state of
system $C$ is initialized a
\begin{eqnarray}
&&\left\vert
c_{0}^{(1)}c_{0}^{(2)}c_{0}^{(3)}c_{1}^{(1)}c_{1}^{(2)}c_{1}^{(3)}\righ
\rangle \nonumber \\
&=&\frac{1}{2}(\left\vert 000\right\rangle +\left\vert 001\right\rangle
+\left\vert 010\right\rangle +\left\vert 100\right\rangle ) \nonumber \\
&&\otimes \frac{1}{2}(\left\vert 000\right\rangle +\left\vert
001\right\rangle +\left\vert 010\right\rangle +\left\vert 100\right\rangle ),
\label{C}
\end{eqnarray
where the first (last) three qubits are corresponding to the string $X_{0}$
$X_{1}$). That is, it is a superposition of all the states allowed by set $S
.
In the $i$-th run ($i=1,2,3$) of the CKS protocol during a triple run, let
\beta ^{(i)}$\ denote the qutrit that Bob sent to Alice, taken from his
two-qutrit state $\left\vert \phi _{b}^{(i)}\right\rangle =(\left\vert
bb\right\rangle +\left\vert 22\right\rangle )/\sqrt{2}$. Alice uses
c_{0}^{(i)}$, $c_{1}^{(i)}$ as control qubits to determine her
transformation on $\beta ^{(i)}$. That is, on $c_{0}^{(i)}\otimes
c_{1}^{(i)}\otimes \beta ^{(i)}$ she applies the unitary transformatio
\begin{eqnarray}
T_{c_{0}^{(i)}c_{1}^{(i)}\beta ^{(i)}}
&=&\sum\limits_{x_{0}^{(i)},x_{1}^{(i)}=0}^{1}(\left\vert
x_{0}^{(i)}\right\rangle _{c_{0}^{(i)}}\left\langle x_{0}^{(i)}\right\vert
\otimes \left\vert x_{1}^{(i)}\right\rangle _{c_{1}^{(i)}}\left\langle
x_{1}^{(i)}\right\vert \nonumber \\
&&\otimes \left[
\begin{array}{ccc}
(-1)^{x_{0}^{(i)}} & 0 & 0 \\
0 & (-1)^{x_{1}^{(i)}} & 0 \\
0 & 0 &
\end{array
\right] _{\beta ^{(i)}}). \label{T}
\end{eqnarray
By doing so, Alice manages to finish the transformation $\left\vert
0\right\rangle \rightarrow (-1)^{x_{0}}\left\vert 0\right\rangle $,
\left\vert 1\right\rangle \rightarrow (-1)^{x_{1}}\left\vert 1\right\rangle
, $\left\vert 2\right\rangle \rightarrow \left\vert 2\right\rangle $ on
Bob's qutrit $\beta ^{(i)}$, just as it is required in the CKS protocol when
Alice is honest. The only difference is that in the current case,
x_{0}^{(i)}$\ and $x_{1}^{(i)}$\ do not have deterministic classical values.
Instead, they are kept at the quantum level.
In step B2 whenever Bob picks one run of the CKS protocol and asks Alice to
reveal the corresponding $x_{0}^{(i)}$\ and $x_{1}^{(i)}$, Alice measures
the qubits $c_{0}^{(i)}$ and $c_{1}^{(i)}$ in the computational basis
\{\left\vert 0\right\rangle ,\left\vert 1\right\rangle \}$. If the result is
$\left\vert 0\right\rangle $ ($\left\vert 1\right\rangle $) then she
announces the corresponding $x_{0}^{(i)}$\ or $x_{1}^{(i)}$ as $0$ ($1$).
From equation (\ref{T}) it can be seen that Alice's announcement will never
conflict with the values Bob decodes from the CKS protocol. Now recall that
a useful run is defined as the triple run where
x_{0}^{(i_{1})}=x_{1}^{(i_{1})}=x_{0}^{(i_{2})}=x_{1}^{(i_{2})}=0$.
Therefore by combining equations (\ref{C}) and (\ref{T}), we know that the
state of $c_{0}^{(i_{3})}\otimes c_{1}^{(i_{3})}\otimes \phi _{b}^{(i_{3})}$
of any useful run at the end of step B2 become
\begin{eqnarray}
&&\left\vert c_{0}^{(i_{3})}\otimes c_{1}^{(i_{3})}\otimes \phi
_{b}^{(i_{3})}\right\rangle \nonumber \\
&=&\frac{1}{2}\sum\limits_{x_{0}^{(i_{3})},x_{1}^{(i_{3})}=0}^{1}\{\lef
\vert x_{0}^{(i_{3})}\right\rangle _{c_{0}^{(i_{3})}}\otimes \left\vert
x_{1}^{(i_{3})}\right\rangle _{c_{1}^{(i_{3})}} \nonumber \\
&&\otimes \frac{1}{\sqrt{2}}[(-1)^{x_{b}^{(i_{3})}}\left\vert
bb\right\rangle +\left\vert 22\right\rangle ]\}. \label{B2}
\end{eqnarray}
If a useful run is picked for the security check in step B4, Alice can
simply measure the qubits $c_{0}^{(i_{3})}$ and $c_{1}^{(i_{3})}$ in the
basis $\{\left\vert 0\right\rangle ,\left\vert 1\right\rangle \}$ and reveal
$x_{0}^{(i_{3})}$ and $x_{1}^{(i_{3})}$\ correctly. On the other hand, if a
useful run is picked in step B3 to encode Alice's target bits $x_{0}$,
x_{1} $, then she will have the freedom to choose whether to measure
c_{0}^{(i_{3})}$ and $c_{1}^{(i_{3})}$ in the basis $\{\left\vert
0\right\rangle ,\left\vert 1\right\rangle \}$ and learn the values of $x_{0}
, $x_{1}$\ as an honest Alice does, or to learn the value of Bob's $b$ with
a certain probability instead. In the latter case, she measures
c_{0}^{(i_{3})}$ and $c_{1}^{(i_{3})}$ in the basis $\{\left\vert
+\right\rangle ,\left\vert -\right\rangle \}$, where $\left\vert \pm
\right\rangle =(\left\vert 0\right\rangle \pm \left\vert 1\right\rangle )
\sqrt{2}$. This is because equation (\ref{B2}) can be rewritten a
\begin{eqnarray}
&&\left\vert c_{\bar{b}}^{(i_{3})}\otimes c_{b}^{(i_{3})}\otimes \phi
_{b}^{(i_{3})}\right\rangle \nonumber \\
&=&\frac{1}{2}\sum\limits_{x_{b}^{(i_{3})}=0}^{1}\{(\sum\limits_{x_{\bar{b
}^{(i_{3})}=0}^{1}\left\vert x_{\bar{b}}^{(i_{3})}\right\rangle _{c_{\bar{b
}^{(i_{3})}})\otimes \left\vert x_{b}^{(i_{3})}\right\rangle
_{c_{b}^{(i_{3})}} \nonumber \\
&&\otimes \frac{1}{\sqrt{2}}[(-1)^{x_{b}^{(i_{3})}}\left\vert
bb\right\rangle +\left\vert 22\right\rangle ]\} \nonumber \\
&=&\frac{1}{\sqrt{2}}\left\vert +\right\rangle _{c_{\bar{b
}^{(i_{3})}}\otimes \sum\limits_{x_{b}^{(i_{3})}=0}^{1}\{\left\vert
x_{b}^{(i_{3})}\right\rangle _{c_{b}^{(i_{3})}} \nonumber \\
&&\otimes \frac{1}{\sqrt{2}}[(-1)^{x_{b}^{(i_{3})}}\left\vert
bb\right\rangle +\left\vert 22\right\rangle ]\} \nonumber \\
&=&\frac{1}{\sqrt{2}}\left\vert +\right\rangle _{c_{\bar{b
}^{(i_{3})}}\otimes \lbrack \left\vert -\right\rangle
_{c_{b}^{(i_{3})}}\otimes \left\vert bb\right\rangle +\left\vert
+\right\rangle _{c_{b}^{(i_{3})}}\otimes \left\vert 22\right\rangle ].
\end{eqnarray
We can see that if Alice finds the outcome of her measurement on
c_{0}^{(i_{3})}$ ($c_{1}^{(i_{3})}$) is $\left\vert -\right\rangle $, then
she knows with certainty that Bob's choice is $b=0$\ ($b=1$). This will
occur with the probability $1/2$. On the other $1/2$ case, the outcomes of
Alice's measurements on both $c_{0}^{(i_{3})}$ and $c_{1}^{(i_{3})}$ are
\left\vert +\right\rangle $, thus she has to guess the value of $b$ by
herself. Therefore, the average probability that Alice can learn Bob's $b$
correctly is still $P_{Alice}^{\ast }=3/4$, which is the same as that of the
original CKS protocol. As there is always $P_{Bob}^{\ast }\geq 1/2$ for any
protocol, we can see that the security bound $2P_{Alice}^{\ast
}+P_{Bob}^{\ast }\geq 2$ still holds in the current case.
\subsection{Security against individual attacks}
However, the above cheating requires the computational power to perform
collective operations on many qubits/qutrits. More rigorously, equations
\ref{C}) and (\ref{T}) indicate that at the end of step B1, in every triple
run Alice needs to make $6$ qubits and $3$ qutrits entangled together, even
if Bob's half of his two-qutrit states is not counted. Here we will show
that if Alice is limited to individual measurements, then the protocol can
be secure.
In this scenario, during each run of the CKS protocol, Alice is not allowed
to perform collective operations to entangle the qutrit $\beta $ she
received from Bob with her quantum ancillary system anymore. What she can do
is to handle $\beta $ individually. In general, such operations can be
modeled as a channel $C_{\alpha \beta }$ which takes $\beta $ as an input,
then outputs a single qutrit state and a classical register $\alpha $
containing her measurement outcome. The effect of the channel $C_{\alpha
\beta }$ can be written a
\begin{equation}
C_{\alpha \beta }(\left\vert e_{ini}\right\rangle _{\alpha }\left\vert
j\right\rangle _{\beta })=\sum\limits_{j^{\prime }=0}^{2}\lambda
_{jj^{\prime }}\left\vert e_{jj^{\prime }}\right\rangle _{\alpha }\left\vert
j^{\prime }\right\rangle _{\beta },
\end{equation
where $j=0,1,2$, and $\left\vert e_{ini}\right\rangle _{\alpha }$\ (
\left\vert e_{jj^{\prime }}\right\rangle _{\alpha }$) is the initial (final)
state of $\alpha $. Comparing with equations (\ref{resultant2}) and (\ref{U
), we can see that $C_{\alpha \beta }$ is actually a special case of the
general cheating operation $T$ studied in the proof of Theorem 1. The
specialty in the current case is that $\alpha $ is classical, while in
equation (\ref{resultant2}) it can be either classical or quantum.
Therefore, by formulating the resultant state of $C_{\alpha \beta }$ as
equation (\ref{resultant2}) and repeating the same proof in Sect. III.A, we
find that the result of Theorem 1 still applies here. That is, if Alice can
guess $b$ with nonzero bias by applying channel $C_{\alpha \beta }$ to Bob's
qutrit $\beta $ and Bob never aborts, then she cannot learn $x_{b}$ with
reliability $1$.
Moreover, as $\alpha $ is a classical register, there will be no alternative
bases for measuring it. That is, once Alice decides on what kind of channel
to apply, then the measurement basis for $\alpha $ is also fixed. No matter
when Alice will measure $\alpha $ and extract the information stored in it,
this information is already a deterministic classical object after the
channel is applied, and there is only one choice of the basis for extracting
it. This is different from an unlimited quantum attack, where Alice can
apply the cheating operation and delay the measurement, then at a later
time, if she wants to learn $x_{b}$, she measures $\alpha $ in a certain
basis, while if she wants to learn $b$, she measures $\alpha $ in another
basis. In the current case, even if the measurement could be delayed, there
is only one basis for Alice (otherwise it will become a collective attack).
Therefore, Alice needs to determine beforehand which basis to use, and picks
the corresponding channel to apply. Dishonest-Alice will surely choose a
basis which enables her to learn Bob's $b$ with a nonzero bias, because this
is the goal of her cheating. But then Theorem 1 guarantees that she cannot
know\ with certainty the value of $x_{b}$ that Bob actually obtained.
Consequently, if this run of the CKS protocol is picked for the security
check in Protocol B, Alice will stand a non-vanishing probability
\varepsilon $ to either announce a wrong value of $x_{b}$ or cause Bob to
abort (in case his measurement outcome is neither $\Pi _{0}$ nor $\Pi _{1}$
in step 5 of the CKS protocol).
Now suppose that Alice chooses to cheat in $pn$ ($1/n\leq p\leq 1$) runs of
the CKS protocol. While Alice can apply different strategies in these runs
so that the value of $\varepsilon $ can vary, we can define $\varepsilon
_{m} $\ as the minimum of $\varepsilon $ in any run that Alice cheats. Thus
1-\varepsilon _{m}$\ is the maximal probability for Alice to pass Bob's
check in a single run. Since at the end of Protocol B, $n-1$ runs of the CKS
protocol will be checked, there can be two possibilities.
(I) The only one run that is not checked is picked among the $pn$ runs that
Alice cheats. Since this run is used for encoding the target bits in step
B3, Alice can gain a non-trivial amount of information on $b$. As the CKS
protocol ensures that Alice can learn $b$ correctly with the probability
3/4 $ at the most, and the other $pn-1$ runs that Alice cheats are all
checked, the maximal probability for Alice to learn $b$ correctly and pass
the checks successfully in this case is\
\begin{equation}
P_{Alice}^{I}\leq \frac{3}{4}(1-\varepsilon _{m})^{pn-1}.
\end{equation}
(II) The only one run that is not checked is not picked among the $pn$ runs
that Alice cheats. As Alice acts honestly in this run, she can only get $b$
by guess, which can be correct with the probability $1/2$. Meanwhile, all
the $pn$ runs that Alice cheats are checked. Thus the maximal probability
for Alice to learn $b$ correctly and pass the checks successfully in this
case is\
\begin{equation}
P_{Alice}^{II}\leq \frac{1}{2}(1-\varepsilon _{m})^{pn}.
\end{equation}
Note that cases (I) and (II) occur with the probabilities $p$ and $1-p$,
respectively. Thus\ the total probability for Alice to pass the check while
learning $b$ correctly is\
\begin{eqnarray}
P_{Alice}^{\ast } &=&pP_{Alice}^{I}+(1-p)P_{Alice}^{II} \nonumber \\
&\leq &\frac{3}{4}p(1-\varepsilon _{m})^{pn-1}+\frac{1}{2
(1-p)(1-\varepsilon _{m})^{pn}.
\end{eqnarray
Sinc
\begin{eqnarray}
&&\frac{\partial }{\partial p}(\frac{3}{4}p(1-\varepsilon _{m})^{pn-1}+\frac
1}{2}(1-p)(1-\varepsilon _{m})^{pn}) \nonumber \\
&=&((\frac{3}{4}p+\frac{1}{2}(1-p)(1-\varepsilon _{m}))n\ln (1-\varepsilon
_{m}) \nonumber \\
&&+\frac{3}{4}-\frac{1}{2}(1-\varepsilon _{m}))(1-\varepsilon _{m})^{pn-1}
\nonumber \\
&<&0,
\end{eqnarray
higher $P_{Alice}^{\ast }$ can be obtained by lowering $p$. The lowest
nonzero $p$ is $p=1/n$, i.e., Alice cheats in $pn=1$ run only and hopes that
she is so lucky that this run is finally picked for encoding the target
bits. In this case\
\begin{eqnarray}
P_{Alice}^{\ast } &\leq &\frac{1}{2}+\frac{1}{4n}-\frac{\varepsilon _{m}}{2
(1-\frac{1}{n}) \nonumber \\
&\leq &\frac{1}{2}+\frac{1}{4n}.
\end{eqnarray
As a result, for any arbitrarily small positive constant $\zeta $, Bob can
choose $n>1/(4\zeta )$ and ask Alice to perform the corresponding Protocol
B, which can achieve $P_{Alice}^{\ast }<1/2+\zeta $.
On the other hand, Bob's cheating probability remains the same as that of
the CKS protocol. This is because in any useful run, the values of
x_{0}^{(i_{1})}$, $x_{1}^{(i_{1})}$, $x_{0}^{(i_{2})}$, $x_{1}^{(i_{2})}$
that Alice revealed are always $0$. As set $S$ is defined as
S=\{000,001,010,100\}$, any value of $x_{0}^{(i_{3})}$ and $x_{1}^{(i_{3})}
\ remains possible to Bob unless Alice reveals them. Thus the values of
x_{0}^{(i_{1})}$, $x_{1}^{(i_{1})}$, $x_{0}^{(i_{2})}$, $x_{1}^{(i_{2})}$ in
a useful run do not provide any information for Bob to deduce
x_{0}^{(i_{3})}$ and $x_{1}^{(i_{3})}$. Also, the values of $x_{0}^{(i)}$,
x_{1}^{(i)}$ in different triple runs are chosen independently, so that the
specific $x_{0}^{(i_{3})}$, $x_{1}^{(i_{3})}$\ finally chosen for encoding
the target bits $x_{0}$, $x_{1}$ are not affected by any $x_{0}^{(i)}$,
x_{1}^{(i)}$ from all the other runs. Consequently, Bob still has to decode
the target bits via the corresponding run of the CKS protocol, without any
help from other runs. Therefore, his cheating probability in our Protocol B
is still $P_{Bob}^{\ast }=1/2$, as what can be obtained in a single run of
the original CKS protocol \cite{qbc14}.
Putting things together, we can see that when Alice is limited to individual
measurements, in our Protocol B $2P_{Alice}^{\ast }+P_{Bob}^{\ast }$ can be
made arbitrarily close to $3/2$, which is the maximal violation of the
security bound $2P_{Alice}^{\ast }+P_{Bob}^{\ast }\geq 2$ since the minimums
for $P_{Alice}^{\ast }$ and $P_{Bob}^{\ast }$\ are both $1/2$.
\subsection{Security against limited collective attacks}
If Alice is allowed to perform collective operations but it is restricted to
a limited number of quantum systems only, then the security bound
2P_{Alice}^{\ast }+P_{Bob}^{\ast }\geq 2$ can also be violated to a certain
degree.
Here we consider the case where Alice's collective operations are limited to
the quantum systems in the same run of the CKS protocol only, i.e., the
qutrit $\beta ^{(i)}$ that Bob sends to her and the ancillary system she
introduces (e.g., it can contain the two control qubits $c_{0}^{(i)}$,
c_{1}^{(i)}$ for keeping $x_{0}^{(i)}$, $x_{1}^{(i)}$ at the quantum level).
She can still apply the transformation defined in equation (\ref{T}) or
other operations on these systems for cheating. Our discussion below will
remain valid as long as this ancillary system cannot be entangled with the
ancillary system for any other run (e.g., equation (\ref{C}) is not allowed).
In this scenario, since the potential cheating strategies could be
innumerous and much more complicated than the individual attacks, it is hard
to prove the exact security bound of our protocol. But at least here we can
obtain the loose upper and lower bounds of the security, which is $5/3\leq
2P_{Alice}^{\ast }+P_{Bob}^{\ast }<2$. It means that the probability for
successful cheatings is higher than that of the individual attacks, but it
still violates the security bound for the unlimited collective attack.
Let us prove the upper bound $2P_{Alice}^{\ast }+P_{Bob}^{\ast }<2$\ first.
After the end of step B1, from Alice's point of view, the general form of
the state of Alice's and Bob's combined system for each single run of the
CKS protocol i
\begin{eqnarray}
\left\vert \alpha \otimes \beta \otimes \beta ^{\prime }\right\rangle
&=&\lambda _{b}^{(0)}\left\vert e_{b}^{(0)}\right\rangle _{\alpha
}\left\vert \phi _{b}\right\rangle _{\beta \beta ^{\prime }}+\lambda
_{b}^{(1)}\left\vert e_{b}^{(1)}\right\rangle _{\alpha }\left\vert \phi
_{b}^{\prime }\right\rangle _{\beta \beta ^{\prime }} \nonumber \\
&&+\lambda _{b}^{(2)}\left\vert e_{b}^{(2)}\otimes \phi _{b}^{\prime \prime
}\right\rangle _{\alpha \beta \beta ^{\prime }},
\end{eqnarray
where the notations are the same as those in the proof of Theorem 1, with
the additional $\left\vert e_{b}^{(2)}\otimes \phi _{b}^{\prime \prime
}\right\rangle _{\alpha \beta \beta ^{\prime }}$, which represents the state
orthogonal to both $\left\vert e_{b}^{(0)}\right\rangle _{\alpha }\left\vert
\phi _{b}\right\rangle _{\beta \beta ^{\prime }}$ and $\left\vert
e_{b}^{(1)}\right\rangle _{\alpha }\left\vert \phi _{b}^{\prime
}\right\rangle _{\beta \beta ^{\prime }}$. Note that the actual system may
already collapse to one of the terms at the right hand side of the equation
due to Bob's measurement on $\beta \otimes \beta ^{\prime }$. But Alice can
still treat the whole state as the entangled form in this equation if she
has not measured $\alpha $. This is because Alice's and Bob's local
operations are commutable for the entangled system $\alpha \otimes \beta
\otimes \beta ^{\prime }$, so that it does not matter mathematically who
performs the measurement first.
Since Bob learns that $x_{b}^{(i)}=0$ ($x_{b}^{(i)}=1$) if he gets
\left\vert \phi _{b}\right\rangle _{\beta \beta ^{\prime }}$\ ($\left\vert
\phi _{b}^{\prime }\right\rangle _{\beta \beta ^{\prime }}$), otherwise he
aborts, the above equation can be understood a
\begin{eqnarray}
\left\vert \alpha \otimes \beta \otimes \beta ^{\prime }\right\rangle
&=&\lambda _{b}^{(0)}\left\vert e_{b}^{(0)}\right\rangle _{\alpha
}\left\vert x_{b}^{(i)}=0\right\rangle _{\beta \beta ^{\prime }}+\lambda
_{b}^{(1)}\left\vert e_{b}^{(1)}\right\rangle _{\alpha }\left\vert
x_{b}^{(i)}=1\right\rangle _{\beta \beta ^{\prime }} \nonumber \\
&&+\lambda _{b}^{(2)}\left\vert e_{b}^{(2)}\otimes abort \right\rangle
_{\alpha \beta \beta ^{\prime }},
\end{eqnarray
Comparing with equation (\ref{resultant2}), it is even more general since it
also includes the case where Bob may abort. Now if none of the coefficients
\lambda _{b}^{(0)}$\ and $\lambda _{b}^{(1)}$\ equals exactly to $1$, then
the value of $x_{b}^{(i)}$ is kept at the quantum level. That is, it will be
determined by the uncertainty in quantum measurement, so that Alice cannot
control with certainty which value can be\ obtained by Bob. Else if one of
\lambda _{b}^{(0)}$\ and $\lambda _{b}^{(1)}$\ equals exactly to $1$, then
the other one and $\lambda _{b}^{(2)}$\ obviously have to be zero, and the
value of $x_{b}^{(i)}$ becomes classically deterministic.
After the end of step B1, suppose that the values of $x_{0}^{(i)}$,
x_{1}^{(i)}$ in $pn$ ($n=3k$, $0\leq p\leq 1$) runs of the CKS protocol in
Protocol B are kept at the quantum level (the values of $\lambda _{b}^{(0)}
\ and $\lambda _{b}^{(1)}$\ depend on Alice's specific strategy, which can
be different in each run). In the rest $(1-p)n$ runs, $x_{0}^{(i)}$,
x_{1}^{(i)}$ are no longer kept at the quantum level after step B1, but take
deterministic classical values instead, so that Alice can ensure that the
values of both $X_{0}$ and $X_{1}$ are presented in set $S$. Then these
(1-p)n$ runs are in fact executed honestly, as Theorem 1 ensures that Alice
cannot use them to decode Bob's $b$. She can get $b$ only if one of the
other $pn$ runs of the CKS protocol dishonestly executed is picked in step
B3 for encoding the target bits $x_{0}$ and $x_{1}$ to complete the weak OT.
This will occur with the probability $p$. Even if Alice uses the optimal
cheating strategy so that she can still learn Bob's $b$ with the probability
$3/4$ (which is the maximum that can be obtained in the CKS protocol) for
such a single dishonest run, the probability for (this run to be chosen)
\textit{and} ($b$ is learned correctly) will drop down to $(3/4)p$. If any
other non-optimal cheating strategy was used in this run, the probability is
limited by this value too. In the rest $(1-p)$ occasions where one of the
(1-p)n$ honestly executed runs is chosen for encoding the target bits, Alice
can only get Bob's $b$ by guessing which has probability $1/2$ to be
correct. Therefore, the total probability for Alice to cheat successfully in
our Protocol B is bounded b
\begin{eqnarray}
P_{Alice}^{\ast } &=&[\frac{3}{4}p+\frac{1}{2}(1-p)]p_{c} \nonumber \\
&=&(\frac{1}{2}+\frac{1}{4}p)p_{c}, \label{pa}
\end{eqnarray
where $p_{c}$\ is the probability that Alice can pass the security checks.
Finding the tight bound for $P_{Alice}^{\ast }$\ requires a rigorous
evaluation of $p_{c}$, which will depend on the specific cheating strategy
Alice applies on the $pn$ runs. But we can show that there will always be
P_{Alice}^{\ast }<3/4$. This is because if $p<1$, for a loose evaluation we
can simply take the maximum $p_{c}=1$ which surely covers any strategy. Then
$P_{Alice}^{\ast }=1/2+p/4<3/4$. On the other hand, consider the case $p=1$.
As the collective attacks are limited to the quantum systems in each single
run of the CKS protocol, the values of $x_{0}^{(i)}$, $x_{1}^{(i)}$ in
different runs will not correlate with each other. Then in the current case,
since $x_{0}^{(i)}$, $x_{1}^{(i)}$ in all the $n$ runs are kept at the
quantum level, any one of them can turn out to be either $0$ or $1$ during
the measurement in the security check. The outcome is determined
independently in each single run by quantum uncertainty, thus Bob cannot
ensure with probability $100\%$\ that $X_{0}$ and $X_{1}$ will always take
the legitimate values in set $S$ in every single run in the security check.
Therefore, we have $p_{c}<1$ when $p=1$. Then equation (\ref{pa}) gives
P_{Alice}^{\ast }=(1/2+1/4)p_{c}<3/4$. Namely, no matter $p<1$ or $p=1$,
P_{Alice}^{\ast }$ cannot equal exactly to $3/4$, i.e., it is always lower
than that of the original CKS protocol.
Meanwhile, Bob's cheating probability still equals to that of the CKS
protocol, i.e., $P_{Bob}^{\ast }=1/2$, since the specific $x_{0}^{(i_{3})}$,
$x_{1}^{(i_{3})}$\ finally chosen for encoding the target bits $x_{0}$,
x_{1}$ are not affected by any $x_{0}^{(i)}$, $x_{1}^{(i)}$ from all the
other runs, as it is elaborated in the previous subsection. Combining this
P_{Bob}^{\ast }$\ with $P_{Alice}^{\ast }<3/4$, we can see that under the
limited collective attack, our Protocol B can obtai
\begin{equation}
2P_{Alice}^{\ast }+P_{Bob}^{\ast }<2\times \frac{3}{4}+\frac{1}{2}.
\label{protocol B}
\end{equation
Thus the upper bound $2P_{Alice}^{\ast }+P_{Bob}^{\ast }<2$\ is proven.
Now we prove the lower bound $2P_{Alice}^{\ast }+P_{Bob}^{\ast }\geq 5/3$.
This is because there exists the following cheating strategy for Alice. In
every triple run, she only keeps one pair of $x_{0}^{(i)}$, $x_{1}^{(i)}$ (
i=1,2,3$) at the quantum level by using the collective operation described
by equation (\ref{T}). The other two pairs of $x_{0}^{(i)}$, $x_{1}^{(i)}$
are all taken as $0$ beforehand, and the corresponding two runs of the CKS
protocol are executed honestly. Then all triple runs can pass the security
check with certainty. Meanwhile, when a useful run is finally picked for
encoding the target bits, the pair $x_{0}^{(i)}$, $x_{1}^{(i)}$ kept at the
quantum level stands a probability $1/3$ to be chosen. Thus we have $p=1/3$.
Substitute it into equation (\ref{pa}) and we yiel
\begin{equation}
2P_{Alice}^{\ast }+P_{Bob}^{\ast }=\frac{5}{3}, \label{lower}
\end{equation
so that this lower bound can be reached even when Alice is restricted to the
limited collective attack. But we do not know whether this bound is tight at
the present moment, as it is unclear whether there may exist an even better
cheating strategy.
\section{Potential improvements}
By observing the above cheating strategy that led to the lower bound
equation (\ref{lower}), we can see that the probability $p=1/3$ comes from
the specific set $S$ used in Protocol B, which is made of $3$-bit strings
only. In the more general form, i.e., our Protocol A, we can expect that
choosing a more complicated set $S$ may further reduced the value of $p$.
For example, set $S$ can be chosen as a classical error-correcting code,
e.g., the binary linear $(n,k,d)$-code \cite{qi43}. That is, $S$ is taken as
a set of classical $n$-bit strings. Each string is called a codeword. This
set of strings has two features. (a) Among all the $2^{n}$ possible choices
of $n$-bit strings, only a particular set of the size $\sim 2^{k}$\ ($k<n$)
is selected to construct this set. (b) The distance (i.e., the number of
different bits) between any two codewords in this set is not less than $d$\
$d<n$). With these features, it can be expected that by increasing $n$ while
fixing $k/n$ and $d/n$, a dishonest Alice will have to introduce a much
larger number of entangled control qubits for keeping more pairs of
x_{0}^{(i)}$, $x_{1}^{(i)}$ at the quantum level, so that
X_{0}=x_{0}^{(1)}x_{0}^{(2)}...x_{0}^{(i)}...x_{0}^{(n)}$ and
X_{1}=x_{1}^{(1)}x_{1}^{(2)}...x_{1}^{(i)}...x_{1}^{(n)}$ will appear as
legitimate strings in set $S$ no matter which bits are picked for the
security check. Therefore with a properly chosen $S$, Protocol A may further
lower the successful probability of limited collective attacks, and also
raises the difficulty of implementing these attacks. However, the rigorous
security bound will depend heavily on the structure of the specific set $S$
used in the protocol. This analysis is left for future research.
\section{Summary and remarks}
Thus we show that the security bound $2P_{Alice}^{\ast }+P_{Bob}^{\ast }\geq
2$ for weak OT can be violated for an Alice with limited computational
power. As a rigorously checkable example, we proposed Protocol B which
reaches the maximal violation $2P_{Alice}^{\ast }+P_{Bob}^{\ast }\rightarrow
3/2$ when only individual measurements are allowed. For attacks using
collective operations on a limited number of quantum systems, there can
still be $P_{Alice}^{\ast }<3/4$ while $P_{Bob}^{\ast }=1/2$. An even lower
value of $P_{Alice}^{\ast }$ could be expected from Protocol A.
Note that Ref. \cite{qbc88} obtained the security bound without limiting
Alice to individual measurements. Thus our protocols does not really break
the bound in principle. But it still has great practical significance. This
is because in practice, any quantum storage devices can keep the quantum
states faithfully for a limited time only. Suppose that $\tau $ is the
maximal storage time available with state-of-the-art technology. Then during
step B1 of Protocol B, Bob can require that every run of the CKS protocol is
separated from each other by a time interval larger than $\tau $, so that
any ancillary system that a dishonest Alice may introduce to entangle with
Bob's qutrit will suffer from errors, making Alice unable to pass the
security check. In this case, Alice has to finish the measurement on Bob's
qutrit (if she does not want to perform the honest unitary transformation)
in each single run of the CKS protocol before the next run begins. Thus her
cheating is actually reduced to individual measurements. So we can see that
as long as our protocol is proven secure against individual measurements,
then it naturally implies that we can use it as a secure protocol in
practice.
This work was supported in part by
the NSF of Guangdong province.
| {
"redpajama_set_name": "RedPajamaArXiv"
} |
Space NK's Annual Showcase Lets Consumers in on the Action
In their follow-up act to last year's inaugural media showcase, London-based retailer, Space NK, showcased an expanded assortment of brands and added a day for consumers.
BY cewwpadm | PUBLISHED May 22, 2018
In their follow-up act to last year's inaugural media showcase, London-based retailer, Space NK, went all in with an expanded list of brands and an additional day dedicated to consumers.
Thirty-four brands, established and new, were on hand last week at Industria Studios in the West Village to show their new launches for summer and fall. The first day brought print editors, digital press, influencers and professional hairstylists and makeup artists, while the second day was open to top members in the N.dulge loyalty program and Space NK U.S. employees.
"Being this was our first time inviting our top-tier N.dulge loyalty program customers to attend the brand showcase, we felt it was the best opportunity for us to feature the breadth of our assortment," said Noah Rosenblatt, Managing Director at Space NK. "This event allows us to present our biggest brands alongside those that are newcomers to the market in an unbiased environment."
Amongst best-sellers like Bumble and bumble, Diptyque, Tata Harper and Eve Lom, attendees of the #NewNextSNK event got to preview new additions Votary, Windle & Moodie, Clark's Botanicals and Rossano Ferretti. For Margaret Mitchell, Space NK Global Buying Director, these lesser-known brands can be leveraged to help the business as a whole. "The Space NK customer values being ahead of trends and feeling as though she is the first among friends to discover a new brand," she said. "Operationally, it means our business needs to be nimble and flexible, but in this environment it is more important to be reactive and opportunistic rather than overly structured and bureaucratic."
This nimbleness is a boon to smaller companies that find Space NK to be a partner willing to offer them more than just shelf space. "People go to Space NK because they want to get good advice and the products [in the stores] have been picked for the right reasons," said Paul Windle, owner and founder of hair care and styling brand Windle & Moodie.
For Paul, Space NK also has a personal connection. "Our salon is based in Covent Garden, where Space NK's first shop was and [Space NK founder] Nicky Kinnaird was one of my clients 25 years ago," he explained. "It's beautiful to know this massive success they've had. They're niche players and we see ourselves as niche players, so it's great that that tradition is carrying on."
Many of the brands featured this year were newbies in U.S. Space NK's, but already have a presence in the retailer's U.K. doors. "I launched in two of their U.K. doors eight years ago," said Francesco Clark, owner of skin care brand Clark's Botanicals. "We're now in 53 of the doors in the U.K. We've never had a marketing budget — I literally started the brand from a hospital bed in my bedroom — and now to be at the point where we are well known enough in the U.K. that the U.S. is giving us a shot in brick and mortar feels like a dream come true."
Votary, another new entry on this side of the pond, is a two-year-old skin care brand created by former makeup artist and beauty editor, Arabella Preston. Her range of natural plant oil products have been in Space NK for two months, she said, and she's already seeing a positive reaction from U.S. consumers. "We're particularly known for our Rose Geranium & Apricot Cleansing Oil — it's what we launched with and is still the bestseller across the range." Arabella is capitalizing on the momentum she's made so far, launching a vitamin C face mist in June, followed by a roll-on eye oil with retinol and tuberose in September.
As for why consumers in America are just now getting their chance to try these heretofore only-in-the-U.K. brands, Margaret said it's a combination of consumer awareness and demand. "The rise of digital and social media channels has meant that customers anywhere can see what we are doing in any market. Our U.S. clients are asking for products that we carry in the U.K., and vice versa," she noted. "When we start to hear requests in our stores or see an uptick in searches on the website, we know it's time to at least test the brand in the market."
Based on the success of last year's event and the buzz around this one — over two days, the space saw 350 visitors total — a brand spokesperson notes that not only will this type of event be an annual endeavor, they are also exploring a second showcase in LA, where Space NK also has a strong market presence.
"Our hope is that this showcase event gives our customers and our brand partners an opportunity to connect on a different level. The event is a way for us to reinforce that Space NK is a place of discovery, expert advice, and bespoke experiences," said Noah.
Melis del Rey
Bridget Love
VP/GMM, Merchandising Beauty, Fashion, Accessories, & Jewelry
Melissa Guy
Chief Revenue Officer, Beauty & Style
Dotdash Meredith
Charlotte Holman Ros
President, North America
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Diane Crecca Consulting
Kathleen Croddick Molyneaux
Nancy Twine
Briogeo Hair Care
This year's trends reveal science is king with the industry moving towards bio-tech ...
Beauty Creators Awards
A banquet-style lunch – cobb salad to be precise – never tasted so ...
18 Things You Probably Didn't Know About Glow Recipe's Female Founders
Synergy is the secret sauce to success at Glow Recipe, where Sarah Lee ... | {
"redpajama_set_name": "RedPajamaCommonCrawl"
} |
Rookie Profile – Malik Willis
Draft Kit Indepth Rookie Profiles February 20, 2022
Malik Willis - QB - Liberty Flames
Welcome to the rookie profile for Malik Willis. Willis is an electric playmaker with a huge ceiling in this year's draft. He's a dynamic runner who executes well on designed run plays and can use his legs to make big plays out of nothing. Willis is by far the most physically gifted of this year's Quarterback class, but this season his performances took a step back from a ball security perspective. Willis wasn't helped by his surrounding cast at Liberty and had to make a lot of difficult plays throughout the season. Willis' legs however quite often got Liberty out of difficult situations. In the NFL I see Willis as a long-term future franchise player due to his dynamic physical attributes. He would however need an offense tailored to his strengths. With patience he can become a future Pro Bowl player, however would very much depend on his landing spot.
Measurables
Height: 6′ 0.5″
40-yard dash: DNP
3-cone drill: DNP
20-yard shuttle: DNP
Vertical Jump: DNP
Broad Jump: DNP
Bench Press: DNP
Notable Headlines
Willis got off to a tricky start with his college career as many colleges viewed him more as a receiver as opposed to a Quarterback. Willis had initially accepted an offer from Virginia Tech as a receiver before accepting a late offer from Auburn as a Quarterback, but this didn't work out as planned so he quickly transferred to Liberty.
After winning the number 1 job in 2020 he has never looked back. In his 2020 season, Willis produced 2,250 passing yards with 20TDs whilst throwing 6 interceptions. These numbers admittedly don't set the world alight, what it fails to show is the true story as Willis averaged 8.5yds per attempt. He also contributed with his legs, adding 14 rushing touchdowns whilst almost hitting 1000 rush yards – leading Liberty to a 10-1 season.
2021 has seen Willis continue with his dual-threat identity in a season where he has put up 2,857 passing yards whilst rushing for 878 yards and adding a combined 40TDs on the year. He was also selected for the 2022 Reese's Senior Bowl, the last chance to audition to put his name well and truly on the radar for this year's QB draft class.
Willis is an elite athlete with a lot of power and is a patient runner with good vision when it comes to looking down the field. He is a confident passer of the ball with much-improved accuracy, showing better ball placement this year than he has done in previous years. He has excellent arm strength and can spread the ball anywhere on the field. He will step into the pocket while looking for plays downfield with the ability to reset his feet and deliver those 'Plan B' plays. A dual-threat quarterback with elite footwork and mobility and an instinctive runner with very good toughness to run through defenders (quite often using a stiff arm). Willis is also a very patient player and will not scramble more than required. It's also important to note that Willis put up good numbers behind a dismal O-line and I think with more time to throw we will see him move to the next level in his development.
Willis will have to clean up certain parts of his game, most notably his decision-making and accuracy. All too often we see Willis trying to make plays for his highlight reel and will often try and force the ball into windows that aren't there. Quite often Willis will put too much velocity onto the ball making it difficult to give his receivers a chance, like what we've seen of Trey Lance. Willis all too often will put too much air onto his plays and will need to show a lower trajectory on his deep ball to avoid turnovers in the NFL. It's also worth noting that whilst Willis is a dynamite playmaker, he can be a 'roller coaster' from week to week, totaling 19 turnovers alongside 36 ridiculous big-time throws.
Pre Draft Analysis
Expected Draft Capital- Round 1
Malik Willis will get selected in the first round of the draft and probably higher than we all expect. I have Willis as my third QB to go off the board (not too far behind Kenny Pickett) and with this in mind I would predict that we'll see either the Denver Broncos or New Orleans Saints selecting Willis. The Broncos are still looking for that franchise Quarterback that they haven't had since Peyton Manning's retirement back in March 2016, albeit Teddy Bridgewater arguably putting up the best effort since the retirement of Manning. The Saints are another franchise in rebuild mode since the retirement of Drew Brees and after missing out on the postseason for the first time since 2016, they will be looking for their future face of the franchise. Willis has all the credentials for a Sean Payton offense. Willis has the ability to make all the big arm plays that Jameis Winston can make and also the running plays we've seen from Taysom Hill. The Saints may be required to trade up for Willis as his draft stock will gain momentum as we get closer to the draft.
Post Draft Analysis
Tennessee Titans- Round 3, Pick 22
Fantasy Impact
Just like that, the former Liberty Flames QB's pre-draft hype went up in smoke as he landed with the Titans. It's highly unlikely that he's going to dislodge Ryan Tannehill as their starting quarterback.
Whilst Willis is a player to avoid in redraft leagues he's certainly a player worth targeting in dynasty leagues. This year is a season where he can learn from the experience of Ryan Tannehill and he could land that starting spot as soon as next year, if not sooner should the Titans underwhelm. Ryan Tannehill will turn 35 at the start of the 2023 season and the Titans can save just shy of $18 million if they were to cut him.
Check out the rest of the draft kit. And, as always, if you want something more specific to your league- reach out! You can find us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
Image Credit: Mark Konezny – USA TODAY Sports
Tags: Rookie QBshare:
About Luke Renton (@MCRsBLUE)
It started several years ago during a trip where I travelled the USA and found my love for American Football and the Minnesota Vikings.
I am also a big football fan and support Man City. In my spare time I love to travel and experience new cultures (and of course the food)
View all posts by Luke Renton (@MCRsBLUE) | {
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Delinquency and foreclose rates are significantly lower for borrowers with credit scores below 660 when they get their mortgage from a local community lender, according to research by Stephanie Moulton, an assistant professor at Ohio State University who specializes in low-income housing policies and programs. Local lender tend to place more weight on factors other than credit score when assessing loan applications, Moulton says. They look at how long applicants have been with their employers and whether they make regular deposits into savings accounts, among other factors. "This kind of information may give a more complete picture of whether a person can really afford a mortgage, particularly for higher-risk borrowers," Moulton says. Local Lenders are also more likely to have a relationship with the borrower through checking and saving accounts. | {
"redpajama_set_name": "RedPajamaC4"
} |
Here is the latest podcast where amongst other things we discuss Warminter's good form and the joy of winning 2 polls on Twitter!
Warminster Town has had an incredible turnaround and won 9 home games on the bounce. With this current form a top 5 finish in the table is not out of reach. Your support is greatly appreciated. | {
"redpajama_set_name": "RedPajamaC4"
} |
The world of HR is competitive. Whilst we may be operating in a people-centric sector, that doesn't mean we have qualms about getting ahead in our own careers.
HR leaders are often cited as the most overworked of all professionals, with practitioners overwhelmed by stress at least once a month. And, despite the demanding nature of the job, there's always a buzz around the office when talk of a promotion surfaces.
Picture the scene. The chance of a higher position opens up within your company – and happily, you're given the job. It's all smiles until you realize that you'll now be in charge of managing your former colleagues. Your co-workers, your friends, are now your staff.
Normally, and thankfully, most of the time your team should be happy for you. However, how do you manage an employee who also went for the promotion – and lost out to you? How do you deal with an embittered worker who wants your job?
HRD has come up with five simple steps to addressing the situation with tact and dignity.
Communication is key here. If you've just taken on a new position, you need to allow for an adjustment period. If you sense an uncomfortable vibe then feel free to organize a private meeting with the worker in question. Conflict in the workplace is nothing new – but there are new and more strategic methods of dealing with it.
A recent report from CPP found that employees spend around 2.8 hours every week involved in office conflict, surmounting to two weeks of lost productivity every year. As a new manager, can you really afford to sacrifice this much time to deal with trouble-making staff?
Make the first move and confront the employee head-on.
We're not talking about turning into some sort of corporate psychopath here – rather assert your role with confidence. There's a good reason you landed the job in the first place, just remember that and calmly stamp your authority on the team. Whatever you do, do not become angry.
Speaking to HRD earlier last year, Christine Pearson, professor of global leadership at the Thunderbird School of Global Management, explained the negative consequences rage has on a team.
Let's be honest – if someone is gunning for your job, they'll be watching and waiting for you to slip up. In order to mitigate that, always keep one step ahead. That means lots of forward planning, great time management and an eye for detail.
Lazlo Bock, former HR lead for Google, believes that one sure-fire way to get ahead and stay ahead in the workplace is to focus on both your best and your worst employees. | {
"redpajama_set_name": "RedPajamaC4"
} |
$25 Off Your First Service!
Other Names: Many species of woodpeckers, flickers, and related sapsuckers live in the United States and Arizona, often in close association with structures built in wooded areas.
Origin: These are nearly all native birds in North America, and various species may be found throughout the United States. Common species are downy, red-headed, and acorn woodpeckers, yellow-bellied sapsucker, and red-shafted or common flicker.
Biology: Woodpeckers can damage structures by pecking holes in siding in their desire to create openings for nesting or to store food materials such as acorns. They also may be a nuisance when they peck on metal rain gutters or other structural elements in what is called "drumming", which is a communication tool of the birds, often during mating season. Foods consist of a variety of nuts, acorns, seeds, fruits, and insects, and holes are pecked into trees to seek out insect larvae, as well as gathering insects on the ground or capturing them in flight. Flickers are very fond of ants, and may eat thousands at one meal, feeding most often on the ground on insects, seeds, or berries. Sapsuckers feed on the sap of trees, drilling holes close together around the trunk and major branches to access the cambium, and then lapping the sap with a brush-like tongue. Flickers picking up insects from the soil have tongues with sticky, flattened tips, while woodpeckers that drill into trees for insects may have longer tongues with barbed tips to hold the food while it is withdrawn. In mild climates most woodpeckers do not migrate, but remain permanent residents or move only slightly. Nesting is usually within a hollowed hole in a dead tree, with new holes dug and nests created each year. From 4 to 6 eggs are laid in early to mid spring, with young hatching in about 2 weeks.
Identification: Woodpeckers generally are black and white, often with red patches to varying extents on their heads. And black bars through the eye area. Flickers are more mottled brown with spotted bellies, and also with red or orange on their heads. Sapsuckers are very similar in appearance to woodpeckers. Most species have long, straight, very stout beaks, and most often will be seen resting on the vertical trunks of trees. The unique arrangement of their toes allows them easily to climb vertical surfaces, including sides of structures.
Characteristics Important in Control: All woodpeckers are classified as migratory non-game birds and are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Other than exclusion and repelling, any control that may harm the birds is permitted only under supervision of regulatory wildlife agencies, and only when depredation of structures is occurring. Most effective control is with exclusion by installation of physical devices, such as netting, which keeps birds from accessing areas of the structure where they would cause damage. Repellents also exist that can be applied to susceptible surfaces.
If you are interested in learning more about our bird control service CLICK HERE. | {
"redpajama_set_name": "RedPajamaC4"
} |
The lawsuit to be filed tomorrow will object to 23 seasons without a Bachelor or Bachelorette of color on the popular reality series.
A group of Nashville residents led by football players Nathaniel Claybrooks and Christopher Johnson said Tuesday they will file a class-action lawsuit against the ABC dating competition series The Bachelor and The Bachelorette for racial discrimination. The potential plaintiffs point out that over 10 years of the show and 23 seasons, the programs have not featured a single person of color as the featured Bachelor or Bachelorette.
Attorneys for the prospective plaintiffs put out a news release saying they will be filing a complaint in federal court on Wednesday morning against ABC, production companies Warner Horizon Television, Next Entertainment, NZK Productions and Bachelor executive producer Mike Fleiss, and they have scheduled a news conference to speak about the topic.
Claybrooks and Johnson, both African Americans, are being represented by three law firms: Barrett Johnston, Mehri & Skalet and Perkins-Law. Claybrooks is listed as a linebacker on the roster of the Nashville Storm, a minor-league team, while Johnson (not the star running back for the NFL's Tennessee Titans) played wide receiver at Tennessee State and is preparing to try out for NFL teams.
The lack of minority faces on the show has been a curiosity of some analysts even before this lawsuit, and some outlets have even made suggestions. Groups representing African Americans and Hispanics have long complained about the shortage of lead minority actors on scripted shows, but the emergence of reality television was hoped to solve issues of diversity. As Nina Tasser, president of CBS Entertainment told the Los Angeles Times in 2009, "When you're casting for an unscripted show, it's a much bigger universe and a whole different talent base."
Glen Rothstein, an attorney at Blank Rome, says a viable claim can exist if the class of would be contestants can establish that they were denied an opportunity to compete on the basis of race.
"In order to prevail, however, at a minimum, the plaintiffs will more likely than not have to present at least some additional evidence above and beyond the fact that the programs have never featured a single person of color as the Bachelor or Bachelorette," he says. "The plaintiffs will ultimately have to prove that a race based component relating to the selection process exists that was implemented in a discriminatory and unlawful manner."
"I think Ashley is 1/16th Cherokee Indian, but I cannot confirm. But that is my suspicion! We really tried, but sometimes we feel guilty of tokenism. Oh, we have to wedge African-American chicks in there! We always want to cast for ethnic diversity, it's just that for whatever reason, they don't come forward. I wish they would." | {
"redpajama_set_name": "RedPajamaC4"
} |
Research shows that happiness is a choice – you just need to learn what will make YOU happy. Like anything else, happiness is a habit that we must choose day in, and day out. Think about how much negativity is all around you from social media, the news, our colleagues, and even our friends and families! We have to take control of our happiness or else unhappiness will control us.
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Take control of your happiness now! It's YOUR time to take control of your happiness, to make joy a habit, and to live your most authentic, fulfilled life! | {
"redpajama_set_name": "RedPajamaC4"
} |
Read more by Paul Walter or more about article 50 debate, brexit, house of commons or kenneth clarke.
This entry was posted in Speeches.
Mr. Clarke can quote or paraphrase Burke with confidence – he abstained in the second reading of the European Union Referendum Bill. Some other MP's of this parish are not in the same position.
Great speech; agree with the sentiment if not all the content. Obviously parliament must be allowed full scrutiny and to my mind they must be allowed to vote in whatever way they believe is best for the country. If that means we end up staying then we stay and I will hope and believe that the this government and others to come will continue to campaign for what they believe is in the interest of Britain and the E.U.
Always liked Ken's style, even when I disagreed with him.
A truly brilliant speech and a mark of high esteem in which he is held (seemingly by all sides) judging from the way he was allowed to deliver it uninterrupted and without the usual silly comments and noises. Whether you agree with him or not, it is a contribution to be heard and considered before rejection, a view many can find much to agree with and – most importantly of all – was very much NOT a call for a second referendum either now or at any other time!
As I write, I am now cheering on Mr Clarke in the current debate – he has just spoken in favour of the Harman amendment to protect the rights of non-EU citizens.
However, I am not of the opinion that he should have been a LibDem, nor that LibDems should adopt a policy platform that he would advocate (except in one or two areas).
He does, though, speak for a historic incarnation of the Tory party that has – by and large – ceased to exist, and it is probable therefore that people who might have sought out that party in the past have rallied to our colours.
Much as I have a lot of time for Ken Clarke, he's factually wrong about this.
My emphasis on that last one.
We all know the referendum was "advisory" in a very narrow legal sense. But morally? No way.
…So everything that was put to parliament emphasised the advisory nature of the referendum, and _some_ things that were put to the people _implied_ it was not advisory. Cameron is at fault.
Now we can argue about the meaning of the word 'respect,' but as far as MPs elected on that manifesto go, that's pretty clear to me.
More generally here, let's face it. A big driver for that vote was the perception (at least) that the political classes stick two fingers up at people. I really don't see how confirming the perception helps anyone. You are absolutely right of course that in legal terms that referendum wasn't binding. However politically the voters are free to make of ignoring the referendum what they wish.
Well, it seems clear to me that it proves the claim that David Cameron was being duplicitous, trying to say two entirely different things to different groups of people (the MPs vs the public) and hoping that circumstances would mean that his lie was never caught out.
In this he was basically playing the part of Max Bialystock and Leopold Bloom, with their two sets of ledgers, trying to put on a flop just for show and then pocket the cash — or in this case, pocket the reputation of being the Prime Minister who finally sorted out the UK's place in Europe.
Unexpectedly, of course, his production turned out to be a hit, which meant that his deception quickly unravelled as the various groups to whom he had made his mutually incompatible promises came to collect.
No wonder he quit ASAP after the vote: he knew that his quick tongue had finally talked himself into a position from which there was no escape, and preferred to head off to Rio while there was still time, leaving his successor to clean up the mess.
Anyway, this means he leaves two groups of creditors to which he promised incompatible returns: Parliament, and the majority of the public who voted 'Leave'.
Which one will be first in line to collect the cheque? Well, I think it's been pretty much decided that it's the 'Leave' voters, and the MPs are going to be the ones left clutching their now-worthless share certificates.
@LJP – It is also worth remembering that the courts effectively put manifesto promises on the same level as gambling debts.
A long standing member of the Conservative Party, I have now joined the Lib Dems. I read French and German at Oxford – ages ago ( I am about the same age as ~Ken Clarke). I am passionately pro Europe and agree with everything Ken said. Before this I was a "Pink" Tory. I like neither the Far Right nor the Far Left – just a bit more scared of the Far Left. The last coalition government was excellent, because the Lib Dem presence kept the Tory extreme Right in check. However messy coalition government may seem, I think that we need proper proportional representation in this country in order to bring back power to the moderate (and I say it unashamedly) more intelligent centre.
LJP and Dav, the problem here is that Cameron allowed a situation where the nature of 'leaving' was deliberately undefined (I suspect this was because a) he did not care to do so and b) it allowed him to attack it in any way he wanted) and there was no clarity about the speed with which he would proceed to do so, should he the need to respond in such terms to the legally advisory but implicitly instructionary referendum.
… and then disappeared, expecting to leave a lingering vacuum that would slow down the process, but actually causing such chaos that he ushered in a successor who decided to redefine the referendum result exactly how they wanted, who had remained largely unenthusiastic and aloof from the referendum campaigns, and therefore whose opinions had effectively remained unknown and untested in the public forum, and therefore unmandated.
The document you quote (from the impartial House of Commons Library, not the Government) merely confirms what I have already acknowledged – that in a legal sense the referendum was non-binding. Of course it was.
Given how utterly unworkable the alternative would be, I think that's a good thing.
Stuart, my personal view is that, having had the referendum, it is hard to argue for an unconditional resumption of EU membership on the previous terms. I do not take the Clarke view that all referenda are alien to UK constitutional process; having devolved even an element of participation to a consultative/advisory referendum would place pressure on any government to take serious and meaningful consideration of it.
I am not arguing that referendum being advisory means it can be ignored.
However, the significant problem for me is (and I agree that our own MPs, and many MPs from many parties, failed to argue for this strenuously enough before the referendum) that the referendum failed to clarify the form and the timing that exiting the EU would involve, and that (narrow) result is being waved in the faces of those who voted Remain by people who now wish to define the nature of leaving as a fait accompli with no meaningful further consultation.
The vagueness of the Referendum question meant that a vote to leave could not be definitive, because it did not define the form of leaving.
There are people who are arguing that any deviation right now from a precipitate course of leaving with as much symbolic and real separation as possible from the EU and its institutions is a betrayal of the 'moral' mandate of the referendum. This is not the case.
What is more annoying is that some of these are people – particularly on the Tory side – who clearly assumed that the referendum would be won by Remain, or that arguing for Leave was just a bargaining tool to go back to the EU and renegotiate even better terms.
That is why Clarke is refreshing, as he blows away this nonsense.
Matt (Bristol) – I'm a bit in two minds. The first paragraph of your 5:30 post I think I'd mostly agree with. The second paragraph about, 'unmandated,' is a weak effort at a procedural duck. If that's a problem then what Corbyn and Farron need to do is call for an election and explicitly commit to abrogating the Fixed-Term Parliament Act. As far as I'm aware neither has done so.
On the rest of it, I think that there was always a certainty that any LEAVE would be conditioned by the rest of the EU. Perhaps that wasn't talked about in detail, but I think it was always there. My guess (and I stress it's a guess, I claim no evidence) is that despite what was said in public there were pre-negotiations and there were informal discussions. Those then conditioned the May speech and plan. The European Commission's failures on stewarding A50 have caused a lot of problems in this picture.
More generally as I said earlier given that a driver for that referendum result was the sense that politicians don't care about people's views I don't think reinforcing the perception is a good idea.
Even more generally however I'm just bothered that REMAINers seem determined to repeat their own mistakes. Raising points of procedural nicety is all well and good but the stark reality is that there weren't all that many people, LEAVE or REMAIN, belting out Ode to Joy on referendum day. Is the argument that the EU is all A-OK, which appears to be the Farron line? Is it that it's OK in the round, but not great, which seemed to be the Corbyn line? Or is it that things can and should be different? What I wanted to hear from REMAIN was how it planned to address the concerns at the referendum which clearly extended well beyond internal Tory melodrama. What is the EU that the public-at-large wants? No one seemed to want to tell me what that is or what it looks like, still less what could be done to enthuse people. REMAIN's argument seemed to be 'vote for the EU – it's not all that awful.' Months on after that referendum I don't really know what leave looks like. But to be honest REMAIN's 'more of the same' isn't really any the better.
Welcome to the Liberal Democrats! I hope wherever you live, you have been made welcome….
I agree 100% with you that electoral reform and fair votes would make a huge difference to politics in this country, including reducing the feelings of alienation in many communities that have led to the Brexit vote.
LJP – mypersonal view is that the EU could have been better with collective action by leaders across the continent, but Cameron p*ssed away that opportunity by repeatedly failing to create a bloc of likeminded countries with a common version of reform, because he always (and Tory strategy historically has usually been in this direct) favoured a unilateral approach that gave him the free hand for further improvisation if he saw fit.
2) A Norway-style deal with a loss of direct control, but the retention of indirect control and influence and the possibility of rebuilding a bloc of countries with a common cause.
I guess what I am arguing for is some way of rebuilding and renewing the old concept of a 'two-track Europe'. (In the past, I honestly recognise that in an ideal world I would have preferred UK membership of the 'inner track', but that was lost years ago). However much European leaders may argue that that is not possible, it clearly is possible, because it exists. Pragmatic, Kenneth Clarke-esque, leadership, would try to build on this fact and create a common Eruopean recognition of it as a necessity.
But now May's leadership has blown the chances of that happening too.
It look like the UK will continue to end up with various leaders who will come up with variants on Cameron's 'I'm a winner' delusionalism, convinced that somehow we can drive a better deal than has ever existed, that always works for us in all circumstances, because we are 'special'. The UK have been unique (in certain senses of the word), but it is not 'special', and has no special destiny. The Tory flailing embrace of the duplicitous American-egotist Trump (if carried through) may finally teach us that lesson, but I doubt it.
I hope never to be invited to vote in a referendum again. So, as a resident of Surrey, I am pleased to see that my county council has withdrawn it's proposal for a referendum on its council tax precept.
Sorry, not sure how the unwanted apostrophe found its way into the last sentence!.
If you are against any and all referendums, how do you think the constitutional question of Scottish independence should have been settled?
It is none of my business; i do not live in Scotland. But no history book which I have read makes any mention of a referendum on either side of the border prior to the Act of Union in 1707.
Do you think people (on either side of the question) these days would respect the result of a 1707-style political process as legitimate?
If not, how do you suggest the matter should have been settled, such that all sides would accept it as legitimate [or at least, not as more illegitimate than the SNP currently do]?
Nick Collins – this where I depart from my admiration for Ken Clarke – one cannot embrace an unwritten constitution and argue for paleoconsitutionalism, ruling out all innovation unconditionally. The two are untenable, imho.
Also: did you express your objection to referendums in 2011? Or were you okay with them then?
Is your objection to the process, or to the result?
@ Dav I took very little interest in the referendum in 2011. I saw little to choose between AV and FPTP and regarded the process for making that choice as a farce.
If your second question refers to last year's nonsense, the answer is "both". Did you really need to ask?
@ Matt (Bristol). So we shall have to agree to disagree then.
And, Matt, A considered objection to referenda does not equate to "ruling out all innovation unconditionally". I am glad that your assertion was made with humility since, otherwise, it would have been offensive.
Looking at the Brexit referendum last June, Gove, Johnson et al certainly fit the description of a parcel of rogues.
On a different subject, much to my surprise, Corbyn got the better of May at PMQ's today. A very shaky performance by St. Teresa.
You make a lot of good points, and it's certainly astonishing in retrospect just how little discussion there was prior to the referendum about how Brexit would take place in the event of a Leave vote. How many people had even heard of Article 50 before June 23rd? As my quote from Tom Brake makes very clear, even Lib Dem MPs seemed to think that the referendum, whatever the result, would at least draw a line under the whole thing and be an end to uncertainty! How could everybody have got it so wrong?
Nick, I'm sorry for any offence. I reacted primarily to your comment on precedents for a referendum; I appreciate you did not specify whether or not you favoured any non-refererendum-esque innovation, but (to me) you seemed to imply that the reason you disliked referenda was because they were innovations..
Apology accepted, Matt. I don't think anything I said should be taken to imply that my objection to referenda is that they are an innovation. I appreciate that our constitution was evolving in 1707, has continued to evolve since and will hopefully, if it survives, evolve further in the future. But referenda are a mutation which i should prefer not to see replicated.
I take the view that now the genie is out of the bottle, after 30-odd years of usage, they are now part of the constitution. What is lacking and must be made up, is more clear guidance on how they are to be used. Which a written constitution would provide.
Interestingly, presumably those people who are complaining that there should be a requirement for a majority of 66%, or more, in a referendum, for any change to the constitution, would logically have to argue that that should apply to any future referendum on Scottish independence, right?
So such people, if their argument were accepted, could help save the UK from break-up, if Brexit caused (a) a second Scottish referendum that (b) was, say, 55% in favour of independence.
I don't know about genies. Today's Guardian describes them as "cuckoos in the nest of parliamentary sovereignty". I think that is more apposite.
Despite my aversion to referenda, i think that the Scots deserve their chance to seek to negotiate continued membership of the EU as an independent nation if that is what they choose to do. And I think it would be a little unfair, at this stage, to raise the bar which they need to surmount in the exercise of such a choice.
One last referendum within the UK before it breaks up and the southern portion thereof exits the EU: a fitting end to the process which we started when we embarked on last year's folly, don't you think?
So why, logically, do you think it would be fair to have raised the bar which those who wished the UK to leave the EU needed to surmount?
It seems to me you are basing your views on what the process should be on how much you like the outcome, which is totally the wrong way around!
I have made no mention of raising the bar for any referendum. Please stop trying to put words in my mouth and please do not ask me to defend a position which i do not hold.
I have not called for a referendum on STV. Have I not already made it clear that I do not support referenda? So the question of a threshold does not arise.
Nice try , but no cigar.
I have just watched a recording Ken Clarke's recent Brexit speech (29th January, 2018) at the Commons, shown on BBC Parliament and available on BBCi. Whilst I was looking for a transcript of it I came across another of his speeches, dating back to the same time last year and about the vote on Article 50.
I thought it fantastic that you had published that speech (I remember listening to bits of it at the time, and found it both persuasive and entertaining).
Are you planning to publish a transcript of that more recent Brexit speech? Since it supports your position on the EU, I really hope that you are. | {
"redpajama_set_name": "RedPajamaC4"
} |
package arteria.core
import java.nio.ByteBuffer
import java.util.concurrent.atomic.AtomicInteger
import boopickle.Default._
import scala.collection.immutable.IntMap
object MessageRouter {
final val MessageTag = 0x1
final val MessageMask = 0xFFFFFFF0
final val MessageShift = 4
final val StartTag = 0x2
final val EndTag = 0x3
final val RouterChannelId = 0
sealed trait ChannelState {
def canSend: Boolean
}
case object StateOpening extends ChannelState {
override def canSend: Boolean = true
}
case object StateEstablished extends ChannelState {
override def canSend: Boolean = true
}
case object StateClosed extends ChannelState {
override def canSend: Boolean = false
}
case object StateClosing extends ChannelState {
override def canSend: Boolean = false
}
case class Channel(channel: MessageChannelBase, state: ChannelState)
/**
* Base trait for internal router messages
*/
sealed trait RouterMessage extends Message
case class EstablishRoute(isPrimary: Boolean) extends RouterMessage
case class EstablishChannel(channelGlobalId: Int, channelId: Int, parentGlobalId: Int) extends RouterMessage
case class ChannelEstablished(channelGlobalId: Int) extends RouterMessage
case class CloseChannel(channelGlobalId: Int) extends RouterMessage
case class ChannelClosed(channelGlobalId: Int) extends RouterMessage
implicit val rmPickler = compositePickler[RouterMessage]
.addConcreteType[EstablishRoute]
.addConcreteType[EstablishChannel]
.addConcreteType[ChannelEstablished]
.addConcreteType[CloseChannel]
.addConcreteType[ChannelClosed]
}
/**
* Interface for a message router
*/
trait MessageRouterBase extends MessageChannelBase {
/**
* Sends a message over to the other side.
*
* @param message Message to be sent
* @param channelGlobalId Global channel identifier
* @param messagePickler Pickler for the message type
*/
def send(message: Message, channelGlobalId: Int)(implicit messagePickler: Pickler[Message]): Unit
/**
* Returns the next available global channel identifier
*
* @return
*/
def nextGlobalId: Int
/**
* Establish a channel between this and the remote router.
*
* @param channel Channel to be established
* @param context Context to be passed to the materialized channel on the other side.
* @param metadata Metadata to be passed to the parent channel on the other side to assist in
* materializing the correct channel.
* @param cPickler Pickler for context
* @param mdPickler Pickler for metadata
* @tparam C Type of the channel context
* @tparam MD Type of the materialization metadata
* @return
*/
def establishChannel[C, MD](channel: MessageChannelBase, context: C, metadata: MD)(
implicit cPickler: Pickler[C],
mdPickler: Pickler[MD]): MessageChannelBase
/**
* Closes a channel
*
* @param channelGlobalId Global channel identifier
*/
def closeChannel(channelGlobalId: Int): Unit
}
/**
* Message router is a special message channel that sits underneath all other channels. It handles the actual
* pickling of channel and control messages and maintains an internal list of active channels. When a message
* is received, the router will route it to the correct `MessageChannel` instance.
*
* @param handler Handler for this router instance
* @param isPrimary Set to `true` is this is the primary router. The other router will then be the secondary
* @tparam MaterializeChild Type for materialization metadata, used when creating new channels under the router
*/
class MessageRouter[MaterializeChild: Pickler](handler: MessageRouterHandler[MaterializeChild], isPrimary: Boolean)
extends MessageRouterBase {
import MessageRouter._
protected[core] var globalChannels = IntMap[Channel](0 -> Channel(this, StateOpening))
protected[core] val globalChannelIdx = new AtomicInteger(if (isPrimary) 1 else 2)
protected var pickleState: PickleState = _
protected var pendingCount = 0
override def id = RouterChannelId
override def globalId: Int = id
override def parent = this
override lazy val router = this
// create initial pickle state
reset()
// establish the route
send(EstablishRoute(isPrimary))
/**
* Resets by creating a new pickle state
*/
def reset(): Unit = {
// reset state
pickleState = handler.pickleStateFactory
pickleState.enc.writeInt(StartTag)
pendingCount = 0
}
/**
* Checks if there are pending messages that have not been flushed.
*
* @return
*/
def hasPending = pendingCount > 0
/**
* Returns a `PickleState` containing serialized messages and resets the state. This allows
* the caller to continue pickling other data into the same stream.
*/
def flushState(): PickleState = {
// mark end of messages
pickleState.enc.writeInt(EndTag)
val ps = pickleState
reset()
ps
}
/**
* Returns a `ByteBuffer` containing serialized messages and reset state
*/
def flush(): ByteBuffer = {
flushState().toByteBuffer
}
/**
* Processes received data
*
* @param data A `ByteBuffer` containing messages to process
*/
def receive(data: ByteBuffer): Unit = {
receive(handler.unpickleStateFactory(data))
}
/**
* Processes received data.
*
* @param unpickleState An `UnpickleState` containing messages to process
*/
def receive(unpickleState: UnpickleState): Unit = {
// check we have a correct header
val start = unpickleState.dec.readInt
if (start != StartTag)
throw new IllegalStateException(f"Message stream did not start with StartTag (found $start%08x)")
// process all incoming messages
var endOfMessages = false
while (!endOfMessages) {
val tag = unpickleState.dec.readInt
tag & ~MessageMask match {
case MessageTag =>
val channelId = (tag & MessageMask) >> MessageShift
globalChannels.get(channelId) match {
case Some(Channel(channel, state)) if state == StateOpening || state == StateEstablished =>
channel.receive(new ChannelReaderImpl(unpickleState))
case Some(Channel(channel, StateClosing)) =>
// channel is closing drop incoming messages
channel.receiveDrop(new ChannelReaderImpl(unpickleState))
case Some(Channel(_, StateClosed)) =>
// channel is gone, cannot read its messages
throw new IllegalStateException(s"Received a message for a closed channel ($channelId)")
case None =>
throw new IllegalStateException(s"Encountered unknown channel ID ($channelId) in stream")
}
case StartTag =>
throw new IllegalStateException("Unexpected StartTag in stream")
case EndTag =>
endOfMessages = true
case unknown =>
throw new IllegalStateException(f"Encountered unknown tag type $unknown%08x in stream")
}
}
}
override def receive(channelReader: ChannelReader): Unit = {
val msg = channelReader.read[RouterMessage]
process(msg, channelReader)
}
override def receiveDrop(channelReader: ChannelReader): Unit = {
channelReader.read[RouterMessage]
()
}
override def send(message: Message, channelGlobalId: Int)(implicit messagePickler: Pickler[Message]): Unit = {
globalChannels.get(channelGlobalId) match {
case Some(Channel(channel, state)) if state.canSend =>
pendingCount += 1
pickleState.enc.writeInt((channelGlobalId << MessageShift) | MessageTag)
pickleState.pickle(message)
handler.messagesPending(pendingCount)
case _ =>
println(s"Channel $channelGlobalId cannot send messages")
// ignore otherwise
}
}
private def send(message: RouterMessage): Unit = {
pickleState.enc.writeInt(id | MessageTag)
pickleState.pickle(message)
}
def process(message: RouterMessage, channelReader: ChannelReader): Unit = {
message match {
case EstablishRoute(otherIsPrimary) =>
println(f"Route established")
if (otherIsPrimary == isPrimary)
throw new IllegalStateException("Both routers are trying to be primary")
globalChannels = globalChannels.updated(globalId, Channel(this, StateEstablished))
case EstablishChannel(channelGlobalId, channelId, parentGlobalId) =>
globalChannels.get(parentGlobalId) match {
case Some(Channel(parent, StateEstablished)) =>
println(f"Establish channel: $channelGlobalId%08x - $channelId%08x parent $parentGlobalId%08x")
send(ChannelEstablished(channelGlobalId))
val channel = parent.materializeChildChannel(channelId, channelGlobalId, channelReader)
globalChannels = globalChannels.updated(channelGlobalId, Channel(channel, StateEstablished))
channel.establishing()
channel.established()
case Some(Channel(_, _)) =>
throw new IllegalArgumentException(s"EstablishChannel: Parent channel $parentGlobalId was not established")
case None =>
throw new IllegalArgumentException(s"EstablishChannel: Parent channel $parentGlobalId was not found")
}
case ChannelEstablished(channelGlobalId) =>
globalChannels.get(channelGlobalId) match {
case Some(Channel(channel, StateOpening)) =>
println(f"Channel $channelGlobalId%08x established")
globalChannels = globalChannels.updated(channelGlobalId, Channel(channel, StateEstablished))
channel.established()
case Some(Channel(_, _)) =>
// ignore other states
case None =>
throw new IllegalArgumentException(s"ChannelEstablished: Channel $channelGlobalId was not found")
}
case CloseChannel(channelGlobalId) =>
println(f"Channel $channelGlobalId%08x is closing")
globalChannels.get(channelGlobalId) match {
case Some(Channel(channel, state)) if state == StateClosed =>
// channel is already closed on our side, do nothing
case Some(Channel(channel, _)) if channel.id == RouterChannelId =>
// router is closing down
handler.routerWillClose()
case Some(Channel(channel, _)) =>
channel.parent.channelClosed(channel.id)
globalChannels = globalChannels.updated(channelGlobalId, Channel(channel, StateClosed))
send(ChannelClosed(channelGlobalId))
case None =>
throw new IllegalArgumentException(s"CloseChannel: Channel $channelGlobalId was not found")
}
case ChannelClosed(channelGlobalId) =>
println(f"Channel $channelGlobalId%08x is closed")
globalChannels.get(channelGlobalId) match {
case Some(Channel(channel, StateClosing)) =>
channel.parent.channelClosed(channel.id)
globalChannels = globalChannels.updated(channelGlobalId, Channel(null, StateClosed))
case Some(Channel(channel, state)) =>
throw new IllegalStateException(s"Channel ${channel.globalId} is not in closing state [$state]")
case None =>
throw new IllegalArgumentException(s"ChannelClosed: Channel $channelGlobalId was not found")
}
}
}
override def nextGlobalId: Int = globalChannelIdx.getAndAdd(2)
override def establishChannel[C, MD](channel: MessageChannelBase, context: C, metadata: MD)(
implicit cPickler: Pickler[C],
mdPickler: Pickler[MD]): MessageChannelBase = {
globalChannels = globalChannels.updated(channel.globalId, Channel(channel, StateOpening))
send(EstablishChannel(channel.globalId, channel.id, channel.parent.globalId))
// append metadata
pickleState.pickle(metadata)(mdPickler)
// append context
pickleState.pickle(context)(cPickler)
channel
}
def closeChannel(channelGlobalId: Int): Unit = {
globalChannels.get(channelGlobalId) match {
case Some(channel) =>
globalChannels = globalChannels.updated(channelGlobalId, channel.copy(state = StateClosing))
// send a message to my counterpart
send(CloseChannel(channelGlobalId))
case None =>
throw new IllegalArgumentException(s"Channel $channelGlobalId is not recognized")
}
}
/**
* Creates a new child channel with the given protocol and parameters
*
* @param protocol Protocol for the new child channel
* @param handler Handler for the channel
* @param context Context to be passed to the channel
* @param materializeChild Metadata that is used to materialize the channel at the other end
* @tparam CP Protocol type
* @return Newly created channel
*/
def createChannel[CP <: Protocol](
protocol: CP)(handler: MessageChannelHandler[CP], context: CP#ChannelContext, materializeChild: MaterializeChild)(
implicit materializeChildPickler: Pickler[MaterializeChild]): MessageChannel[CP] = {
val channelId = channelIdx.getAndIncrement()
val channelGlobalId = router.nextGlobalId
val channel = new MessageChannel(protocol)(channelId, channelGlobalId, this, handler, context)
subChannels = subChannels.updated(channelId, channel)
// inform our counterpart
router.establishChannel(channel, context, materializeChild)(
protocol.contextPickler.asInstanceOf[Pickler[CP#ChannelContext]],
materializeChildPickler
)
handler.establishing(channel)
channel
}
protected[core] override def materializeChildChannel(channelId: Int,
globalId: Int,
channelReader: ChannelReader): MessageChannelBase = {
val subMetadata = channelReader.read[MaterializeChild]
val channel = handler.materializeChildChannel(channelId, globalId, this, subMetadata, channelReader).get
channel
}
protected[core] override def channelClosed(channelId: Int): Unit = {
handler.channelWillClose(channelId)
}
}
| {
"redpajama_set_name": "RedPajamaGithub"
} |
Bus service on the decline
Tricolour Express has decreased in sales since Megabus expanded
Savoula Stylianou
Retail services director Jeff Heenan says if ticket sales continue to decline, Tricolour Express could move to a ticket-agency model.
Justin Chin
In the past two years, Tricolour Express has seen a 30 per cent decline in ticket sales.
The bus service is part of the AMS's Tricolour Outlet, and operates routes to cities including Toronto and Montreal.
Last year, Tricolour Express brought in about a third of Tricolour Outlet's overall revenue.
AMS retail services director Jeff Heenan said the Express was successful until 2009, when Megabus entered the Ontario student travel space. It was this year that Megabus expanded to Toronto and Montreal.
Ridership on the Tricolour Express has declined from 17,409 students in 2009-10 to 12,728 in 2010-11.
"It's kind of a bizarre situation where our biggest partner in all of this is also one of our biggest competitors in all of this," said Heenan, ArtSci '10.
Megabus is operated by Coach Canada, a company that partners with Tricolour Express.
Heenan said that Tricolour Express ridership was down by 29 per cent to Toronto, 58 per cent to Montreal and four per cent to Ottawa.
"The four per cent is probably because Megabus doesn't have a direct route to Ottawa."
If ridership continues to decline, Heenan said he's looked into other ways Tricolour Express can meet students' travel needs.
"Obviously, cutting the Express would change the way that Tricolour's budget looks, and it would have an effect on our bottom line," he said. "But, it wouldn't be an insurmountable obstacle to overcome. Tricolour Express has decreased in sales since Megabus expanded to overcome."
Heenan said the AMS's three-year contract with Coach Canada expires in 2013.
"If we did move forward with something like that it probably wouldn't happen for at least another year, and probably two years, just based on our contract with Coach Canada," he said.
One option would be for Tricolour Express to become a ticket agency, he said.
"You would still come into the store and get your tickets, but instead of getting a Tricolour Express ticket, you would get a Greyhound or a Coach Canada or a Megabus ticket," he said.
If Queen's were to adopt this ticket-agency model, Heenan said, it would still be a priority to have on-campus pickups.
Under the ticket agency model, Tricolour Express wouldn't collect revenue from ticket sales.
"We would pay Coach Canada and they would send us a commission," Heenan said. "The profit from sales might increase."
Laurier, Waterloo, Brock and McMaster use the ticket agency model.
In April, the Journal reported that Tricolour Express planned to begin online ticket sales.
Heenan said this won't be happening in the near future. Tricolour Express is the first agency in North America to be using a new browser based portal brought in by Coach Canada.
"The new system is actually very similar to how you would buy tickets online, only it's tweaked because you don't put in your credit card information, you pay [Tricolour Express] in cash," he said.
Tricolour Express was up by 5.8 per cent in revenue this September compared to last September's revenue.
"Last year in September, it was $103,000. This year in September it was $109,000," Heenan said.
The increase in ticket sales resulted from the new portal that allowed Tricolour Express to sell tickets further in advance, he said.
"In the past, we were only able to sell tickets a week before the departure date and now we can sell tickets 45 days before the departure date," he said.
A Tricolour Express ticket to Toronto or Montreal is $40 and a ticket to Ottawa is $28.
Heenan added that students probably bought tickets to go home for Thanksgiving in September. All Tricolour Express buses were sold out for the Thanksgiving weekend.
However, October and November have seen Tricolour Express sales decline.
"For the month of October, the bus was down about 10 per cent versus the month of October last year … I know that we're down somewhat for the month of November," Heenan said.
Tricolour express
Tricolour Outlet
Strength in numbers is clear for Queen's female politicians
AMS seeks to reinstate jobs lost after Student Choice Initiative | {
"redpajama_set_name": "RedPajamaCommonCrawl"
} |
Pre-order of Feuer Fry EP. You get 2 tracks now (streaming via the free Bandcamp app and also available as a high-quality download in MP3, FLAC and more), plus the complete album the moment it's released.
Part III of "The Speed*Coreboard Years" | {
"redpajama_set_name": "RedPajamaC4"
} |
1/03/2007 · I can't start Freight mission. I enter the train at the main railway station but after pressing 2 (taxi/paramedic mission button), nothing happens.... Question for Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas. Is it possible to get a ride in a taxi instead of stealing it? Like being able to be in the backseat while the taxi driver takes you to where you want to go.
GTA: San Andreas Truck liveries V2 Od chipmonk 178 · 6 GTA: Vice City - GASH Blimp Od chipmonk 195 · 6 Union Pacific livery for Freight Train Od chipmonk 420 · 15 Solo Jazz Cup Massacro Od chipmonk 77 · 8 THORNS Race Skin (Massacro2) 2.0 Od chipmonk 182 · 6... The Freight Train is pack of 6 GTA V railroad models: freight locomotive, flatcar, boxcar, tank car and 2 cotainer flatcars. - Replaces Freight (ID 537), Freiflat (ID 569), Freibox (ID 590) and addes 3 new IDs.
There are 4 ways to get from Santa Cruz to San Andreas by bus, taxi, train or car. Select an option below to see step-by-step directions and to compare ticket prices and travel times in …... go to a Train Station, wait for a train to pull up. stand by the front end of the train and Jack it as you would a car. you can then drive the train. alternatively jacking the train from further back will get you a ride on the train, but you wont be able to control it.
This is a completely re-modeled Freight locomotive based on the original from GTA:San Andreas. Simple as that. Simple as that. This file most likely won't …... Description: the other type of train that pulls freight carriages. You can jump on the back and take a ride, or jack it and use it to do the Freight Train mission. You can jump on the back and take a ride, or jack it and use it to do the Freight Train mission.
For Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas on the PlayStation 2, a GameFAQs message board topic titled "frieght missons".
Question for Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas. Is it possible to get a ride in a taxi instead of stealing it? Like being able to be in the backseat while the taxi driver takes you to where you want to go.
Eventualy you will come to a barier disabeling you to get to the next island therefore slowing down the train but if you hold down the accelerator and your going fast enough you will smash streight through the barier as if it wasnt there. | {
"redpajama_set_name": "RedPajamaC4"
} |
Great location. Property was remodel in 2007 including , roof , electrical, insulation, drywall, windows, doors, cabinets, air condition, heater and flooring . Very good tenant . Please do not disturb tenant .!
From HWY 80 to Marysville Blvd to North Ave. | {
"redpajama_set_name": "RedPajamaC4"
} |
using System;
namespace Mozu.Api.Contracts.ProductAdmin
{
///
/// Properties of the attribute type rule.
///
public class AttributeTypeRule
{
///
///The data type of the attribute. There are four valid data types: "Bool", "DateTime", "Number", "String"
///
public string AttributeDataType { get; set; }
///
///An attribute's data type would be either "NotSpecified", "Textbox", "Textarea", "Date", "DateTime", "Dropdown", "Listbox", "Radio", "Currency", or "Checkbox" and will be a valid value defined in the type rules resource.
///
public string AttributeInputType { get; set; }
///
///Describes how an attribute will be used. Valid types are "Extra", "Option", and "Property".
///
public string AttributeUsageType { get; set; }
///
///An attribute value type is either predefined vocabulary by the admin during product attribute set up or it can be "AdminEntered" or "ShopperEntered". The difference between predefined values versus manually entered values is such that the first choice is a set of options to choose from. AdminEntered and ShopperEntered are values that are entered rather than system-supplied and are not stored in the database, but captured during a live commerce operations such as during an order.
///
public string AttributeValueType { get; set; }
}
} | {
"redpajama_set_name": "RedPajamaGithub"
} |
LOUISIANA EX REL. WASHINGTON v. WALKER, WARDEN.
Robert H. Reiter and Jack N. Rogers for appellant.
Jack P. F. Gremillion, Attorney General of Louisiana, and Scallan E. Walsh, Assistant Attorney General, for appellee. | {
"redpajama_set_name": "RedPajamaC4"
} |
Die Diazotypie ist ein silberloses fotografisches Lichtpausverfahren. Nach einer ehemaligen Marke des Papiers Ozalid wurde die Diazotypie auch Ozalidkopie genannt. Mit diesem Verfahren hergestellte Werke werden als Lichtpause bezeichnet.
Die Diazotypie ist ein Positiv-Verfahren, bei dem dunkle Linien der Vorlage auf einem hellen Träger ebenfalls dunkel werden. Es bildet sich ein Polymer mit Azofarbstoff. Es wird ohne Emulsion gearbeitet; die Färbung entsteht in einem trockenen Prozess unter Ammoniakdämpfen unmittelbar auf dem Träger.
Als Träger können Papier (auch Transparentpapier, hier Mutterpause genannt), Kunststoff (Cellophan, Cellulose-Acetat, Polyester u. a., hier Filmpause genannt) oder Textilien dienen. Die Mutter- bzw. Filmpausen hatten den Vorteil, dass sie wieder als Original bearbeitet und zur Vervielfältigung eingesetzt werden konnten.
Die Diazotypie ist relativ matt, je nach Produkt dunkelviolett oder dunkelbraun. Je nach Belichtung und Transparenz des Originals erscheint der Hintergrund weiß bis violett- oder braungrau.
Diazotypien auf Transparentpapier können als Zwischen-Negativ für weitere Vervielfältigungen benutzt werden. Der chemische Ablauf unterscheidet sich von der Cyanotypie, der Blaupause.
Geschichte
Die in den 1880er Jahren patentierten Verfahren waren noch Negativverfahren mit Nassentwicklung, die hauptsächlich für die Textilindustrie Verwendung fanden. Seit den 1890er Jahren werden nur noch Positivverfahren angewandt. 1917(?) führte die Chemische Fabrik Kalle & Co. AG die Ozalid-Kopie ein. Sie war von dem Benediktiner-Pater Gustav Kögel (* 1882 in München; † 1945 in Karlsruhe) erfunden worden. Sie basiert auf einem lichtempfindlichen Papier mit großer Stabilität vor der Belichtung und hoher Lichtempfindlichkeit für scharfe Reproduktionen.
Die Bezeichnung Ozalid ist abgeleitet von der rückwärts gelesenen Vorsilbe Diazo (Diazotypie, Azofarbstoff), in die man zur besseren Aussprechbarkeit noch ein "l" einfügte.
1920 brachte Kalle den ersten Trockenprozess auf den Markt, bei dem die Entwicklung durch Ammoniakdämpfe erfolgte. Als nach dem Zweiten Weltkrieg die Patente ausliefen, entstanden zahlreiche Verfahren auf dieser Basis, seit den 1940er Jahren auch mit dem Prinzip der Entwicklung durch Wärme.
Funktionsweise
Diazoemulsionen enthalten lichtempfindliche Farbkuppler, die bei der Belichtung in nicht mehr kupplungsfähige Bestandteile zerfallen. Chemisch handelt es sich um ein Photopolymer-Verfahren, mit einer photochemischen Umlagerung (Wolff-Umlagerung) von 2-Aminophenolen zum Cyclopentadien. Die lichtempfindliche Grundsubstanz sind Diazoniumsalze (Stickstoff-Verbindungen). Bei der Entwicklung entsteht an den unbelichteten Stellen ein positives Farbstoffbild.
Das Original wird als transparenter Film auf ein so genanntes Diazo-Papier gelegt und mit einer UV-Lampe belichtet. Das Diazo-Papier ist mit einer UV-Licht-empfindlichen Oberfläche versehen. An den Stellen, an denen im Original dunkle Zeichnungselemente vorhanden sind, die kein Licht passieren lassen, bleibt die Diazoschicht erhalten. An allen anderen Stellen zerfällt die Schicht durch die Wirkung des Lichtes in eine farblose Verbindung.
Das belichtete Papier wird nun Ammoniak-Dämpfen ausgesetzt. Die noch bestehende Diazo-Schicht reagiert mit dem Ammoniak und bildet einen Diazo-Farbstoff. Belichtete Stellen bleiben hell. Der restliche Ammoniak verflüchtigt sich und die Kopie bleibt trocken, deshalb spricht man hier auch vom Trockenpausverfahren.
Einsatzgebiete
Diazotypie war für die Vervielfältigungen von technischen Zeichnungen besonders geeignet und daher in den Ingenieurwissenschaften (z. B. Maschinenbau, Bauingenieurwesen und Architektur) bis etwa 1990 weit verbreitet. Die Originale wurden mit Tusche auf Pergamentpapier, später auch auf speziellen Folien erstellt. Mutterpausen und Originale auf Transparent-/Pergamentpapier konnten auch mit der Rasierklinge bearbeitet und verändert werden; Papierpausen ließen sich bedingt auch radieren. Ein weiterer Vorteil der Diazotypie sowohl auf Papier wie auf Transparent ist, dass die Wiedergabe praktisch 1:1 ohne Verschiebung des Maßstabes möglich ist, da das Druckverfahren ohne Heißfixierung auskommt und damit das Material nicht schrumpft oder sich ausdehnt.
Die Diazotypie war weiterhin auch als Proof für Druckvorlagen und für die Präsentation von Grafiken bei Vorträgen beliebt. Auch bei der Herstellung von Druckplatten (Offsetdruck), Positiv-Fotolacken, lichtempfindlichen Schichten für den Siebdruck findet das Verfahren Anwendung.
Konservierung
Die Phenole in Diazotypien reagieren mit Sauerstoff, verstärkt unter UV-Licht, und führen zu einer Entfärbung. Dieser Effekt tritt vor allem an den Seiten auf, die stärker mit Sauerstoff in Berührung kommen. Die Farbe ist säureempfindlich, was wegen des Säuregehalts der Diazotypien zu einer Selbstauflösung führt.
Literatur
Eleonore Kissel, Erin Vigneau: Architectural photoreproductions. A manual for identification and Care. Oak Knoll u. a., New Castle DE u. a. 1999, ISBN 1-884718-62-0.
Weblinks
Einzelnachweise
Edeldruckverfahren | {
"redpajama_set_name": "RedPajamaWikipedia"
} |
Frustratingly, and perhaps ironically, given my profession, I don't find time to listen to a lot of DJ mixes. There's always a promo to be checked out, an album to be reviewed, research to be done — and by "research" I mean an hour spent plummeting down a YouTube rabbit hole, until you've forgotten what you went looking for in the first place. My listening habits are maddeningly disjointed these days, and I'd guess it's not just other music critics who might share my situation.
Beyond its stylistic scope, what impresses me is how carefully knitted together it all is. You rarely know when a track is entering or leaving the mix; at any given point, it's virtually impossible to tease out the intertwined elements. But it's a loose weave, too, befitting the rippling hand percussion and wonky, off-time programming that Hebden favors. The mix feels unusually porous — like a nest. Live in it for a while.
Most "live" sets today have about as much in common with real-time performance as that Tupac hologram did to a carbon-based life form. That's not the case with Amsterdam's Juju & Jordash, however. They perform music much the same way they record it: plugging in a mess of gear and jamming like mad. For a recent set at Bucharest's Control Club, they lugged a handful of machines onstage (Roland Juno 60 and Yamaha DX 11 synthesizers, a Roland TR-707 drum machine, even a pair of guitars), and let loose in an extended improv session. Taking in menacing Belgian New Beat vibes, Terry Riley-inspired pulsations, and stoner-friendly Balearic house, the mix covers plenty of ground, but its focus never wavers from the matter of getting down and getting deep. For more in the same vein, check out archived sets from Magic Mountain High, their trio with German house legend Move D.
Whey my colleague Justin Farrar recommends a techno mix, I prick up my ears. Farrar's also a noise guy, and when he writes about electronic dance music, he often zeroes in on its fringes.
Appropriately, his mixing style emphasizes seamless fusions and subtle shifts in tone, with overlapping passages kicking up the hazy friction of a moiré pattern; it's all driven forward with the insistence of a drill bit. The overwhelming mechanical quality of the music, paradoxically, makes the moments where DVS1's interventions are audible — quickly speeding up the pitch of one record to lock in the groove — all the more electrifying.
It was love at first listen with Axel Boman. His Holy Love EP for DJ Koze's Pampa label suggested a producer who had the fundamentals of deep house down pat, but also wasn't afraid to fly in the face of convention. His subsequent releases have borne out that impression — warm, enveloping, and sensual, but also a little bit off, like a happy drunk. (That's not to say he can't smarten up when the job requires: just consider last year's Radioactive Orchestra project, in which Boman and Kristofer Habgard translated the energies of radioactive isotopes into abstract techno.) Stockholm's Studio Barnhus, the label that Boman runs alongside Kornél Kovács and Petter Nordkvist, is just as idiosyncratic, with an unusually colorful, naïve, occasionally zany approach to deep house and disco.
This mix for Nylon Guys magazine shows how Boman's oddball aesthetic plays out in the mix, with bumpy disco grooves underpinning bright baubles of melody. It actually feels a little like an overstuffed DJ bag, with the sounds dogeared and torn, and disparate eras and moods jammed together with rough affection. Cybotron's "Alleys of Your Mind" bumps up against the breakbeats of John Swing's "Slightly Jacking"; Omar-S's subaquatic house bleeds into Jon McMillion's liquid funk, and not long after that we re-surface in an Afrodisco dance party. On his Facebook page, Boman acknowledged that the mix is "a bit messy here and there," but for my money, it's that seat-of-the-pants quality that makes it so engaging. The brushstrokes may be sloppy, but the picture that emerges across the whole mix is all the more vivid for it.
Washington, D.C.'s Beautiful Swimmers could have titled this mix, "Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Don Cherry, But Were Afraid to Ask." I'm not completely unschooled in the late cornetist's work, having dipped into albums like his Don Cherry (a.k.a. Brown Rice) and encountered his playing on records like Bengt Berger's Bitter Funeral Beer; he also plays on Tullio De Piscopo's 1984 single "Stop Bajon," one of my favorite disco songs of all time. But I can't claim to have really done my homework, and, as with most jazz, there's a serious intimidation factor, too.
Credit Beautiful Swimmers (Future Times label co-founder Andrew Field-Pickering, a.k.a., Maxmillion Dunbar, and Ari Goldman) with laying out Cherry's work in such an appealing, intuitive fashion. It's very much a DJ mix, with long blends, extensive EQ work, and occasional effects; appropriately, they emphasize Cherry's jazz-funk side, with plenty of driving grooves and shaggy African rhythms (and, yes, the ecstatic chug of "Stop Bajon"), laying out a solid rhythmic foundation for all the modal fireworks and astral projections above. Set aside an hour for it; it'll melt away the rest of your afternoon. | {
"redpajama_set_name": "RedPajamaC4"
} |
gone words before the crazy mob
Beatnik Questionnaire, copyright 1960, Gimmix Novelties, White Plains, N.Y. (Harry Ransom Center)
Do you live like there is no tomorrow? Do you attend poetry readings? Do you write your own poetry? Cool verse? Gone verse? Do you also recite? In public? Before a crazy mob?
Posted by Al Filreis at 8:55 PM
Labels: beats
a valentine from Marianne
Marianne Moore published more often in New Yorker than I would have guessed. Several times in '60. On February 13, we see her poem "St. Valentine," (yes the comma is in the title) and it begins with one of her patent run-ons from the title:
St. Valentine,
permitted to assist you, let me see...
And the final stanza is this:
Verse--unabashedly bold--is appropriate;
and always it should be as neat
as the most careful writers "8."
Any valentine that is written
Is as the vendange to the vine.
Might verse not best confused itself with fate?
Moore published O to Be a Dragon in '59 and it was reviewed widely in '60. She also wrote a big-splash article for Vogue called "The Plums of Curiosity," a curious piece itself. More on that another time.
opening the field
Some would argue - I might well be among them - that Robert Duncan's Grove Press book of poems, The Opening of the Field, opened the poetics field in the year 1960. Keith Newton has put together a suggestive "recovery project" web page on Duncan's book. He writes:
Written almost fifty years ago, not long after the devastations of the first half of the century and in the shadow of those to come, The Opening of the Field remains one of our most moving attempts to restore, in a world left spiritually barren, some sense of "the human greenness." There is a sense throughout the book that an unanswerable question lies at its heart: to what purpose, to what end, does the poetry direct its energies? To "the boundaries of the field," where the mind stops, where language stops, where our stories end? Yet what we find from the beginning of the book is that thought itself is a restorative process, that even as it is directed toward its own boundaries, it is guided by an instinct to create. "In the field of the poem," Duncan writes in "The Propositions," "the unexpected / must come."
PennSound's Duncan page has just recently been expanded significantly - thanks largely to the work of Mike Hennessey. There are recordings of readings done as early as 1950 - also several of 1963. And (scroll to the bottom of the Duncan page) there's a reading of Opening - in two parts - of unknown date and setting. Listen!
2001's version of 1960's version of the '50s
Pop surrealism, a So-Cal quasi-underground movement of the current decade, looks back to the late 50s and early 60s - obsessing visually over the cathode characters of that moment. Larry Reid, writing about this art, wonders why the interest in the 1960 moment today, and offers an idea of parallels. Both eras of prosperity in which conservatives extol nebulous family values while demonizing the influence of popular culture. Both eras stand at the end of the dominance of "inaccessible conceptual art and the opaque dialogue that accompanied it." I'm not sure I see these parallels, nor do I see the diminution of conceptual art now (or then). But since the reasons for interest in the 1960 moment now are obviously relevant to this project - this one here - I suppose I have to reckon seriously with such accounts of 2001's version of 1960.
I've written a longer entry on pop surrealism here. Above at right is Tim Biskup's "The Channeler."
Labels: painting, surrealism
road of excess leads to palace of wisdom
William Styron spent a year in Rome. Took a drive with friends and beloved Rose to Anzio, had a meal at a fine ristorante recommended to them. On the drive back, Styron, at the wheel of the car, hit a motorcyclist - riding a Vespa. The man flew along the hood of the car and shattered the windshield, then was flung forward and landed on the pavement just in front of the car. The man did not die but Styron was horribly shaken. After a while, a doctor in attendance, Styron saw missing fingers and an empty eye socket. "Do not worry," said the doctor (in Italian, of course), "He lost those in the last accident."
Styron refused to drive for several weeks. And later he wrote this incident into the beginning of Set This House on Fire, the blockbuster Styron novel of 1960.
In the novel the motorcyclist goes into a coma, from which he awakes only at the very end of the book.
Thematically the novel is a condemnation of vulgar postwar American culture. The title comes from one of John Donne's epistles to the Earle of Carlile.
Formally it's odd and interesting: Styron at one point decided to compose the second half of the novel simultaneously in the first person and the third person. And he wrote on "dexies" - amphetamines. "I liked them," he said. He felt his pencil liberated and had access to surrealistic visions. He only took them for a week or so, since the main side effect was insomnia.
Norman Mailer hated the book even before it was published. People had been talking about Styron's next big novel (The Long March didn't quite count) after the great first book, Lie Down in Darkness. Preparing Advertisements for Myself, Mailer wrote that he's heard the new Styron novel is done. "If it is at all good, and I expect it is, the reception will be a study in the art of literary advancement. For Styron has spent years oiling every literary lever and power which could help him on his way, and there are medals waiting for him in the mass-media."
In the novel there's a Mailer-like character, Mason Flagg. Through Flagg (who says word for word a few things Mailer had said) Styron wanted to tell Mailer that he's been wasting his talent - especially hanging aesthetically around with the beat scene and modern jazz and free sex, which Styron deemed banal. So on page 124 of Set This House on Fire Styron has Flagg say something that was right out of a letter Mailer had written to Styron - a private signal to Mailer that Flagg had a message for him.
Paul Pickrel, reviewing the new Styron for Harper's, wrote: "Styron's great resource is excess." And: "The theme of the book was neatly summarized by William Blake long ago in his apothegm: 'The road of excess leads to the palace of wisdom.'"
review: July 1960 issue, p. 93; other sources including James West's excellent biography of Styron
Labels: beats, fiction, Mailer | {
"redpajama_set_name": "RedPajamaCommonCrawl"
} |
I can't say when I last read a book of essays, but based on this Australian author's novel The Spare Room that I read in 2009 and Reading Matters' review, I decided to give it a try. It's so good that all I can do is fill this post with quotes.
One essay is called Eight Views of Tim Winton, thus combining a reference to Japanese woodblock prints, e.g., Thirty-Six Views of Mt. Fuji, and one of my favorite authors. They became friends and she tells about a time they went to church together. Kneeling at the alter rail to receive communion, rather than responding to the offering by the pastor with the usual "Amen," Winton says, "Thanks, mate."
At some point she shared a house with a 'saved' Christian as she puts it, who harangued her about Jesus at the drop of a hat. When Tim came for a visit, her housemate was eager to have a theological talk with him. She left the house and when she asked Tim about the encounter, he told her, "Oh…we talked. And in the end I said to him, 'Why don't you give the book a rest? Why don't you let your life be your witness?'"
Am I imagining an unusual quiet over the city? A breathlessness? The world is waiting for the news: will the US elect a black president? I hardly dare turn on the TV. But when I do I sit there and sob out loud. Tears absolutely pop out of my eyes. Olive [her 8-year-old granddaughter] comes in the back door and gazes at me curiously. 'I'm crying with happiness,' I say, 'because of Obama. Obama! OBAMA! To think I'm alive when this happened! It's better than men walking on the moon!' She puts down what she is carrying, approaches me with an ironical little smile, and gives me a mature hug, patting my shoulder. In this she is so like her mother that I cry even more.
On the couch I watch ep after ep of Mad Men. Don Draper goes to California and falls in with some Eurotrash layabouts who on the DVD case are described as 'exciting new friends' but are in fact shallow bores. Roger dumps his wife and goes off with a secretary who is vain about her looks and fancies herself as a poet: languorous sensuality and all the rest. I lie here, a batty old nanna, shouting at the screen, 'Do NOT get into that car.' 'Oh, shut up, you stupid idiot.' But when it's over I set up the board and, in the spirit of Betty Draper, iron the pillowcases.
Although she, like everyone else, she says, knows Darcy, Miss Elizabeth, and her "skewed array of sisters," when she opened Pride and Prejudice, she realized she had not read it. In a dozen pages she gives us a hilarious recounting of it that alone is worth the price of the book. I particularly liked her reaction when she comes on Darcy's first proposal to Elizabeth halfway through the book.
The cunning minx! She was going to make me wait another 218 pages for a resolution! Torn between despair and violent longing, I was obliged to rise from my sopha and take a turn around the drawing room.
I was left with a confused mixture of respect for the craft of the movie, amazed admiration for the people who charged the hijackers, and the old haunting question: why do stories matter so terribly to us, that we will offer ourselves up to, and later be grateful for, an experience that we know is going to fill us with grief and despair?
She tells about a summer when she worked in a department store: "My feet ached that summer. They ached rhythmically, like string quartets of pain, and, by the end of each day, like a great screaming Wagnerian orchestra."
I learned a new Australian slang phrase: "spat the dummy" which refers to an adult's angry outburst. Well, I guess I learned both a phrase and a new word: a dummy is a baby pacifier.
Helen Garner, Everywhere I Look, Text Publishing, 2016, 240 pages (I read the kindle version). Available from Amazon. | {
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I am not sure if you are like me but I really always wanted to be in the kitchen and out in no time. As a result, I resorted to using a lot of pre-made seasonings for my food. Seasonings that were either too salty, or not enough salt, or was clumped together when I opened the packet. I decided that I needed to make my own seasoning so that I can control the salt levels and avoid the processed additives.
Making fajita seasoning is beyond easy. You are able to make it from everyday spices you have in your pantry. I try my best to keep my pantry stock of spices. My pantry list always reminds me of what I should have in there to be able to cook easily.
I don't have a specific brand of spice that I stick to. I usually grab what I see (usually McCormick or Badia). I always visit the spice aisle to see what "new" spices or combination of spices I may find.
This mixture gives me approximately 3 - 4 tablespoons of seasoning.
You can easily, double, triple it and store in an airtight container (that has been fully dried) and added to your pantry for later use.
So easy, In fact, that was faster than going to the store, standing in line and paying for a premade pack of seasoning.
An easy recipe to make homemade fajita seasoning using ingredients that can easily be found in your spice cabinet. This recipe is great for meats and vegetables. | {
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St George's Cross billows above the castellated twin towers of the Cathedral Church of the Resurrection. Inside, beams of light pour through stained-glass windows onto choir stalls and memorial plaques engraved with names like Sir Alexander Hutchinson Lawrence.
This Anglican church could easily have been built in an English shire. But it stands at the traffic-choked center of the Pakistani city of Lahore, sharing a skyline with Mughal-era domes and minarets.
Although more than 95% of Pakistanis are Muslim, a reported 1.6% of the country's 208-million population is Christian.
Most are descended from low-caste Hindus who converted in the 19th century, when many of the country's hundred or so British colonial-era churches were built.
From the mountains of Malakand — home to what was once British India's northernmost church — to the southern seaport of Karachi, Pakistan has numerous examples of outstanding Christian architecture.
Among them, Lahore's Cathedral Church of the Resurrection is deemed by many architecture experts to be the finest. Constructed by the British, the cathedral was consecrated in 1887 and inherited by the city's Anglican community after the creation of Pakistan 60 years later.
The cathedral was designed by architect John Oldrid Scott in a style known as Early English — a medieval Gothic aesthetic characterized by pointed arches, vaults and buttresses, that enjoyed a revival in the 19th century.
Built in the shape of a cross, the pink-brick-and-sandstone church soars above Mall Road, the city's main thoroughfare. Its cool, dark interior, capped with a tall vaulted ceiling, offers sanctuary from Punjab's battering heat.
Judged by some architecture critics to be almost a pastiche of the Early English style, the church features mellow stained-glass windows and a lavish golden altar, giving it the soaring serenity of an English provincial cathedral. The structure is beautifully rounded off with a semi-circular ambulatory, illuminated by colored trefoil windows with the deep richness of the medieval designs they mimic.
Among the cathedral's many treasures are carvings, bells, chapels and memorials to long-dead dignitaries of the British Raj. But while the building has been dubbed "the greatest shrine to the Raj in its heroic age" by Jan Morris, an acclaimed writer on British-Indian architecture, it is more than a grand imperial reliquary.
This Cathedral is very much a living church. Sunday services are packed and Mehraj receives a steady stream of parishioners seeking his guidance.
The cathedral school is also fully attended. Pakistan's Christian schools, which have educated much of the country's leadership, have an excellent reputation, and most of the school's pupils are in fact Muslim.
By contrast the writer and former Lahore resident, Rudyard Kipling, thought British buildings' lack of compromise reflected the colonists' apartness — an architectural "shut-upness," as opposed to Eastern "spaciousness," as he put it.
St Patrick's Roman Catholic cathedral in Karachi also sequesters a vibrant congregation. Made from local stone and erected in 1881 on the site of a chapel built for the Irish Catholic troops who conquered Sindh province, St Patrick's is all spires and high lancet windows.
But its design is far more dominating and proportionally solid than the aforementioned cathedral in Lahore.
Built in the high Gothic style, the church's construction echoed the growing importance of Catholics — many of whom came from the former Portuguese colony of Goa to work on the newly arrived railway — in Pakistan's Christian community, according to Karachi architect and heritage expert Yasmin Lari.
The building's imposing facade is utilitarian but its interior is rich with vaulting, stained-glass windows, marble paving and life-size statues that give it "color and beauty," Lari said.
The parish priest Father Mario Rodrigues, whose family originally came from Goa, said that on Good Fridays, up to 8,000 people attend a service held outside in the church's large precinct.
The Irish may have left, but St Patrick's Day is still celebrated with gusto, he added.
However, as with other churches in Pakistan, the threat of violence hangs over the cathedral. In recent decades, Christians — and by extension, churches — have become the target of Islamist-inspired mob violence and deadly militant attacks. In 1998, a bomb exploded under a pew at St Patrick's, injuring a woman and causing minor damage to the building.
Just across the city from St Patrick's at the Holy Trinity Cathedral, a heavy security barrier now stands beneath the church's tall square tower. A bomb blast in 2004 buckled a 130-year-old stained-glass window, which is now held together with sticky tape, according to the Anglican church's accountant, Robert Josiah.
"We have faced no recent terrorist threat, thank God," he added.
Consecrated in 1855, Holy Trinity was built as a garrison church. Its tower, once five-stories high, was likened to a giraffe by a 19th-century observer — and disparaged as "a grotesque campanile" by Jan Morris.
Set in gardens bordered with privet hedges and rose beds, the church is entered via an elegantly carved Romanesque arch. Inside, on the walls of its somber nave, memorials commemorate colonial-era soldiers and officials.
But time has taken its toll. The cathedral's tiled and pitched roof suffered serious termite damage and was replaced with a concrete barrel vault in the 1970s.
Pakistan's other cathedrals have also suffered losses. While St Patrick's was able to restore its stained glass windows (the work was part-funded by the same German company that produced them in 1900), Lahore's Cathedral Church of the Resurrection has so far failed to find a comprehensive way of rescuing its own damaged windows.
Lahore's other great church, Sacred Heart Cathedral, faces similar challenges. Designed by Belgian architect Edouard Dobbeleers, and notable for its massive Roman Byzantine dome and 165-foot high belfry steeple, the cathedral's luminous interior is jammed with worshippers on Sundays.
But in 2008, its outbuildings were damaged in a bomb attack on a nearby police station. The bishop's residence was weakened by the blast and has since been demolished. Although not targeted at Christians, the attack brought home the risks the community faces.
Yet, these historic churches can play a key role in promoting interfaith harmony, said Mehraj. | {
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This new and innovative call will make realistic yelps, clucks, cutts, purrs and kee-kees by simply twisting the top striker pot in a clockwise motion. It is designed for one-handed operation by strapping to leg or gun stock. Don't worry about rain, this call is 100% waterproof. This call has adjustable tone by simply turning the wingnut to produce higher or lower pitch. The Twistin' Hen has been field tested with great success by Penn's Woods Turkey calling professionals. Comes with elastic strap and snap buckle.
A high-pitched call for shock gobbling or crow hunting. This crow call is widely recognized as one of the top calls on the market because of its incredible volume and compact size. Made of select wood and comes with a camo lanyard.
A 2 reed V-cut mouth call using prophylactic instead of latex rubber.
A 3 reed V-cut mouth call using prophylactic instead of latex rubber. Extremely easy to use with incredibly realistic sound. Much easier to use than latex reed calls.
A single-reed call with thick enough latex for natural hen calls and exellent kee-kee calls of the young lost turkey. Excellent for close calling situations.
A 2-reed call that serves as a great all around call for any hunting season. Produces all hen calls and kee-kee calls. Excellent choice for beginners.
A 3-reed call made with thin latex to produce excellent sounding hen calls. Allows for more volume but still very easy to use.
This 3-reed call with precise 'V' cuts in the long reed, will deliver excellent raspy hen calls.
A 3-reed call with a unique wedge cut in the long reed. Great for reproducing the cutting, yelping and clucking of a mature hen.
A 2-reed call with cuts on the extreme ends of the long reed for a light rasp tone. A versatile call that reproduces the sounds of a mature hen or young turkey.
Constructed of a "mini-frame", this 2-reed call is much like our regular split double. Great for producing all hen calls. For youth or individuals with a small palate.
Constructed of a "mini-frame", this 3-reed call with 'V' cut is perfect for young callers or adults with small palates. Produces realistic sounding raspy hen calls.
This 4-reed call with precise 'V' cut in the long reed is made with 4 special, thin reeds to produce the excited raspy yelping and cutting of an adult hen.
This call is the favorite of many of the Penn's Woods Pro Staff because of its success in calling competitions and in the field. Made with 3 thin reeds, 1 set back reed and precise "V" cut, this call will produce incredible realistic cutting and yelping of a mature hen.
A 2 1/2 reed call featuring super thin latex with a special modified V-cut. This call's key feature is that it will have a "high pitched front end" with a "raspy back end" yelp, just like a real hen. Try it, you'll love it!
A 2 reed call featuring super thin latex with precision V-cut. This call is designed with "No Gap" in the latex reeds which allows for more realistic sounding hen calls. Requires less air pressure than most other mouth calls.
This complete call system contains the famous PW-2 "Twin Reed", the PWS2 "Split Double", and the PW3V "Rasp-V-Triple" for versatility in imitating all turkey calls in any season. Whether you're looking for the kee-kee run, a clear yelp or raspy cutting, this system is for you.
A convenient and accessible way to store and carry diaphragm calls. Made with 4 pockets capable of holding up to 10 - 12 calls. Hangs around neck for quick and easy selection.
No friction call is more hunter friendly or shooter ready. Fixed plastic molded clips attach instantly to 10, 12, 16 and 20-guage gun barrels and won't harm finish. No velcro and no rubber bands. With gun in ready position, a tug on attached lanyard delivers purrs, clucks, yelps or excited cutts for that in-close or long-range calling situation. Comes with NEW waterproof pouch for all-weather use.
The first wooden, yet waterproof box call ever developed for the turkey hunter. This call will work well under any weather condition, especially when it matters, in the rain! We have even given this call the ultimate test by totally submerging it in water. The Waterproof Wizard never needs chalking only an occaisional buffing of the treated surface. Never worry again about using a box call in the rain, get the "Waterproof Wizard" and go hunting!
Designed for hunters not happy with push button type calls and looking for a one-handed call. Easy to learn and so compact it comfortably fits in the palm of either hand and operates with only one inch of finger movement. Delivers natural-sounding yelps, purrs, cutts and clucks. This unique call is also designed to be used in the supplied belt mountable camo pouch.
This call produces the common and natural sounds of most hens which is of the raspy nature. The Raspy Glass is very easy to use and is well liked by beginners and experts. Packaged with a hardwood and water proof striker, this call is sure to be a favorite regardless of the weather conditions. This season give them the real sounds... give them the sound of the Raspy Glass.
This call has the same dual sided design and custom wood pot as the slate but with glass as the main surface. This call enables the user extreme versatitilty due to the different tones that can be achieved on either glass side. The thin top glass provides medium to high-pitched tones that deliver sweet yelps and varied cutting pitches. The thick bottom glass delivers consistent, deeper tones for those in-close calling situations where that perfect cluck and purr is necessary to bring the bird that extra 20 yards. Comes with hickory and all weather striker.
This dual sided call's main surface is comprised of fine Portuguese Slate with glass on the under side. However the call's best feature is it's custom, hand turned wood pot. The custom design creates and outstanding sound chamber and it's unique bottom allows the user all weather use on the glass surface. Comes with hickory and weather proof striker. This call proved itself time and time again for numerous Penn's Woods Pro-staff members during the Spring season!
The Little Seducer is a small call that will get you BIG RESULTS! Its compact size fits perfectly in your hand and makes using a friction call extremely easy. Whether you have a small hand or large one, using this call will be much better than most others on the market. Works in any weather condition.
Sit in comfort with this thick, durable, high density seat cushion. The Rump Rester is a necessity for deer, turkey, waterfowl, groundhog and squirrel hunters as well as fishermen and sports enthusiasts. As they say "Patience is a Virtue" and this 3" thick cushion will allow you to sit in one position and reap the benefits of success.
This high-quality, all purpose shoulder bag is a necessity for all outdoorsmen. Whether your sport is turkey hunting, archery, muzzleloading, waterfowl, shooting, photography, etc..., the possibilities are endless. Made of quiet, water-repellent material, this shoulder bag replaces fanny packs, possible bags and vests. A second strap attaches around the waist to hold the bag in position. The bag consists of (1) large compartment and (6) small pockets for carrying any size items such as calls, flashlights, shells, sefety belt, treesteps, muzzleloading accessories and even your lunch. Available in Realtree "Xtra Brown" Camo. Made to last - season after season. | {
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Il Museo naturalistico del parco nazionale d'Abruzzo, Lazio e Molise è un museo naturalistico dedicato alla flora e alla fauna del parco nazionale d'Abruzzo, Lazio e Molise situato a Pescasseroli (AQ), in Abruzzo. Il centro visita ospita il giardino botanico e l'arboreto appenninico del parco nazionale.
Storia e descrizione
Lo spazio museale e il principale centro visita del parco nazionale d'Abruzzo, Lazio e Molise, inaugurati nel 1969, sono situati a Pescasseroli, cittadina abruzzese che ospita la sede legale dell'ente gestore dell'area protetta. Nell'area museale, divisa in sezioni, sono consultabili i documenti storici e altro materiale che illustra le caratteristiche ambientali, geologiche e storico-culturali del territorio. Nella sezione archelogica sono esposti alcuni reperti della necropoli di epoca italica della val Fondillo, nei pressi di Opi, risalenti tra il VII e il V secolo a.C. L'area didattica, frequentata anche dalle scolaresche e dai gruppi scout, offre strumenti utili per approcciarsi in modo il più possibile corretto e rispettoso con il parco nazionale.
La struttura è dotata di una sala conferenze e di uno spazio espositivo per mostre tematiche.
In area faunistica sono presenti alcuni animali che popolano l'area protetta come l'orso bruno marsicano, il cervo, il capriolo, la lontra e altri esemplari che nati in cattività o feriti sono ospitati nel centro natura non essendo in grado di sopravvivere allo stato selvatico. Il giardino botanico e arboreto appenninico del parco nazionale ospita uno stagno didattico e le piante tipiche dell'area protetta. L'area è colonizzata dagli scoiattoli e da diverse specie di volatili.
Note
Bibliografia
Voci correlate
Parco nazionale d'Abruzzo, Lazio e Molise
Giardino botanico e arboreto appenninico del Parco nazionale d'Abruzzo, Lazio e Molise
Musei dell'Abruzzo
Collegamenti esterni
Musei di Pescasseroli
Parco nazionale d'Abruzzo, Lazio e Molise | {
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In 1966 feasibility and market studies revealed a definite market for a medium-sized turboprop mini-airliner for commuter and executive use. The H.P.137 Jetstrearn was launched, attracting nearly 200 orders and options in the first year. It even won the United States Air Force contest for the C-10A transport. But it was a difficult aircraft for a firm used to large and expensive military designs, and development was prolonged. Its airworthiness category imposed a nominal limit in all-up weight which severely affected range/load performance. This was improved with the advent of higher-power engines and a change in category, which allowed take-off weight to rise to the level for which the Jetstream was designed.
The Jetstream had accommodations for a crew of two plus flight attendant and 4-18 passengers. With a diameter of 6 feet, a length of 24 feet, and 613 cu. ft. of usable cabin space, the Jetstream has the largest interior in its class. There is stand-up headroom, ample walkaround space, and 14 windows.
The HP.137 Jetstream was a pressurized 12/18 seat low-wing monoplane with a retractable undercarriage, powered by a pair of 840 hp Turbomeca Astazou XIV turboprops. Before the drawings were complete, Riley placed an order for 20 for the United States feeder liner market.
The prototype H.P.137 (G-ATXH c/n 198) flew first on 18 August 1967 powered by the Astazou XII. The first four aircraft were powered by the French Astazou, the fifth aircraft was fitted with the US-built Garrett AiResearch TPE-331 instead to improve sales prospects in the US. This re-engining lead to an order by the US Air Force for 11 Jetstream 3M or C-10A as a mission support transport aircraft. Early 1969 however this order was cancelled on the grounds of late delivery.
The Jetstream 1 had entered production by this time; with the first production model Jetstream 1 flying on 6 December 1968. Over the next year 36 would be delivered. The Astazou XIV engines however proved to be generally underpowered for the design. Due to these engine problems the Jetstream 1 was re-designed as the Jetstream 2 with more powerful 1073 hp Astazou XIVCs, starting deliveries in late 1969. By this point the late delivery and engine problems had driven costs to £13 million and Handley Page ran into serious financial difficulties. Only three Jetstream 2's would be completed before Handley Page went bankrupt, and the production line eventually shut down in 1970. Only 39 aircraft had been completed by the time of Handley Page's collapse in 1970.
Although Handley Page was wound up as a company, the Jetstream lived on. Ten further aircraft were completed, five by Jetstream Aircraft and five by Scottish Aviation. In 1971 Scottish Jetstream Ltd was the name of a new company formed by Scottish Aviation and Jetstream Aircraft for the manufacture of the Jetstream twin turboprop transport. Scottish Aviation continued production of the Jetstream 2 although they referred to it as the Jetstream 200. The Royal Air Force ordered twenty-six Jetstream 200's as navigation and multi-engine trainers known as the Jetstream T.1. The Royal Navy later subsequently took over some of these as T.2's. In 1977, Scottish Aviation was nationalized along with the British Aircraft Corp. and Hawker Siddeley Aviation to form British Aerospace.
BAe decided the design was worth further development, and started work on a "Mark 3" Jetstream. The new version was re-engined with two 1020 hp Garrett TPE331-12UAR turboprops that offered significant advantages over the Turbomeca units. This allowed the aircraft the ability to operate at maximum load from a much greater range of airfields.
The prototype of the BAe Jetstream 31, converted from an original HP137 airframe to suit revised FAR requirements for 19-seat commuter aircraft, made its maiden flight on 28 March 1980 (G-JSSD) from Prestwick Airport, Scotland and was airborne for 1hr 22min. Aboard on the flight were BAe test pilots Angus McVittie and J. L. S. 'Len' Houston, J. R. 'Bob' Baker from Garrett-AiResearch and BAe flight test engineer Andrew Eldred.
The new British Aerospace Jetstream 31 entered production 28 March 1980 and is powered by two Garrett-AiResearch TPE331-IOU engines and also features advanced technology propellers and new electrical, air conditioning and cockpit systems.
By 1994 some 380 had been delivered, 320 of those to the USA.
The Royal Navy received four Jetstream 31 twin turboprops, designated T.3, which are used for observer training. These aircraft join 16 Astazou-powered T.2s which are used in similar roles. The T.3s differ not only in having Garrett TPE331 engines, but also in having an underfuselage Racal ASR360 search radar in place of the nose-mounted MEL E90 unit of the T.2. The RAF also used 11 Astazou powered Jetstream T.ls for multi-engine pilot training. Saudi Arabia has bought two Jetstream 31s for tornado crew training.
In 1985, development of a further upgrade started resulting in the Jetstream Super 31, also known as the Jetstream 32, with more powerful engines that flew in 1988.
The Jetstream 32EP (also known as Jetstream Super 31) was designed to increase the payload and range of the Jetstream 32 in extreme climatic conditions. It provides significant improvements in performance, derived from the use of two upgraded Garrett TPE331-12 turboprop engines flat-rated at 1,020 shp (760 k)XD and driving four-bladed advanced technology propellers.
More than 310 Jetstream 31s and Super 31s had been ordered by 1987.
In 1991, the 29-seat Jetstream 41 was introduced. Production of the Jetstream 31/32 ended in 1993, while the production of the Jetstream 41 ended in 1997.
The Handley Page Jetstream came back for another round, as the newly certi-ficated Century Jetstream III, with 904 shp Garrett AiResearch TPE 331 turboprops in place of the French Astazous.
Century Aircraft Corp. of Amarillo, Texas, Jetstream III is air-conditioned and pressurized at 6.5 psi. The conversion to Garrett engines allows a range of 1,920 miles out of a 426-gallon fuel capacity. The engine conversions were performed by Volpar, Inc. in Van Nuys, California.
Jetstreams built since the early start in 1965 until the production ended in 1997 are: 38 H.P.137 Jetstream by Handley Page Ltd; 5 H.P.137 Jetstream by Jetstream Aircraft Ltd; 5 H.P.137 Jetstream by Scottish Aviation Ltd; 26 Jetstream T.1 by Scottish Aviation; 220 Jetstream 31 by British Aerospace; 161 Jetstream Super 31 by British Aerospace; 100 Jetstream 41 by British Aerospace.
Accommodation: max. high density 18 passengers at 30 in pitch.
Initial climb rate 2,100 fpm.
Engines: 2 x Garrett TPE 331-10V-501H, 940 shp.
Maximum ramp weight: 14,660 lbs.
Maximum takeoff weight: 14,550 lbs.
Standard empty weight: 9046 lbs.
Maximum useful load: 5614 lbs.
Maximum landing weight: 14,550 lbs.
Maximum usable fuel: 3079 lbs.
Best rate of climb: 2200 fpm.
Maximum single-engine rate of climb: 520 fpm @ 109 kts.
Single-engine climb gradient: 286 ft/nm.
Fuel flow @ normal cruise: 460 pph.
Stalling speed clean: 98 kts.
Stalling speed gear/flaps down: 86 kts.
Turbulent-air penetration speed: 180 kts.
Engines: 2 x Garrett TPE 331-3U-303, 904 hp.
Max TO wt: 12,500 lb.
Equipped useful load: 3600 lb.
Payload max fuel: 528 lb.
Min field length: 2310 ft. | {
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Mint Cookies and Cream Cake � mint buttercream sandwiched between cookie-studded cake, smothered with mint Oreo frosting, topped with drippy chocolate ganache.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour three 6-inch round cake pans and set aside.
In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter until smooth. Add in the sugar and mix for about 3 minutes on medium speed.
Visit Mint Cookies and Cream Cake @ thecakeblog.com for full instructions. | {
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MADType
http://www.madtype.com
MADType is the Minneapolis based studio of Matthew Desmond.
Last edited by mattdesmond on January 22, 2010, 11:08am EST
Typefaces by this Foundry
Amber Updated on January 22, 2010
American Gothic Updated on January 22, 2010
Bandoleer Updated on February 24, 2010
Basis Updated on January 22, 2010
Beat Updated on January 23, 2010 | {
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Updated 1 bedroom 1 bath end unit in excellent complex with tons of amenities! Kitchen has granite counters & stainless appliances. Laminate flooring in living room. Huge walk-in closet w/ big interior storage room. Community amenities include 4 swimming pools; 4 tennis courts with tennis professional services; 2 racquet ball courts; 6 electric vehicle charging stations, club house, gym and much more. Gorgeous water views front and back of complex and minutes to Berkeley and SF Financial District.
Hi, I am interested in learning more about 7 Commodore Dr, # a253. | {
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Lots of persons believe the similar way you do, not recognizing that residential metal roofing values are obtainable at reasonable prices.
In fact, several specialists will tell you that metal roof products are the greatest long-term investments. You can also navigate to www.countrytowne.ca/metal-roofing-london-ontario to hire the best roofing services in London Ontario.
There are lots of metallic roofing do-it-yourself jobs in the marketplace nowadays. However, it's never suggested that a metal roof has been set up by roof newcomer.
Considering these roofs can be made to appear like other forms, so you won't be able to tell out of the floor a simulated cedar-shake metallic roof wasn't the actual one.
You can find a number of advantages employing a sort of roof. For starters, they don't burn! Besides the apparent benefit from not having the ability to burn off, a house topped by a metal roof might lead to significant savings in regards to insurance expenses. | {
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The Rotary Club of Sparks is an organization of business and professional leaders located in the Reno-Sparks area of Nevada who provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations and strive to build and develop peace and goodwill on a local and national level.
Membership of The Rotary Club of Sparks represents an accurate cross-section of Reno-Sparks business and professional men and women. Our group meets weekly and is proud to call itself a nonpolitical and nonreligious organization and to welcome members of all cultures, races and creeds.
We also support programs for young people, educational opportunities and international exchanges for students as well as teachers and other professionals, and vocational/career development.
Our motto? Service Above Self. | {
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Auflösung bezeichnet in Harmonielehre und Kontrapunkt sowohl das Weiterführen einer Dissonanz in eine Konsonanz als auch das Fortschreiten eines Akkords in die ihm zugehörige Tonika bzw. in einen Zielakkord, der durch die alterierten Töne (Leittöne) des Akkords gefordert wird.
Da die Auflösung in der Regel als Entspannung empfunden wird, kann der Begriff Auflösung sinnvoll nur auf eine Musik angewendet werden, deren Fortschreitungsprinzip auf dem Wechsel von Spannung (Dissonanz bzw. Dominante) und Entspannung (Konsonanz bzw. Tonika) beruht, bei der also ein gewisser Zwang zur Auflösung von Spannungen besteht. Für die europäische Musik gilt dies vom Aufkommen der Dur-Moll-Tonalität im ausgehenden 15. Jahrhundert bis zu deren Auflösung im späten 19. und beginnenden 20. Jahrhundert.
Die mittelalterliche Mehrstimmigkeit kennt die Auflösung im o. g. Sinne noch nicht, da sie im Wesentlichen auf der Führung von Stimmen zwischen perfekten Klängen beruht, die in ihrer Abfolge vom Cantus prius factus geregelt werden.
Die Neue Musik dagegen kennt die Auflösung nicht mehr, da für sie zwischen Intervallen oder Klängen nur noch graduelle, nicht prinzipielle Unterschiede existieren. Indem für sie die Einteilung der Klänge in dissonante und konsonante nicht mehr relevant ist, wird der Zwang zur Auflösung hinfällig.
Literatur
Auflösung. In: Willibald Gurlitt, Hans Heinrich Eggebrecht (Hrsg.): Riemann Musik Lexikon. Sachteil. 12., völlig neubearbeitete Auflage. B. Schott's Söhne, Mainz 1967, S. 62.
Auflösung. In: Marc Honegger, Günther Massenkeil (Hrsg.): Das große Lexikon der Musik. In 8 Bänden. Aktualisierte Sonderausgabe. Herder, Freiburg (Breisgau) u. a. 1987, ISBN 3-451-20948-9, 125 f.
Harmonielehre
Kontrapunkt | {
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It's just at the half point of January and I've two things I want to add to my Wish List already!
Now, I should add, that doesn't mean I will definitely purchase them.
It just means I'll enjoy musing over whether I want to acquire these items, or not. And, perhaps eventually will. We'll see.
So, there's two items I'm adding and both are related to Alexander McQueen.
He was a British fashion designer and you may or may not be familiar with him. Just in case, here's a little 411.
Lee Alexander McQueen, CBE was an English fashion designer and couturier. From 1996 to 2001, he worked as chief designer at Givenchy. He also founded his own label, Alexander McQueen.
He was innovative, bold and a non conformist and I loved that about him. He did things his own way and was extremely well loved.
From some of his Tweets he seemed deep, thoughtful and sometimes melancholy. The myth of the tortured creative soul, is perhaps not a myth.
He committed suicide at age age 40, just days after his mother beloved Joyce's death.
Only three years previously his very close friend, a well known English style guru, Isabella "Issie" Blow killed herself.
She's famously attributed with having helped Alexander become a star.
The first item I want to muse over is his book, Savage Beauty. It's a beautiful coffee table book and one of the most highly rated coffee table fashion books on Amazon.
If I can find it at the library, I'll review it there and decide if I want to purchase it.
Reason being, I'm at a point in my life where I want to divest of things vs just simply adding them. I don't want this to be one more thing to move around and dust, just for the sake of it.
But if I really, really love it, I will purchase it and ditch something else to make space for it.
Gucci belts seem to be the "in" thing these days for fashion bloggers and I do like them.
However, if I'm going to invest in a belt to add to my closet, I'd love something a little bit more unique and elusive.
So the second thing I'm adding to my Wish List is one of his belts. I think I'd really love one with his infamous skull buckle. However, I also like the ones where the buckles are his initials.
Neither of these will be easy to find but I'm in no particular rush.
I think I would like to enjoy his book and learning more about him and then making the right choice of belt for me. Assuming I can find it!
I love this quote, as someone who loves luxury from Chanel (preferably vintage) to Target finds!
Anyhoo, that's my latest Wish List update and I'm sure there will be more.
Whatever I add to, or take off this list, I'll keep you posted. | {
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This past spring we started making over the exterior of our home. The outside was, as I mentioned many moons back when we bought the house, not the cutest. The house had a serious identity crisis and seemed to be a hodgepodge of the worst architectural ideas from the past 40 years. We finally bit the bullet and found a contractor to make the extreme makeover happen. But this post is not about exteriors! Since we were already going to have a contractor here, I figured we should go ahead and add another small job to his list–the laundry room.
Making over a laundry room may fall at the bottom of many people's reno list. Unless you're a weirdo–you don't eat, sleep, relax, or party in your laundry room. You do your dirty work in there, and get in and out as quickly as possible. In our case, the location of our laundry room by the kitchen meant that it was very visible. Because we don't have a ton of cabinets in the kitchen, it also seemed like a prime spot for more storage. Also, I spend more time in our laundry room than anyone else in the family, so redoing it was a completely selfish undertaking.
Laundry room before. Has there ever been a more dejected looking laundry basket?
It was an absolutely fine laundry room. It was actually located inside our house which was a HUGE improvement from our last Los Angeles laundry situation. I'm all in favor of open shelving (see kitchen) but it did not work for me in this space. I enjoy trying to give my house the appearance of organization. You can see that it's all a faćade when you open a drawer, closet, or any other receptacle in which things can be stuffed. The laundry room became a drop-off point for every random thing-a-ma-jig I didn't know what do with–tools, lightbulbs, batteries, spare change, childhood dreams, etc. I bought baskets for the open shelving, but I'm not a tall woman, and I had to pull them down to figure out what they contained. Usually, when I peaked inside, I was met with all the crap I didn't want to deal with last week when I was trying to frantically clean up before the guests walked through my front door. Also not working for me was the large, old, whole-house vacuum system in the wall that we did not use (I still don't understand this concept) and was taking up valuable real estate.
I decided to go with the same cabinet set-up as I used in my kitchen–black on bottom and white on top. I wanted the laundry room to coordinate with the kitchen since they were right next to each other, but I also wanted to spice things up. A small space is always a great opportunity to make a bold statement. I'd been eyeing all the gorgeous terrazzo making a comeback as-of-late, and when I came across this tile from Ann Sacks, I fell in love immediately. I was shocked when I called and found out it was IN STOCK and I could get it in a reasonable amount of time. Usually that one tile you love takes somewhere between 8 weeks to 2 decades to come in and you realize you're just going to have to spend the rest of your life pining away for What Might Have Been, like that Little Texas song (I had a country music phase in college that I do not want to talk about, thank you very much.) Luckily, those tiles wouldn't have to filed under the-ones-that-got-away.
I went with a clean white quartz countertop to match the one in the kitchen. Creating a countertop above the washer and dryer presented a bit of a problem. In order to handle the weight of a quartz countertop above them, I would need a support between the washer and dryer. There just wasn't the room to take even a few more inches for that. We were moving the small broom closet from the far side of the washer and dryer for easier access, and I wanted that closet to be as big as possible. A wood countertop is a common solution in laundry rooms since it's lighter than quartz or stone. I went with walnut.
I loved what CB2 had going on in their handle department. I ordered multiple ones to test out. I considered not going with brass, but when I put these shiny suckers up, I couldn't say no. When I was homeschooling my kids, we read a book named Rascal about a pet raccoon who always collected shiny things, because apparently Raccoons like shiny things. So I guess I have that AND dark circles around my eyes in common with them.
And then I painted it PINK (apologies to all my English teachers ever for starting a paragraph that way.) The actual color is Sherwin Williams Comical Coral. The room needed a pop, and pink just makes people happy. I'm like 7 years late to the millennial pink trend, but it's practically a classic now, so stop trying to shame me, okay?!
Every time I go into this room now, it makes me smile! If anything with laundry in its name can make a human smile, I consider that a success.
The living room was one of the things that sold me on our house. Since our house was built in the 70's when sunken living rooms were the thang, you actually step down into the room, because apparently, relaxing is grooviest at lower altitudes. With a vaulted ceiling, the room is open to the upstairs. This is a great set-up from which 7- year-old boys can throw parachute men, paper airplanes, and stuffed animals, and it gives the space some visual drama. It is not, however, great for watching the Walking Dead while your kids are trying to sleep. The previous owners did a lovely job decorating, but the style was not mine. However, I absolutely agreed with the 2 of their choices. They chose a sectional couch, which made tons of sense for the best tv viewing and number of seats in the long, narrow room. Also, they nestled the tv in the middle of large bookshelves on the wall. I loved both of these ideas, but knew I wanted to go less subdued and little more funky – okay, a lot more funky.
One of the reasons I had trouble warming up to the house was that it felt as though it didn't have any identity. It wasn't firmly anything, and the exterior was especially confused. I was looking for ways to inject identity into the space starting from the inside, and that ceiling felt like it held a few clues. The ceiling was begging for something. It was a huge expanse of whiteness, with recessed lighting. It was really high and there was absolutely nothing wrong with it, which is precisely what you do not want someone to say after a first date. I knew I wanted to push this confused house in a Spanish direction, and wood beams seemed like just the trick.
If we're talking wood beams, can we just flashback to this Jessica Helgerson kitchen with which I will forever be in love?
The long, narrowness of the room held some keys. While unusual spaces can be frustrating, they also present unique opportunities to do things you wouldn't have imagined if you weren't constrained by the space. Sure, who doesn't love big square rooms with windows, doors, a fireplace, and electrical outlets in the perfect spots? Yawn. I want to see a room with a window on the ceiling and a spiral staircase smack dab in the middle. Now we're talking . . . about a submarine . . . which is not exactly what I meant. What I'm trying to say is that weird rooms have personality. That whole "necessity is the mother of invention" thing applies beautifully, especially when it comes to creatively decorating and designing our spaces.
I went to Pinterest and began dreaming. I could expand on the original owners' idea for this long wall with some built-ins. They would give me the chance to fulfill a life-long design dream of having a library ladder, which might be a little ridic (isn't that what the kids are saying these days?) but no more ridic than having high shelves that you can't reach.
These built-ins by Tristan and Juliana are in a room with a vaulted ceiling (like mine) and beams too!
Sarah Sherman Samuel knocking it out of the park per usual in her vaulted ceiling living room.
Okay. It's not a living room, but there is a library ladder. Actually, it's just an excuse to put another space in here designed by Jessica Helgerson. Pretty soon this whole blog is just going to be a link to her website.
If you need built-ins, you're going to have to use math. MATH. I do math, but I don't like it. My husband was an engineer many moons ago before he did entertain-y stuff, so he and math got along just fine. When I told him about my plan we decided, "We should do this together!! Won't that be fun and won't we not want to kill each other?! Of course we won't that sounds perfectly reasonable!!!" We said that in unison just like it sounds. We are that in sync with each other.
He got excited and got graph paper, and I just kept looking at Pinterest. I was hoping to find a way to completely cover up the tv with books so it would be purtier (that's what we say in the south) but he kept making the space for the tv larger, which is not how that whole being in sync with each other thing is supposed to work.
This living room by Australian clothes designer, Lee Matthews, is breathtaking. And where does that little door go?
If there was going to be a big tv, maybe I could balance it out with a book nook. A book nook might say, "Look! People who live here like to sit quietly and read. Pay no attention to that idiot box that's in the very center!" (Didn't your grandma call the tv an idiot box too?) Also, there's something a little magical about really small nooks that can only fit one person. Give me 24 inches, a pillow, and a blanket and I'm going to make a nook out of it.
There would be no window in our built-ins, but this little girl just convinced me that my inner child really likes nooks.
I was beginning to realize that I had a 70's, Spanish, book-filled living room that was begging to break out. So I decided to let it.
When I last left y'all, I was still in search of the perfect piece of art for my kitchen nook, but hadn't found the one that made me feel all the feelings. I didn't want to finish off the space that I had worked so hard on by just throwing something up on the wall that did not speak life into the depths of my being -IS THAT TOO MUCH TO ASK? I wasn't sure if I wanted a modern black and white abstract piece or something that felt like it had more history. When the upholsterer came over to measure for the kitchen nook, he told me my style was transitional. I thought about telling him his voice was annoying and his breath smelled like the backside of a hyena, but I refrained. I've always hated the term "transitional." It feels like it's the embodiment of someone who's afraid of commitment, someone who's neither here nor there, someone who listens to muzak on purpose. I think what he meant to say (or what I meant for him to say) was "eclectic"… a mix of styles. My friend Rebecca described my space as "elevated 70's" which made me want to tell her that her voice sounded like baby angels singing and her breath smelled like chocolate cake (that's pretty much the highest compliment I can give a person). I have a lot of nods to the grooviest era happening in here, with Boho/Moroccan influences, especially in my soon-to-be-revealed living room. I also have a large dose of Hollywood Regency style with a black, white, and brass theme running throughout the house. All that to say, I could have gone a lot of directions with the art for this space. Just as an aside, if you're thinking that your personal style is "whatever piece of furniture my parents were getting rid of with an influence of whatever was hanging out on the side of the road with a 'Free' sign" I feel you, and I think some of the most creative spaces can result from using things that have some history, some soul, and don't cost a lot.
I had seen one piece of art that kept tugging at my heart. I decided to call one of my people. One of my favorite things about dipping my toe into interior design are the beautiful, creative, talented artists I've gotten to meet along the way. In fact, one of my hopes for this blog is to be able to introduce you to some of these people and their work. LA is a big, overwhelming town, so there's something so satisfying about knowing the people all over this city to call when you're looking for something specific. They will either have it, create it, or point you in the right direction. There are plant people, furniture people, art people, hardware people and people all in between. I met Corban a few years back when we worked on a short film together. Since then, she started an awesome business called The Here Company in which she does some jaw-dropping house staging around LA. She is dripping with creative talent herself, and also knows tons of artists and designers around our fair city. I had seen my painting (okay-it wasn't mine yet) in one of her friend and fellow stager/designer's instagram pics, so naturally I called her to see if she could work some magic for me.
"Do you think he'd sell it to me?" I ventured. Lucky for me, Corban's friend had just stepped away from his 9-5 gig to start buying and selling his stellar finds full time. Corban told me she'd take care of it…like some sort of Godfather of design. Not really, but it seems more dramatic that way.
When I arrived at Jason's house to pick up the art, I freaked out a little. Corban had sent me a picture from there before of a beautiful burl table he had that I might be interested in, and I knew he had some gooooood goods. She warned me that every corner of his place was like a designofile's dream. That night, he was in the process of cleaning out and photographing all of the insanely cool stuff that he had collected throughout the years and had been sitting in storage. There were funky sculptures, old rugs, vintage paintings and strange artifacts…and I considered stealing them all, but some stuff was heavy and I would need his help to get it in my get-away car, which might have made things awkward. I did find out that Jason came by his love of design honestly, like me, from his mom. Among her creative endeavors was a jewelry business named Just Bead It, which sounded a lot like my mom's hair bow business Bow-dacious. This gave me hope that he might give me the "Child-of-a-mom-with-a-punny-business-name" deal.
My beautiful painting was sitting among the other treasures. It was a landscape with rich, dark colors, frayed edges, and no frame. It tells a story, of those 3 tiny figures in the canoe on an adventure beneath that goliath of a mountain, but also of the mantels it must have graced and people who must have loved it throughout the years. It's the perfect juxtaposition to my clean, brass light and is large enough to fill the space. So I took it home…along with another abstract painting to try, a Xoacan bell, and a… whale vertebrae. You heard me. Whale. Vertebrae.
When I hung the art up, it felt like the piece that was always supposed to be there. I'm glad I waited. If you want to see and buy some of Jason's stuff, you can find him on Instagram @americangarage. You can check out my friend Corban's beautiful work here or on Instagram @theherecompany. Tell them I sent you.
I promised a reveal, and a reveal I have…finally! I dug up some previously unseen before photos that will give you a much better perspective on the changes we made.
Where to begin? The first day we moved in, even though the kitchen was still very much in process, I was in disbelief and overwhelmed with gratefulness. It was hard to wrap my head around the fact that I would get to wake up to this kitchen. Though the floor tiles I landed on were more understated than my original inspiration, I think they work, and also compliment the mix of cabinets without overpowering them. I loved the continuity from the den to the kitchen of the white brick backsplash , and I felt like it gave the kitchen a sense of history.
I think two of the decisions that were the easiest to make, also had the biggest impact. Removing the tray ceiling to give the room a little more height and knocking out the small, awkward wall between the kitchen and eat-in area opened up the space in a big way. Deciding how to orient the rest of the kitchen was not so cut and dried.
I envisioned a few different stations in the kitchen. I was hoping for a bar-height counter where the kids could sit and talk to me as I baked my grandmother's from scratch 6 layer carrot cake umm…heated up Trader Joe's chicken nuggets. I thought a breakfast nook would be the most efficient use of the eating space, since it wasn't large and a sliding glass door took up most of the back wall. I also wanted a place for our computer. We didn't have plans for an office anywhere else in the house, and I knew, especially with homeschooling, we would be spending most of our time in the kitchen. My long-suffering husband and I spent an…ahem…"spirited" night working on the kitchen plan. There were a few points where I thought I might have to send my dreams of a bar off to Never-Never Land. But we kept playing with the plan, measuring, and walking the space, and we finally landed on this configuration. It was a beautiful moment. My bar would be small, but it would be mighty, and would also be the perfect place to set a golden loaf of prop bread.
I really love our little breakfast nook. It's just the right size for the four of us to have intimate family dinners over dinner-y type food. Everyone has perfect manners while peaceful classical music drifts through the background. The kids use their utensils and always gobble up all the green things I put on their plates, then beg me for seconds followed by, "as long as you don't make me partake in dessert, Mother Dearest!" There is no gagging, crying and negotiating, and everyone cleans up after themselves when dinner is over. Apparently, these are the kinds of things that happen when you just get a breakfast nook. If only I had known all along.
I'm a big fan of this light fixture from West Elm. I wanted a fun, modern pop of light over the table. I'm still a little disappointed with the black electrical cord that hangs down from the top and am concocting a way to remedy it.
This little bell holds a special place in my heart. It was my companion for many hours of imaginary play as a child at my grandma's house. It seemed grown up and magical all at once. A few years ago when we were home visiting, my "Gaga" nonchalantly bequeathed it to my youngest child. After almost hyperventilating, I promptly told him I would "keep it safe" for him. He didn't love the idea, but I'm bigger than he is, so obviously, I won. The copper cup was a birthday gift from a dear friend.
The big blank space above the breakfast nook created some serious internal conflict in me. I have been looking for that perfect piece of art that will tie the room together. I assumed it would appear to me right before I had the kitchen photographed. Last year, when I was down to the wire finishing up my husband's office, I found 3 or 4 pieces of art at vintage/second hand stores in one day. Apparently, those stores never recovered from my haul. I went back and they had nothing. I searched Craigslist. I looked at all my favorite sources online. But I had waited too late. And now whatever I ordered wouldn't get here in time. I contacted super-talented artist friends to see if they had anything that would work for the space. I went on an "art walk" and showed official seeming people pictures of my blank wall. I begged artsy strangers for help. I made a lot of friends but came home art-less. I found pieces I loved for other spots in the house, and did land on a few pieces that could work for the nook. I came very close to buying something to keep from having a space with nothing. But then I realized that that was dumb. Was I really going to spend money on art that wasn't the one, just so it could be photographed for my own blog? That would be like marrying a guy who was nice enough, just so you could have someone to take to your high school reunion. (I realize that's a little hyperbolic, but you get the point.) When I finally decided that I would wait, I felt so relieved. So here is my blank wall, that will stay blank until I find the one. And then, I'll take another picture of it, and it might be with my iPhone, and that will be okay too.
I chose white quartz counters. I wasn't sure if I'd miss the Carrera marble that we put in a previous fixer-upper, but I wanted to try something new. I kept the counter at the desk area high, so that I could sit or stand at the computer. We also installed a wine fridge, because, well, wine.
I spend an inordinate amount of time sitting on that stool and staring at that computer, which is actually the computer I'm staring at right now, which means I might be caught in some kind of time vortex.
I chose 10 1/2 inch brass pulls for the larger drawers, and 5 inch pulls for the smaller ones. Whenever it was possible, I picked drawers over cabinets, since they give you a much better view of all the things you've stuffed inside of them.
This fruit bowl was a souvenir from a family trip a few years ago to Costa Rica, but let's be real, I don't buy whole artichokes on the regular.
Thanks so much for letting me share my kitchen rehab with y'all! I'm sure it will continue to evolve, and hopefully, that piece of art will make itself known sooner rather than later.
I'm looking forward to posting more of the projects I've got going on around here, and anyone else's projects I can get my hands on, too! Also, I'd love to introduce you to some of the beautiful shop owners and artists of all kinds I've met on my design adventures around LA.
Many thanks to the ridiculously talented Bethany Mollenkof for photographing my kitchen…and puppy, too!
I've heard it said that cabinet pulls are like jewelry for your kitchen. And I like jewelry. When I started looking at kitchen jewelry, I kept running into gold and brass beauties as I browsed Pinterest. Many people can't get past their negative associations with the brass and gold of the past to even consider thinking about putting the cuties in their current space. But the new gold or brass feels much more modern (and much less Donald Trump) than what we found in the kitchens and baths of yesteryear. Think 1989, the T-Swift album, not 1989, your middle school picture. There are matte and brushed options, and the lines are considerably cleaner. But if after considering your options, the gilded hardware still gives you the heebie jeebies, you should absolutely not use it. The Universal First rule of Design is to only use what you love. And I was head over heals for those gold/brass tones.
Thankfully, gold handles don't necessitate gold everything else. Just because you choose gold or brass handles doesn't mean you have to choose a gold faucet or a gold microwave (do those even exist? If they don't, they should.) I decided on 2 different lengths of gold square t-bar pulls for my lowers, and tiny cone knobs for my uppers. I love mixes, and a mix of handles not only keeps things interesting, but can help you to save a little money too. If you've fallen in love with handles that are a little more than you wanted to pay, you can use them strategically and fill in the rest with a coordinating but less expensive option. Usually, there is some sort of natural delineation in your cabinet configuration that can help you make the decision. Divide by uppers and lowers or drawers and cabinets. Go Wild.
I ordered my handles, and apparently, a lot of other people did too. It would be a long while before I could get my hands on those handles. If you need to order hardware, do so as soon as you know you need it. For some reason, hardware manufacturers like to create demand for their handles by only crafting enough for the people who have fake Pinterest kitchens. The rest of us normal people have to wait forever, and by the time we get them, the Pinterest people have moved on to handle-less cabinets. I spent the first month in our new kitchen with classic, yet modern blue painter's tape for handles. This makeshift hardware works by attaching the tape to the inside of the drawer so a little folded tail hangs out over the top and acts as a handle. Half of the time, that tail gets stuck inside, and there is no handle. When that happens, you start by grabbing the lip on the bottom of the bottom drawer and pull each drawer out, all the way up until you get to the drawer you want to open. By then, you've forgotten what you needed in the first place, and you don't care if you have handles or not.
Stick around! I'm hoping to be able to reveal my kitchen sometime in the next 2 weeks…unless, of course, I chicken out.
While I decided against using the black and white floor tiles (for now) I knew for sure that I still wanted a very black and white kitchen. Black cabinets on the bottom and light on top are often referred to as a tuxedo kitchen. This color scheme is ideal if you want the drama of dark cabinets, without the heaviness. The black bottoms keep the space grounded, while the light uppers keep it open and airy.
I also decided I wanted to mix cabinet styles. That may elicit a cringe from my friendly readers (the three who aren't blood related). I'm not sure exactly what drove me to that decision besides Pinterest and a fear of commitment. I do think it's a kind of amazing illustration of my personality. As I've firmly established, choosing is not a thing that comes easy for me. I'm naturally an optimist, and I often believe that there will always be something better. It's a good thing my husband wasn't lacking in the self-confidence department when he wooed me. At some point early on in our engagement, I was very honest about how scared I was to be making such a big decision (we were babies, by the way). He remained completely unshaken and responded with, "If you don't marry me, who the hell are you gonna marry?" Clearly, he was the one for me.
Unfortunately, cabinets don't speak quite as clearly as young, overly confidant fiancés. I vacillated between having the cabinets custom made and going the Ikea route. Ikea cabinets are basically magic. All it takes to be under their spell is to walk into an Ikea. Granted, it might take you 3 years to find the kitchen department, but once you do, you're toast (that was a kitchen joke.) Ikea kitchens are Nordic fairy lands where spices stay organized, cabinets flaunt their spacious quarters, and trash doesn't stink. You really do believe that you will instantaneously become a hip, yet organized Swedish model/chef if you simply get your hands on one of those Fyorjofferståtinkis. (Did I make that up? Maybe you should learn Swedish and find out.) Since Ikea cabinets are affordable, easily acquired, and get rave reviews from users, I decided to put my money on them.
In the end, I chose black shaker cabinets for the bottom and modern, high-gloss, white uppers. I also added some custom open shelving in walnut, and a custom walnut island. A few years ago, if you would have told me I'd be putting shiny, modern, white cabinets in my kitchen I probably would have told you to stop cussing. Before moving to the West Coast, I was not a fan of modern anything (except medical practices). But the more I saw those clean, unfussy lines, the more they grew on me. I took a chance on not choosing just one style of cabinet and prayed that all these disparate choices would play nicely together.
Backsplashes probably didn't even exist until people had time to stop worrying about their crops freezing or their family members catching the plague from the fleas who lived on their house rats. Before there were backsplashes people just had…walls. Then a sneaky tile maker named Howard realized he could make a mint if he convinced people that they shouldn't just tile their floors; they should keep going ALL THE WAY UP THE WALL. We should actually be grateful to Howard for beating the rug guy, Harry, to it, because cleaning bacon grease off of a Persian rug or (worse!) shag carpet on the wall behind the stove would be super gross.
Thankfully, choosing my backsplash did not create the level of internal conflict in me that choosing my floor did. In fact, I felt as though my backsplash decision was clear, and for this, I rejoiced. The white brick in the den and master bedroom was one of the characteristics of the house that made me fall in love with it. In a house that seemed very confused about who it was, the painted brick gave it a sense of history. It felt old, yet clean and fresh. The kitchen shared the white brick wall with the den, but the kitchen side was tile. Knowing that I wanted to incorporate a few modern design elements in my kitchen, I felt like using the brick as a backsplash would keep the space grounded. Although a painted brick backsplash isn't quite as easy to clean as tile, it sure beats cleaning a shag rug.
Actually, this IS my (mid-renovation) kitchen. Stick with me on this photo thing. I know these pics are depressing, but I included the other pictures of beautiful kitchens so that your eyes would have something pretty, well-photographed, and finished to enjoy.
Also, because it's the best, you should read this post from Victoria Elizabeth Barnes about kitchen madness. It's an oldie, but a goodie.
Demo on my kitchen had begun, and the clock was ticking. I had to make a decision about these darn tiles, and it it had to be the right one, because everybody knows that interior design is a TEST. There are right and wrong answers. If you make the wrong decision, people will secretly take pictures of your house and pin them on their Pinterest board entitled "Design Fails" and you will get famous for failing so hard. I did not want that to happen. So I did a lot of research, which is obviously the best way to do interior design.
I'm only joking…ish. I think one of the reasons redesigning a kitchen is rough for those who are decision averse is that the decisions being made are not small, inexpensive decisions. This is not like buying that pillow on the clearance aisle at Target that you may not like a year from now (or when you get home from the store). And it's definitely not like picking a nail color at the salon (which, as my friends can attest, takes me an embarrassingly long time). I'm talking about choosing floors that I actually have to pay people to INSTALL in my house, with like, tools and grout and stuff.
I spent a lot of time looking at tiles here , here, and here. And occasionally, I had the fortune of stumbling upon one of these gems in person.
I had to choose from the in-stock tiles on these websites, and while I really did love so many of them, I had little nagging doubts about every design. One felt too trendy. Another felt too ornate. The scale on another just didn't seem right. If time is not a factor in your kitchen reno, you can actually custom design your tiles. This was not the case for me, though. I couldn't allow my procrastination about this decision to hold up the whole renovation. I was starting to have flashbacks from my high school junior year Research Biology science project…and we all know how that turned out. At one point, I thought I was nearing a decision, but when I put the tiles in the price estimator, I got a sinking feeling. Was the price doable? Yes. But did I have that "know that you know" for the price? I couldn't say that I did.
After many hours spent with the black and white encaustic beauties, I bailed. I decided to go with good old white porcelain hexagon tiles. While part of me felt as though I was missing an opportunity for something funky and fresh, another part of me felt relieved.
While decisions can be challenging for me, I'm a huge fan of taking risks in design, as is evidenced by my very orange, very large, velvet living room sectional. But sometimes a particular risk just doesn't sit right, and you don't really know why. Maybe it wasn't the tile that I was so drawn to in Jessica Helgerson's kitchen, maybe it was that high contrast black and white overall color scheme, the open shelving, and the swaths of wood to warm it up. But I know what you're thinking, "Can she get the same dramatic feel without that gorgeous statement tile?" These are the kinds of deep, soul-searching questions we will fearlessly face here together my friends. Be brave.
Also, I still have some bathrooms to renovate, so you know, those tiles and I just might have a future together.
When we moved into our house one of the first things I noticed was the hardwoods. Like any person with eyes, I love hardwoods. They are so versatile. They are at home in lofts and farmhouses, massive villas and tiny apartments. Though many will disagree, I love hardwoods in a kitchen (water damage, I scoff at you! ) If we were going to rip out the floor in our kitchen, hardwoods would be the obvious choice for a replacement, right?! But to employ my 7-year-old's current favorite phrase, here's the thing: I didn't like these hardwoods. This is clearly on the list of first-world problems, maybe even akin to that time Kanye said, "Fur pillows are actually hard to sleep on." Now that I've acknowledged that, I'll move on.
One of my favorite things about Jessica Helgerson's kitchen design was those beautiful black and white encaustic tiles she used. I decided that for my kitchen, the floor would be black and white. Funky black and white tiles were popping up everywhere, so I figured finding the ones I loved wouldn't be too daunting. Here are just a few of the photos that guided my search… Which is your favorite?
After sealing the deal on our new digs, we had about 6 weeks to our move-in date, which is plenty of time to completely renovate a kitchen…if you want to develop an eye tick, sink into a depression, and allow small animals to nest in your hair. Okay, the animals didn't actually nest in my hair. It was more like a sleepover. I was incredibly fortunate to have an amazing contractor that I was introduced to by a designer I worked with on another project. Pablo was certain that he could get the kitchen to a livable point by our move-in day. That meant that all I had to do was to come up with a reasonable plan for the new kitchen. Easy! I could just go to Pinterest, find a kitchen I liked, and say to him "Can you please make it look like this? And can you please put that wall thingy beside the cabinet doohickie?" The end.
In all seriousness, Pinterest is an amazing resource. Yes, it can give us incredibly unrealistic standards for just about anything, but when you feel overwhelmed with all of the possible options, it's a great place to begin to figure out the identity and feel you want your space to have. I find that when I know the general direction I'm heading, it makes the decision making process much easier. A few pictures of rooms you love give you an anchor point when you feel like you've lost your way in a sea of possibilities. Your room is not going to be a carbon copy of that pin from your favorite blogger or pinner…and that's a good thing. Your space, budget, and personality are not their's, and that's what makes the design process so much fun. Pick a few things that made you fall in love with that room, and incorporate those elements. I decided I would let my Spanish roof lead the way. Although my house would never be a true Spanish villa, I knew I could incorporate nods to la casa buried somewhere under that vertical siding.
This kitchen by Jessica Helgerson inspired and yes, haunted me throughout the design process. It had a Spanish feel without the overly ornate elements that can keep a Spanish space from feeling young and fresh. The black, white, and brass color scheme with the splashes of wood for warmth made my heart skip a beat. While I knew I wanted to go in a more modern direction, there were so many things about this kitchen that kept drawing me back in (maybe it's that incredible loaf of carbohydrates sitting on that gorgeous table, turned island.) I had my jumping off point. Now there were only 563,721 more decisions to go. | {
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CHEAPEST 22x75 IN SUADAMAI !!
*** Important note : the pictures are not actual photos of the property for sale and used for illustration only to protect owner's privacy. Kindly pm me for actual photos. Few units available for sale RM600 - 680k.
CALL NOW BEFORE IT'S GONE !! | {
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Home >> Uk + Ireland >> Wales >> Flintshire >>
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"A township, in the parish of Malpas, union of Ellesmere, hundred of Maelor, county of Flint, 2½ miles WNW from Whitchurch; containing 515 inhabitants. This place is situated on the borders of Cheshire and Shropshire, and is the most eastern district in all Wales; it comprises an area of 2600 acres. The road from Whitchurch to Wrexham passes through the township, and the Wich brook, which falls into the River Dee near Worthenbury, bounds it to the north. ...
In the township is Whitewell Chapel, about four miles and a half from Malpas, in which divine service is performed twice every Sunday." [A Topographical Dictionary of Wales, S. Lewis, 1849]
The parish of Whitewell lies entirely in Flintshire, occupying the north-eastern portion of Maelor Saesneg, the detached part of Flintshire. However, for ecclesiastical purposes, it has always been associated with Malpas, Cheshire; and it is in the Diocese of Chester.
The parish is also known as Iscoyd (or Iscoed).
It should not be confused with the Denbighshire parish of Isycoed, which lies a few miles to the north-west, nor with the Flintshire (Maelor Saesneg) parish of Bangor Isycoed.
They are three quite distinct and separate parishes.
Godsal, Philip Thomas. Notes on the origin of the county of Flint, the Hundred of Maelor and the parish of Iscoyd Wrexham: Woodall, Minshall, Thomas; [1902]
Veysey, A. Geoffrey. The Godsals of Iscoyd Park Clwyd Historian = Hanes Bro Clwyd. No. 47 (Autumn 2001), p. 7-11
Higher Wych Methodist Chapel, Higher Wych
You can also perform a more selective search for churches in the Whitewell (Iscoyd) area or see them printed on a map.
Ordnance Survey reference SJ495414.
St. Mary's Church is delightfully situated; but it is in a secluded spot, and is quite difficult to find!
The two wells from which the name is derived lie to the south of the church. There is indication of a place of worship on the site from very early times; and the parish registers of Malpas show that a chapel was in use at Whitewell in 1570.
The old black and white chapel, which was constructed of timber and plaster, collapsed in 1829 while attempts were being made to restore and enlarge it. Sketches of the old chapel, drawn by Miss Marianne Congreve, the local landowner, have survived.
The present building, of brick, cement-washed white, was constructed about 1830, at the expense of Miss Congreve. Some parts of the old chapel were used in the construction of the new building, especially the roof timbers and various oak panelling. The spire and clock were added in 1898.
Whitewell was a chapel of ease within the parish of Malpas (Cheshire) until 1885. By an Order in Council on 19 May 1885, it was created a parish in its own right; and although entirely in Wales, it remained within the Diocese of Chester for ecclesiastical purposes. Following the disestablishment of the Church in Wales in 1920, the parishioners elected to stay with the Church of England, in the Diocese of Chester.
The Clwyd FHS website has a photograph of the church.
Nonconformist Churches
"Welsh Church Commission - County of Flint - The Statistics of the Nonconformist Churches for 1905" lists the following nonconformist places of worship in the Civil parish of Iscoyd :
Name of Chapel
Number of "adherents"
Not named - Higher Wych Primitive Methodist 70
Not named - Lower Wych Primitive Methodist 67
Until 1885, baptisms, marriages and burials at Whitewell were recorded in the registers of St. Oswald, Malpas. These registers, from 1561, have been deposited in Cheshire Record Office.
From 1885, the parish church of Whitewell has kept its own registers. These have not been deposited, and are understood to be held by the incumbent.
When Civil Registration was introduced (on 1 July 1837), the parish of Whitewell / Iscoyd was assigned to the Ellesmere Registration District, which was co-extensive with the Ellesmere poor law Union.
In 1853, the parish was transferred to the Whitchurch Registration District.
In the GRO indexes to civil registration, entries for xx are in the format :
Years 1837 - 1851: Ellesmere XVIII. nnn
Years 1851 - 1853: Ellesmere 6a. nnn
Years 1853 - 1930: Whitchurch 6a. nnn
(GRO index references have no relevance at the local Superintendent Registrar's Office)
You can see pictures of Whitewell which are provided by:
For Iscoed see the transcription for Malpas from the National Gazetteer (1868), provided by Colin Hinson.
Ask for a calculation of the distance from Whitewell to another place.
You can see the administrative areas in which Whitewell has been placed at times in the past. Select one to see a link to a map of that particular area.
"North-East Wales Churches and Ancient Parish Boundaries" produced by Clwyd Record Office in 1994, published by Genuki with the permission of Flintshire Record Office and Denbighshire Archives
Kain, R.J.P., Oliver, R.R., Historic Parishes of England and Wales: an Electronic Map of Boundaries before 1850 with a Gazetteer and Metadata [computer file]. Colchester, Essex: History Data Service, UK Data Archive [distributor], 17 May 2001. SN: 4348. Here is a gazetteer/finding aid plus a set of overview maps to accurately identify the position of parishes within the county
Plan of the township of Iscoyd in the parish of Malpas in the County of Flint on the People's Collection Wales site
You can see maps centred on OS grid reference SJ495414 (Lat/Lon: 52.967569, -2.75336), Whitewell which are provided by:
We are looking for somebody who can help with the maintenance of this page, which currently has a status of Care and maintenance - A maintainer is correcting broken links, but is not active in updating the section's web pages. For more information about what helping us entails, look at our help wanted page. If you would like to consider helping us then please contact Gareth Hicks.
Last updated 18 March, 2019 - 12:49 - maintained by Gareth Hicks | {
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Churchill Insurance partners with WCRS and Ocean Outdoor in an award-winning digital out of home campaign featuring Churchie the iconic dog serving live, personalised messages to drivers.
'Churchie's Drive-Thru Car Insurance', created by WCRS, won the 2016 Creative Techniques award in Ocean's annual digital creative competition that fosters innovation in digital out of home.
WCRS' campaign leverages Ocean's pioneering vehicle recognition technology on the large format Holland Park Roundabout tri-screen in West London, using a retro American drive-thru diner theme to promote Churchill's car insurance policy.
Churchie interacts directly with motorists by serving them super-targeted, playful creative which is triggered by the make, model and colour of stationary vehicles as they wait at the traffic lights opposite.
Selected cars trigger one of more than 18,000 possible messages each day – everything from "Morning red convertible! Keep the wind in your hair with our free roadside assistance" and "Sporty turquoise Boxter, Keep those wheels hot. Repairs guaranteed for 5 years", to "Morning Prius! You care for the planet; we care for you. 24/7 breakdown cover".
The campaign runs from April 5 to April 8. | {
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Offense Addresses The 'Elephant In The Room'
DallasCowboys.com Senior Writer
FRISCO, Texas – The Cowboys' offense knows they are capable of much more than they've shown in three losses away from AT&T Stadium. The 40-7 home blowout against Jacksonville is proof.
With their fourth road trip of the season looming this Sunday at Washington, the group discussed solutions in a productive meeting Thursday.
"We just addressed the elephant in the room as an offense," quarterback Dak Prescott said. "I think it was great, it was a great meeting. We had the whole offense in there just talking among coaches and players about maybe things we need to do to get better, just communicating."
Communication has been the primary issue, or elephant, as Prescott said. In losses to Carolina, Seattle and Houston, the offense didn't carry out assignments consistently at each level, from the quarterback to the protection to the skill players. The Cowboys posted a season-high 40 points against Jacksonville, but only 37 combined in those three defeats.
Crowd noise is always a factor, but the Cowboys have shown the ability to handle it before. In 2016, a special rookie year for Dak Prescott and running back Ezekiel Elliott, the club went 6-2 on the road, including a regular-season finale loss at Philadelphia when most starters were held out for the playoffs.
"If we're all on the same page and we've got all our assignments down, then I think we'll be in a good spot," Elliott said.
Many faces on offense have changed. There are two new starters on the offensive line and new rotations at receiver and tight end. But head coach Jason Garrett doesn't believe youth is an excuse.
"Possibly, but that's irrelevant," he said. "What's relevant is we have to do a better job of it. At times on the road, when we were all together and communicated well and everybody was on the same page, we executed pretty well. But there are too many examples in each of those games where we didn't do that. There's a lot of different factors for that, a lot of different reasons for that. But the fact is, we've got to get it right."
A primary focus of the meeting, Prescott said, is better poise on third down.
The Cowboys rank 30th in third-down efficiency, converting only 31.2 percent of the time. By comparison, the undefeated L.A. Rams lead the league with a 46.4 conversion rate.
There's no question the Dallas offense has found a better rhythm at home. They were 15-of-39 (38.5 percent) in wins over the Giants, Lions and Jaguars. Cole Beasley was Prescott's top target last Sunday, catching all 7 third down conversions.
On the road? Only 9-of-38 (23.7 percent) so far.
"That's when the crowd is loudest," Prescott said. "And that's when the communication is most prominent.
"I know we'll take a lot from that conversation and our communication will be better. We had a great day of practice today and yesterday. Just got to carry it over to Sunday." | {
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The Windows UI seems to be eating mouse events.
Click column heading to sort. Success.
Click column heading to sort again. Failure.
Click Edit>Preferences to open Preferences.
This behavior started happening recently with v1.3.9, I think. I may have had v1.3.7 or v1.3.8 installed. In any case, I updated to v1.3.11 in hopes that the issue would be resolved but that was not the case.
I can select UI elements with the mouse and then use the keyboard to, for example, activate a column header. There is no issue here. The UI does not eat key events.
The author suggests that insensitive GTK widgets (except children of viewports) eat mouse events.
I cannot replicate can you provide system information.
Then it's a GTK issue on Windows. We rely on binary GTK releases but since there are no more being built for Windows there is little we can do. | {
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Конститу́ция США () — основной закон Соединённых Штатов Америки, имеющий высшую юридическую силу. Конституция США была принята 17 сентября 1787 года на Конституционном Конвенте в Филадельфии и впоследствии ратифицирована всеми тринадцатью существовавшими тогда американскими штатами. Считается первой в мире конституцией в современном понимании. Состоит из семи статей, за время действия Конституции были приняты двадцать семь поправок, которые являются её неотъемлемой частью.
В основе Конституции США лежит принцип разделения властей между законодательной (конгресс), исполнительной (президент) и судебной (верховный суд и нижестоящие суды) ветвями. Штатам США даются широкие права в области законодательства.
История создания и ратификации
В 1783 году Версальским мирным договором завершилась Война за независимость США. Ещё в 1777 году, в разгар войны, Второй Континентальный конгресс принял Статьи Конфедерации, документ конституционного характера, который определял Соединённые штаты как конфедерацию и закреплял полномочия центральных органов. В 1781 году Статьи были ратифицированы последним, тринадцатым, штатом и официально вступили в силу. Многие отмечали слабость этого союза: во-первых, Статьи Конфедерации предоставляли центральным органам минимальные полномочия, а во-вторых, при голосовании в Конгрессе Конфедерации (высший орган власти) по любому вопросу требовалось единогласное решение всех штатов, так что один штат мог заблокировать любую инициативу. Джордж Вашингтон образно назвал Статьи Конфедерации «верёвками из песка» (). Поэтому быстро начали появляться предложения о внесении в Статьи различных изменений.
В сентябре 1786 года представители пяти штатов (Нью-Джерси, Нью-Йорк, Пенсильвания, Делавэр, Виргиния) собрались в Аннаполисе для того, чтобы обсудить поправки к Статьям Конфедерации, касавшиеся отмены таможенных барьеров между штатами. Конференция оказалась недостаточно представительной (делегаты из ещё нескольких штатов не успели добраться в Аннаполис вовремя, часть штатов проигнорировали конференцию), поэтому делегаты обратились к Конгрессу Конфедерации с просьбой созвать в мае следующего (1787) года в Филадельфии конференцию, в которой участвовали бы представители всех штатов и которая имела бы достаточно полномочий для пересмотра Статей Конфедерации.
Конституционный конвент в Филадельфии
21 февраля 1787 года Конгресс Конфедерации принял резолюцию о созыве Конвента «с единственной и выраженной целью пересмотра Статей Конфедерации» (). Двенадцать штатов (за исключением Род-Айленда) утвердили в общей сложности 70 делегатов, которые должны были участвовать в Конвенте. Хотя первоначальной целью Конвента был именно пересмотр Статей Конфедерации и вопрос о выработке нового документа не ставился, постепенно делегаты пришли к заключению о необходимости создания новой Конституции, которая бы утвердила территориальное устройство федерации и систему органов власти, принципиально отличающиеся от существовавших на тот момент. Обсуждение проекта было закрытым, однако Джеймс Мэдисон, один из основных авторов Конституции, на протяжении всего Конвента вёл записки, благодаря которым стали известны многие подробности заседаний и точки зрения участников дискуссий.
Основной спор на Филадельфийском конвенте развернулся между сторонниками двух конституционных моделей, которые получили названия «План Виргиния» и «План Нью-Джерси» (по названиям штатов, которые представляли делегаты — авторы моделей). В «Плане Виргиния» (его авторство принадлежало в основном Мэдисону) основной упор делался на создание системы федеральных органов, которые обладали бы значительными полномочиями. В частности, федеральное правительство предлагалось наделить правом вето на законы, принимаемые легислатурами (законодательными органами) штатов, в случае необходимости применять военную силу против отдельных штатов. Согласно «Плану Виргиния», на федеральном уровне должны были быть созданы двухпалатный законодательный орган (причём верхняя палата легислатуры должна была избираться членами нижней палаты), правительство, избираемое законодательным органом на семь лет, и судебная система, основанная на принципе несменяемости судей. «План» был официально представлен губернатором Виргинии Эдмундом Рэндолфом 29 мая 1787 года.
«План Нью-Джерси», предложенный Уильямом Патерсоном, отражал интересы мелких штатов. Патерсон предлагал внести некоторые изменения в Статьи Конфедерации, в том числе закрепить верховенство федерального законодательства, не изменяя сути документа. Права штатов предлагалось обеспечить, закрепив равное представительство от каждого штата в законодательном органе. Таким образом, отдельные штаты сохраняли бы большую самостоятельность. Дебаты по «Плану Нью-Джерси» длились с 13 по 16 июня 1787 года и закончились его отклонением. Свой «План» выдвинул Александр Гамильтон, делегат от Нью-Йорка, сторонник британской модели парламентаризма и монархической формы правления. «План Гамильтона» имел много общего с существовавшей на тот момент в Великобритании формой правления, хотя Гамильтон формально не выдвигал предложения об учреждении монархии. Большинство делегатов были настроены на кардинальный разрыв с колониальным наследием, поэтому предложение Гамильтона не нашло поддержки.
Хотя «План Виргиния» уже был взят за основу будущей Конституции, долгое время не было разрешено принципиальное противоречие о порядке формирования законодательного органа (Конгресса). Делегаты от крупных штатов настаивали на пропорциональном представительстве в зависимости от населения каждого штата, делегаты от мелких — на равном представительстве независимо от населения. Компромисс (часто называемый Коннектикутским, или Великим, компромиссом, ) был предложен делегатом от Коннектикута Роджером Шерманом, который вероятно являлся и одним из авторов «Плана Нью-Джерси». Палата представителей избиралась по территориальному принципу, а в Сенате штаты были представлены на равной основе. На Конституционном конгрессе остро стоял и вопрос о рабстве. В результате было принято решение сохранить рабовладение на ближайшие двадцать лет, чтобы этот вопрос решали будущие поколения. В тексте Конституции этот вопрос затрагивался в четырёх статьях: раздел 9 статьи I разрешал ввоз рабов, раздел 2 статьи IV запрещал способствование побегу рабов и устанавливал обязанность их возврата, раздел 2 статьи I устанавливал, что при определении численности населения каждого штата учитывалось только три пятых от общего числа рабов в каждом штате (в этом разделе вместо слова «рабы» использовался термин «другие люди» — ). Согласно статье V эти положения не могли быть изменены до 1808 года, что и обеспечивало «отложение» решения вопроса о рабстве на двадцать лет.
Ратификация
17 сентября проект Конституции был готов, и возник вопрос о ратификации Конституции штатами. В своей заключительной речи Бенджамин Франклин настаивал на том, чтобы Конституция вступала в силу только после ратификации всеми тринадцатью штатами. Статья 13 Конфедерации также предусматривала, что для изменения Статей требовались принятие соответствующего решения Конгрессом Конфедерации и последующая ратификация всеми штатами. Тем не менее, в статью VII Конституции было внесено положение о том, что Конституция вступает в силу после ратификации конвентами девяти штатов, но только для тех штатов, которые её ратифицировали. Эта норма фактически означала, что в случае отказа какого-либо штата ратифицировать Конституцию этот штат выходит из состава федерации.
Проект Конституции был направлен Конгрессу Конфедерации. Одновременно на сессию Конгресса вернулись делегаты Конвента Мэдисон, Руфус Кинг и Натаниэль Горэм, которые выступили в поддержку проекта. В результате Конгресс одобрил проект и передал его штатам для ратификации.
Во время дискуссий, сопровождавших ратификацию Конституции, сложились две «партии» — «Федералисты» (выступали за ратификацию) и «Антифедералисты». Антифедералисты утверждали, что после принятия Конституции и утверждения централизованного правительства будут ущемляться права штатов и права личности, а президент получит власть, сопоставимую с тиранической властью британского короля перед Войной за независимость. Мэдисон, Гамильтон и Джон Джей под коллективным псевдонимом Публий (в честь римского консула периода республики Публия Валерия Публиколы) начали издавать журнал Федералист (), в котором они обосновывали необходимость принятия новой Конституции и новой системы органов власти. Федералист (всего вышло 85 выпусков) считается ценнейшим источником для толкования Конституции, поскольку в Федералисте значение положений Конституции разъясняется самими её авторами.
Первым Конституцию ратифицировал Делавэр (7 декабря 1787 г.), девятым штатом стал Нью-Гемпшир (21 июня 1788 г.). При этом в одних штатах ратификация проходила единогласно, в то время как в других шла упорная борьба вплоть до момента голосования в конвенте. В Нью-Йорке первоначально против ратификации выступали две трети конвента; Гамильтон лично сумел переубедить многих депутатов, и 27 июля 1788 года конвент Нью-Йорка ратифицировал Конституцию с преимуществом в три голоса и с рекомендацией принять Билль о правах. Аналогичная рекомендация была принята в Массачусетсе и некоторых других штатах. 13 сентября 1788 года Континентальный Конгресс принял резолюцию о введении Конституции в действие. 4 марта 1789 года (ещё до того, как Конституцию ратифицировали Северная Каролина и Род-Айленд) начали работу новые федеральные органы власти, созданные в соответствии с новой Конституцией.
Источники
Некоторые идеи, которые легли в основу конституции, были новым словом отцов-основателей в политической истории, в то время как некоторые были взяты из работ философов XVII—XVIII веков и существовавших в то время конституционных документов. Огромное влияние на Конституцию США оказали работы французского просветителя Монтескьё, в первую очередь его произведение «О духе законов», в котором Монтескьё изложил свои взгляды на разделение властей. Монтескьё считал, что любой человек, сосредоточив в своих руках неограниченную власть, начнёт злоупотреблять ей. При этом он допускал реализацию разделения властей и в монархическом государстве. В рамках концепции разделения властей Монтескьё предлагал сделать установление и взимание налогов исключительным полномочием законодательного органа, который через финансирование исполнительной власти мог бы влиять на её деятельность, а исполнительной власти предоставить право вето на принятые законодательным органом законы. Законы должны были бы проходить через обе палаты двухпалатного законодательного органа. Судебная власть должна быть независимой от двух других ветвей. Все эти положения вошли в Конституцию США. В Конституции принцип разделения властей воплощён в наиболее «жёстком» виде, когда возможность одной ветви власти влиять на деятельность другой ветви сведена к минимуму: президент лишён возможности распустить конгресс или какую-либо из его палат, в свою очередь должностные лица исполнительной власти не несут политической ответственности за свои действия перед конгрессом (конгресс может отрешить любое должностное лицо за преступления в порядке импичмента, но не за несогласие с проводимой политикой).
Важную роль сыграла теория общественного договора, разработанная ещё в XVII веке Томасом Гоббсом и получившая развитие в трудах Джона Локка, Жан-Жака Руссо, Монтескьё и других философов Просвещения. Согласно этой теории, люди до возникновения государства находились в состоянии первобытной («естественной») свободы, но пришли к необходимости создания государства, которому они бы отдавали часть свобод, получая взамен защиту, правосудие и гарантию соблюдения своих прав. При этом Гоббс был сторонником абсолютной монархии и противником разделения властей. Отголосок этой теории можно найти в преамбуле Конституции США: народ принимает Конституцию в целях обеспечения внутреннего спокойствия, организации совместной обороны и содействия общему благосостоянию.
Младший современник Гоббса Джон Локк является автором сразу нескольких идей, нашедших своё отражение в Конституции. Во-первых, Локк является создателем теории естественных прав, которые даны людям Богом, принадлежат всем людям с рождения и не могут быть ущемлены монархом. К естественным правам Локк относил права на жизнь, свободу, здоровье и собственность. Во-вторых, Локк развивал теорию общественного договора: по его мнению, люди, которые заключили договор и выбрали себе правительство, вправе свергнуть его, если правительство нарушило условия общественного договора и использует власть не в интересах народа.
Теория федерального устройства государства была известна и до создания Соединённых Штатов. В частности, Монтескьё считал федерализм с возможностью отделения одной из гарантий соблюдения прав граждан. Федерализм в США возник потому, что до возникновения Соединённых Штатов отдельные штаты существовали как колонии с собственными органами власти и осознанием своей самостоятельности. До начала работы над Конституцией проблематика федерализма была слабо изучена. Первым опытом закрепления федеративного устройства были Статьи Конфедерации, однако отсутствие у органов центральной власти многих важных полномочий снижало эффективность федерации. По этой причине в Конституции федерация претерпела серьёзные изменения. Основные идеи, обосновавшие новое федеративное устройство, были изложены Мэдисоном, Гамильтоном и Джеем в Федералисте в период борьбы за ратификацию Конституции между Федералистами и Антифедералистами. Основной задачей федералистов было передать в ведение центральной власти оборону, международную торговлю и некоторые другие вопросы и обеспечить применение изданных федерацией законов на всей территории страны. Возражая тем, кто опасался, что после принятия Конституции федерация подавит самоуправление в отдельных штатах, Мэдисон писал:
Деятельность федерального правительства будет наиболее обширной и важной в периоды войн и опасностей; деятельность правительств штатов — в периоды мира и безопасности.
Таким образом, подчёркивалось, что в компетенцию федеральных органов будут попадать вопросы общегосударственного значения, а внутренние дела штатов остаются в ведении штатов.
Конституционализм возник в британских колониях ещё в XVII веке: первой конституцией (документом, в котором устанавливалась система управления колонией) считаются Основные законы Коннектикута (), принятые в 1639 году. После принятия Декларации независимости (1776) все 13 колоний в период с 1776 по 1787 год приняли свои конституции, наиболее важными из которых считаются конституции Виргинии (в ней впервые было использовано само слово «конституция») и Пенсильвании. Авторами Конституции Виргинии были Мэдисон, Джефферсон и Джордж Мейсон; работа Мэдисона над Конституцией Виргинии впоследствии помогла ему в создании Конституции США.
Джон Куинси Адамс называл в числе предшественников Конституции Мейфлауэрское соглашение 1620 года. Существует точка зрения, что определённое влияние на Конституцию оказал Великий закон мира — неписаный закон ирокезов, якобы дарованный им полулегендарным вождём Гайаватой, однако она не является общепризнанной.
Многие положения британских конституционных актов, таких как Хабеас корпус акт и Билль о правах, которые обеспечивали различные гарантии прав личности, были включены в Конституцию и в Билль о правах.
Структура Конституции
Конституция США состоит из преамбулы, семи статей и двадцати семи поправок (в том числе десять поправок, составляющие Билль о правах).
Преамбула
содержит единственное предложение. Сама по себе преамбула не является источником прямого действия, а только разъясняет основное назначение конституции. Преамбула, особенно первые слова («Мы, народ» — «We the people»), является одним из часто цитируемых разделов конституции.
Мы, народ Соединенных Штатов, в целях образования более совершенного Союза, утверждения правосудия, обеспечения внутреннего спокойствия, организации совместной обороны, содействия общему благосостоянию и обеспечения нам и нашему потомству благ свободы, учреждаем и принимаем эту Конституцию для Соединенных Штатов Америки.
Таким образом, выделяется пять целей Конституции:
Обеспечение лучшей кооперации между штатами
Гарантия справедливости и общественного порядка
Обеспечение защиты от внешних врагов
Обеспечение процветания населения
Защита свобод в настоящем и в будущем
Преамбула содержит исключительно важное положение о том, что Конституция принимается народом Соединённых Штатов в целом.
В Конституции США отсутствует отдельная глава о правах и свободах граждан, которая есть в большинстве современных конституций (отчасти этот недостаток был устранён после принятия Билля о правах), поскольку создатели Конституции считали, что основные права указаны в преамбуле.
В деле Джейкобсон против Массачусетса (1905 год) Джейкобсон заявлял, что из преамбулы прямо вытекает его личное право на «блага свободы». Верховный суд в решении по этому делу указал:
Хотя преамбула обозначает общие цели, ради достижения которых народ принял Конституцию, она никогда не считалась источником каких-либо конкретных полномочий, возложенных на правительство Соединённых Штатов или какой-либо из его департаментов.
Упоминание о «более совершённом Союзе» связано с тем, что Конституция США справедливо считалась более совершенным документом, чем Статьи Конфедерации, поскольку предусматривала создание сильного федерального правительства, которое имело достаточно полномочий для проведения собственной политики и обеспечения единства государства.
Законодательная власть
Статья I посвящена законодательной власти, которую олицетворяет Конгресс США, включающий в себя Палату представителей (нижнюю палату) и Сенат (верхнюю палату). В статье описаны процедура выборов в каждую из палат, требования к кандидатам, полномочия Конгресса и законодательный процесс. Статья гарантирует иммунитет сенаторов и представителей от преследования за мнения, высказанные в ходе дебатов, и заработную плату на весь срок мандата. В 1819 году верховный суд США под председательством Джона Маршалла рассмотрел дело Маккаллох против Мэриленда и постановил, что конгресс вправе принимать законы и по вопросам, которые прямо не отнесены к его ведению Статьёй I, если это необходимо для того, чтобы осуществлять указанные в Конституции полномочия. В 1913 году Семнадцатой поправкой в Статью I было внесено важное изменение, которое устанавливало прямые выборы сенаторов. До этого сенаторы избирались легислатурами штатов.
Конституция закрепила основные процедуры работы парламента. Кворум установлен на уровне большинства от избранного числа членов палаты. При этом чётко указано, что в отсутствие кворума палата может принимать решения лишь об объявлении перерыва или принятию мер по обеспечению кворума. Закреплено право одной пятой присутствующих членов палаты потребовать проведения любого голосования в поимённом режиме, а также право каждой палаты самостоятельно принимать регламент своей работы.
Интересной особенностью статьи 1 Конституции США стала процедура разрешения избирательных споров: любые споры о легитимности мандата депутата или сенатора решает та палата, членом которой он является.
Исполнительная власть
Статья II гласит, что исполнительная власть предоставляется президенту Соединённых Штатов.
В должность президента может быть выбран только тот, кто родился гражданином Соединенных штатов или кто был гражданином во время утверждения Конституции; не может быть избран на эту должность тот, кто не достиг тридцатипятилетнего возраста и не имел в течение четырнадцати лет постоянного жительства в Соединенных Штатах.
В случае удаления президента от должности или в случае смерти, выхода в отставку или неспособности пользоваться правами и исполнять свои обязанности его заменяет вице-президент.
В статье описаны порядок выборов, требования к кандидату в президенты, клятва, которую президент приносит при вступлении в должность, полномочия президента. Также статья вводит институт вице-президента США, который избирается одновременно с президентом. Двадцать пятая поправка закрепила правило, согласно которому вице-президент занимает пост президента в случае досрочного прекращения его полномочий. Первоначальный текст был неудачно сформулирован и оставлял возможность различного толкования того, становится ли вице-президент президентом или просто исполняет его обязанности до следующих выборов. Первый прецедент случился в 1841 году, когда девятый президент Уильям Генри Гаррисон умер спустя месяц после вступления в должность, и вице-президент Джон Тайлер стал десятым президентом. Таким образом Двадцать пятая поправка закрепила сложившееся правило. В 1951 году была ратифицирована Двадцать вторая поправка, которая установила, что никто не может занимать пост президента более двух сроков. Кроме того, в этой же статье предусмотрена возможность отрешения от должности всех гражданских должностных лиц, включая президента (импичмент). В разделе 2 Статьи II упоминаются «высшие должностные лица каждого из департаментов исполнительной власти» (). Фактически это единственное упоминание о кабинете президента США — аналоге правительства.
Судебная власть
Статья III описывает судебную систему США, которая состоит из Верховного суда и нижестоящих судов, которые должны быть учреждены конгрессом. Верховный суд является судом первой инстанции по очень небольшому перечню дел, все остальные дела могут рассматриваться верховным судом в порядке пересмотра. Судьи всех судов несменяемы. В этой же статье установлено обязательное рассмотрение всех уголовных дел судами присяжных и дано определение государственной измены.
Равенство штатов
Статья IV касается взаимоотношений между штатами и федерацией. Она предусматривает обязанность должностных лиц штатов оказывать «полное доверие и уважение» () официальным актам (в том числе судебным актам) и документам других штатов и запрещает дискриминацию граждан других штатов. Устанавливается принцип судебной юрисдикции по месту совершения преступления и корреспондирующая ему обязанность штата, в котором находится обвиняемый, выдать его властям штата, в котором он должен предстать перед судом. Раздел 3 устанавливает порядок принятия нового штата (решение принимается конгрессом) и образования нового штата на территории существующих штатов (дополнительно требуется согласие законодательных органов заинтересованных штатов). В разделе 4 гарантируется республиканская форма правления в каждом штате и установлена обязанность федерации обеспечить защиту каждого штата от внешнего вторжения и внутренних беспорядков.
Поправки к конституции
Статья V описывает процесс изменения конституции — принятия поправок. Поправки могут быть приняты конгрессом (двумя третями присутствующих членов каждой из палат) или Национальным конвентом — специальным органом, который созывается конгрессом по требованию не менее двух третей легислатур (парламентов) штатов. До настоящего момента поправки принимались только конгрессом; Национальный конвент ни разу не созывался, в связи с чем порядок избрания его членов и регламент работы остаётся неизвестным.
После того, как поправки были приняты конгрессом либо национальным конвентом, они должны быть ратифицированы тремя четвертями штатов. Конгресс сам определяет один из двух возможных способов: ратификация легислатурами (парламентами) штатов или созываемыми в каждом штате специально для принятия этого решения конвентами. Второй способ использовался только один раз, для того, чтобы принять Двадцать первую поправку, которая отменяла ранее принятую Восемнадцатую поправку («Сухой закон»).
Для того чтобы принять поправку, которая уменьшает число сенаторов от данного штата по сравнению с другими штатами, в обязательном порядке требуется согласие заинтересованного штата.
Соотношение законодательства федерации и штатов
Статья VI закрепляет приоритет правовых актов федерации: Конституции, принимаемых во исполнение её законов и международных договоров США, перед законодательством штатов. В случае конфликта Конституции США или федеральных нормативных актов с актами штатов суды обязаны применять федеральные акты. В той же статье содержится обязанность сенаторов, членов Палаты представителей, членов легислатур штатов, государственных служащих и судей при вступлении в должность приносить клятву или делать заявление о том, что данное лицо будет «поддерживать» () Конституцию.
Эта же статья предусматривает, что все долги и обязательства, существовавшие до принятия Конституции (то есть во время действия Статей Конфедерации) сохраняют силу, и что наличие или отсутствие определённых религиозных убеждений не может быть условием для занятия какой-либо государственной должности. Последнее условие было включено в Конституцию, так как в Англии в это время действовал дискриминационный Акт о присяге, который фактически отстранял католиков от государственной службы.
Ратификация
Статья VII устанавливает, что для вступления конституции в силу достаточно, чтобы её ратифицировали специально созванные конвенты девяти штатов. Таким образом, теоретически была возможна ситуация, при которой часть штатов откажется от ратификации, и государство распадётся на две части: штаты, ратифицировавшие Конституцию, и штаты, отказавшиеся сделать это.
Первым штатом, ратифицировавшим конституцию, стал Делавэр (7 декабря 1787 г.), девятым — Нью-Гэмпшир (21 июня 1788 г.). Северная Каролина и Род-Айленд ратифицировали конституцию последними, существенно позже остальных штатов (21 ноября 1789 г. и 29 мая 1790 г. соответственно).
Судебное толкование
Право США принадлежит к англосаксонской правовой системе, поэтому большое значение для применения и толкования законов имеют судебные прецеденты. Особая роль в формировании системы прецедентов принадлежит верховному суду. В 1803 году в эпохальном для американского права деле Марбери против Мэдисона верховный суд под председательством Джона Маршалла признал положение одного из законов противоречащим Конституции. В самой Конституции такое полномочие верховного суда и судов вообще не прописано, хотя подобная концепция была известна из английского права. Александр Гамильтон ещё за пятнадцать лет до того писал:
Гораздо более логично предположить, что суды были созданы, чтобы занимать место посредника между народом и законодателями, чтобы, в числе прочего, сдерживать последних в рамках их полномочий. Толкование законов — это полномочие, присущее судам. Конституция является, и должна считаться таковой судьями, основным законом. Следовательно, именно они уполномочены разъяснять её значение, равно как и значение любого правового акта, изданного законодательным органом. Если возникает неразрешимое противоречие между ними [Конституцией и иным актом], разумеется, должен применяться тот, который имеет более высокую силу. Другими словами, Конституция должна иметь преимущество перед статутом, воля народа — перед волей его представителей.
После решения по делу Мэрбери против Мэдисона право судов на рассмотрение законов на предмет соответствия Конституции не подвергалось сомнению, хотя следующее решение о несоответствии закона Конституции было принято только через полстолетия в деле Дред Скотт против Сэндфорда. Тогда же окончательно сложилась доктрина о том, что толкование Конституции, которое даёт верховный суд в ходе рассмотрения дел, является обязательным для нижестоящих судов и других государственных органов.
История поправок к Конституции
Со времени ратификации Конституция серьёзно изменилась. Некоторые положения (нормы о рабстве или нормы о непрямых выборах) были отменены, поскольку считались неприемлемыми в новых исторических условиях. За период существования Конституции было принято 27 поправок, в том числе десять поправок, составляющие Билль о правах. Содержание статей Конституции дополнялось федеральным законодательством и решениями верховного суда.
В отличие от конституций многих других стран содержащиеся в поправке к Конституции США изменения не вносятся в основной текст, и поэтому положения Конституции, которые изменяются или отменяются поправкой, остаются в тексте, хотя и утрачивают силу.
Билль о правах
Билль о правах — это общее название первых десяти поправок к Конституции, которые гарантируют отдельные личные права граждан и соответственно ограничивают полномочия государственных органов. Поправки были предложены Джеймсом Мэдисоном на первом конгрессе США в 1789 году, в том же году одобрены конгрессом и ратифицированы штатами до конца 1791 года.
Билль о правах был принят по инициативе тех политиков и публицистов (в частности, Томаса Джефферсона, который не участвовал в Конституционном Конвенте), которые считали недостатком Конституции отсутствие перечня базовых прав личности (перечисление в преамбуле целей конституции казалось им недостаточным), которое в будущем могло стать основанием для ущемления прав. Оппоненты (например, Александр Гамильтон) возражали, что принятие подобного документа — это практика прошлых столетий, когда короли даровали подданным хартии, в которых перечислялись только некоторые права, что означало возможность покушения на права, не указанные в хартии
Первоначально Билль о правах не применялся к законодательству штатов. Первая поправка прямо касается только законодательных полномочий конгресса, но не легислатур штатов, что позволяло некоторым штатам издавать законы, устанавливающие официальную религию штата. Подобная ситуация сохранялась до 1868 года, когда была принята Четырнадцатая поправка, которая одновременно с отменой рабовладения в частности установила, что
Ни один штат не должен издавать или применять законы, которые ограничивают привилегии и льготы граждан Соединённых Штатов; равно как ни один штат не может лишить какое-либо лицо жизни, свободы или собственности без надлежащей правовой процедуры либо отказать какому-либо лицу в пределах своей юрисдикции в равной защите закона.
Даже после вступления в силу этой поправки вопрос о применимости Билля о правах на уровне штатов оставался предметом споров.
На самом деле в 1789 году было предложено не десять, а двенадцать поправок, причём поправки, вошедшие в Билль о правах, шли под номерами с третьего по двенадцатый. Поправка под номером один, устанавливавшая размеры избирательных округов, была ратифицирована только одиннадцатью штатами (в период с 1789 по 1792 годы) и так и не вступила в силу. Поправка под номером два, которая закрепляла правило о том, что закон, в котором изменяется размер зарплаты сенаторов и представителей, не может вступить в силу до новых выборов в палату представителей, была ратифицирована только в 1992 году — спустя более двухсот лет после принятия, и стала Двадцать седьмой поправкой.
История Конституции в XVIII и XIX веках
Вскоре после Билля о правах была принята Одиннадцатая поправка (предложена в 1794 году, ратифицирована в 1795 году). Поправка закрепляла правило о том, что иск против штата может быть подан только в суд этого штата, но не в суд другого штата или федеральный суд. Ранее в деле Чизхольм против Джорджии верховный суд постановил, что гражданин имеет право обращаться с подобным иском в любой суд независимо от его места нахождения. Таким образом, поправка закрепила судебный иммунитет штата, аналогичный судебному иммунитету независимых государств.
Двенадцатая поправка была предложена в 1803 году и ратифицирована в 1804 году. Поправка касалась процедуры голосования в коллегии выборщиков. По ранее существовавшей процедуре выборщики имели два голоса и голосовали за двух кандидатов, один из которых становился президентом, а второй — вице-президентом. Поэтому в 1796 году избранные президент и вице-президент принадлежали к разным партиям, а в 1800 году в результате случайности два кандидата от партии большинства — Томас Джефферсон и Аарон Бурр — набрали одинаковое количество голосов, поэтому президента избирала Палата представителей. Поправка установила, что выборщики голосуют за президента и вице-президента раздельно. В том же 1803 году верховный суд США принял решение в знаковом деле Мэрбери против Мэдисона, в ходе рассмотрения которого суд признал закон противоречащим конституции и не подлежащим применению в деле. Это полномочие Верховного суда не было закреплено в конституции, но ещё в XIX веке прочно вошло в практику.
Гражданская война в США, в ходе которой одиннадцать штатов вышли из состава Союза и создали Конфедеративные Штаты Америки, не прервала действие Конституции. При этом Южные Штаты находили обоснование для выхода из США в конституции: в Декларации о сецессии Южной Каролины, изданной 24 декабря 1860 года (Южная Каролина первой объявила об отделении) в числе причин выхода указаны нарушения северными штатами своих конституционных обязанностей, в частности нарушение требований статьи IV, которая предписывает выдачу беглых рабов.
Три следующие поправки (Тринадцатая, Четырнадцатая и Пятнадцатая) были приняты сразу после Гражданской войны и имели своей целью ликвидацию рабства и его последствий (таких, как расовая дискриминация). Тринадцатая поправка запрещала собственно рабство (этой же поправкой был изменён раздел 2 статьи IV, которым ранее запрещалось содействовать побегу рабов), Четырнадцатая поправка содержала сразу несколько важных положений, часть из которых затрагивала бывших рабов (в том числе, предоставление гражданства любому лицу, родившемуся на территории США, и запрет на лишение прав иначе как по приговору суда), а Пятнадцатая поправка запрещала ограничение активного избирательного права по признаку расы, цвета кожи или в связи с прежним положением раба. Четырнадцатая поправка фактически отменила действие нормы раздела 2 статьи I, которая при определении количества представителей от штата в палате представителей учитывала только три пятых от общего числа рабов.
История Конституции в XX веке
В 1913 году вступила в силу Шестнадцатая поправка, которая дала конгрессу право устанавливать и взимать федеральный подоходный налог, что стало важным источником доходов бюджета. До того попытки законодательно установить подоходный налог терпели неудачу (например, в 1895 году в деле Pollock v. Farmers' Loan & Trust Co. Верховный суд признал налог на дивиденды и доходы от ренты незаконным, потому что такой налог не соответствовал правилу о пропорциональном распределении прямых налогов по штатам, которое вытекало из раздела 8 Статьи 1 Конституции). В том же году была ратифицирована и Семнадцатая поправка, которая ввела прямые выборы сенаторов. До того сенаторов избирали законодательные собрания штатов. После Гражданской войны выборы сенаторов часто сопровождались скандалами, иногда разногласия между партиями мешали избранию сенатора в течение нескольких лет. За сорок лет (с 1866 по 1906 год) девять сенаторов были обвинены в даче взяток. Поправка регулярно предлагалась с 1893 года, но так же регулярно отклонялась сенатом. В 1907 году прямые выборы сенаторов были введены в Орегоне, а к моменту принятия поправки его примеру последовало ещё двадцать восемь штатов. Принятие поправки может объясняться и тем, что на тот момент в Сенате преобладали сенаторы, избранные на прямых выборах.
В 1919 году была принята Восемнадцатая поправка, которой запрещались производство, продажа, перевозка, экспорт и импорт алкогольных напитков на территории США («Сухой закон»). Антиалкогольные меры были непопулярны, контрабанда и нелегальное производство алкоголя приносили огромные доходы организованной преступности, поэтому уже в 1933 году была принята Двадцать первая поправка, отменившая Восемнадцатую поправку. При этом допускались ограничения оборота алкоголя на уровне штатов, и некоторые штаты воспользовались этим правом. Двадцать первая поправка стала единственной поправкой, которая была ратифицирована не легислатурами штатов, а специально созванными конвентами (второй из предусмотренных Статьёй V способов ратификации).
В 1920 году женщины получили активное избирательное право (Девятнадцатая поправка). В самой конституции не установлены требования для избирателей, а раздел 2 Статьи I гласит, что избиратели в каждом штате должны отвечать требованиям, предъявляемым к избирателям более многочисленной палаты законодательного собрания штата. По этой причине активное избирательное право (в том числе на общенациональных выборах) на протяжении всей истории США оставалось в ведении штатов, а федеральное регулирование осуществлялось только в виде поправок, запрещавших дискриминацию той или иной группы населения (в 1870 году Пятнадцатой поправкой была запрещена дискриминация по цвету кожи).
Двадцатая поправка была предложена в марте 1932 года. Целью поправки было сокращение срока, который проходит между выборами президента и конгресса и истечением полномочий соответственно уходящего президента и конгресса предыдущего созыва. По прежнему порядку новый президент вступал в должность через четыре месяца после выборов — в марте следующего года, и поэтому в течение всего этого периода могло существовать двоевластие. Дважды это приводило к кризисам: в 1861 году избранный президент Авраам Линкольн не имел возможности своевременно отреагировать на сецессию Южных штатов, а в 1933 году (уже во время ратификации поправки) избранный президент Франклин Делано Рузвельт не имел возможности проводить свою программу «Нового курса». Аналогичная ситуация складывалась с конгрессом, выборы в который проходили в декабре, а первое заседание нового созыва — в марте. Поправкой обе даты были перенесены на январь (3 января для конгресса, 20 января для президента).
После смерти Рузвельта, который занимал пост президента на протяжении рекордных четырёх сроков (Рузвельт умер через несколько месяцев после инаугурации на четвёртый срок), была предложена Двадцать вторая поправка (вступила в силу в 1951 году). Поправка законодательно закрепляла правило, по которому ни одно лицо не могло занимать пост президента более двух сроков. Ранее такое ограничение существовало на уровне традиции, которую по сути нарушил Рузвельт. Ещё Джордж Вашингтон отказался выдвигаться на третий срок, а Томас Джефферсон писал, что «если ограничение на длительность службы в качестве главы исполнительной власти не будет закреплено в Конституции или соблюдаться на практике, должность, формально срочная, может фактически стать пожизненной».
В 1961 году была принята Двадцать третья поправка, которая позволила округу Колумбия избирать выборщиков в коллегию выборщиков. Тем не менее, до настоящего момента округ Колумбия, как не являющаяся штатом территория, не имеет представительства в конгрессе за исключением одного делегата в палате представителей без права голоса.
Двадцать четвёртая поправка запретила ставить возможность участия в федеральных выборах в зависимость от уплаты или неуплаты налога. Необходимость принятия поправки объяснялась политикой ряда штатов, которые стремились не допустить к выборам бедное население (значительную часть которого составляли афроамериканцы и иммигранты). Примерно в тот же период законы штатов, которыми устанавливались подобные налоги, неоднократно рассматривались верховным судом США. Через два года после вступления в силу поправки верховный суд в решении по делу Харпер против Департамента выборов Виргинии признал неконституционным аналогичные запреты на участие в выборах на уровне штата, поскольку они противоречили Четырнадцатой поправке.
Поскольку Конституция США устанавливает фиксированные сроки переизбрания президента и конгресса, при досрочном прекращении полномочий президента не проводятся досрочные выборы, а его пост занимает вице-президент. Формулировка первоначальной редакции Конституции оставляла неясным вопрос о том, становится ли вице-президент новым президентом или он просто исполняет его обязанности до новых выборов. Для того, чтобы урегулировать этот вопрос на конституционном уровне (раньше вице-президент тоже становился президентом, но в силу обычая), была принята Двадцать пятая поправка (предложена в 1965 году, ратифицирована в 1967 году). Она закрепила порядок замещения должностей президента и вице-президента, в том числе при временной невозможности исполнять обязанности. Значительную роль эта поправка сыграла в карьере Джеральда Форда: сначала он был назначен вице-президентом после отставки Спиро Агню, а потом после Уотергейта и импичмента Никсона стал президентом.
Двадцать шестая поправка ввела активное избирательное право по всей стране с 18 лет. Требование о понижении возраста, с которого можно принимать участие в выборах, приобрело популярность во время войны во Вьетнаме, так как ситуация, когда воинская обязанность наступает раньше, чем приобретаются гражданские права, казалась многим несправедливой. Поправка была принята конгрессом в марте 1971 года и уже к 1 июля набрала нужное число ратификаций.
Последней на данный момент была принята Двадцать седьмая поправка, предложенная ещё в 1789 году и ратифицированная необходимым количеством штатов только в мае 1992 года. Она установила, что закон, меняющий размер жалованья сенаторов и представителей, может вступить в силу только после следующих выборов в палату представителей.
Нератифицированные поправки
С 1789 года в Конгресс поступило более десяти тысяч проектов поправок к Конституции. Большинство поправок никогда не рассматривались конгрессом, так как их движение заканчивалось на стадии рассмотрения в соответствующем комитете конгресса. Из оставшихся поправок большинство было отклонено конгрессом и не выносилось на ратификацию. Начиная с Восемнадцатой поправки каждая поправка (за исключением Девятнадцатой поправки и не вступившей в силу Поправки о детском труде) предусматривает срок, в течение которого она должна быть ратифицирована. Поправки, для которых такой срок не установлен, теоретически всё ещё могут набрать необходимое количество ратификаций и вступить в силу. Ниже представлены поправки, которые были вынесены на рассмотрение легислатур штатов, но не были ратифицированы тремя четвертями от общего количества штатов.
Оценка и критика
Конституция США (первая в истории человечества Конституция в современном понимании) стала результатом деятельности ряда выдающихся мыслителей своего времени; в Конституции нашли отражение многие передовые для своего времени взгляды философов и политических деятелей эпохи Просвещения. В частности, Конституция закрепила в качестве одной из основных целей её принятия общее благосостояние населения, установила республиканскую форму правления, основанную на принципе разделения властей и федерализме. В Билле о правах были закреплены основные личные права человека. Всё это в совокупности даёт основание говорить о том, что принятие Конституции США стало историческим событием и сыграло большую роль в развитии демократии во всём мире. По словам одного из отцов-основателей и третьего президента США Томаса Джефферсона, «Конституция США — это результат сложения мудрости всей нашей страны». Знаменитый философ Алексис де Токвиль, совершивший в 1831 году поездку по США, описал Соединённые Штаты как государство, в котором наиболее полно реализованы принципы демократического устройства:
Если сейчас во всех подробностях рассмотреть американскую конституцию, то мы не найдем в ней ничего от аристократии. В ней нет и намека на привилегии для какого-то одного класса, да и вообще на привилегии; одни и те же права для всех, все права исходят от народа и к нему же возвращаются; все учреждения подчинены единой задаче, противоборствующие тенденции отсутствуют; во всем и везде доминирует принцип демократии.
Конституция постоянно эволюционировала, как за счёт поправок, так и за счёт практики верховного суда. Ещё одной особенностью Конституции является её «неполнота»: отцы-основатели сознательно исключили из конституции многие вопросы, отнеся их к сфере регулирования штатов.
Тем не менее, отдельные положения и целые институты Конституции подвергались критике. В частности, неоднократно отмечалась недемократичность косвенных выборов. Косвенные выборы президента и сената были введены, так как многие отцы-основатели считали, что при прямых выборах, когда органы управления будут избираться непосредственно народом, большинство голосов будет принадлежать не просвещённому населению, а массам, что в конце концов повредит демократии. Косвенные выборы сената были упразднены в 1912 году (Семнадцатая поправка к Конституции США), но президент по-прежнему избирается коллегией выборщиков. На Конституционном Конвенте порядок избрания президента стал предметом бурных дебатов: было выдвинуто не менее семи различных предложений, и процедура избрания президента выборщиками стала компромиссом между сторонниками прямых выборов и сторонниками выборов палатой представителей. Критики этой системы указывают на два существенных обстоятельства. Во-первых, избранные от штата выборщики теоретически могут проголосовать за кандидата от другой партии (закон этого не запрещает). В истории США уже было четыре таких случая, правда ни разу это не повлияло на общий исход голосования. Во-вторых, при такой системе возможна ситуация, когда кандидат, выигравший президентские выборы, набирает в сумме по стране меньше голосов, чем проигравший кандидат. Такие случаи в истории США тоже имели место (последние два раза — на президентских выборах 2000-го и 2016 года).
Другим объектом критики являются пределы свободы слова. Первая поправка прямо запрещает издание законов, ограничивающих свободу слова, и по этой причине свобода слова в США простирается гораздо дальше, чем в большинстве стран. Существуют лишь считанные ограничения, такие как уголовное преследование за клевету и лжесвидетельство. Одной из наиболее известных попыток конституционно ограничить свободу слова является поправка о запрещении публичного сожжения флага США. Этот законопроект начиная с 1995 года шесть раз ставился на голосование в Конгрессе, однако ни разу не набирал требуемого количества голосов (последний раз — в 2006 году). Ранее верховный суд в решению по делу Техас против Джонсона признал, что сожжение американского флага подпадает под защиту Первой поправки.
Влияние на последующие конституции
Конституция США стала первой в мире конституцией, и для своего времени это был выдающийся документ. По этой причине авторы последующих конституций не могли не учитывать опыт составителей американской Конституции. Большое влияние Конституция США (вместе с Биллем о правах) оказала на современные ей программные документы: французскую Декларацию прав человека и гражданина 1789 года и польскую Конституцию 1791 года. Автор Декларации прав человека и гражданина маркиз де Лафайет участвовал в Войне за независимость США и был лично знаком со многими отцами-основателями (в первую очередь, с Томасом Джефферсоном). Сохранился набросок Декларации с правками Джефферсона на полях. Вторая статья Декларации в числе целей политического союза упоминает свободу и безопасность, которые в качестве целей указаны и в преамбуле Конституции США. В польской Конституции (которая стала второй конституцией в мировой истории, но просуществовала всего год), несмотря на то, что она устанавливала в качестве формы правления конституционную монархию, также находили влияние Конституции США.
Конституции латиноамериканских государств, которые получили независимость в начале XIX века, позаимствовали у Конституции США не только общие принципы, но и государственное устройство (структуру органов власти, у некоторых стран — федеративное устройство). Практически все страны Латинской Америки являются президентскими республиками.
В некоторых случаях американские юристы непосредственно участвовали в создании конституций других государств, что с неизбежностью вело к заимствованию положений американской Конституции. Конституция Японии, принятая в 1947 году, была написана правоведами и офицерами американских оккупационных войск и . В частности в Конституцию Японии был включён большой (почти одна треть от всего текста) раздел, посвящённый правам человека (здесь были заимствованы положения не только конституции США, но и американской судебной практики), а Верховный суд Японии был почти полностью списан с Верховного суда США.
Чаще всего из Конституции США заимствовались не какие-то конкретные положения, а концепции: разделение властей, федерализм, судебный контроль законодательства. В литературе существует мнение, что Конституция США создавалась в уникальных исторических условиях и подходит не для всех государств. Кроме того, отцы-основатели сознательно отнесли многие вопросы к сфере регулирования штатов и не включили их в Конституции. В качестве примера неудачного заимствования приводятся страны Латинской Америки, которые наиболее полно заимствовали конституционные нормы США, но часто страдают от политической нестабильности и конфликтов между президентами и парламентами, выливающихся в военные перевороты.
Оригинальный экземпляр Конституции
Примечания
Литература
Конституция Соединённых Штатов Америки (Пер. с англ. О. А. Жидкова) // Соединённые Штаты Америки. Конституция и законодательные акты: Перевод с английского / Сост.: В. И. Лафитский; Под ред. и со вступ. ст.: О. А. Жидкова. — М.: Прогресс, Универс, 1993. — С. 29—49. — 768 c. ISBN 5-01-002746-1 Электронная библиотека Исторического факультета МГУ им. М. В. Ломоносова.
Pamphlets written between 1787-88 by Elbridge Gerry, Noah Webster, John Jay, Melancthon Smith, Pelatiah Werster, Tench Coxe, James Wilson, John Dickinson, Alexander Contee Hanson, Edmund Randolph, Richard Henry Lee, George Mason, and David Ramsay. The essay attributed to Gerry was in fact written by Mercy Otis Warren.
The work consists of «extracts from the leading works of political theory, history, law, and constitutional argument on which the Framers and their contemporaries drew and which they themselves produced».
Ссылки
Полный текст Конституции США Национальные Архивы США
Конституция США и другие документы в Библиотеке Конгресса
Вопросы и ответы о конституции США, Национальные Архивы США
Интересные факты о конституции США
Подборка работ отцов-основателей и их предшественников к каждому разделу конституции Чикагский университет
Analysis and Interpretation of the Constitution of the United States: legal analysis and interpretation of the Constitution, based primarily on Supreme Court case law
1787 год в праве
Государственное устройство США | {
"redpajama_set_name": "RedPajamaWikipedia"
} |
:: Arab Revolutions > EGYPT
Egypt Parliament Human Rights Committee Demands President Morsi Visit
Shura Council's Human Rights Committee is pushing for a visit by an international medical team to visit President Morsi who is being held without charge by putschists in an undisclosed location.
Wednesday, July 17,2013 03:45
IkhwanWeb
In a report issued Tuesday, the Human Rights Committee of the Shura Council (Egypt's Upper House of Parliament) said, "The repressive regime of Mubarak and cronies, toppled by the people in the 2011 Revolution, has just grabbed power back again after the brutal military coup.
"The most notorious State Security apparatus, which used torture and terrorize Egyptian People in the Mubarak era, is back – with their offices and headquarters open in many areas across Egypt, and officers as well as official informants showing up all over the governorates of the country."
In its report, the Rights Committee affirmed that it has documented evidence of heinous crimes of torture in many specific cases. For example, a youth called Farid Shawki was abducted from outside the Republican Guard compound, tortured for 6 full hours – until he died, and his body was callously dumped in the street.
The report further mentions that other human rights violations and torture crimes of the ousted Mubarak regime are clearly mirrored now with protesters arrested and police forcing them to prostrate then putting shoes on their heads, kicking and insulting them in most humiliating ways.
The Rights Committee said that it also documented many cases of arbitrary arrests and detention of citizens from the streets, on false charges, in addition to framing of political figures, including members of the Shura Council, with arrest warrants issued to find and arrest many Council members belonging to the Freedom Justice Party.
The Committee also said that relatives of detainees were prevented from communicating with their loved ones, who were not allowed to have access to lawyers.
It condemned the restriction of media freedoms by closings of religious satellite TV channels and jamming of satellite TV channels that broadcast the real situation including the huge Egyptian protests and the real revolt by the Egyptian people, as well as the shuttering of the headquarters of some political parties and the prosecution of political leaderships.
"Nothing is more indicative of the return of the Mubarak regime's repressive security apparatus than what is happening with the President of the Republic, Dr. Mohamed Morsi, where he is being held without charges in an undisclosed location, his family does not know anything about him, he has had no contact with his doctor, nor with any member of his family.
The Committee demanded the formation of a medical and security commission from the doctors and lawyers syndicates to visit President Morsi in detention, in addition to sending a delegation from the United Nations to visit him, since he is the legitimate elected President. It also demanded that the President must be allowed to appear in public.
The Committee called on the Egyptian people to continue their peaceful revolt against the coup so as to prevent a full return to repression, torture, confiscation of funds, extortion and other Mubarak era State Security practices, along with all that era's corrupt practices.
tags: Morsi / President / Coup / Egyptian / Shura Council / Revolution / Mubarak / Mubarak Era / Freedom Justice Party / FJP / Media / Military Coup
Posted in EGYPT
Student Unions Statement on Bloody Fascist Coup against Democracy in Egypt
Rights Group 'Journalists For Reform': Coup Opponents Barred from Newspapers
Student Unions Conference: Will Talk to World Universities to Expose Military Coup Crimes
National Alliance in Support of Legitimacy Statement Condemns Coup; Calls Peaceful Protests
Muslim Brotherhood - Coup Commander Negotiation News Utter Lies, Baseless Rumors
Fahmi and Erian: Egypt Upper House Will Not Recognize OR Legitimize Coup
Erian: No-One Should Deceive Themselves that There is No Military Coup in Egypt
Egypt Provinces Mass in Cairo in 'ProDemocracy, AntiCoup' Friday Peaceful Protests
The current conflict is between democracy, governance, and the military coup; not the Brotherhood and the opposition
Muslim Brotherhood Leaders and Morsi Supporters under Military Coup Repression
Statement from Peaceful Protestors Survivors of Brutal Military Coup Massacre
Egypt Student Union: Morsi Still President; We Reject Military Coup
Dozens of Pro-Morsi Protesters Killed by Military Coup Live Bullets
Al-Shater Family: Will Not Stop Supporting Electoral Legitimacy Despite Coup Terror
Freedom and Justice Party: No Military Coup Dialogue
Democracy Defense Front Statement on the Legal Status of the Coup in Egypt
Millions of Egyptians Rise Up Against Coup; Republican Guard Massacre Peaceful Protesters
FJP: We Will Face Military Coup; Will Not Collaborate with Power Usurpers
Muslim Brotherhood Statement on Military Coup Against Elected President
23 Supporters of President Morsi Dead After Al-Sisi's Military Coup Statement | {
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Q: Convert Recursive to Closed Formula I got a particular sequence defined by the following recursive function:
$$T_n = T_{n-1} \times 2 - T_{n-10}$$
I need help converting it to a closed form so I can calculate very large values of n efficiently.
The sequence that I produced this recursive formula from is:
n = 1 to 10: 1,1,2,4,8,16,32,64,128,256
n = 11 to 15: 511,1021,2040,4076,8144
The formula is "quirky" for 1 to 10, but works exactly as stated for all n > 10;
A: ok. There is a general way to solve linear recursions as yours, see for starting the Wikipedia article. The basic idea is to look for solutions of the form $T_n = \lambda^n$. Inserting this ansatz into the equation we obtain
$$
\lambda^n = 2\lambda^{n-1} - \lambda^{n-10}
$$
and after dividing by $\lambda^{n-10}$
$$
\lambda^{10} - 2\lambda^9 + 1 = 0
$$
Now you have to find all $\lambda_i$, $i = 1,\ldots, 10$ which solve this equation. Wolfram|Alpha helps. Now one can show, that $\{(\lambda_i^n)_{n\ge 0}\mid 1 \le i \le 10\}$ is a basis of the space of all sequences which fulfill your recursion. Now we put your initial values into the ansatz $T_n = \sum_{i=1}^{10} a_i \lambda_i^n$. We obtain (with $\lambda_1 = 1$)
\begin{align*}
a_1 + a_2\lambda_2 + a_3\lambda_3 + \cdots + a_{10}\lambda_{10} &= 1\\\
a_1 + a_2\lambda_2^2 + a_3\lambda_3^2 + \cdots + a_{10}\lambda_{10}^2 &= 1\\\
\vdots &= \vdots\\\
a_1 + a_2 \lambda_2^{9} + a_3 \lambda_3^{9} + \cdots + a_{10}\lambda_{10}^{9} &= 128\\\
a_1 + a_2 \lambda_2^{10} + a_3 \lambda_3^{10} + \cdots + a_{10}\lambda_{10}^{10} &= 256
\end{align*}
a linear system for $a_1, \ldots, a_{10}$. You have to solve this for $a_1, \ldots, a_{10}$.
The problem is, as suggested by Wolfram|Alpha, the roots of your equation besides $\lambda_1 = 1$ are diffucult, if not ipossible, to write in closed form.
Hope this helps,
A: For what it's worth,
$$T_n = 2^n - 2^{n-10} \sum _{k = 0} ^{\lfloor \frac n 9 - 1 \rfloor} \binom {n-9k-8} {k+1} 2^{-10k} (-1)^k \frac {n-8k-7} {n-9k-8}$$
| {
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"He's ready to play now," Wannstedt said. "It's his time. He understands the offense, and we've got a good feel for his abilities and what he can do."
You could take that a number of ways - you could say it's Tino's job and it was a slip of the tongue by Wannstedt because there's an open competition. The other way you could read it (the way I read it) is it means that Tino as a backup wasn't really ready to compete. He's ready to compete for the job now. I don't think it in any way meant that it was Tino's job or even Tino's job to lose in camp.
Glad that Wannstedt plans to have it wrapped up by the Spring as whoever will be the starter will need a large amount of reps with the first team in the Fall. That opener at Utah will be staring us down before you know it.
Bennett also wrapped up his top 30 Big East players of the year and Pitt ended with eight on the list, including three in the top five and the #1 overall player (Dion Lewis). Seems like there were plenty of blockheads ready and waiting to rip apart a top 30 list that concluded nearly two months after the final college game of the year.
Sticking with the draft theme, former Center Robb Houser gets a local story and discusses playing at the next level. A few draft sites (not that I've heard of any of these) offer some ratings: Evaluators believe Houser has a decent chance to find work in the league. For instance, NFLDraftSpot.com rates him as the 12th-best prospect at center. On NFLDraftSpecialist.com, he is No. 18 and a site called WalterFootball.com lists him as 16th.
Apparently Nate Byham didn't look so hot (subscription needed).
Former Penn State quarterback Anthony Morelli is back, looking for a second chance after getting cut by the Arizona Cardinals two years ago. Morelli, who will be 25 in June, insists he's not just older.
"I've gotten bigger, faster, stronger, I'm jumping better," he said. "I think the chances are pretty good, I just need to get in front of some people."
Morelli will do that next Friday in Indy when he holds a personal workout on the same day this year's big-name quarterbacks, receivers and running backs are measured and take tests during the combine at Lucas Oil Stadium.
Since getting cut by the Cardinals two years ago, Morelli bided his time by working out on his own, coaching quarterbacks at Pittsburgh's Plum High School and helping his uncle with construction jobs.
All the while, Morelli maintained the dream of playing football. Morelli's wife finally persuaded him to move back to Indy, where he's been getting help from former NFL quarterback Jack Trudeau.
"I'm only 24 years old, and I've played against a lot of these guys in college. So when it comes to age, I feel like I haven't hit my peak yet," Morelli said. "I'm going to keep going until I exhaust all my opportunities, and if I have to go play in a lower-level league, I'm going to do that until everyone tells me to give it up."
And this one's a little off the board, but for iPhone junkies, a special Pitt app, is now available for purchase on iTunes. One is due out soon for Crackberry addicts, such as myself. | {
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I awaken as the sun pours through my east-facing windows every morning and I am drenched in light. I return to my body and stretch, and feel gratitude for the beauty I enjoy as I look out the window over my small town ringed by mountains. I awaken with quietness and openness inside, wondering what the day will bring.
Awakening spiritually is much the same -- coming into a sense of lightness, openness, spaciousness, where thoughts do not interfere with the simple beingness of life -- the I am is experienced as a felt sense rather than a belief, the entering of this moment. As the mind lets go of expectations, desires, and the need to judge oneself and others, all the billions of neurons bouncing around in our head become calm, aware, responsive to the amazing experience of right now. Our senses brighten. As the heart awakens the body becomes soft and relaxed, melting sometimes into wonder at the beauty all around us, the miracle of existing at all. We know our self to be an expansive spirit in a body, using this form to dance and move in the play of life. As the gut awakens the knot in the belly that wants control unravels itself and we are available to change our fear to curiousity, and notice that life unfolds outside of our control, and we are capable of meeting it as it is.
I am 72 now . When I was 20, 30 even 40 and 50 I could not imagine being happy at this age. Old people looked -- well, old. I thought it would be very depressing to give up feeling pretty, being part of the movement and adventure of life that absorbs us when we are young, having lots of energy and moving through the world as if I was "somebody". And it is true there are challenges in aging. Sometimes my feet are unstable. I fell flat on my face off a ledge a couple of week ago and looked for a few days as if I had been in a bar-room brawl. (Frankly, I felt mainly intense gratitude that nothing was broken or permanently damaged.) All of my family in the generations above mine have passed on and many friends as well. Nearly every week someone I care for is reported in a battle with cancer or a heart problem. There is always the knowing that at any time the axe will fall for myself or my husband. But somehow all of this is just absorbed into the weave of living, and in its tragedy there is a beauty, just as in the bright day there is a compensatory dark night with its stillness and solitude. I can be sorrowful for what is not here now or grateful that I am still here now. Which will bring me peace and happiness?
So much of a life today is driven by the demands of an intense and commercial society. Energy is pulled in many directions and the longing to have not only what we need, but everything we want, consumes the majority of westerners, while the struggle in much of the world is simply to stay alive. Humans are in constant turmoil internally, trying to change things, acquire something, gain recognition or achieve goals. And then they are surprised to find they are not happy and the world is not at peace. This is the drivenness of thought, of the part of mind that fears to relax, to let go, to explore just being. We have lost the grace of simply being alive, the appreciation of the natural beauty and wonder in the world that can only be seen when we "Stop". Millions of us cannot even enter the stillness of sleep anymore because the mind will never stop.
If you are seeking peace and beauty in your life create a way intuitively to heal yourself. Put something beautiful in every room to remind you to be present, or find a spot where you can sit in stillness or walk in beauty. Learn true meditation, a simple sitting without efforting and letting things be as they are. Play music that distracts and sooths your spirit. Do something you love each day. Let go of toxic situations in your life and then do not carry them around in your thoughts once they are gone. Create your own series of koans or inner questions that cannot be answered with mind but take you to a deeper place, a place of Truth, i..e "Isn't this only a thought -- a random neuron firing? Is it true?" "What is wholeness?" "Who am I without thought?" "Can I love without attachment?" "What do I know that no one ever taught me?" Find your own, because the portal to awakening is deeply within you. And along this path you will discover peace, joy and appreciation in the very simplicity of living itself.
I have been traveling and hanging out with family for several days now, as most folks seem to do during the thanksgiving holidays. Following a 5-day retreat with Adyashanti, my further meanderings have included fixing thanksgiving dinner for 9 in California, wandering in the Monterey cannery area with relatives, watching a grandson's soccer game in the rain, playing games with grandchildren, visiting friends in Sacramento, checking out the town where a son will be moving with his family next week, shopping the Christmas sales, flying to Utah to help my son and his family move, seeing a granddaughter dance and sing in a large musical called Showstoppers, and next will be a 12 hour trip with a u- haul through the snow of the sierras back to California and then a return trip to Ashland Oregon. I have read hundreds of books and met many teachers involved in spiritual awakening and never have I seen one involved in the ordinary chaos of western living that I am in. I live a long-entrenched role as a mom and grandmother. This may suggest to some a lack of depth in my own process -- someone advised me the other day "You don't have to do any of this". Or perhaps it suggests a complete indifference to my own further spiritual development. When I go with the flow of life there are many factors impacting the direction in which I go. They are all ages and sizes and perspectives. They can be fun, tiring, challenging, touching, interesting, boring -- they are the rhythm of the dharma of this character's dream.
I have another dharma too -- teaching or giving general guidance to people in spiritual emergence processes. Some email me and for these weeks I have had to put everyone in that dharma on hold, as there has not been the empty time and space to be available.
I enjoy this dharma, which just feels like something I am meant to do with some of my time, and I enjoy the family time as well.
I once felt divided -- as if the family events were preventing my real work from being done -- my spiritual search or meditation or time with "spiritual" people. Now I see I divided myself, categorizing life's experiences into favorable and distracting. Today it is all the same -- a flow of meeting what is put on my plate. There is freedom to do what is wanted but no serious wants to be pursued. There is just being here and being there, and being this for awhile, and that for awhile, and nothing for awhile. I am more inclined to be spirit-full than spiritual these days.
It is as okay to be interested as it is to be tired or bored, okay to be busy as it is to be quiet, okay just to be with each day. Some days I read the papers on my computer -- the NY times or LA paper or Huffington Post. I don't know why because they make me aware primarily of conflict -- at all levels in all parts of the world, and the conflict makes me feel tired, like being hit with all of your failings all at once and being too overwhelmed to do anything about them. Sometimes I have the thought of wanting to know what is going on in the world. But I do not want the emotions of knowing what is going on. I have to continually flush them out of my system, like toxins. I used to think that if I were awake I would not care, that I would have no feelings about anything (even though Krishnamurti often expressed concern for the state of the world!) I even thought (before the previous thought) that I could transcend it all and love it all the way it was. Now, even though it is fairly clear to me the world is but a dream, with billions of beings performing roles they have no control over, I still feel compassion for the lost cause of human sanity, kindness and cooperation. I can't agree that it does not matter if people are harmed or murdered whether it be for greed or ideals. It is not possible to honestly see that we are not who we think we are and in fact do not exist in the separateness we think we are, then make this justify in any way the causing of harm to ourselves and others. Even if our forms are emptiness only, and our essence is eternal, meaning there is really no death, it is still insane to heap abuse upon another being -- we are abusing ourselves, and promoting generational dysfunction for unknown future generations. We are destroying the potential expression of god in others, tearing up bodies and minds that are themselves the same divine essence we are. From the non-dual perspective this is how the world is intended to be, since it is what's happening. Something bigger that drives all of the workings of the dream is unfolding itself in some way that is mysteriously perfect. From a mother's perspective -- we really need to clean up our act! We act like insane insecure self-destructive and self-centered children in a world which has supplied us generously with the means for every need we have.
Well I am diverging from a simple tale of my family holiday to fall into the world affairs. Perhaps they are linked within this psyche in some peculiar way -- our family is the world, or because of family we want the preservation of the world -- who knows? Minds like to find meaning in everything, even though thoughts and words seldom reflect genuine truth!
So this is where this being is at the moment. Just thought I would offer a report!
I recently witnessed a disturbing scene of violence. A little girl about 5 was getting a drink from a fountain in a waiting room where I sat. She looked bright and curious. She told me she was not allowed to speak to strangers. She was examining a blood pressure machine when her mother arrived and yelled "Who said you could touch that?" She then took her into the bathroom and smacked her. She came out crying. I felt like crying too. I tried to look sympathetically at the child, and said, "She is a good girl. Be kind" as the mother angrily left the room. I did not know what to do for the child, the mother, or my own sorrow. So I am writing this essay for us, for all of us. One of the causes of suffering in this world is that humans do not recognize that at their core they are good. They do not know what they are. We do not recognize our children because we do not recognize ourselves.
This is because of the childhood experiencing of events and conditions that appear to be destructive, insensitive, critical and harsh. Such events create a confused and defensive energy field within the body, and lead to a belief in the need to protect, defend, fight and judge others. These events often begin very early, while a child is naturally curious and open, seeking to find a welcoming world, and instead experiences neglect or fear, or a critical attack or a blow from a parent. It continues on in the dynamics with other wounded children who have learned from adults to push, hit and bully one another, and on into the adult world. By a certain age each forms a position and image they hope will allow them to navigate in an unsafe world.
Because we have minds we all live in division, since one function of mind is to differentiate, divide, evaluate, select and explore the nature of opposites. One of our mental divisions is between the sense of being good or bad. This tendency to division has magnified to such an extent that even religion tells children they are born with original sin or have evil in them, making them inherently bad for no obvious reason except birth. Even apparently good people who reject abortion can find it acceptable to hit this same life at age 4 or kill it at age 18 as long as the government asks it. The belief in badness allows entire groups of people to be called enemies even though they are mothers, fathers and innocent children just like our own.
Badness as a concept is so ingrained that politicians refuse to cooperate in finding solutions for difficult problems, some corporate managers feel justified in cheating others, and some parents feel comfortable attacking their own children. For some people violence is entertainment. For others it seems like the obvious condition of the world. When our true nature moves into the play of the world it moves a long way from its home, which is peace and love.
This situation of human suffering, exponentially expanding itself, calls for our deepest alignment with compassion and universal truth, which is rarely owned because of the human tendency to hold that one group of concepts is more true than another. These concepts, based on the unconscious attachment to self-defense and self-enhancement, are framed around the concept of a "me" who ought to be able to have it's own way in life and can't because of the behavior of others, who are "bad."
The basic problem is not in the concept or belief about how things should be, it lies in the belief in this "me". The "me" would not be a problem itself if it had not witnessed such struggle and suffering and so many challenges in life. But it has formed a whole set of patterns of defense that cause it pain and difficulty. It responds often from the confusion of its conditioning, instead of the essence of its true nature. But this is the human experience. It is what is.
Until we begin to question our conditioned identifications and the concepts we grasp in order to feel safe in the world, we cannot know the true goodness of what we are. It is the seeing through of the conditioned "me" that allows the pure essence of consciousness to be felt as a living and positive force in our bodies. This consciousness links us all together and has a potential to express itself with the openness, wonder and goodness inherent in the newborn. It is what loves unconditionally and finds the world a blessing.
The awakening to our true nature can look threatening to some who have spent a lifetime creating ways to be safe in an "unsafe" world. This is why many people do not begin an inward search for truth until they are in so much pain they can think of no other alternative. But considering our true being to be goodness, love, innocence and openness offers a passage into our true heart. Examining this possibility, and especially cherishing it in our children, can free us to end the perpetuation of violence in our lives. | {
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