Consumer Centre » Frequently Asked Questions . .
Ques: What is the first thing I should do when I'm not satisfied with the services of my telecom service provider?
Ans: You should first contact the service provider whose services or products you are not happy or satisfied with.
Ques: What are the procedures involved in lodging a complaint with the NCA?
Ques: What information must be provided in my formal complaint?
Ans: You must state your name, address, phone number(s), fax, e-mail, name of Service Provider and the type of complaint. You must give a brief explanation of the circumstance that led to your complaint, stating the time and date you lodged your first complaint with the Service Provider. Copies of any relevant supporting documents such as service agreement, bills, contracts, promotional leaflets etc which would assist in our investigations should be provided.
Ques: What happens when a consumer's complaint is received by NCA?
Ans: The NCA analyses the complaint and starts investigations immediately. Where the Authority is satisfied that the service provider has breached the terms of its contract with the consumer, or contravened the provisions of the Electronic Communications Act, the Authority will file a formal complaint with the Service Provider and give feedback to the Consumer.
Ques: Will the NCA get back to the consumer on the outcome of the complaint?
Ans: Yes, where investigations are concluded in less than 48 hours, the dissatisfied consumer will be reached by phone or e-mail otherwise he/she will be communicated to in writing, on the outcome of the review.
Ques: Do I have to pay for this service?
Ans: NO! All services rendered by the Complaints Unit of the NCA are FREE OF CHARGE.
Ques: Can an aggrieved consumer sue the service provider in a law court over a breach of contract?
Ans: Yes, However, in line with the provision of the Electronic Communications Act 2008 Act 775 84 (1), a dissatisfied consumer should first seek redress with the Service Provider and if unresolved report to the NCA. A court action may be considered a last option.
1. What are Short Codes?
Short Codes are Numbers that are shorter than ITUT-T E.164 format and may be used for short message services (SMS) which are used for providing Value Added Services (VAS). They are usually between three to six digits.
2. What are Short Codes used for?
They are part of the Special Numbering Resources like Premium Rate Numbers, Toll Free Numbers, and Shared Cost Numbers which are used for carrying voice and data.
These services include premium rate communication services offered by Licensed Content Service Providers (CSPs), where the cost is often above the basic SMS tariff rate.
3. Can Short Codes be used for all Voice, SMS and Data Services?
NO, the use of Short Codes is limited to data and SMS only except otherwise permitted or specified by the Authority.
4. Why is the NCA embarking on the Short Code Harmonisation Project?
• To ensure that numbering resources are efficiently and continuously managed.
• To also create equal access, transparency, fair competition within the telecommunication industry.
• To enhance consumer protection.
• To help the Consumer and the Authority trace and track the source of all Electronic Communications.
• To help the general public in accessing the Social Service Institutions like the Police, Fire Service and Ambulance Service with ease.
5. How does the Short Code Harmonisation (SCH) work?
The Short Code Harmonisation directs that any Content Service Provider or any Telecommunication Network Service Provider who wishes to use any Short Code for any Value Added Service will have to contact the NCA only for the specific Short Code.
6. Will the Short Codes being used by State Agencies like the Police and Fire Service also be harmonised?
YES, The Authority may assign the use of Short Codes to Government and other State Agencies for the provision of Safety and Public Emergency Services such as Police, Fire, Ambulance, Disaster Responses, Rescue Services, and Mitigation against Disease Outbreaks, Anti-Terrorism, Corruption Activities, Conflict Mitigation, Peace Building, Information Gathering, and Specified Public Helpline etc.
Such assigned Short Codes will be common to all Network Operators and the corresponding services will be provided and accessed free of charge by end users (consumers) irrespective of the network you are using.
7. How can the Short Code Harmonisation Benefit the Consumer?
The Short Code Harmonisation will go a long way to reduce consumers' complaints of Unsolicited Electronic Communications the Authority receives daily from consumers whiles ensuring sanity and orderliness in the Mobile Telecommunication industry.
It will also help Consumers and the Authority to trace and track the source of all Electronic Communications or messages received to effectively safeguard or protect the rights of consumers whiles promoting transparency and fair competition in the industry.
1. What is the law requiring SIM card registration?
2. What is SIM card Registration?
The ACRONYM "SIM" means Subscriber Identity Module. SIM card registration is the process of recording and verifying mobile phone number(s) and personal information of a subscriber, by a communications service provider. Such information includes the subscriber's photograph, name, and date of birth, gender, address (postal and/or physical address), email address, if available, and details of valid identification documents of the subscriber. The process involves getting both new and existing phone subscribers to consensually provide their identification details to the network operators.
3. Why must we register our numbers?
4. What information and documentation do I need to register?
5. Will my information be kept safe?
6. Which Mobile phone numbers must be registered?
All prepaid and postpaid phone numbers and data SIM cards must be registered.
7. Can I register multiple cards?
Yes. If you own multiple cards, you can register all of them.
8. Where do I go to register?
9. How much will it cost me to register?
SIM card registration is absolutely free of charge.
10. What will happen if I have not registered by the set deadline?
11. How will I be sure that my number is registered?
Your service provider will a send text message confirming completion of registration.
12. Can someone register for me?
In case you cannot do the registration, someone else can register the SIM card in his/her name but the person will be responsible for your number.
13. Do I have to register my mobile fixed line too?
Yes, you have to register the mobile fixed line.
14. If I use a modem for my internet. Does it also need to be registered?
Yes. It has to be registered.
Is Your Electronic Equipment Safe?
The NCA has introduced a new regime to help certify and ensure the testing of all communications equipment and devices for compliance with international standards, environmental health and safety standards including electromagnetic radiation and emissions.
The new Type Approval Regime was introduced to help ascertain the authenticity of all Electronic Communications devices including mobile devices that enter the Ghanaian market.
The targeted devices include all Mobile Phones, Tablets, Radio Communication Equipment and all other devices that use Radio Frequency in their operation.
Under this regime, all certified devices will have a unique identification number which will confirm the originality or otherwise of the device or equipment.
1. What is Equipment Type Approval?
Equipment Type approval is a demonstration by a manufacturer of an electronic communications equipment that minimum regulatory requirements (Radio, EMC, Health, Safety, and Environment) relating to a communications product has been fulfilled.
2. What is the purpose of Equipment Type Approval?
i. Electronic communications equipment on the Ghanaian market is safe to use and environmentally friendly.
iii. EMF exposure from electronic communications equipment is within the required national established limits.
v. Network quality of service delivery to customers is ensured.
3. When does NCA issue certificates to manufactures?
The NCA issues a Type Approval certificate to a manufacturer or its Authorised agent based on satisfactory review of RF, EMC, Health and safety requirements that are contained in test reports and other supporting documents demonstrating compliance with the applicable standards.
4. Which Equipment Needs Type Approval?
All electronic communications equipment e.g. mobile phones, tablet, computers, etc.
5. What are the Benefits of Type Approval to the Consumer?
NCA approved equipment types would ensure that electronic communications equipment on the Ghanaian market do not pose danger to your health as a user and also do not harm the environment in which you live. NCA approved equipment types would also guarantee consumers value for money in terms of the type of equipment they buy as the type approval process also seeks to check counterfeit electronic communication equipment.
6. What are the disadvantages of counterfeit electronic communications?
Counterfeit electronic communications equipment normally does not last long and also lack warranty.
There are two ways to verify if a particular device has been type approved by NCA.
1. Visit the Authority's website or NCA's type approval portal for the updated list of type approved equipment.
8. What is Type Approval Portal?
This is an online application portal for Type Approval Certification and Dealership Licensing. It is a database of NCA type approved ICT equipment and licensed dealers, to guide consumers to make informed choices. Accessing the portal is free.
9. How do I Access the Portal?
10. What Do I do If I Buy a Product That Is Not Type Approved?
11. How does Type Approval Affect Qos?
Type approval of electronic communications equipment is expected to reduce the number substandard products on the Ghanaian market. The use of substandard products has a negative impact on quality of service.
If you are interested in buying any electronic communication equipment, please check on the Type Approval portal or NCA website before you buy. Make sure you buy from the right sources, if you don't buy from a licensed dealer, then you do at your own risk.
1. What is Special Numbering Resources?
Special Numbering Resources (SNR) is part of the National Electronic Numbering resources which may be non-geographic and non-network dependent. It comprises of Short Codes, Premium Rate Numbers, Toll Free Numbers, and Shared Cost Numbers which are used for carrying voice and data.
2. What is the current practice for the administration of the SNR?
Licenced Telecommunication Operators use these SNRs especially the short codes without seeking approval from the Authority and also assign them either in bulk or single to other VAS Providers (VASP). VAS Providers in turn sell them out to other third parties. This has resulted in unequal access to the resources and less competition with a single code having multiple assignees on different networks as well as lack of protection for the consumers.
3. Who can allocate or assign the Special Numbering Resource?
Section 65 of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775) mandates the Authority to establish and manage the National Electronic Numbering Plan.
It is therefore the function of the National Communications Authority to administer the entire numbering resources on behalf of the country. No entity being it licensed or unlicensed shall issue, allocate or assign a numbering resource either to itself or a third party.
4. What benefits are associated with NCA allocating and assigning the SNR?
To ensure that numbering resources are efficiently and continuously managed.
To enhance acceptable level of consumer protection.
To reduce the complaints of Unsolicited Electronic Communications.
To help Consumers and the Authority effectively trace and track the source of all Electronic Communications.
To help the general public in accessing the Social Service Institutions like the Police, Fire Service, and Ambulance Service with ease.
5. Who are eligible to apply for the Special Numbering Resources?
All licenced telecommunications network operators.
Governmental and non-governmental agencies with interest in Special Numbering Resource.
Entities with interest in acquiring Special Numbering Resource.
6. Can individuals or businesses not listed in the above apply for the Special Numbering Resources?
Yes, Individuals and businesses not listed above may obtain special numbering resources through an authorised Value Added Service Provider or an authorised telecommunication network operator.
7. Do you need to apply for authorisation if you already have Value Added Services license?
Yes, Authorization to own a Special Numbering Resource does not replace Value Added Services Licence. Obtaining a Value Added Services Licence does not automatically provide you the right to Special Numbering Resource.
8. Do you need to apply for authorisation if you already have license to operate a Telecommunications network?
Yes, Authorization to use a Special Numbering Resource is not the same as a licence to operate a telecommunication network.
A completed application form supplied by the Authority.
Business Proposal including Technical Proposal where applicable.
Directors and Shareholders of the company (where applicable).
Terms and conditions of the intended service.
Any recognized valid National ID of the company representative.
Must be registered with the Registrar General's Department before applying to the Authority.
10. Can institutions or individuals apply for SNR?
11. Are Special Numbering Resources allocated for emergency purposes accessible by all networks and free to access?
Yes, Special Numbering Resource allocated for emergency services such as Police, Fire Services, ambulances, help lines and those for specific information services offered by government agencies shall be national in nature and common to all operators and also to be accessed free of charge by the public.
12. Can you use the resource for any other service provision either than what it was assigned for?
No, the assigned number should be are utilized in accordance to the agreed numbering plan and for the intended purposes, in order to ensure efficiency. The approval of the SNR is dependent on the intent to request and use of the number.
13. Is Special Resource Number assigning free of charge?
No, the assignee must pay two types of fees which are the application and regulatory fees. The application fee must be paid within eight business hours after the receipt of the application and the regulatory fee should be paid within 24 hours after application has been approved.
14. Can the assignee contact a service provider when numbers are assigned to them?
Yes, the assignee may contact any licenced telecommunication network operator, licenced Value Added Service provider, for their appropriate network needs.
15. Are the assigned numbers transferable?
No, Numbering resources assigned by the Authority are not transferable to another entity without the prior written approval of the Authority.
16. What format will the allocated numbers be dialed?
Communication Network operators shall ensure that the allocated numbers are dialed in the agreed format including the approved Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) protocol formats. Other than the standardized USSD formats by the Authority, Communication Network Operators and VAS Providers may develop SNR with USSD formats. Such formats shall be designed from the assigned special numbering.
17. Which Special Numbering Resources can be used for Voice, Data and SMS?
With the exception of the Short Code,all the others being Premium Rate Numbers, Shared Cost Numbers, and Toll free numbers may be used for voice, data and SMS applications.
18. What are NCA's definitions for Premium Rate Numbers, Shared Cost Numbers, and Toll Free?
Shared Cost Numbers- these are numbers that are used in an intermediate level of telephone call billing, where the charge for calling a particular phone number is partially, but not entirely, paid for by the recipient or the caller.
Short Code – Numbers that are shorter than E.164 format and may not be regionally limited.
Premium Rate Numbers – these are numbers that are used to offer services that generally cost higher than the normal call rate and it is the caller that pays the bills. Part of the bill may be paid to the network provider and also the service provider.
Toll Free Numbers - also known as the Advanced Free Phone numbers (AFN) allows users to call an organization using a single unique toll free number without paying for the call charges.
19. When can the Authority withdraw an assigned resource?
The Act, Regulations, and/or Guidelines.
Any specific conditions relating to the assignment.
If the whole or part of the assignment is not brought into service within the stipulated time of issue.
20. What is the validity period for the SNR?
An SNR with a lease period of twelve (12) calendar months shall not lie dormant for more than three (3) months from date of issue and within the period of issue. An SNR with lease period of six (6) and nine (9) calendar months shall not lie dormant for more than two months from date of issue and within the period of issue.
21. When can the use of numbers be discontinued?
If an entity decides not to use an issued SNR anymore, the entity shall inform the Authority of the short code availability immediately.
Special Numbering Resources usage may be discontinued when there is a national and international numbering plan change that may affect the number resource.
When there is a national need for a Special Numbering Resources either assigned, in used or available to other assignees there shall be written notification of intent to withdraw the codes of which the Authority would not be required to give specifics involved.
22. What is the period of lease for the SNR?
Apart from short codes, the other SNRs may be allowed up to five year lease period.
23. What happens to an SNR that has expired?
An SNR that is expired must be re-applied. This shall attract the appropriate application and regulatory fees.
24. Can a short code be used for more than one purpose?
No. This is to avoid price ambiguity. SNR is factor for clarification of transactions by clearly defining the requirements and reducing the uncertainties that may have different practical values in a transaction.
25. When should the SLA and revenue sharing template amongst Service Providers be submitted?
The Network Operators and Value Added Providers/Aggregators shall submit copies of Service Level Agreements, revenue sharing and other related agreements to the Authority's notice ten working days before launch of service.
1. What is Mobile Number Portability?
Mobile Number Portability is a system involving all Telecommunication Networks and a central service provider in Ghana which allows a subscriber to move from one network to the other whilst retaining the entire number he had on his former network.
2. What necessitated the introduction of Mobile Number Portability in Ghana?
The main reason of introducing MNP in Ghana is to boost the competitive landscape in the telecom industry by giving consumers the choice to freely switch networks without having to change their existing number.
The process of moving the number to a different network is called "porting"; the original network is the "donor" of the number; the new network is the "recipient".
4. What are the benefits of porting?
You will retain your number when moving from one operator to the other and thus enjoy freedom and convenience.
You will receive all your calls and messages regardless of which mobile network you may have ported your number to, without having to inform your friends, relatives, colleagues or clients about your change of mobile operator.
You will save money as you do not have to purchase SIM cards for each mobile operator or maintain more than one mobile hand set.
You can choose the mobile operator who you feel offers better quality of service and customer experience.
6. What you need to consider before making a porting request?
i.Your porting request shall be declined if fraud has been reported on that number or that number is not active on the donor network.
ii. You should use up or retrieve any money in your money transfer account (for example Mobile money, ZAP) or seek a refund from your old operator after you have successfully ported your number.
iii. You should carefully read and understand the terms and conditions of all services provided by your current mobile operator.
7. How do I assess whether I should take advantage of Mobile Number Portability?
MNP is only relevant if you see a benefit in changing mobile service providers. Are you having bad service quality from your current service provider? Are the tariffs of your service provider extremely high compared to other competitors? Then you might consider porting your number to other networks that will give you value for your money. You need to consider if you are on a contract already, and what you might have to pay to your existing provider, if any.
8. Can I switch providers if I'm still on contract with my existing provider?
Yes, you can, but you will still have to pay any outstanding bill just as you would if you simply cancelled your service.
9. Can I keep my number and change providers if I'm on a pre-paid service?
Yes, you can, but your handset may be locked. Handsets sold as part of a pre-paid service are often 'network SIM-locked' to prevent customers using a SIM card with the handset other than the one issued for the pre-paid service. If you want to use the same handset you may need to arrange with your existing provider to have your handset unlocked.
10. Can I Port my Fixed number?
11. Where can I make my request to port?
You should make your request to port your number at a Retail Shop or Appointed Agent of the mobile operator you wish to join.
12. When can I make my request to port?
You can make a porting request from Monday to Sunday whenever Operators' retail shops and sales agents are receiving customers for normal business.
13. Can I make a porting request on behalf of my organization?
Porting requests made on behalf of an organization shall be accompanied by a letter of authority on letterhead of the organization signed by an authorized signatory.
when I port my number to another network?
No. You should request your old operator to refund your money.
15. What is required to port my number?
i. Visit the retail shop of the mobile operator you intend to switch to with your original identification documents (e.g. National I.D. card, Passport, NHIS ID, Driving Licence or Voters I.D. card).
ii. Fill in the Number Portability Request Form and present your documents for verification.
16. How much does it cost to port my number?
Operators in Ghana have decided not to charge for porting.
17. Can I make my porting request online?
18. Will I be issued with a new SIM card?
Yes. Your new operator will issue you with a new SIM card after signing the Number Porting Request Form.
19. Do I need to register this new SIM card?
Yes. You are required to register your new SIM card in accordance with the NCA Registration requirements.
20. How will I start porting process?
i. Visit the retail shop/customer care of the mobile operator you intend to switch to.
ii. Fill in the Mobile Number Portability Form and present your ID.
iv. Before leaving the shop you will be assisted to send a free SMS to the number portability system from your current SIM card to start the porting process.
v. You will receive SMS updates on the porting process.
21. Can I port from a prepaid to a postpaid number and vice versa?
22. How long will it take to port to a new Operator?
Porting to your new operator may take a few minutes (but not longer than 24 hours from Monday to Sunday).
23. Can I use the SIM Card of my old network and that of my new network simultaneously when I port my number?
No, you will only use the SIM and recharge Cards of the network you have moved your number to.
24. How will I know that my porting request has been successful?
You will receive an SMS notifying you to change your SIM Card.
25. Will I need to send my old SIM to my old operator after my number has been ported?
26. What happens after porting my number?
You will retain your telephone number and begin to use services from your new mobile operator.
27. How will I know that the person I am calling has ported?
When you call a number that has been ported you will first hear an audible warning tone (beep) before you hear the ring tone.
28. Can I port my number more than once?
Yes, you can make another port request to any other operator only after a period of not less than 30 calendar days.
This subsequent port request will be subject to similar requirements as a new port including filling and submitting a Number Portability Request Form.
29. Can I select the date on which my ported request should be activated?
No. Make up your mind and initiate the porting process on any date you wish.
30. Can I cancel my port requested?
No. You cannot cancel your port request once the automated porting process has started.
31. Can I make calls or SMS during the porting process?
Yes, you are entitled to the services of your current mobile operator until your porting request has been successfully completed.
32. What happens if calls to my number do not go through after a successful port?
You should immediately contact your new mobile operator.
33. What happens if I lose my SIM card after I have ported my number?
You must immediately report the loss of your SIM card to new mobile operator.
34. . What should I do if my old mobile operator contacts me directly or indirectly after I make my porting request or after I have switched to my new mobile operator?
Any attempt to 'win you back' to your old or previous mobile operator during the porting process is a contravention of the MNP Regulations and should be immediately reported to the Authority. However it is not an offence for an operator to contact a subscriber after he/she has switched to a different network.
35. Where can I make a complaint?
You should first approach your new mobile operator if you have a complaint on the porting process or any other services.
36. Where can I get more information?
You can get more information from your preferred/new mobile operator or the Authority.
An MVNO is a company that provides mobile services such as mobile voice and data services to end-users without owning its own frequency spectrum.
2.Is MVNO the same as Mobile Network Operators(MNO)?
An MNO provides voice, network and data services just as the MVNO, the only difference is that, MNO's have their own frequency spectrum licence from NCA which the MVNO do not have. Examples of MNOs are Vodafone, MTN, Tigo etc.
3.What are the benefits of MVNO to the mobile market?
4.Can I port my number?
Yes, one can switch from one network to another while maintaining the number.
Yes, MVNOs support both prepaid and postpaid.
6. Does MVNO support roaming?
A. Yes, you can make IDD calls.
8.Has this been done before?
Yes, both in Africa and outside the continent. Five African countries have implemented this; these are Senegal, Cameroun, Kenya, Madagascar and South Africa.
9.Which MNO has the best coverage?
The "best coverage" depends upon the host MNO. You can start by checking out the coverage maps for each provider before you accept their offers. A list of MVNOs can be viewed on our website, www.nca.org.gh, along with a description of their coverage and links to their coverage map.
10. Which MNO has the best prices?
The "best price" depends upon who you are, where you want to use the phone, what phone you want to use, and how many minutes you'll use the phone for voice calls, how many text messages you intend to send, how many picture messages you intend to send, how many megabytes of data you intend to use, and the data speed you want.
11. So who handles consumer complaint, MVNO or host MNO?
MVNOs are responsible for consumer complaints.
12. Will MVNO pricing be same as host MNO?
MVNOs design and place in the market their own retail offer, which may freely differ from that of the operator on whose network they are supported, and define their own business strategies.
13. What should I do when I am not satisfied with the services of my MVNO provider?
You should first contact the MVNO whose services or products you are not happy or satisfied with and file your complaint. .
14. Do I have to pay for complaint services?
NO! All services rendered by the MVNOs and Complaints Unit of the NCA are FREE OF CHARGE.
15. Can an aggrieved consumer sue the MVNO in a law court over a breach of contract?
1. Not rely solely on service providers' information and choice.
2. Read carefully terms and conditions on contracts, promos and adverts and understanding them before opting in.
5. Provide proof of purchases or receipts and documents invariably obtained and kept safely.
The NATIONAL COMMUNICATIONS AUTHORITY (NCA) is empowered under Section 3(c) of the NCA Act, Act 769 of 2008 (''The Act") to issue Licences for the operation and provision of communication services and to determine the eligibility criteria of applicants for the said licences.
1. What is Quality of Service (QoS)?
2. What is QoS monitoring?
It is the process of assessing service providers to ensure they meet required licence conditions.
3. What is the purpose of QoS monitoring?
To ensure that consumers receive the required quality of service from their providers.
It enables consumers to make informed choices.
4. What is the scope of QoS monitoring?
QoS monitoring covers mobile, fixed and broadband services. Currently, the NCA only monitors mobile network services, which includes Voice, Data and Network coverage from user's perspective in line with licence conditions. The Authority will gradually improve its capacity to monitor other services.
5. What are the QoS parameters for Mobile Network services?
It is the frequency of a consumer's inability to access the resource that carries the information needed to set up a call.
It is the ease or difficulty with which a consumer is able to get a call through their service provider's network system. The measurement of the frequency of Call Congestion is termed as Call/TCH Congestion Rate.
Call Setup Time is the length of time it takes from initiating a call to the time the call is established.
It is the frequency with which a consumer's on-going call is cut off or disconnected without their permission or knowledge. The measurement of the frequency of call drops is termed as Call Drop Rate.
It is defined as the probability that a call, after being successfully set up, has been maintained during a period of time and ended normally.
The probability to successfully access a public data server.
The probability to drop or release a data session without consumer or user's intervention.
The speed at which data is downloaded.
6. What is the legal backing for QoS monitoring?
The National Communications Authority (NCA) Act 769, Act 2008 Section 3(m) mandates the Authority to establish quality of service indicators and reporting requirements for Operators and Service Providers for the object for which it was established (regulate provision of communications service in the country).
Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775), Section 6 subsection (2) The Authority shall specify (a) quality of service indicators for classes of public telecommunications service, and (b) the means to enforce a licensee's compliance with its stated quality of service standards, including measures by which a licensee shall compensate users adversely affected by a failure to provide electronic communications service in accordance with the standards.
7. When does NCA conduct this monitoring exercise?
On daily basis; when using live traffic measurements and quarterly, when using the automated benchmarking tools in line with their licence conditions.
8.Which Services were monitored in Q1?
The NCA monitored Voice and Data services in the first quarter of 2018. In addition to this, MNOs were monitored to determine if they meet their coverage obligations.
9. Which parameters for Voice and Data were tested in Q1?
The table below shows the parameters which were tested in the first quarter of 2018.
All district capitals in the Greater Accra, Western, Eastern and Northern regions and two districts in the Ashanti Region namely Kumasi and Asokore.
11. Why wasn't the whole of the Ashanti Region covered during the monitoring exercise?
The whole of the Ashanti Region was covered during the exercise for all the parameters listed above.
The results of all these can be found on the NCA's website with the exception of the Voice Quality monitoring where the results for all but two (2) of the districts are presently unavailable. The full Voice Quality monitoring results for the Ashanti Region will be published in due course.
12. When is NCA going to monitor the other regions?
The other regions will be monitored during the months of May and June 2018.
13. How was the QoS monitoring done in Q1?
This was done by collecting measurement data on the field for the various mobile services using an automated benchmarking tool (called NEMO) with terminal equipment which simulates a typical user behaviour.
14. How is Voice Quality measured?
One of the parameters tested to ensure compliance is the Voice Quality which is measured by the Mean Opinion Score (MOS). MOS is a quality measure that has been used as a way to assess the human user's opinion of call quality, testing quality voice transmission, quality issues and measuring voice degradation and performance. MOS, Mean Opinion Score is measure for voice quality assessment from a user's perspective.
15. How is MOS assigned?
The standard for measuring MOS is an ITU accepted standard which is also stated in the Cellular Mobile Licence. MNOs are required by the Licence to meet a minimum score of 3.5.
MOS is expressed as a single number in the range from 1 to 5, where the value of 1 corresponds to the lowest quality experienced by the end-user and 5 is the highest quality experienced.
16. What is the Standard for measuring MOS?
The standard for measuring MOS is an ITU accepted standard (ITU-T P.863) which the NCA adopted.
17. Can you help me understand the overall ratings?
The overall rating is simply based on the overall score. The overall score is calculated as the average of all MOS measured for the calls made within a District Capital during the field monitoring exercise.
18. How do I access the ratings for my district?
Visit the NCA website or click on the link below to access ratings for your district.
19. The scores for my district indicated that quality of speech is good, but my experience is bad, why?
The experience of bad speech quality in a district which is scored as good could be attributed to many other reasons including the expectations of the user and possibly the standard of the device used by the user.
20. Has the NCA discussed these findings with the Mobile Network Operators (MNO)?
The results of the QoS Monitoring were shared with all the MNOs. The Authority engaged them to determine reasons for their performance in areas where they were unable to meet their KPIs and MNOs were given the opportunity to explain the reasons or why they were unable to meet the required KPIs.
21. What reasons did the Mobile Network Operators give for the results of the various findings?
Airtel and Tigo – The recently merged network informed the NCA that multiple fibre cuts were the main challenges which disrupted service and sometimes hindered them from meeting the stated KPIs.
Glo - Glo indicated that they require new sites to improve coverage especially in new developing areas and will work to address this. They also submitted that some coverage issues were due to site outage and will focus on improving site availability.
MTN – The network operator indicated that their three (3) main challenges had to do with Site Acquisition, Fibre Cuts and Permitting challenges. In a few instances, they reported neighbourhood agitation with regards to the sites under constructions.
Vodafone – They will work closely with the Authority to rectify gaps identified.
22. Will the NCA monitor the same areas again?
After a three month period, the NCA would again conduct another QoS monitoring in these same regions to determine if the situation has been resolved or improved. MNOs who would not have resolved or improved their performance would be sanctioned by the Authority.
23. What will the next phase of the monitoring entail?
Phase 2 of the QoS Plan would entail the other five (5) regions, Central, Brong-Ahafo, Volta, Upper East and Upper West, being monitored. This will cover 96 district capitals and is likely to be finished by July, 2018.
24. Can I contact the NCA to monitor my area/house for me?
No. the NCA will come to your district if it has not in Q1. Any complaints from mobile users should first be channelled to the service provider.
25. What is network coverage?
The geographical area covered by the network of a service provider.
26. Why do you measure network coverage?
To ensure that MNOs meet their coverage obligations specified in their licence conditions.
To ensure that have access to telecom services across the country via all the district capitals.
27. What is the NCA doing to address coverage issues such as black spots?
NCA has authorised Mobile Network Operators to deploy Universal Mobile Telecommunication System, UMTS, in the 2G band which is ensuring that unserved and under-served areas of the country gain the needed access to data.
28. How will NCA ensure compliance with targets set for MNOs?
Stakeholder engagement with MNOs to share findings, stating problematic areas and giving time to remedy. Subsequent to this, sanctions will be meted out to defaulters if problems persist.
29. Who do I contact for further clarification?


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Nice 35 acre parcel with the perfect blend of meadow of trees.
Gentle sloping property with many potential building sites.
Views of both Spanish Peaks, Wet Mountains and Greenhorn Peak.
Seasonal creek on the bottom.


Northern MEHA is planning a one day training on Wednesday October 14, 2015.
Please plan to join us at BJ's Restaurant, 990 North Center Avenue, Gaylord from 9:00am - 3:30pm.
An agenda and registration information will be available soon. Please contact Dale Ladouceur if you have any questions.
A printable flyer is available for anyone that may not be a MEHA member. Please share with your co-workers.


For the best in Burlington NC, the auto repair specialists at Cottman Transmission and Total Auto Care are here to exceed your expectations. We are your premiere choice locally for diagnosis, repairs, and vehicle maintenance. We have 30+ years of automotive repair experience and have been a part of the Cottman family for the past 12 years.
From oil change to overhaul, we do it all! Our team of experienced technicians is here to properly diagnose and perform the necessary repairs on your car, SUV, or truck. We are equipped to handle a wide range of vehicles, including foreign and domestic models. We are well known for our transmission services but cover a comprehensive list of key car services that keep your vehicle running for years to come. We are here to provide expert services and maintain the Cottman reputation.
Come see how we make in difference in Burlington NC. Auto repair done by trained specialists with quality parts at a great value is the winning combination at Cottman of Burlington. We have a standing 10% discount for all vets and government employees, but we often advertise other discounts to the community. Ask a sales representative about our in-house financing.


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text:
Comércio e Industria - Novidades
COMÉRCIO & INDUSTRIA - INEOS AUTOMOTIVE´S
Sábado, 21 Setembro 2019 21:24 | Actualizado em Quinta, 16 Janeiro 2020 09:27
INEOS AUTOMOTIVE'S UNCOMPROMISING 4X4 TO BE BUILT IN WALES AND NAMED 'GRENADIER'
INEOS Automotive
Grenadier name chosen by the company's fans and followers.
Wales to be the home of the INEOS Grenadier, to be assembled in a new manufacturing facility in Bridgend.
A significant commitment to UK manufacturing, creating up to 500 jobs as part of INEOS's £600 million investment to bring the Grenadier to market in 2021.
INEOS Automotive has announced that its utilitarian 4x4 will be named 'Grenadier' after the pub in which it was conceived, with over 6,000 international fans and followers responding to an online poll to choose the vehicle's name.
INEOS also confirmed that the Grenadier will be built in a bespoke new manufacturing facility on a greenfield site in Bridgend, South Wales. This will create 200 jobs initially, and up to 500 in the long term. Site development is now under way to support planned start of production in 2021.
INEOS Group Chairman Sir Jim Ratcliffe said: "We have looked long and hard at possible manufacturing locations for Grenadier across the world with lots of good options to choose from. The decision to build in the UK is a significant expression of confidence in British manufacturing, which has always been at the heart of what INEOS stands for."
Welsh Government Economy and Transport Minister Ken Skates said: "Today's announcement is great news for Wales and I'm delighted INEOS Automotive will be setting up home in Bridgend which has a long history of skilled manufacturing expertise. The Welsh Government has worked closely with the company to make this happen and I look forward to seeing the development of the new site progress ahead of the planned start of production in 2021."
INEOS Automotive has confirmed that in parallel, it will be investing in a sub-assembly plant in Estarreja, Portugal. The facility will produce the Grenadier's body and chassis, working in conjunction with INEOS's European supply chain partners.
Dirk Heilmann, Chief Executive Officer of INEOS Automotive, commented: "Confirming production in the UK, as well as our investment in Portugal, is a major milestone for the project. We are progressing well with the design and engineering work, as well as our marketing and distribution plans. In the months ahead, we look forward to sharing more information about the Grenadier, and engaging with local suppliers, the community and region, in advance of the start of production in 2021."

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
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Valeria Golino
The second child of an Italian germanist and a Greek painter. Golino obtained her first starring role in 1985's Little Fires and won the Best Actress ...
Shakira's debut album, Magia, was recorded with Sony Music in 1991, when Shakira was only thirteen years old. Though it fared well on Colombian radio ...
Sasha Azevedo
Originally from San Diego California, this southern beauty grew up in Charleston SC, where Sasha Azevedo enrolled in modeling school at a tender age, graduated, ...
In following years, Shadows formed a number of bands with Avenged Sevenfold's rhythm guitarist Zacky Vengeance. Shadows was previously a member of a punk group ...
1995 was a notable year for Hutton, since Lauren Hutton was cast in the ensemble of the obscure CBS soap-opera Central Park West, playing the ...
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Famous biography wesite list all famous biographies of famous people around the world. You can find thousands of famous people biography here and learn about their life and know their information such as birthdate, birthplace, birthname ... We are continuing to add more famous biographies over time.
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Claudius Ptolemy
Biography of Claudius Ptolemy: About 85 AD - Born in Egypt AD 127-41- made his astronomical observations from Egypt - On March 26, 127, Ptolemy made his first observation and his last on February 141. Claudius Ptolemy emerged as an influential astronomer and geographer. The Greek scholar's most famous contribution was Almagest where Claudius Ptolemy ...
Biography of Corinna: Scholars dispute her claim to have been a teacher of Pindar. Two works are extant: 1) Minouaie, which is about the daughters of King Minyas of Orchomenos: Leukippe, Arsippe, and Alkathoe. 2) Koronaie (The Shuttle Maidens), which concerns two daughters of Orion, named Menippe and Metioche. ...
Biography of Galen: 129AD – Galen was born this year in the Greek city of Pergamum (modern-day Bergama, Turkey). 148 - After his father's death this year, Galen left to study in Smyrna, Corinth and Alexandria over a period of twelve years. 157 - Galen worked as a physician in a gladiator school for three ...
Biography of George II: 1890 - Born on July 20th in Tatoi, near Athens, Greece. The king of Greece whose second reign was marked by the ascendancy of the military dictator Ioannis Metaxas.1922-1924 - George II was appointed as the King of Greece. - The eldest son of King Constantine I, George was ...
Biography of Epictetus: 55 AD - Born a slave in Hierapolis, Asia Minor. 89 AD - 95 AD - Epictetus was exiled along with other philosophers by the emperor Domitian sometime. 90 AD - Epictetus was expelled with the other philosophers by Domitian, who was irritated by the support and encouragement which the ...
Robert W Kagan
Biography of Robert W Kagan: 1958 - Robert W Kagan was born in Athens, Greece. Robert Kagan is senior associate at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, transatlantic fellow at the German Marshall Fund, and a columnist for The Washington Post. - Robert W Kagan married to Victoria Nuland, currently the U.S. ambassador to ...
Biography of Demosthenes: 384 BCE – A prominent Greek diplomat and orator was born in Athens this year, during the last year of the 98th Olympiad or the first year of the 99th Olympiad. His father also named Demosthenes who belonged to the local tribe, Pandionis, and lived in the deme of Paeania ...
Biography of Euripides: 480 BC - Born in Salamís on the 23rd of September.408 BC - Euripides left Athens at the invitation of king Archelaus I of Macedon and stayed with him in Macedonia. - Euripides' final competition in Athens.441 BC - Euripides won first prize, and over the course of his ...
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Watch this Quicktime movie from the folks at MoveOn.org. Matt Drudge wrote about it and the RNC has a link to it.
It's disgusting. And they say Republican animosity towards Clinton was worse. I don't think so.
I pray Move On airs something like this. It will finish them.
Watch your links to Moveon. They did a mean redirect on me. LOL.


text:
Mrs. Kenlinn Trivette Obituary
Mrs. Kenlinn Trivette, age 78, of Mena, Arkansas passed away Friday, June 29, 2018 in Hot Springs National Park.
She was born July 27, 1939 to the late Kenneth Barthlomew and the late Evelyn Boles Barthlomew. Kenlinn was happily married to her husband of 60 years, George Trivette, Sr. She worked for Lake Erie Door and was a fine homemaker. She enjoyed computer games, was a power shopper! But her real love was her family, and her best times were spent with them. Kenlinn was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and a friend to all. She will be dearly missed.
She is survived by husband: George Trivette, Sr. of Mena, Arkansas
Son: George Trivette, Jr. of Mena, Arkansas
Daughters: Terrie Atkins of Mena, Arkansas and Theresa Watson and husband Jake of Mena, Arkansas
9 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and a host of friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Kenneth and Evelyn Barthlomew, a son, Jerry Trivette, brothers Kerment Barthlomew and Urman Barthlomew and two sisters, Wanda Pullen and Benita Yesh.
Funeral services will be Thursday, July 5, 2018 at 10:00 a.m. at the Beasley Wood Chapel. Visitation will be general. Arrangements are under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home.
6-30-18 2:16 p.m. kawx.org
Phillip Lawrence Sharp Obituary
Phillip Lawrence Sharp age 56 of Mena, Arkansas passed away Wednesday, June 27, 2018 in Hot Springs, Arkansas.
Mr. Sharp was born in Mena, Arkansas on October 6, 1961 to the late Joseph Sharp and Sue Bates Sharp. He was married to Brenda Dye Sharp for twenty-three years. Phillip worked as a carpenter by profession. He enjoyed working with leather crafts, fishing with family and friends and tinkering on cars. He was a loving husband, father, son, step-father, grandfather, brother, and friend to all and will be dearly missed.
He is survived by wife: Brenda Sharp of Mena, Arkansas
Daughter: Rebecca Herdener and husband Patrick of Tulsa, Oklahoma
Step-daughters: Carrol Breitbarth and husband Jason of Russellville, Arkansas and Amanda Bauch and husband Greg of Nashville, Tennessee
Eight grandchildren
Mother: Melba Sue Sharp of Mena, Arkansas
Brothers: Robert Vernon Sharp of Oxnard, California and James Leroy Sharp of Oxnard, California.
He was preceded in death by his father Joseph Sharp.
Mr. Sharp will be sent for cremation under the direction of Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena.
Dovie Latisha "Tish" Robertson Norman Obituary
Dovie Latisha "Tish" Robertson Norman age 56, of Sasakwa, Oklahoma formally of Mena, Arkansas passed away Sunday, June 24, 2018 in Holdenville.
Tish was born on July 18, 1961 in Hot Springs, Arkansas to the late J.D. Robertson and Betty Berlene Priddy Robertson. She was married to David Norman and had a wonderful and fulfilled life together. Tish enjoyed her family and was a friend to everyone she met. She loved her dogs and just loved animals in general. Tish was, by David's standards, the most wonderful wife in the world. Tish was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend to all who knew her. She will be dearly missed.
She is survived by husband: David Norman of Sasakwa, Oklahoma
Son: Jared Norman of Sasakwa, Oklahoma
Daughter: Andrea Norman of Eufaula, Oklahoma
Grandchildren: Hunter Norman and Tyler Norman
Mother: Betty Robertson of Mena, Arkansas
Brothers: Ron Robertson and wife Kellie of Texas and John Robertson of Mena, Arkansas
Sister: Victoria Moody and husband James of Mena, Arkansas
Nephews: Nick Robertson and wife Arian of Mena, Arkansas, Hunter Robertson of Monroe, Louisiana, and Logan Robertson of Mena, Arkansas
Niece: Cherish McAllister and husband Steven of Mena, Arkansas.
She was preceded in death by her father, J.D. Robertson.
Funeral service will be Thursday, June 28, 2018, at 10:00 a.m. at Beasley-Wood Chapel with Brother Victor Rowell officiating. Interment will follow in the Oden Cemetery in Oden, Arkansas.
Visitation will be Wednesday, June 27, 2018 from 5-7p.m.
Pallbearers will be John Robertson, Donnie Dollarhyde, Nick Robertson, Ronnie Robertson, Larry Gross and Mondo Berruquin.
Mary Jane Willis Obituary
Mary Jane Willis age 40, of Hatfield, Arkansas passed away Monday, June 25, 2018 in Mena.
Mary was born on July 29, 1977 in Kellogg, Idaho to the late Glen Dale May and Gertrude "Trudy" Helms May. She was married to George Willis and enjoyed being a thoughtful and loving homemaker to her family. Mary Jane enjoyed camping and fishing with her family and friends. She liked to go to the Casino and loved her dog, Sal. Most of all she loved her family and spending time with them. Mary Jane was a loving and kind wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt and friend to all who knew her. She will be dearly missed.
She is survived by husband: George Willis of Hatfield, Arkansas
Sons: Steven Dale Willis of Hatfield, Arkansas and Tyler Bruce Willis of Hatfield, Arkansas
Daughters: Hannah May Willis of Hatfield, Arkansas and Elizabeth Jane Willis of Hatfield, Arkansas
Mother: Gertrude "Trudy" Helms May of Mena, Arkansas
Brother: Brian May of Mena, Arkansas
Sisters: Loretta Jewell of Vandervoort, Arkansas, Sherry Sullivan of Mena, Arkansas, and Cynthia Carl of Hot Springs, Arkansas
Numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
She was preceded in death by her father, Glen Dale May.
Funeral service will be Friday, June 29, 2018, at 2:00 p.m. at Hatfield First Baptist Church with Brother Todd Webb officiating. Interment will follow in the Owens Chapel cemetery.
Visitation will be General.
Pallbearers will be James Busby, Joe Bill Ward, Tyrell Pruitt, and Mike Floyd.
Helen Marie Voyles Priddy Obituary
Helen Marie Voyles Priddy, age 74, of Mena, passed away Friday, June 22, 2018 in Fort Smith, Arkansas.
She was born February 17, 1944 in Mena, Arkansas to the late David Thweatt and the late Vivian Hughes Thweatt. Helen loved going for rides and taking in the scenery with her husband, Junior Priddy. A bucket list item, that unfortunately was never achieved, was to own a 1956 pink and white Pontiac in which to take those rides. She enjoyed fishing, but most of all enjoyed and loved her family. Helen was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, step-mother and friend who will be dearly missed.
Survivors are husband: Junior Priddy of Mena, Arkansas
Sons: Jim Sherrouse and wife Peggy of Cove, Arkansas, Gary Sherrouse and wife Kathy of Fort Smith, Arkansas, and Billy Sherrouse of Cove, Arkansas
Daughter: Charlotte Brumbelow and husband Tommy of Mena, Arkansas
Step-sons: Jerry Priddy and wife Becky of Mena, Arkansas, Mitchell Priddy of Mena, Arkansas, and Patrick Priddy of Hot Springs, Arkansas
14 Grandchildren, 13 Great Grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews, and a host of friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, David and Vivian Thweatt, and her brother, David Alton Thweatt.
Funeral services will be Tuesday, June 26, 2018 at 10:00 a.m. at the First Assembly of God Church with Brother Ronnie Tilley and Brother Donnie Jewell officiating. Interment will follow in the Gann Cemetery under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home.
Pallbearers are Tim Hill, Rod Green, Jamie Ralls, Mitchell Priddy, Kaleb Brumbelow and Kyle Brumbelow. Honorary pallbearers are Clayton Brumbelow, Coy Brumbelow, Jerry Priddy, Aaron Burt and Cameron Reynolds.
Martin Stinson Obituary
Martin Stinson age 66, of Mena, Arkansas passed away Saturday, June 16, 2018 in Mena, Arkansas.
He was born in Las Vegas, New Mexico on August 2, 1952 to Hensley Stinson and Opal Lawrence. Martin was a truck driver in the transportation business. Martin was married to Barbara Wilcox. He proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corp. He enjoyed hunting and fishing with family and friends. He was a loving son, husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend to all who knew him.
He was survived by spouse: Barbara Wilcox
Son: Dustin Stinson
Daughter: Mamie Stinson
Mother: Opal Smith
Brother: Kevin Stinson
Sisters: Joyce and husband Archie McDaniel, Evelyn Hackney and husband Phillip, and Audrey Stinson
Nine grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his father Hensley Stinson.
Mr. Stinson will be sent for cremation under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena.
Claudie Ray "Buddy" Evins Obituary
Claudie Ray "Buddy" Evins
Mr Evins was born May 28, 1940 to parents Ray and Mae Evins. Mr. Evins grew up in Mena, Arkansas where he attended school until he joined the United States Navy in 1960. Mr. Evins served for six years on board the USS Lexington air craft carrier during the Vietnam War. He enjoyed playing his guitar while attending the Mena Church of God and the Church of God in Texas. He loved playing Bluegrass Gospel on the Mena local radio station and at local churches. Above all he loved God and his family dearly. Mr. Evins worked as a truck driver for thirty years until he retired in 1986 due to health problems.
Mr. Evins is survived by his wife: Ellen Evins
Daughters Lesley and husband Darren Williams, Sheila and husband Richard Lake, Kathy and husband Kenny, and Debbie Mills
Brother: Gene Evins and wife Liz
Nieces: Ginger Dilbeck, Timbra Williams, and Schana Wesley
Numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Mr. Evins is preceded in death by parents Ray and Mae Evins, sisters Ruby Dagenhart and Wanda Lance, son Raymond Evins, and daughter Rebecca Sue Mills.
Pallbearers are Benjamin Williams and Nathan Williams.
Graveside service will be Tuesday, June 26, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. at Gann Cemetery in Mena, Arkansas with Brother Dale Williams officiating. Arrangements were made under the Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena.
Annie Lee Redwine Konkler Obituary
Mrs. Annie Lee Redwine Konkler, age 96, of Toccoa, Georgia passed away Monday, June 18, 2018 at Pruitt Health Toccoa.
Born October 12, 1921 in Battiest, Oklahoma, she was the daughter of the late Willis David and Eula Ida Duncan Redwine. Mrs. Konkler was a homemaker and a member of Bethesda Fellowship of Cornelia.
Family members include her daughter, Jessie Anne Dyer of Toccoa, GA; grandchildren, Jeanna Banks of Sandersville, GA, Anna Rose of Toccoa, GA, Johanna Flores of Clarkesville, GA, Christian Strempke of Monroe, NC, David Flores of Cleveland, GA, Jonathan Flores of Cumberland, MD, Ben Dyer of Black Mountain, NC, Seth Flores of Toccoa, GA, and Joyce Faye Laub of Atkins, AK; twenty-four great-grandchildren, eleven great-great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband, James Philip Konkler, Sr., a son James Philip Konkler, Jr., and her brothers, David Samuel Redwine and Manuel Lee Redwine.
Mrs. Konkler will be buried with her husband at Pleasant Grove Cemetery in Cove, Arkansas Friday, June 22, 2018 at 10:00 a.m. under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to World Vision P.O. Box 9716 Federal Way, WA 98063.
Carol Ann Roberts Obituary
Carol Ann Roberts
April 16, 1950 - June 14, 2018
Carol Ann Roberts, age 68 of Mena, Arkansas, died, Thursday, June 14, 2018 at Rich Mountain Nursing and Rehab. She was born on Sunday, April 16, 1950 to Kenneth Leon and Frances Florene Crowe Smith in Paris, Arkansas.
Carol attended the Assembly of God Church in Mena. She was a homemaker for most of her life and took great joy from raising her children. She loved the outdoors and animals, but most of all, her family. Carol was a loving companion, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt and friend and will be missed by all who knew her.
She was preceded in death by her father.
Carol is survived by her loving companion, Steve Ferguson of Mena; her mother, Florene Smith of Midlothian, Texas; two sons, James Pomraning, and Jonathan Pomraning both of Mena; one brother, Ken Smith of Nacogdoches; one sister, Darlene Teeter of Midlothian, Texas; two grandchildren; several nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.
A memorial service will be Thursday, June 21, 2018 at 1:00 P.M. at the Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena with Brother Ron Tilley and Earl Teeter officiating. Cremation services are entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas.
Margie Ruth Alston Obituary
Margie Ruth Alston age 82, of Mena, Arkansas, passed away Friday, June 15, 2018 in Little Rock, Arkansas.
She was born in Hodgens, Oklahoma on August 29, 1935, to the late Clarence David Dowell and the late Cleo Elizabeth Keith Dowell. Margie was married to Fred Alston for forty-one years, sharing a long life of family and love until his passing in July 2016. She enjoyed crocheting, taking walks outdoors with her dog, "Baby" and loving on her cat, "Gracie". She was an avid sports fan of the NBA Basketball and the Razorbacks. Margie was an active member of the Concord Baptist Church. She enjoyed gardening and cooking for her family. Above all she loved God, family and friends. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her. Margie was a loving and thoughtful mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt and friend to all.
She is survived by sons: Danny Hurst and wife Kim of Mena, Arkansas, and Claude Lucas "Luke" Alston and wife Deedee of Mena, Arkansas
Daughters Carolyn Tanner and husband Al of Fayetteville, Arkansas, and Debbie Dilbeck and husband Larry of Knob Noster, Missouri
Grandchildren: Joe Willie Kirk, Jeff Hurst, Wes Hurst, Chandra Henderson, Jim Ed Hurst, Amber Judd, Adam Hurst, Cody Dilbeck, Mark Hurst, Tyler Hurst, Austin Hurst, Alex Hurst, Ryan Ozanich and Drey Ozanich
Brother: John Dowell of Durant, Oklahoma
Sisters: Ople Walker of Joplin, Missouri, and Nila Davis of Hodgens, Oklahoma
Twenty-four great-grandchildren
Numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband Fred Alston, parents Clarence and Cleo Dowell, sister Helen Bowman, father-in-law and mother-in-law Gilbert and Jewell Alston, and sister-in-law Janet Corcoran and a son Eddie Lee Hurst.
Funeral service will be Monday, June 18, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. at Concord Baptist Church with Brother Bernard Rusert and Brother Jerry Taylor officiating. Interment will follow at Concord Cemetery in Ink, Arkansas under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena.
Pallbearers will be Eddie Price, Seth Guinn, Rick Cole, James Gentry, Nick Pate and Mark Cannon.
Honorary pallbearers will be Her Grandsons.
Bertrand Odis Sanders Obituary
Bertrand Odis Sanders
Bertrand Odis Sanders, age 87, of Mena, Arkansas, died Saturday, June 9, 2018 at home. He was born on Saturday, March 28, 1931 to Odis Lee and Haddie Louise Bismark Sanders in Wickes, Arkansas.
Bertrand served in the United States Navy. He worked at US Motors for over 25 years before retiring. After retiring from Motors he was a door greeter for many years at Wal-Mart. He loved his wife, Ola Jean and tinkering in his workshop. Bertrand was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and a great friend who will be missed by all who knew him.
He is preceded in death by his parents; and one brother, Jerome Sanders.
Bertrand is survived by his wife, Ola Jean Sanders of Mena; one son, Byron Sanders of Fresno, California; one brother, Leeroy Sanders of Hatton; one sister, Leola Rye of Cove; several nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.
Memorial services will be held at a later date. Cremation services entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home of Mena, Arkansas.
Marion William Manning Obituary
Mr. Marion William Manning, age 83, of Mena, Arkansas passed away Saturday, April 21, 2018 in Mena, Arkansas.
He was born July 14, 1935 in Black Springs, Arkansas to the late Henry Arthur Manning and Jessie Lorene Hughes. Bill, always Mickey to his wife, graduated in May, 1954 from Hico High School in Ruston, Louisiana. Bill was united in marriage to Roberta in California on January 18, 1958. We lived and traveled all over Europe – what fun and an education for all of us. He retired after 20 years in San Antonio, Texas. He graduated from Lady of the Lake University and earned his CPA. Bill loved to fish, hunt and play golf. He was an avid sports NBA fan. The 10 years before retiring, he became President of a corporation owned by a Japanese family who owned multiple golf courses and country clubs in San Antonio. They spoke no English and Bill's southern tongue couldn't quite handle Japanese, but it was fun and he loved them all and the job. Then it was time to retire to the green mountains of Arkansas and his "white cows". Bill enjoyed coaching little league baseball, playing basketball, hunting, fishing and golfing. He was a member of the U. S. Air Force and he and his family traveled all over Europe, stationed in Spain and later in the mountains of Germany. He was always a Christian, a gentleman and a wonderful man, husband, father, grandpa (Pawkey) and always had time for us. We will miss him until we meet again in God's Heaven.
Survivors are wife: Roberta Ann Manning
Daughter: Michelle Rae Brown
Son: Gary Lee Manning and wife Stephanie
Sisters: Dollie Stratton,Doris Osbo n and husband Ray, Margie Cooper, and Rosa Lee Gilligan
Brothers: Joe Henry Manning and wife Shirley, and Frank Manning and wife Jean
Grandson: Timothy Coffman
Granddaughters: Casey Liane Gonzalez, Kara Nichole Garrett, Devyn Jordan Helms and Rebekah Suzanne Brown
Great Grandsons: Jason and Christian Gonzalez
Nephews: Edward Napper, Jimmy Manning, Ricky and Bill Stephenson, Lane and John Osbon, Tom Ford and Timothy Cooper and Kip Gilligan
Nieces: Deannie Conner, Cheryl Osbon, Barbara Sherrill, Mandy Napper
Special daughter: Annabelle Eckert of Frankfurt, Germany.
He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Calvin Manning, sister Hazel Irene Napper and infant son Michael Alan Manning.
Bill was sent for cremation under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home.
A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, June 16, 2018 at Sulphur Springs Cemetery in Sulphur Springs, Arkansas with Rev. Kenny Fant officiating.
Pat Peek Obituary
Pattricia Gail "Pat" Peek
6-2-42 ~ 6-8-18
Mrs. Patricia Gail "Pat" Peek of Mena, Arkansas passed away Friday, June 8, 2018 in Mena surrounded by family.
Pat was born on June 2, 1942 in DeQueen, Arkansas to the late Roscoe Cleveland Chambers and the late Glenda Imogene Gilbert Nichols and was happily married to Mike Peek for 58 years until his recent death in May of 2018. She owned and operated the Plum Tree Dress Shop in Mena for 14 years and enjoyed reading and working in her flower beds when she was able. She was also an avid Razorback fan. Pat truly enjoyed spending time with her family and friends and was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and sister and will be dearly missed by all including her little dog Precious.
She is survived by sons: Michael Scott Peek and wife Lisa of Danville, Arkansas, and Gregory Trent Peek and wife Paula of Mena, Arkansas
Daughter: Shannon Charise Mendoza and husband Avel of Mena, Arkansas
Grandchildren: Kayla Morris, Chase Peek and Tori Peek of Danville, Arkansas Corie Bush and Taylor Peek of Cove, Arkansas, Tate Mendoza of Mena, Arkansas, and Reed Mendoza of Lincoln, Arkansas
Great-grandchildren: Preslea and Landry Morris, Emmitt and Fletcher Peek, Avenlei and Malloree Bush, Jaxon Mullen, Blair and Rhodes Mendoza
Sister-in-law: Betty Lukens
Host of other family and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Glen Chambers, and Brother-in-law Charles Lukens.
Funeral Services will be Tuesday, June 12, 2018 at 10:00 a.m. with Brother Daniel Morris officiating at Beasley Wood Funeral Home. Interment will follow in Pinecrest Memorial Park under the direction of Beasley Wood Funeral Home. Family and friends visitation will be Monday, June 11, 2018 from 6:00-8:00 p.m.
Pallbearers will be Chase Peek, Tate Mendoza, Reed Mendoza, Matt Bush, Quentin Meredith and Danny Hurst.
6-9-18 9:12 p.m. kawx.org
Norma Lee Mitchell Drager Obituary
Norma Lee Mitchell Drager 75 passed away Sunday, June 3, 2018.
Funeral service will be Saturday, June 8, 2018, 1:00 p.m. at Board Camp Baptist Church in Board Camp, Arkansas. Interment will follow at Liberty Cemetery in Board Camp, Arkansas under the direction of the Beasley Wood Funeral Home of Mena. Family and friends visitation will be Friday, June 8, 2018 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Beasley Wood.
George Aaron Heath Obituary
George Aaron Heath
December 17, 1944 - June 5, 2018
George Aaron Heath, age 73, of Mena, died Tuesday, June 5, 2018 at the Rich Mountain Nursing and Rehab in Mena. He was born on Sunday, December 17, 1944 to Robert Steve and Laura Belle Lewis Heath in Hartford, Arkansas.
Aaron as he was known to all, loved people and helping them in many different ways. He was charitable with his time and talents. Aaron served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War and was proud to have served his country. Aaron was a truck driver most of his life and loved to tinker on his old cars. He loved his family and spending time with them. Aaron was of the Baptist faith. Aaron was a loving father, brother, uncle and a great friend who will be missed by all who knew him.
He is preceded in death by his parents; six brothers, Bill Heath, Jesse Heath, Hoppy Heath, B.J. Heath, Dink Heath and Robert Dale Heath and three sisters, Ellen Johnson, Virgie Heath and Helen V. Heath.
Aaron is survived by his children, Aaron Heath of Seminole, Texas, James Heath and wife, Kyrsten of Big Spring, Texas and Susan Deschenes and husband, Brian of El Paso, Texas; his brothers, Dean Heath of Waldron and Delton "Slugger" Heath of Mena; two grandchildren, Sean and Joshua Deschenes; several nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, June 9, 2018 at 10 AM at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel in Mena with Brother Jack Smith officiating. Interment will follow in the Board Camp Cemetery. Visitation will be held Friday, June 8, 2018 from 6-8 PM at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel in Mena.
Mrs. Olivia Marie Martin Moreland Obituary
Mrs. Olivia Marie Martin Moreland,88 of Conway, passed away Saturday, June 2, 2018 at her home.
Olivia was born in Mena, Arkansas on August 14, 1929 to the late John Wesley Martin and Olivia Boberg Martin. She was married to the late John Clifton Bain for many years. Mrs. Moreland was an LPN during her working career. Marie loved to laugh and spend time with her grandchildren. Mrs. Morleand also enjoyed country western dancing, and continued dancing into her 80's. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her. She was a loving mother, grandmother, sister, and friend to all.
She is survived by sons: John Martin Bain and David Wesley Bain
Daughters: Marsha Ellen Cierro and Lisa Marie Carbon
Grandchildren: Clifton Stobauh, Sarah White, Amy Moss, Vivian Faye Tyra, Jayce Elrod, Olivia Jenkins, Tanner Jenkins, John Bain, Lucas Bain, Josh Bain, Knate Bain, Maggie Bain
Great-Grandchildren: Matthew Stobaugh, Logan Tyra, Mallory Moss, Noah Moss, Eliza White, Kayden Ceeppel, Hialeah Jenkins, Braiden Lunsford, and Jared Bain
And a host of relatives and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, John Wesley and Olivia Martin, her husband, John Clifton Bain, brothers John Wesley Martin, Jr., Dalton W. Martin(Potts), and Norman Martin, sisters Julia Ellen (Sudie) Loyd and Doreen Morgan, and a granddaughter Emma Elrod.
Funeral services will be Thursday, June 7, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. at the Beasley-Wood Chapel with Brother Larry Pilliow officiating. Internment will follow at Pinecrest Memorial Park in Mena, Arkansas under the direction of Beasley-Wood Funeral Home of Mena.
Mystrey Joie James Obituary
Mystrey Joie James
May 31, 20018 ~ June 2, 2018
Mystrey Joie James entered the world on Saturday, May 31, 2008 and left too soon on Saturday, June 2, 2018. She was 10 years old.Mystrey just finished the 3rd grade and attended Arkansas Virtual Academy. She loved animals and wanted to be a veterinarian when she grew up. She was involved in scouting and the Ouachita Little Theater. She was full of energy, imagination, and giggles. She loved making art and anything with sparkles. She attended First Baptist Church in Hatfield. Mystrey had a big heart and never met a stranger. She loved adventures.
Mystrey was a loving daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece, cousin, and friend. She was survived by her parents, Tommy and Amanda Broach of Nashville, Arkansas; one brother, Gabriel Jackson of Nashville, Arkansas; one sister, Patience Broach of Nashville, Arkansas; paternal grandparents, Carl and Mary Broach of Vandervoort, maternal grandmothers, Ronda Moore and Betty Moore of Mena, Arkansas; Robert Jackson and family, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.
A memorial service will be held Friday, June 8, 2018 at 2:00 pm at the First Baptist Church in Hatfield, Arkansas with Brother Scott O' Rear officiating. Cremation services are entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas.
In lieu of flowers the family is requesting new stuffed animals be donated in Mystrey's honor and then will be donated to the Arkansas Children's Hospital after the service.
Billy George Walker Obituary
Billy George Walker
Billy Walker, age 79, of Cove, Arkansas, died Friday, June 1, 2018 at Rich Mountain Nursing and Rehab. He was born on Saturday, February 18, 1939 to George Franklin and Hazel Mildred Vantrease Walker in St. Joseph, Missouri.
Billy loved his country and served in the United States Army for 30 years as well as the United States Marine Corps for 4 years. He enjoyed working on cars and shooting his guns. Billy was a great thinker and was a very patient man. His wife was the most important guiding light in his life. Billy was a member of the NRA and was very proud of his time spent with the military serving the country. Billy was a loving husband, father, grandfather and a great friend who will be missed by all who knew him.
He is preceded in death by his parents.
Billy is survived by his wife, Marilyn Walker of Cove; two sons and daughter in law, Greg and Debra Walker of St. Joseph, Missouri and Jay Walker of Cove; three grandchildren, Alexis Walker, Trenten Walker, and Luke Walker all of St. Joseph, Missouri; and a host of other relatives and friends.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, June 7, 2018 at 10:00 A.M. at the Nobel Center in Cove with Brother Steve Squires officiating. Interment will follow at the Pleasant Grove Cemetery in Cove. General visitation will be during business hours at Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena.
6-5-18 12:11 p.m. kawx.org
Kent Shrader Obituary
Kent Shrader age 67 of Mena, Arkansas passed away Saturday, June 2, 2018 at Baylor Medical Center, in Dallas Texas.
Kent was born in Mena, Arkansas on March 7, 1951 to the late Addis H. Shrader and the late Clarica Plevan Norris Shrader. He was happily married to Dixie Southern Shrader for 42 years. He retired from Mena Wal-Mart in 2016 after 20 years and was a lifetime cattle rancher. Kent loved outdoor hobbies such as fishing and hunting with family and friends. He took pride in helping several people kill their first deer, turkey, squirrel, or hook their first fish. Above all he loved his family and grandchildren deeply. He was a thoughtful and loving husband, father, Poppy, brother, uncle and friend to all.
He is survived by his wife: Dixie Shrader of Mena, Arkansas
Daughters: Katrina Evans and husband David of Van Buren, Arkansas, and Kendra Myers and husband Justin of Mena, Arkansas
Grandchildren: Chisum Myers and Addis Myers
Brother: Brent Shrader and wife Becky of Mena, Arkansas
Sister: Regina Walker of Mena, Arkansas.
He was preceded in death by his parents Addis and Clarica Shrader, brothers Bobby Joe Norris and Rodney O. Norris, brother-in-law Larry D. Walker, and sister-in-law Kathy Shrader.
Funeral services will be Friday, June 8, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. at Beasley-Wood Chapel with Brother Donnie Jewell and Brother Deno Weingarten officiating. Interment will follow at the Mollie Gann Cemetery in Potter, Arkansas under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home of Mena.
Family and friend's visitation will be Thursday, June 7, 2018 at Beasley-Wood from 6:00-8:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to any veteran's organization or the charity of one's choice.
Pallbearers are Bill Wetherington, Burt Nichols, Phillip Hatley, Dean Terrell, Tony Lambert, Steve Golden, Mike Jackson, Sr., and Dennis Rowe.
Honorary pallbearers are Joe Murphy, Gary Boone, Dr. Richard Calleton, Shone Rose and Johnny Seavers.
Bethel Hicks Obituary
Bethel Hicks, age 100 of Sims, Arkansas and went to be with her Lord and Savior on Saturday, June 2, 2018.
She was born January 12, 1918 to the late Thomas Houston Hicks and the late Melvina Willhite Hicks. She was a teacher by profession. Mrs. Hicks was the caretaker of the family. It made her happy to make sure others had what they needed even if it meant her doing without. She loved her family and church, being a member of the Pine Ridge Union Church. In the past, when she was able, she would prepare Sunday dinner for the preacher. She didn't have any children or grandchildren of her own but was considered mother and grandmother to many. Mrs. Hicks was a loving Christian woman and will be dearly missed.
Survivors are any nieces and nephews and a host of friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas and Melvina Hicks and her brothers and sisters Dora Howard, Kirby Hicks, George Hicks, Leona McBride, Gilbert Hicks, Wesley Hicks, Grace Chambers, Wilford Hicks, Glen Hicks and Clifford Hicks.
Funeral service will be Tuesday, June 5, 2018 at 10:00 a.m. at the Pine Ridge Union Church with Brother Randy Deramus officiating. Interment will follow in the Pine Ridge Cemetery under the direction of the Beasley-Wood Funeral Home. Visitation will be Tuesday morning at 9:00 a.m. before the service at the Pine Ridge Union Church.
Pallbearers will be Travis Quinn, Derek Quinn, Colton Milam, Clayton Milam, Rodney Milam and Marty Taylor.


The Administration's Tactic To Trump H1-B Visas - Scarborough Law, L.L.C.The Administration's Tactic To Trump H1-B Visas - Scarborough Law, L.L.C.
The current administration has been working quietly with the Justice Department to change the H1-B process. The plan would enforce the President's campaign promise to "Buy American, Hire American." The administration is considering companies under the H1-B program to implement the "Buy American, Hire American" mentality by requiring employers job advertise to U.S. workers before hiring H1-B workers; reducing the cap and duration for the visas; requiring employers to report and submit duties done by their H1-B employees; and cutting "optional practical training" (OPT) for STEM graduates to work in the U.S. three years after graduation. Nothing is set in stone but why limit innovation and highly-educated workers for nationalist nepotism.


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Review – Persona 5
May 10, 2017	 Posted by	Leo Stevenson PS4, Review
The word 'stylish' is one that's undeniably overused in videogame reviews. Unfortunately, it's impossible to write about Persona 5 without using it. Persona 5 is stylish as hell and it flaunts it.
Everything from the character designs, art style, HUD and menus has been designed to ooze style. Thankfully, stylishness hasn't been at the expense of function. Persona 5 is both gorgeous to look at and intuitive to use.
It's often easy for JRPGs to become cluttered with menus and difficult to navigate, but Persona 5 avoids this pitfall entirely. The HUD and menus are clean, direct and simple. Everything you discover and all mechanics and menus are explained as you go and there aren't any situations in which you're lost as to what to do. Even if you're unfamiliar with the genre as a whole, Persona 5 eases players into proceedings.
Anime High School
Once a niche series, Persona has exploded in the west in recent years. So much so that Persona 5 was completely out of stock at retail in Australia for two entire weeks after launch. On one hand, it's a little strange that it's become so popular, given the subject matter. On the other hand, with anime's popularity continuing to grow and the Persona titles being so well made it's really not surprising.
Persona 5 follows the established formula of the series and puts you in the shoes of the new kid in town. Dramatic events have led to your transfer to Tokyo with Shujin Academy being the only school that'll take you in. Family friend, and gruff father figure, Sojiro Sakura gives the protagonist a place to stay, but only as long as he behaves. A fact of which he'll remind you of regularly.
The opening couple of hours are very linear and largely consist of slick anime cutscenes, in-engine cutscenes and brief gameplay sections serving as tutorials. Aside from the explosive opening scene, Persona 5 begins rather ploddingly. That may sound like a criticism, but it's actually the opposite. After you get deeper into the game, you'll be longing for the simplicity and slow pace of those opening hours.
Each day is separated into several periods of time. You're only able to carry out a few activities per day with options including studying, hanging out with friends, taking part in mini-games or visiting the Palaces in the Metaverse. The former are all ways to learn new skills, improve stats or foster relationships. All of which are essential in levelling up and becoming strong enough to defeat the bosses.
The latter, as with all Persona titles, is a sort of shadow realm. It reveals people's true natures and is the dungeon crawling portion of the game. In the Metaverse, characters' shadow forms take control and Personas are used and captured (like Pokèmon) to do battle.
Getting to the heart of each Palace is key in Persona 5 as doing so will affect events outside the metaverse. Each Palace is a representation of an antagonists true desires and each is designed to reflect that. The first of these, Kamoshida's Palace, is an enormous castle that sees the Gym Teacher as King, able to do what he wants, whenever he wants.
Persona 5's use of a clock isn't only limited to each day. Early on, you're given a countdown timer until game over. Fail to complete the game's first Palace in that time and you'll fail. No second chances. Well, other than reloading your save and trying again.
Chaotic, Insecure Delusions
This is when time management and choice become a huge factor in your success. If you spend too much time worrying about one stat or relationship and neglect another, you may find that when you face the boss you're grossly under prepared.
You'll never have enough time to see and do everything, which is important to note. Modern games place an emphasis on completion, but it's the opposite for Persona. Using your gut instinct and knowing you're going to miss out on certain things is the only way to play. Besides, there's a new game plus mode for those keen enough to see the differences.
Persona's use of the Shadow, Metaverse and psychological metaphors lean heavily on the works of Carl Jung. While not always subtle or particularly clever, Persona tries, more than many other games to include some assessment of the psychological effect actions can have. It especially looks at how interpersonal relationships and interactions with other humans have an impact on the way a person thinks and feels.
So Much Drama
It's an interesting concept and one that may seem at odds with the high school/high fantasy setting, but it works brilliantly. Perhaps because the high school experience is one we can all relate to. The alienation, fear, desire to fit in and loneliness that come with being a teenager sit at the forefront of Persona 5. They do so, without sacrificing entertainment or enjoyment.
The plot takes place via flashback after the opening sequence. The protagonist and leader of the Phantom Thieves has been taken into custody. Questions are asked and accusations levelled about the Phantom Thieves and their goals.
What seems like a story about Japanese teenagers, in true Persona fashion, becomes so much more. Murder, intrigue and political maneuvering all feature in the plot, but it's the sub-text and the things which are only alluded to that have the greatest impact.
Not All Sunshine & Rainbows
Sexual and physical abuse and suicide are focal points of the narrative from early on. They're never explicitly revealed, but connecting the dots is easy enough. Persona 5, for all its style and charm and frivolous exterior is heavy and deals with weighty issues.
It does so quite skillfully too. Persona 5 is very much an anime story with all the tropes you'd expect from the genre. It's hard not to love and loathe the characters you're respectively supposed to. It's also impossible to not become invested in the plot. It becomes your story as the protagonist becomes an extension of you. He becomes your Shadow.
Not everything is great within Persona 5 though. For the most part, its treatment of female characters is excellent, but a few egregious moments of fan service. Unfortunately, there's no option to play as a female protagonist because the developers considered it not worth the effort.
Lack of Inclusion
Worse still is the treatment of gay people. A recurring joke features two characters, played up for the effeminate nature and sexual orientation. Persona 5 strives so far to treat characters as believable, real people, but then uses two gay guys as the punchline to a joke. It's offensive at best, homophobic at worst.
The protagonist also has plenty of romance options within the game, provided they're of the opposite gender. He's even able to romance older women, some in positions of authority over him, with little consequence. There's no option for any male-male romance. In 2017 this isn't just an oversight, it's a deliberate omission.
Social issues aside, Persona 5 is a brilliant, deep and complex game. The narrative is the high point and is supported by some of the best JRPG dungeon crawling money can buy. It's a shame that the developers have willfully ignored/maligned a section of their fanbase, though hopefully in future this can be remedied.
Game of the Year?
Fans of Persona need to play the most recent addition. If you're curious about the latest entry, but have never played Persona before, Persona 5 is a great place to start. It's accessible, artful, plays like a dream and features a dynamite plot.
Mark it down as an early contender for Game of the Year.
Persona 5 was reviewed on PS4 using a promotional copy provided to PowerUp! by Atlus.
PowerUp! Reviews
Game title: Persona 5
Forty Six & 2 - 9.5/10
Swiss Psychiatry - 9/10
Gotta Catch 'em All - 10/10
Tags: AtlusPersonaPersona 5SEGA
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The Idumean Covenant by Eugene Stovall
December 18, 2009 at 8:08 pm	(Fiction, History)
The Idumean Covenant: A Novel of the Fall of Jerusalem
Eugene Stovall
OPC, 2009
Note: This is a guest review by Bronwen Forbes, who graciously agreed to take on some of the extra review copies I had when I decided to go on semi-hiatus.
Guest reviewer Bronwen Forbes again with the third book that Lupa invited me to comment upon here.
The Idumean Covenant is the story of two men, Robban and Lupo who find themselves caught up in the fall of Jerusalem in the time of the Roman emperor Nero. When childhood friends Robban and Lupo run away from their powerful yet benevolent owner, they join the Sicarii, an army of Jewish bandits that are sworn to liberate Jerusalem from its Roman rulers. The two friends inadvertently find themselves making history as the son of their former owner rises in power.
I wanted to love this book, I really did. I even tried to set aside my longstanding dislike of novels that are told in third person present tense ("Josephus remains immobile, saying nothing."). But when character point-of-view switched every few paragraphs, I quickly gave up on whose head I was supposed to be in at any given moment. Very confusing.
There is also an overabundance of telling the reader about the major historical events that frame the novel, rather than placing the characters in those events and letting the reader see them through the character's eyes. I am not a scholar of this particular period in history (that's my history professor husband's job), so I was completely lost as to the deep significance of these events as they pertained to the novel. And without a good understanding of the historical events, the entire point of the story was lost to me.
For instance, the author indicates that the Sicarii raids on Roman caravans is a major plot point, yet the reader is only told about these raids in a few lecture-dreary info-dump paragraphs. Seeing the raids, being there with Robban and Lupo would have been much more effective and interesting to read. Sadly, this is just one of many examples of why "show, don't tell" is Rule #1 for all good fiction authors.
However, the story (as opposed to the mini historic lectures) is well-written with interesting, sympathetic characters, and Stovall is quite good at illustrating little details about life in the first century c.e. Jerusalem. Perhaps someone more familiar with the history of the period would appreciate the book more.