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The City of Brass (Daevabad Trilogy #1)
by S. A. ChakrabortyS. A. Chakraborty
"Dizzyingly magical." –Laini Taylor
"You must read it." –Sabaa Tahir
"An opulent masterpiece." –Roshani Chokshi
"Leaves you wishing for more." –Michael J. Sullivan
Step into The City of Brass, the spellbinding debut from S. A. Chakraborty, an imaginative alchemy of The Golem and the Jinni, The Grace of Kings, and Uprooted, in which the future of a magical Middle Eastern kingdom rests in the hands of a clever and defiant young con artist with miraculous healing gifts.
Nahri has never believed in magic. Certainly, she has power; on the streets of eighteenth-century Cairo, she's a con woman of unsurpassed talent. But she knows better than anyone that the trades she uses to get by—palm readings, zars, and a mysterious gift for healing—are all tricks, both the means to the delightful end of swindling Ottoman nobles and a reliable way to survive.
But when Nahri accidentally summons Dara, an equally sly, darkly mysterious djinn warrior, to her side during one of her cons, she's forced to reconsider her beliefs. For Dara tells Nahri an extraordinary tale: across hot, windswept sands teeming with creatures of fire and rivers where the mythical marid sleep, past ruins of once-magnificent human metropolises and mountains where the circling birds of prey are more than what they seem, lies Daevabad, the legendary city of brass—a city to which Nahri is irrevocably bound.
In Daevabad, within gilded brass walls laced with enchantments and behind the six gates of the six djinn tribes, old resentments run deep. And when Nahri decides to enter this world, her arrival threatens to ignite a war that has been simmering for centuries.
Spurning Dara's warning of the treachery surrounding her, she embarks on a hesitant friendship with Alizayd, an idealistic prince who dreams of revolutionizing his father's corrupt regime. All too soon, Nahri learns that true power is fierce and brutal. That magic cannot shield her from the dangerous web of court politics. That even the cleverest of schemes can have deadly consequences.
After all, there is a reason they say to be careful what you wish for . . .
Daevabad Trilogy Series , #1
S. A. Chakraborty is a speculative fiction writer from New York City. The City of Brass is her first novel. www.sachakraborty.com
…it's clear we're in the hands of a playful writer…The Muslim world is no stranger to speculative fiction, though that label wouldn't be used there. Islamic folklore and narratives are full of flying machines, impossible journeys, skewed time frames and stories that illuminate cultural or scientific theories. It's clear that Chakraborty has great fun alluding to these tales, though in storytelling terms The City of Brass is standard, fast-paced fantasy fare…Most enjoyable is the gusto with which everything is thrown into [Nahri's] story, from massacres to zombies to djinns. If there are stereotypes, they're consciously acknowledged and mischievously inhabited. At the moment, speculative fiction has an exciting relationship with protest fiction and feminist narratives, and while The City of Brass doesn't blow away cultural notions of difference or reconfigure the male-female divide, it does exploit the genre's penchant for inclusion. In fact, the novel feels like a friendly hand held out across the world…It reads like an invitation for readers from Baghdad to Fairbanks to meet across impossibly divergent worlds through the shared language and images of the fantastical.
The New York Times Book Review - Suzanne Joinson
The familiar fantasy theme of a young person learning of a hidden supernatural legacy is given new life in this promising debut novel, set in late-18th-century Egypt. Twenty-something Nahri, who has the ability to sense illness in others and to heal some ailments, supports herself as a fortune-teller and con artist in Cairo. Her routine, if precarious, existence, is shattered when a girl she is trying to help is possessed by an ifrit. Nahri only avoids being killed through the intervention of Dara, a djinn, who reveals that Nahri is from a family of magical healers. Chakraborty combines the plot's many surprises with vivid prose ("The cemetery ran along the city's eastern edge, a spine of crumbling bones and rotting tissue where everyone from Cairo's founders to its addicts were buried"), and leavens the action with wry humor. There is enough material here—a feisty, independent lead searching for answers, reminiscent of Star Wars's Rey, and a richly imagined alternate world—to support a potential series. Agent: Jennifer Azantian, Azantian Literary. (Nov.)
The City of Brass immerses you in a magnificent and vivid world. It's a thrilling adventure, brimming with fabulous magic, compelling characters, and wonderful intrigue. I can't wait for book two!
Sarah Beth Durst
The City of Brass is the best adult fantasy I've read since The Name of the Wind. It's stunning and complex and consuming and fantastic. You must read it.
Sabaa Tahir
S. A. Chakraborty's debut novel is an adventure that sweeps readers through the streets of Cairo and out into a spellbinding landscape of magic, warring clans, sacrifice, and betrayal. Each page reveals a new wonder. Con-woman Nahri, djinn warrior Dara, and the enchanted city that they--and we--are only just beginning to understand, are captivating. What an exciting ride!
Fran Wilde
A richly imagined, stunningly immersive book that takes you into a world of darkly alluring djinn and beguiling magic...Peopled with irresistible characters and steeped in the myths of the Middle East, The City of Brass is a dazzlingly inventive tale.
Ausma Zehanat Khan
I particularly love a story of twisty, complex, dangerous, and character-driven family and palace politics, steeped in hidden history, cruel betrayals, and desires that can't be admitted. The City of Brass delivers on all counts.
Kate Elliot
The City of Brass is a mesmerizing fantasy tale of magic and intrigue that showcases the very best that the fantasy genre has to offer...a superbly written, lush fantasy story that deserves to be at the top of your to-read list.
Hypable
Chakraborty's debut dazzles...The City of Brass takes readers on an emotional roller-coaster, leaving them with an open ending that will have them desperate for the follow-up. Majestic and magical.
It's hard to describe just how gorgeous and intricate this fantasy novel is.
Syfy Wire
Chakraborty writes a winning heroine in Nahri — flawed but smart and engaging. And her portrayal of the cultural conflicts in the magical city of Daevabad and of Ali's inner turmoil is compelling and complex, serving as a strong counterpoint to the thrilling action.
Vivid descriptions percolate the lush prose, and a final twist leaves room for a sequel. Recommend this scintillating, Middle Eastern fantasy to fans of thoughtful, mystical adventures.
[The City of Brass] reads like an invitation for readers from Baghdad to Fairbanks to meet across impossibly divergent worlds through the shared language and images of the fantastical.
With this rich and layered novel, Chakraborty builds a fantasy world as intricate and intriguing as its Middle Eastern setting. Following the various subplots is like pondering vibrant Arabic design; readers will lose themselves in the wonder and complexity.
Fast-paced, strong characters, and immersive world-building—S. A. Chakraborty debut is a carpet-flying adventure of djinn-filled wonder that leaves you wishing for more."
Chakraborty's first book in her in Daevabad Trilogy introduces an enchanting world of magic and treachery that will leave you clamoring for book two.
Shelf Awareness (starred review)
An extravagant feast of a book—spicy and bloody, dizzyingly magical, and still, somehow, utterly believable.
An opulent masterpiece. Chakraborty's debut is desire-soaked, intrigue-laced, and rife with so-delicious-you'll-sink-your-teeth-into-it worldbuilding and equally mesmerizing characters. A must-read.
The City of Brass is more than a promising debut — it beguiles all the way...Chakraborty's research and imagination are equally strong, and she deftly sets up a rich world — and ample suspense — for the rest of this trilogy.
Vulture (The Ten Best Fantasy Books of 2017)
A writer and organizer with the Brooklyn Speculative Fiction Writers' group, Chakraborty sets her debut fantasy in 1700s Cairo, Egypt, where street hustler Nahri cons people with her tricks but rejects the idea that magic really exists until she manages to summon up a dark and wily djinn warrior. The warrior's stories take Nahri to a land she thought lived only in myths and finally to the magnificent City of Brass.
Nahri, a common Cairo thief who can sense sickness in others and sometimes heal them, is thrust into a magical world when she accidentally summons a powerful djinn. The handsome Dara insists that he escort Nahri to the magical hidden Daevabad, the City of Brass, where Nahri will be protected by Prince Ali's family, who have the power of Suleiman's seal. Never sure whom to trust, Nahri must rely on her street smarts to survive the dangers of the beguiling city and the duplicitous natures of those who surround her. Chakraborty's compelling debut immerses readers in Middle Eastern folklore and an opulent desert setting while providing a rip-roaring adventure that will please even those who don't read fantasy. Though Nahri is in her early 20s, young adults will recognize themselves in her. The other narrator, Prince Ali, is an 18-year-old second son who doubts the current class structure of his kingdom. Chakraborty's meticulous research about Middle Eastern lore is evident, but readers won't be bogged down by excessive details. VERDICT A must-purchase fantasy for all libraries serving young adults.—Sarah Hill, Lake Land College, Mattoon, IL
The City of Brass is a true testament to Chakraborty's writing [...] She has constructed a fantastic and immersive world brimming with Islamic lore, written characters that will stay with you long after the end of the book, and created a plot that will have you on tenterhooks.
The City of Brass is fast-paced and totally engrossing. It's the kind of book you can really immerse yourself in, and I'm so glad I was able to spend some time in this richly-detailed world.
Even a few pages will enmesh you in its magic.
The City of Brass: A Novel 4.7 out of 5 based on 0 ratings. 33 reviews.
This book is beautifully written with complex and multilayered characters. You find yourself rooting and condemning the actions and beliefs of your favourite characters. Can't wait for book 2
An amazing story, with characters who burn brightly. Happy to know it is the first of a trilogy. as I did not want the adventures to end.
Could not put it down
I need more!
City of a brass took my mind to faraway, mystical lands that left my mind hungry for more. Before I knew what was happening, I was so entrenched in the tale I could practically see it playing before my very eyes. I look forward to starting book number 2!
Anonymous 9 months ago
Very entertaining! I loved getting to explore a different side of fantasy.
The pace was non-stop,it never lagged for a second. It's not like anything I've read before. She beautifully brought a whole new world to life, one that I'd love to return to.
ByEllieM More than 1 year ago
This book is full of lush world building and deep characters and relationships. The complicated relationships between all the characters makes it impossible to pick a favorite--or a side. Muddy politics and detailed history bring everything together in this book that was impossible for me to put down. And that ending... The author doesn't hold back!
3.5 stars Nahri is a con artist and thief. As part of a con, she accidentally summons Dara, a Daeva/Djinn warrior. She then has ifrits and ghouls chasing her. Dara helps her escape, and they travel to Daevabad, home to the Djinn rulers and many Daeva/Djinn. Nahri discovers she is descended from the Nahids, the former ruling family, who was overthrown by the al Qahtanis, the current rulers. When she gets to Daevabad, she is revered by the Daevas, 1 of the 6 tribes of the Djinn. She struggles to learn her healing powers, which only the Nahid family has, and is caught up in the politics in Daevabad. The 2nd POV is Prince Ali, 2nd son of the King. He is a devout Muslim, has trained most of his life to become Qaid, commander of the Royal Guard, and is sympathetic to the shafit (part Djinn/part human). Though the king is from the Am Gezira tribe, he is sympathetic to the Daevas, who loathe the shafit. The shafit are persecuted and treated unfairly. Their children are kidnapped and sold by the pure blooded Djinn, and they live in squalor, and the king does nothing about it. Ali tries to help them by giving them money from his own funds, which he believes is going towards food, medicine, help for orphans, etc. However, he discovers they are also using his money for weapons, which he does not approve of. His father finds out and makes him acting Qaid while the current Qaid is away. Ali has to do things he does not like, such as putting some shafit to death. He stands up to his father and tells him he doesn't want to be Qaid, and his father forces him to befriend Nahri to pave the way for his older brother to marry her. However, they become true friends, and Ali helps her. Overall, the book was good, and I would recommend it, but I did have some problems with it. The pacing was a bit slow, especially the first 1/2 from Nahri's perspective, which is spent traveling to Daevabad. Another problem I had was Dara. I really, really tried to like him since he was Nahri's love interest, but I really couldn't. I did have some sympathy for him for the things he was made to do as a slave. However, he did other horrible things before becoming a slave that just seem inexcusable. He is also basically an Aryan. He is highly prejudiced against humans, shafits, and anyone non-Daeva. He is disgusted by pure bloods mixing with humans and by Daevas mixing with non-Daevas. The other Daevas seem to be of the same mindset, with the exception of 1. They won't even eat meat as they feel the animal blood will pollute theirs. Dara is arrogant, rude, condescending, and completely disrespectful of Nahri and what she wants. Despite knowing these things, Nahri nevertheless loves him, basically because he is hot. She also doesn't want to know of the bad things Dara did in his past, so she can keep on loving him. At first, I really liked Nahri, but I did lose some respect for her due to her feelings for Dara. I just can't see how someone can love such a vile creature. I also disliked how the romance basically seemed to come out of nowhere. One minute, Nahri hates Dara and is cursing him, the next they are making out. Ali, on the other hand, I really liked. While a bit naive, he is kind, caring, and really wants to help the shafit. He respects Nahri and teaches her to read and to use magic, which Dara did not do. I'd like to see him and Nahri together, but regardless, I hope Nahri doesn't continue to love Dara, especially after what he did at the end of the book.
I+loved+that+each+character+was+not+purely+good+or+a+hero.++They+all+had+bias+and+darkness+as+well+as+good.++it+makes+their+misunderstandings++more+frustrating++and+real.+
The City of Brass is one of my favorite reads this year. I read it a few months ago but I didn't have an opportunity to review it until now. I highly recommend this book to a lot of people because I loved it. The story follows Nahri, a con woman, who accidentally summons a djinn warrior during one of her cons. This incident leads to Nahri discovering that she's from a long line of Nahid healers. The djinn warrior, Dara, tells her a little bit about her family, Daevabad, the legendary city of brass, and they set out to find the city. The journey to Daevabad is dangerous and the story doesn't end there. So, let me briefly count the reasons why I enjoyed this book: Intriguing plot with court politics ✔ World-building ✔ Lush writing and mythology ✔ Lovable characters ✔ The story is narrated from the point of view of Nahri and Alizayd. Nahri is equal parts sassy, fierce, resourceful and lovable. My favorite kind of heroine. Her struggles to adapt to her new reality are depicted about as realistic as you can expect after accidentally summoning a warrior and getting thrown into this magical world. Ali is devout, awkward, and super naive. He's so precious. I loved his relationship with his brother and hated the way his father treated him. The writing for these characters are pretty distinct and they experience a lot of growth and development. The side characters are also written well and there are signs of an LGBTQ relationship, which I hope we see more of in the sequel. Chakraborty brilliantly crafts this story. The writing style is superb and lush. My goodness. Chakraborty's prose is stunning. The book gets better as the plot unfolds and we are introduced to the numerous side plots. There's this mysteriousness about the story that had me flipping pages so quickly. There are flying carpets, swords, and mischievousness. There's some violence, but it's minimal. I was thoroughly entertained and even purchased the audiobook just to continue the story when I had to leave my house. Daevabad jumps off the page. Have you ever read about a fictional world and instantly wanted to travel there? Well this was the case with Daevabad. Chakraborty's world-building is immaculate. Daevabad is intriguing and her descriptions of this world are fascinating. At the heart of the plot is readers discovering this beautiful city as much as it is about Nahri discovering that she is bound to it. My only critique of this book is the pacing. The first half has a lot of world-building and information about Daevabad's history, the different tribes, and the magic system. At times, I had to pause just to absorb everything because of information overload. That kind of dragged the story a bit; however, don't be deterred by that because everything afterwards was super addictive and the ending had me shooked. The City of Brass is an exciting new series and quite the adventure. It's adult fantasy, but it has some crossover appeal. The characters ages range from 18 to immortal. I cannot wait to get my hands on the sequel, which comes out in January 2019. I'm hoping the universe will see fit to bestow me with an early copy.
Let's get to the heart of the question: should you read this book. YES! Hands down YES! "Tell me why nena, but don't tell me what HAPPENS." OK *Sucks in deep breath.* - brooding warriors who SLAY - magic cities with potions, betrayals, curses, revolts, and death - flying carpets - demonic monsters that you would dive into their murderous waters to learn more about - royal intrigue - world building that touches on known and imagined religions, languages, cities, customs, magics, and wars - non westernized settings and inspiration from non westernized legends/stories - characters that draw you in and then stick in your mind even after you put the book down, like Nahri the thief with magic up her sleeve. "He was an easy mark. Nahri smiled behind her veil, watching the two men bicker as they approached her stall." Pacing is a little slow in the beginning (compared to rest of book), but it established what Cairo life is like, and what our MC Nahri is like. Unless you're just not interested in seeing Cairo during this old old time, it could be considered slow, but I'd disagree. I was sucked in the minute Nahri picked a gullible mark to swindle, until the final pages. Once her adventure really gets under swing with a "lunatic fire creature" we call Dara (name said with a melancholy sigh and with a small hint of longing), the POV does switch to Ali. The switch jarred me a bit, but eventually people start getting chopped up, and things picked back up. Even in the middle of the action, the author digs into the heart of her main characters (Dara aside, because SECRETS). I feel like I could tell you why I would be friends with Ali, why I want to be a thief like Nahri, and I can even tell you why I sympathize with the "usurper" king sitting on the throne (who never gets a POV but the author is so talented you feel like you did). But why should I take all the fun from you when you read a be a part of the adventure and the characters yourself?
Can't wait for the next book to come Out!
Interesting plot
Raine23611 More than 1 year ago
Oh. Oh my. Why did I read this book before book 2 was released? Drowning in tears of my own regret. The writing. The characters. The setting. The pacing. The EVERYTHING. I couldn't have more love for this book. Chakraborty is a mastermind of adult fantasy and I cannot wait to read her next book. The depth of her world-building is on par with C.S. Friedman. It's the first time I've read another author who could make me fall so completely in love with every part of the story. So. Well. Done.
pooled_ink More than 1 year ago
pooled ink Reviews: Well first of all it's an impressive debut novel to be sure! The imagery, the plot, the writing, it unfolds with such unique flavor and grandeur that it's to be commended. I certainly enjoyed the fresh take on this fantasy tale as it not only is inspired by Middle Eastern culture but is actually rooted and suffused with it. Egypt, Islam, and Middle Eastern myths are not mere facets to the story but are the story's heart from whence the story blooms. That being said it was easy to enjoy while reading but just as easy to put down and step away. My favorite aspect of this book was the world-building however it could admittedly become quite dense and overly-detailed in the writing, but the imagery and concepts were breathtaking. If you're able to persevere and utilize a determined imagination then you'll likely get swept away by it all. THE CITY OF BRASS is a novel proud with magic, myths, and destiny. Spun together with an expert pen, adventure and politics whisk the reader away in this desert tale of family, oppression, fate, and love. Boldly told and adorned by a delicate hand, this historical fantasy deserves the praise it receives.
I loved this book sooooooo much! The world was intricate and wonderfully described. The characters were all amazingly fleshed out and multi-faceted with their own motivations and goals that were weaved together with a fluidity that is rare to find(in my opinion). I was on the edge of my seat from page 1, and scared my dog as I screamed my way through the book. The plot took some unexpected twists and turns that were highly refreshing. As much as I love Nahri and Ali (Ali more so towards the end of the book, to be fair), my favorite character was -------- (I can't tell you the name, as that is not revealed in the synopsis or for a while in the book and I don't want to spoil as it is pretty relevant to the plot). I love this character sooooo much, and everytime they were in the story I was completely enamored of the layers and depth of personality (not that the other characters do not have depth and layers to their personalities, but wooooooooo buddy). I could literally go on forever about this book, and I highly, highly recommend anyone go out and get this book. I cannot wait for the sequel, The Kingdom of Copper, to come out in January 2019! So if you haven't read it yet (or you want to reread it), you have time to get yourself, your mom, dad, sibling, cousin, extended family, friend(s) a copy of this book.
One of the best books I've ever read. Each step of the way Chakraborty weaves an immersive tale full of moral gray areas and political intrigue. This has easily become my favorite book and I can't wait for the next installment of the series.
When will the next book be out?
Historical Cairo, a dangerous journey across the desert, and the djinn city Daevabad... There are few books that tick all of my boxes the way THE CITY OF BRASS does. This book is wonderfully researched and filled to the brim with an enchantingly built world. The pacing, too, is excellent with just enough information given to keep the story engaging and compelling. It is steeped in mythology to the point that I even forgot we ever inhabited the "real world" in the first place. However, as usual, my favorite aspect was the characters. We have Nahri: thief, healer, con artist and veil-wearing BAMF who accidentally uses magic she knows nothing about. Along the way she learns more about her legacy, thanks mostly in part to Dara, the grumpy Daeva warrior of legend. Their relationship in particular - which builds slowly over their time traveling from Cairo to Daevabad - gave my angsty heart everything it ever wanted. "She stomped toward the forest. If I die out here, I hope I come back as a ghoul. I will haunt that arrogant, wine-soaked daeva until the Day of Judgment." We also are privy to the goings-on in Daevabad through Prince Alizayd, and learn about the less than ideal state of affairs. Tensions are high between the different djinn tribes, and the relationship between shafit (mixed djinn-humans) and full-blooded djinn even more so. Ali is trapped between his moral compass and loyalty to his family, a position that is even more fraught with anxiety once Nahri and Dara arrive. If all of this sounds complicated, it's because it is. But it never once feels dense. Chakraborty has a way of crafting characters and a world that at once feel familiar and legendary. There is a weight there, an anticipation that is prominent throughout as an undercurrent. All of our protagonists are fleshed out to the fullest, making their flaws just as endearing as their strengths. Most impressively, they all sit on issues differently, which means that as problems arise, the tension is palpable. By the last quarter of the book, I was holding my breath, frantically trying to read between tear-soaked eyes. I am rarely taken this strongly by debut series openers, but if this first book is anything to go off of, Chakraborty will be an author I'll be reading for many years to come.
I loved this more than I thought I would! I cannot wait for the sequel.
I loved this book! I found myself completely immersed in the world, and could not put it down. I can't wait for the sequel!!
eclecticbookwrm More than 1 year ago
I devoured this book and enjoyed every single minute of it. Easily my favorite read of 2017. This book fires on all cylinders: captivating, fast-paced plot, gorgeous prose, and setting, and wonderful characters that leap off the page. I will read everything by S.A. Chakraborty.
padfoottonks More than 1 year ago
AMAZING! It was so great to read a book with muslim characters and the fact that it was set in 18th century Cairo and is genre'd as historical fiction made my nerdy little heart so happy! I do recommend referring back to the glossary in the back when things get a little confusing. These characters are so multi-faceted and the world is so consuming! GIMME THE NEXT BOOK ASAP. ALSO PROTECT ALIZAYD AT ALL COSTS!!!!!
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Oghenechovwe Donald Ekpeki: Decolonizing the Mind
December 20, 2021 December 21, 2021 locusmag 0 Comments
Oghenechovwe Donald Ekpeki was born in Ughellii, Delta State, Nigeria. He studied Law at the University of Lagos and later attended law school there. He is currently writing and editing full-time.
He began publishing stories in 2018, and has produced several stories, including Nommo Award winner "The Witching Hour" (2018). "Ife-Iyoku, the Tale of Imadeyunuagbon" (2020) won the Otherwise Award and was a finalist for BSFA, Sturgeon, Nebula, and Nommo ...Read More
Maggie Tokuda-Hall: Power & Justice
Maggie Tokuda-Hall was born in 1984 and grew up in California, living in the Bay Area and Los Angeles. She earned a BA in studio art from Scripps College in Claremont CA, and an MFA in writing from the University of San Francisco.
Her debut novel, queer YA fantasy The Mermaid, the Witch, and the Sea, appeared in (2020) and was selected for the Otherwise Award honor list; a sequel ...Read More
Features Slider Spotlight
Spotlight on: Gary Villarreal
December 6, 2021 December 6, 2021 locusmag 0 Comments
Talk a bit about the process of Kickstarting and printing Villarrte Sketchbook Vol. 1, a Locus Recommended Reading List title. What was the experience like? Highlights and hindsights?
My wife and I were extremely nervous about launching the Kickstarter during the pandemic. Too many uncertainties. So there were a lot of doubts about whether this was going to be a success. One of the highlights, though, was going through with ...Read More
Fonda Lee Guest Post–"We Can't All Be Optimus Prime: Portraying Organizational Leadership in Fiction"
November 30, 2021 October 24, 2021 Alvaro Zinos-Amaro 0 Comments
Who's the best fictional leader?
Optimus Prime? Jean-Luc Picard? Captain America?
I'm willing to wager that all three of those iconic characters would be among the most popular contenders if the question were asked in a general poll, and for understandable reasons. When I was ten years old, sitting in front of a television set on a Saturday morning, Peter Cullen's voice as Optimus Prime ordering, "Autobots, roll out!" made ...Read More
Spotlight on: Tehani Farr
November 22, 2021 November 23, 2021 locusmag 0 Comments
What was your introduction to science fiction and fantasy art? What influences drew you in?
It's a genre that has always simply slotted into my life and perspective. When I was 13, I fell in love with the art of Luis Royo and H.R. Giger, discovered after a long seclusion. I was born and lived off the grid for most of my childhood, was homeschooled all my life, and we ...Read More
Betsy Wollheim: Alpha Daughter
November 15, 2021 November 15, 2021 locusmag 1 Comment
ELIZABETH ROSALIND WOLLHEIM was born December 5, 1951 in New York, the daughter of legendary editor Donald A. Wollheim and Elsie B. Wollheim, and was closely involved with professional SF from an early age.
She attended Beloit College in Wisconsin in 1969, then transferred to Clark University in Massachusetts. She studied English at Clark while simultaneously studying art at the Worcester Art Museum School. After graduation in 1973 she lived ...Read More
Conventions Features
ICon 2021 Online Report
November 13, 2021 November 9, 2021 locusmag 0 Comments Ehud Maimon
Back when work on this year's ICon started, it really did look that we might be going back to the way things used to be, and we would have an in-person convention. The plan was not to let all the work done over the past year and a half go to waste, but have a convention that would be two in-person days and a third virtual day. This plan sadly ...Read More
Chuck Wendig: Accidental Hauntings
November 8, 2021 November 8, 2021 locusmag 0 Comments
CHUCK DAVID WENDIG was born April 22, 1976 and grew up in New Hope PA. He attended Queens University in Charlotte NC, where he studied English and religion, graduated in 1998, and "worked various bizarre day jobs, as many writers do" before becoming a full-time freelancer.
He published a story in 1997 as C.D. Wendig, and another in 2000 as C. David Wendig, but most of his fiction publications date ...Read More
2021 FIYAHCON Report
The second annual FIYAHCON took place online September 16-19, 2021, held via Airmeet and hosted by FIYAH magazine. Guests of honor were Vita Ayala, Malka Older, and Njeri of Onyx Pages. The original event was conceived in the midst of protests and the COVID-19 pandemic, and the inaugural Ignyte awards were conceived following the 2020 Hugo Awards ceremony. Organizer L.D. Lewis, in her 2020 FIYAHCON retrospective on her website, described ...Read More
Spotlight on: Freya Marske
Tell us about your debut novel A Marvellous Light—the world where it takes place and the characters who inhabit that world.
A Marvellous Light is a historical fantasy novel that follows two men as they become reluctantly embroiled in a conspiracy of murder, curses, and contracts. Robin Blyth is a sunshine-hearted jock who's trying to ignore all his responsibilities when he's accidentally named as the government liaison ...Read More
Cory Doctorow: The Unimaginable
November 1, 2021 October 29, 2021 locusmag 3 Comments Cory Doctorow
Margaret Thatcher was the least science-fictional world leader in modern history.
Her motto was "There is no alternative," a phrase she repeated so often it became an acronym: "TINA."
She was referring to capitalism, asserting that there is no conceivable alternative. It was a cheap but remarkably effective rhetorical device, treating a demand as an observation. The true meaning of TINA isn't "No alternative is possible," but rather, "Stop trying ...Read More
R.B. Lemberg: A Different Adventure
October 18, 2021 October 18, 2021 locusmag 0 Comments
R.B. LEMBERG was born September 27, 1976 in Ukraine, and grew up there, in Russia, and in Israel. They attended graduate school at the University of California, Berkeley, where they studied Slavic linguistics, earning a PhD. They work as a sociolinguistics professor at a Midwestern university.
Lemberg began publishing poetry and fiction of genre interest in 2008, initially under the byline Rose Lemberg. Some of their poetry is collected in ...Read More
Estcon 2021 Report
THIS ESTONIAN SUMMER would have been right at home at the Locus office in California: Sunny days under brilliant blue skies with just a slight breeze to keep the heat from becoming stifling. Perfect for the annual outdoor science fiction convention held at Udu Farm in central Estonia. The event wasn't confirmed until just a few weeks before, but the vaccination program had reached full throttle and infection rates remained ...Read More
Tade Thompson: Unified Field Theory
TADE THOMPSON was born in South London in the 1970s. He traveled a lot as a child due to his parents' separation and his father's work as a lawyer (some of which was behind the Iron Curtain). Thompson's qualifications include medicine, psychiatry, and social anthropology, though he flirted with Industrial Chemistry in 1988. He has been a member of the Royal College of Psychiatrists since 2007.
He sold his first ...Read More
Spotlight on: Sana Takeda
October 4, 2021 October 11, 2021 locusmag 0 Comments Spotlight
What was your introduction to the comics field? Who were your influences? Was there a particular artist or artists who drew you in?
You know a lot of talented artists in the field of comics. At first, I felt, ''There is no room for me in this business.'' I have not got any formal education in art and didn't have special drawing skill. It was clear that, even if I ...Read More
Spotlight on Ryka Aoki
September 28, 2021 October 12, 2021 locusmag 0 Comments
Tell us about your new book Light From Uncommon Stars (Tor Books). What's the story about, and what inspired you to create that future?
Light From Uncommon Stars is about violins and deals with the Devil. It's about recovering from transphobia and racism and trauma. It's about space aliens fleeing a galactic war. It talks about the ultimate end of the universe and what is after that end. It talks ...Read More
Photo Story: Odyssey 2021
September 26, 2021 September 20, 2021 locusmag 0 Comments
The 2021 Odyssey Writing Workshop was held June 7 – July 16, 2021. ''Similar to last year, Odyssey held its writing workshop online due to the ongoing pandemic. It is still the same intense and immersive experience as always!'' The 12 students came from the US, Denmark, New Zealand, and India; six of the students received scholarships.
This review and more like it in the August 2021 issue of Locus. ...Read More
Zen Cho: Gods, Ghosts, Gangsters & Grandmas
September 20, 2021 September 16, 2021 locusmag 0 Comments Interviews
ZEN CHO was born in Selangor Malaysia in 1986 and grew up in Malaysia, apart from a year and a half spent in the US around age six. She moved to the UK at 18 for university, where she met her husband. She earned a law degree at Cambridge, and now works as a lawyer. She lives in the UK with her family.
Cho began publishing genre fiction in 2010, ...Read More
Photo Story: Charm City Spec Returns
Baltimore reading series Charm City Spec held its first in-person event of the year on July 14 on the patio of The Ivy Bookshop, with readings by Sarah Pinsker, Michael R. Underwood, Kate Reed Petty, K.M. Szpara, and Karen Osborne. The quarterly event is sponsored by the Baltimore Science Fiction Society with support from The Ivy Bookshop and ''a generous grant from SFWA.'' Information about upcoming events can be found ...Read More
Jennifer Marie Brissett Guest Post–"Time As A Technology"
September 13, 2021 September 13, 2021 Alvaro Zinos-Amaro 0 Comments
My novels have been characterized as being "Afrofuturistic," but to be honest I never thought of the subgenre while writing them. When I write I generally don't think of any subgenre before I sit down to create the work. My thinking when writing is usually concentrated more on story and narrative construction, not on the genre. Mostly all that is happening is that I have a story to tell, I ...Read More
Lavie Tidhar: Between the Cracks
September 13, 2021 September 9, 2021 locusmag 0 Comments Interviews
LAVIE TIDHAR was born November 16, 1976 and raised on a kibbutz in Israel. He has traveled extensively since he was a teenager, living in South Africa, the UK, Laos, and the small island nation of Vanuatu.
Tidhar began publishing with a poetry collection in Hebrew in 1998, but soon moved to fiction, becoming a prolific author of short stories early in the 21st century. Story "Temporal Spiders, Spatial Webs" ...Read More
Features Spotlight
Spotlight on: Robert Repino
September 6, 2021 November 2, 2021 locusmag 0 Comments
Your debut novel Mort(e) came out in 2015 and launched the War with No Name Series. Tell us about that book and the world it introduced.
The sales team likes to call it either "Animal Farm on steroids" or "Animal Farm with machine guns." In short, the series is about a war between humans and sentient animals. In this world, a hyperintelligent queen of a globe-spanning ant colony has vowed ...Read More
Cory Doctorow: Breaking In
September 6, 2021 September 3, 2021 locusmag 0 Comments
When I was a baby writer, I obsessively collected career advice from established writers, reading books and essays and attending panels on ''How I broke in'' featuring established pros. It's a testament to the irrational, burning desire to publish that I continued to do this long after it became apparent that there was nothing of contemporary applicability in these discussions.
I mean, it was entertaining to hear a writer describe ...Read More
TJ Klune: The Idea of Kindness
August 16, 2021 July 28, 2021 locusmag 0 Comments Interviews
Travis John Klune was born May 20, 1982, in Roseburg OR, where he lived until his family relocated to Tucson AZ when he was 16. He moved to Virginia in 2013, where he worked in insurance before becoming a full-time writer in 2016.
Klune began publishing with Bear, Otter and the Kid (2011), and has authored numerous queer romances. His first work of genre interest was Burn (2012). Lambda Award ...Read More
Photo Story: New Found Land
August 13, 2021 July 27, 2021 locusmag 0 Comments
Austin Grossman, Sean Stewart & Neal Stephenson collaborated on Audible Original New Found Land: The Long Haul, released in June 2021. Stewart sent a photo of the team at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area in Texas: "No, seriously, we really were doing research!" For details on the project: <www.audible.com/pd/New-Found-Land-The-Long-Haul-Audiobook/B096BMCLT3>.
While you are here, please take a moment to support Locus with a one-time or recurring donation. We rely on ...Read More
Stephen Graham Jones: Slasher Cycle
August 9, 2021 July 28, 2021 locusmag 0 Comments Interviews
Stephen Graham Jones, a member of the Blackfeet Tribe, was born in 1972 in Midland TX, and grew up in Texas apart, from a year in Colorado when he was a teenager. He attended Texas Tech University, studying English and philosophy, and attained a master's degree at the University of North Texas. He earned his PhD in creative writing at Florida State University. Jones taught at Texas Tech before accepting ...Read More
Commentary Features Kameron Hurley Slider
Kameron Hurley: When Should You Compromise? How to Evaluate Editorial Feedback
August 2, 2021 July 27, 2021 locusmag 1 Comment Commentary, Kameron Hurley
Here's some feedback I've received from editors, agents, and marketing managers in response to my work over the years:
"This is just a jumble of words."
"I think this suffers from a failure of the imagination."
"This is sorta too emotional."
One of the most difficult skills a writer must learn – whether writing novels, screenplays, marketing copy, or news articles – is how to receive, process, and ...Read More
2021 Locus Awards Online Report
July 29, 2021 July 29, 2021 locusmag 0 Comments
The Locus Awards Weekend took place on June 23-26, 2021, in its second virtual-only iteration. Connie Willis emceed the awards ceremony along with host Liza Trombi. There were over 150 registrations, and full members received a Locus t-shirt and awards program. There was also a sliding scale, attendance-only membership available.
This year's online event added panels and doubled the number of readings. A pocket convention, the online events had seven ...Read More
Spotlight on: Shelley Parker-Chan
July 20, 2021 August 20, 2021 locusmag 0 Comments Spotlight
Tell us about your debut novel She Who Became the Sun — the world where it takes place, and the characters who inhabit that world.
She Who Became the Sun is set in China in the mid-1350s, which was the last gasps of a period of short-lived Mongol rule over China — the Yuan dynasty. The Mongols were steppe warriors from a nomadic culture, and China was a sedentary civilisation ...Read More
Ron Goulart (1933-2022)
J. Brian Clarke (1928-2022)
Feng Wins SLF Illustration Award
Bestsellers New Titles & Bestsellers
Weekly Bestsellers, 17 January 2022
January 17, 2022 LocEditor 0
Nancy Kress on Locus
"When I first began writing, LOCUS was what opened up the world of SF for me. Until I discovered the magazine, I didn't know that conventions, review columns, or fandom even existed. And there they all were in the magazine, along with interviews of writers I had worshiped from afar! In the almost 40 years since, LOCUS has continued to be the richest source of information about who, what, where, ...Read More

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
Cinema
Downtown – film del 1975 diretto da Jesús Franco
Pronti a tutto (Downtown) – film del 1990 diretto da Richard Benjamin

 Musica
 Downtown – singolo di Petula Clark del 1964 di cui è stata fatta una cover, anch'essa realizzata come singolo, da Emma Bunton nel 2006
 Downtown – album di Petula Clark del 1965
 Downtown – demo dei Two Fingerz del 2006
 Downtown – singolo di Peaches del 2006
 Downtown – singolo dei Lady Antebellum del 2013
 Downtown – singolo di Macklemore e Ryan Lewis del 2015
 Downtown – singolo di Anitta e J Balvin del 2017
 Downtown Records – etichetta discografica

Televisione
Downtown – serie televisiva statunitense del 1986
Downtown – serie animata di MTV del 1999

Altro
 Downtown – centro di una città negli Stati Uniti d'America
 Downtown – centro o quartiere centrale degli affari di una città
 Downtown  – area di Vancouver
 Downtown – centro amministrativo di Los Angeles
 Downtown – distretto centrale di Seattle
 Iveco DownTown – minibus della Iveco
 Downtown – denominazione dell'area da tre punti della pallacanestro usata dai media statunitensi

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


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However, the vriver was decided to be removed from the upcoming devices resulting to a much less operation noise of the drive, pioneer dvr a05 driver to the previous A03 and A04 models. Pioneer already has released new firmware version that fixed the problem. All Pioneer 10X DVD-ROM drives now conform to the RPC mode 2 standard,as set down by the DVD Forum as mandatory for all manufacturers of DVD-ROM drives produced after January 1st 2000. This media supports "CPRM" and "CSS". How is the Gold Competency Level Attained? From this result, it is concluded that the recorded disks both by 1X and by cdma workshop 2.7 speed will work piooneer general DVD players. However this will not affect the update process.
Note: Read the use contract page in prior upasane kannada songs download the USB converter driver. The drive worked in Ultra DMA Mode 2 transfer mode. Drifer you pioneer dvr a05 driver found our site useful, we will appreciate it if you tell your friends about us in social networks. Till now there isn't any region free firmware. You can also find the head-phone jack, the volume control knob, the forced eject hole and a ventilation hole. Caution: After the driver installation, a file "USB Safe Remover.


text:
Q: Rectangular constraints in Delaunay Triangulation without edges within I'm using a triangulation library to compute the Constrained Delaunay Triangulation of a set of rectangles within some large boundary. The algorithm returns all the edges, but also adds edges inside of the rectangles that define the constraints.
I want to be able to create a graph without the edges within any of the rectangles that are the constraints (with the exception of the large boundary of course) but removing these edges in the triangulation that is given to me takes longer than O(nlog(n)) time at least and that's not good for what I need.
What I'm asking is, is there any quick way to get a CDT to keep edges from appearing within some polygon? I want the rectangles to be empty of edges but I'm not sure how to quickly do that.
In case this helps, the library I'm using is TriPath by Marcello Kallmann, and it is written in c++ (http://graphics.ucmerced.edu/software/tripath/). My application is in Java and I'm using JNI.
EDIT: As requested, here's some images to help you visualize what I'm trying to describe. This CDT is built with the black lines being constraints. As you can see, each constrained edge is part of a rectangle. The blue lines are unconstrained Delaunay edges. I am trying to remove any blue unconstrained Delaunay edges from within the black constrained rectangles.

A: In case constrained rectangles cannot overlap or contain each other, I suggest putting a slightly smaller rectangle inside every original rectangle. The gap between inner and original rectangle should be small enough that no unconstrained edge could possibly fit inside an original rectangle without intersecting a smaller rectangle. Then, after triangulation is done, delete every edge that is adjacent to any of the vertices of those smaller rectangles. That way you'll be able to find out whether an edge should be deleted in O(1) time, and so the whole procedure will take O(E).
One way to choose a small enough gap is to evaluate the triangulation without smaller rectangles, find the edge of minimum length, and take, say, 1/3 of that length as a gap.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


Beautiful large corner wooded lot in the desirable Reserve neighborhood in St. James Plantation. This homesite will fit a variety of house plans with a total road frontage of 235 feet. Conveniently located within St. James and within walking distance of the Reserve Club with Bar & Grill, Wine Room, Pro Shop and fire pit overlooking the 18th hole. St. James amenities include 81 holes of Championship Golf. 4 distinct clubhouses. Indoor and outdoor pools, tennis, and fitness centers with full class offerings. 36+ miles of biking/walking trails. Fish, boat, and kayak on the Intracoastal Waterway. St. James Marina with wet slips/dry stacks, Tommy Thompson's Grille and Tiki Bar. Private beach club with spectacular views. Build your dream home and start living the good life!


text:
Best Big Company To Work For	BOA Award Winner
When United Parcel Service went public in 1999, its generous employee stock option made millionaires out of longtime employees, from managers to delivery truck drivers. And UPS keeps on giving. Even part-time employees get full benefits, including forgivable student loans of $2,000 per year for fourmore...
When United Parcel Service went public in 1999, its generous employee stock option made millionaires out of longtime employees, from managers to delivery truck drivers. And UPS keeps on giving. Even part-time employees get full benefits, including forgivable student loans of $2,000 per year for four years. The company was ranked eighth in the U.S. for employee benefits by MONEY magazine. And Fortune ranked UPS No. 23 out of 1,000 companies for minority employment.
55 Glenlake Parkway. 800-742-5877. www.ups.com.
Best New Building	BOA Award Winner
1180 Peachtree
Best Sign of the New South	BOA Award Winner
As if people making pilgrimages here from hundreds of miles away wasn't enough evidence that Atlanta has reached a new milestone, how about $19.99 for a sleek dining room chair? We now have proof that Atlanta has come of age, and that proof occupies 366,000 square feet inside a blue and yellowmore...
As if people making pilgrimages here from hundreds of miles away wasn't enough evidence that Atlanta has reached a new milestone, how about $19.99 for a sleek dining room chair? We now have proof that Atlanta has come of age, and that proof occupies 366,000 square feet inside a blue and yellow building emblazoned "IKEA." The mostly modern offerings at the home-furnishing Mecca that opened in June are certain to do wonders for interior decor in metro Atlanta and beyond. When your friends' formally frumpy homes suddenly take on the refined glow of the pages of Real Simple, you know something big has happened. less...
Although it wasn't imagined by Fritz Lang, METROPOLIS takes its cues from a similar art deco dream. The 21-story city of glass, designed by Wood Partners and the Novare Group, stands out as an architectural success story in a city filled with tragicomic design. With one-bedroom apartments renting formore...
Although it wasn't imagined by Fritz Lang, METROPOLIS takes its cues from a similar art deco dream. The 21-story city of glass, designed by Wood Partners and the Novare Group, stands out as an architectural success story in a city filled with tragicomic design. With one-bedroom apartments renting for under $1,000 a month and condos selling for less than $200,000, it's not too terribly elitist, either. And though beautiful, the 2-year-old tower boasts smarts as well - including a half-acre park and a Golden Shoe Award, from the pedestrian advocate group PEDS, for pedestrian-friendly design in architecture. "933 Peachtree St. www.metropolisatlanta.com." less...
Castleberry Hill
For a brief second, standing on Peters Street with the glam pizza-and-martinis place on your left, art galleries circling you, and skyscrapers hovering around the bend, you can kinda-sorta almost ask yourself, "Chelsea"? No, this isn't west Manhattan. It's west Atlanta's CASTLEBERRY HILL. Of all themore...
For a brief second, standing on Peters Street with the glam pizza-and-martinis place on your left, art galleries circling you, and skyscrapers hovering around the bend, you can kinda-sorta almost ask yourself, "Chelsea"? No, this isn't west Manhattan. It's west Atlanta's CASTLEBERRY HILL. Of all the inner city neighborhoods that have seen a rebirth over the past decade, Castleberry Hill may offer the most cosmopolitan makeover. It's nestled between downtown and West End, and it's home to five art galleries within walking distance, more than a dozen warehouses-turned-lofts, and a growing commercial contingency. We only wish the Castleberry Hill aesthetic was standard in the New South, rather than a hint of what it could become. "www.castleberryhill.org" less...
SouthTrust at Atlantic Station
Atlantic Station
Mayor Shirley Franklin
Helen M. Aderhold Learning Center
One strains to think of the best overall building constructed in the last year, as most of the new towers were remarkably banal. Atlanta's hometown architecture firm - Lord, Aeck and Sargent - has recently pursued some innovative designs. The firm has just completed the HELEN M. ADERHOLD LEARNING CENTERmore...
One strains to think of the best overall building constructed in the last year, as most of the new towers were remarkably banal. Atlanta's hometown architecture firm - Lord, Aeck and Sargent - has recently pursued some innovative designs. The firm has just completed the HELEN M. ADERHOLD LEARNING CENTER for Georgia State University. Located on Luckie Street in the historic Fairlie-Poplar District, the new five-story classroom building is a compatible addition to the neighborhood, despite the grumblings of local preservationists who fought against the demolition of some older structures on the block. The facade reveals multiple layers, which complement the historic setting while asserting the new building's presence - conventional brick is "peeled away" at openings to reveal a glossy metal skin. In addition, kudos for the pedestrian-friendly arcade and providing new street-level business spaces. The interior is less successful with its excessive and dizzying array of acoustic ceiling tile - seemingly a concession to budget cuts. "65 Luckie St." less...
There was a time when Atlanta was two colors - black and white - and one flavor - fried. That time is past. Buford Highway is the Atlanta area's own little Ellis Island - of commerce, that is. There's Mexican next to Vietnamese next to Peruvian next to, well, you get the idea. Locals didn't need Censusmore...
There was a time when Atlanta was two colors - black and white - and one flavor - fried. That time is past. Buford Highway is the Atlanta area's own little Ellis Island - of commerce, that is. There's Mexican next to Vietnamese next to Peruvian next to, well, you get the idea. Locals didn't need Census 2000 to tell them the metro area was changing. All they had to do is trek down to Buford Highway and catch a whiff of the air. Those spices ain't from around here. less...
Georgia's new state flag


This garden-inspired California cottage is a little home with big heart.
The first time Julie and Brian O'Keefe walked into their 1950s cottage in the hills above Los Angeles, Julie was ready to walk right back out. "It had absolutely zero character," Julie says. Its 1,300 square feet were a mishmash of dated surfaces, bland architecture, and an uninspired layout. But Brian, who saw potential beneath its plainness, persuaded Julie to put her design eye to work.
Adding a Dutch door to the front entry was the very first change the O'Keefes made after they purchased the home. "When open, it just begs you to come in," Julie says. The willow chairs in the cottage's serene living area are signed by artist Mark Lee, and have belonged to the O'Keefes for nearly 30 years. "I've always kept them inside so I'll have them forever," Julie says.


text:
CelebrityMarch 20, 2015
5 things to talk about on the course: March Madness, "The Jinx," and Ellie Kemper
Alex Myers
From sports to TV to politics (OK, so mostly the first two), we offer five hot topics that are sure to liven up your round of golf:
1. March Madness: There's a tendency to overreact to things that just happened, but Thursday might have been the best day in the history of sports. The upsets. The buzzer beaters. The excited announcers not named Reggie Miller (Man, is he bad on TV). Yeah, yeah, your bracket got ruined, but wasn't it worth seeing all that craziness? Oh, and the injured Georgia State coach diving off his chair as his son hits a ridiculous game-winning three to upset Baylor might be the most March Madness thing ever.
Related: Vote in our ultimate golf excuse bracket
2. "The Jinx": I raved about this HBO documentary last week before the finale -- and then all hell broke lose. In case you missed it, I won't spoil it for you, but let's just say the chilling audio from Robert Durst at the end will leave you stunned. And now there's controversy surrounding the director and producer over the timeline of the film. Regardless of how they put it all together, though, it was riveting and a must-watch if you haven't already.
3. "Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt": After finishing "The Jinx," I needed a pick me up and Netflix provided just that with this fantastic new quirky comedy starring Ellie Kemper (Erin from "The Office") and Tituss Burgess, who are both breakout stars. If it feels like "30 Rock," that's because Tina Fey is a co-creator and writer. She's also one of the many great cameos (Hank from "Breaking Bad" is featured prominently in the season's funniest episode). Oh, and the intro mashup/theme song is one of the catchiest things I've ever heard:
4. Chris Borland: The 24-year-old linebacker for the San Francisco 49ers surprised everyone by retiring Monday due to brain-related concerns. That sparked the latest debate over whether or not this is the beginning of the end of the NFL. That kind of thinking seems to be a bit premature, but we can only hope cases like this lead to more awareness about concussions and head trauma. Borland may have walked away from millions, but at least he did it while he was still of sound mind.
Related: NFL stars who love their golf
5. Arnold Palmer: Speaking of still being of sound mind and still being a total boss, Palmer is hosting his annual tournament this week at Bay Hill. He also dropped quite the zinger in a press conference when asked about his recent phone call from Tiger Woods. "Who ever told you it was an hour is full of sh*t." It's been more than 42 years since he won a PGA Tour event and yet Palmer made more than $40 million in endorsements last year. Yep, it's still good to be The King.
Follow @AlexMyers3


text:
A kombinált ciklus olyan termodinamikai körfolyamat, amely több egyszerű körfolyamatból áll. A hőerőgépek a tüzelőanyag elégetéséből származó hőenergiának csak egy részét (általában 50%-nál kevesebbet) képes villamos energiává alakítani. A hőenergia többi része veszteségként a környezetet melegíti. Két vagy több megfelelően választott körfolyamat, például a Brayton–Joule-ciklus és a Rankine-ciklus együttműködése a rendszer összhatásfokát javítja.

A kombinált ciklusú erőműben egy gázturbina-generátor egység elektromos áramot termel, a gázturbinából távozó még meleg gázzal pedig, amely egyébként veszteséget jelentene, gőzt termelnek; ez gőzturbinát hajt, amely egy másik generátorral áramot termeltet. Ezzel a megoldással az elektromos energiatermelés összhatásfoka javul. Európában és Észak-Amerikában a legtöbb új gáztüzelésű erőmű ebben a rendszerben épül.

A hőerőművek többségében az elsődleges energiaforrás (a tüzelőanyag), elégetéséből származó nagyhőmérsékletű hőenergia, ebből egyrészt elektromos energiát termel, másrészt alacsony hőmérsékletű hőenergiát bocsát ki. Szabályként megállapítható, hogy minél nagyobb a hőmérsékletkülönbség a bevezetett és elvezetett hő között, annál jobb lesz az erőmű hatásfoka (lásd Carnot-ciklus). Ezt a célt a Rankine-ciklus (gőz) és Brayton–Joule-ciklus (gáz) kombinációjával érik el. Ilyen megoldásokat alkalmaznak hajók hajtására is, ezt kombinált gáz- és gőzturbina-hajtásnak, vagy angol rövidítéssel COGAS-nak hívják.

Konstrukciós elvek
Egy gőzturbinás erőműben a munkaközeg vízgőz. A nagynyomású gőz erős, terjedelmes alkatrészeket kíván. A magas hőmérséklet pedig drága ötvözetek, nikkel és króm alkalmazását teszi szükségessé az olcsó acéllal szemben. Ezek az ötvözetek is gyakorlatilag legfeljebb 655 °C gőzhőmérsékletet tesznek lehetővé, a hőleadás hőmérsékletét pedig a környezet hőmérséklete határozza meg. Ez a két hőmérséklet a kizárólag gőzzel működő erőmű hatásfokát 35-42%-ra korlátozza.

Egy nyitott gázturbina körfolyamat kompresszorból, égőkamrából és turbinából áll. A gázturbinákhoz felhasznált hőálló anyagok mennyisége kicsi (mivel a kis nyomás miatt nincs szükség nagy falvastagságra), és ezért drága anyagok is gazdaságosan felhasználhatók. Az ilyen körfolyamatokban a turbinába belépő gáz hőmérséklete (az égési hőmérséklet) viszonylag magas: 900-1350 °C. A turbinából kilépő gázok hőmérséklete szintén magas: 450-650 °C. Ez a hőmérséklet viszont elég magas ahhoz, hogy egy második vízgőzzel működő Rankine-körfolyamat hőforrásául szolgáljon. A kombinált ciklusú erőművekben a gázturbina kilépő gázait egy gőzfejlesztő hőcserélőbe vezetve 420-580 °C hőmérsékletű frissgőzt fejlesztenek. A Rankine-ciklus kondenzátorát általában folyóból, tóból vagy tengerből nyert vízzel hűtik, vagy hűtőtoronyban lehűtött visszakeringetett hűtővízzel hűtik. Ennek hőmérséklete 35 °C körüli.

A kombinált erőművek hatásfoka
A gázturbinás és gőzturbinás ciklusok kombinációjával magas hőbevezetési hőmérsékletet és alacsony hőleadási hőmérsékletet lehet elérni. A hasonló hőmérsékletekkel dolgozó Carnot-körfolyamat hatásfoka igen kedvező. A valóságos körfolyamatoké természetesen kisebb a Carnot-ciklus ideális hatásfokánál, de így is nagyobb, mint külön-külön a gázturbinás és gőzturbinás ciklusé. Gyakorlatilag, ha az erőmű csak elektromos energiát szolgáltat, 59% érhető el, hőszolgáltató erőmű esetén pedig, ahol az elektromos energia mellett az erőmű ipari gőzt vagy fűtési melegvizet is kiad, az összhatásfok elérheti a 85%-ot is.

Kiegészítő tüzelés és lapáthűtés
A kombinált erőművet gyakran ellátják a gázturbina után beépített kiegészítő tüzeléssel is, hogy a fejlesztett frissgőz hőmérsékletét vagy mennyiségét megemeljék. Kiegészítő tüzelés nélkül a kombinált erőmű összhatásfoka jobb, azonban a kiegészítő tüzelés lehetővé teszi, hogy az erőmű gyorsabban reagáljon a villamos terhelés ingadozásaira.

Egyes esetekben a gázturbina kilépő gázaiba porlasztanak további tüzelőanyagot. Ez azért lehetséges, mert a gázturbina kilépő gázai tartalmaznak még szabad oxigént. A gázturbina belépő hőmérsékletének felső korlátja szükségessé teszi, hogy az optimális arányoktól eltérő légfelesleggel üzemeltessék a rendszert. Több gázturbinánál a kompresszor által szolgáltatott levegő egy része elkerüli az égésteret, ezzel a turbinalapátokat hűtik.

Kombinált ciklusú erőművek tüzelőanyaga
Tüzelőanyagnak leggyakrabban földgázt használnak, de előfordul olaj, szintetikus gáz vagy más tüzelőanyag is.

Higany mint munkaközeg
Történtek kísérletek arra, hogy két, különböző munkaközeget használó Rankine-körfolyamatot kombináljanak. 1923-tól Hartfordban (Connecticut állam, Amerikai Egyesült Államok) üzemelt egy olyan hőerőmű, melynek első körfolyamata higanyt használt munkaközegként. A higany kritikus hőmérséklete 1000 °C felett van, telített gőzének nyomása 600 °C-on sem haladja meg az 50 bart. Az erőmű első turbinájából 224 °C-on kilépő higany egy hőcserélőben lecsapódik, és elpárologtatja a második körfolyamat munkaközegét, a vizet. Mindkét körfolyamatban a nyomás mérsékelt értéken marad, ami a konstrukciót olcsóbbá és rugalmasabbá teszi. Gond a higany magas árával és (még gőzeiben is) mérgező voltával van, ezért ez a hatásfokjavító módszer nem terjedt el.

Nyíregyházi Kombinált Ciklusú Erőmű
Magyarországon 2007-ben helyezték üzembe a csúcstechnológiájú Nyíregyházi Kombinált Ciklusú Erőmű Kft. telephelyén az első ilyen hazai erőművet. Az erőmű 47 MW villamos és 68 MW hőteljesítményt képes leadni igen kis kén-dioxid- és nitrogén-oxid-kibocsátás mellett. 37 dB-es zajszintje lehetővé tette, hogy Nyíregyháza belterületén építsék fel. Hatásfoka 89%.
 A gázturbina generátorának kapocsteljesítménye maximum 32,7 MW
 A gőzturbina generátorának kapocsteljesítménye maximum 22,3 MW
 Névleges kiadott teljesítmény 47,1 MW
 Maximális hőkiadás 68 MW, ebből
 forróvíz 64 MW
 gőz maximum 60 t/h
A gázturbina Hitachi gyártmányú 7280 1/min fordulatszámú gép. A 17 fokozatú axiális kompresszor 28 bar nyomásra sűríti a levegőt, az égéstér után a gáz hőmérséklete 1300 °C, amely 3 fokozatú gázturbinát hajt; a hozzá kapcsolt generátort a Siemens gyártotta.
A gőzturbina Siemens SST 600 típusú, 9400 1/min fordulatszámú gép, fogaskerekes reduktoron keresztül hajtja meg az ugyancsak Siemens gyártmányú generátort. A gőzturbina frissgőz-paraméterei: 45 bar/497 °C,

Jegyzetek

További információk
 Hunstown: Írország legjobb hatásfokú erőműve @ Siemens Power Generation website
 Földgáztüzelésű kombinált ciklusú gázturbinás erőművek Northwest Power Planning Council, New Resource Characterization for the Fifth Power Plan, 2002. aug.
 Kombinált ciklusú napenergia erőmű
 Time, 1942. február 9.

Termodinamikai körfolyamatok


text:
package org.slc.sli.modeling.uml;

import org.junit.Before;
import org.junit.Test;
import org.slc.sli.modeling.uml.index.DefaultVisitor;
import org.slc.sli.modeling.uml.utils.TestUtils;

import static org.junit.Assert.assertEquals;

/**
 * JUnit test for Range
 * @author chung
 */
public class RangeTest {

    private Range range;
    private Visitor visitor = new DefaultVisitor();

    @Before
    public void setup() {
        range = new Range(Occurs.ZERO, Occurs.ONE, TestUtils.EMPTY_TAGGED_VALUES);
    }

    @Test
    public void testAccept() {
        range.accept(visitor);
    }

    @Test
    public void testGetLower() {
        assertEquals(Occurs.ZERO, range.getLower());
    }

    @Test
    public void testGetUpper() {
        assertEquals(Occurs.ONE, range.getUpper());
    }

    @Test
    public void testToString() {
        String string1 = range.toString();
        String string2 = "{lower: " + Occurs.ZERO + ", upper: " + Occurs.ONE + "}";
        assertEquals(string2, string1);
    }

}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
Q: problem with print command involving mixing integer and strings I want to print a list of ordinal numbers with the appropriate suffix attached (i.e 1st, 2nd...). The issue seems to be with the print command. As you can see below, I've commented all IF blocks except for the first to try troubleshooting.  Thanks.
ord_nums = [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9]
for ord_num in ord_nums:
    if (ord_num == 1):
        print(ord_num + "st")
    elif (ord_num == 2):
        print(ord_num) #+ "nd")
    elif (ord_num == 3):
        print (ord_num) #+ "rd")
    else:
        print(ord_num) #+ "th")

A: cast it to a string first before adding; you are trying to add an int to a string
print(str(ord_num) + "st")

A: You may have to cast each integer into string in the print statement. For example -
print(str(ord_num) + "st")

A: I'm guessing you got a TypeError for adding a str and an int. The correct code would be print(str(ord_num) + "st").

A: To mix types in a string to print, you can use a formatted string by using f"str" and put the variables you want to print between brackets like this :
a = 3
b = "b"

print(f"This is a number : {a}")
print(f"This is a string : {b}")


But that is not to say that everyone is happy with the change. In order to make the facility more financially stable, the private company plans to cut employee benefits. It is unclear if or how such a move will affect the home's ability to recruit and retain qualified caregivers. But union leaders were understandably angry at the switch, warning of negative ramifications as a result of the pension cuts and health benefit reductions.
One positive sign is that NY health department officials note that other homes owned by the same company receive high marks for care quality. Obviously the hope is that that track record bears out in this case.
This latest move in Syracuse is just another reminder of the trend away from publicly owned long-term care facilities in New York. The change is pushed by many demands and is itself just one part of new nationwide approaches to elder care. Nursing homes overall are falling out of fashion, as many seniors prefer to age in place and receive at-home support for as long as possible. For help understanding elder care options in your own case or that of a family member, consider contacting our NY elder law attorneys today.


This wall shelf unit is finished in off white with a natural wooden top . It has 2 shelves and handy coat hooks providing plenty of storage space and would be ideal in any kitchen, dining room or hallway. This wall shelf unit is perfect for displaying your items without taking up any floor space.. It has a shabby chic/distressed finish and features detailing on the sides, it comes ready assembled so you can enjoy it straight away. Features: 2 x shelves 5 x coat hooks Shabby chic finish Fully assembled Please Note: A range of furniture is available matching this item such as a TV entertainment unit, tall storage unit, bookshelf, glass cabinet dresser, sideboard with shelves, bedside end table, chest of drawers and coffee table. Materials: MDF with paulownia veneer Metal handles Dimensions: H48 x W62 x D10.5cm Weight: 3.6kg Assembly Required: Fully assembled Delivery Information: This item should take 3-5 working days for delivery. A signature will be required upon delivery.


Bob-omb Reverse is a multiplayer Table minigame in New Super Mario Bros. The minigame is very similar to Reversi but this game is playable for more than two players and has a six-by-six board. The music played here is a cover of the Toad House and P Switch music from Super Mario Bros. 3.
Bowser Jr. is on the top screen with Bob-ombs and a board of 6 x 6 squares is on the bottom. The game randomly chooses which player starts. Each player has to surround the Bob-ombs of his opponents by dropping a Bob-omb in the squares, each surrounded Bob-omb turns to the color of the player who played last. If all of someone's Bob-ombs are captured, they turn black and cannot win. The game automatically shows to the players which squares can be used for dropping Bob-ombs. If a player has no possibility, the game skips their turn. The game finishes when all squares are taken, or when there are no valid moves for any players. The player who has the most Bob-ombs wins.
This page was last edited on December 3, 2018, at 02:15.


class="post-template-default single single-post postid-370221 single-format-standard group-blog masthead-fixed full-width singular wpb-js-composer js-comp-ver-5.7 vc_responsive"
James Palmer Jr. and Glynn Watson Jr. combined for 55 points Tuesday night in East Lansing, but No. 9 Michigan State used a hot-shooting first half to hold off the Huskers, 91-76, at the Breslin Center.
Palmer tied his season high with 30 points – his second 30-point effort of the year and third of his career – while Watson tied his season high with 25 points. But the effort of Nebraska's seniors was matched by a pair of Michigan State seniors, as Kenny Goins scored a career-high 24 points for the Spartans and Matt McQuaid added a career-high 22 points.
Michigan State, which had four players in double figures, shot 53 percent from the field and the Spartans were 12-of-24 from the 3-point line. Nebraska knocked down 10 3-pointers, but the Huskers shot only 37 percent overall and were just 14-of-24 from the free-throw line. Palmer and Watson combined for nine of Nebraska's 10 threes, while Isaiah Roby had an impressive stat line with 10 points, nine rebounds and five assists.
Nebraska outscored Michigan State 47-44 in the second half, but the Huskers could not overcome an 18-point halftime deficit. Nebraska led five minutes into the game before Michigan State used a 16-2 run to seize control and the Spartans never trailed again, although the Huskers cut a 20-point deficit to as few as eight midway through the second half.
The Spartans were 7-of-8 from the field during the decisive five-minute first-half run, including 3-of-3 from beyond the arc. Over the final 14 minutes of the first half, Michigan State was 13-of-16 from the field, including 7-of-9 from the 3-point line. The Spartans shot 59 percent overall in the half (16-of-27) and were 9-of-14 from long range, in addition to going 6-of-6 at the free-throw line.
Goins was 5-of-5 from the 3-point line in the first half, as he set a career high with 21 points by halftime. Palmer (14) and Watson (10) accounted for 24 of Nebraska's 29 first-half points, but the Huskers were just 10-of-32 from the field in the period.
Watson scored eight points in the first five minutes to give Nebraska an early 10-8 lead. But two minutes later, Michigan State broke the game open with its 19-2 run. The run began with six straight points in less than a minute and ended with 13 consecutive points in a span of 2:21. Following the run, the Spartans had turned a tie game into a 30-14 lead with 8:05 remaining in the half.
After Amir Harris gave Nebraska its first basket in more than four minutes, Michigan State scored five quick points to push the lead to 19. Palmer then scored eight points in the final five minutes of the half, but Nebraska was only able to trim two points off the lead as the Spartans took a 47-29 lead into the locker room.
Watson got Nebraska off to a quick start in the second half as well, scoring five points in the first minute and a half. His layup sparked a 7-0 run that pulled Nebraska to within 12 three minutes into the period. After Michigan State stretched the lead back to 16, the Huskers made six consecutive shots – including a pair of 3-pointers – to cut the lead to eight at 62-54 at the under-12 media timeout.
After Nebraska trimmed a 20-point deficit down to eight, Michigan State responded with a 7-0 run, including a five-point possession that forced a Husker timeout with the Spartans on top 69-55. Nebraska got as close as 11 at the 7:35 mark, but Michigan State pulled away from there even though the Huskers shot 53 percent in the second half. Palmer was 6-of-10 from the field in the second half and scored 16 points in the final 20 minutes, while Watson was 6-of-11 en route to scoring 15 second-half points.
After playing its last two games on the road, Nebraska wraps up the regular season on Sunday at home against Iowa. Tipoff is set for 1 p.m. between the Huskers and Hawkeyes at Pinnacle Bank Arena on BTN, with the Husker Sports Network providing radio coverage.
*-James Palmer Jr. finished with 30 points, matching his season high (also vs. Creighton) and his second 30-point game of the year. His 30 points were a high by a Michigan State opponent this year. It marked Palmer's third career 30-point game.
*- Palmer reached double figures for the 28th time this season and posted his 14th 20-point game of the season. His 14 20-point games are the most since Tyronn Lue had 16 in 1997-98. Palmer moved into 10th place on NU's single-season points list with his performance at Michigan State.
*-Glynn Watson Jr. reached double figures for the 21st time this season with a season-high-tying 25 points. He also had 25 against Purdue on Feb. 23. Watson now has 1,422 points, moving past Venson Hamilton (1,416 points) for 12th on Nebraska's career list.
*-With four assists, Watson also moved past Jamar Johnson (355, 1992-94) for eighth place on NU's career assist list, as Watson now has 358 career assists.
*-Amir Harris made his first career start tonight, as Thomas Allen (ankle) did not play. Tonight marked the sixth different lineup the Huskers have used this season.
*-Michigan State was the fifth opponent in the last 55 games to shoot over 50 percent against the Huskers dating back to last season.


text:
ESA's National Training School Celebrates 25th Anniversary at ESX 2010
Did your email system distort this message? See it online.
ESA Media ContactsLaurie A. KnoxDirector of Communications,Public Relations & MarketingPhone: (888) 447-1689 ext. 209E-mail:LaurieK@alarm.orgJason SmithCommunications SpecialistPhone: (888) 447-1689 ext. 210E-mail: JasonS@alarm.org
ESA'S NATIONAL TRAINING SCHOOL CELEBRATES25TH ANNIVERSARY AT ESX 2010Premier industry training organization to honor instructors and 40,000+ alumni while promoting its broadening course and certification line-up and upgraded delivery system at top event for integrators and central stations.
Irving, Texas, May 10, 2010 – The Electronic Security Association's (ESA) National Training School (NTS) will celebrate its 25th year of service and leadership at the Electronic Security Expo (ESX), June 15-17 in Pittsburgh, PA.
NTS was founded in 1985 and has trained more than 40,000 industry professionals since its inception. NTS's Certified Alarm/Security Technician – Level 1 course and certification is the most widely recognized credential for licensing of installation company personnel in the United States. In addition, NTS's broadening line-up of courses and certifications in video surveillance, electronic access control, fire, and intrusion detection are increasingly recognized by regulating authorities, end-users and employers as indicators of proficiency and professionalism.
At ESX, NTS will reach out to all attendees to increase awareness of its courses, certifications and training delivery systems. NTS offers more than 200 classroom opportunities per year, plus online and private class options. NTS will also honor past and present instructors and course subject matter experts with a champagne toast on Wed., June 16 at 5:30PM in the ESA Booth #301. Media are invited to meet with ESA leaders for insights on NTS immediately after the toast.
"NTS is perhaps the most vital way ESA delivers value to its members and the industry as a whole," said Michael A. Miller, president of ESA. "We're proud of what we've accomplished over the last 25 years and even more excited about NTS's present and future. Our participation and celebration at ESX presents an opportunity for us to recognize the past and build enthusiasm for what's on the horizon."
For more information on attending ESX, visit www.esxweb.org or call 877-628-9558.
ABOUT ESA's National Training School
Founded in 1985 to meet the increasing need for standardized training in the electronic life safety, security and systems industry, the National Training School (NTS) continues to develop curricula necessary to meet the growing complexities of the alarm industry and address the changing needs of its members. Offering more diverse training than any other association, NTS provides students the choice of traditional classroom instruction or online training. NTS's education and certification programs for security and fire alarm technicians assure competence in those who sell, monitor, install and service electronic systems by being the most recognized training in states with licensing requirements, offering more than 2,500 online business courses, certifying thousands of technicians and partnering with industry experts to offer training and core courses.
Formerly the NBFAA, the Electronic Security Association (ESA) is the largest and longest established trade association representing the electronic life safety and security industry. Member companies install, integrate and monitor intrusion and fire detection, video surveillance and electronic access control systems for commercial, residential, industrial and governmental clients. In cooperation with an alliance of chapter associations, ESA provides technical and management training, government advocacy and delivers information, advice, tools, and services that members use to grow their businesses and prosper. ESA may be reached at (888) 447-1689 or on the Web at www.ESAweb.org.
You are receiving this press release as a courtesy of the Electronic Security Association (ESA). If you do not wish to receive future news releases, please click on the SafeUnsubscribe link at the bottom of the e-mail or simply reply with "REMOVE" in the subject line. If you prefer to receive information in a different format, or as an attachment, or if you need additional information, please contact the Communications Department.
Electronic Security Association2300 Valley View Lane, Suite 230 • Irving, TX 75062Toll Free (888) 447-1689 • Local (214) 260-5970 • Fax (214) 260-5979


text:
Franklin Growth Allocation Fund - R6
Franklin Growth Allocation Fund
Portfolio Statistics
Total Fund AssetsAs of 10/31/2019 (updated monthly)
$1,251.5 (M)
Net Assets - Class R6 As of 12/31/2019 (updated monthly)
$4.8 (M)
P/B RatioAs of 03/31/2016 (updated monthly)
Positions As of 12/31/2019
Total Positions
Portfolio Holdings Report
All Retail Fund Holdings Reports
Asset AllocationAs of 12/31/2019
[value]
Cash & Cash Equivalents
TOP TEN HOLDINGSAs of 12/31/2019
[holdings-table-heading]
Franklin Growth Fund, Class R6
Franklin LibertyQ U.S. Equity ETF
Franklin U.S. Core Equity (IU) Fund
Franklin Liberty U.S. Core Bond ETF
Franklin Rising Dividends Fund, Class R6
Franklin International Core Equity (IU) Fund
Franklin Emerging Market Core Equity (IU) Fund
Templeton Foreign Fund, Class R6
Franklin International Growth Fund, Class R6
Franklin Low Duration Total Return Fund, Class R6
The Gross Expense Ratio does not include an expense reduction contractually guaranteed through 4/30/20. Fund investment results reflect the fee reduction; without this reduction, the results would have been lower. Please see the prospectus for additional information.
As of January 1, 2013, the Fund changed its target allocations, with short-term investments (formerly a targeted allocation of 5%) now combined into the fixed income fund target allocation; such a change can impact performance.
Effective May 1, 2013, the fund began offering Class R6 shares. Performance quotations have been calculated as follows: (a) for periods prior to May 1, 2013, a restated figure is used based on the fund's Advisor Class/Class Z performance, adjusted to take into account differences in class specific operating expenses and (b) for periods after May 1, 2013, actual Class R6 performance is used, reflecting all charges and fees applicable to that class.
A measure of the fund's volatility relative to the market, as represented by the Blended Benchmark. Effective January 1, 2015, the Blended Benchmark changed to 80% MSCI AC World Index and 20% Barclays Multiverse Index. From January 1, 2013 - December 31, 2014, the Blended Benchmark comprised of 56% S&P 500 Index, 24% MSCI EAFE Index and 20% Barclays U.S. Aggregate Index. Prior to January 1, 2013, the Blended Benchmark was comprised of 56% S&P 500 Index, 24% MSCI EAFE Index, 15% Barclays U.S. Aggregate Index and 5% Payden and Rygel 90 Day T-Bill Index. A beta greater than 1.00 indicates volatility greater than the market. Based on the 3-year period ended as of the date of the calculation.
Effective January 1, 2015, the Blended Benchmark changed to 80% MSCI AC World Index and 20% Barclays Multiverse Index. From January 1, 2013 - December 31, 2014, the Blended Benchmark comprised of 56% S&P 500 Index, 24% MSCI EAFE Index and 20% Barclays U.S. Aggregate Index. Prior to January 1, 2013, the Blended Benchmark was comprised of 56% S&P 500 Index, 24% MSCI EAFE Index, 15% Barclays U.S. Aggregate Index and 5% Payden and Rygel 90 Day T-Bill Index. 100 equals perfect correlation to the index. Based on the 3-year period ended as of the date of the calculation. Indices are unmanaged and one cannot invest directly in them.


NPIF – Maven Equity Finance, part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund, managed by Maven Capital Partners ("Maven"), one of the UK's most active SME investors has invested £750,000, as part of a £1m investment round, in Airtime Rewards Ltd ("Airtime").
Manchester based Airtime is an innovative digital customer loyalty programme which enables shoppers to be rewarded, with a unique reward currency, that can be converted into a monetary credit for their mobile phone or for additional mobile data. Airtime will use the funding to expand the business by strengthening its sales and customer services functions, as well as implement further developments to its infrastructure and market-disruptive technology platform.
Established by two serial entrepreneurs, Adam Ward and Josh Graham, Airtime's disruptive technology solution removes the need to carry multiple loyalty cards and instead intelligently capitalises on two of the most commonly carried items – an individual's mobile phone and their bank card. This has created a linear, and unobtrusive loyalty scheme which provides instant rewards, at no inconvenience, for the customer. Airtime effectively removes the need for multiple loyalty cards, cashback accounts or promo codes, and instead rewards customers through everyday transactions made on their debit or credit cards.
With many recognised retail chains already signed up, such as Waitrose, Missguided and Sunglass Hut, the solution rewards members every time they transact with their linked payment cards. Instead of collecting points, consumers receive a monetary credit back to their mobile account or can opt to take additional mobile phone data.
Airtime has agreements in place with all of the UK's major mobile network operators; the company's technology has been integrated into global payment schemes such as Visa and MasterCard. In addition, Telefonica is a strategic partner and an early investor in Airtime Rewards and has also participated in this latest investment round. Airtime's proposition benefits all parties by providing a simple and tangible way for customers to earn rewards for purchases, while enabling retailers and mobile phone operators to capitalise on increased customer spend and frequency of visit.
There are a number of businesses that operate in the loyalty space but none of these offer a universal mobile digital currency as a reward offering. Most are simply based around a traditional loyalty card and points collection system of which have been improved via 'wallet' technology; however, these do not offer a unique digital currency that can be spent anywhere like Airtime. In addition, forthcoming regulations including the Open Banking and PSD2 initiatives will enable Airtime to expand its services outside of the UK with only minimal feature changes, facilitating entry to a significant new market.
Maven was appointed manager of the £57.5 million equity fund in February 2017, part of the £400 million Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund, a partnership between the British Business Bank, ten Local Enterprise Partnerships in the North of England, the European Investment Bank and the European Regional Development Fund. NPIF – Maven Equity Finance is now supporting the growth aspirations of high-potential SMEs across Lancashire, Greater Manchester, Liverpool, Cumbria and Cheshire.
Maven Capital Partners UK LLP is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, Firm Reference Number 495929.
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Key Subcommittee Assignments for the 115th Congress Announced
House Democrats released membership rosters for key subcommittees that have jurisdiction over housing programs. Representative Nita Lowey (D-NY), the ranking member of the Appropriations Committee, announced who will serve on the Transportation-HUD and Agriculture Subcommittees, while Representative Maxine Waters (D-CA), the top Democrat on the Financial Services Committee, announced the members of the Housing and Insurance Subcommittee. With these announcements, the membership rosters for these subcommittees are set.
Members of the House Appropriations Transportation-HUD Subcommittee
Republicans: Chair Mario Diaz-Balart (FL), Charles Dent (PA), David Joyce (OH), John Culberson (TX), David Young (IA), David Valadao (CA), and Tom Graves (GA).
Democrats: Ranking Member David Price (NC), Mike Quigley (IL), Katherine Clark (MA), and Pete Aguilar (CA).
Members of the House Appropriations Agriculture Subcommittee
Republicans: Chair Robert Aderholt (AL), Kevin Yoder (KS), Tom Rooney (FL), David Valadao (CA), Andy Harris MD (MD), David Young (IA), and Steven Palazzo (MS).
Democrats: Ranking Member Sanford Bishop (GA), Rosa DeLauro (CT), Chellie Pingree (ME), and Mark Pocan (WI).
Members of the House Financial Services Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance
Republicans: Chair Sean Duffy (WI), Dennis Ross (FL), Ed Royce (CA), Steve Pearce (NM), Bill Posey (FL), Blaine Luetkemeyer (MO), Steve Stivers (OH), Randy Hultgren (IL), Keith Rothfus (PA), Lee Zeldin (NY), Dave Trott (MI), Tom MacArthur (NJ), and Ted Budd (NC).
Democrats: Ranking Member Emanuel Cleaver (MO), Nydia Velázquez (NY), Michael Capuano (MA), Daniel Kildee (MI), Joyce Beatty (OH), John Delaney (MD), Ruben Kihuen (NV), Brad Sherman (CA), Wm. "Lacy" Clay (MO), and Stephen Lynch (MA).


Arsene Wenger's hopes of signing long-time target Adrian Rabiot have been given a boost, if reports emerging from France are anything to go by.
The Paris Saint-Germain midfielder has told French outlet Le Figaro, that he is in no rush to discuss a new contract with the Ligue 1 giants.
Rabiot has become a firm fixture in the PSG side over the last four seasons, but his current deal expires in two years.
The Paris-born star made his debut for the capital club aged just 17, and claimed his first cap for France last November.
Wenger has been a known admirer of the midfielder's talents, and Arsenal have again been exposed in that area this season.
After allowing Jack Wilshere to go out on loan, Santi Cazorla has missed most of the season through injury.
Granit Xhaka's indiscipline has also cost the club, while Mohamed Elneny has been away with Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Wenger is highly likely to be under a large amount of pressure to bring in quality players this summer.
Facing a fierce race to land a top-four spot, speculation over the Frenchman's own future at the Emirates has risen to new levels this season.
But in Rabiot, they could sign one of Europe's brightest midfield talents, and that could go a long way to soothing the prickly atmosphere in the red half of north London.
In the meantime however, things may well get worse for Wenger and co, when they head to Bayern Munich.
And we make the Gunners long-outsiders at 11/2 to win the first-leg of their Champions League last-16 clash.