text:
#ifndef _CMD_BEAM_H_
#define _CMD_BEAM_H_
#include "weapon_xml.h"
#include "gfx/mesh.h"
#include "unit_collide.h"
#include "gfx/matrix.h"
#include "gfx/quaternion.h"
#include <vector>
class GFXVertexList;
class Texture;
struct GFXColor;
using std::vector;

class Beam
{
private:
    int sound;
    Transformation local_transformation;
    unsigned int   decal;
    GFXVertexList *vlist;
    LineCollide    CollideInfo;

    unsigned int   numframes;
    float    speed; //lite speed
    float    texturespeed;
    float    curlength;
    float    range;
    float    radialspeed;
    float    curthick;
    float    thickness;
    float    lastthick;
    float    lastlength;
    float    stability;
    float    damagerate;
    float    phasedamage;
    float    rangepenalty;
    float    refire;
    float    refiretime;
    float    texturestretch;
    GFXColor Col;
    enum Impact
    {
        ALIVE   =0,
        IMPACT  =1,
        UNSTABLE=2,
        IMPACTANDUNSTABLE=3
    }; //is it right now blowing the enemy to smitheri
    unsigned char impact;
    bool    listen_to_owner;
    void   *owner; //may be a dead pointer...never dereferenced
    QVector center; //in world coordinates as of last physics frame...
    Vector  direction;

    void RecalculateVertices( const Matrix &trans );
    void CollideHuge( const LineCollide&, Unit *targetToCollideWith, Unit *firer, Unit *superunit );
public:
    void ListenToOwner( bool listen )
    {
        listen_to_owner = listen;
    }
    Beam( const Transformation &trans, const weapon_info &clne, void *own, Unit *firer, int sound );
    void Init( const Transformation &trans, const weapon_info &clne, void *own, Unit *firer );
    ~Beam();
    void RemoveFromSystem( bool eradicate );
    float refireTime();
    QVector GetPosition() const
    {
        return local_transformation.position;
    }
    void SetPosition( const QVector& );
    void SetOrientation( const Vector &p, const Vector &q, const Vector &r );
    void UpdatePhysics( const Transformation &,
                        const Matrix &,
                        class Unit*target,
                        float trackingcone,
                        Unit*targetToCollideWith /*prevent AI friendly fire--speed up app*/,
                        float HeatSink,
                        Unit*firer,
                        Unit*superunit );
    void Draw( const Transformation &, const Matrix &, class Unit*target, float trackingcone );
    void Destabilize()
    {
        impact = UNSTABLE;
    }
    bool Dissolved()
    {
        return curthick == 0;
    }
    bool Ready()
    {
        return curthick == 0 && refiretime > refire;
    }
    bool Collide( class Unit*target, Unit*firer, Unit*superunit /*for cargo*/ );
    static void ProcessDrawQueue();
};
#endif

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
package qj.util;

import java.awt.*;
import java.awt.event.ActionEvent;
import java.awt.event.FocusAdapter;
import java.awt.event.FocusEvent;

import javax.swing.*;
import javax.swing.text.JTextComponent;

import qj.util.swing.SwingLists;

public class SwingUtil4 {
	public static Point getScreenCenterLocation(Window w) {
        Dimension size = w.getSize();
        Toolkit toolkit = Toolkit.getDefaultToolkit();
        double desktopHeight = toolkit.getScreenSize().getHeight();
        double desktopWidth = toolkit.getScreenSize().getWidth();

        // To the left (hack for Ngoc's dual display)
        if (desktopWidth > 1600) {
        	desktopWidth += 1600;
        }
        Point location = new Point();
        location.x = (int)(desktopWidth - size.getWidth()) / 2;
        location.y = (int)(desktopHeight - size.getHeight()) / 2;
        return location;
    }

    public static void main(String[] args) {

        Toolkit toolkit = Toolkit.getDefaultToolkit();
        double desktopHeight = toolkit.getScreenSize().getHeight();
        double desktopWidth = toolkit.getScreenSize().getWidth();

        System.out.println("desktopHeight=" + desktopHeight);
        System.out.println("desktopWidth=" + desktopWidth);
	}

    public static Rectangle getRectangle(Point p1, Point p2) {
		return new Rectangle(Math.min(p1.x, p2.x), Math.min(p1.y, p2.y), Math.abs(p1.x - p2.x), Math.abs(p1.y - p2.y));
	}

	public static Point getRectCenterPoint(Rectangle r) {
		return new Point(r.x + r.width / 2, r.y + r.height/2);
	}

	public static Point getCenterPoint() {
		Toolkit toolkit = Toolkit.getDefaultToolkit();
		double desktopHeight = toolkit.getScreenSize().getHeight();
		double desktopWidth = toolkit.getScreenSize().getWidth();
		return new Point((int)desktopWidth / 2, (int)desktopHeight / 2);
	}

	public static double getDistance(Point p1, Point p2) {
		double x = p1.getX() - p2.getX();
		double y = p1.getY() - p2.getY();
		return Math.sqrt(x*x + y*y);
	}

	public static Point getDirectionPoint(double bearing, Point posFrom, int length) {
		int x = (int) (Math.sin(bearing) * length);
		int y = (int) (Math.cos(bearing) * length);
		return new Point(posFrom.x + x, posFrom.y + y);
	}
//	public static void main(String[] args) {
//		double bearing = Math.toRadians(90);
//		Point posFrom = new Point(0, 0);
//		System.out.println(getDirectionPoint(bearing, posFrom, 150));
//	}
	public static double getBearing(Point posTo, Point posFrom) {
		double x = posTo.getX() - posFrom.getX();
		double y = posTo.getY() - posFrom.getY();

		return Math.atan2(x, y);
	}

    public static void closeOnEscape(final JFrame frame) {
        KeyStroke stroke = KeyStroke.getKeyStroke("ESCAPE");
        Action actionListener = new AbstractAction() {
            public void actionPerformed(ActionEvent actionEvent) {
                frame.setVisible(false);
                frame.dispose();
            }
        };
        JRootPane rootPane = frame.getRootPane();
        InputMap inputMap = rootPane.getInputMap(JComponent.WHEN_IN_FOCUSED_WINDOW);
        inputMap.put(stroke, "ESCAPE");
        rootPane.getActionMap().put("ESCAPE", actionListener);
    }

    public static void focusSelect(final JTextComponent tf) {
		tf.addFocusListener(new FocusAdapter() {public void focusGained(FocusEvent e) {
			tf.selectAll();
		}});
	}

}


text:
Q: How can I move the google-chrome folder from ~/.config to a new location? google-chrome (not chromium) seems to be the main offender in periodically filling up my undersized boot drive.  I'd like to move that directory (not my entire user directory) to a new location.
Is there a 'right' way to do this? How would I go about it?
e.g., from /home/me/.config/google-chrome
to /media/biggerdrive/google-chrome
I considered playing with the various types of links but don't really know enough to be comfortable or to know if that's a workable option.

A: There are several options for relocating folders.  Which is most appropriate to use depends on circumstances.
application-specific configuration
Changing configuration settings from within an application is usually preferred if such a setting exists.  However, many programs are hard coded to use specific folders.
For Google Chrome, there is a command line setting that can be used:
google-chrome --disk-cache-dir="/tmp/chromium"

This change can be made semi-permanent by changing *.desktop files, but
doing so is cumbersome and likely to break.  So a more generic method may be preferred.
symbolic links
This is the approach you mention in your question.  It is the easiest, and the method I would try first in the situation you describe.  Copy or create the new folder at the desired location and use the ln -s command:
ln -s [new-location] [old-location]

This is the only type of link that will work with folders.  Hard links (created with ln without the -s option) work only with files.
Beware, links can be broken if either the target folder or the link itself are moved.
bind mount
A bind mount can be thought of as mounting a folder instead of a partition.  I would use this approach if I wanted several mount points to share a partition, but did not want to use symbolic links.  For instance, if a program misbehaves when encountering symbolic links.

*

*What is a bind mount?
dedicated partition (or drive)
Usually, to prevent the / partition from filling up, a separate /home partition is used.  Also common is to put /var into its own partition.  You can read more here:

*

*What mount points exist on a typical Linux system?
This approach is best taken during a fresh installation of the operating system.  Changing the partition structure of an already running system is cumbersome.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


Every time someone asks me how I met my boyfriend I think: "buckle up and enjoy this story". It is quite a funny and remarkable one, and it made me believe in some sort of "destiny".
It was summer, it was the middle of a heat wave and it was a burning 40°. Sweat was dripping down my spine, and I was just sitting in the garden doing absolutely nothing. I need a pool. Or a cold shower. Anything that cools me down. It was Sunday, and it was my 2nd day in Italy. We just returned from a late lunch at "Larry's" and it was around 4 in the afternoon. My aunt, uncle, myself and a colleague of my uncle's decided to play some Kubb. A game like bowling, where you have to try to hit over blocks by throwing sticks at them. If was fun, we laughed a lot and Joao and I won the first game! We sat down for a little pause and a glass of beer/wine when my uncle got a call from another colleague of him to go and have a beer in town. My uncle declined and said that we were playing Kubb in the garden, but that the colleague was always welcome to join us. So after about 10 min, the other colleague came cycling up the driveway. In a yellow swimming short and a black t-shirt. Not bad, I thought. He got off his bike and approached us. He seemed about my age. He took off his sunglasses. Blue eyes. Little gasp for breath here. He smiled and introduced himself. "Hi, I'm Vittorio, nice to meet you".
I think I was pretty much sold after that moment. Even though I was a 25 year-old woman at the time, I felt like a 14-year old teenager again with the hormones racing down my body. I tried to keep my cool and act normal, so no-one would notice I liked him. And have to say: he was acting a bit weird too. We played another game of Kubb and he joined my aunt and uncle's team. During the game, he did not say 1 word directly to me. Avoided eye-contact. I was beginning to think he liked me too.
My aunt (Ina) invited both colleagues to stay for dinner. Joao couldn't, but Vittorio said he was happy to stay. My heart made a little jump in my chest.
Whilst preparing dinner, I told my aunt that I thought he was cute. She agreed, and said she would try to get as much information out of him as she could! Strange but true: I was too shy to do it myself. Stupid 14-year old teenager. So during dinner, my aunt started questioning him. Where he is from (Italy), where he lived now (Amsterdam), if he had a girlfriend (no). My heart jumped in my chest again.
The very 1st pic of us on the night we met!
The evening continued, my aunt managed to get some information out of him and I just got more and more interested in getting to know him. But I was only here for 3 full more days and the 4th I would leave. How would I do this… After he went home my aunt suggested to my uncle that he should invite Vittorio to the pool party on Tuesday night. And so he did.
Fast forward to Tuesday night, I am wearing a pretty dress and am tagging along to the pool party. I am so very nervous to see Vittorio again. Will we get to talk? Will it be fun? What should we talk about? We are at a table with another colleague and his family, waiting for Vittorio to show. We order drinks, we talk and laugh. We order a second round of drinks. Still no Vittorio. A 3rd, a 4th. Looks like he isn't going to show… And when the night came to an end, he didn't. I was so very disapointed. But ok, at least now I knew he was not interested in me.
The day after I found out that there had been a misunderstanding between my uncle and Vittorio. My uncle invited him to the pool party, but Vittorio was busy doing something else and did not fully understand that he just got invited to a party. Aaah! Ok, no problem. Tonight we would organise a 'goodbye' drink for me in the local pub and he was invited once again.
This time, he did show and boy did he look amazing… A nice red shirt, his hair nicely done with some gel. At first I didn't even recognize him when we bumped into him on the streets. He sat next to me at the table afterwards. It was an amazing evening. We were 7 people, and later that night even 8 when Marco joined. The day after, everyone except for Ina, Petra and me had to work, so around 1 am people started leaving. Ina and Gerben also got up to go home and Ina said to me: I'll leave the backdoor opened, but it's also ok if you decide not to come home *wink*. Errrr yeah, that was not the intention.
So at this point it was just me, Vittorio and Marco. We ordered 1 more round. I had about 4 prosecco's by now and felt pretty tipsy. After the last one, it was already past 2 in the morning and the guys had to go home. I asked Vittorio if he could walk me home because I didn't know the way. 'Oh no problem, Marco said, I will drive you home". Oh no, I will be fine, I replied. But he insisted. Vittorio said he would join us to show the way. So they drove me home. Once arrived, Vittorio got out with me and walked me to the gate. I waited for something to happen, but it didn't. Because of the one too many drinks, I blurted out: how come you didn't make a move? Vittorio stood there and stammered: I'm sorry, I did not know what to do… We exchanged details, and I went to bed with a big smile… The morning after I saw that I had a message from him, apologizing for his 'social awareness of a rock' and if maybe we could start from where we left off once he was back in Amsterdam….
Previous Post What does Labellita stand for?


Stunning perfume bottle in the shape of a beautiful blue starlings egg – holds 25ml volume of your favourite perfume or toilet water with a solid brass lathe turned cap and thread silver plated for that added touch of luxury..
It stands at a height of 63mm 2 3/4 inches) and is made out of Porcelain with beautiful and realistic Starlings blue colouring. It comes with it's own tiny stand so it will sit on any dressing table.
It has been copied from one of Sampson & Mordan's marvelous Victorian novelties famous for their beauty and style.
It is small enough to fit into the tiniest handbag yet remains stylish and elegant.
This makes a wonderful gift for the woman that values her perfume.


Sport Careers have supported former Premier League defender Alan Rogers throughout his budding coaching career. Since becoming a client after leaving Tranmere Rovers, Alan has successfully applied for new jobs at Sligo Rovers and Burnley FC.
Former Premier League player Alan Rogers began working with Sport Careers shortly after leaving his coaching position with Tranmere Rovers. Tranmere was Alan's first involvement in coaching at professional level and we designed him a strong profile to help him get back into work in a full-time capacity.
Alan's Sport Careers CV immediately helped him find a new role as assistant manager at League of Ireland club Sligo Rovers, working alongside fellow Sport Careers client Micky Adams.
After a successful spell in Ireland Sport Careers helped Alan reach the interview stage with a number of job applications.
After being offered several roles int he UK and abroad, Alan accepted an academy coaching role with Premier League club Burnley FC.
Find out more about Alan n his Elite Candidate page.


People everywhere who value justice and dignity should come out openly and endorse Maduro's victory.
(KUALA LAMPUR) - According to media reports, "thousands of opposition supporters" are protesting the result of the recently concluded presidential election in Venezuela. Violence has begun to tarnish the protests. Seven persons have been killed so far.
It is partly because the victory of Nicolas Maduro was so narrow, 50.75% to 48.97% for his rival Henrique Capriles, that Maduro's opponents have been emboldened to challenge the electoral verdict. They are now accusing Maduro and the National Electoral Council(CNE) of fraud and are demanding a full recount.
Independent observers are not convinced that there was electoral fraud. They say that there may have been irregularities here and there but that would not have altered the final outcome. This is why the CNE is insisting that the result is irreversible.
Capriles and his supporters should accept the election result. During the campaign, he had pledged to accept the verdict. He must keep his word.
It is unfortunate in this regard that Capriles's foreign backers, especially the United States' elite, are supporting his demand for a recount. The US elite has a vested interest in denying Maduro his legitimate victory. Since Maduro's predecessor, Hugo Chavez, became President in 1999, the US elite had gone all out to undermine Chavez's Bolivarian Revolution which seeks to uplift the masses and to protect the dignity of the Venezuelan people and the independence of the oil-rich nation. The US elite knows that Maduro is deeply committed to advancing Chavez's struggle for justice at the national, regional and international level.
People everywhere who value justice and dignity should come out openly and endorse Maduro's victory. They should not allow those who do not care for Venezuela's independence and integrity to repudiate the people's will.
International Movement for a Just World (JUST).
The election certainly wasn't a mandate for Manduro. If Chavez hadn't anointed him as his successor, he probably would have lost to Capriles. I see a shaky presidency ahead for Maduro. He just doesn't have the Chavez charisma.


We previously focused on the locomotives used by the Imperial German Army, the so-called Brigadiers, on the European front (see "Prisoners of War," in "Articles"). In search of steam engines during the Memória Ferroviária Project, we found another two locomotives that according to the original project were to have been used by the British Expeditionary Force during the 1914-1918 World War.
During the conflict, the British War Department ordered a series of steam engines from British manufacturers that would be used for transportation between the front lines occupied by British troops.
The specifications were the same as for the armies of France, the Austro-Hungarian Empire and Germany: the locomotives had to be strong, easily repaired, small in size and run on 600 mm-gauge track, the same use by all of the belligerent troops, thus facilitating things when enemy rolling stock was captured. It was a concept use by all of the participants in the war. The Hunslet Engine Co. of Leeds received a significant part of the order, delivering the engines within the deadline required by the English War Department. However, the steam engines arrived too late to actually participate in the conflict. The English government then sold the group of engines at public auction and almost all of the existing builders of steam engines on the British Isles made bids.
Hunslet repurchased a quantity of the locomotives because after 1918 there was great demand for them due to the rebuilding needs of the belligerent states.
The two Hunslet locomotives we found are in a preserved state inside the Parque Pampas Safári theme park at Gravataí, Rio Grande do Sul, together with two passenger cars. With prefix 203, the engine was part of an order of four units, all for 600-mm gauge track, suppled by Hunslet for the builder of the Palmares to Osório Railroad in Rio Grande do Sul, eradicated in the 1960s. The 203 has a 4-6-0T wheelset and still displays the manufacturer's identification plaque: production number 1312, year 1918. It also has a British Defense Department identification tag (ROD No 2340). It did not require any major modifications because the four engines worked on a 600 mm-gauge track under construction at the time, known as the colonial railroad and notable for its low construction cost and few geographical accidents. The railroad's builder also supplied passenger cars manufactured by the Trajano de Medeiros company of Rio de Janeiro, using 4-wheel trucks.
Number 10 was substantially modified from its original manufacturing state.
The history of the other locomotive we found is much more complex. Repurchased by Hunslet, it remained until 1921 within the manufacturer's facilities, awaiting a purchaser. The English company Robert Hudson eventually bought it and sent it to the Usina Leão Utinga sugar mill in Rio Largo, Alagoas, where it was baptized Number 10.
There is conflicting information among specialists regarding the services this Hunslet engine carried out on behalf of Hunslet or Robert Hudson. Some historians affirm Robert Hudson modified the original 600-mm gauge to one-meter and that the rear part of the chassis was reversed. Others state that Hunslet itself modified the original 600 meter-guage for one-meter, addingh a larger coal box, a new cabin, a new seal for the smokestack, which was supported by a wider chassis and a new, larger-capacity boiler. The engine was named "Pão Amarelo." In another modification made by the sugar mill, the locomotive, which had a 4-6-0T wheelset, was changed to 0-6-2T. The Usina Leão Utinga sold No. 10 to Usina Laginha during the 1950s.
The specifications of the two locomotives are shown in the following table.


For those who are brave enough to cut your SIM Card to make them fit in your iPhone 5 here are some simple instructions and diagrams. (Or even cutting your Mini Sim to Fit into your iPhone4/4S.
Download, Print out and make sure what you have printed matches up with the correct dimensions at the bottom of the PDF.
I take no responsibility for cutting your SIM incorrectly or killing your SIM or even if the diagrams are correct.
I just stopped at a Best Buy mobile store to pick up an accessory- when the nice guy asked about my phone, I told him I was upgrading, but that my new micro sim hadn't arrived- he said no worries- went to the back and brought out a device that looked like a single hole punch… it was a micro sim punch! He punched my sim, put it in my iPhone 4S and bingo! I was in business!


text:
A slew of unannounced devices head to India for testing, Galaxy S5 2K variant among them
By Harish J.
Last updated: April 21st, 2014 at 04:18 UTC+01:00
Indian import and export database Zauba has listed over ten unannounced handsets that have made their way into the country for testing. The list of devices includes the oft-rumored Galaxy S5 with a 2K screen (SM-G906S and SM-G906K). The SM-G906S model number is for SK Telecom's version of the handset, and the SM-G906K is for KT. Both carriers are based out of South Korea, so it is feasible that the premium version of the Galaxy S5 will only be available in Samsung's home market initially. Other unannounced devices on the list include the SM-G800F, which is likely the Galaxy S5 Neo variant. The SM-G870A will be the Galaxy S5 Active, which is set to launch sometime next month. The Ativ SE (SM-W750V) is also on the list, along with the SM-Z9005, which is Samsung's first Tizen handset. A Samsung official stated in an interview last week that the manufacturer will launch its first Tizen handset sometime later this quarter.
The list also includes commercially available devices like the SM-T335 (Galaxy Tab 4), SM-G310HN (Galaxy Ace Style), SGH-l187 (Ativ S Neo), SCH-I930 (ATIV Odyssey), SPH-I800 (ATIV S Neo) and the SM-G900R4 (Galaxy S5 US Cellular). It looks like Samsung is working on a new accessory for the SM-V700 (Galaxy Gear), as it is also listed on the database. Another device on the list with a model number SM-G313F is listed as a handset, but there isn't any information available on the device. While most handsets sent to India originated from South Korea, two Galaxy S5 units have been sent from the U.S. Overall, it looks like Samsung is not taking a break after the launch of the Galaxy S5 and is set to launch devices across all price segments.
Phone SM-G800FSM-G906KSM-G906S
Load 3 comments
Samsung rolls out Marshmallow to the Galaxy S5 LTE-A in South Korea
[Updated] Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A (SM-G906S) is getting the Lollipop u …
Samsung working on Android 5.0.1 Lollipop for the Galaxy S5 LTE-A (SM- …
Festival Effect on the Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A shows beautiful drawing …
Comparison: Galaxy S5 LTE-A (SM-G906S) VS. Galaxy S5 (SM-G900F)
By Martin R.
Samsung Galaxy S5 Mini goes up for pre-order in Poland for $625
First Galaxy S5 Mini (SM-G800F) firmware now available online
Pre-order the Galaxy S5 Mini in the UK now
By Daniel G.
SM-A136U
SM-X205
SM-M526B
SM-E426B
SM-A528B
SamMobile Weekly
Best Samsung Phones in January 2022 – Picked by experts
Best Samsung Galaxy Tablets in January 2022
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE review: Super phone, super late
The Galaxy Note 10 experience, two years later
Samsung Galaxy M52 5G review: Sleek design, super performance

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


PARIS – Ugandan music legend Geoffrey Oryema has died in France.
Oryema, 65, who has been living in France for a while died of the cancer of the bones on Friday June 22.
"On behalf of the greater family of Late Erinayo Oryema, I wish to inform you with the deepest sorrow, the sudden loss of my beloved uncle, an internationally renowned Ugandan musician, Geoffrey Oryema that occurred this afternoon in France where he was a resident," said Omony on facebook.
Oryema was a son to Erinayo Wilson Oryema, Uganda's first African Inspector General of Police (IGP) and later the Minister of Lands, Housing and Physical Planning.
Erinayo Wilson Oryema was was brutally murdered during Idi Amini's regime.
Oryema is best known for being the pioneer for all "Live acoustic music.


When Jacki Hoffman-Zehner enrolled in Arts at Okanagan College she checked off the usual suspects (English, Math), and then added economics and psychology.
Little did she know she had hit her career jackpot.
Within six years, she was a rising star in the world of high finance at Goldman Sachs in New York City on her way to becoming the organization's youngest female partner and one of the firm's highest paid women.
That second focus – psychology – took a little longer to emerge but as she navigated through those male-dominated corridors of power she sought out ways to advocate for equity and diversity in the workplace. By the time she left Goldman Sachs 14 years later, she knew she wanted to do something that would help women.
Jacki is CEO of Women Moving Millions, which actively campaigns to have women philanthropists invest their dollars – a million apiece – into supporting women and girls. Today the organization has inspired 180 members to commit more than $260-million in funds to organizations of their choice that primarily serve women and girls. Though based in the United States they have nine Canadian members.
It's all a long way from Jacki's Okanagan roots. She grew up in Rutland as the daughter of a grocer who managed the local Cooper's and later his own grocery store Four-Way Food Market where she worked as a cashier.
Jacki joined her sister Teri in becoming the first generation to attend post-secondary school. Choosing Okanagan College made sense: she could live at home, keep her job, tuition was more affordable, and she could keep up her training as a bodybuilder.
Jacki did so well in fact, that she was easily selected to enter the Commerce Program at the University of British Columbia. She went on to be among the first dozen students to enroll in UBC's new Portfolio Management Program. On graduation, she successfully interviewed with Goldman Sachs and from there things got more and more interesting.
For her efforts she was rewarded and not only was the youngest women to ever make partner in the firm's 100+ year history, but the first female trader.
Jacki continues to have ties to the Okanagan, returning each year to help out at Hoffman's Orchards, her parents' farm in Kelowna with its 10,000 fruit trees.
She credits a supportive family, and a solid education, with her success. But she says there is something more that helps people get what they want out of life.
Finally, it's about finding that intersection between what Jacki calls the 3Ps: passion, purpose and pay.
For more about Jacki and her lessons from Wall Street, read her LinkedIn blog Class of 2013: Be a Superhero!, and her TEDxWomen 2012 talk.


Flyer, Corporate Flyer Templates was posted February 4, 2016 at 9:48 am by jourjour.co . More over Corporate Flyer Templates has viewed by 81 visitor.
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The Astro Orbiter forms a singular icon greeting guests as they enter Tomorrowland. Framed between two rocky outcroppings, placed in front of the branching off of the old Peoplemover track, this attraction simultaneously anchors the head of Tomorrowland, creates a bottleneck at an entry that once did not have one, and provides some wonderful views around The Hub. But at night, after the crowds have died down, it reverts to a landmark. And what a monumental, futuristic one it is!
The Astro Orbiter stands still after midnight.


text:
What we think the PlayStation4 will look like.
The PlayStation 4 will be born into a changing technological world. Here is what it'll do
Since the PlayStation 3 was released back in 2006, the technological world as we knew it has vastly advanced. Big advances with processors, graphics cards, and chips have happened. Wider availability of super-fast broadband has become more common and widespread, which is helping evolve cloud computing. Offline storage is no longer an issue, with 5TB hard-drives likely to be available for less than $100 in the coming years.
Then we had the cloud-gaming service from OnLive back in 2010, which allows low performance computers to connect, and enjoy high performance gaming. Voice and video recognition has also seen massive leaps forward with PS Move, Apple's iPhone's Siri, and the XBOX Kinect.
Enough has happened in the last 5 years to warrant a PlayStation 4. But will Sony hold out a few more years to allow hardware prices to fall and new technologies to develop? When is the best time for Sony to develop the PlayStation 4?
Sony Console Release Dates:
PS1: 1995
PS4: 2013*?
The above data shows that the average time between the releases of previous Sony consoles is 5.5 years. It is expected that Sony will begin talking about the PS4 sometime next year (2012), and will release it in 2013. Which brings the question… why is the gap now likely to be 7 years? The answer is the internet… Sony has been able to evolve the PlayStation 3 with constant updates and changes, luxuries that were never really possible with the PS2 or PS1, which has increased the longevity of the PS3.
Sony's experience in the console market is clear. Below are the lifetime global sales from Sony and competitor consoles:
What we expect from the PlayStation 4:
- Faster Graphics, Processor, and Chips – Quite an obvious advancement, but not one to miss out!
- Built in voice and video recognition – No need for PS Move add-ons, we expect it will all be built in and part of the package.
- Blu-Ray player – Nothing new here! Whilst there will be more focus with internet downloading, disks will still be required and desired!
- OnLive service – The future of gaming is cloud-gaming. We are sure Sony will offer this with the new PS4, and will be one of the biggest advancements.
- New and improved gamepad – The PS3 was going to get one, it didn't! PS4 is likely to offer a larger more-advanced pad. Nintendo's upcoming Wii U might help Sony make a few decisions here.
- iPad Sized device – OK... Maybe note quite! But we expect the PlayStation 4 to be a much smaller console than the PS3. .
- 3D Glasses provided – We expect 3D-gaming to advance. Whilst 3D technology is stuttering and new, it is likely to offer an area for 3D game developers, and 3D gamers.
Could the global recession hold-back the launch of the PlayStation 4? This could be a large factor as to when exactly the console will be launched. Whilst we predict 2013, the global recession has the potential to hold it back longer. Why launch a console when many people can't afford to buy it? This is surely becoming an issue that Sony is closely watching.
Let's finish this article with a quote from Atari founder Nolan Bushnell, whose comments state that next-gen gaming console's PS4 and XBOX 720 will be so similar to each other due to photorealism: "The PS4 and XBOX 720 will be so close to photo realism that it doesn't matter. When both would pump out as-good-as-looking-out-the-window graphics, what would draw developers or gamers to one or the other machine?".
Sony's PS4: what will it be like?


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You are here: Home > Senator Patrick Brazeau says he's the perfect candidate to speak on Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women
Senator Patrick Brazeau says he's the perfect candidate to speak on Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women
Face to Face | October 12, 2016 by Michael Hutchinson | 3 Comments
In Part Two of the Face to Face with Independent Senator Patrick Brazeau, Michael asks him about his fight back from rock bottom, his suicide attempt and the family support that helped bring him back from the brink. They also talk about how the Senator's past charges, and his job at a strip club, affected his credibility when it comes to speaking on the issue of murdered and missing Indigenous Women.
Here's a timeline of the Senator's troubles over the past three years:
December 2012 – Reports of irregular Housing expenses claims sparks deeper look in to individual Senators expense claims.
Brazeau was arrested – in February 2013 — for an incident relating to domestic violence. He was charged with assault and sexual assault.
Due to those charges the Senate suspend Brazeau.
Later that month, the Senate committee of Internal Economy announced that Brazeau and senators Pamela Wallin, Mike Duffy, and Mac Harb, would go through a forensic audit to determine the validity of their expense claims.
Deloitte was tasked with carrying out an independent audit. The audit was tabled in the Senate in May 2013. The accounting company concluded that Brazeau had made no false claims. However, Deloitte reached no conclusions as to whether he met the Senate's definition of primary residence — because there was none.
A Senate's Subcommittee on Living Allowances wrote their own assessment of the situation. Brazeau was ordered to reimburse just over 50 thousand dollars in expense money.
August 2013, the RCMP alleged that Brazeau was wrong to claim his father's home in Maniwaki as his primary residence. If the allegation were true – it would mean Brazeau committed fraud in order to claim a $22,000 a year taxpayer funded housing allowance.
Brazeau was removed from the Conservative caucus — and prevented from sitting in the Senate — although the Senator was still be paid his full salary.
In April 2014 — police allege that Brazeau got drunk and got into an altercation with a woman. He was arrested with new charges of assault, cocaine possession, uttering threats and breach of bail conditions. He has plead — not guilty.
In October 2014, officer found Brazeau sleeping within his car. Brazeau charged with violating bail conditions and intoxicated driving — knife in the vehicle – led to a charge of weapons possession – a violation of bail conditions. Brazeau was court ordered to two months of detox rehabilitation.
In September 2015 — Brazeau plead guilty to simple assault and possessing cocaine as part of a plea bargain — in which he was formally acquitted of sexual assault.
At the end of October 2015, Brazeau was granted an unconditional discharge by the Quebec Court.
However, he remain suspended from the Senate.
As an Independent Senator — Brazeau returned to his Senate seat in September 2016 — after the charges of fraud and breach of trust were withdrawn by the Crown.
Tags: Aboriginal, Assembly of First Nations, Assembly of Indigenous Peoples, Canada, First Nations, Indigenous, Patrick Brazeau, Senate, Senator Brazeau, Suicide
View all posts by Michael Hutchinson →
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3 Responses to "Senator Patrick Brazeau says he's the perfect candidate to speak on Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women"
Laurie Montour October 13, 2016 at 4:56 am #
Shut up already!
Mona Bill October 13, 2016 at 4:08 am #
Brazeua is NOT a perfect candidate to speak on MMIW. I don't know how anyone else feels or what their opinion is but this would be a huge insult to this issue and to all woman, aboriginal or not.
Neal Shannacappo October 13, 2016 at 2:40 am #
How about instead he sits down and keeps his mouth shut. He's done enough to embarrass us all already.
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Today's Englewood is a distinct reflection of its genuine history.
There is still a focus on transportation, education, and the arts. New developments are boosting the area's economy and maintaining the City's distinctive neighborhoods remains an important aspect of planning for Englewood's future.
CityCenter Englewood, built on the old Cinderella City site in 2000, is a national model for mixed-use transit-oriented development (TOD) and Englewood was the first community in Metro Denver to capitalize on the arrival of light rail.
The Englewood area is also a hub for healthcare providers. Swedish Medical Center, a Level 1 Trauma Center, is Denver area's referral center for neurotrauma and is a recognized leader in the treatment of stroke. Another Englewood hospital, Craig Hospital, is consistently rated one of the Top Ten Rehabilitation Hospitals in the country. Many other healthcare providers and specialty clinics are also located in Englewood.
Englewood offers an array of arts and entertainment amenities, like the historic Gothic Theatre, a live-music venue featuring regional and national artists. And the Museum of Outdoor Arts, which has numerous art installations throughout the community and believes in 'making art a part of everyday life.' Englewood's focus on education is also apparent today. The school district includes two high schools, two middle schools, four elementary schools, and early childhood center. The Englewood community's commitment to its schools is signified by the fact that several schools have been recently renovated and the construction of new elementary schools is underway. In addition, there are two private schools serving the community. Englewood prides itself on its quality education.
The same compassion and hometown spirit that existed from the community's beginnings is still evident in Englewood today. Community members actively participate in civic and volunteer opportunities. Englewood has one of the most successful Neighborhood Watch programs in the nation, helping neighbors keep an eye out for one another's safety. And there are many organizations and programs that offer assistance to neighbors who are elderly or disabled.
lazy river — makes a big splash during the summer months.
Given its strategic location, Englewood is highly accessible via highways, recreation trails, light rail, and bus. The multimodal access attracts customers to businesses and it fits well into the active lifestyles of recent arrivals and long-time residents. Not only are Englewood's transportation corridors important for moving people throughout the City, they act as vital employment and retail destinations for residents and visitors. Englewood's walkable downtown and proximity to transit give it a high Walk Score®. The overall Walk Score® in Englewood is 55 but locations near South Broadway in downtown have a particularly high score of 90.
The City of Englewood has a higher percentage of Millennial residents than any other Denver Metro suburb. This influx of new households, combined with a growing need for senior housing, has fueled increased demand for multi-unit housing developments. New residential developments recently built or currently underway include Bell Cherry Hills, Foundry, Oxford Station TOD, Broadway Lofts and Traditions; equating to almost 1,000 units.
Grocery stores, hardware stores, drug stores, even a JC Penney. A few generations ago, South Broadway in Englewood was the typical American Main Street. It was where family businesses passed from one generation to the next and a place the community gathered for celebrations. The businesses along South Broadway continued to thrive as the community grew.
Today, independent businesses and entrepreneurs are leading the renaissance of South Broadway in Englewood. Online shopping has created an entirely new way to purchase most types of goods. The internet hasn't figured out how to sell the experience of meeting friends for a drink at a neighborhood bar before walking down the block to have dinner at a new restaurant in town. But South Broadway has.
Several businesses have even banded together to create a "Final Friday" each month to offer extended hours, live music and art to draw regular and new patrons to South Broadway. The South Broadway of yesteryear provided the basic goods that helped the community grow. The new South Broadway offers the goods and services that provide a connection and experience between the entrepreneurs, shopkeepers and their customers.
Englewood's history, location, accessibility and plans for a vibrant future will continue to ensure that it remains in the center of it all.


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IPL 2019 MI Preview: Backed by big hitters, Mumbai Indians need to get rid of escape act habit
Mumbai Indians are the joint most successful team in IPL history (alongside Chennai Super Kings) but they need to shed their habit of late bloomers to make it four titles.
Written by Rohit Mundayur | Updated: March 26, 2019 3:20:55 pm
Rohit Sharma turned 31 on Monday. (Source: PTI)
Under Sachin Tendulkar, the Mumbai Indians reached the final just once in five years. Under Rohit Sharma, they have won the title thrice. The team, which along with Chennai Super Kings has the most IPL titles, is also notorious for getting off to slow starts in the group stage. This has cost them a spot in the playoffs at times, and supporting this team isn't for the faint-hearted.
Mumbai Indians have a particularly strong batting lineup this season. Captain Rohit Sharma is one of the best in the shortest format. Quinton de Kock has been scoring runs easily in all formats for South Africa of late, although most of his performances have been in home conditions.
Then there are Kieron Pollard and the Pandya brothers, Hardik and Krunal. Ishan Kishan was on fire in the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 trophy, although the IPL will be tougher. Kishan can be expected to play at number three and keep wickets if De Kock is played as a specialist batsman.
Suryakumar Yadav's consistency last season makes him the favourite ahead of anyone else in the squad to fill the number four slot. It won't be a surprise if Yuvraj Singh ends up becoming a backup for Suryakumar. Yuvraj hasn't played too much cricket recently, and his lack of performances for Kings XI Punjab doesn't help his cause.
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Who do you think will win?#CricketMeriJaan #OneFamily @YUVSTRONG12 @krunalpandya24 pic.twitter.com/6vsYqJ6cat
— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) 18 March 2019
Mumbai won't have Bangladesh star Mustafizur Rahman this season, but the bowling attack is still one of the strongest. Jasprit Bumrah has, at various points over the last year, been called the best pacer in the world across formats. His efficiency with the new ball and the death overs is dreaded by batsmen.
Mitchell McClenaghan has been a consistent performer and the team will have to choose between Adam Milne and Jason Behrendorff, who made an impression during the India-Australia ODI series.
Mayank Markande's impressive performances in the Ranji Trophy earned him a national call-up and he seems likely to make it to the starting XI. A rejuvenated Lasith Malinga is making a comeback, and only sharpens the Mumbai attack further.
The core of the Mumbai team is made up of Indian players, many of whom are regulars in international cricket. This allows the team to be flexible with playing foreign players.The team also has multiple players who can be called "match-winners".
Rohit Sharma, Kieron Pollard, Hardik Pandya, Krunal Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah are all players who have proven that they can be depended upon if the team needs big guns in the last over to win the match – with bat or ball.
Indian captain Virat Kohli's warning about his players needing to manage their game time this year could affect Bumrah and Pandya. If India are to go all the way in the World Cup this year, a fully fit Bumrah is of paramount importance. It means that at some point, Mumbai will have to think of a backup for him, but Bumrah has big boots to fill.
Barinder Sran, bought for Rs 3.2 crore, could be a replacement, but Bumrah's absence will hurt Mumbai. Hardik Pandya has been struggling with injury since the 2018 Asia Cup and could not play in the recent series against Australia. In his absence, the balance of the Indian team has gone awry and the Mumbai Indians might have to do without him at some point of the season.
Why they need to be watched
The Mumbai Indians won their first title in 2013. They then finished fourth, won again in 2015, finished fifth in 2016 and won a third time in 2017. Last season, they finished fifth and so fans can't be blamed for thinking this could be their year again.
Opening match: vs Delhi Capitals; 8pm, March 24
Mumbai Indians squad: Rohit Sharma(c), Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Yuvraj Singh, Anmolpreet Singh, Aditya Tare, Siddhesh Lad, Evin Lewis, Quinton de Kock, Hardik Pandya, Krunal Pandya, Pankaj Jaiswal, Anukul Roy, Kieron Pollard, Ben Cutting, Mayank Markande, Rahul Chahar, Lasith Malinga, Jasprit Bumrah, Mitchell McClenaghan, Adam Milne, Jason Behrendorff, Barinder Sran, Rasikh Salam, Jayant Yadav
Rohit MundayurRohit Mundayur is a Sub-Editor (Sports) with IndianExpress.com... read more
IPL 2019 SRH preview: With plenty of firepower, Sunrisers Hyderabad should make the playoffs
IPL 2019 CSK Preview: Chennai Super Kings among favourites to win this year again


Ethiopia took part in the 2016 fifth round of monitoring of effective development cooperation in health. Here are the results and some highlights. A summary of the country multi-stakeholder meeting held to discuss the findings will be available soon.


Sandberg are a Swedish brand creating internationally renowned textile and wallpaper art. Many talented hands are involved in every length and roll that leaves their factory. Ensuring craftsmanship gives them full control over the manufacturing process.


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5 things to know on the Flyers (and prospects) at the holiday break
Mike Yeo
Jordan Hall
December 22, 2021, 11:48 AM ·6 min read
Canadian ice hockey player
5 things to know on the Flyers (and prospects) at the holiday break originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia
With two games postponed this week, the holiday break came early for the Flyers.
If the schedule stays put, Mike Yeo's club will have gone 10 days between games when it resumes play.
Where do the Flyers stand? Who will and won't be available come next week?
Here are five things to know with the Flyers at the holiday hiatus:
The COVID-19 situation
As of Tuesday, the Flyers had three players — Kevin Hayes, Morgan Frost and Max Willman — and two staff members in the NHL's COVID protocol.
The Flyers did not undergo COVID-19 testing Wednesday with the holiday break having officially started. The next time they can test will be Sunday, the day after Christmas.
According to the NHL's COVID protocol document from the start of this season, if a player tests as a confirmed positive but is asymptomatic, he will undergo daily lab-based RT-PCR tests. And if the player has two or more consecutive negative tests, he is eligible to exit his isolation and return as long as it adheres with local health laws.
If a player tests as a confirmed positive and is symptomatic, he must remain out for at least 10 days from when he originally felt symptoms, as well as at least 24 hours from his last fever.
Hayes was pulled at the start of practice Monday. If he tested as a confirmed positive and is symptomatic, he won't be eligible to return to practice. Come the Flyers' first game back next Wednesday in Seattle against the Kraken (10 p.m. ET/NBCSP), it will have been 10 days — if this past Monday is included — of Hayes being out.
Frost was removed during the first period of the Dec. 14 game and has remained out. He'll be eligible to return to practice when the Flyers are back in Voorhees, New Jersey. Willman entered COVID protocol last Friday and missed Saturday's game. He'll be eligible to return to practice at some point before the Flyers face the Kraken.
"I've only texted with all three and all three are doing fine," Yeo said Tuesday before the postponement of the Flyers' game against the Capitals. "Obviously now it's a matter of getting through the 10-day protocol.
"All three guys are doing well, but regardless of how you feel, there's certainly a timeline you have to follow and we'll do that."
As a team, the Flyers will hope for the best when they return for testing after Christmas.
The revised NHL-mandated holiday break is Wednesday through Saturday (Christmas Day). The Flyers then have three days before their first game back. The team's time away from the facility should be good in helping settle the Flyers' COVID-19 situation.
The matchup next Wednesday with Seattle is the opening matchup of a back-to-back road set. The Flyers visit the Sharks on Thursday (10:30 p.m. ET/NBCSP) before the back half of their West Coast trip wraps up against the Kings on New Year's Day Saturday (10:30 p.m. ET/NBCSP) and the Ducks on Tuesday, Jan. 4 (10 p.m. ET/NBCSP).
With the NHL opting out of the 2022 Beijing Olympics, the league will utilize the stretch of Feb. 4-20 to reschedule some of the games that have been postponed because of the coronavirus pandemic.
The Flyers have three games to make up: two at home (Islanders, Capitals) and one on the road (Penguins). They already have games scheduled on Feb. 1, 23, 26 and 28. The Wells Fargo Center currently has nine days open without an event in February.
The Flyers have had a chaotic December. Amid a damaging losing streak, Alain Vigneault and Michel Therrien were fired less than a week into the month. The Flyers' skid reached 10 games in Yeo's first two games as interim head coach.
But Yeo has steadied the waters a bit. The Flyers are on a season-best five-game point streak (4-0-1), a stretch in which they've scored 4.20 goals per game and allowed 2.40.
The Flyers are 12-12-5 overall and 4-2-1 under Yeo. They still have a ways to go with a minus-18 goal differential, the NHL's second-most shots allowed per game (34.6) and the 25th-ranked goals per game figure (2.66). But Yeo has done an admirable job chipping away at the climb considering the circumstances.
"The results have been better, but we still have work to do in terms of getting to where we want to get to as a group," Flyers general manager Chuck Fletcher said Monday. "Certainly everybody's working hard at it. It's not something that's just going to change immediately; it's going to take time and work. We're putting both the time and the work into improving."
Zack Hill/Philadelphia Flyers
Chuck Fletcher and Mike Yeo.
The injuries
The Flyers got Joel Farabee back their last game, a 4-3 OT win Saturday over the Senators. The 21-year-old winger missed the previous seven games with a shoulder injury.
The club is hoping it'll see the return of Derick Brassard after the holiday break. The veteran center has missed 11 of the last 12 games because of a hip issue.
Brassard took part in Tuesday's morning skate and is considered day to day.
"We've got a bit of a long break here that I think there's an opportunity for — especially when you're dealing with what he's dealing with — a little bit of time off should really serve him well," Yeo said Tuesday. "We're hopeful to get him back, but to make a prediction right now, it's a ways out, it's hard to say."
Ryan Ellis has been able to take the ice in his recovery from a lower-body injury. His status still looks like a return around early January. The all-situation defenseman was the Flyers' prized offseason addition and is pivotal to the club's chances this season. He has played only four games thus far.
"Making progress," Fletcher said Monday. "It's still week to week, doing better. He's been skating a little bit, so that's progress. He's feeling better."
The prospects
The 2022 IIHF World Junior Championship gets underway the day after Christmas on the NHL Network.
The Flyers have three prospects competing in the tournament: Elliot Desnoyers (Canada), Emil Andrae (Sweden) and Brian Zanetti (Switzerland).
Desnoyers is the most must-watch player of the Flyers' three prospects, especially given he's on Team Canada. The Flyers are very high on the 2020 fifth-round pick.
The 19-year-old winger plays a pro-like game of puck protection and seeking the net.
"Just a real impressive kid, he's one of those kids you talk to, he'll sit and talk hockey to you all day long," Flyers assistant general manager Brent Flahr said in September. "He's down there, he's talking to the veteran guys, he's learning every day. His work ethic and determination are off the charts."
Here's the schedule for when you can watch the Flyers' three prospects.
Elliot Desnoyers (2020 fifth-rounder), a @HFXMooseheads product who the Flyers are high on, got physical here with Morgan Frost and willed his way to this goal. pic.twitter.com/4vwA4si4dZ
— Jordan Hall (@JHallNBCS) September 26, 2021
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Kalpana Chawla, the first Indian woman in space and an Indian-American astronaut was one of the seven astronauts who lost their lives in the Space Shuttle Columbia disaster on February 1, 2003.
A role model for many young women in India and throughout the world, Kalpana will always be remembered for her incredible journey from Karnal, where she was born, to NASA, where she accomplished her dream of reaching the stars.
After completion of the school from Karnal, Kalpana pursued a course in aeronautical engineering at Punjab Engineering College, Chandigarh. She moved to the United States in 1982 and achieved a degree of Master of Science in aerospace engineering from the University of Texas. She then obtained a doctorate in aerospace engineering from the University of Colorado.
2. In April 1991, She became a naturalized US citizen and applied for the NASA Astronaut Corps.
Kalpana started working at the NASA Ames Research Center in 1988 and joined the Corps in March 1995 after becoming a naturalized US citizen.
Visit here: What Will Be The Future Of India?
3. In 1997, Kalpana Chawla became the first Indian woman and the second Indian person to fly in space.
Her first flight was on Space Shuttle Columbia in 1997 as a primary robotic arm operator and mission specialist. The mission began on November 19, 1997, and Kalpana was a part of a seven-astronaut crew.
4. Her second flight was her last flight.
Kalpana was selected for her second flight in 2000 as a part of the crew of STS-107. The mission got delayed repeatedly and was finally initiated in 2003. The Space Shuttle disintegrated over Texas while trying to re-enter the Earth's atmosphere on February 1, 2003. Over the course of the 16-day flight, the crew completed around 80 experiments.
5. Kalpana was posthumously honored with the Congressional Space Medal of Honor, NASA Distinguished Service Medal, and NASA Space Flight Medal.
6. Kalpana Chawla logged 30 days, 14 hours and 54 minutes in space over the course of two missions.
Hey Buddy!, I found this information for you: "Things to Know About Kalpana Chawla: The First Indian Woman in Space". Here is the website link: http://indiatrendin.com/things-know-kalpana-chawla/. Thank you.


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Art Works Podcast: Taylor Branch
By Josephine Reed
TaylorBranch.jpeg
Taylor Branch by flickr user ellen.w
Taylor Branch - Blog
In this excerpt from the podcast, Branch explains that although the movement's impact on the country is so pervasive, it's barely recognized. [2:19]
In this week's podcast, we mark the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by looking at his extraordinary legacy through the work of author Taylor Branch. Branch is best-known for his landmark trilogy on the Civil Rights era, America in the King Years, which won numerous awards including the Pulitzer Prize and the National Book Critics Circle Award. The 24-year project began with Parting the Waters in 1988, followed by Pillar of Fire ten years later, and closed with At Canaan's Gate in 2007. Taken together, the three volumes amount to much more than a mere biography of the short life of Dr. King. Branch gives us a social and political history of the Civil Rights Movement, the conditions that created it, and the epic struggle that was waged as the country was forced to rethink its concept of democracy. In America in the King Years, Branch persuasively demonstrates that the Civil Rights Movement was the defining political moment in 20th-century U.S. history, with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at its center.
America in the King Years, At Canaan's Gate, biography, Martin Luther King, MLK, National Endowment for the Arts, NEA, Parting the Waters, Pillar of Fire, podcast, Taylor Branch


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Tag Archives: Article 50
Parliament must act quickly to exert influence if it wishes to prevent a 'no deal' Brexit
Posted on June 21, 2019 by The Constitution Unit
In four months' time, the extension to the Article 50 period agreed in April will expire. The UK will have a new Prime Minister by then, although it remains unclear what position they will take if the Commons continues to refuse to approve the Withdrawal Agreement. Jack Simson Caird analyses the legal and political mechanisms available should parliament seek to prevent the next Prime Minister taking the UK out of the EU without a deal.
Boris Johnson has said that if he is the next Prime Minister the UK will leave the EU on 31 October with or without a deal. Theresa May, made the same pledge before the original Article 50 deadline on 29 March. However, after coming under significant pressure from MPs, she did not follow through and sought two extensions from the EU (resulting in the current exit day of 31 October).
Since Theresa May said that she would step down, there has been significant debate over whether the House of Commons could prompt Prime Minister Johnson to avoid 'no deal'. In this post, I argue that MPs could stop a Prime Minister determined to deliver 'no deal' by putting the new leader under extreme pressure to reveal his position on Brexit from the very beginning of his premiership. There is no guarantee that steps taken by parliament to prevent 'no deal' would be legally effective, but the events in the first half of 2019 have shown that parliamentary pressure can result in a shift in the government's position. It is constitutionally unsustainable for a government to pursue a policy which does not have the support of a majority of MPs. This fact will be front and centre from the very moment the new Prime Minister takes over.
Commanding the confidence of the Commons and 'no deal' Brexit
When the Conservative Party appoints a new leader, the next natural step is for Theresa May to go to the Queen and recommend that the MP chosen – likely to be Boris Johnson – is best placed to command the confidence of the Commons and should be appointed Prime Minister. This is usually a constitutional formality. However, unlike when Theresa May was appointed, the next Prime Minister will take over a minority administration. Furthermore, Theresa May resigned after it became clear that there was no prospect of her being able to get a majority for the Brexit deal in the Commons (and because she was not prepared to leave without a deal in the face of opposition from a majority of MPs). In fact, some Conservative MPs have already indicated their potential willingness to vote down a Johnson government if the new Prime Minister sought to pursue 'no deal'. Should such claims become louder in the coming weeks, Theresa May might struggle to give the necessary assurances to the Queen that the person she recommends can command the confidence of a majority of MPs. Even if she does, the new Prime Minister will clearly be in a delicate constitutional situation. Continue reading →
Posted in Brexit, Europe, Parliament	| Tagged Article 50, backbenchers, boris johnson, Brexit, Conservative Party, Cooper Bill, EU Withdrawal Act, fixed-term parliaments act, House of Commons, Jack Simson Caird, John Bercow, judicial review, no deal Brexit, Oliver Letwin, parliament, parliamentary business, Parliamentary privilege, parliamentary procedure, prime minister, Speaker, Theresa May, Withdrawal Act, withdrawal agreement
What role will the UK's MEPs play in the new European Parliament?
Posted on June 7, 2019 by The Constitution Unit
On 23 May, the UK participated in elections to the European Parliament. Now that we know who our MEPs are going to be, the question becomes: with the UK currently set to leave the EU on 31 October, what can they actually do? Simon Usherwood explains how the UK's new MEPs can influence control of both the Parliament and the European Commission, and discusses the potential political consequences of exercising their legal authority.
In all of the hubbub around the European elections, the small matter of what the 73 individuals elected to serve as the UK's Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) will actually do has been somewhat overlooked.
With that in mind, it's useful to consider what MEPs do in both general terms and more specifically on Brexit, as well as the tension between political understandings and legal rights.
A quick refresher
The European Parliament's role in the EU is to represent the popular will, in both making decisions and providing scrutiny of the work of the rest of the organisation. It does that on the basis of being composed of directly elected members and from the powers given to it by the treaties that underpin the EU as a whole.
This role comprises a number of different elements, each involving the 751 MEPs either as a whole or in representative sub-groupings.
The most substantial element is that of being co-legislator. Under the EU's Ordinary Legislative Procedure – which covers most areas of EU decision-making, as the name implies – the Parliament has to agree with the Council of the EU – made up of ministers from the member states – on a piece of legislation in order for it to pass. The EP thus has not only a say, but also a veto, on most EU legislation including matters relating to the budget; and in the other cases it usually has at least some rights of consultation.
The second element is that of oversight. The Parliament's various committees can summon officials and politicians from the other institutions of the EU to appear before them to answer questions about their conduct. Those committees can then produce reports that highlight issues and which can often force problems onto the agenda for action. In extremis, the Parliament has the power to seek the resignation of the entire Commission, the threat of which in 1999 brought about the early end of the Santer Commission. Continue reading →
Posted in Brexit, Europe	| Tagged 2019 European parliament elections, ALDE, Alliance for Liberals and Democrats for Europe, Alternative fur Deutschland, Article 50, Article 50 extension, Brexit, Brexit party, David Cameron, Europe of Freedom and Direct Democracy, European Alliance of People and Nations, European Commission, European Conservatives and Reformists, European Council, European elections, European Parliament, European People's Party, European Union, Green Party, Jean-Claude Juncker, Juncker Commission, Lib Dems, Liberal Democrats, MEPs, Ordinary legislative procedure, President of the European Commission, Rassemblement Nationale, Santer Commission, Simon Usherwood, Socialists and Democrats, Spitzenkandidat, Spitzenkandidaten, UK in a Changing Europe
Brexit and the constitution: seven lessons
The process of exiting the European Union has revealed that the relationship between law and politics was perhaps not as sound as it might once have appeared. Jack Simson Caird believes that we are in the midst of a constitutional moment that has taught us seven key lessons.
Brexit can plausibly be described as a 'constitutional moment'. The decision to leave the EU will shape the UK constitution over the coming decades. Even if the full extent of the constitutional changes that will flow from Brexit are not yet known, future Prime Ministers will be defined (in part, at least) by their ability to oversee successful constitutional reform. The post-referendum period has revealed a great deal about the relationship between the UK's political system and its constitutional framework. Those responsible for changing the constitution moving forward will need to learn the lessons from this tumultuous period.
1. Governing without a majority needs a change of approach
One of the principal causes of the current crisis has been the way in which Theresa May's government approached the task of governing without a majority. In the immediate aftermath of the referendum, members of the government stressed the need to deliver on the referendum result without delay. The overwhelming sentiment was that the government, led by the Prime Minister and her Cabinet, should be left to get on with the task of negotiating a deal: a majoritarian mindset disconnected from the reality of a divided Cabinet and parliament. Instead, the government should have sought to build a majority for its proposed approach to delivering Brexit before it triggered Article 50 (or at the beginning of the 2017 Parliament).
Any future government that wishes to deliver constitutional change without a majority should look to the example of 2010 Coalition government. The coalition agreement struck between the Conservative and Liberal Democrats specified the constitutional changes that the two parties would agree to support. Theresa May's government should have done the same and at the outset sought support for the substance of its approach for delivering Brexit.
2. Identify processes that can help to build consensus
The domestic process by which Brexit was to be delivered was not given sufficient attention early enough. Constitutional change gives rise to cross-cutting issues deserving of a special form of public and parliamentary scrutiny. In the absence of a rock-solid parliamentary majority, a special process needed to be constructed to deliver the constitutional transformation of the scale required by Brexit. The commitment to construct such a process at an early stage would have sent a positive message to other parties – and to the public – that the government was committed to finding a compromise that commanded wide support.
In the absence of a formal agreement with another party, the government could have sought to construct a bespoke process that might have facilitated cross-party support for delivering Brexit.
In the early stages of the process, suggestions that parliament should have more input in the negotiations were rejected on the basis that the government should not have its hands tied. Rather than treating these suggestions as an opportunity to bring MPs onside, they were treated as threats that could derail the process. Theresa May's government only resorted to indicative votes and cross-party talks after the negotiations with the EU finished (and her deal or no deal strategy had failed) which did little to inspire the sense that the desire to engage was genuine.
3. Parliament needs to develop new forms of influence
The Article 50 process has demonstrated that parliament is a powerful constitutional actor. Since the Withdrawal Agreement was published in November 2018, the majorities against the Withdrawal Agreement and against a no deal exit shaped the debate. However, the Article 50 process has also shown that parliament's influence on the substance of treaty negotiations and the legislative process is limited. Over the course of the 2017 parliament, the House of Commons inched its way to more control through innovative uses of parliamentary procedure, such as through business of the House motions and the Humble Address. The problem is that MPs only realised the extent of their power when it was too late. This meant that compromises were put together and agreed in haste. Essentially, backbench MPs made the same mistake as the government by not prioritising their influence over the process at an earlier stage.
4. The values of liberal democracy should be robustly defended
During the Brexit process, parliamentary scrutiny and debate has been characterised by some as anti-democratic. However, one of the central tenets of liberal constitutionalism is that proposals to change the constitution should be subject to scrutiny and debate. Constitutional democracy is in a very difficult place if this scrutiny and debate is not valued and defended. The core of the case for a carefully constructed procedure for constitutional change is that it enhances the democratic legitimacy of the end-product. How can constitutional reformers build the case for properly constructed change, if deliberation itself is undervalued in UK political culture?
The House of Commons and the Civil Service are restricted in their ability to defend their constitutional role by the requirements of impartiality. So, advocates of constitutional democracy need to robustly defend the role that institutions play in empowering citizens through democratic deliberation. No one is suggesting that politicians or institutions should be free from criticism (on the contrary, criticism is critical to their health and development). However, Brexit has highlighted a need for the values that underpin the basic elements of the democratic process to be defended far more vigorously.
5. Reframe the language of constitutional democracy
Prior to the referendum vote, the Vote Leave campaign demonstrated that a constitutional argument could be framed and communicated in a way that could cut through. Restoration of sovereignty ('take back control') was central to the Vote Leave campaign narrative. However, in the post-referendum period, the government has struggled to find a way of communicating the message that leaving the EU with a deal would empower ordinary citizens.
Of course, the reality of constitutional change is more complex than the messaging during the referendum campaign conveyed. However, it is clear that the constitutional ambition of the government was limited by its ability to communicate the value of democratic institutions. Implementing Brexit through radical constitutional change (by, for example, devolving power to English regions) would have required innovative ways of communicating this change to voters – and the government did not have this capacity.
6. Bring law and politics closer together
The Brexit process has exposed a fairly dysfunctional relationship between law and politics in Westminster. Parliamentarians have often been called out for misunderstanding some of the legal fundamentals of the Brexit process. The level of understanding of international law and EU law has been particularly problematic (although this perhaps reflects the limited incentives that parliamentarians have so far had to engage with either of these areas of law). At the same time, it is important to recognise that lawyers are not best equipped to engage with politics. As a result, the Brexit process has often been characterised by a frustratingly circular discourse. To improve the quality of debate over constitutional change, we need to bridge the gap between law and politics.
7. We need politicians that want to build a constitutional consensus
It may be that the UK's constitutional democracy is in such difficulty that it cannot be repaired through piecemeal change. However, a more radical constitutional overhaul (perhaps in the form of a written constitution) will require politicians that are willing to prioritise finding a new constitutional settlement to resolve the post-Brexit divisions. At present, there are very few frontline politicians that prominently advocate constitutional change. It is not a message that seems to garner support.
Professor Jeff King's inaugural lecture – delivered at University College London in April 2018 – persuasively argued that moving towards a written constitution in the UK would provide a means for citizens to take ownership over the UK's constitutional democracy. In order to revitalise constitutional democracy in the UK post-Brexit, political leadership will need to harness this insight and communicate it to the public at large.
This article originally appeared in the June issue of Counsel and is reprinted with permission.
Dr Jack Simson Caird is Senior Research Fellow in Parliaments and the Rule of Law at the Bingham Centre for the Rule of Law. He tweets as @jasimsoncaird.
Posted in Brexit, Devolution, Europe, Parliament	| Tagged 2010 coalition government, Article 50, backbenchers, Bingham Centre, Brexit, Brexit negotiations, Business motions, civil service, coalition agreement, coalition government, conservative-Liberal Democrat government, constitutional reform, devolution, English devolution, House of Commons, humble address, Indicative Vote, indicative votes, Jack Simson Caird, Jeff King, minority government, no deal Brexit, parliamentary scrutiny, Vote Leave, withdrawal agreement, written constitution
The politics of publishing select committee legal advice
Posted on May 23, 2019 by The Constitution Unit
Parliamentary select committees at Westminster are assisted in their work by teams of impartial parliamentary staff who fulfil a variety of functions. This can include the provision of legal advice by parliamentary lawyers. In recent years, some committees have chosen to publish that legal advice. Drawing on their ongoing research, Ben Yong, Greg Davies and Cristina Leston-Bandeira examine the practice of publishing legal advice, the reasons behind it and the potential implications for the work of committees and their advisers.
In 2017, the House of Lords European Union Subcommittee on Financial Affairs took a highly unusual step. It published the advice provided by the then EU Committee legal adviser, Paul Hardy, as part of its inquiry on Brexit and the EU Budget. Hardy argued Article 50 of the Treaty on European Union allowed the UK 'to leave the EU without being liable for outstanding financial obligations under the EU budget' (p.63). The implications of such advice were politically controversial.
But the act of publishing in its entirety the in-house legal advice provided to the committee, and the legal adviser named, also merits serious attention. There is a small but growing trend of select committees at Westminster publishing the legal advice provided to them by the in-house lawyers of parliament ('parliamentary lawyers'). The trend raises a number of questions: why are Westminster select committees publishing in-house legal advice; what does this tell us about the internal dynamics of select committees; and what are the implications of publishing internal advice for the House and parliament? This is the focus of our latest article, 'Tacticians, Stewards and Professionals: The Politics of Publishing Select Committee Legal Advice' (open access from the Journal of Law and Society).
We have been carrying out a bigger project, funded by the Leverhulme Trust, looking at the provision and reception of legal advice to the four legislatures of the UK. We have now interviewed about 75 individuals, of whom approximately 30 work or worked in Westminster.
Why is this happening?
Select committees will sometimes receive legal advice from the in-house legal services of parliament. In the House of Commons, for instance, much of this comes from the Office of Speaker's Counsel: a small group of lawyers who are permanent, impartial House staff, employed to provide legal support and advice to the Houses of Parliament. 'Legal advice' can cover explanation and information to the application of relevant law to a specific set of facts, and any of the various stages in between. We focus on the more formal side of the spectrum. Continue reading →
Posted in Parliament	| Tagged Article 50, Ben Yong, Burns Committee, Committee on Standards and Privileges, Commons clerks, Cristina Leston-Bandeira, EU Committee, EU Scrutiny Committee, Greg Davies, House of Commons, House of Lords, Joint Committee on Human Rights, Leverhulme Trust, Lord Speaker's Committee on the Size of the House of Lords, Lords EU Committee, Lords EU Subcommittee on Financial Affairs, Office of Speakers Counsel, PACAC, parliamentary procedure, Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee, Public Administration Committee, select committees, Women and Equalities Committee
Is there time for another referendum before the new Brexit deadline?
Posted on April 23, 2019 by The Constitution Unit
The last few weeks have been a whirlwind of Brexit news. Campaigners for a no-deal outcome have made themselves heard—as have campaigners for a second vote. But the new Halloween Brexit deadline is just over six months away. This raises the question: is there time to hold another referendum before we leave? And would it be possible to conduct such a vote in a proper manner? Alan Renwick addresses the key questions and concludes that a properly conducted referendum is preferable to a speedy one.
In a report published last autumn, my colleagues and I at the Unit calculated that it takes at least 22 weeks—roughly five months—to hold a referendum in the UK. That allows 11 weeks for the necessary legislation to go through parliament and the Electoral Commission to assess the proposed question, one week to get ready, and ten weeks for the campaign. If parliament started this process today, a vote could be held on 26th September. So long as the wheels were set in motion by the European Parliament elections on 23rd May, a referendum could go ahead on 24th October; the last Thursday that gives time for the result to be declared before the deadline.
So the simple answer to the question posed above is, yes, there is time for a referendum by October.
But does pushing for a referendum at breakneck speed still make sense? Back when we were writing our report, the first question everyone asked was whether a vote could be held before Brexit day on 29th March. Once that timetable had become untenable, the question was whether the ballot could be organised by 23rd May or 30th June, so that the UK would not have to participate in the European Parliament elections. If a vote is being contemplated for September or October, that Rubicon will long have been crossed.
Crucially, EU leaders have signalled that the Halloween deadline will not be final if a decision-making process is ongoing by then. In other words, starting the referendum process could itself provide Britain with more time to deliberate. Businesses are desperate for some kind of resolution. But a well-run referendum would produce a more robust outcome. Taking a little extra time to ensure that would be worthwhile.
Posted in Brexit, Elections and referendums, Europe	| Tagged Alan Renwick, Article 50, Article 50 extension, Brexit, Brexit referendum, digital campaigning, Digital Culture Media and Sport Committee, Electoral Commission, fact-checking, fake news, no deal Brexit, online harms, political advertising, PPERA, preferential voting, second referendum, The Mechanics of a Further Referendum on Brexit, withdrawal agreement
Article 50: two years on
On 29 March, The UK in a Changing Europe published Article 50 two years on, summarising what has happened during the Article 50 process, where we are now, and what might happen in the future. Here, its director Anand Menon offers his own view of how Brexit has been handled since Article 50 was invoked by the government, and offers an insight into some of the topics contained in the report.
Two years on. So little progress made. As metaphors go, watching parliament hold a series of eight votes and fail to muster a majority on any of them was not too bad at all.
And yet, and yet. For all the outward signs of chaos emanating from Westminster, things are moving. It was never going to be easy for MPs to 'take control' of Brexit, if only because all they control even now is the parliamentary diary. Parliament isn't set up to make it easy for MPs to both set their own agenda and make decisions.
Moreover, it strikes me as slightly misguided to criticise the House of Commons for failing to come to a clear decision on Brexit. For on this if on nothing else, our MPs represent us faithfully. Like the public at large, they are deeply divided on the question of leaving the European Union, and therefore – again like us – it is not clear which if any of the possible outcomes a majority of them might agree on. Continue reading →
Posted in Brexit, Devolution, Europe, Parliament	| Tagged alan wager, Anand Menon, Article 50, Article 50 two years on, Brexit, Brexit negotiations, Brexit party, Dan Wincott, Daniel Wincott, devolution, devolved powers, England, English parliament, English Question, House of Commons, House of Lords, meaningful vote, Nicola McEwen, parliament, UK in a Changing Europe
Citizens' assemblies: breaking the Brexit deadlock?
Posted on April 5, 2019 by The Constitution Unit
A week after the original date set for the UK to leave the European Union, there is still no firm plan for how to do so. The Prime Minister has sought a further extension of the Article 50 process, but it remains unclear how the different factions in the House of Commons can be brought together. Jim Gallagher argues that the citizens' assembly process might offer a way around the current impasse.
With parliament unable to agree away forward on Brexit, the only option other than 'no deal' is a long delay for the UK to rethink its approach. Europe is still open to this, but says it needs a 'strong justification'.
Citizens' Assemblies offer a new way to resolve the issue and help unite the country during that period.
A no plan Brexit and broken public trust
The Tory party's search for a quick, simple fix, largely driven by its internal needs, has defined the Europe debate so far. Contrast this with Harold Macmillan's decision to apply for membership in 1961, based on a deep and comprehensive analysis, or Labour's 23 volumes on whether to join the euro. Little wonder Westminster and Whitehall failed to secure a workable agreement, and that few members of the public find it possible to support the options now on the table.
This present deadlock is reason enough to bring the public back into the debate. But, more importantly, we have not just a government unable to lead but a public unwilling to be led. 68% of people now feel none of the main political parties speaks for them. 'Betrayal' and 'treason' are the everyday language of debate. Remain supporters say the referendum was won by lies and stolen data; Leave supporters feel robbed of a clean break with Europe.
A last minute compromise deal, with far-reaching economic and social consequences, conjured up behind closed doors in Westminster, will not get public acceptance from either Remainers or Leavers. People already deeply distrust the Brexit political process. Continue reading →
Posted in Brexit, Europe, Public Engagement and Policy Making	| Tagged Article 50, Article 50 extension, Brexit, Brexit negotiations, citizens' assemblies, Citizens' Assembly on Brexit, Citizens' Assembly on Social Care, deliberative democracy, Further referendum on Brexit, Jim Gallagher, no deal Brexit


Tonight the transit Moon passes through the eighth sign of the zodiac in the constellation Scorpio. Scorpio is a fixed sign in the elemental house of water and is ruled over by the planet Mars and Pluto. People born under this star sign are said to be brave and resourceful, with a penchant for stubbornness and friendship. As the Moon passes through this zodiac it also forms two trine aspects with another two celestial bodies.
In astrology, a trine aspect is formed when planets are 120-degrees apart on the horoscope charts.
Trines are believed to be so-called special angles and symbolise harmonious energies and flows between the bodies in the aspect.
According to astrologer Marina of MarsStar Astrology Insights, you might feel a little bit tense today as a result of the Moon's position in Scorpio.
She said: "We have to be prepared, we have to be more cautious, especially when we communicate with other people, because they can be oversensitive, sometimes there might be trust issues or people might be more suspicious or even more pessimistic.
READ MORE: What does Venus retrograde mean in astrology? Will it affect horoscopes?
These two "beautiful trines" are both in the elemental house of water, which will strengthen your emotions.
The astrologer said you can also use these aspects to bolster your intuition for inner guidance and support.
The two trines will guide you today and point you "in the right direction".
She said: "The trine between the Moon and Mars is very beneficial if you would like to start something or do something, or you need more motivation or even more physical efforts in a certain direction.
"Mars is the planet of confidence and personal will – of course, Mars in Pisces is not in the strongest possible position but then again the important part here is the emotional motivation.
"If you want something because it makes you feel well or because it will support someone else, you can increase your motivation.
On the other hand, the astrologer added, the trine between the Moon and Neptune will help you form emotional bonds with others today.
The astrological aspect will strengthen your intuition, make you feel good on the inside if you help out others and help you connect to someone on a "deep level".
Marina said: "Focus on your emotions, focus on your feelings – things might be quite intense.


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Weaving Community, Sustainability & Style: This is WVN
"There is a sense that emerges from years of experience that our company is in alignment with its dharma to make beautiful clothing that is sustainable and fair trade."
By Karina Mackenzie
Anyone who has been to a Wanderlust Festival knows that there's a palpable sense of community that emerges after four days of mindful adventuring. When you multiply that by the number of events we'd do in a year, and the number of seasons we'd put up the tents… then these connections start to run deep. These familiar faces become family. From teachers to guests, from vendors to our mountain hosts, each year our shared experiences in seeking made us closer.
So, when one of your family members grows legs and is suddenly visible beyond our festival fringes, it's exciting for all of us in the Wanderfam. (See: a bunch of yogis tuning in to The Voice for the first time when our magical musical minstrel, Thunderstorm Artis, was about to take top prize, singing Blackbird and making all of America teary). That's the same feeling I had when I first saw Synergy in Whole Foods. The threads that I'd worn each summer, hosting the Speakeasy at every summer festival, had now found racks beyond our beloved dusty artisan vending, the Kula Market, and were now in the premiere market for conscious consumers in the USA. I was so proud of Kate and Henry.
Who are Kate and Henry? They're the souls behind Synergy Organic Clothing, which has now grown up and become WVN: a certified B Corp that uses Fair Trade factories to create truly beautiful (and sustainable) clothing. Kate began her first apparel business in 1993 when she began selling clothes from her travels in India and Nepal at Grateful Dead concerts. After pivoting to all organic fabrics, she founded Synergy with her husband and business partner, Henry Schwab. WVN is the culmination of nearly three decades of experience building a large-scale women's clothing brand while staying true to the original goal of doing great fashion the right way.
We sat down with Fisher to learn a little more about this evolution, and to talk about how community has played a part in WVN's growth. Sustainable style has inherent challenges, and Fisher has navigated them during the added pressures of a global pandemic. Learn more about how this female founder is making it work.
Wanderlust: The roots of your sustainable clothing journey run deep, and in fact, run through the tapestry of Wanderlust events of yore. Hippie festivals, gatherings about peace and love… to many, those might seem like throwback memories. But in fact, these types of gatherings have been part of many modern brands' growth. Can you tell us a bit about how events that built community around sustainable values played a part in the early years of your brand?
Kate Fisher: Yes, indeed! My original roots in the clothing business actually emerged from selling my wares in the Grateful Dead parking lot! It was an amazing free marketplace to sell in, like a huge traveling music gypsy festival. Soon after that, I started selling at festivals. It was a great way to get our brand out there, build our customer base, and to connect with people who shared our sustainable values. It was also a lot of fun to have festivals as the back drop of our work: we met a lot of great people from all over the country and it helped us to build a great community. Selling at festivals was a great experience for us and it was lovely to see so many small emerging creative businesses being supported by the communities that sprang up at festivals. I still meet people all the time who let me know that they found us at festivals and then became lifelong customers.
WL: Helming a clothing line is a large undertaking, but building a line that, from the ground up, is ecologically-minded and forward thinking is an even more difficult task. What gave you the confidence that you would be able to say true to your roots and yet also manage growth?
KF: Having a great infrastructure in place between our team here in the US, our relationships with our fair trade suppliers in India and Nepal, and our years of experience doing what we do helps us on
every level and on every sized playing field.
There is a sense that emerges from years of experience that "we know what we are doing and how to get it done", and that our company is in alignment with its dharma to make beautiful clothing that is sustainable and fair trade.
So it feels natural to be able to do it at any level and size. It feels similar to how a yoga teacher knows that when they step out to teach a class—that from their experience they innately know how to teach without thinking much about it, no matter whether it is a small intimate class or a huge class at Wanderlust. It is natural at any size.
WL: What does your own personal yoga or meditation practice look like? Are there teachers who have stood out as beacons to you, either because of their skill/insight as teachers, or because of the values etched in their teachings and how they carried themselves in the world?
KF: I have a daily morning meditation practice that I do soon after waking, before my family wakes up. It is a special part of my day that helps me stay centered, aligned, and present for life, no matter
what my day ahead looks like. I then usually have some kind of a movement practice either a shorter yoga and movement practice that usually includes sun salutations, or a longer yoga practice if my day is more spacious. I am also really happy these days to be back in studios taking classes In person a few days a week. I like flowing practices the best. I would say that the teachers who I have been most touched by are Sianna Sherman (I took a lot of her online classes during the pandemic), Janet Stone, Kia Miller (I also love her online platform) and like to weave in breathwork and kriyas into my practice, and Hannah Muse who is local here in Santa Cruz and also has a great online platform.
WL: WVN is a certified B Corp, uses Fair Trade Certified factories, is GOTS certified, As consumers, what types of certifications would you like the average consumer to be more on the lookout for?
KF: Getting all of the certifications that we have and our suppliers have takes time and dedication and follow through to uphold. They are all signs that, as a company, we are committed to making things sustainably and using business as a force of good. I feel like for consumers, being aware of B Corporations is important, as it means that a business is prioritizing people and planet in everything
they do. I feel like for consumers who are buying products that are made overseas, then paying attention to certified Fair Trade is really important. Many people have no idea who made the things they buy, or how or where they are made. Fair Trade means that the people who make the things you buy are paid a fair living wage in a healthy work environment. Certifications such as these help point to things being made thoughtfully. It is a tricky time we are living in when green washing has become so commonplace with buzz words like "sustainable" and "natural" sprinkled into marketing, when it may be just that—marketing, without actual substance.
WL: As a brand, and/or personally, how do you balance the need to sell and scale with the desire to protect the planet and promote conscious consumerism?
KF: Being in the fashion business where there are continuous cycles, it takes extra awareness that we do not " pump" out too much " stuff" on the planet, and that what we create actually enhances life versus sucking the planet. As a starting point we try and be really aware that we work with the most low impact materials and ingredients we can ranging from GMO-free organic cotton seeds, to low impact dyes, and compostable corn packaging. We try our best to reduce our footprint in every way. We also pay attention to the kinds of clothing we make, so that we make high quality clothing that will never go out of style—that will last. We want the pieces we make to enhance the wearers life, so that they become beloved wardrobe staples. But we also need to make decisions at times that puts conscious consumerism at the forefront. For example, we just decided not to make a new fabric for our essential T-shirts even though we want to improve it, because we know we still have inventory left in our current fabric.
Instead of making more 'stuff', we want to make that sure we sell the things we've already made so that every T-shirt finds a home, before we make more. We are also trying to reduce how many different items we make per season, because let's face it—too much clothing is being made every year and we do not want to be a part of the fashion industry problem.
WL: What sets you apart from other sustainable clothing brands, and how does this vision guide your business decisions as we look toward post-pandemic times?
KF: We take a lot of care in how we make our clothing and all aspects of our business. It feels like we are weaving a community and are a bridge between our customers, our products and fabrics, and our
suppliers. We nurture the relationships we have with all of our makers and want our clothing to have a ripple effect on enhancing the lives of those who buy and wear our clothing and the lives of those who are paid fair living wages to make it. On the yoga front we are one of a small group of companies that makes organic cotton clothing designed for yoga and movement. Our movement collection is really soft and comfortable and breathes. And it is plastic free! In the last two years, we have started working with block print fabric that is a deep love of mine, with ancient roots as a textile tradition that goes back thousands of years. Some of our block print dresses take 12 hours just to print the fabric. I love being a part of a slow fashion movement.
My vision for post-pandemic life is that humanity slows down its consumption and pace of life, and that we all start really looking out for one another and for our planet. I can see how much this has already started and I do really think this is a transformative time on the planet and I am hoping and trusting that we will all come out better than before, even if it is choppy seas with a lot of chaos to get us there.
Karina Mackenzie is writer, producer, and wearer of many hats at Wanderlust. As Sr. Director of programming of Wanderlust events, she curates experiences for Wanderlust events as well as the Wanderlust TV platform. and also contributes to editorial content as a writer, content creator, and event experience design.
She served for 5+ years on the board of non-profit, Yoga Foster (now Wellemental), whose mission is to make mindfulness elementary in public schools across America, and volunteered on the Green Wellness committee in Brooklyn public schools.
She now lives in the woods of New England with her two kids and husband, learning (clumsily) how to lean into country life.