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Thigpen Christmas Classic At Vidalia High
Courtesy of VHS
The 7th Annual Paul Thigpen Automotive Group Christmas Classic will get underway Tuesday, December 27, at Parsons- Reid Gymnasium on the campus of Vidalia High School. 20 teams representing 13 schools from around southeast Georgia and Florida will play 23 games over three days, with Vidalia High School serving as the host school.
"Coach Dalley always brings in quality teams, which creates some exciting matchups, and this year is no different. We are excited to have this group of great athletes come to Vidalia and participate in the tournament,' said Paul Thigpen of The Paul Thigpen Automotive Group. "Coach Dalley and his staff and volunteers do a great job running the tournament and ensuring everyone has an enjoyable time.'
The tournament gets underway at 11:00 on the 27th, with the Calvary Boys taking on ECI. Each day will end with the Vidalia teams playing the last game of the day at 6:30 & 8:00 p.m. the first two days and 7:30 & 9:00 p.m. on Thursday.
Vidalia Head Basketball Coach Tommy Dalley says that this year's field is not only the largest in the history of the event but also may be the most talented. "The field for this year's Christmas Classic is absolutely loaded with talented teams for both girls and boys. We have the largest number of area teams in the tournament that we have ever had, and we have some of the best teams from South Georgia and Florida that you can ask for. Calvary Day just beat the number one team in Savannah ( Johnson) over the weekend. Then throw in Coffee, Glynn Academy, as well as Paxon HS from Jacksonville, FL. And that's just the boys' side. On the girls' side you have Statesboro, Southeast Bulloch, and more. This is a fantastic event for us locally that brings 13 different schools into our city over a span of three days for some really high-end basketball."
Games on Tuesday and Wednesday will begin at 11:00 a.m., with the last game set to tip at 8:00 p.m. Thursday's games start at 9:00 a.m., with the last game set for 9:00 p.m. The cost for each day is $8.00 per person, and tickets may be purchased in advance or at the gate using a Debit or Credit Card. Only VHS Booster passes, and GHSA passes will be honored.


I'm crazy about houses. I like all varietals of houses - I like 'em big, I like 'em small, I like 'em rough and I like 'em weird. My blog is a collection of some of the neatest houses that I have come across in my house-hunting journeys.


Cosmetic dental treatments are a life changing way to improve your self esteem and appearance. We all dream of having straight, white and proportionate smiles, and fortunately, a beautiful smile is attainable for everyone! Thompson Dental offers effective cosmetic dental services that can transform even the most obvious and stubborn smile flaws. Some of our most popular treatments include professional whitening, porcelain veneers and dental implants.
Once permanent tooth stains develop, they stick around until a person receives professional treatment. While over the counter products are widely available in grocery stores and pharmacies, they are often ineffective at treating deep discoloration and yellowing because they do not contain stable formulas or high concentrations of bleaching ingredients needed to remove permanent stains. Professional whitening treatments, however, are safe for teeth and very effective at whitening one's smile. In fact, an in-office whitening treatment can brighten a person's smile about eight shades lighter. Thompson Dental provides in-office treatments and custom take home kits that contain potent, prescription bleaching solutions which allows our patients to choose the method of whitening that best suits their needs and lifestyle.
For those suffering with smile imperfections, porcelain veneers are a great option for creating a flawless smile. Veneers are cosmetic enhancements made from high quality porcelain. Formed and shaped to fit over the front surfaces of teeth, veneers conceal flaws like stains, cracks, chips and crooked teeth. When a series of veneers are bonded over the front of teeth, they produce a perfectly proportionate and bright smile.
Dental implants have rapidly become the preferred method of tooth replacement by oral health professionals and patients because of their ability to restore oral function without sacrificing the appearance of one's smile. When dental implants are fitted with permanent, white restorations like crowns and bridges, they produce a very lifelike looking smile that can stand up to the daily forces associated with biting, tearing and chewing foods of all kinds. An implant is a titanium screw-like prosthetic that is placed in the jawbone so that it can ultimately function like the root of a biological tooth. Once bone stabilizes the titanium post of an implant, a custom bridge or crown is attached to complete the smile makeover process.
A wealth of research has been dedicated to the emotional and mental effects of having a noticeably flawed smile. When our teeth show obvious signs of discoloration, wear and tear, or tooth loss, we can suffer from depression, social anxiety, and greatly diminished self-confidence. The effects of an imperfect smile are far-reaching, and that is why our team at Thompson Dental is committed to helping our patients enjoy healthy, beautiful teeth.
If cosmetic dentistry interests you, we recommend scheduling a smile makeover consultation with Dr. Thompson. At your appointment, we will examine the appearance of your teeth as well as the overall state of your oral health to determine the type of treatment(s) that will benefit your specific needs. We take a compassionate approach to helping all of our patients!
Call us today to reserve an appointment! Our practice serves patients in and around the McKinney area.
I can't say enough about my experience to Thompson Dental. The staff was so pleasant and helpful. Every step of the process was explained well and the procedure was done with ease with no pain or discomfort. I've had awful experiences with dentists in the past, but this team was awesome! Thank you all for making me feel like part of the family!!
This is the best dentist I have ever been to. He truly cares about you and actually talks to you like a human and doesn't treat you like you are stupid( I am 25) He is very kind and so is the rest of his staff. I am truly thankful for him.
I am not a dentistphobic, but really, who likes going to the dentist? Well, I found one that I don't mind visiting. The people here will make you forget the stress of teeth cleaning, exams or x-rays! They listen to you. They are really concerned and not just going through the motions! Could not recommend more highly!
A veneer is a cosmetic enhancement that is made of porcelain. It is crafted into a tooth-shaped enhancement made specifically for a patient after very careful measurements have been taken from dental molds. Porcelain veneers are bonded over the front of a tooth to conceal flaws and imperfections like stains, cracks, and orthodontic issues. Veneers are permanent and when a series of them are used, they can turn an imperfect smile into a flawless one.
Cosmetic dentistry can improve your smile by concealing imperfections or correcting them. For instance, a professional teeth whitening treatment can lift deep, permanent stains while porcelain veneers can give the appearance of properly spaced and shaped teeth.
A dental implant is a prosthetic that is used to replace the missing root of a tooth and support a custom restoration like a crown or bridge. A dental implant is bio-compatible with the body, therefore allowing it to function like natural tooth structure below the gums. Embedded into the jawbone and stabilized by bone fusing to its titanium construction, an implant serves as a durable support system for natural looking restorations that replace the biting (visible) surfaces of teeth.
The only way to determine one's candidacy for dental implants is after an oral examination that includes taking diagnostic images. Ideal candidates for implants should be committed to their oral health and have enough bone mass to support an implant. Patients with implants should be vigilant about preventing gum disease and should not smoke.


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Алексе́й Влади́мирович Гро́шев (10 марта 1989 года, ) — российский лыжник, двукратный чемпион Сурдлимпийских игр, чемпион мира. Заслуженный мастер спорта России.

Награды и звания
 Медаль ордена «За заслуги перед Отечеством» II степени (10 апреля 2015 года) — за выдающийся вклад в повышение авторитета Российской Федерации и российского спорта на международном уровне и высокие спортивные достижения на XVIII Сурдлимпийских зимних играх 2015 года..

Примечания

Ссылки
 Алексей Грошев — профиль на сайте Международной федерации спорта глухих
 Алексей Грошев — профиль на сайте БУ ХМАО «ЦАС»

Лыжники России
Чемпионы Сурдлимпийских игр от России
Чемпионы зимних Сурдлимпийских игр 2015 года
Лыжники на зимних Сурдлимпийских играх 2015 года
Чемпионы России по лыжным гонкам среди глухих
Глухие спортсмены России

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


The APsystems microinverter will operate in standalone mode without connecting to either the ECU or the EMA, and also works with the ECU alone. However, to allow full web analysis, the ECU must be connected to and logged into the EMA.
What is the process for installers to install and register APsystems microinverters?
Click here to visit APsystems support site that contains information on the resources and process installers need to know to install and register APsystems microinverters.
How many YC500As can be installed on a 240V system using a 20A circuit breaker? How many on a 208V system?
Up to seven YC500A or YC500i units can be installed on a 240V system using a 20A breaker. Up to six can be installed on a 208V system using a 20A circuit breaker.
What accessories are included in an YC1000 install package?
The AC Bus Cable and the End Cap.
How do I contact APsystems Technical Services?
Call APsystems at (844) 666-7034, or email support@usa.apsystems.com.
What product training does APsystems offer?
APsystems conducts training webinars every week from 8:00 a.m. PST to 10:00 a.m. PST. Go to our training page to select a webinar and register. Also, APsystems has a training video on the YC500 and ECU available here. Additionally, APsystems offers regional installer training through participating distributors. Visit the APsystems partner page here and contact an authorized APsystems distributor to find out when their next APsystems product training is.
My ECU seems to be stuck in the "Searching" mode. Can you tell me why?
The microinverter UID numbers have not yet been programmed into the ECU.
What is the YC500A DC startup voltage, i.e. voltage from the panel required to energize the inverter?
What is the maximum PV power rating of each panel when connecting four panels to a YC1000?
What is the AC Bus Cable "T" Connector spacing for panels installed in Portrait mode? Landscape?
The proper AC Bus Cable "T" Connector spacing for panels installed in Portrait mode is 2 meters. The spacing is 4 meters for Landscape.
How do Installers request an EMA account?
Installers can request an EMA account from APsystems by completing the form on the APsystems website here. Alternately, you can contact APsystems Technical Services or Customer Service at (844) 666-7035.
What is the most likely cause of panels displaying 0W in the EMA?
Potential causes may include poor power line communications, no web access or an incorrect ECU number input in the EMA.
What is required when installing multiple ECUs on the same roof?
A line communications filter is required. Contact APsystems for recommendations on line communications filters for your application.
What is the unobstructed, line-of-sight range from an ECU w/ ZigBee to the closest ZigBee inverter?
What are the approved grounding methods when installing YC500A microinverters?
External copper wire (solid/stranded) or WEEB grounding washers.
Which length of the YC500A AC cable should be closest to the circuit junction box, i.e. connected to the AC Termination Cable?
The long AC cable w/ male connector should be closest to the junction box. Review the installation manual available on the website for detailed installation instructions.
Does the YC500 AC End Cap fit a male or female connector?
What are the maximum power and current outputs of the eSensor?
At what temperature will the inverters go into Over-temp Protection mode?
Can Installers embed customer EMA sites into their company web site?
Yes. Contact APsystems Technical Services for detailed instructions on embedding EMA system data in a webpage.
How often can Installers receive EMA notifications on their customers' systems status?
Daily, regardless of system status.
How do I sign up to receive Weekly Energy Production Reports?
Select "Send Weekly Production Report" in your EMA account.
Who can reset the customer EMA account password?
The password can be changed by the installer using their login or by the customer themselves. The password can also be reset by contacting APsystems Technical Services.
How many days' worth of data does an inverter store? The ECU?
The microinverter stores two days of data while the ECU stores several months' worth.
What is the wire size of the YC500A AC cable conductors? The YC1000?
The wire size of the YC500A AC cable conductors is 12 AWG, and 14 AWG for the YC1000.
What does a flashing red light on the microinverter's LED indicate? Flashing green?
A flashing red light indicates the microinverter is not producing energy. A flashing green means the microinverter is producing energy.
Does the ECU's Neutral conductor need to be connected in order to communicate with the microinverters?
What information is needed to register an installation in the EMA?
The installation map complete with microinverter UIDs, customer contact information and the ECU number.
Can the YC1000 provide individual monitoring of each PV module?
What is the maximum number of YC1000s that can be installed per branch on a 480V system? A 208V system?
Up to 11 YC1000s can be installed per branch on a 480V system, or up to four on a 208V system.
At what point during the installation process should Installers attach ZigBee antennas to the inverters?
After the inverters are mounted to the racking.
Can technicians use their smartphone cameras to scan inverter bar code labels when using the ArrayApp?
Yes for the iPhone and select Android devices.
What is the ECU's default IP address?
The ECU is not communicating with the EMA server.
How often do the ECU and microinverters communicate on a typical residential system?
How do installers update the ECU software?
No action is required, the software updates automatically.
Where do I update the microinverter UID number when a unit is replaced?
The UID number should be updated in the Installer/Distributor EMA account and on the ECU.
What does an "!" after the inverter count on the ECU display indicate?
It indicates an inverter count mismatch.
What is the likely cause of the error "ECU number already exists" when registering a system?
The ECU registration is incomplete.
Do technicians need to run an external ground cable when installing a YC500-MX model microinverter in a 127V system?
No, there is a dedicated ground wire in the AC cable.
What is the length of the YC500A AC cable from end-to-end, i.e. the maximum possible distance between adjacent inverters on the same branch circuit?
What is the maximum size PV panel (power output) and number of cells that can be connected to an APsystems YC500A microinverter?
Panel is compatible with the YC500 if all MPPT and short circuit voltages, currents and temperature specifications are compatible and it has MC-4 DC connectors.
What kind of warranty is available for APsystems microinverters?
APsystems offers a limited 10-year warranty extendable to 25 years.
What regulatory standards do APsystems microinverters comply with in North America?
How do APsystems microinverters comply with AFCI (Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupter) – NEC 690.11?
This requirement is for direct current (DC) Arc-Fault Circuit protection and only applies to systems with DC voltages above 80 VDC. APsystems USA microinverter systems are exempted from this requirement as they always operate well below 80 VDC. The requirement is basically unchanged from the NEC 2011, and it is unnecessary to add DC AFCI to an APsystems USA microinverter system installation.
How do APsystems microinverters comply with rapid shutdown (NEC 690.12)?
Solar electric PV systems with APsystems microinverters have one utility-interactive inverter directly connected with two solar modules (YC500), converting low-voltage DC to utility grid-compliant AC. When the utility grid is available and the sun is shining, each microinverter verifies that the utility grid is operating within the IEEE 1547 requirements. Only then does it export AC power into the electric service for use by loads onsite or export power to the utility grid for others to use.
When the utility grid has a failure, or the PV system AC circuits are disconnected from the utility service via an AC breaker, AC disconnect, or removal of the solar or main utility service meter, the microinverters stop producing AC power in fewer than six AC cycles.
than 3 m (10 ft) from a PV array.


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Across the South Shore, people from all walks of life are joining groups with a common passion: hitting the open road on a motorcycle. But joining one of South Shore's many motorcycle groups can often entail taking on some stereotypes.
Ron Morse, director of the Brockton-based South Shore chapter of the Harley Owners Group, said the roaring engines, leather jackets worn by many motorcyclists and past examples of notorious motorcycle "bad guys" can lead some people to have the wrong impression.
Many local groups let their charity work speak for itself. Morse notes that the South Shore chapter of the Harley Owners Group has helped raise money for veterans hospitals, the Muscular Dystrophy Association, the American Heart Association and homeless shelters, among other causes. Similarly, New England Thunder members donate time and supplies to local animal shelters several times annually.


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Top Ten Reads of 2018
2018 is coming to an end and aside from the approaching of a new year (and making new resolutions?), that also means it's time for a reflection of the books I read and which titles have made it onto my top reads. Without further ado, here's the list of my top ten reads of 2018 (not in order):
Our House by Louise Candlish
Don't Believe It by Charlie Donlea
The Storm King by Brendan Duffy
Circe by Madeline Miller
The Last Time I Lied by Riley Sager
Salt Lane by William Shaw
Pretty Girls by Karin Slaughter
The Broken Girls by Simone St. James
Dracul by Dacre Stoker and J.D. Barker
The Chalk Man by C.J. Tudor
Snap by Belinda Bauer
Dead Girls by Abigail Tarttelin
Without Merit by Colleen Hoover
Reading Statistics:
Male Authors: 15
Female Authors: 52
Thriller/Suspense/Mystery: 52
Contemporary Romance: 10
Fantasy: 3
Historical: 2
Horror: 4
YA: 2
So there you have it. From the look of it, I read more thriller/suspense/mystery books than books from other genres so my reading goal next year is to have a more balanced read. I hope I can do it.
What's your favourite books of the year? And since this will be my last post of 2018, I'd like to wish you a very Happy New Year!
Labels: General, Top Reads 16 comments |
Josh and Hazel's Guide to Not Dating by Christina Lauren
Gallery Books | September 2018 | 320 pgs
I've not read anything by Christina Lauren but I've heard a lot of good things about this book. For readers who love a friends-to-lovers kind of story, you'll probably love this.
Hazel Bradford first knew Josh Im when they were in college. Ten years later, she still thinks he's good-looking and proper in all sense while he thinks of her as wild, crazy and funny at times. Needless to say, their personality clashes and Josh doesn't think Hazel as his kind of gal. Plus, he has gone out with Tabitha for two years although it's a long distance relationship. It is strange how fate has once again brought this two together. Hazel is an elementary school teacher and when her good friend, Emily, invited her to her house as a get-together, she doesn't have much thoughts until she saw Josh there. It turns out that Josh is Emily's brother.
Despite the awkwardness, Hazel continues to hang out with Josh like any other friends. And when Josh later found out that his girlfriend is cheating on him, Hazel thinks it isn't a bad idea to go on a double date. However, no matter how many dates they've gone, they just didn't click with each other's friends. But of course by that time their connection and tacit understanding struck them both that they may have a chance with each other after all.
This book was a great escapism after all the thrillers I read. On top of that, I loved it that the relationship was based from the foundation of friends first and that Hazel and Josh are two interesting characters who're relatable; the former who was not afraid of being herself while the latter was kind, sensitive and stable. They're the typical opposite-attract type of couple and I couldn't like them more because of who they are and how comfortable they're with each other. Their witty dialogues, Josh's Korean heritage and the different situations they were in made this such an entertaining read and I enjoyed the whole book in spite of the predictability. I'll definitely be looking out for more books by this author.
Labels: 4 stars, Book Review, Contemporary Romance 10 comments |
Kill the Queen by Jennifer Estep
HarperCollins Publishers | October 2018 | 480 pgs
This first novel of the Crown of Shards fantasy series tells a story of a royal family dynamics, politics and conspiracies with the combinations of magic and a hint of romance.
Lady Everleigh Blair lost her parents since young. Although she's seventeenth in line for the throne, her role in the royal court of Bellona is nothing but an assistant to the cook master. In their realm whereby one's magical power determines one's worth (i.e. magier, master and morph), Evie is considered the lowest since she's a mutt with no magical power. Her only strength is her enhanced sense of smell and the ability to be immuned of magic but no one knows of the latter since her late mother had warned her to keep it as a secret for her own good.
Bellona is a kingdom steeped in gladiator tradition so it is not uncommon for a woman to have battling skills. Evie is no warrior, but her cousin Vasilia, who's the crown princess, is a skilled warrior and once upon a time they were close with each other until Evie learnt that it was all a lie. Evie steers clear from her path thereafter, and Vasilia couldn't care less considering she has big plans ahead. Although Vasilia's mother, Queen Cordelia, intends to marry her off to the prince of Andvari for Bellona's benefits and further securing the ties between the two kingdoms; Vasilia, on the other end, has already planned to assassinate the Queen and take the throne by force.
After the massacre, Evie escapes with the help of her secret immunity. For survival and a plan to avenge for the Bellona people, she falls in with a gladiator troupe. While the troupe perform to amuse, several of them are actually highly trained warriors. There, Evie met a few interesting people, in particularly Lucas Sullivan, a magier who seemed to have some secrets of his own. As she trains with the troupe, she soon learn more about the troupe leader, Serilda, who used to be the late Queen's royal guard and how the troupe came about.
I was totally fascinated with the world building and the cast of characters in this book. Add in a dose of magic and some actions and I was hooked. There's nothing that I didn't love about this story; except that Evie may be too much of a risk taker at times. Then again, a warrior is one who shouldn't be afraid to take risks, especially if she has the best of heart for others. I also enjoyed the banter between Evie and Lucas; although there isn't much romantic chemistry between them, yet, I'm hoping to see there's some changes in the next installment, Protect the Prince.
Labels: 4 5 stars, Book Review, Fantasy 8 comments |
With You Always by Rena Olsen
Penguin Publishing Group | August 2018 | 352 pgs
Julia's life is flat and boring. After a painful breakup with her boyfriend, she set her mind on proving herself at work and hopefully her boss will start to notice her hard work and assign her some important tasks. Bryce walks into her life literally when she is preparing for a presentation and a gust of wind blows her papers everywhere. After Bryce has helped her pick up the papers, he asked to meet her for a drink which she said yes. That drink leads to another meeting and soon Julia finds herself saying yes to being his girlfriend. It's hard not to like Bryce; after all he's handsome, charming and he knows how to make Julia feels special and different. Bryce then brought Julia to his church; introducing her to his so-called family and encouraging her to engage in his church's activities and to follow their teaching and principles. Everything sounds promising except that Bryce doesn't share about his past and that there's something a little off with the Reverend and the followers' belief. And despite Julia's doubts, Bryce always manage to convince her in the end.
Julia slowly become isolated from her family, friends and eventually her job. After marriage, it become worse as Bryce doesn't seem like the man he used to be. Is it possible for her to leave, given that Bryce has already had plans for their relationship?
Although this latest novel by Rena Olsen is marketed as a psychological thriller, it read more like a women's fiction with domestic abuse issue. I've to say the plot was quite predictable and I'd some issue about Julia and the ending. First off, I felt Julia jumped too fast into the relationship right from the beginning. Sure, Bryce may seemed like a perfect man initially, but this didn't give Julia a good reason to lose control of her decisions. I knew then that the relationship isn't going to work and after the marriage it only got worse. At that point, I felt no motivation to read further (this explains my slow progress) but there's something about the author's writing that made me continue reading. As for the ending I felt it to be rushed and that some questions are left unanswered. That said, this may deem to be a suitable read for readers who love a domestic drama rather than a suspense/thriller.
Labels: 2.5 stars, Book Review, Psychological Thriller 10 comments |
Under a Dark Sky by Lori Rader-Day
William Morrow | August 2018 | 416 pgs
Have you heard of the term "dark sky park"? I haven't until I read this book. Basically it's a park that offers dazzling views of the Constellations and the Milky Way with minimal lightings so as to keep the area as natural as possible (for more information click here.) In this story, the author had chosen Headlands International Dark Sky Park in Mackinaw City, Michigan as the model for the fictional Straits Point International Dark Sky Park.
Thirtyish Eden Wallace is a photographer who'd lost her husband, Bix, to a car accident. Before Bix's death, Eden is a person who doesn't have much drive or motivation when her ambition is concerned. This is partly due to Bix's job as an Army, which often requires him to travel and with her following around, it is hard to settle on something permanent. Now that Bix is gone, Eden finds no reason for any motivation and also plagued by night terrors there isn't a night she goes to sleep without the lights on. However one day, she finds paperwork in her husband's effects indicating that he reserved a week under the stars in a dark sky park meant for their tenth anniversary. Despite her paralysing phobia of the dark, Eden proceeds to the destination.
What she thought was a private retreat in a guest suite at Straits Point International Dark Sky Park turns out to be a group stay as there was a mistake made by the reception. Eden isn't keen to be stuck with six twentysomethings for their college reunion, so she decides to stay for a night and head home the next day. However, one of the six was later found murdered and Eden's hope of going home is dashed. While they are forced to remain at the guest house for the investigation, Eden discovered that the group's friendship isn't what she has thought initially as they each seem to harbour some secrets of their own. Now everyone becomes a suspect, including Eden herself. But what most bothered Eden is aside from the tricky situation she's in, she also discovered some secrets surrounding Bix before his death.
Under a Dark Sky was a brilliant locked-room mystery which had my attention from the beginning till the end, especially given the setting and not to mention a cast of intriguing characters. Eden was an interesting character, to say the least, and she carried lots of emotional baggage since the death of her husband and the things she's gone through thereafter. The rest of the characters are a mysterious lot, and while I was curious to know the murderer and his/her motive, I've to say this book was actually very much about Eden as there's also a storyline about herself and her late husband that are woven into the murder mystery's core. A gripping read and I'd recommend this book to readers who love a good mystery (or two).
Labels: 4 5 stars, Book Review, Mystery 8 comments |
Hello! So I'm back. Our vacation was a great one. For the inquiring minds, we went to Taiwan. It was our third trip and our last trip was three years ago. Regardless of the various countries and how many times we visited, all I can say is each experience is special and different because of the people we met. I'm glad to say we'd been lucky with the tour guides we had and this time is no exception. The places we visited were fascinating; some eye-opening while some simply amazing. I'd been posting some pictures on Instagram for the past few days so if you've followed my account you may have seen them. Anyway, I attached a few pictures I posted on IG for anyone who missed it. :)
- Morning walk at Flying Cow Ranch. I've to say this is my best 'artistic' shot among all. :D
- View of Taipei City from hiking at Elephant Mountain. Phew, those stairs! (photo credit: my husband)
- Popular shopping district at Ximending
- Rainbow Village (there's a history about it which you can read here)
- One of the orchid pics taken at Taichung Flower Expo
Onto bookish topic, I only finished a book (With You Always by Rena Olsen) while I was on the trip. Actually I'd started reading it beforehand and it was a slow progress, so to speak. It was a domestic thriller and review will be forthcoming. Before writing this post, I'd just finished reading a Chinese romance titled Waiting for You Yesterday (我在昨天等你) by Taiwanese writer, Misa. It's a library book but it'd caught my attention during a visit to a bookstore in Taiwan. It's a story about family, friendship as well as love rebirth. It's also a story filled with heartfelt sentiments which had me in tears in the end (note to self: will be checking out more of her books in the near future). Onto another book, I'm currently reading Kill the Queen by Jennifer Estep; it's a first novel in the Crown of Shards epic fantasy series that combines magic, murder and adventure. Sounds exciting, isn't it? And it has a gorgeous cover too.
So did I miss anything while I was away? I definitely miss reading all your blog posts and am curious to know what you've been reading. I'm still slowly catching up on reading my library books as well as blog hopping/commenting; after all some part of my mind is still on the trip, ha. Happy reading!
Labels: General, Musing, Reading, Vacation 8 comments |
Dracul by Dacre Stoker & J.D. Barker
Penguin Publishing Group | October 2018 | 512 pgs
We are all aware that Bram Stoker is the author of the timeless classic horror, Dracula. Dacre Stoker, Bram's great-grandnephew, together with author J.D. Barker, cowrite this prequel inspired through Bram's journals and notes and tell readers not only about the origins of the scary vampire which haunts our dreams but also a story of Bram and an enigmatic woman who bound them together.
The year is 1854. Seven-year-old Bram Stoker is a sickly child and spend most of his time in bed in their Dublin's home, tended by a caretaker named Ellen Crone. The Stokers hired the young woman by chance after their previous caretaker left in a haste; and while the Stokers are skeptical of Ellen's enigmatic behaviours in the beginning, they soon get used of her characteristics given how Bram seem to get better under her care. Although Bram has a few other siblings, it is Matilda, his sister who's a year older, whom he share a deep bond with. As much as both of them adore Ellen, there are times that they couldn't put a finger on Ellen's actions and why she would leave the house for a few days and then return as if nothing happens. But what most perplexing is her appearance as she could be glowing today and then haggard the next. To unravel the mystery surrounding Ellen, Bram and Matilda did a little investigation and learned of her unknown side.
Back to the present in 1868 when Bram is an adult, we "find" him secured in a locked room at an abandoned abbey trying to fend off some monster which is on his trail. With time running out and hoping that help would be on its way, he hurriedly writes down all the events right from the start till what have brought him to the present and this begins the tale of Dracul.
Dracul is both a horror and a love story at its best. Told from two timelines through various sources like journals, diary entries, letters and notes, as well as a segment on a few narrators who also play an important role in this story (e.g. Matilda and Thornley Stoker, and Dr Arminius Vambéry who has some knowledge in vampirism). I find all the characters intriguing here; and I've to say Matilda was my favourite character among all. She's feisty since a young girl and we continue to see her bravery side and determination right up to her adulthood. Then, there's the close-knit relationship she had with Bram that I find rather heartwarming at times.
And if Bram is the leading role, then Ellen is the star of this story. There is so much I wanted to talk about her yet it wouldn't be fun if I indulge all her mysterious side and secrets; likewise the plot. As you can tell, I enjoyed the wild ride immensely. "Wow!" is an understatement of how I felt after closing this book and I hope you'll pick up this book quickly.
Note: This is a scheduled post as I'm currently on vacation. Blog hop and comments will resume after my return. Happy reading!
Labels: 5 stars, Book Review, Fiction, Horror 8 comments |
Tear Me Apart by J.T. Ellison
MIRA Books | August 2018 | 496 pgs
Seventeen-year-old Mindy Wright is a skier and has a promising aspect in competing in the Olympics until a skiing accident crashes not just her racing career but her life. During the surgery, the surgeon found out that she is suffering from leukemia and that a stem cell transplant has to be conducted so as to save her life. However, this is only the beginning of the nightmare for the Wrights as not only Mindy's life is threatened but no one in the family has the match for Mindy's stem cell transplant. In other words, Mindy's parents aren't her biological parents.
With the clock ticking to find Mindy's biological parents, the reader got to learn that there are secrets and deceptions surrounding Mindy's adoptive mother, Lauren Wright, and how Lauren's younger sister, Juliet, who works as a DNA Analyst with the CBI, will go to any lengths to search for Mindy's biological parents, even if it means bypassing some protocols.
This story was split into three parts and was a multi-layered suspense built upon layers of secrets and mysteries, both in the present and flashbacks. While the reader was intrigued by Mindy's biological parents and why Lauren didn't want Mindy's secrets to expose to the world, there are also parts about a few letter exchanges in 1993 between two women, Liesel and Vivian, when both of them were in University Hospital for some diagnosis treatment, thus adding more intrigue to the story and make readers wonder if there's a connection to Mindy's and/or Lauren's story.
This story was well structured from the beginning till the end, however it was also a slow-burn kind of suspense as the author took her time in developing the characters and setting up the intrigue bit by bit as the story progresses. Personally, I felt the book would've been much better if some parts aren't draggy but the writing style and the execution won me over eventually.
Labels: 4 stars, Book Review, Domestic Thriller 8 comments |
Lost and Found Sisters by Jill Shalvis
HarperCollins Publishers | June 2017 | 400 pgs
If you're familiar with Jill Shalvis's books, you should know that her contemporary romances alway showcase a great cast of characters, witty dialogues and sweet heartwarming moments that would melt your heart. She is one of my go-to authors should I need a romance read fix. This is the first book of the Wildstone series; which is also her first women's fiction novel and although the genre is different, I'm glad to say her signature remains and yes, there's still some romance element in it.
30-year-old Quinn Weller works as a sous-chef in one of L.A.'s hottest eateries. She has a loving family and a great boyfriend, Brock. She's known Brock since kindergarten so their relationship is more like close friends than a couple. Despite her wonderful life, she's been feeling empty especially after she'd lost her sister, Beth, in a car accident. Then when a lawyer from Wildstone delivers a shocking news to her, she realises that her life has been all a lie. To seek the truth and to claim an inheritance meant for her, she left her everything in L.A. to a small hometown in Wildstone, California.
There in Wildstone, Quinn soon finds that the residents are charming and easy-going. As Quinn tries to settle down, she encounters Mick Hennessey who is humorous and is quick to help her whenever she runs into trouble; like fixing her dripping sink and chasing away bugs in a B&B where she is staying. What Quinn doesn't know about Mick is that he's a structural engineer working in San Francisco who is staying in the same B&B and he is there in Wildstone to check on his mother once in a while and to make sure all things are well and taken care of since his mother isn't keen on moving.
As Quinn and Mick get to know each other, this is also the beginning where Quinn starts to question herself about the route and the responsibility she is going to take after knowing that she has a teenage sister, Tilly, living in Wildstone. At its core of the story, it is basically about Quinn's self discovery and what she'd do if given a new life in a much smaller and slower paced Wildstone yet a place she could feel at ease and be contented with.
Lost and Found Sisters was an enjoyable read and I found myself swept away by all the characters in this book, including Coop the dog. Coop is Mick's dog and throughout the book you'll find that he always stick by Mick wherever he goes. Tilly's story is a sad one, but she is a strong character and I liked the feisty spirit in her at times. And oh, there are a few scenarios where we read about Quinn's exchanges with Beth when Quinn stays in that rundown B&B. Whether if Quinn really communicates with a ghost or if it's all in her head, I was never sure but at least those little moments gave her some reminiscent of their happier times. This was a great first installment of a new series and it could be read as a standalone, too.
Labels: 4 stars, Book Review, Contemporary Romance, Women's Fiction 8 comments |
In Her Bones by Kate Moretti
Atria Books | September 2018 | 320 pgs
Fifteen years ago, Lilith Wade was arrested and tried for the brutal murder of six women from 1998 till 2001. It caused an uproar then and till present the mention of Lilith Wade's name still sent shivers to some and hatred to others. There is even a book, titled The Serrated Edge: The Story of Lilith Wade, Serial Killer, which chronicles about her murders and her victims and even mentioned about her sad youthful past; in which she was then diagnosed with some mental disorder and have raised some discussions whether or not if her circumstances would've been different should she was paid more attention back then. Nevertheless, murder is still murder and so Lilith is put on a death row conviction.
Lilith has two children and one of them is 30-year-old Edie Beckett, who is the narrator in this story. A recovering alcoholic with a dead-end city job, she has a detective to thank for for putting her life back together after Lilith was sentenced and for getting her a job. Edie doesn't mix around much, and would prefer having her brother, Dylan, for company than anyone else. As much as this codependent relationship is unhealthy, Edie also has a disturbing secret - an obsession with Lilith's victims' families and finding out how they've moved on after a family member's murder. Edie will go to any lengths to dig about their life and she is always careful when covering her tracks. However, her fixation on one man, Peter Lipsky, had her crossing a line and the next thing she knew, he is found murdered.
With Edie's connection to Lilith and that there are some evidences that pointed towards Edie, she becomes a fugitive and this makes her wonder who would've known about her fixation on Peter. With her mother behind bars and her nonexistent social life, Edie is sure someone is trying to frame her but who and why?
Having read Kate Moretti's previous novel, The Blackbird Season, I was hooked by her storytelling, her writing style and most of all, her characterisation which I felt are well drawn. In Her Bones is no exception when it comes to writing style and characterisation, but the slow pace and some repetitiveness are a drawback to this psychological suspense. The first half covers mainly of Edie's obsession, her diggings and befriending Peter; while perhaps these are essential to the plot, the reader got a sense of some repetitiveness but fortunately the pace picked up thereafter. I also liked it that there are some excerpts from The Serrated Edge which allow some insights and interviews surrounding Lilith's murder cases. In general, I'd say this is a story that will leave the reader questioning about obsession and the toxicity of familial ties, and whether or not if bad traits or habits could be inherited, as what Edie fears from the beginning.
Labels: 4 stars, Book Review, Psychological Suspense 6 comments |
The House Swap by Rebecca Fleet
Doubleday | May 2018 | 320 pgs
Caroline and Francis are working on their marriage and have planned for a short getaway as a reconnection of their relationship. And instead of staying in a hotel or a resort, Caroline's plan is a house swap with someone for a week so they can stay at the owner's house and vice versa. Since all the transactions were made online and keys arrangements were made individually, each party didn't get a chance to meet in person and it was fine with Caroline.
Flashback to two years earlier alternatively, the reader gets to know that Caroline is cheating on Francis and her lover, Carl, is a colleague who is a few years her junior but have actually separated in the present time. Francis, on the other end, has a pill addiction and Caroline isn't aware of his habits until she found his hidden stash one day. Caroline decided to keep mum for a while and Francis is suspicious of Caroline's movements as she always claim to have a party or a girls' outings at times, leaving their young son Eddie to him or with her mother. Like Caroline, Francis remains quiet and hope that his suspicion is all speculations.
As much as Caroline and Francis prefer to keep on with the pretense and "enjoy" their current status, things or circumstances start to pop up unexpectedly and this is when a strange woman starts to barge into Caroline's life now and then and trying to be friends. Caroline also begins to see bits of items in the rental house that remind her of the memories she'd had with Carl. Caroline knew no one but Carl who will understand the sentiments of these items which they'd once shared, so she starts questioning about the strange things that start to appear around her and wonder if Carl is back into her life again after what'd happened then.
The House Swap has an intriguing plot but the beginning was a slow burn but once it hit the second quarter mark it read like a breeze. I didn't particularly like any of the characters here (with the exception of little Eddie, poor boy); and what seemed like a domestic thriller read more like a drama as it shifted back and forth surrounding mostly on Caroline's life and how 'Away' (present) and 'Home' (flashback) affect her emotionally. Francis, her husband, may seem like an important role in this story but unfortunately there isn't enough backstory about him and how/why he is addicted to taking pills. The ending wasn't what I'd suspected, although I thought it was a bit far-fetched. Still, it was overall an average read to me.
Labels: 3 stars, Book Review, Suspense Thriller 12 comments |
If You Leave Me by Crystal Hana Kim
Set in the 1950s amid the Korean War, this debut novel by Crystal Hana Kim revolves around our three protagonists and the choices they are forced to make during the war times and how it shaped their destinies thereafter.
Sixteen-year-old Haemi Lee, together with her widowed mother and ailing brother, live in a refugee village after their home was invaded by the Communist-backed army from the North. With the grim circumstances and so forth, Haemi finds some solace in her childhood friend, Kyunghwan, as they will meet for some late night drinks and exchange sentiments. Although Kyunghwan has feelings for Haemi, he put his mind on finishing his studies first so he isn't aware that his older cousin, Jisoo, already has his sights set on Haemi.
As much as Haemi dislike the idea of marrying for security, deep in her heart she knew she has no choice and on top of it, Kyunghwan doesn't seem to have any plans. So Jisoo married Haemi before joining the fight, and Kyunghwan has left Busan to begin a new journey of his own. Haemi by then is a mother to three daughters and while her marriage to Jisoo remains stable, it isn't really a happy and a fulfilling one. What she felt for Jisoo is more towards a feeling of affection than love and at times Haemi will reflect on her decision in choosing him and what would happen if she had chosen Kyunghwan.
Throughout the years, Kyunghwan remains single and his feelings towards Haemi hasn't changed. His return to Busan sent a ripple in Haemi's once quiet life and though she remains unaffected on surface, she is consumed with guilt as she finds herself still drawn to him.
If You Leave Me may seem like an ordinary love triangle story, but it is rich in culture and the life of living as refugees set in the war times was well portrayed and heartbreaking. Crystal Hana Kim's writing is beautiful and lyrical, and the characters are fleshed out and relatable. I'd had a few thoughts after finishing the book and I think our three protagonists are all sad victims of war which in turn led to decisions and then more decisions and consequences. This was an absorbing debut novel and I'll be sure to check out Kim's future releases.
Labels: 4 stars, Book Review, Historical Fiction, Romance 12 comments |
Drama Reviews: The Ghost Detective | Jugglers
The Ghost Detective (今天的偵探)
Plot Synopsis by AsianWiki Staff
Lee Da-Il is a private investigator. He was formerly in the military, but a whistleblower case led to his discharge. Jung Yeo-Wool becomes his assistant. She is a fearless woman. They work together to solve a mystery surrounding the death of a younger sibling. They also work together to solve other cases, some involving ghosts.
I binge watched these two dramas for the past few weeks and thus neglected my books. Well I still read, but my progress was slow. Now that I was done with them, I'm back to my regular reading mode (unless I was sidetracked once again). Anyways, back to the topic. The Ghost Detective was a horror thriller and I thought it has a good premise. The lead character, Da-Il (starring Daniel Choi) became a ghost while solving a kidnapping case; he was buried alive but his soul wanders around. Yeo-Wool (starring Park Eun-Bin) lost her sister to a paranormal incident and had requested the police to look into the case but was rejected. She encountered Da-Il and was the only person who was able to see him. They worked together to find this ghost who manipulated and killed several people, including Da-Il's mother and Yeo-Wool's younger sister.
The paranormal aspect was an intriguing one, but there are some scenarios which I found confusing, though. I was particularly skeptical about Sun Woo-Hye (starring Lee Ji-Ah), the ghost because she was actually a twelve-year-old girl but over the years her body was in comatose and was kept alive through a respirator. Her speech and mentality were like an adult at times, and she was a real devil. The supporting characters were intriguing as well, as they involved a shaman cum medical examiner and a meticulous cop who seemed to have a little crush on Yeo-Wool. The romance element was minimal, but I liked the chemistry between Da-Il and Yeo-Wool. Despite a few shortcomings, overall I thought it was an entertaining drama.
Yoon-Yi (Baek Jin-Hee) works as a secretary and has held her job for the past 5 years. She is loyal and devoted to her work. Yoon-Yi also runs an internet community website for secretaries. One day, her boss's wife mistakenly assumes her husband is having an affair with Yoon-Yi. The scandal spreads throughout her company. Her boss though does not correct the misunderstanding to coverup his own real affair he is having with someone else. Yoon-Yi is placed on a waiting list for a new position and she is devastated.
Meanwhile, Chi-Won (Daniel Choi) is scouted for a managing director position in the Video Business Department at YB Ad. He carries a trauma related to a fire incident when he was young. He is not interested in socializing with other people and he does not a have a secretary. Yoon-Yi is assigned to work as Chi-Won's secretary at YB Ad, but Chi-Won tells her that he does not need her. Yoon-Yi tells him otherwise and that she will work hard for him. One evening, Chi-Won's boss invites him and Yoon-Yi out for dinner. Yoon-Yi gets drunk and Chi-Won takes her home. It turns out the house where she lives is the same house where the traumatic fire incident occurred when Chi-Won was a child. Next to the front door, he sees a flyer looking for a tenant for a second floor room. Chi-Won decides to rent the room to overcome his trauma.
Jugglers is basically a story about office employees (in particularly personal assistants) and the difficulties and challenges they often encounter while working alongside with their bosses; and at its core it is an office romantic comedy which I found both sweet and entertaining. I've to admit I watched this because of actor Daniel Choi. I was quite charmed by his charisma in The Ghost Detective and I was glad to see another side of him in Jugglers as he played a cool and an unsociable boss but ended up falling in love with his PA.
What I liked about this drama is aside from the romance element (so, so sweet and romantic, sigh), it portrays the everyday life of a PA and what they do for their bosses. From running the office to running personal errands, they are the personnel who represent their bosses and at times, they have to grit their teeth to accomplish tasks which are beyond their duties. While not all bosses are making use of their authority and taking their PAs for granted, there are still some who do that like Yoon-Yi's ex-boss in this drama.
Aside from Yoon-Yi's and Chi-Won's perspectives, I also enjoyed the story between Wang Jung-Ae (starring Kang Hye-Jung) and Hwangbo Yool (starring Lee Won-Geun). June-Ae was a shy, working single mother who struggled to make ends meet, while Hwangbo was a young director living a king's life. It was interesting to see the changes in them as the story progresses; and I felt for Jung-Ae throughout the drama because she led such a sad life. Fortunately there was a HEA for her in the end. I enjoyed this one much more than The Ghost Detective, perhaps this was a romcom and it had brightened up my mood amid my girls' school exams period (it was over as of writing this, thank goodness!)
Labels: 3.5 stars, 4 stars, Drama review, Horror, Korean drama, Mystery, Romantic Comedy 6 comments |
Kensington | May 2018 | 304 pgs
This is Charlie Donlea's latest release and after reading his previous two books and enjoyed them, I'm glad to say he's now on my favourite authors list. I like how he constructs the stories and most of all, the implementation of a certain professionalism to go with the investigations. In his first book, Summit Lake, it revolves around journalistic inquiry and then there is forensic science in his second book, The Girl Who Was Taken. This book is more about the making of a real-life documentary film and what it takes for our filmmaker protagonist to investigate and help clear a woman who is convicted of murder.
Sidney Ryan has been receiving letters from Grace Sebold for some time; each letter asking Sidney to look into her case or at least hear her side of the story after she has spent the last ten years in a St. Lucian prison for the crime of murdering her boyfriend, Julian Crist. Julian and Grace had traveled to St. Lucian for a friend's wedding reception and part of their vacation. Based from a few witnesses' statements, it appeared that they'd had a little disagreement and when Julian was found dead at the bottom of a cliff, the St. Lucian police is quick to target Grace as a suspect and create all the evidence to match their claims. At that time, their statements seemed valid and so the case is closed and a sentence is passed.
Sidney has successfully uncovered two cases involving the wrongly accused in the past so she is interested in hearing Grace's story. Plus, this is her chance of putting her documentary on a huge TV network channel after a series of webcast in the past. She is ambitious and she is adamant to succeed thus she is working very hard with her research. However, the more she looks at all the gathered information it seems something is off and that some issues were even overlooked during the original investigation. With the popular viewership and the public outcry to reopen the case, Sidney thinks her documentary, The Girl of Sugar Beach, would wrap up nicely with only a few episodes to go until she receives a letter telling her she has got it all wrong.
If I enjoyed his previous two books, this book was even better. I think the idea of a true crime documentary is enticing and in this case the author has upped that enticement with the filmmaker to investigate a case alongside with the documentary making. The plot had me hooked all the way as it was multi-layered, and it kept me guessing if Grace was indeed innocent or if there is more than meets the eye. The characters are intriguing and are well developed; and there are times when I thought I'd some ideas where the direction was going, the outcome surprised me. A well crafted and well executed story and I'd recommend this to fans who love a good suspense.
Labels: 5 stars, Book Review, Psychological Suspense 16 comments |
Give Me Your Hand by Megan Abbott
Picador | July 2018 | 352 pgs
In her latest release, Give Me Your Hand, Megan Abbott has weaved a compelling story about secrets and the beauty and complexity of female friendship between our two protagonists, Kit Owens and Diane Fleming.
Kit first knew Diane when they were both in high school cross-country camp. Kit's first impression of Diane is that she is both intelligent and a driven girl. Diane seems to excel in almost everything, and she comes from a wealthy family to boot. Kit, on the other hand, wasn't as driven and it was Diane who had fueled the ambition into her after they were both in the same AP Chemistry class. At that time, there was the "Dr. Lena Severin Stem Scholarship for Women in Science" program and Kit remembers her as the first female scientist she'd met during a talk for their summer science program. Kit and Diane's friendship began to grow after they'd found their shared ambition but then it was later ripped apart after Diane told Kit about her secret - a terrible thing which she'd done.
After they'd gone their separate ways after graduation, Kit has now risen to the top of her profession as she works for Dr. Severin and her team for a two-year study of PMDD (Premenstrual dysphoric disorder). However, with limited funds and such there will be only two staff who would be given the grant. Aside from Dr. Severin, Kit is the only female in the group and given her gender and her hard work all these times she thinks she has a higher chance of getting it ... until Diane joins their group.
After all the years which passed between them, Kit remains the only one who has known Diane's secret. But now Diane knows something about Kit too after an incident which may threaten Kit's career. Who will go down first?
I don't think I've come across any author who has written such a fascinating yet complicated female friendship like Megan Abbott. She has captured all the intricateness and darkness between Kit and Diane's friendship as well as their similarities and differences through their dreams and personalities. As much as I was intrigued by the two women's ambition and desire, I think the other thing which captivated me is about the difficulties and the challenges faced by women working in a male-dominated field. To be on par with their male counterparts, they work extra hard and push themselves harder even though they are not inferior to them in so many ways. And again, Ms. Abbott has beautifully captured that kind of feeling and atmosphere through our three female characters, including the cool, mighty Dr. Severin.
This book is a slow-burn for a thriller, but it's intriguing and an unputdownable one for characters development, the felicity and complications between female friendship as well as the subject of PMDD.
Labels: 4 5 stars, Book Review, Psychological Thriller 16 comments |
All These Beautiful Strangers by Elizabeth Klehfoth
Penguin | July 2018 | 512 pgs
I love stories with a school/college setting and all the more with alternating timelines and a various set of narratives. This story is basically about a 17-year-old Charlotte "Charlie" Calloway's search for the truth surrounding her mother's disappearance ten years ago as well as her school life at the prestigious Knollwood Augustus Prep.
When Charlie was seven, her mother, Grace, left home and never returned. Although Charlie's father, Alistair Calloway, was initially suspected for Grace's disappearance, there was no evidence to point that he is guilty. The Calloways have slowly put this unsolved mystery behind them and move forward until Charlie receives a note from her Uncle Hank, who is Grace's elder brother. Charlie rarely contact her mother's family so she is intrigued about his request to meet her. Her meeting with Uncle Hank has once again filled her with questions surrounding Grace's disappearance, for he believes there is something more than meets the eye after he has found a stack of photographs of Grace as well as Charlie and her younger sister, Seraphina, when they were small. The only thing that stood out is a note written in capital letters, I KNOW.
But this is not the only thing that troubles Charlie. At Knollwood Prep there is a secret society of sorts called the A's has tagged her to become an initiate into the group. Although no one really know who the members are, they are all aware that the members have some sort of authoritative power and those who are tagged to become one of them has to perform a task within their allocated time or else they will be outed by the group. Most often, the tasks they are assigned to have consequences and are of risk of expulsion if they are caught. As much as Charlie is intrigued by the group, she doesn't approve of the tasks they are asked to do. Then, there are also rumours about a student who had committed suicide years ago and Charlie soon learns that he used to be friends with her parents back then.
(Look at the book! At first glance it already makes you wonder about the story, isn't it?)
All These Beautiful Strangers is Elizabeth Klehfoth's first novel and I've to say it was well written and I was hooked by this multi-layered mystery from the beginning till the end. The combination of the two timelines and multiple narratives work wonderfully in this story and I was equally invested in these two setups. The characterisations are well developed though they are all flawed. Overall I enjoyed this YA thriller and I'll certainly look out for this author's next book.
Labels: 4 5 stars, Book Review, Psychological Thriller, Young Adult 14 comments |
Bird Box by Josh Malerman
Ecco Press | May 2014 | 260 pgs
"Under no circumstances will either one of you remove your blindfold. If you do, I will hurt you. Do you understand?"
For four and a half years, Malorie and her two young children have not stepped out of their house near the river. Because there is something out there and whatever this is it must not be seen. There are news that one glimpse of it and a person is driven to deadly violence. Those who have seen will kill anyone around them before killing themselves. No one really knows what it is and how it happened but like a disease it has spread quickly and afar.
Before the children, Malorie had seeked refuge at a stranger's place which housed a few others survivors like her. Tom, who took on the role as a leader, had guided and supported the five other housemates, including Malorie, like his family. During those torturous years, they lived on canned foods, and Tom and Jules had risked their lives to go out to search for food while blindfolded. Like a blind man, they relied on their instincts and broomsticks and each time they are back they all count themselves lucky for escaping death and whatever was lurking out there. Until Gary, a newcomer, stepped into their house and changed everything.
Bird Box was a frightening read on many aspects. First of all, the unknown. Like the characters, the reader has no idea what the threat is. Is the "thing" a man, an animal or a creature? All we know is, it is scary and it could mess up your mind and make you kill. Interweaving between the past and the present, we learn that fear comes in various forms, and that our minds can be a scary thing. And despite the darkness we also see some light through Tom's courage and the things he's done for his housemates. This book will appease readers who like reading about the apocalyptic world with a dose of horror. A soon-to-be film starring Sandra Bullock, Sarah Paulson, Rosa Salazar, and John Malkovich.
Labels: 4 5 stars, Book Review, Horror, Thriller 14 comments |
Baby Teeth by Zoje Stage
St. Martin's Press | July 2018 | 320 pgs
Let me start off this post by saying that this isn't a book for everyone. So what is this story about? In a nutshell, it's about the love-hate relationship between a mother and her seven-year-old daughter.
When Suzette was young, she suffered from Crohn's disease and it left an emotional scar on her. She didn't get much love from her mother and this has made her to be a stronger person. She didn't think she'd find love again until she met Alex, now her husband, and she knew that she could live a new life again. However, little Hanna coming to the world seems to have change her equilibrium. Hanna doesn't speak and this worries the Jensens couple. Hanna has gone to many doctor consultations and it seems she is physically healthy. Whether she is picking up slowly or if it is more of a mental issue (there are times she adopts an alter ego of a dead young girl who was wrongly put to death back in the olden days as they believed she was a witch), the Jensens think that homeschooling her is the best option while seeking help through a psychologist.
Hanna, on the other end, has other plans. Despite her age, she is actually an intelligent girl. She doesn't like mommy and her world only revolves around daddy. She would put on her best act around daddy and leave her ugly behaviours only for mommy. But her acts become more and more malicious until Suzette begins to wonder if Hanna intends to kill her.
Based on Suzette's and Hanna's viewpoints, Baby Teeth was one compelling thriller on many levels. The characterisations and the subject involving a manipulative young girl are enough to creep anyone out but I've my doubts. For starters, I was skeptical about Hanna's intentions because she feels so young to me to have that kind of evil thoughts. I think it'd be more believable if she is a bit older; like a troubled teenager filled with angst. Secondly, given Hanna's behaviours and Alex's doubts, I'd feel that installing a CCTV (or a phone video recording of Hanna's behaviours) would be a logical way to put things to light but instead it became more of a melodramatic domestic thriller as the story progresses. However, I've to give credit to the author's creativity of writing this dysfunctional family from a new perspective. Based on the reviews at Goodreads, there is a balance between readers who love it or hate it and I've to say I'm in between since the writing was good and the story engaging but only if it is more plausible and that Hanna is much older.
Take Me In by Sabine Durrant
Mulholland Books | June 2018 | 352 pgs
Marcus and Tessa Nicholson, together with their three-year-old son, Josh, are happily vacationing in Greece when a moment of inattention almost ruined a life. Tessa has gone to make a phone call while Marcus has dozed off at the beach while watching Josh. Fortunately, a Dave Jepsom has jumped into the water in time to save their son. The Nicholsons are thankful for his heroic act and treated him for lunch. But it seems Dave has wanted more - he wants to be a part of their life and as the days go, Marcus and Tessa begin to see more of him; either stalking them or invited himself into their life like they are close friends.
For a while, the Nicholsons think Dave's attachment to them is harmless; after all he'd saved their son and he probably feels an affection for him. But his behaviours start to worry them, especially if Marcus and Tessa have a secret of their own and they begin to wonder if Dave is a threat to the secrets they are holding as both of them have a feeling that he is watching their movements. The tension begins to reach to a breaking point when they find their house being ransacked and vandalised one day, and of course their minds are on Dave. Is Dave their saviour or their stalker? And to what extent would the Nicholsons do to safeguard their secrets?
Take Me In was an engrossing read right from the beginning and is narrated by Marcus and Tessa alternatively. While the story has a setup of a psychological thriller, the second half read more like a domestic drama as we learn about the family dynamic and the secrets the Nicholsons are keeping from each other. Dave felt more like a smokescreen because we don't really know what his motives are until the end, which I think is the intention. Truth be told, he is the main purpose which keep me reading as I find the Nicholsons to be selfish and annoying. But I think what bothered me most is the ending, for I couldn't understand the logic behind the revelation as it seemed rushed and appear out of nowhere, which was a pity since the first half was brilliant and well written. That said, I want to read her previous book, Lie With Me, which I understand has received many good reviews.
Josh and Hazel's Guide to Not Dating by Christina ...

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


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text:
2015 Saleen S302 Mustang Specs Revealed
ford | mustang | saleen | September 24, 2014
With their latest teaser image, Saleen reminds us that they're not just working on electric cars these days, but they're still doing what made them great, tuning and modding Mustangs. The 2015 Saleen S302 Mustang still hasn't been shown in detail, but here's what we now know about this amped-up pony car…
You'll be able to choose from three main variants: White Label, with 450hp and 410 lb.-ft. of torque, Yellow Label, with a supercharger-driven 640hp and 565 lb.-ft. of torque, or the Black Label, which has the same power as Yellow, but a number of styling and aero upgrades.
In the fastback version, you'll get a scenic panoramic glass roof, while the convertible version gets a windscreen, style bar, and other upgrades from the base Ford model. All three models get a high performance exhaust system, upgraded springs, swaybar pivot bushings, 20″ 5-spoke alloy wheels, a high-downforce rear wing, and ZR-rated tires. Go for the Black Label, and you'll get a cooling-enhanced front fascia, with radiator and brake intakes, LED marker lamps, Saleen's "Red Butterfly" induction hood, side skirts with brake air intakes, and an upgraded rear fascia with integrated exhaust and LED race lamps. You'll also have the option of numerous custom metallic and pearl paints for the Black Label model.
Inside, you'll get Saleen's signature white-face gauges, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, Saleen-badged floor mats, headrests, and stainless sillplates. Upgrade to the Black Label, and you'll get leather and Alcantara performance seats, illuminated sill plates, and a Saleen signed dash plaque.
Saleen is likely to show a completed car at this November's SEMA show in Las Vegas. In the mean time, you can reserve a car with a deposit of at least $2,015(USD) here. Final pricing for the completed cars has yet to be announced.


text:
Q: OpenGL 2d drawing facing the user I have an OpenGL scene in which the user can rotate the camera. I have some two dimensional shapes that I would like to always face the user. I do have the forward facing vector, and I do have the screen point at which the component should be drawn. I'm not sure the best way to approach this problem - should I be rotating the shape to the forward vector (which I'm not entirely sure how to do correctly)? Or is there another way I can just draw in two dimensions and ignore the rotation of the camera (maybe by using an orthographic projection)? Any sample code for helping with this would be appreciated.
PS - I'm doing this in Java, but the language is irrelevant here (it is just OpenGL specific).

A: I already answered it in Inverting rotation in 3D, to make an object always face the camera?

A: My first though is to use the "gluLookAt" matrix.
http://www.opengl.org/resources/faq/technical/viewing.htm
I would say, that you keep the position of the 2d objects, and then take the "eye" or camera position and set that as the target value for the 2d objects.  It should keep them facing the camera.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


A kind gesture can go a long way; that's what students at Andrew Muller Primary School (AMPS) in Miller Place are learning as they continue spreading kindness throughout the building. Students and staff recently celebrated "Kindness Day," a busy day filled with team building activities to promote unity and kindness.
To kick off the day, each student had a unique grand entrance—they entered the classroom doors either performing a high five, twirl, dance move, hug, or big smile. Teachers facilitated a morning meeting to discuss kindness and the legacy and message of Dr. Martin Luther King—how he wanted everyone to have equal rights and to be treated based on the kind of person they were, not what they looked like. Kindergarteners began the day with Mem Fox's Whoever You Are, a book that urges readers to accept individual differences, to recognize similarities and most importantly to rejoice in both. First graders read The Crayon Box That Talked, a story that discusses cooperation and the beauty of working together. Margery Cuyler's and Sachiko Yoshikawa's Kindness Is Cooler, Mrs. Ruler was read with second grade classes to teach students a lesson on support and the golden rule: kindness is cool!
In each classroom, teachers facilitated several ice breaker activities to better familiarize students in different classes with one another. They discussed their favorite colors and foods, pets and siblings they have, and afterschool activities they participate in. Before lunch, the students created 'snowballs' out of paper with their names written at the center. The snowballs were placed in a bucket for students to randomly select from and then share something nice about that student with the class. After reading Dr. Seuss' The Sneetches, each student cut out a hand on construction paper to write gestures they can do to make the world a better place. Responses included smile, hug, tell a joke, and give a compliment. To conclude Kindness Day, AMPS's students and staff gathered in three concentric circles for a building wide sing along of "Count On Me" by Bruno Mars.
For more information about the Miller Place School District, please visit the District's website atwww.millerplace.k12.ny.us.
Miller Place School District (MPSD) recently held a special assembly at North Country Road Middle School to raise awareness of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Mr. Chris Pendergast, a Miller Place native and courageous fighter of ALS, returned to the district to speak with students about his journey over the last 25 years.
North Country Road Middle School's students in sixth, seventh, and eighth grade listened attentively to Mr. Pendergast's story about his advocacy efforts and how his devotion and perseverance inspired the Ride for Life organization, a charity that raises money and awareness for ALS/Lou Gehrig's Disease. The presentation honed in on an important message for students to never give up and overcoming the odds. Students were also amazed by Mr. Pendergast's ability to utilize advanced technology equipment to type using his eyes and speak through a computerized voice.
For the last 25 years, students and educators across Long Island and New York City have helped Mr. Pendergast raise more than $7 million for research and patient services. This year alone, the Miller Place School District has worked together to raise more than $5,500 for the organization through different initiatives including Kick Out ALS and Spirit Week.
The Miller Place School District's North Country Road Middle School is thrilled to recognize four exceptional students—Christopher Barton, grade 7; Leo Lin, grade 8; Russell Platt, grade 7; and Lilah Lindemann, grade 8—who were recently invited to compete in the annual American Mathematics Competition for eighth graders.
Christopher, NCRMS's top scorer of the competition, earned a gold medal in addition to an honor roll certificate for scoring in the top 5% of the competition nationwide. Lilah was also recognized as one of NCRMS's highest scorers and received a silver medal for her accomplishment. Leo and Russell's hard work and dedication earned them each a well-deserved spot in third place—both took home a bronze medal for their scores.
The AMC 8 competition is designed for middle school students and its purpose is to provide an opportunity for 8th graders to demonstrate their knowledge and ability in the area of mathematics. Students participate in a 25-question, 40-minute multiple choice examination designed to promote the development and enhancement of problem solving skills. Congratulations to all involved, with a special thank you to Mrs. Maureen Radday, math teacher at NCRMS, for all of her efforts in providing this opportunity for our students.
The Miller Place School District recently recognized 12 students from Miller Place High School for their random acts of kindness and stellar educational achievement. Students either received an Outstanding Acts of Kindness (OAK) or Outstanding Academic Recognition (OAR) award at a breakfast in the presence of family and friends.
Students who qualify for the OAK award have been "caught" in the act of being great by displaying selfless behavior. One example is when a student helps a peer or faculty member in need with no expectation of material return. These students demonstrate the sense of spirit the District aims to achieve throughout the school community and serve as role models for others in the building. Recipients of the OAK award this year include Tristan Bailey, Jake Froese, David Miekley, Mary Rozensky, Jack Soldano, and Christopher Waldemar.
To meet the requirements for the OAR award, students must distinguish themselves as academic inspirations and have successfully risen to the educational challenges presented to them. These students either met long-term goals or are students who have exhibited commendable improvement. This year's recipients include Alexis Biscardi, Dylan Flerx, Charlotte Gann, Ann Marie McNulty, Lily Newman, Emma Walsh.
The Andrew Muller Primary School (AMPS) in the Miller Place School District will be holding Kindergarten registration from Monday, March 25, 2019 through Friday, March 29, 2019 from 9:45 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Registration is by appointment only. Parents are asked to call the AMPS main office at 631-474-2715 to schedule an appointment.
Parents interested in registering a child or children to enter kindergarten during the 2019-2020 school year must ensure each child has met all age and health requirements mandated by New York State. Information and required forms are available online on the District website. Parents should print out these forms, complete them in full and bring them with all required documentation to the scheduled appointment.
Only children who will be five years old on or before December 1, 2019 and are residents of the Miller Place School District are eligible for registration. New York State current mandated immunizations include: 3-4 Polio (IPV), 4-5 DPT (DTaP/DTP), three Measles/Mumps/Rubella (MMR), three Hepatitis B, two MMR and two Varicella. Parents should also bring each child's current immunization record to registration.
New York State law requires that all prospective students complete a physical examination within one year prior to the first day of school, and the completed examination form must be submitted to the AMPS Health Office no later than August 22, 2019.
The mission of the Miller Place Union Free School District is to educate all students to their fullest potential by providing opportunities for learning that are challenging and effective. This education will enable all students to master the knowledgeable skills, strategies, and attitudes necessary to become lifelong learners and responsible citizens.
The Miller Place School District has an enrollment of 3,200 students in grade K-12, an enrollment that has been steadily increasing over recent years. The educational programs and services offered to Miller Place students underlines the District's mission for academic excellence and the invested interest in the development and success of each individual student.
Visit the "In the Media" section to stay up-to-date on all the accomplishments of our students and the initiatives and events in Miller Place schools.


January 2018 sees the launch of a new mobile osteopath service in Bedfordshire. Deborah is a very experienced osteopath who recently left a clinic in Shefford. She has been providing mobile osteopathy in North London for a few years and is now expanding the service to Bedfordshire.
Mobile osteopathy is very easy. You can simply book an appointment online. Deborah will bring her couch to your home. No travelling, no finding parking – saving you time and so convenient. Simple.


text:
Les guerres sacrées sont une série de guerres menées par l'amphictyonie chargée d'administrer le sanctuaire d'Apollon à Delphes contre tous ceux considérés comme sacrilèges envers le dieu.

Première guerre sacrée (environ 600-590 av. J.-C.)

Au début du  eut lieu la première guerre sacrée, que l'on retrouve dans les sources sous le nom d'agôn de Kirrha ou de Krissa, guerre qui opposait les Amphictyons à la cité de Kirrha. Cette dernière se situait sur une île au sud-ouest du sanctuaire. La cause de cette guerre était la volonté de l'amphictyonie pylaio-delphique de contrôler la « terre sacrée » d'Apollon (ou « plaine de Kirrha »). Cette guerre aboutit à la destruction totale de Kirrha. C'est après cela que naquirent les premiers jeux pythiques.

Des chercheurs remettent en cause, non l'historicité du conflit, mais certains faits rapportés dans les sources. Ainsi, la durée de ce conflit - dix ans -, ou encore l'intervention de Solon, tiendraient plus du mythe que de la réalité.

Selon les sources datant d'après la guerre, celle-ci aurait débuté à la suite d'attaques sur des pèlerins du sanctuaire de Delphes par des habitants de Kirrha. Le conseil des Amphictyons voulut punir ces derniers. L'expédition de représailles fut notamment dirigée par les Thessaliens Eurylochos et Hippias. Les Athéniens participèrent aussi en envoyant un corps d'armée sous la direction d'Alcméon. Le tyran de Sicyone Clisthène décida de bloquer la ville par la mer. Les terres de la ville furent interdites à toute culture et dédiées au pâturage des animaux à sacrifier en l'honneur d'Apollon, Artémis, Léto et Athéna Pronaia. Les habitants de Kirrha se réfugièrent sur la montagne du Kirphis, jusqu'à ce que les dernières formes de résistance soient écrasées cinq ans plus tard.

Pausanias évoque le rôle important qu'aurait joué Solon dans la victoire. Il aurait détourné le cours du Pleistos qui traversait la cité, puis y aurait versé des racines d'elleyoros, avant de le détourner de nouveau. Les habitants de Kirrha auraient alors bu l'eau, celle-ci leur causant une diarrhée incessante au point de les contraindre à abandonner leur muraille.

Vers la fin du , la réputation de l'oracle de Delphes était telle que cela explique la volonté de certaines cités d'en avoir le contrôle. La première guerre sacrée et la restructuration de l'Amphictyonie ont fait de Delphes le point de prédilection pour la rencontre des ennemis lors des guerres. Comme on peut le voir grâce aux sources archéologiques, les présences d'Athènes et d'autres cités ioniennes à Delphes s'accentuent fortement au

Deuxième guerre sacrée (448 av. J.-C.)

En 457, à la suite de la bataille d'Oinofyta, les Athéniens, contrôlant la Béotie et la Phocide, décidèrent de détacher la ville de Delphes de l'Amphictyonie pour la livrer aux Phocidiens. L'objectif en était de permettre aux Phocidiens de contrôler le sanctuaire en ayant la Promantie (ordre de passage déterminé par les prêtres). On date le moment où le sanctuaire revient aux Phocidiens à l'aide des monnaies en argent portant la tête d'Apollon ainsi qu'une lyre ou un lierre.

Sparte, souhaitant aussi la Promantie, réagit : la deuxième guerre sacrée entre Sparte et Athènes éclata ainsi en 448. L'expression « guerres sacrées » apparaît chez Thucydide à ce moment-là. Cette guerre ne dura pas très longtemps et est principalement racontée par Thucydide. Il écrit que les Spartiates envoyèrent une armée à Delphes pour y rétablir la cité dans son état antérieur. Mais à la suite de cela, Périclès entreprit à son tour une campagne à Delphes et rendit la cité aux Phocidiens. Plutarque confirme ce qui concerne Périclès dans les Vies Parallèles.

Troisième guerre sacrée (356-346 av. J.-C.)

La troisième guerre sacrée est évoquée par Eschine et Démosthène. L'expression apparaît bien plus tard chez Diodore. Elle débuta en 362 lorsque les Thébains accusèrent les Phocidiens de sacrilège auprès du conseil amphictyonique, car ils avaient cultivé une partie des champs sacrés de Delphes. La sanction, prononcée à l'automne 357, fut sévère : une amende de 500 talents. Les Spartiates furent condamnés à une amende identique pour l'occupation militaire de la Cadmée, vingt-cinq ans auparavant. Ni les uns ni les autres ne purent ni ne voulurent réunir ce montant, qui fut alors doublé pour les Phocidiens. C'est alors qu'intervint Philomélos, originaire de la ville de Lédon, qui persuada les Phocidiens de résister et d'occuper Delphes, pour annuler cette décision. Il fut alors élu général et alla chercher de l'aide chez les Spartiates, ces derniers étant des ennemis des Thébains depuis longtemps. Ils apportèrent aux Phocidiens une aide financière s'élevant à quinze talents d'or avec laquelle ces derniers financèrent leur armée et occupèrent Delphes. Ils fortifièrent la ville et détruisirent la stèle sur laquelle était gravée la sanction.

Mais les membres du Conseil amphictyonique, dont Thèbes occupait la tête, déclarèrent la guerre aux Phocidiens. C'est alors que se nouèrent des alliances au sein des deux camps : les Athéniens et les Spartiates rejoignirent le camp phocidien, contrairement aux Thessaliens et Corinthiens qui s'allièrent aux Thébains. En 354, après avoir repoussé les Locriens d'Amphissa, qui avaient tenté de prendre le sanctuaire, Philomélos livra bataille près de Tithorée contre les Béotiens et fut tué. Onomarchos lui succéda et refonda l'armée avec l'aide des trésors delphiques. Il réunit une puissante armée de mercenaires et fortifia l'ensemble des villes phocidiennes. Il se tourna alors vers la Thessalie, tentant de la désorganiser en soutenant les tyrans de Phères contre les Larissiens. Ces derniers appelèrent alors Philippe II, roi de Macédoine, à leur aide, provoquant ainsi pour la première fois l'intervention des Macédoniens dans la région.

L'armée de Philippe II connut tout d'abord une défaite en 353. Mais elle remporta en 353 ou en 352, la bataille du Champ de Crocus près du golfe Pagasétique . Onomarchos fut tué et son corps traité comme sacrilège par Philippe, ce dernier se présentant comme le défenseur d'Apollon. Perçu comme libérateur de la tyrannie de Phères, Philippe II fut élu archôn à vie de la Confédération thessalienne. Il démarra alors une conquête de la Phocide, en Grèce du sud. Les Athéniens s'en inquiétèrent. Ils intervinrent aux Thermopyles et stoppèrent l'avancée macédonienne. Les Phocidiens, alors dirigés par Phalaicos, parvinrent à préserver leur occupation.

Cependant, en 346 av. J.-C., les Athéniens conclurent avec les Macédoniens la paix de Philocratès. Ce texte ne disait rien des Phocidiens, les laissant à la merci de Philippe. Phalaicos capitula. Philippe prit possession de la Phocide, mais laissa au conseil amphictyonique la tâche de punir les Phocidiens. Une lourde pénalité leur fut alors imposée : ils durent payer annuellement une amende de soixante talents afin de rembourser les trésors delphiques, et furent également dépourvus de leurs deux sièges au Conseil amphictyonique au profit des Macédoniens. Philippe II sort donc renforcé de cette guerre, dominant Delphes avec ses alliés thessaliens. C'est lui qui, en tant qu'hegèmôn du monde grec, présida les Jeux pythiques de l'automne 346.

Quatrième guerre sacrée (339-338 av. J.-C.)

Les origines de la quatrième guerre sacrée remontent à la reconstruction du sanctuaire d'Apollon, lors de laquelle les Athéniens érigèrent à nouveau la dédicace par laquelle ils accusaient les Thébains de médisme après les guerres médiques. Lors du conseil amphictyonique de 340 avant J.-C., les Thébains, ainsi que les Locriens d'Amphissa, proposèrent de condamner les Athéniens à une amende de cinquante talents, au motif que le rétablissement d'une dédicace de l'époque où Delphes était contrôlé par les Phocidiens était une impiété. Cependant Eschine, le représentant athénien, démontra que les habitants d'Amphissa avaient mis en culture les champs sacrés de Delphes, les accusant ainsi de sacrilège.

Le conseil amphictyonique confia le commandement de la campagne à Philippe II, qui prit Amphisse et affronta une coalition des villes du sud, comprenant notamment Athènes et Thèbes, lors de la bataille de Chéronée en août 338 avant J.C. Ce fut une victoire écrasante de Philippe II. Thèbes capitula et se vit imposer une garnison macédonienne et un régime oligarchique. Athènes, où Philippe envoya Phocion en ambassade, se vit proposer un armistice qui lui était favorable. Philippe n'y imposa pas de garnison et ne changea pas le système politique en place. Il organisa ensuite à l'hiver 338 avant J.-C. le congrès de Corinthe où il imposa une paix commune et une perte d'autonomie des cités.

Notes et références

Sources antiques
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Bibliographie
 P. Brulé et R. Descat, Le monde grec aux temps classiques, Tome 2, Le , Paris, PUF, 2004.
 T-F. Catherine, Villes fortifiées de Phocide et la  guerre sacrée (356-346 av. J.-C.), Presses Universitaires de France, Paris, 2005
 Paul Cloché, Études chronologiques sur la  guerre sacrée (356-346 avant J-C), numéro 29-135, , Revue des études grecques, Paris, 1916.
 Paul Cloché, Le monde grec aux temps classiques 500-336 avant J-C, Payot, Paris, 1958.
 J-N. Corvisier, Philippe II de Macédoine, Paris, Fayard, 2002.
 P. Guillon, Études Béotiennes : Le bouclier d'Héraclès et l'histoire de la Grèce centrale dans la période de la première guerre sacrée, Éditions Ophrys, janvier, 1963.
 J. Jannoray Krisa Jean, « Kirrha et la première guerre sacrée », Bulletin de correspondance hellénique, , Paris, 1937.
 M. Jost, « Guerre et religion », Revue Pallas, 51/1999, Guerres et sociétés dans les mondes grecs à l'époque classique, .
 N. Kyriakidis, « De l'importance de ne pas être phocidien », Pallas, 87 | 2011, .
 F. Lefèvre, « L'Amphictionie de Delphes : mythe et réalité », Cahiers du Centre Gustave Glotz, 1995.
 F. Lefèvre, L'amphictionie pyléo-delphique : histoire et institutions, Paris, 1998.
 Guy Rachet, Delphes, Collection : Les hauts lieux de la spiritualité, Robert Laffont, Paris, novembre 1985.
 F. Ruzé, M-C. Amouretti, P. Jockey, Le monde grec antique, Vanves, Hachette, 2017
 .
 Édouard Will, Le monde grec et l'Orient, Le  (510-403), Presses universitaires de France, Paris, 1958.
 .
  G. Cawkwell, Philip of Macedon, Faber & Faber, London, Boston, 1978.

Article connexe
 Guerre du Péloponnèse

Liens externes

Sacrees
Guerre impliquant la Macédoine antique
Conflit du IVe siècle av. J.-C.
Conflit du Ve siècle av. J.-C.
Conflit du VIe siècle av. J.-C.
Conflit du VIIe siècle av. J.-C.


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Remarks by Dr. Timothy P. White – March 9, 2016
Chancellor, California State University
CSU Board of Trustees Meeting – Chancellor's Report
Thank you, Chair Monville.
I again congratulate the two candidates chosen to lead Cal State Channel Islands and Chico State, Erika Beck and Gayle Hutchinson… and to thank our dedicated and accomplished retiring presidents, Dick Rush and Paul Zingg.
I'd like to also congratulate Cal State San Marcos professor, Joely Proudfit, for her recent appointment by President Obama to the National Advisory Council on Indian Education.
Dr. Proudfit is the chair of the American Indian Studies department… and has served as director of the California Indian Culture and Sovereignty Center since 2009. I know that Joely will represent the CSU, our Native American communities, and all Californians, well.
A few weeks ago, I was pleased to join President Ochoa and the Cal State Monterey Bay community as they celebrated the naming of the 58,000 square foot Joel and Dena Gambord Business and Information Technology Building… and in turn, celebrate the largest eight-figure philanthropic gift received in the university's 22 year history.
The Gambord's generosity will help accelerate Cal State Monterey Bay in many innovative ways, including in computer science education… including the computer science-in-3 degree program, a unique partnership with the local Hartnell Community College that encourages students from the Monterey and Salinas Valley regions to earn a bachelor's degree in three calendar years and pursue careers in IT, software engineering and more knowledge-based careers.
There is perhaps no bigger story in the scientific universe than last month's announcement of the detection of gravitational waves – a historic discovery consistent with Albert Einstein's century-old theory of relativity.
Several Cal State Fullerton and Sonoma State professors and students are among a group of more than 1,000 scientists from universities in the United States and around the world who played significant roles in the research carried out by the Laser Interferometer Gravitational Wave Observatory Scientific Collaboration.
Just a few days after this historic, world-changing announcement, I was fortunate to meet with the faculty and staff from Fullerton's Gravitational Wave Physics and Astronomy Center who, along with six graduate students, took part in the global collaboration.
They joined 2016 Wang Award winner and Sonoma State Professor Lynn Cominsky, who we learned about at last meeting in producing a classroom guide on this historic and life-altering discovery.
An incredible achievement… and the Fullerton, Sonoma and entire CSU community should be immensely proud.
Recently, I joined campus presidents and university leaders at African American churches and places of worship across the state during one of our Super Sunday outreach events…
I was honored to join President Morishita, Bishop Bob Jackson and the congregation at the Acts Full Gospel Church in Oakland… and my message to students and families was that you can go to college – and the CSU has the tools, resources and knowledge to help you along the way.
Yet, I also pressed this even more vital point: We need you to go to college.
It's a point I drive home every time I meet with prospective students and their families across the state.
We know that our projected need for bachelor's graduates, confirmed by the Public Policy Institute and so many others… is very real and very pressing. If current trends in the labor market persist – and many experts believe that they will – California will face a shortage of 1.1 million bachelor's educated workers… by the time today's first-graders are completing college.
The CSU will bear much of the responsibility in getting us to the additional 1.1 million by 2030… and we are already working towards that goal as you learned yesterday.
I am pleased by many of the findings from yesterday's presentations that indicate that our current freshman class is the largest – and best prepared for success - in the history of the California State University.
Only with our partners in K-14 and in Sacramento can we build the capacity necessary to secure California's future.
It will require us to redouble our efforts in Sacramento, coming together as a united front to tell our story and make the case for renewed investment in our students, faculty and staff…
And with greater success with our partners, it will allow us to enroll more qualified Californians than ever before… putting the proverbial pineapple back up in the window sill… President Coley knows what I'm talking about… and declare that yes, there is room at the inn for all those qualified and willing to do the work.
Lastly, I wish to update this board on our Project Rebound partnership… a special admissions pilot initiative providing higher education opportunities for formerly incarcerated people on parole or on probation.
Today, San Francisco State provides the home and leadership for Project Rebound, whose core mission is simple… Education as an alternative to incarceration.
I'm happy to announce that Project Rebound plans to add an additional seven campuses this fall – Bakersfield, Fresno, Fullerton, Pomona, Sacramento, San Bernardino and San Diego – adding these campuses in order to serve prospective students in these regions throughout the state… where approximately 70 percent of the incarcerated and justice-supervised individuals in California reside.
Our ability to do this, however, will be dependent on significant funding from the Ford Foundation through the Opportunity Institute.
Thanks to the interest and leadership of Trustee Norton, President Wong and Project Rebound director Jason Bell… plus many other faculty and staff… we are a finalist for a seven-figure grant.
And if funded, the Chancellor's Office will provide a direct financial investment – as well as in-kind efforts from the campuses – each year the renewable reward is received.
Please join me in thanking Larry, Les and Jason
Chair Monville, that concludes my report.


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Weird Al's "most full-blown, over-the-top" 2019 tour will feature a symphony orchestra in every city
Randall Colburn
Filed to:Weird Al Yankovic
Photo: Paul McConnell (Getty Images)
"Weird Al" Yankovic proved (yet again) that he's much more than a parody artist this year when he embarked on the "Ridiculously Self-Indulgent, Ill-Advised Vanity Tour," which found the "Eat It" singer playing a series of stripped-down shows packed with original material. Now, he's back not just to his old tricks, but a characteristically outrageous version of them by announcing that his next tour will feature a full symphony orchestra at every stop. You know that means: So. Much. Polka.
The North American "Strings Attached" tour kicks off sometime in 2019, with the full itinerary dropping on November 12. Yankovic promises he'll be "PLAYING THE HITS" in an Instagram post announcing the tour, which he says will also feature "deep cuts" that he and his band have never played before. "We're going directly from my most scaled-down, low-key show ever... to my most full-blown, over-the-top extravaganza ever," he wrote, explaining that the players will be sourced from each city he visits, even if that means "putting together our own orchestra with local musicians."
He'll also, for the first time ever, be backed by a trio of female background singers, meaning we'll likely get a full-throated rendition of "I Need A Nap," his delightful duet with Kate Winslet.
See the full post below.
Tickets go on sale on Friday, November 16, just a few days after Yankovic will announce the tour's dates.
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Randall Colburn is The A.V. Club's Internet Culture Editor. He lives in Chicago, occasionally writes plays, and was a talking head in Best Worst Movie, the documentary about Troll 2.