For the (very small) minority of people who was NOT on holidays last week, when most of the people in France (and in Europe) were, it has felt like living in an end-of-the-world movie, wandering around a city with most of the local stores closed, free parking spots everywhere and, for the lucky ones, the temporary closing of the bar in front of my window doing karaoke nights every single day.
As I have been traveling a lot this year I had no holidays left for the Summer (although I managed to travel inside France and go to the beach a few days in July and August) hence I have been stuck in Paris for the most scary week of the year: the week of the 15th of August, which is a National Holiday but also the period where most of French people are on Holiday at the same time.
Which could mean getting in the generally very crowded bar without queuing or not needing to book a table for your Sunday Brunch in a popular Parisian restaurant. Except, most of these places were closed too, hence you might end up wandering around, asking yourself how you are going to occupy your time with no food, no shopping, no friends in town. Luckily enough my men (my BF and brother) were stuck with me and, after two minimal working days on Monday and Tuesday we decided to celebrate Wednesday off with a Brunch in the center of Paris, mostly because I thought it would be the place with the highest concentration of restaurants, hence the highest chance to find one open, hence to eat.
We went in rue Montorgueil, a beautiful and crowded pedestrian street near Chatelet and because we really had nothing else planned (the joys of a lazy Summer), we decided to walk there, from our apartment outside Paris, which took us around two hours back and forth.
Actually I have been trying to walk as much as possible these days, mostly because I basically don't move from my chair at work, but also because it is a great time to talk. Instead of going out and drinking it can be done daily with different friends, boyfriend, family on the phone. It is cheaper than going out and it can really be part of a daily exercise routine. Plus there is no reason why it cannot end with a drink!
Then, after the most amazing meal we went slowly home, happy about this calm and revitalizing day.
Then after 2 short days of work, the week-end started with a big night out with some friends we hadn't seen in months, followed by an early rise to attend an outside-Paris BBQ with some old colleagues. It felt weird that after a short train ride we arrived in the middle of the countryside. Now that we are looking to buy a house we are thinking more and more about going a little bit outside the city, to have a bigger house, some land and many choices for outdoors activities. But we are not there yet although we feel older and wiser to even consider it.
Anyways August is coming to an end which is good in a way as I will be glad that some things start moving again (like our search for an apartment) but personally, I have been very happy about this slow period, it has given me time to think and to prepare September's rush. I have also been reading & watching a lot of Netflix, including a very weird, politically incorrect show called Insatiable which started as a regular Teenage Show about a former overweight girl turned beauty queen (with a horrible self-centered personality) and ended as a hilarious but traumatizing TV show criticizing all stereotypes and bringing up a lot of very controversial subjects.
Meanwhile, reading the French equivalent of "The Art of Not giving a F***k" (called Foutez-vous la paix et commencez à vivre by Fabrice Midal ) confirmed some important things I often think about.
First of all that I kind of am already doing what the book is all about, aka being comfortable with whatever I choose to do and being kind to myself although I am not yet the person I wish to be because I know I am trying my best (even if sometimes it means taking some time off). I had the great ambition to build a new business this year, but clearly it hasn't shaped into anything. However, I also told myself that I have compiled tons of ideas on Trello, I have traveled, I have met a lot of new people who has opened a lot of opportunities, I have cumulated great couple memories, I have been all around town to visit apartments to buy, I have been successful at my "real" job. Not everything has been a success but no work has been wasted, it will come to use in the end, maybe not as I expect. Results come in different forms.
If I am already in this place of acceptance it is because all self-improvement books (and I have read many) are about getting back on track by thinking about yourself first, by loving and accepting yourself and believing that you are doing your best right now. Self-empathy will always get you to a better place: even if you have done terrible things you need to forgive and redeem yourself because what is done is done and there is only a way forward.
It doesn't mean to just be content of whatever you do, but if you are already in a state of mind where you want your best, you need to chill and be patient and not hate yourself for mistakes and slowness. Life won't always go as you want even if you do your best. Accept it, keep trying and if you need to rest just do it. Ambition is good if it is who you are and it gives you what you want, but it will destroy you if you do it for others. At some point your real needs will come up and you will have a midlife crisis. I am paraphrasing a lot but basically thinking about what you want and acting on it (action can also be patience) will bring happiness as you won't just run head first into ambitions that weren't yours.
Another major point is that whatever you decide, whatever happens, stick with your decision, especially if it is too late to do anything about it, or it will eat you from the inside. My mom gave me this book, which she has allegedly read, and unfortunately that is exactly (still) her problem: regrets. She has an extraordinary life, filled with a great job that makes her travel all around the world, she has recognition, so she should be proud of herself in many ways. She is terrible at negotiation so she basically does incredible work for free, but passion is what moves her, although at the end of the day she regrets not having more money as a way to being free and safe for the upcoming years. And that makes me sad, to see all the positive and seeing how she concentrates on the bad, the things she cannot change but also the things she can but wont.
I guess my chance is that often, children who have been marked by some of their parents strong character traits will do the exact opposite as adults and that's what has often given me the stubbornness to forget about something I couldn't forgive me for. Reading and thinking about self-improvement books has made me understand the importance of it and I wish to get the message through my mother one day!


text:
Preview: Wigan Athletic vs Aston Villa
By HeapyLatic Feb 23, 2012, 2:16pm GMT
Share All sharing options for: Preview: Wigan Athletic vs Aston Villa
Robbie Keane of Aston Villa reacts during the FA Cup with Budweiser Fourth Round match between Arsenal and Aston Villa at Emirates Stadium.
Well two weeks ago, we looked down and dusted. We need a pick up, and a win against our local rivals would surely set spirits and moral soaring. None expected the lads to pull off one their best performances, and go out and win the game 2-1 and more comfortably than the score line suggested.
Yet again it was out inability to score that caused the score line to remain low. Yet the signs are there that we are starting to stir and we might be able to slow and surely raise our game, and get our heads out of the drop zone. Now we have four points in our last two games, now it is the time for the lads to stand tall and gain our second home win of the season.
As I say that it sounds bit hollow. Only won one at home all season. How have we managed that. We have been great at home most of the time, and have manged to pull of some great results against Chelsea and Liverpool. Both gaining draws. Yet we have only gained seven home points all season.
Coming into the second half of the season, with two home games back to back, not getting results at home could really hurt us. So we start now.
Time for us to get behind the lads and shout to the end of our lungs and show them we care. We need the atmosphere to be bouncing, to urge them on to great performances and great results. After all winning is all that matters.
So to Aston Villa. The game will be the return of a certain Charles N'Zogbia who has been very poor this season. Hardly rising to the dizzy heights that he did at his time here at Wigan. Yet a game against his former employees with a point to prove could be dangerous.
Yet it isn't the winger I see as a threat to Wigan.
It is the Villan's Irish striker who I see will cause the damage for Wigan. Robbie Keane as always been a quality player. No matter where he has been. He scores goals, and he loan spell at Aston Villa this winter has been no exception.
Keane now 31 who is on loan from LA Galaxy has been a brilliant player for them scoring three goals in five games for them, and he has been able to re-kindle Villa's attacking style, and he is likely to want to see out his loan spell with a bang.
I hope that it is one of his dry days in front of goal.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


Chapter 7 Does drug education make any difference?
Chapter 8 Can drug classification and drug policy ever be evidence-based?
There are many different views on the best way to reduce drug-related problems. Drugs are controversial. Opinions on the best way to deal with them cover the entire spectrum from legalization to tight controls backed up by severe penalties. In fact most of the 'official' and public debate about drug policy reflects the view that drugs are intrinsically 'bad' and should somehow be controlled. The authors of this book do not wish to embrace any particular approach to drug control. They do not believe that any single known approach is a magic solution, offering a panacea to something as complex and multi-faceted as drug use and its associated adverse effects. Even so, it is hoped that this chapter will provide an insight into some of the debates and arguments that relate to the nature and status of drug use and the options that are available with which to respond to it. It might also be possible to envisage ways of mitigating the damaging consequences outlined in the previous chapter without having to embark on a political crusade or to turn around the juggernaut of international condemnation of drug use and drug users.


Let's begin with the first example. In this one, we're going to make use of ColdFusion, HTML, and jQuery. jQuery will be used to notice form changes and will pass it off to the server. The server will simply copy this data to the session scope. The form will be made so that it notices this session information and will make use of it. With me so far? While this is ColdFusion specific, it could be done in other languages using the same techniques I'll employ here. First, the form. It's a bit big, so after the code I'll explain whats going on.
Let's talk about the bottom half of this template first. The very last line is simply a debugging tag, cfdump. Since I'm storing information in the Session scope, I wanted a quick way to actually look at it while testing. I decided to keep it in the demo that you guys will play with. Above this is the form. Nothing special here, but do note the use of ColdFusion values for the form fields. This is mostly just simple values, but for the Genre field we check against a list of data.
Finally, the top portion of the code is what's handling the initial defaults. It's a bit more verbose then I'd like, but essentially we look into the Session scope for our values, and if there, set our defaults. Real quick, let's look at the CFC that handles storage.
Initially I had something much simpler - convert from JSON to native data and store. It was 2 lines of logic. But the array is a bit hard to deal with on the flip side. We have N items since our user may fill out one or more genre fields. Converting to a structure allows me to have a nicer way to access the data. The only "weird" part perhaps is the logic that says, "If I store more than one value for a key, turn it into an array." I could have used a List, but didn't want to assume commas wouldn't exist.
Ok - that's draft 1. How about a version that requires no server (for persistence) but instead makes use of SessionStorage? (In case folks don't know, SessionStorage is the version of LocalStorage that doesn't last. Think of LocalStorage as fruitcake and SessionStorage as milk.) I've reduced this form just to one file now.
The primary area you want to look at is the code block. Let's look first at the second section - our event handler. It's been modified now to simply store the JSON string into sessionStorage. In theory I should check to see if that exists, but almost all browsers support local/sessionStorage, even IE. Yes, even IE. And shoot, if IE supports a feature you almost have to use it.
Now scroll up a bit. The block of code there will run when the page loads (and the DOM is ready). If we see a sessionStorage value, we then grab it, convert it, and update our form. I'm not terribly happy with the code in the loop there as it's very specific. You would have to update this for another form, but I'm not building a plugin here so I'm ok with hard coded values.
So - which version is better? The HTML5 one, right?


Providing comprehensive enrollment and referral services to new and returning Veterans and their families.
PAVE offers peer support and individual attention to veterans, who typically are older than traditional students, and helps them make the transition from military life to college life.
For veterans who are transitioning from active duty and/or reserve status to the classroom. Learn more.


WELCOME TO REHBERGER'S BIRD DOGS BLOG!
Here you can find tips and a information about dog care and updates about our hunting labs.
Our Red Fox and Yellow Labradors are of the finest bird dogs in Brainerd, Minnesota. We provide service throughout the central midwest. We run a full service kennel with quality bred dogs. All our dogs are CERTIFIED and VACCINATED. Our dogs have obedience training, excellent hunting skills, and can retrieve upland game, waterfowl and antler sheds. See our STUD DOGS, SHED DOGS and PUPPIES pages for more info.


I read somewhere that this was Baron Eric de Rothschild everyday red. I picked up a few bottles ($15-18)... Very nice bordeaux that can't be beat for the money.
No offense, but I doubt that any Rothschild drinks Barons de Lafite except for marketing purposes. It's not objectionable in any way, of course, but there are two kinds of wines -- wines that must be aged before they'll taste like there supposed to and wines that are meant to be drunk young -- and red Bordeaux is the first kind. Any red Bordeaux (or fine cabernet or fine red Burgundy or any of a number of other wines) that is made like it is supposed to be must be cellared for at least 10 years or it will just plain taste awful.
Many good wines in this category can be had for $25 or less. In ten years they're great wines. And expensive. The biggest cost component of a great old wine in a restaurant or liquor store is storage. The only way to have great Bordeaux for a reasonable price is to cellar it and drink it when it's ready.
But most people don't have cellars (although a temperature controlled storage unit isn't that expensive) so they should stick with the second kind of wine. But because they don't understand wine they are easy marks for these wines made in regions (like Bordeaux) that produce aging wines in a "style" for immediate consumption. The grapes are all wrong, the soil is all wrong, the climate is all wrong and the methods are all wrong. It's like buying a Mercedes motorcycle. There are plenty of wines with a history of optimal drinking when young.
There are lots of Italian wines that are very interesting and meant to be drunk young. Syrah/Shiraz from Australia is often vinified for no more than one year of aging. There are some wonderfully fruity zinfandels that are great young (although there are also plenty that need five years). Almost all American pinot noir is best within a couple of years, although a few (and the great red Burgundies) can improve for twenty.
Study and ask a decent merchant what wines are meant for drinking now. They are usually affordable and much more satisfying that an expensive wine drunk too young. A $400 first growth Bordeaux new release will be an unpleasant, astringent tannic experience that people with more dollars than sense pretend to enjoy. And a $15 Bordeaux from a first growth's marketing department is generally not as good a bet as a $8 Nebbiolo or a $12 zinfandel.
My wife and I enjoy Ruffino Chianti Classico, especially if we're dining Italian. It's somewhere between $15 and $20.
I had that Chianti when I was in Florence last year, and was happy to see it available in the States. Great choice!
I don't think I agree with a single sentence in your post. Have you visited bordeaux? If you ask for the marketing department of any first growth, they'd probably laugh you out the door! Secondly, Bordeaux wines aren't treated the same as Burgandy's. A young bordeaux is far from awful. When its too young, its too young but I would never categorize it anything less than that. In fact, I prefer Bordeaux's (even first growths) between 5-12 years because I like the mellowed tannins compared to little or none with older ones.
Great insights. I feel the same about Burgundy. American Pinot Noirs are more suitable to my palate.
I don't think I agree with a single sentence in your post. Have you visited bordeaux?
Many times. And a first growth from a decent year at 5-10 years is not ready. Period. An off year, sure. But what's the point?
Rosenblum Cellars Pickett Road Petite Sirah goes for $35 a bottle, but I found it at Costco for $15.
Rosenblum is located at 2900 Main Street, Suite 1100 Alameda, CA 94501 so they are pretty close to you. He just buys grapes from vineyards, most of his wines are rated over 90 points. He is famous for his Zins (20 different labels).
We mostly drink California wines, but also like Australian, New Zealand, German Riesling, and some Italian.
GQ has gone so far as to call this wine "one of the greatest, easiest-to-find, most viscerally satisfying values in the world of alcohol"
Note, they didnt even say 'world of wine', but 'world of alochol'.
Cost about $13 and I can attest that it is simply the best.
Because some people like tannins which are more apparent before it peaks.
Any one here home brew?


In celebration of Disability Awareness Month, Spindleworks Art Center and Spin Off Studios will present a collection of recent short animations at Frontier Cafe and Cinema 14 Maine Street in Brunswick. Audiences are invited to join in and watch "A Spindle in Motion", a 30-minute series exploring the evolution of animation projects created at Spindleworks and Spinoff Studios. Included short films were created using flipbooks, stop motion, and cutout animation techniques. Selections will also include artist Crank Sturgeon's collaboration with Spindleworks artists, which produced an animated montage of drawings created during residency this winter. A limited edition zine also produced during the residency will be available for sale.
As part of the matinee and evening screenings, Spindleworks will also present the 90-minute documentary film "Wretches and Jabberers", produced by Academy Award winning filmmaker Gerardine Wurzburg. Wurzburg's inspiring documentary chronicles the world travels of disability rights advocates, Tracy Thresher and Larry Bissonnette, in a bold quest to change attitudes about the intelligence and abilities of people with autism.
The entire program is open and free to the public, with donations welcome to cover the cost of the event and to support art programming at Spindleworks and SpinOff Studios. Contact Frontier Cafe at 725-5222 for ticket reservations. Frontier now also takes reservations for dinner so make an evening of it!


Never a shortage of belly-rubs to give!
Hi! I'm Ali, and together with my partner Dave, we would love to come take care of your house and pets! As of October 2018, we are new to Trusted Housesitters, but we do have a lot of experience outside of this website, having done a lot of house and pet-sitting for friends and relatives. We would be more than happy to meet with you in person (if it's a local house-sit) or have a chat on Skype first, so that we can get to know each other and feel comfortable with one another, before committing to the house/pet-sit.
Being an incredibly active couple, we would love nothing more than to have your pup join us outdoors, whether it's a long hike through the hills, or a short stroll through the neighbourhood. We would do whatever is in the best interest of your pet.
My previous volunteer experience includes walking and caring for dogs at our local Humane Society, and being a Big Sister with our local chapter of Big Brothers & Big Sisters. We are non-smokers and do not use drugs.
We look forward to meeting you and your pets someday soon!
We want to house (pet) sit because we have so much love to give to the fur babies, feathered friends, and all other animals! With the significant travel demands of our work (during certain times of the year) it's not in the cards for us to get a pet of our own right now, but in lieu of that, we would absolutely LOVE to take care of yours!
We have owned houses before, and are quite well-versed in what is required for routine home care and maintenance. We are committed to providing an exceptional level of care for your home and pet(s), and being former home-owners who have hosted house-sitters, we would treat your home and belongings with the utmost care and respect. It is our goal for you to be able to enjoy your holiday or time away, completely confident that your home and pet(s) are in very loving, extremely capable hands.
Dave & I have a significant amount of experience with dogs. When my most recent, a 105 lb Bernese Mountain Dog passed away a few years ago, I was heartbroken. We haven't been able to adopt a new furbaby into our lives since, due to the significant amount of work-travel required by both of us, but we get our pet fix when we dog and cat-sit for our friends and families. David has been a doggy parent in the past as well, and also has extensive experience with birds (parakeets, canaries, budgies, parrots, finches, and others). We are both very active, and would be more than happy to bring your dogs out for long hikes!
We are also quite resourceful and VERY organized, so you can rest assure that your home and pets (if you have any) would be in excellent hands.
We are so grateful to have had Ali and Dave stay in our home with our Great Dane Loki, during our recent vacation. Immediately, their regard for his well being was clear. Before we departed, we shared a dog walk, and dinner together, sharing a great evening, before our week away. This gave us together time to get acquainted with routines, and allow our dog time to adjust to Ali and Dave being with us. It was an easy changeover although he likely moped here and there. Each day, by text, we received photos and detailed updates with cute recounts of our sweet pup, which reassured us every step of the way, that Loki was in good hands. Coming home to our happy dog, so excited to see us, but not too excited, supported that he was relaxed with Ali & Dave. To our surprise, we arrived home to framed photos of our boy, and a beautiful flower arrangement and card of thanks. In the fridge, Ali had prepared a breakfast basket filled with croissants, fruit, eggs, yogurt, and blueberries, topped off with flowers...unreal. We know they went over the top, for us all, Loki especially. We are so grateful. Another fabulous trusted house sitter connection!! Thank you Ali & Dave!!!
This was the first time that we had a pet sitter move into our home. We were a bit nervous about the prospect of someone living in our home and worried about how our cat, Otis, would manage. Otis is extremely nervous and skittish around people he doesn't know (and sometimes around people he does know). Last fall, we left him for a month with cat sitters dropping in regularly to care for him. Although Otis knew two of the three persons well, he spent much of the month hiding in our basement. He meowed for days upon our return. So, we thought he would be upset having strangers in his home.
Thanks to Alison and David, we had nothing to worry about. Indeed, our experience of having Alison and David live in our home, see to maintenance issues that unexpectedly arose and take care of Otis could not have been more positive.
During the month we were away, Alison texted us with news and photos of Otis and our home. She had Otis sitting on her lap almost immediately – which astounded us because he rarely does that with us. Otis let Alison pet him and would come to her for affection. He was even affectionate with David even though he usually shies away from men. Alison's regular communication with us gave us real peace of mind that our cat and home were being well cared for.
Before we left on our trip, we arranged for a new sump pump to be installed in our basement to ensure that there would be no problems relating to unusually warm winter weather. Two days after we left, the sump pump malfunctioned. Alison and David immediately and thoroughly dealt with the problem – telling us later that it had been no bother (even though we know that it must have been!). They also took care of regular and extra maintenance for our indoor pool and hot tubs. They even offered to deal with repairing our drinking water filter when it started having issues only days before we were coming home.
We returned home to a happy cat. Normally, Otis becomes upset if we leave him for even one night. But when we returned home, he acted as if we never left.
the day we came home so that we would not have to do it on our return (David had left a few days earlier for a work commitment). Alison and David took all the worry out of leaving our cat and home for a month.
Not at all surprisingly, we would love to have Alison and David back. In the meantime, we are looking forward to catching up with them over a coffee.
Ali and Dave have taken care of my cat and house several times, and I would highly recommend them to anyone! I have absolute trust in them to take care of my cat as if she was their own. They are a caring and thoughtful couple (and very tidy, too!) who would do a fantastic job on any house sitting or pet sitting opportunities!


text:
← Banshee on the Loose: Damned by Dawn
Coming Eventually: Feeding Frenzy →
Review: The Land Has Eyes
Posted on Saturday, February 27, 2010 by Robert Hood
The Land Has Eyes [aka Pear ya ma'on maf] (Fiji/US- 2004; dir. Vilsoni Hereniko)
This Polynesian tribal drama boasts the distinction of being the first feature-length film made by Fijians, and is loosely based on the experiences of director Hereniko himself, who grew up on Rotuma but left to be educated in Fiji.
Viki is a young girl living in a poor village on the island of Rotuma, about 300 miles north of Fiji. Her father, considered a "pagan" by others, teaches her of the old pre-Christian ways and beliefs, specifically the legend of the Warrior Woman (Tafate'masian), who is said to have been abandoned on Rotuma by her seven brothers, after being raped by one of them. She survived against great adversity, gave birth to a girl-child and founded the island culture, vowing that future generations of Rotuman women will "carry her mana and spirit". A strong-willed girl, Viki is inspired by this story and determined to earn a scholarship to travel to Fiji, where her studies will free the family from poverty. After her father is framed for coconut theft by the court interpreter, Poto, who deliberately mistranslates for the naïve English judge, her determination becomes even greater. But her father is ill and the odds seem unjustly stacked against her and the family, despite her father's reassurance that "the land has eyes and teeth and knows the truth". As a confrontation draws closer and tragedy strikes, Viki begins to channel the Warrior Woman of her tribal dreams.
The film is basically naturalistic in approach, though with an air of the supernatural, especially toward the climax. The film begins with Viki's father telling her the story of the Warrior Woman — events dramatized for us as he narrates them — and occasionally refers back to the legend, verbally and visually, as Viki struggles to achieve her dreams. Initially, moments when Viki "sees" the Warrior Woman or experiences her influence can be understood as internalizations of the legend — though the supernatural becomes more overt during the climax, where a sudden storm and almost poltergeist-like violence brings about the downfall of the dishonest and conniving Poto. Here, where the land reveals through bared teeth the truth that its eyes have seen (as it were), the manifestation of the Warrior Woman and her spirit is experienced as strange phenomena by all present, especially the Judge, who confesses that he does not understand what happened. Yet the supernatural origin of events remains ambiguous due principally to the subjective style in which it is directed.
The approach taken by The Land Has Eyes is a quiet, introspective one when compared to current Western film aesthetics. That is its strength, but is also likely to limit its appeal. Many will find its lack of large-scale action dull. Nevertheless it offers convincing insight into the tribal culture of Rotuma and effectively dramatizes its aspirations and beliefs.
This entry was posted in Fantasy, Film, Review. Bookmark the permalink.
2 Responses to Review: The Land Has Eyes
Jeff R says:
Monday, March 1, 2010 at 1:07 pm
Rob you forgot to mention cannibalism, giant sea sharks, and zombies …. maybe I'm thinking of another movie …
Anywise time to track this one down.
Robert Hood says:
Jeff, you're thinking of "The Land Has Really Big Teeth" , which was the sequel to "The Land Has Tentacles". I believe "The Land Has Maggots" is due for release later this year.


We're uniquely set up to provide bespoke insurance solutions to protect your customers' payments, loans and other financial obligations.
Tailored to your specifications, our aim is for you to receive exactly the products and services you need to offer cost-effective and high value policies to your customers. With our flexible operational structure, we can swiftly deliver complete programs across Europe in market-leading time scales.
We provide credit protection insurance which ensures that loan or mortgage payments continue to be paid, or the final bill is settled.
We offer insurance for both essential and non-essential bills, such as monthly rent, utility payments or TV subscriptions, by providing a regular cash amount towards these payments.
We offer income protection policies which help to 'bridge the gap' in case of short-term loss of income, whether through unemployment, or inability to work due to accident or sickness, providing a pre-agreed, regular cash amount.
We provide insurance products which offer financial security with the purchase of a vehicle, no matter how it is financed.
We offer a personal accident insurance which provides cash amounts in the event of injury or death as a result of an accident.
Our innovative FlightCare insurance product covers the inconvenience experienced by your customers when a flight is cancelled by the airline or arrives more than 3 hours late to its final destination.
"We are very pleased to be working with Maiden who have demonstrated during the implementation phase their market leading ability to deliver quality products in short time scales."
Eva Grann. Product manager ot OK a.m.b.a.
"We can highly recommend partnering up with Maiden if you're in search of an insurance partner. Together we successfully designed and launched a new innovative insurance product in a short period of time. It turned out to be a very popular supplement to our consumer loans brand Credway."
EUclaim CEO speaks to Maiden about how FlightCare was born and what makes it unique.
Maiden and Northmill are pleased to announce the launch of a second insurance product as part of their ongoing collaboration.
Maiden is delighted to announce a new partnership with Matrix Insurance AS in Norway.


TV and movie producer takes its Winx Club, Mia and Me, PopPixie and Huntik global.
Rainbow is expanding its international reach, appointing a number of leading licensing agents to its global network.
New additions to the Rainbow portfolio of licensing agents for its properties Winx, Mia and Me, PopPixie and Huntik, include: B-rights in Greece; Planeta Junior in Spain; Popcorn in Portugal; ELC in Eastern Europe and the Ukraine and Viz International in Malaysia and Singapore.
The plethora of new deals also sees Bates Group take up the properties in Indonesia, the Philippines and Thailand; Unite Licensing in Tawain; and Wild Pumpkin and Exim in Australia and Latin America respectively.
In addition, Rainbow's relationship with Nickelodeon sees it handling Winx Club across the UK, US, Canada, Australia and Latin America, strengthening the brand in key overseas markets.
More agents are set to be appointed in the near future across Asia.
Maurizio Distefano, EVP and general manager global consumer products, Rainbow, said: "we are delighted to be making this announcement as we have added a host of very well-respected names to our global network of experienced and knowledgeable agents.
"This enables us to utilise the very best local licensing knowledge to maximise opportunities for our brands in key territories across the world."


It's been a busy year. Planning a wedding and dealing with family crisis. Blogging had to go on the back burner but the pinteresting life of Gotha Stewart continued on.
Here is treasure chest number 2 I made a few months ago. Basically made same as the first chest, just the look and design are different.
The chest is from Michael's, brown paint and spray clear coat are also. I used a 50% off coupon for chest. Octopus from Hobby Lobby. Embellishments and hardware from Amazon and/or Wish.
I used a sponge brush to paint a small area then took a towel and rubbed down the area. I wanted the the brown color to vary lighter in some areas darker in others. Once the chest was painted and dried I sprayed on a few layers of clear coat.
Next I used craft glue to apply the skulls and other charms. Then the corner pieces, handles and octopus were put on with screws or nails. Whichever the directions for each piece called for.
Lastly one last coat of clear coat.
Buying treasure for a pirate wedding can get expensive. One way to cut some of the cost is GOLD NUGGETS.
Fake gold nuggets that is. Using gold spray paint and rocks from my flower beds and driveway I made a ton of gold nuggets.
Easy peasy lemon squeezy. Gather the rocks. Wash and let dry. I used a box to put rocks in and spray. Less messy. Spray. Let dry. Shake box so rocks roll to unpainted side. Spray and dry again. I finished up with a quick spray of clear coat.


text:
Kazimierz Fugiel (ur. 30 marca 1941 w Markowej, zm. 8 sierpnia 2007 w Krakowie) – polski robotnik i społecznik, działacz opozycji w okresie PRL.

Życiorys
Absolwent Zasadniczej Szkoły Metalowo-Odlewniczej Towarzystwa Salezjańskiego w Łodzi. W 1960 zatrudniony w Hucie im. Lenina w Krakowie-Nowej Hucie. Z zakładem tym związany był do 1992. Wieczorem 19 sierpnia 1980 współorganizował pierwszy w hucie strajk (trwał do popołudnia 20 sierpnia). Od września 1980 współorganizował "Solidarność" – był przewodniczącym Komisji Wydziałowej. 17 marca 1981 na konferencji wyborczej został wybrany do plenum Komisji Robotniczej Hutników (KRH). Przewodniczył Komitetowi Organizacyjnemu przygotowującemu uroczystości poświęcenia sztandaru KRH (21 listopada 1981).

Po wprowadzeniu w Polsce stanu wojennego uczestniczył w dniach 13–16 grudnia 1981 w strajku w Hucie im. Lenina. Po pacyfikacji współorganizował Komitet Pomocy Charytatywnej w parafii Matki Bożej Królowej Polski w Krakowie-Bieńczycach, świadczący pomoc uwięzionym i ukrywającym się. 12 maja 1982 został internowany, zwolniono go 25 listopada tegoż roku. W latach 80. organizował w Nowej Hucie Polową Pocztę Solidarności. W maju 1988 tymczasowo aresztowany, wypuszczony po kilkunastu dniach po interwencji przedstawicieli biskupa.

W 1990 założył Towarzystwo Solidarnej Pomocy przy KRH "S", uczestniczył w różnych akcjach społecznych w tym w wyjazdach z pomocą humanitarną.

Odznaczony pośmiertnie Krzyżem Komandorskim Orderu Odrodzenia Polski (2008). Wyróżniany nagrodami za działalność społeczną i opozycyjną.

Przypisy

Absolwenci łódzkich szkół i uczelni
Członkowie Niezależnego Samorządnego Związku Zawodowego "Solidarność" (1980–1989)
Internowani w Polskiej Rzeczypospolitej Ludowej 1981–1982
Ludzie urodzeni w Markowej
Odznaczeni Krzyżem Komandorskim Orderu Odrodzenia Polski (III Rzeczpospolita)
Pochowani na cmentarzu Grębałowskim
Więźniowie polityczni w Polskiej Rzeczypospolitej Ludowej 1957–1989
Urodzeni w 1941
Zmarli w 2007

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


This is in reference to the information appeared in AICTE's Approval Process Handbook for 2018-19 published on 15/12/2017 [https://www.aicte-india.org/sites/default/files/APH%202018-19.pdf that "The All India Council for Technical Education is changing the teacher-student ratio in engineering colleges to 1:20". With Higher staff student ratio, it is unlikely that institutions can produce the high quality of engineers and technologists and the quality of education and research will suffer. With higher faculty student ratio, the faculty cannot put more concentration on the students. Taking this changed ratio as advantage, some private managements may terminate many number of faculty members suddenly and this will create lot of unemployment problem in the country. Therefore, perhaps the only way to increase the availability of highly qualified engineers and technologists in the country is to keep proper faculty student ratio thereby alleviating the shortage of well qualified manpower. Keeping proper student ratio will enable (1). Better delivery( teaching and learning) of concepts as we are getting average students .(2).faculty may concentrate on Research and publications (3).Good discipline/ moral values will be inculcated among students thereby appearing Engineering graduates in police stations for constable posts will be minimized. (4).Smooth functioning of department / college in all other administrative aspects such as preparing for NBA, NAAC, Autonomous status , university and other different inspections.
Hence, AICTE should withdraw proposal of 1:20 faculty/student ratio and keep the existing norms of faculty student ratio (1:15) in Engineering colleges in India from 2018-19 academic year also.
Please share my name and email address with JOINT ACTION COMMITTEE OF PRIVATE ENGINEERING COLLEGES TEACHERS ASSOCIATIONS in the state of telangana, so that I can receive updates on this campaign and others.
JOINT ACTION COMMITTEE OF PRIVATE ENGINEERING COLLEGES TEACHERS ASSOCIATIONS in the state of telangana needs your help with "Minister of HRD Government of India: AICTE to withdraw 1:20 Faculty/Student Ratio in Engg colleges". Join JOINT ACTION COMMITTEE OF PRIVATE ENGINEERING COLLEGES TEACHERS ASSOCIATIONS in the state of telangana and 1,773 supporters today.


I have wanted to write a review of the wilderness adventure white water rafting trip I took with my family in July 2016. This trip awakened a spiritual awareness that reaffirmed my soul! It gave me direct unity with my family and nature that is beyond words. The experience was total, undeniable and clear that I am in unity with the divine great spirit of GOD. The unbelievable beauty of millions to billions of years the Grand Canyon beholds to the clear reflection in my eight year old's eyes will be a memory I can always access in any time of stress. I am beyond grateful!!!
Thank you to all the guides, Tater, TJ, Chris and Kale.
This trip was on my "bucket list". My husband and I took our grown children and spouse on this family vacation. The experience was priceless. I chose Wilderness River Adventures based purely on the timing of the trip but did we ever luck out. The raft team was GREAT!! In addition to the rafting, they entertained us with stories of the river and rocks, took us on side trips, and fed us amazing meals. I have only one regret. I wish I had kept a journal of everything that happened each day to help remember. This trip was so filled with events; it is hard to remember what happened each day. Thanks Wilderness River Adventure.
We chose Wilderness River Adventures because it offered a 4-day rafting trip, which ended up being the perfect length for our three kids. There were so many amazing experiences but floating down the Little Colorado River was one of our favorites. The river guides were amazing—story tellers—chefs—scouts. We recommend it to everyone who can; in fact, one of our friends is taking his daughter this summer. We hope to do the "second half" of the trip in the future, as long as Mr. Kitty could be our guide!
"We took the motorized six-day (five night) trip in June 2014. From the beginning Wilderness River Adventures made us feel like family. The food was unbelievably awesome, the river guides made me feel as if we had been friends for years. I still hear in the morning COFFEEE! A trip of a lifetime."
"Our trip was a 7-day motorized rafting trip the length of the canyon in June 2014. My wife and I had taken the same trip with Wilderness River Adventures 15 years before and always thought that it would be a wonderful experience for our adult children and nine grandchildren when all of the grandchildren were old enough to participate. Last year was the year. The crew was fantastic. The food and accommodations were as good as my wife and I remembered. And, then, of course we had the canyon, the river, and all of the sites. The crew was very knowledgeable about the geology of the canyon, which was an added dimension for our grand children who soaked up the information like sponges. Our children and grand children all came away saying it was the best experience they ever had. Even my wife has now said that she is prepared to do the trip at least one more time. I hope so."
"Since I have been home, I have told literally every person I have met how awesome this trip was. This has included cab drivers, waitresses, friends, family, and anyone else that would listen (including the lady in the grocery line last night). There are very few things in life that are life changing, this trip, with this company, is one of those items. The word recommend is not expressive enough, if you are considering a trip like this... do it, period. Before we left the canyon, my wife and I have already begun planning our return trip with our two young sons as soon as they are of age (5 and 7 now). I look forward to sharing this experience with my sons in the near future. To WRA and the crew, thank you for a wonderful experience! PS - Team Canada dominated Lava Falls!"
"Our family just finished the June 12-day oar trip down the Colorado River with Wilderness River Adventures, and the guides, Ryan, Lorenzo, Ariel, Steve, Mike, Devon, Amy and "Chango", truly created memories of a lifetime for all of us! The food was superb and kid-friendly (we're talking prime rib one night!), the experience and knowledge of the guides was exceptional, and the stories and geologic history the guides share along the river enhanced the experience immensely. The guides were especially good with our kids, ages 15 and12, from baseball games on beaches, to sand castle contests and talent shows, swimming the small rapids in the Little Colorado, etc. The kids told us it was their favorite vacation ever (not an easy rating to come by)! It was just a true privilege to be a part of this guide group and unique experience, and they have set the "bar" so high on every level, we will absolutely come back with WRA again. This is one experience you won't want to miss...."
"When I was 15 years old I went on an 8-day motor trip with my mom and sister. I remember it as the best trip I had ever taken. In June 2012, at the age of 50, I took my wife and two teenage kids on a similar trip with Wilderness River Adventures. It turns out it was more similar than I could have imagined. I learned from our guides that WRA is actually the same company that I went on 35 years ago (just a name change)! Our 2012 guides even knew the guides that were on my trip from so long ago. There is real history and knowledge within WRA. They do things much the same way as they did. They have found a formula that works. An amazing river, spectacular canyon, and skilled guides with a sincere desire to make the trip as memorable as possible. Thanks for everything WRA."
"I did my first Grand Canyon river trip as a private permitted raft/kayak trip in 2010. As I lifted my kayak out of the river on the last day of that trip I knew I needed to do it again and this time I wanted my family to share this amazing experience. I began researching companies. I was looking for flexibility in forming our own group consisting of rafters and kayakers. I chose WRA and was never disappointed. The office staff was always pleasant and helpful. The guides were great on and off the water. We were a group of 16 hand selected friends and family. At the end of our 12 day oar trip every member of our group said it was one of the best experiences they had ever had. We all agreed WRA was a big part of that satisfaction. We all plan on doing it again in the near future and agree we will use WRA."
"At the end of May we took the eight day Wilderness River Adventures trip down the Grand Canyon with a bunch of friends. The adventure was without a doubt one of the most fascinating experiences of a lifetime! The magnificence of the Grand Canyon with all of its grandeur left an overwhelming spiritual impression on all of us. From the massive canyon walls to the hidden waterfalls, fern grottos and secluded pools to the aqua blue waters of the Little Colorado and Havasu Creek, the scenery was amongst the most beautiful on earth! We called Havasu Creek the new Shan-gri-la! It was absolutely stunning! The WRA staff was fantastic! From booking and greeting us Bonnie and Patty were the best! The river staff catered to our every need and provided both an intriguing history of the area and interesting geological tidbits. Dan was especially awesome! The food had a gourmet flair and was delicious! WRA knows how to do it right! We are already planning our return. The entire experience was breathtaking and powerful!"
"Our 8 day motor trip from Lee's Ferry to Whitmore was an extraordinary wilderness adventure for our family of four. The motor trip is a relaxing way to see lots of magnificent scenery, which changed continually as we progressed down the Colorado. With the gear provided by Wilderness River Adventures, camping was easy and comfortable (even for the females in our family, who were new to camping.) Our guides were friendly and knowledgeable about the river and the canyon, and they were also expert boat-handlers. The hot desert climate was balanced by an occasional splash from the rapids. Our guides found lots of fun stops on the river to eat, camp, relax, hike, swim, and see some unique sites. The great memories from this trip will stay with our family forever."


text:
Aamir Khan Unveils 'Barf' to Be His Next Directional Movie
Jan 12 1 min read
Reportedly, Bollywood actor Aamir Khan revealed that 'Barf' is going to be his new directional venture after the super hit movie 'Tare zameen Par'. Mr. Perfectionist did not unveil the story of the film but said that he actually loved the script of the film and soon he will be going to start working on the film.
When Aamir Khan was asked about his next project, he stated, "I do have plans to direct a film. But it won't happen any time soon". Pk star also says that he has already found a new screenplay to direct. "The film is called 'Barf'. I loved the script and in fact, I had it around four years back. But because I had no plans of directing then or right now, I haven't started work on it."
Bollywood Actor Aamir's Next Movie to Be A Love Story
Later he said that-
You may also like: Mr. Perfectionist Aamir Khan Has Signed Nitesh Tiwari's Dangal?
"I am only concentrating on acting in some good, meaningful films now," and added "But when I do decide to direct my next, this will definitely be it."
Aamir Khan to Make a Comeback in Direction With 'Barf'
Rumors are also spreading that the actor recently signed Nitesh Tiwari's upcoming venture 'Dangal' and could be seen playing the role of a wrestler, but as per now the B-Town perfectionist has denied the rumors.
A source discloses that-
"He has liked the script and has already started bulking up to look like a wrestler. He is trying to get a totally beefed up look for Dangal."
Get more about Aamir Khan's PK movie from Bollywood News.
Exclusive: B-Town Couple Hrithik and Kangana Tying a Knot in 2015?
Watch: Murder Mystery 'Rahasya' Movie Trailer


As the sun reaches a crescendo in its 11 year activity cycle this year, it's also getting ready to go topsy-turvy.
The sun's global magnetic field is about to reverse—flipping its orientation so that north becomes south and south becomes north. Astronomers estimate that we may be only three or four months away from this mysterious solar magnetic field reversal.
This magnetic field flip occurs every 11 years as the sun reaches the mid-point of the solar maximum, a period of increased solar activity . Scientists monitoring the sun during its current cycle say that the sun's inner electromagnetic dynamo—produced by the rotation of its plasma and the outward flow of energy—is about to change orientation between the northern and southern hemispheres.
The effects of the pole reversal will reverberate well beyond the sun. While there's no need to worry about any Hollywood-type doomsday scenarios, this natural, ongoing solar event can create stormy space weather and intensify the geomagnetic storms that will buffet the Earth in the coming year. For skywatchers, this may translate into some beautiful auroras this coming season.
Even the protective bubble at the edge of the solar system, called the heliosheath—which lies billions of miles beyond Pluto and shields the planets from damaging cosmic radiation—is under the influence of the sun's magnetic field. The heliosheth will feel the effects of this magnetic flip and become more robust. The improved shielding from cosmic radiation—while temporary— will directly benefit spacewalking astronauts and satellites vulnerable to these energetic, and destructive, particles .


text:
Q: Mark reminder as complete in Outlook Reminders dialog Is there a keyboard shortcut to mark a task as complete in the Outlook Reminders dialog?
Right now I have to right click every item and select "Mark Complete".

The quickest way I have found, by keyboard, is to press Context menu (if the keyboard has such a button) followed by M, but it has a slight delay as compared to a button combo press.

A: You can do this by following steps:

*

*Click Quick Steps > New Quick Step > Custom.

*Select Mark Complete.

*Choose a shortcut.

Then when the Reminders dialog show, just select the task and press shortcut.
Hope this can be helpful

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


text:
Q: How can i use list library for point an array? I want to point  array (created for each link) for each link. Can i do that with list library . third line is correct or not?
#include <iostream>
#include <list>

class A{
 list<int> b;
 list<b> *c;// for use every link point a created array
}

A: In C++, you use iterators to point into lists:
list<int>::iterator c;

You can initalize the iterator with
c = b.begin();

A: The question is a little unclear and you can point to a array(as you call it) for each list by
list<list<int>> listOfList;

or more precisely you can point to an array for each link by
list<int *> listOfArray;

and your third line is not correct.


text:
LCBO, workers can work out labour dispute, despite May 17 strike deadline: Wynne
TORONTO - Premier Kathleen Wynne says her government is not going to wade into the labour dispute between the Liquor Control Board of Ontario and its unionized employees, despite a looming strike deadline.
More than 7,000 LCBO workers represented by the Ontario Public Service Employees Union are threatening to walk off the job on May 17 if they can't reach a fair contract with the retail giant.
The union says it has filed an application with the Ministry of Labour for the strike deadline, which would fall on the Friday before the long weekend next month.
The employees' four-year contract with the LCBO ended March 31 and the union says "very little progress" has been made at the bargaining table.
Earlier this month, the employees voted 95 per cent in favour of a strike mandate.
Wynne says negotiations are ongoing and both sides should be left to work things out between them, adding May 17 is still a ways off.
"I'm sure that both sides will be able to come together and work this out," she said Wednesday.
"They are in discussion and it's more helpful for us to let that be a confidential conversation."
The union says key issues include boosting part-time wages and upgrades to health and safety standards but the province has said it has no money to spend on wage increases.
Progressive Conservative Leader Tim Hudak said Wednesday that the Liberals will likely just give in to union leaders, just like they did during disputes with the province's teachers' unions at the beginning of the year.
"We're going to see a lot more of these workplace actions from the government unions because it seems with the Liberals, they always get their way," he said.
Hudak has said the province should allow beer, wine and spirits to be sold in corner stores and has also floated the idea of selling part or all of the LCBO.
Wynne said Wednesday she thinks the LCBO works just fine the way it is.


text:
New: UC Berkeley Won't Let Students Dump Bill Maher
Scott Morris (BCN)
Wednesday October 29, 2014 - 09:45:00 AM
The student group that selected comedian Bill Maher to be the commencement speaker at the University of California at Berkeley has attempted to rescind the invitation after student backlash over some of Maher's statements, but the university won't allow it, school officials said today. -more-
New: Post Office to Berkeley: Drop Dead!
Thursday October 30, 2014 - 12:00:00 AM
Editor's Note: This letter, addressed to Berkeley City Attorney Zach Cowan, was forwarded to the Planet by an interested citizen who had received a copy by email:
This letter is in response to your letter of October 27, 2014 and is intended to address what seem to be the City's main issues.
First, you express concerns about the fact that the United States Postal Service ("Postal Service") will not discuss with the City of Berkeley the details regarding the status of properties being offered for sale by the Postal Service, including the Berkeley Main Post Office, beyond what is already publicly available at http://uspspropertiesforsale.com/. The Postal Service needs to continue to keep confidential that information, which under good business practice, would not be disclosed. -more-
New: The City of Berkeley Illegally Paid $140k for Redistricting Lawsuit Against Itself and Residents (Public Comment)
Anthony Sanchez
When the City Council voted to sue its own City Clerk and residents earlier this year in its redistricting battle, the City illegally paid high-powered law firm REMCHO, JOHANSEN & PURCELL LLP $140,000 without Council's approval.
Though City law allows the City Manager to execute contracts under $50,000 without Council authorization, any contract that exceeds that threshold must be publicly confirmed by a majority vote of City Council. So when City Manager Christine Daniel hired Remcho to sue the City before any public mention of a lawsuit, let alone a vote, she entered into the contract at $30,000. However, on April 30th, the contract was amended to $140,000 without any approval or disclosure.
Attached are the initial contract with Remcho, the final amended contract, the transcript from last evening's Council Meeting where Christine Daniel confirms that contracts over $50,000 must be authorized by a vote of the Council, and an item adopted by Council that specifies the thresholds for contract authorizations.
The contract was only recently found by accident when Stefan Elgstrand, one of the residents sued, searched for the original contract and found that it was amended. -more-
Fatal Shooting Last Night Near Berkeley Marina
Dan McMenamin (BCN)
East Bay Regional Park District police are investigating a fatal shooting on Tuesday night near the Berkeley Marina. -more-
Updated: Vote-by-Mail Ballots Must Be Received by Tuesday
Erin Baldassari (BCN)and Planet
Tuesday October 28, 2014 - 01:37:00 PM
Elections officials must receive vote-by-mail ballots by 8 p.m. on Nov. 4. Postmarks will not be counted, so voters who wish to vote by mail are encouraged to mail their ballots in early to allow for postal transit times, elections officials said.
For more information from the Alameda County registrar, see this website: http://www.acgov.org/rov/votebymail.htm -more-
Press Release: Can Berkeley Stop the Sale of its Downtown Post Office?
USPS admits it's signed a sales contract.
Rally on Saturday at 10:30
From Mike Lonergan
Tuesday October 28, 2014 - 11:20:00 AM
The U.S. Postal Service has walked away from negotiations with the City of Berkeley and the National Trust on an agreement to preserve Berkeley's Main Post Office. The USPS refuses to respond to questions from the City of Berkeley or from Congresswoman Barbara Lee regarding the imminent sale. We still do not know who the buyer is. The USPS has listed the building for sale since July, 2013, with CBRE, the realty firm headed by Richard Blum, Senator Diane Feinstein's spouse. Attempts to obtain further information from the U.S. Postal Service were stonewalled. -more-
New: Redwood Gardens Community Pressured by Management
Lydia Gans
Monday October 27, 2014 - 04:13:00 PM
Redwood Gardens at 2951 Derby Street in Berkeley has been in the news lately and will continue to be. Many of us are familiar with the place from cultural, political, or social events we attended in their community room. It is part of a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) subsidized complex of buildings with 169 apartments, gardens and community facilities for seniors and people with disabilities. The project was established as a co-op some 28 years ago by Cooperative Services Inc. (CSI). Currently it is managed by CSI Support and Development which operates number of co-ops in California. Redwood Gardens is the only development that now is not a co-op. (There is some history behind the change which is not necessary to go into here.)
The CSI Support and Development website outlines the principles of cooperatives. "Living in a co-op means living in a building that is controlled by the resident members. The resident members vote on all major operating decisions, including writing the annual budget. … Becoming part of a CSI co-op allows you to enjoy the benefits of apartment living while retaining control of your environment."
Although this ideal existed in Redwood Gardens in the past, it is far from the way things are now. The residents have no control over management decisions and even opportunities for expressing their concerns and being heard are being increasingly denied. And there are some very serious concerns. They are afraid that much of what management has been doing and plan to do will have negative impact on the quality of their lives.
In the words of resident Gary Hicks, "There is increasing enmity between the residents and management." The popular community room is no longer available, it has been taken over by management for offices. A bridge that is a primary entrance to the east side of the building is hazardous and restoration is taking unduly long. (Architect Avram Gur Arye has provided extensive photographs of this.) Changes are being made in the gardens and community areas with no input from the residents. -more-
League of Women Voters Denies Involvement on Behalf of Berkeley's Ballot Measure S, as Claimed in Pro-S Ballot Arguments Submitted by City Officials
Thursday October 23, 2014 - 08:10:00 PM
Editor's Note: The Berkeley/Albany/Emeryville League of Women Voters yesterday sent the following letter to Berkeley's mayor and City Council, refuting claims in the Measure S ballot arguments placed there by city officials that the League participated or agreed to have its name used in support of the measure: nhh
Dear Mayor Bates and Council Members,
On behalf of the League of Women Voters of Berkeley, Albany, and Emeryville, we wish to bring to your attention that the arguments for measure S and again in the rebuttal against the arguments against Measure S, the Redistricting Measure, incorrectly state that the League of Women Voters was a participant in the creation of the Council's Redistricting Ordinance and plan and imply that the League was a major participant.
We were not asked nor did we approve the inclusion of our name in the argument and rebuttal. In fact, the LWVBAE is neutral on Measure S. The proponents of the measure and/or the City Clerk should have asked us to sign to give permission for the use of our name. -more-
Berkeley Man Gets 12 Years for Fatally Stabbing Cal Student in 2008
Jeff Shuttleworth (BCN)
Friday October 24, 2014 - 01:13:00 PM
A former Berkeley City College student was sentenced today to 12 years in state prison for fatally stabbing University of California at Berkeley student Christopher Wootton near campus six years ago. -more-
Solving for XX
Jonathan David Farley, D.Phil. (University of Oxford)
Last year, an assistant director for Elementary contacted me. The plot of an episode of the crime drama starring Lucy Liu (Kill Bill, Charlie's Angels), entitled, "Solve for x," centered around a mathematician vying for the top prize in the number-wizarding world. I encouraged CBS to make a big deal of the fact that the mathematician was a woman─women at the highest levels of math are so thin on the ground, girl calculators need to find contemporary role models wherever they can, even in works of fiction. -more-
Exclusive to The Planet: Edward Snowden's Message to Berkeley On the 50th Anniversary of the Free Speech Movement
Reported by Gar Smith
Friday October 24, 2014 - 11:46:00 AM
On October 1, Free Speech day in California, former National Security Agency subcontractor-turned-whistleblower Edward Snowden sent the following message to veterans of Berkeley's Free Speech Movement. It was read aloud on the Savio Steps by FSM vet Jack Radey during a rally marking the 50th anniversary of the day students surrounded a police car to prevent the arrest of a political activist who had been tabling for the Congress of Racial Equality. -more-
New: "Big Oil" in the 15th Assembly District race: Take Two.
Joanna Graham
Quoting Mal Warwick's op-ed in Berkeleyside once again, "There's no way to know why these groups [such as Big Oil] are spending so much money here. We can only assume that something about Thurmond, or his opponent, Elizabeth Echols, has moved them to support one and oppose the other."
Reiterating that we do not and cannot know who is actually behind those Alliance for California's Tomorrow mailers, I return to the question as to which candidate is being supported, which opposed. In my last op-ed [below], I pointed out that there is no known reason why "Big Oil" would be supporting Tony Thurmond, since on the Richmond city council he voted against Chevron's plan to refine heavy crude—a plan that is still in limbo.
And in fact, the Echols campaign has—to my knowledge—stopped short of claiming that "Big Oil" is actually trying to put Thurmond in Sacramento. Rather, they are making the more indirect argument that "Big Oil" is so terrified of Echols's strong environmentalism that they are supporting Thurmond in order to keep her out ("oppose the other"). -more-
The Assembly Race Turns Nasty
What's going on in the race for California Assembly District 15? Elizabeth Echols is running perhaps the nastiest campaign I have ever seen—a nearly 100% negative campaign based on the insinuation that her opponent, Tony Thurmond, is backed by "big oil, tobacco, and predatory lenders"—perhaps the three industries most guaranteed to bring rage into the hearts of liberal Bay Area voters (surpassing even Big Soda).
And on what is this insinuation based? Has Tony Thurmond done anything in his public career to give grounds for it? Not that I have so far been able to dig up—nor Echols either, presumably, since she has provided no instances. Rather, it is based completely on the mysterious direct mail we have been receiving on Thurmond's behalf from The Alliance for California's Tomorrow and, apparently (I have not personally received any of these), from Keep CA Strong PAC.
So what are these entities? They are independent expenditure committees, which have been proliferating like cancer cells, particularly in the aftermath of Citizens United. Essentially they are political money laundering operations designed specifically to make the connection between the donor and the beneficiary untraceable. Even the recipient of the largesse does not know—by law cannot know—who is spending the money. So the source of the mailers is a mystery. Thurmond does not know who paid for them and Echols does not know either. -more-
Chevron Discredits Itself in Mayoral Smear Campaign
Colin Murphy
In what is turning out to be an epic political battle, the race for Richmond City Council is less than one month away from election day.
The stakes are massive: in a city that receives approximately 10% of its total revenue from Chevron, one of Richmond's largest employers, the oil giant has every intention of maintaining its powerful political influence there.
But after three major disasters at the Richmond Chevron Refinery, the worst of which was an explosion and fire that sent more than fifteen thousand residents to the hospital in August 2012, there's evidence that the Richmond populace is not so enthusiastic about the company's presence in their city. According a Richmond Confidential article last year, Contra Costa County Supervisor John Goia said that "there's always been a love-hate relationship between Chevron and Richmond." He added, "support is at an all-time low." -more-
How NOT to Vote in Berkeley's District 8: Avoid the Revolving Door
Nigel Guest
As a resident of Berkeley's District 8, I'm concerned that the front-runner in our Councilmember's race may be a person who has more potential conflicts of interest than anybody I can recall, namely Mike Cohen. He has a senior position at UC Berkeley, in which he is in charge of licensing the university's technology to commercial enterprises, particularly startups, and he is co-founder and a major stockholder in Peak Democracy, which organizes online forums for local governments. He appears to be within the letter of the FPPC's definition of conflict-of-interest, but he is well outside its spirit. District 8 may be the area most impacted by the activities of UC Berkeley, and its residents are often at loggerheads with the Administration, including multiple citizens' lawsuits against it. Thus any ties to UC are a problem for someone whose job is to support the residents' interests - the incumbent is a case in point. -more-
James Risen, a Pulitzer Prize Winning Hero , is Threatened with Jail for Protecting Source
In a determined effort to punish James Risen, the New York Times investigative reporter, the Bush and now the Obama administration has threatened him with imprisonment unless he reveals his source who provided him details of the massive illegal warrantless wiretapping conducted by the National Security Agency. This case will undoubtedly become the most significant challenge to press freedom in decades. -more-
The Parks Tax and its Discontents
Jim McGrath and Toni Mester
It must be the worst of times in Berkeley when a modest and pragmatic measure that wins endorsements from the entire City Council, civic leaders, candidates, and the political mainstream from the Chamber of Commerce to the Wellstone Democratic Renewal Club still doesn't satisfy outspoken members of our community. -more-
Cuba & the Ebola Crisis
Tejinder Uberoi
While much of the world is finding it difficult to recruit trained medical staff to dispatch to West Africa to combat the Ebola epidemic, one nation is responding to the crisis. Cuba has already dispatched 165 health workers to Sierra Leone and is sending 91 additional staff to Liberia and Guinea. This brings the total to 256 people, more than a third of all foreign medical staff. Cuban President, Raúl Castro, offered to work with the United States to help combat the Ebola epidemic. -more-
UC Berkeley is a Private University!
Harry Brill
One of the serious shortcomings of the recently enacted Berkeley Minimum Wage Law, which became effective October 1, is the permanent exemption for the University of California Berkeley campus. By 2016, the minimum wage will reach $12.53 per hour. But not for many employees of UC Berkeley. Because the University is presumably a public institution sustained by the state, its workforce is not covered by local laws. However, the reality is that although the State of California had once been its primary source of funding, this is no longer the case. -more-
New: It's a No-Brainer: Berkeley Takes On Big Soda
Vivian Warkentin
That Soda Tax--It's a no- brainer. This is Liberal Progressive Berzerkley town and we DEFY you Big Soda! It's us against Big Soda. That's all. Don't bother me with details, I've already got my yes on D yard sign up. -more-
New: Big Money Invades the 15th Assembly District
Mal Warwick
Since I have now been attacked twice in the Daily Planet by someone named Joanna Graham, most recently yesterday in a "Take Two" addendum to her original piece, it's time to respond. Ms. Graham is apparently exercised that I stated the obvious about the forces at play in the 15th Assembly District race in an opinion piece I wrote elsewhere. -more-
Romila Khanna
November 4th is the day for us to decide about important issues facing us at home and abroad. Let us elect those who will help us regain trust in the government and its policymakers. At the present time, our basic needs are ignored in favor of conveniences for the rich. Our need for basic health care and access to education is great. Our opportunity to be heard and to participate in decision-making is zero. -more-
Raw Milk on the Ballot
Nancy Snedden
Vote YES on HB 4307 and HB 4038. -more-
Carol Denney on Leafblowers
Hank Chapot
I fully agree with Carol Denny's piece on leaf blowers. In communities where they are banned, neighbors should talk to neighbors whose gardeners persist in using the machine. However, as a professional gardener, whenever I hear a municipality is discussing banning the blower, I agree, blowers are polluting machines that disturb settled dust and urban particulate matter. However, if you are going to take away this tool from the worker, YOU WILL HAVE TO PAY HIM MORE if you want him to use a rake, hose or broom to achieve the same kind of cleanliness. Or, customers could accept a little less perfection... -more-
Ronald William Loewinsohn
December 15, 1937 – October 14, 2014
Saturday October 25, 2014 - 10:55:00 AM
Even the words, the point
of the pen itself as it dances
across the—
swirling against the page—No,
jiggling & scraping against
it, reaching for a grace & stumbling, re-
tracing and scratching out—
—From "THE HOUSE," by Ron Loewinsohn, Goat Dances, Black Sparrow Press, 1976
-more-
Why Berkeley Voters Should Say "No" to Measure S
Becky O'Malley
Today I'm back on the same topic I ranted on briefly last Sunday. That would be Berkeley ballot Measure S, the one that asks you if you support the outrageous gerrymander that Mayor Bates and his docile council majority foisted on the city at the last possible moment to fulfill their decennial obligation to create new boundaries for the council districts. The answer, of course, is No, No, a thousand times NO.
If you hadn't figured that out already the bad behavior of the scheme's supporters should be enough to make up your mind. On Sunday I pointed out that in flagrant violation of the applicable law they'd paid some idiot to staple a whole bunch of "Yes" signs on every telephone pole for many blocks along Ashby/Tunnel. They're probably elsewhere as well.
(1) It's illegal to nail signs to wooden telephone poles.
(2) Even if it were legal, it would be annoying. We had six (6) plasticized signs in front of our house alone, four on one pole and two on the other. Ugly.
This is no way to make friends. I strongly suspect that some flunky was hired to post X number of signs, and no one bothered to tell him where he should put them. (Prejudice admission: I generally use the male pronoun when clueless errors are involved.) I've seen not a single pro-S sign posted in anyone's home yard.
And now the Yes-on-S gang has been caught in another egregious mistake: claiming participation from the League of Women Voters in their ballot arguments. Wrong. Didn't happen. -more-
The Editor's Back Fence
Spreading the Word As If It Were Manure
Wednesday October 29, 2014 - 02:26:00 PM
Nothing, nothing is more depressing this week than looking at the pile of (excuse me, grandma) crap that arrives in the mailbox every day as the election season comes to a close. Well, maybe it's the boiler room phone calls for the candidates. -more-
Monday October 27, 2014 - 11:26:00 AM
Op-ed: Measure R delivers on the green promise for downtown
Updated: The Planet's Election Endorsements
After the previous election some readers complained that they couldn't locate the Planet's endorsements when they went to vote. To make it as easy as possible, between now and the election we're going to maintain this corner of the front page where you can always find our endorsements along with links to editorial material with more detail about specific candidates and issues. This week we want first to remedy one oversight: We strongly support the unopposed slate of candidates for Berkeley's Rent Board. Their campaign is being pitched as an opportunity for Berkeley voters to reaffirm their support for our long-standing rent control and stabilization law, so don't forget to check those candidates' boxes on your ballot.
In other areas (click on the links for fuller discussion) :
Berkeley Measure S (district gerrymander): NO
Berkeley Measure R (green downtown regulations):Yes
Measure D (tax on sugar in soda pop) : no endorsement
Alameda County Measure BB: Yes
Judges: Here's a recommendation from an active young lawyer who comes from a family of distinguished attorneys but wishes to remain anonymous: " Liu, Cuellar, Werdegar,Humes, Kline, and Stewart are yes. Ruvolo is the only definite no." She voted yes for everyone but ruvolo.
Then, click here for the candidates: Which Berkeley City Council Candidates Should You Support?
Short Answers: District 1, Alejandro Soto-Vigil; District 4, Jesse Arreguin (unopposed); District 7, Kriss Worthington; District 8, Jacquelyn McCormick (rank her first, followed by George Beier, second, and Lori Droste, third. Skip fourth place. )
Finally , check out this May editorial with a self-explanatory title: Tony Thurmond is the Best Choice for California Assembly ...
We're pleased to see that Berkeley Councilmember Jesse Arreguin has added his endorsement to Tony's long list of fans.
In the video below you can see Tony explain his campaign in person at a Berkeley house party: -more-
ECLECTIC RANT: Ebola, Like AIDS, Can Be Brought Under Control
Ralph Stone
My 19-year old son died of AIDS back in the early days of the AIDS pandemic. The hysteria surrounding the Ebola crisis reminds me somewhat of the hysteria in the early days of the AIDS crisis. There was a plethora of misinformation, risky rumors, blaming of the victim, and lots of finger pointing. At one time an AIDS diagnosis was a virtual death sentence. But as AIDS hit the United States and Europe, money poured into research. Now AIDS is largely treatable as a chronic illness although medications are costly. -more-
THE PUBLIC EYE: What Do Millennials Want?
Bob Burnett
Attempting to predict the outcome of the November 4th midterm elections, political observers have scratched their heads at the behavior of the youngest US demographic segment, the Millennials. These are the 80 million voters born after 1981. They have the power to determine any political race but it's unclear what they want or even if they will vote. -more-
ON MENTAL ILLNESS: Paranoia Toward Psychotherapists
Jack Bragen
I often have paranoid feelings concerning mental health practitioners even though these are the professionals who apparently are trying to help. However, not all of this paranoia is unfounded. Among counselors who are generally dedicated and giving people, there are a few bad apples. -more-
New: Another Stirring Soprano Debut in San Francisco Opera's TOSCA
Reviewed by James Roy MacBean
In a season dominated by star-quality sopranos, San Francisco Opera offered yet another outstanding company debut in Armenian soprano Lianna Haroutounian's vocally voluptuous Floria Tosca. Critics have sometimes been harsh on Puccini's Tosca – Joseph Kerman haughtily dismissed it as "that shabby little shocker" – but audiences have always loved it. In San Francisco, the first-night audience for Tosca on Thursday, October 23, offered frequent bravos and bravas as well as a standing ovation at the close of the opera. As was warranted, the greatest outbursts of applause went to Lianna Haroutounian for her sumptuous singing as Tosca, a role in which she offered superb vocalism featuring brilliant high notes and lush low notes. Haroutounian has already sung at Royal Opera, Covent Garden, and makes her New York Met debut later this year. -more-
Theater Review: 'Mahmoud'--Tara Grammy Presented by Golden Thread
"Taxi Driver, Gay Man, Pre-teen Girl--One Iranian Actress, One BIG identity crisis."
Ken Bullock
CITIZENFOUR: Documenting Edward Snowden's Pulitzer-Prize-winning Act of Courage
Opens at the Albany Twin theater on October 24.
Reviewed by Gar Smith
CITIZENFOUR is a real-life spy thriller featuring three charismatic and eloquent individuals driven by high moral purpose into a knife-ringed pit of high-stakes intrigue. The dialogue crackles like a Hollywood script in a story that unfolds like a John le Carre novel. -more-
Pelican Dreams: If You Love Birds, This Movie Fills the Bill
At Berkeley's Elmwood Theater
Gar Smith
Note: Director Judy Irving will be on stage for a Q&A after Saturday's 7:20PM screening. -more-
Press Release: Melody of China to Combine Chinese Traditional Music with Western New Music in Bay Area Premiere Performances in November
Talent and beauty are merged into one as Melody of China, San Francisco's premiere Chinese chamber ensemble, premieres a new work at Old First Church on Friday, November 7 at 8 P.M. with follow-up performances at Yoshi's Oakland and the Community School of Music and Arts in Mountain View. The program will feature captivating performances by the bold and dynamic Melody of China, known for their mastery of Chinese traditional instruments, with talented guests Peter Josheff, Jon Jang, Francis Wong, Marcus Shelby and Deszon X. Claiborne.
All three concerts will showcase Melody of China's (MoC) newest commissions, exciting collaborations, and lively traditional selections. The program at Old First Church (San Francisco) will feature the premiere of Yuanlin Chen's "Coexistent Beauty" for yangqin, guzheng, pipa, sheng, dizi, bass clarinet, violin, cello, keyboard and electronics. Chen's piece, supported by a grant from Chamber Music America, will be performed again at the Community School of Music and Arts and Yoshi's Oakland. In the composer's words: "Coexistent Beauty explores differences and connections in various perspectives among human society." The program at Yoshi's will also include a new work for Chinese instruments and jazz quartet along with a vocal performance by MoC's own Gangqin Zhao. The program at the Community School will include Chen's new work and traditional selections. Other pieces include "Flying China," MoC's own medley of traditional pieces showcasing each instrument, and several other stirring selections from the group's vast traditional repertoire.
The concerts will feature several high-profile guests including the bay area's leading new music clarinetist Peter Josheff, violinist Dan Flanagan, cellist Kevin Yu, drummer Deszon X. Claiborne, Mongolian Horse-head fiddle master Bo Li and keyboardist Eric Myers. The Yoshi's date will also feature jazz pioneers pianist Jon Jang, saxophonist Francis Wong and bassist Marcus Shelby. -more-
Press Release: Demonstration on Saturday to Block Israeli Ship at Port of Oakland
From Lara Kiswani
Oakland—On Saturday, October 26, 2014, hundreds of people from across the Bay Area will picket at Berth 57 in the Port of Oakland to block the Israeli owned ZIM Lines ship from unloading to protest Israel's continued blockade on Gaza and its ongoing occupation of Palestine. Organized by Block the Boat Coalition (BTB), this protest follows the historic success of a similar BTB action in August in response to the Israeli bombardment on Gaza. The Zim Piraeus was prevented from unloading for four straight days and was ultimately forced to leave with most of its cargo still on board. -more-
Why Berkeley Voters Should Say "No" to Measure S 10-24-2014
Spreading the Word As If It Were Manure 10-29-2014
Don't Miss This 10-27-2014
Updated: The Planet's Election Endorsements 10-24-2014
New: "Big Oil" in the 15th Assembly District race: Take Two. Joanna Graham 10-27-2014
The Assembly Race Turns Nasty Joanna Graham 10-24-2014
Chevron Discredits Itself in Mayoral Smear Campaign Colin Murphy 10-24-2014
How NOT to Vote in Berkeley's District 8: Avoid the Revolving Door Nigel Guest 10-24-2014
James Risen, a Pulitzer Prize Winning Hero , is Threatened with Jail for Protecting Source Jagjit Singh 10-24-2014
The Parks Tax and its Discontents Jim McGrath and Toni Mester 10-24-2014
Cuba & the Ebola Crisis Tejinder Uberoi 10-24-2014
UC Berkeley is a Private University! Harry Brill 10-24-2014
New: It's a No-Brainer: Berkeley Takes On Big Soda Vivian Warkentin 10-28-2014
New: Big Money Invades the 15th Assembly District Mal Warwick 10-28-2014
Election Day Romila Khanna 10-24-2014
Raw Milk on the Ballot Nancy Snedden 10-24-2014
Carol Denney on Leafblowers Hank Chapot 10-24-2014
New: UC Berkeley Won't Let Students Dump Bill Maher Scott Morris (BCN) 10-29-2014
New: Post Office to Berkeley: Drop Dead! 10-30-2014
New: The City of Berkeley Illegally Paid $140k for Redistricting Lawsuit Against Itself and Residents (Public Comment) Anthony Sanchez 10-29-2014
Fatal Shooting Last Night Near Berkeley Marina Dan McMenamin (BCN) 10-29-2014
Updated: Vote-by-Mail Ballots Must Be Received by Tuesday Erin Baldassari (BCN)and Planet 10-28-2014
Rally on Saturday at 10:30 From Mike Lonergan 10-28-2014
New: Redwood Gardens Community Pressured by Management Lydia Gans 10-27-2014
League of Women Voters Denies Involvement on Behalf of Berkeley's Ballot Measure S, as Claimed in Pro-S Ballot Arguments Submitted by City Officials 10-23-2014
Berkeley Man Gets 12 Years for Fatally Stabbing Cal Student in 2008 Jeff Shuttleworth (BCN) 10-24-2014
Solving for XX Jonathan David Farley, D.Phil. (University of Oxford) 10-23-2014
Exclusive to The Planet: Edward Snowden's Message to Berkeley On the 50th Anniversary of the Free Speech Movement Reported by Gar Smith 10-24-2014
December 15, 1937 – October 14, 2014 10-25-2014
ECLECTIC RANT: Ebola, Like AIDS, Can Be Brought Under Control Ralph Stone 10-24-2014
THE PUBLIC EYE: What Do Millennials Want? Bob Burnett 10-24-2014
ON MENTAL ILLNESS: Paranoia Toward Psychotherapists Jack Bragen 10-24-2014
New: Another Stirring Soprano Debut in San Francisco Opera's TOSCA Reviewed by James Roy MacBean 10-28-2014
"Taxi Driver, Gay Man, Pre-teen Girl--One Iranian Actress, One BIG identity crisis." Ken Bullock 10-24-2014
Opens at the Albany Twin theater on October 24. Reviewed by Gar Smith 10-24-2014
At Berkeley's Elmwood Theater Gar Smith 10-24-2014
Press Release: Melody of China to Combine Chinese Traditional Music with Western New Music in Bay Area Premiere Performances in November 10-24-2014
Press Release: Demonstration on Saturday to Block Israeli Ship at Port of Oakland From Lara Kiswani 10-24-2014


Last weekend of January was the Edge Midwinters 2.4m regatta hosted by Edge Sailing and Charlotte Harbor YC. Some informal training sessions were held during the weekdays before the regatta including participation by Bjornar Erikstad ( NOR 1 ) before he had to return his boat to the Norwegian Sailing Team container in Miami to return home. Hopefully he can encourage other Europeans to join our winter Can Am 2.4m Regatta Series next fall by shipping their boats to Florida after the world disabled championship in Sheboygan, Wisconsin in September 2018.
With warnings from Regatta chairman Martin Holland, and laughter from the northerners, about the unseasonably cool water ( a bit less than the usual 25° C! ) the regatta got underway with three races in 10 to 20 knot winds. Dee Smith won all three with great battles for the next five positions. Day two was similar wind and wave conditions and current. Alan Leibel moved up with two seconds and the next four of Bruce Millar, Peter Eagar, builder Tony Pocklington and Charles Rosenfield had close racing. The racing was close throughout the fleet which gave lots of action at the marks and finishes.
Try to join the fleet for the February Can Am #4 regatta as well as the Western Hemisphere 2.4m Regatta and the March 27 training session followed by the Can Am finale Thursday, Friday, Saturday, March 28, 29, 30.


Russ Lundin Roofing provides the Southwest Suburbs, IL area with quality roof repair solutions. For over 60 years our experienced professionals have been providing the Napersville, IL area with quality Roof Maintenance Services. From simple maintenance and inspection to gutter repair and cleaning, we are here to help maintain your roof every step of the way.
We offer roofing repair services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We also provide warranties up to 25 years depending upon the job.