Shop Succeeding in USABO: Top tips and tricks for boosting your score in USABO!
*** You can purchase the book on Amazon!
If you are looking to boost your score in the upcoming USABO Open or Semifinal exam, look no further.


text:
Dame Vera appeals for help finding missing brooch
Veteran singer DAME VERA LYNN has offered a £150 reward for the safe return of a missing brooch.
The 94-year-old star, nicknamed The Forces' Sweetheart for visiting troops during World War II, lost the pin at a Remembrance Day service at London's Royal Albert Hall earlier this month (Nov11).
The brooch was given to her by Field Marshal Montgomery at the Royal Albert Hall more than 35 years ago to say thanks for her support.
She explains, "It means an awful lot to me. I had it on in the circle and then I was feeling it around my lapel.
"I was only thinking to myself how funny it was that this was the same place where Montgomery presented it to me."
Her daughter Virginia Lewis-Jones adds, "Financially, it is not worth very much but it holds great sentimental value. Whether she loosened it while fingering it during supper afterwards, we don't know. I phoned up the Royal Albert Hall afterwards but no one had found it. It would be lovely to have it returned."
The star has also promised to have tea with the person who returns the prized item.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


Connecting Tourist and Tour Guides in Cameroon.
To begin booking with WandaGuides, start by exploring the many tour destinations here in Cameroon. Add the destinations to your itinerary. When you have the itinerary of your dreams submit your itinerary online. Partnering tour guides receive your itinerary and create proposals customized to your needs. After receiving the proposals, pick the one that best fits your needs.
Points of Interest. Hidden Gems. Must-see Destinations.


text:
Q: Python Darknet script for object detection is not detecting anything in the input images but when ran through command line it gives proper detection I have trained a yolo v3 network by using my own data set to detect two classes.
Repository used for the training is https://github.com/AlexeyAB/darknet/
After training I used below command to get the output -
darknet.exe detector demo cfg/labelled_data.data cfg/custom_test.cfg backup/custom_train_8000.weights test_folder/test_1.mp4
If I used the above command gets expected output with 80% of accuracy.
But when i try to run the detection using the python scripts provided in the repository i am not able to get any detection.
Script in the repo for images -
https://github.com/AlexeyAB/darknet/blob/master/darknet_images.py
Script in the repo for video -
https://github.com/AlexeyAB/darknet/blob/master/darknet_video.py
I have a GPU machine which i have used for development.
I have written a opencv script to get the detection output on realtime feed. The script is working as expected but the problem is that it is not able to utilize the GPU hence resulting in very slow detection.
Any help is appreciated.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


Ilyas Safarli has graduated from Azerbaijan Cooperation University and currently working at Uluchay as an Executive Director. He is specializing in fundraising, communication, management and implementation of projects and also conducting researches on civil society and business environment topics. He is a member of European 3rd sector leaders network (Euclid), EaP Civil Society Forum's National Platform and also is a National coordinator of Global Open Forum for CSO development effectiveness.


Dhewee Park Village. A lovely Thai-Bali style house which is located in Bang Saray, a beautiful part of the countryside, but just 15 minutes away from Jomtien.
This 3 bedroom house with private swimming pool is in a nicely landscaped village, where all homes are sat on generous land plots. All rooms are well sized, and the living room feels spacious, and has access to the rear garden.
The open plan kitchen has all neccessary appliances, including fridge/freezer, oven, and washing machine.
This house is sold fully furnished. Title deed is held in a Thai name with tax & transfer split 50/50.
Also available for rent with a minimum 1 year contract.


text:
Suizhou (cinese: 随州; pinyin: Suízhōu) è una città-prefettura della Cina nella provincia dello Hubei.

Suddivisioni amministrative
Distretto di Zengdu
Guangshui
Contea di Sui

Altri progetti

Collegamenti esterni

Centri abitati dello Hubei
Suddivisioni dello Hubei
Città-prefetture

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


Charming coastal community situated along the award winning Beau Rivage golf course offering new home at affordable prices!
Willow Glen is an established golf course community now offering new quality built homes by H&H Homes on large lots at affordable prices. H&H Homes has over half a dozen floor plans to choose from and they all boast amazing upgraded features like 2x6 exterior wall construction with upgraded R 19 insulation, fiber cement siding, hardwood & tile flooring throughout the home, granite counters, ceramic tile back splash, tiled master showers and much more!
Willow Glen is located just off of Sanders Road in the Carolina Beach area of Wilmington along the back side of the Beau Rivage golf course. Being able to get to local beaches, shopping, dining and downtown Wilmington within a few minutes is an added convenience when speaking about Willow Glen. This community also offers residents a gated entrance, clubhouse and large pool as part of the HOA.
Why would Willow Glen suite your needs? Here are a few reasons why. - Coastal and charming family oriented community in a desirable area convenient to Wilmington beaches, parks, airport, downtown, schools, shopping & dining. A great community amenity package for those days you just don't want to get in your vehicle but want to relax near the water. New homes that come with a 1 year, 2 year & 10 year warranty for peace of mind. Opportunity to customize your home by selecting the floor plan with the perfect large lot and design features in your new home. Multiple home plans boasting 4+ bedrooms catering to one story living with upgraded features offered at affordable prices. Build your next home with as little as $1,000 down. No city taxes. Whats not to love?


text:
Q: Why get fade effect via shake? I have this codes:
http://jsfiddle.net/yF9bB/1/
Everything is working. But when click a button, have a shake a few second. How can i solve this?

A: Specifying the easing type seems to solved the issue. Try like below,
$('caption').click(function() {
    $(this).nextAll().toggle('fade');
});

DEMO: http://jsfiddle.net/skram/yF9bB/6/

A: In IE9 only the table seems to increase in height (shake) for a second before fading out. I would assume this is an IE bug as  other browser seem to toggle the table correctly.


Situated in the village of Glenelg with sea views to the Isle of Skye and down the Sound of Sleat, The Lodge offers luxury self-catering holiday accommodation for 2 in the Highlands of Scotland. A few minutes walk to the Glenelg Inn (bar and meals) and close to Gavin Maxwell's Sandaig, the area is ideal for otter watching with seals, eagles, deer and other wildlife spotted regularly. Local activities include hill walking, mountain biking, sea kayaking and other outdoor pursuits.
For late deals and short winter breaks - check website.


text:
Q: Crash when creating Activity Good evening Stack !
I have started to learn Android development as a hobby and I am now trying to develop my first "real" application (I have made already only five simple applications from books).
In this application, I have two buttons that will "create" the same Activity but by using two different objects from the same base class, hence allowing me to customize the behavior of the application depending on the button that was clicked.
However, when I am trying to create the Intent instance, my application crashes.
Here is the code of the base Activity class
public class BaseDictionnaryActivity extends Activity
{
    @Override
    public void onCreate(Bundle savedInstanceState)
    {
        super.onCreate(savedInstanceState);
        setContentView(R.layout.basedictionnary);
    }

    public void onDestroy()
    {
        super.onDestroy();
    }
}

and here is the code that crashes. The line is the one creating the Intent object.
public class DictionnaryActivity extends Activity
{
    private BaseDictionnaryActivity jlpt1;
    private BaseDictionnaryActivity jlpt2;

    private Button btjlpt1 = null;
    private Button btjlpt2 = null;

    @Override
    public void onCreate(Bundle savedInstanceState)
    {
        super.onCreate(savedInstanceState);
        setContentView(R.layout.dictionnary);

        jlpt2 = new BaseDictionnaryActivity();
        jlpt1 = new BaseDictionnaryActivity();

        btJLPT1 = (Button)findViewById(R.id.jlpt1);
        btJLPT1.setOnClickListener(new View.OnClickListener()
        {
            public void onClick(View v)
            {
                Intent myIntent = new Intent(DictionnaryActivity.this,
                                             jlpt1.getClass());
                jlpt1.this.startActivity(myIntent);
            }
        });
        btJLPT2 = (Button)findViewById(R.id.jlpt2);
        btJLPT2.setOnClickListener(new View.OnClickListener()
        {
            public void onClick(View v)
            {
                Intent myIntent = new Intent(DictionnaryActivity.this,
                                             jlpt2.getClass());
                jlpt2.this.startActivity(myIntent);
            }
        });
     }
     public void onDestroy()
     {
          super.onDestroy();
     }
}

Thank you for your help !

A: Just to make correction,
Intent myIntent = new Intent(DictionnaryActivity.this,
                                         jlpt1.getClass());

In this the second argument must be, your target activity BaseDictionnaryActivity.class
So, it looks something like,
Intent myIntent = new Intent(DictionnaryActivity.this,
                                         BaseDictionnaryActivity.class);
startActivity(myIntent);

Also please make sure there will be entry of BaseDictionnaryActivity in your Application's manifest file,
Which is look like,
<activity android:name=".BaseDictionnaryActivity"
         ....>
 </activity>

A: Maybe:
Intent myIntent = new Intent(DictionnaryActivity.this,
                                         BaseDictionnaryActivity.class);
startActivity(myIntent);

A: change this
 Intent myIntent = new Intent(DictionnaryActivity.this,
                                             NextActivity.class);

A: Intent myIntent = new Intent(DictionnaryActivity.this,
                                         jlpt2.class);
                                         ^^^^^^^^^^^^

You need to provide next activity .class in second argument of Intent.

A: Replace jlpt1.getClass() with NameOfClassToBeLaunched.class
Also this is bad practice to create Activity instances in other activities.


text:
1 Latvia 1 Mongolia 1 Ukraine
(-) 3 Soviet Bloc Independence Campaigns (1989-1991)
(-) 3 (Mainly or Initiated by) Student Participants
3 Democracy 3 National/Ethnic Identity 1 Human Rights
Ukrainian students hunger strike and protest against government, 1990
2 October, 1990 to 17 October, 1990
Yein Pyo, 14/09/2012
Dissatisfied with lack of democracy and the Soviet Union's influence on their country, Ukrainian university students in L'viv established the Student Brotherhood in March of 1989. In December students in the capital city of Kiev formed the Ukrainian Students Union.
Latvians campaign for national independence, 1989-1991
August, 1989 to September, 1991
Anthony Phalen and Max Rennebohm, 06/11/2009 and 23/05/2011
The Baltic republics of Latvia, Estonia and Lithuania achieved their independence from the Soviet Union by conducting movements based on nonviolence. Tactics included: nonviolent protests, noncooperation, and defiance to combat Soviet military intervention and political intrusion. The problems for Latvia in particular were born after the Soviet occupation following World War II. From that point forward the Soviet leaders employed a program to eradicate the previous Latvian society and to force the "Sovietization" of Latvian society.
Mongolians win multi-party democracy, 1989-1990
December 10, 1989 to May 10, 1990
Jasper Goldberg and Max Rennebohm, 01/12/2009 and 23/05/2011
In 1921 the Mongolian People's Revolutionary Party (MPRP) came to power and soon aligned the country with the USSR. Until this democracy campaign in 1989, the MPRP ruled Mongolia through a constitutionally-sanctioned single-party government. By the mid-1980's, pro-reform sentiments and movements were spreading in Eastern Europe, especially at the universities. However, Mongolians remained isolated from all of this except for the few students who could afford to study abroad in Eastern Europe.


text:
Mesquite Teen 4th Sibling In Her Family To Be Valedictorian
By Yona Gavino May 24, 2018 at 4:11 pm
Filed Under:Abigail Bautista, Local TV, Mesquite ISD, North Mesquite High School, Valedictorian
MESQUITE, Texas (CBSDFW.COM) – Mesquite ISD held a special luncheon Thursday to celebrate their highest graduating achievers. Among them is a young lady whose unique distinction has earned her a full ride to college.
It's a record-setting achievement at Mesquite ISD. Four valedictorians from the same family.
Abigail Bautista and her three older siblings all attended North Mesquite High School and were all named, valedictorian.
Abigail Bautista – North Mesquite High valedictorian (courtesy: Bautista family)
"My brother was being announced as valedictorian and he was like, "No pressure, little sis.' And I was, 'ooh, singling me out! Yikes!'" said Bautista.
Eighteen-year-old Abigail has a 3.98 grade point average and is the family's newest valedictorian. She's the fourth of five kids in the family — originally from the Philippines.
"America has so many opportunities we couldn't dream about in our little hometown," said Bautista.
Her mother says the family faced financial and health struggles.
"We had a lot of difficulties when we came here because my husband had a brain tumor at that time, so he was being operated on," said Imelda Bautista.
The hardships inspired the four older children, who came to the U.S. in 2007, to succeed.
"There are people back home who are struggling who we have to help out," said Abigail.
She gives credit to her teacher, parents and siblings, but admits the formula for success is found within.
"It's not necessarily the grades you get or the amount of study, but the motivation to want to learn and to really be engaged in what you're doing, is I think, really the key to become valedictorian," said Abigail.
Her youngest brother is currently a freshman at North Mesquite. But here mom's not worried.
"We always tell him, 'are you pressured?' But he's the most intelligent among them all!" said Imelda.
Abigail has a full ride to college and the support of parents who always knew she could do it.
"I'm so proud. Even though we don't have that much money, my kids are smart, respectful, and they give the most of themselves. So I'm proud of them," said Imelda.
Abigail plans to study English literature and educational studies. Her goal is to become an educator and inspire students in the classroom.


James Joyce (1882–1941) was an Irish novelist and poet whose famous concluding lines of Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man—"I go to encounter for the millionth time the reality of experience and to forge in the smithy of my soul the uncreated conscience of my race"—were borne out in works that helped raise Irish identity beyond the oppression of British rule—Ulysses, Finnegans Wake, The Dubliners. Within a generation, Joyce and his works became the signal Irish institution on the global stage.
The former tenant of our house, a priest, had died in the back drawing-room. Air, musty from having been long enclosed, hung in all the rooms, and the waste room behind the kitchen was littered with old useless papers. Among these I found a few paper-covered books, the pages of which were curled and damp: The Abbot, by Walter Scott, The Devout Communicant and The Memoirs of Vidocq. I liked the last best because its leaves were yellow. The wild garden behind the house contained a central apple-tree and a few straggling bushes under one of which I found the late tenant's rusty bicycle-pump. He had been a very charitable priest; in his will he had left all his money to institutions and the furniture of his house to his sister.
When the short days of winter came dusk fell before we had well eaten our dinners. When we met in the street the houses had grown sombre. The space of sky above us was the colour of ever-changing violet and towards it the lamps of the street lifted their feeble lanterns. The cold air stung us and we played till our bodies glowed. Our shouts echoed in the silent street. The career of our play brought us through the dark muddy lanes behind the houses where we ran the gantlet of the rough tribes from the cottages, to the back doors of the dark dripping gardens where odours arose from the ashpits, to the dark odorous stables where a coachman smoothed and combed the horse or shook music from the buckled harness. When we returned to the street light from the kitchen windows had filled the areas. If my uncle was seen turning the corner we hid in the shadow until we had seen him safely housed. Or if Mangan's sister came out on the doorstep to call her brother in to his tea we watched her from our shadow peer up and down the street. We waited to see whether she would remain or go in and, if she remained, we left our shadow and walked up to Mangan's steps resignedly. She was waiting for us, her figure defined by the light from the half-opened door. Her brother always teased her before he obeyed and I stood by the railings looking at her. Her dress swung as she moved her body and the soft rope of her hair tossed from side to side.


text:
Q: Creating the program of tokenization I need a help. I have to write a program of tokenization. I load a text file and split it into tokens, but I also need to display the final, initial position of the words and the word length (from text file). I'll be very grateful to you for any help. I've been trying to do this for the past 3 days  with no luck, here is what I have done:
import java.util.StringTokenizer;
import java.io.*;

public class Tokenizer1 {

public static void main(String[] args) throws FileNotFoundException, IOException {
    BufferedReader br = new BufferedReader(new FileReader("C://text.txt"));
    FileWriter fw=new FileWriter("C://result.txt");
    PrintWriter pw=new PrintWriter(fw);
    StringTokenizer st = new StringTokenizer(br.readLine()," ");
    while (st.hasMoreTokens()) {
        System.out.println(st.nextToken());
    }
    String[] tokens = "".split(",");
    int tokenStartIndex = 0;
    for (String token : tokens) {
        for (String token : str.split(", ")) {
            System.out.println("token: " + token + ", tokenStartIndex: " +    tokenStartIndex);
            tokenStartIndex += token.length() + 1;
        }
    }
}

A: Try this one if you don't need to process the file line by line:
public static void main(String[] args) throws FileNotFoundException, IOException {
    FileInputStream fis = new FileInputStream("C:/text.txt");
    StringBuilder sb = new StringBuilder();

    int c;
    while((c = fis.read()) != -1) {
        sb.append((char)c);
    }
    fis.close();

    System.out.println(sb.toString());
    System.out.println("---------------------");

    int start = 0;

    // OPTION 1: using String.split method
    String[] tokens = sb.toString().split("[\\s,]+");
    for(String t : tokens) {
        System.out.println("START: " + start + "\tLENGTH: " + t.length() + "\tWORD: " + t);
        start += t.length();
    }

    start = 0;

    // OPTION 2: using StringTokenizer class
    StringTokenizer st = new StringTokenizer(sb.toString(), ",\t\n\f\r");
    while(st.hasMoreTokens()) {
        String next = st.nextToken();
        System.out.println("START: " + start + "\tLENGTH: " + next.length() + "\tWORD: " + next);
        start += next.length();
    }
}

If you need to process the file line by line, you might wanna try this one:
public static void main(String[] args) throws FileNotFoundException, IOException {
    BufferedReader br = new BufferedReader(new FileReader("C:/text.txt"));

    StringBuilder sb = new StringBuilder();
    String line;
    int lineNumber = -1;
    while ((line = br.readLine()) != null) {
        ++lineNumber;
        sb.append(line);
        System.out.println("\nLINE: " + lineNumber);
        int elementPosition = 0;

        // OPTION 1: using String.split method
        /*String[] lineContents = line.split("[\\s,]+");
        for (String content : lineContents) {
            System.out.println("\tSTART: " + elementPosition + "\tLENGTH: " + content.length() + "\tWORD: " + content);
            elementPosition += content.length();
        }*/

        // OPTION 2: using StringTokenizer class
        StringTokenizer st = new StringTokenizer(sb.toString(), ",\t\n\f\r");
        while(st.hasMoreTokens()) {
            String next = st.nextToken();
            System.out.println("\tSTART: " + elementPosition + "\tLENGTH: " + next.length() + "\tWORD: " + next);
            elementPosition += next.length();
        }
    }
    br.close();
}

I hope this helps.


text:
Carved animal petroglyph on a rock in Western Tien-Shan mountains, Uzbekistan
© Sergey Shik / Shutterstock
Tereksai Petroglyphs
In UNESCO's Western Tien-Shan mountains the Tereksai Petroglyphs are the historical and cultural remnants of ancient civilizations.
The Chatkal Biosphere Reserve is home to unique and famous collections of petroglyph images. The Tereksai Petroglyph contains some of the highest concentrations of life-size petroglyphs and geometric patterns. The discovered petroglyphs are thousands of years old, and dated back to the stone age between 8000 BCE and 2700 BCE.
For many Uzbekistan peoples, the Chatkal Biosphere Reserve is revered and sacred. Archaeological rock carvings sites show groups of people that left their mark and cultural heritage on this land. The petroglyphs and pictographs provide symbolic communication between ages and show the spirituality of the people that lived there. The preservation of rock paintings is a testament to cultural and scientific rock art research.
There are traditions and ceremonial engravings depicted on the rock surfaces. We pay respect to the importance of these images by observing petroglyph sites from a distance. They are allowing future generations to hear ancient stories from this national petroglyph monument.


label stepped in 1/2 inch increments.
Covered Label by giving you the in-between sizes.
Label #6: 1.75" x 2.75"
This unique die will cut 4 frames + 1 rectangle all in one pass.
your card for an eclectic background effect.
This 4"x4" quilt block features the popular flying geese pattern with stitched pieces.
There is so much you can do with this die besides re-creating the traditional quilt square. If you omit the stitched triangles, you have an interesting framework which can be overlayed on a larger image. Or, you can use the stitched triangles alone on a card to make corners, borders, pinwheels and so much more!
Let your creativity run wild with this die!!
Need some sentiments to match this die?
As with the Flying Geese Quilt Square (FRA9472), this block can also be used in different ways. When you cut it out, you get tons of geometric pieces which can be used to create other designs. For example, the stitched circle portion that comes out of the handle can create a wonderful stitched scalloped edge accent. Or, use the triangles to create corners, diamonds and square.
This die is a must for the puzzle lover with a creative mind!
lay flat on your card, and another to fold for a 3D banner.
the new clear stamp set: Arched Banners and Greetings (FRAS001).
The flat banner measures 3.625" x 1.5" total with a working space of 3.25" x 0.5" for a greeting.
and has the same working space of 3.25" x 0.5".
the new clear stamp set: Wavy Banners and Greetings (FRAS002).
The flat banner measures 3.2" x 1" total with a working space of 2.75" x 0.625" for a greeting.
and has the same working space of 2.75" x 0.625".
. Mix and match them to create fun looks, hang them on twine, stamp letters inside, etc.
Approximate banner piece size is 0.875" x 1.25"
Grill measures a generous 1.75" wide x 2.75" tall without the lid.
The lid is 1.75" wide x 0.75" tall.
With the complete set, you can make Dad or Hubby a great masculine card.
This die set contains all you need to create a burger your way by layering all the pieces.
onion and even the pickles and mustard!
Finished size (depending on assembly) is approx. 2.25" x 2"
a traditional tie and a bandana. Perfect for making a great card for dad!
a wide tie, bow tie and a pipe.
3 styles of mustaches, a scarf, simple knotted tie and oriental collar.
A fun jeans pocket with a great stitched pattern sewn right in.
You can tuck so many things into this pocket to make cards for all occasions.
Set this up in a farm scene, or make a "you're a classic" birthday card.
I could picture a pine tree (FRA9493) in the back of the truck too.
and you have everything you need to create a lush forest scene.
This tree also makes a wonderful small Christmas tree.
a gate (1" x 1.2") and a post (0.25" x 1.5").
mortar board measuring 2.75" x 1.875"
Add "Congrats" word (FRA9496) for the perfect sentiment.
The largest swirl in this set measures 2" x 2.25"
The smallest is 1.375" x 1.5"
embellishment for many of your projects.
This set includes 10 clear stamps (9 everyday greetings + an arched banner).
of the 2 banner dies in the set.
(in other words, the die is NOT sized to cut the stamp).
This set includes 10 clear stamps (9 everyday greetings + a wavy banner).
Use it alone, or combine them with the Frantic Stamper Precision Die set: Wavy Banners (FRA9475). All the greetings will fit either of the 2 banner dies in the set.
including tiny quilt blocks, buttons, dress forms, spool of thread and more.
"Well Done" and "Kiss the cook", as well as fun icons.
Barbecue Tools (FRA9479), and Build-A-Burger (FRA9480).
in the Barbecue Outfit die set.
This set includes 19 clear stamps to celebrate the sweetness in your life.
Delicious Cupcake (FRA9464) and many more.
This set includes 16 clear stamps in a fun bug theme and many bee sayings.
This set includes 15 clear stamps in a snail, slug and butterfly theme.
Large Solid Swallowtail & Butterfly Icons (FRA9420).


text:
Dismay at poll delay
CAMPAIGNERS say they are disappointed after a referendum on a Yorkshire regional assembly was postponed.
The about-turn by the Government came just hours after a senior spokesman denied the all-postal vote would be delayed.
The hold-up is an embarrassment for Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott.
He has made the creation of regional assemblies - including one for Yorkshire and North and North-East Lincolnshire - the centrepiece of his plans for reform of local government.
A vote on a north-west England regional assembly is also being called off, but a poll in the north-east will go ahead as scheduled on November 4.
Doubts were raised after allegations of electoral fraud in all-postal ballots trialled in local government and European Parliament elections in June.
Lord Rooker, minister at the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, said: "We are a listening Government.
"Except where there is a pressing expectation and support for an early all-postal referendum, we have concluded the right course now is not to proceed with the orders setting up referendums on November 4."
He said the Government would now wait for an Electoral Commission report on all-postal votes.
The Yes4Yorkshire campaign group said it was disappointed.
Jane Thomas, the campaign's director, said: "We are delighted that one region is being given the opportunity to put devolution to the test of the electorate, but obviously disappointed it will not be us here in Yorkshire."
Conservative regional government spokesman Bernard Jenkin said:
"It is little more than a cynical ploy to spare the Government's humiliation in regions where there is no public demand for another pointless layer of bureaucracy which would only take power even further away from local communities."
Local Government Minister Nick Raynsford told MPs a further statement would be made in September on how the Government plans to proceed.


At Mi Vision Eye Care, our goal is to promote good eye health and enable you to have the clearest vision possible. We accept most vision insurance, cash, checks, and credit cards. We do honor Care Credit and help you to apply if interested to make payment plans. We accept the cryptocurrency Bitcoin and other forms of payments such as PayPal and Venmo.
The knowledgeable staff at Mi Vision Eye Care is experienced in working with vision insurance providers. We will work directly with you and your vision insurer to submit claims regarding your vision care. We strive to ensure that you understand your insurance coverage and will answer any questions you may have regarding your benefits. Many current vision plans are designed to cover most of the basic vision-related costs, but not all costs associated with eye care. Most plans often require a co-payment for an office appointment as well as additional costs that are covered by the insured patient.
Our San Antonio optometry staff understands that cost is a concern when evaluating vision care providers. We do not want cost to be an obstacle to maintaining proper eye health and good vision. We accept various forms of payment and are able to discuss financing options with you prior to any examination. At Mi Vision Eye Care, we also accept cash, check, and major credit cards. Call (210) 923-2020 today to schedule your eye exam today.


text:
The Japanese manga series Yona of the Dawn is written and illustrated by Mizuho Kusanagi.  Kusanagi began serializing the manga in Hakusensha's Hana to Yume shōjo manga magazine on August 4, 2009.

The story follows Yona, a princess of the fictional kingdom of Kohka.  She is forced to go on the run with her friend and bodyguard Son Hak when her childhood friend Su-won murders her father and takes the throne.

Viz Media announced their license to the series during their panel at New York Comic Con on October 9, 2015, along with their plans to publish the first volume in summer 2016.

An original anime DVD adapting two bonus chapters from the twelfth volume was included in a limited edition of the manga's nineteenth volume on September 18, 2015.  Two more OADs will be included with the twenty-first and twenty second volumes of the manga on August 19, 2016, and December 20, 2016, respectively.

Hakusensha published the first tankōbon volume on January 19, 2010, and since then a total of forty volumes have been released. Viz Media published the first volume in North America on August 2, 2016.

Volumes

Novel

References

External links
  at Hana to Yume

Yona of the Dawn


text:
Dolichiscus purpureus är en kräftdjursart som först beskrevs av Frank Evers Beddard 1886.  Dolichiscus purpureus ingår i släktet Dolichiscus och familjen Austrarcturellidae. Inga underarter finns listade i Catalogue of Life.

Källor

Gråsuggor och tånglöss
purpureus


text:
Homeless in Vancouver
Health Notes
Only over half of Canadian households aware about radon, the number one cause of lung cancer for non-smokers
by Carlito Pablo on December 1st, 2020 at 10:33 AM
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It's a colourless, odourless, and tasteless gas.
It kills.
It's the number one cause of lung cancer for non-smokers in Canada.
Despite the grave health risks it poses, this naturally occuring radioactive gas called radon is not widely known.
Just over half or 54 percent of Canadian households reported that they had heard of radon.
This was revealed in a households and environment survey by Statistics Canada.
According to the federal agency, 63 percent of those who reported that have heard of radon were able to identify the correct description of the gas when asked to pick from a list.
Statistics Canada released the results of the survey done in 2019 on Tuesday (December 1).
The poll results indicated that awareness about radon is rising from the 49 percent level in 2017.
In 2019, Statistics Canada reported, six percent of non-apartment households that had heard of radon indicated that they had "tested for radon at some point in the past".
Of these households, 85 percent had tested within the previous 10 years, according to the agency.
About eight perent of households that had tested their home reported that a problem had been found, Statistics Canada stated.
According to Lung Cancer Canada, the Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Surgeon General estimate that around 21,000 lung cancer deaths every year in the U.S. are attributable to radon exposure.
The charitable organization also notes online that Health Canada estimates radon-induced lung cancer deaths make up to approximately 16 percent of all lung cancers in Canada.
Moreover, around 3,200 Canadians die annually because of radon exposure.
Citing an estimate by the World Health Organization, Lung Cancer Canada notes that approximately 189,000 of the 1.4 million people that die annually from lung cancer got sick because of radon.
According to Statistics Canada, radon tends to accumulate in basements and crawlspaces.
"After smoking, it is the second-leading cause of lung cancer in Canada," the agency stated.
Health Canada explains online that radon comes from the "breakdown of uranium in soil and rock".
When released from the ground into the outdoor air, radon is "diluted and is not a concern".
"However, in enclosed spaces, like homes, it can accumulate to high levels and become a risk to the health of you and your family," Health Canada advises.
Health Canada recommends buying a test kit or hiring a professional to do the test. To take action, click here.
Follow Carlito Pablo on Twitter @carlitopablo
Carlito Pablo
@carlitopablo
Staff writer Carlito Pablo lives in Vancouver. On sunny weekends, he and his family are usually found on beaches and in parks. A journalist who formerly worked in Manila, he's a proud new Canadian.


Luke's love of cycling has taken him from bike-riding at a young age, to the 2019 Special Olympics World Summer Games. He has been chosen to represent Team GB at the Games, which take place in March 2019 in Abu Dhabi. This is a huge achievement for Luke, and he is really looking forward to taking part in this exciting event!
Luke is really enjoying his course, particularly "learning and trying new things." He has especially loved the cooking classes and preparing his favourite dishes. Outside of College, Luke undertakes work experience at the Salvation Army shop in Redhill, which is a great insight into the working world and helps to develop key skills.
2019 is sure to be a great year for Luke as he travels to Abu Dhabi, and we wish him the best of luck!


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The doggy's eyes come first (00 min 09 sec). Each has with two spots that should be colored white. Make sure the right eye is positioned a bit higher than the one on the left. The cute nose is the next step in this how to draw A Puppy In A Vampire Costume tutorial (00 min 45 sec).
Again, leave a white spot in there, just like we did in the video. The muzzle and the mouth are pretty simple (01 min 04 sec). We can only see two of the dog's teeth – add them next (01 min 17 sec). If you're happy with everything, switch to the cheeks. You'll need a C-like shape for both sides. The ears look like the V-sign.
At the same time, make sure the shape is curvy and fluffy, not sharp (01 min 44 sec). To complete this part of the how to draw A Puppy In A Vampire Costume, add a simple horizontal line to finish the head (02 min 12 sec). The "medal" sits right below the mouth (02 min 26 sec). The feet are very primitive but fit the drawing perfectly (02 in 43 sec). The fancy cape is the final part (03 min 50 sec).
Before you learn how to draw A Puppy In A Vampire Costume, did you know?
It's no secret that puppies are incredibly popular as pets all over the world. And so, the kids tend to come up with new, sometimes crazy ideas that involve their favorite four-legged friends. In the Americas, it's very common for the owners to dress their dogs and cats.
In the United States, during Halloween, some people also like to make dresses and suits for their pets, but it's not as common. In this particular example, we've got a cute puppy in a vampire's costume. Looks pretty cool, doesn't it? Just make sure the pure creature feels comfortable in that tight thing.


A broad range of organisations and individuals representing the Sheffield area's very diverse heritage sector have come together to explore ways to develop a better resourced, better connected and better communicated heritage offer for a wide range of audiences.
Key partners include: Sheffield Civic Trust, Sheffield Cathedral, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield City Council, Sheffield Manor Lodge, The Workers' Educational Association, Time Walk Project, Heeley City Farm, Sheaf Valley Heritage, South Yorkshire Through Time, ArcHeritage, Portland Works, Ignite Imaginations and many others.
This Joined up Heritage Sheffield group has been meeting since autumn 2014, and has developed a work plan for delivering key priorities that include contributing to Year of Making Sheffield 2016.
Membership is open to anyone who subscribes to the group's aims and is ready to make a positive contribution to the group's activities, including attending meetings and on occasions and as appropriate undertaking additional work as necessary for achieving the group's aims.
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Increase local, regional and national awareness of the Sheffield area's heritage stories, sites and assets, bringing people to the city and making a positive contribution to the visitor economy.
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Members are respectfully requested to respond to reasonable communication requests associated with furthering the group's aims and activities.


text:
Classical Discussion
Concerts: previews / reviews
Started by papsrus, 17 Dec 2014
papsrus
I have some lined up this winter. Perhaps others might like to comment on concerts, festivals, operas, etc., that they are either planning to attend, or have recently attended, with their observations, impressions, etc.
The biggies this winter for me are as follows:
Jan. 29:
New York Philharmonic with Emanuel Ax, piano; David Robertson, conductor; Avery Fisher Hall
Rachmaninoff -- Vocalise
Chopin -- Piano Concerto No.2
Stravinsky -- The Song of the Nightingale
Bartok -- The Miraculous Mandarin Suite
Chicago Symphony Orchestra; Riccardo Muti, conductor; Carnegie Hall
Mendelssohn -- Calm Sea and Prosperous Voyage Overture
Debussy -- La Mer
Scriabin -- Symphony No.3, "The Divine Poem"
Friday Feb. 27:
Cleveland Orchestra -- Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, Miami
Beethoven Symphony No. 3, ("Eroica")
Shostakovich Symphony No. 6
Saturday Feb. 28:
These are the out of town concerts I've got tickets for so far. I'm particularly looking forward to the NYPO and Ax with the Chopin piece. I toyed with the idea of taking Amtrack down to Philadelphia while I'm in New York to see the Philadelphia Orchestra at the Kimmel Center, but didn't want to push it.
Also have tickets for a bunch of stuff locally after the new year, which I'll chime in with as they occur (if anyone shows any interest here). Among those I'm looking forward to are two string quarter performances at the Sarasota Opera House that are part of La Music Festival, which takes place here each spring.
Posted 12 Jan 2015 (edited)
I see my little concert thread is generating lots of interest ....
Went to a performance this afternoon by the Sarasota Orchestra led by conductor/music director Anu Tali, in her first full season leading the orchestra.
Strauss -- Death and Transfiguration
Mozart -- Piano Concerto No. 21 in C major (Tamara Stefanovich, piano)
Tchaikovsky -- Romeo and Juliet Fantasy Overture
Ravel -- Suite No. 2 from Daphnis et Chloe
The opening piece -- Death and Transfiguration -- was certainly played beautifully by the orchestra, but it begins so gently that it was a bit hard to grab hold of with the audience still settling in and rustling around a little bit. (The patrons here are probably even older on average than your typical classical concert audience because of the large retiree population here. Upper respiratory issues seem to be not uncommon).
The piano concerto was delivered skillfully in the very capable hands of Stefanovich, with the orchestra parred down to near chamber size. It's a piece that allows a skilled pianist to show their stuff, and Stefanovich certainly did that.
The Romeo and Juliet overture was fine, but felt perfunctory somehow. Beautiful music played with sensitivity, but nothing really stood out.
The highlight for me was the Ravel, with full orchestra of about 90 strong navigating the shifting tempos with aplomb. Various sections of the orchestra each took their moment to shine, which I really enjoyed. The orchestra really played with assurance and muscle here. The audience that rustled a bit through Strauss was transfixed here.
We're fortunate to have Tali leading the orchestra. She replaced a music director who had been at the helm for about 15 years.
Overall a solid B+ performance, elevated by both the Mozart concerto and the Ravel.
The theme of the concert, for those who haven't detected it yet from the pieces, was "In Love." All three performances were sold out, which is nice. Sat near the rear, center and the orchestra sounded great. Much more balanced than a previous concert where I was off to the right so that the cellos kind of had their backs to me, and so were somewhat lost to me. Center = better.
Edited 16 Jan 2015 by papsrus
Philharmonie de Paris opens.
NYT weighs in here.
Looks like a pretty incredible performance space, vineyard-style seating with pods / sections drooping all around the stage as if from a Dali painting.
The hall's not yet finished, so final verdict is a ways off, but the initial response of the above critic certainly seems positive. And the orchestra apparently gave the place a pretty good workout on opening night.
EDIT: The Guardian agrees.
papsrus, good idea for the thread.
I am attending Hespèrion XXI performing Biber's Missa Salisburgensis. The full line-up is here: http://konzerthaus.at/kh/d/0201_detail_frame.asp?KHGVA=true&vaid=0015e412
Will post my impressions.
Vienna Austria Konzerthaus January 17th, 2015
Marche pour le Carrousel Royal de Louis XIV
Michel-Richard de la Lande
Caprice de Villers-Cotteret
Marc-Antoine Charpentier
Tristis est anima mea / Petit motet H 382
Sola vivebat in antris / Petit motet H 388
Symphonie à 3 g-moll H 529
Tenebrae factae sunt / Petit motet H 386
O Lacrymae fideles / Grand motet LWV 26
Te Deum / Grand motet LWV 55
ENCORE :
Cadmus et Herminone Finale
Le Poème Harmonique, Ensemble
Capella Cracoviensis, Choir
Vincent Dumestre, Director
Amel Brahim-Djelloul, Sopran
Claire Lefilliâtre, Sopran
Jean-François Lombard, Tenor
Jeffrey Thompson, Tenor
Benoît Arnould, Bass
Marvellous performance - highlighted by Lully`s Te Deum and the Finale from Lully`s first Opera Cadmus et Hermione (have to go now for the DVD from 2009 !!)......nuanced singing by the soloists and remarkable sensitivity from the woodwind players.....perfect start into the concert season 2015....
Edited 17 Jan 2015 by soulpope
David Ayers
Dr. Funkenstein
Meanwhile the Barbican in London has announced its 2015-16 season http://www.barbican.org.uk/classical1516/media/summary-sheet.pdf
Standouts include Gergiev in a Bartók/Stravinsky series, Immersion Days on Andriessen, Górecki and Dutilleux, and so much more. Wynton Marsalis violin concerto! Two Mahler 3s in there, one of them from LA. And so much more, as you can see.
There will be another stack of stuff announced soon at the Royal Festival Hall, not quite the same range as at the Barbican but all grist to the mill.
What have you got going on in your town...?
OK I know no-one can match all that. But don't be jealous - just come and live here.
Three Benjamin concerts, three Macmillan concerts, only two Ades though (I know - almost as if we are not even interested in music here...); Fleming, Bartoli, Villazon; Bronfman, Pires, Aimard (in Vingt Regards !!); Tetzlaff, Kavakos, Znaider, Batiashvili, etc.
The only down side of the London concert season is all the things you have to miss.
Had to do a double-take when I saw this:
LSO Composer Focus: Thomas Adès
Thomas Adès Polaris
Brahms Violin Concerto
Thomas Adès Brahms
Thomas Adès Tevot
Thomas Adès conductor
Anne-Sophie Mutter violin
That is a feast.
As I've been veering toward Haydn lately, it's nice to see a smattering there. Not much, but that seems generally the case anywhere. Still welcome.
As well you'll have a generous helping of the old war horses alongside the unfamiliar -- a few premiers.
And you can stumble through the door for most of these concerts for very reasonable prices -- $15 equivalent. I'm lucky to pay under $50 to join the cattle call at my local barn to listen to an orchestra that, while fine, is obviously well below the standard for those that appear at the Barbican. Obviously. Even when an out-of-town orchestra makes a whistle stop here, it's usually a second- or third tier band. (The Royal Phil with Pinchas Zuckerman did touch down here for one night a few weeks ago, but I was unable to go.)
Damn you!
Yes London concerts are not expensive.
I'm on a Haydn kick myself at the moment - the classic RCO/Davis London Symphonies. Those are recordings I can just keep coming back to.
I've been wanting to investigate his string quartets. The man's output was overall so staggering that it's hard to know where to begin.
So, here it goes.
Hespèrion XXI, Ensemble Le Concert des Nations, Orchester La Capella Reial de Catalunya,
Ensemble Hanna Bayodi-Hirt, Sopran Marianne Beate Kielland, Mezzosopran Pascal Bertin, Countertenor David Sagastume, Countertenor Nicholas Mulroy, Tenor Lluis Vilamajó, Tenor Daniele Carnovich, Bass Antonio Abete, Bass Jordi Savall, Leitung
Bartholomäus Riedl Ist ein schöner Aufzug Ein langer und schöner Aufzug
Heinrich Ignaz Franz Biber Plaudite tympana à 53 (1682)) Battalia à 10 (1673) Sonata Sancti Polycarpi à 9 (1673) Missa Salisburgensis à 53 (1682)
Encore: Heinrich Ignaz Franz Biber Gloria (Missa Salisburgensis à 53) (1682)
The hall was packed - mostly with retirees, but there were some youngish faces. I decided not to familiarize myself with the music beforehand, so it was all fresh for me. The instrumentalists were good, although from where I was sitting it seemed like horn players on the left and on the right (they were positioned in semi-circle on the balcony) were a bit out of sync - but it might be just due to my being positioned right upfront and to the side (this is what you get when you buy the tickets in the last moment). The music was good, but fairly predictable. There was an interesting moment in Riedl's piece (never even heard of Riedl, btw) that sounded really dissonant - gotta check out if this was intended or some performance fuck-up.
The singers (there were 16) were excellent, female ones (two mezzos, two sopranos) in particular. One of the sopranos was on the last weeks of pregnancy, had to hold her belly when bowing. It is heroic that she managed to stand the whole concert. She was outstanding, which was a relief, since being positioned right next to her, she was whom mostly heard. I really enjoyed the (very few) polyphonic moments when the whole choir was singing - otherwise, these were mostly solos / duos. Pretty, but repetitive. I had my regular qualm with vocal choir music reinforced - the "s" sound (and "t" to a lesser extent) is so pronounced - particularly when the whole choir is singing, then it really sounds like a snake pit - it affects my enjoyment of the music. I should start a petition to ban the use of texts in favor of wordless (and consonant-less) vocalizing.
Mandatory thundering applause (I still have to attend a concert in Vienna that would not end in 10-minute ovation, retirees are very polite here). And an encore from which I escaped.
Edited 21 Jan 2015 by Д.Д.
Thanks for posting. Most comment I have read about this piece - which I have never heard - concentrates on the (for the period) lavish use of instruments, and also the spatial deployment of the singers and musicians. I guess there was not much use of space, but how about the instruments? I wonder if a stage-presentation somewhat neutralises the effects of the instruments and makes them sound more like the backing-band?
Also I wonder if Alia Vox will issue this. Savall does issue a lot of stuff...
Yes, it was deployed. The singers ware in semicircle all through the stage. Same with the musicians - symmetrically split over central stage (two violins on extreme right - two on extreme left, and so on). A lot of singing and playing was in call-and-response fashion from one side to the other. Since I was sitting on the side this was lost on me.
have been a (partially dedicated) follower of Jordi Savall and his projects for a couple of decades, but now being on hold for quite some time regarding his new recordings/concerts etc......IMO the spontaneity of his music (which had during the years 1980 to the early 2000`s at the same time an unbelievable precision) somehow got lost......don`t have an explanation ( probably being beleaguered with the additional economical responsibilty by going indipendent via Alia Vox...or the death of his wife Montserrat Figueras ?) for this impressions.......
don`t get me wrong, the performance you`ve witnessed for sure was still a good one and a baroque music festival needs some well known "names" as headliners, but still would wish the organizers of "Resonanzen" in future would look for alternatives like for instance
Sébastien Daucé & Ensemble Correspondances
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QDD7tDMl64Q
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uxgJX9IUAX8
just my 5 cent worth....
ps this ensemble`s recent Étienne Moulinié recording is excellent....
Edited 1 Feb 2015 by soulpope
Got it - thanks.
Thanks for your impressions of the Konzerthaus performance.
I like the idea that you didn't familiarize yourself with the music before attending the concert. Listening to music live is (or can be) much more of a visceral experience than listening to recorded music, I find. You're very much in the moment. Part of the shared experience. And when the music is completely new to you, perhaps that sense of being in the moment is even more heightened.
Anyways, glad you enjoyed and thanks for your thoughts.
LPO has announced ints 2015-16 season
http://issuu.com/londonphilharmonic/docs/lpo_season_brochure_201516_web
I'd pick out appearances by Kavakos and PatKop, a new violin concerto from Lindberg (as well as the old one) and a rare-ish outings for Die Seejungfrau. Jurowski worth watching in Mahler 7 and Alpine Symphony.
This afternoon:
A chamber performance titled "Trumpet," featuring some of the principals of the Sarasota Orchestra -- although trumpets were featured only in the first, brief piece and the final piece. More on that below.
I sat dead center, three rows back in the cozy 250-or-so seat hall.
Britten -- Fanfare for St. Edmunsbury
Mendelssohn -- Piano Trio No. 1 in D minor, Op. 49
Strauss -- Serenade in E flat major, Op. 7
Vivaldi -- Concerto for Two Trumpets in C major, RV 537
The Britten is a short call and response piece. For this performance one trumpet was positioned center stage, one trumpet was in the upper right balcony at the side of the stage, the third was in the upper left balcony at the other side of the stage. Very effective for this brief intro piece, which also includes some nice polyphony with all three trumpets. Short, sweet.
The Mendelssohn was the standout. Piano, cello, violin. I've heard the violinist, Jennifer Best Takeda, in another string quartet she performs with in a local church here and she's wonderful. This was, to me, the best music of the afternoon, played with real sensitivity and passion. I was pleased but curious as to why it was included in a performance ostensibly devoted to trumpet / brass / woodwind pieces. Nonetheless, the packed house ate this one up, bursting into a brief, spontaneous (but frowned upon) round of applause after the first movement. Beautiful melodies with the melodic lines passed around among the instruments, then developed, then returned to again and passed around. I'll have to listen to this piece again.
The Strauss was performed by a 13-piece ensemble, all woodwinds with french horns. Particularly enjoyed paying attention to the bassoon and contrabassoon players as they provided what could almost be described as a little funk to the proceedings. Another brief piece -- perhaps 10 minutes.
They wheeled out a harpsichord for the Vivaldi, and a string ensemble of perhaps 12 players backed the principal and co-principal trumpet players from the orchestra for this piece. The principals played beautifully together. The one disappointment was that the harpsichord was barely audible. I had high hopes for this but they positioned the instrument so that it was pointing straight out toward the audience rather than sideways, as they typically do with a piano. And it was in the center-back of the ensemble. Maybe this is typical, I don't know. They must have thought about this, but the instrument was mostly lost behind the trumpets, certainly, and the strings on either side.
All in all, Mendelssohn's piano trio gets an A. The rest fell somewhere short that fine performance, but very enjoyable nonetheless.
Posted 1 Feb 2015 (edited)
Just back from two great nights in New York.
New York Philharmonic; Emanuel Ax, piano; David Robertson, conductor
Avery Fisher Hall
Rachmaninoff - Vocalise
Chopin - Piano Concerto No. 2
(intermission)
Stravinsky - Firebird Suite (substituted for the originally programmed The Song of the Nightingale)
Bartok - The Miraculous Mandarin Suite
OK, I don't feel qualified to comment on the interpretations given or the strengths of the orchestra, beyond saying that the NYPO and Ax were both excellent. I was most interested in the Chopin, as the concerto's exquisite lyricism and melodic beauty captured me from the first time I listened to it. I enjoyed it with the following caveat:
My ticket was for first balcony, center, last row (that's about 6 rows back). And this is where I sat for the first part of the concert (Rachmaninoff, Chopin).That was a mistake in the acoustically prickly Avery Fisher. I should have known better.
While the articulation of the orchestra and Mr. Ax were clear not blurred, the music sounded as though it was being played on the other side of a pane of glass. Weak and distant. This due, I'm sure, to the large overhang above the first balcony in the rather large hall. The young couple sitting off to the right of me one row forward texting away on their phones didn't help. Despite the repeated glares from other patrons, they continued on unconcerned. Assholes. I just closed my eyes and ignored the whole thing as best I could.
At intermission I asked an usher if I could move down to one of the open seats at orchestra level (the hall was about 3/4 full, so there were plenty of good seats open down there.) She said that was fine, and advised me to just wait for the two-minute bell and snag whatever seat was open at that point. So I did, situating myself dead center about 3/4 the way back. The difference in the acoustics was quite pronounced. I could hear the orchestra in both pianissimo and forte quite clearly and fully; the sound was louder and right there in front of my nose when I closed my eyes (not behind a pane of glass somewhere) and so I obviously enjoyed the two latter pieces much more than the Chopin I had primarily come to hear.
Not really a disappointment, despite missing Chopin in full bloom, as I was pleased to hear the NYPO in distinctly fuller force in the second half of the performance.
Keep in mind I'm used to my local band, which is skilled and really enjoyable. But hearing the seamless, shimmering strings and the power of the NYPO there at Robertson's command anytime he asked for it was really impressive. Likewise, to hear them in delicate pianissimo with full, clear articulation was thrilling.
My advice for Avery Fisher: Get orchestra level seats in the center. The closer to the front the better, I assume. Although rear was great. And the folks down at orchestra level are there for the music, not to text their friends, "OMG I'm at the Linkin Cenner."
Chicago Symphony Orchestra; Richardo Muti, conductor
Mendelssohn - Calm Sea and Prosperous Voyage Overture
Debussy - La Mer
Scriabin - Symphony No. 3 "The Divine Poem"
Now for this performance I originally had seats again in the first balcony, center, which by all accounts are fine, perhaps even the best, at Carnegie. But given my previous night's experience, I upgraded the day of the performance to orchestra level, center, 6 rows from the stage. It was perhaps the greatest musical experience of my life. No shit. The Chicago orchestra with Muti is an incredible force. Forget the famed brass, the strings on all sides were sublime. The hall radiant. The audience quiet and attentive. You still can't wipe the smile off my face today.
The first violinist, or concertmaster, Robert Chen was exuberant, bouncing forward in his chair as he would dig into particularly vigorous passages. And Muti was thrilling to watch, the way he teased out or forcibly willed various sections of the orchestra, turning to face the violins or standing on his toes to direct the oboes or brass.
Absolutely thrilling orchestra.
Quite a different audience at Carnegie as compared to Avery Fisher, as well. Or perhaps that impression was due to my choice of seating. I was up in what felt like the upper deck of a tourist bus as Avery Fisher, while at Carnegie many of the patrons I sat amongst greeted one another as familiar friends. They seemed more hip, more eccentric. And as I said, the audience at Carnegie was more engaged / respectful of the performance than was the balcony brigade at AF, certainly.
Edited 1 Feb 2015 by papsrus
Posted 1 Feb 2015
papsrus, thanks, interesting read. The greatest musical experience of your life, wow!
Time (and money!) well spent, my friend. Thanks for the write up.
I could write you a page or two on where to sit in the London concert halls. The Barbican can be bad; more than half of the Royal Festival Hall is hopeless.
The story is that Simon Rattle has asked for a new concert hall in London to meet modern standards, as a condition for signing up as Principal Conductor for the LSO. I hope we get it.
Yes. Well, I would like to know where to sit in London halls! May be helpful, although no need for a page or two
The trick is to know where the good seats are and, if available, sit in them -- particularly for places like Avery Fisher and, as you say, Barbican or Royal Festival. I would assume that orchestra level, center, mid-way back or closer is a pretty safe bet just about anywhere.
If I lived in New York I would be spoiled by Carnegie and probably not bother with AF much, although the newly refurbished Alice Tully at Lincoln Center (for chamber and smaller performances) is said to be great.
jeffcrom
Location:Atlanta, GA
Sounds like great time.
Indeed. Not quite the pagoda in Pensacola, another favorite venue for other reasons.
Later this afternoon:
Sarasota Orchestra
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall
Part -- Cantus in Memoriam to Benjamin Britten
Beethoven -- Piano Concerto No. 4 (with Steven Hough)
Elgar -- Enigma Variations
And if I have anything left after that, I may go tonight to the Historic Asolo Theatre for a piano-violin performance with Adrian Anantawan (v) and Amy Yang (p).
Brahms -- Violin Sonata, Op. 78, No. 1 in G minor
Ravel -- Sonata for Violin and Piano, No. 2 in G major
Mozart -- Sonata in F major
We'll see which way the wind blows for that one.
Go To Topic Listing Classical Discussion


An easy, paved walk behind the Rainbow Forest Museum that introduces visitors to an excellent grouping of petrified trees, including some of the largest and most colorful in the National Park. A log known as "Old Faithful" measures almost ten feet wide at its base!
For first-time visitors to Petrified Forest National Park coming in from the south entrance, the Giant Logs Trail is a great introduction to what the park has to offer. The Rainbow Forest Museum (hours change seasonally) has fantastic exhibits on the park's geology and human history, both ancient and modern.
And then, right behind the Museum, you can hop onto the Giant Logs Trail for a very quick trail that will take you right to some of the park's choice petrified wood.
This is a very short and very easy trail to follow (although there are some sets of stairs that prevent it from being fully accessible). You'll meander around and between some huge, extremely well-preserved petrified conifers, eventually reaching the nearly-10-foot-wide "Old Faithful" near the top of the hill right behind the museum.
After you're done getting a good lay of the land here, consider walking through the parking area and down to the Long Logs / Agate House Trails to make this more of a full-fledged hike. And the head deeper into the park to explore even more!
Very good. The path is mostly paved and in good condition, although it is not accessible for all mobility devices due to a few sets of stairs.
From Holbrook, head east on US-180 for 18.2 miles and take a left onto Petrified Forest Road. Continue for 2.4 miles and park at the lot for the Rainbow Forest Museum. The trail begins behind the museum.


text:
Mikal Cronin
(San Francisco, USA // Merge Records)
"Playing garage-accented pop that reveals more than a passing influence of indie rock from the 1980s and '90s, Mikal Cronin was raised in Laguna Beach, California, where as a teenager he developed a passion for both surfing and rock & roll. While attending Laguna Beach High School, he fell in with a handful of like-minded music fans and formed a band that played local parties. Cronin left California for a few years to attend Lewis & Clark College in Portland, Oregon, but returned to continue his education at the California Institute of the Arts. While attending CIA, he joined the surf-influenced garage band Charlie & the Moonhearts as bassist; they became simply the Moonhearts after the departure of drummer Charlie Moothart, and in 2010 the band released a self-titled album through Tic Tac Totally Records. Cronin also began collaborating regularly with Ty Segall, releasing a collaborative album, Reverse Shark Attack, in 2009 and playing in Segall's road band.
We had the chance to discover many of his good records since 2010, and the last one was released on the label Famous class .
His first solo album began as therapy after finally completing college and making his way into the real world; full of noisy pop and garage influences, the self-titled LP (featuring guest appearances by Segall, Moothart, and John Dwyer of Thee Oh Sees) was issued by Trouble in Mind Records in September 2011. While still playing with Segall, he released a second solo album, MCII, for Merge in the spring of 2013. He embarked on a solo tour after that, taking time during 2014 to write and record his third album. Adding some new instruments to the fold, including the traditional Greek instrument the tzouras, and making a concerted effort to make his sound "bigger," the album was split into halves, with one side straight-ahead pop songs and the other a thematically linked set of songs meant to tell Cronin's coming of age story. The record, titled MCIII, was released by Merge in the spring of 2015. After touring, Cronin devoted most of his muical time to playing with Ty Segall's live band and appearing on three of his friend's albums, 2016's Emotional Mugger, 2017's Ty Segall, and 2018's Freedom's Goblin. When he turned back to his on music, he spent a month in a cabin located in Idyllwild, California battling writer's block and detialing recent heartbreak. Whne he was chased out of the hills by wildfire, he headed to the studio with Jason Quever of Papercuts to start recording. Backed by Segall's Freedom band and inspired by the Beatles' White Album, Seeker was Cronin's first album that bore no traces of garage rock or power pop, instead delving deeply into classic rock sounds. It was issued by Merge in October of 2019."
In 2019, he is finally back ! On October 25, Mikal Cronin released Seeker on Merge Records, his fourth and finest full-length to date. Recorded live with a crew of close friends and engineer Jason Quever at Palmetto Studios in Los Angeles, it finds Cronin pushing his often devastating power pop into darker territory.
"Fire—specifically its cycle of purging and reseeding the landscape—is a central theme to the record. Death and rebirth," says Mikal. "I was looking for something: answers, direction, peace. I am the seeker."


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A survey conducted by a body of private schools has revealed that the schools have not received school fees from 9 out of 10 students. This is pointed out by a survey of 170 private schools in Delhi 53% of which have shown the backlog in fee collection.
Action Aided Committee of Private Recognized and Unaided Schools reported that 82 out of 170 schools within the fee range of Rs. 1,100 to Rs. 5,500 have only received 5-10% of the fee in the month of April. In May the number of schools receiving a dwindled collection reached 108 out of 170.
This survey concludes that 9 out of 10 parents have defaulted on the schools fee payment in 53% of 170 private schools in Delhi. The nonpayment of the fee has been attributed to the economic slowdown caused by the COVID-19 lockdown. The committee studying the impact consists of 400 unaided private schools. It is reported that by the end of May the percentage of seriously affected schools rose to 64%.
Delhi has 1,175 private schools and if the conclusions of the study are anything to go by, then a significant number of schools are affected. The number of students studying in any given school can range anywhere between 1000-3000.
While it is said that 53% of the schools were severely affected, the remaining 47% also bore the brunt. In 25 % of these remaining schools the fee was paid by only 10 to 25 % of the students and in the remaining schools the fee was paid by 25 to 75% of the students. Notably, there were only 5 schools, a meager 3 % that could secure 75% to 100 % fee collection. The situation is reported to have worsened in the month of May wherein no school is reported to have secured fee payment in the range of 75% to 100 % and 64% of the schools received fee in the range of 5% to 10 %.
The parents cited loss of savings, salary cuts and dwindling business as the reason for non-payment of the fees. The expectation that the government might waive off the fees for the schools as a relief measure was also one of the contributing factors.
It is notable that the state government did direct the private schools in April to limit the fee collection to the tuition head during the period of lockdown. Charging for any other component was deemed punishable under Disaster Management Act.


Du 6 au 12 janvier 2019, 30 startups suisses, dont 13 vaudoises, présenteront leurs produits au Pavilion suisse co-organisé par Présence Suisse et Switzerland Global Enterprise (S-GE), dans le cadre du CES Las Vegas. Pour beaucoup de ces jeunes entreprises, le CES est une occasion unique de promouvoir leurs technologies innovantes sur le marché américain (article en anglais).
The International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2019 is soon going to open its doors in Las Vegas. Gathering almost 180'000 attendees from 150 countries, the fair is a major springboard for ambitious startups, including the ones exhibiting at the SWISS Pavilion in January 2019. Over 1100 startups that used CES as a platform to showcase their products have been funded so far.
The SWISS Pavilion, set up by Presence Switzerland and S-GE with partners including Innovaud, aims to present some of the latest Swiss made technologies to the US market. "The CES Show exists since 1967 but never with an official presence of Switzerland. As a high-class innovation country, having a Swiss pavilion was obvious for Western Switzerland personalities, who asked S-GE and Presence Switzerland to set up a booth". Innovaud joined the partners' list to support the Vaud startups, particularly their preparation for the event with a 2 days Sales Pitch Training with Nexthink co-founder Vincent Bieri.
"For many young Swiss startups such as FOLDAWAY Haptics (EPFL), the CES show is crucial to gain visibility at the international level", says Patrick Barbey, Director of Innovaud. "This is the reason why we joined efforts with S-GE to prepare them for their best pitch to make impact". Together with the pitch training organized in November 2018 with Vincent Bieri (the co-founder of Nexthink, which recently raised 85 million dollars), the startups will benefit from a one-day preparation bootcamp on site to pitch on the SWISS Pavilion' stage to future US investors, customers and partners (on January 8, 2019). "These joint efforts to prepare the startups represent an important value chain in both our organizations' mission to support and promote Swiss startups at the international level", concludes Sylvain Jaccard of S-GE.


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Home » Visa Services - Overview » Japan Work Visa Solutions » The Japan Spouse / Child of a Japanese National Visa
The Japan Spouse / Child of a Japanese National Visa
Japan Visa Services
The Spouse / Child of a Japanese National Visa is for Applicants who fit one of the following categories.
Spouses of Japanese nationals,
Children adopted by Japanese nationals, and
Children of Japanese nationals.
Applicants who qualify under this SOR category are free to undertake any activity of their choosing (including employment) in much the same way as a Japanese national.
In the case of a spouse, they may be able to apply for permanent residence in Japan after three years of marriage. This article provides additional information about Applying for Japan Permanent Residence.
SIX STEPS TO OBTAIN A JAPAN SPOUSE / CHILD OF A JAPANESE NATIONAL VISA
In order to obtain a Spouse / Child of a Japanese National Visa to live in Japan, an Applicant will need to complete the following six steps:
Confirm that the proposed activities in Japan are consistent with those permitted for the holder of a Spouse / Child of a Japanese National Visa.
The permitted activities under a Spouse / Child of a Japanese National Visa are very straightforward as follows:
Children adopted by Japanese nationals, or
Individuals born as the children of Japanese nationals.
Assemble the documents required to support a Spouse / Child of a Japanese National Visa application.
Once an Applicant has confirmed that her proposed activities in Japan are consistent with those outlined above in Step 1, specific supporting documentation needs to be prepared.
In the case of a Spouse / Child of a Japanese National Visa, the authorities require the following:
1. In cases where the Applicant is the spouse of Japanese national:
Documents certifying that the Applicant is the spouse of a Japanese national and a copy of the spouse's residence card.
Documents certifying the profession and income of either the Applicant or the spouse.
A letter of guarantee by a person living in Japan.
In cases where the Applicant is the biological or adopted child of Japanese national:
A copy of the following:
The family registration of the Japanese national,
The birth certificate of the foreign national concerned, and
Other documents certifying the relationship between the parent and the child.
Documents certifying the profession and the income of the foreign national concerned or his or her father or mother.
A letter of guarantee from the Japanese national concerned or another person living in Japan.
Although not technically required, our experience is that providing Japanese translations enhances the quality of the application. This may minimize delays in obtaining final approval.
Japan Visa's certified immigration professionals are able to assist in the preparation and translation of all documentation required for a Spouse / Child of a Japanese National Visa.
Submit an application for a Spouse / Child of a Japanese National Visa Certificate of Eligibility ("COE").
Once the Applicant's activities have been confirmed and the appropriate documents assembled per steps 1 and 2 above, the next step in most cases will be to apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (abbreviated as "COE").
A COE is a document issued by the Japanese immigration authorities. It certifies an Applicant's eligibility to undertake specific activities in Japan – in this case, the activities associated with the Spouse / Child of a Japanese National Visa application.
An application for a Spouse / Child of a Japanese National Visa COE must be submitted in person at a regional immigration office in Japan. The COE application cannot be submitted by mail or at a Japanese embassy outside Japan.
Await Approval of the Spouse / Child of a Japanese National Visa COE.
The processing time for a Spouse / Child of a Japanese National Visa COE is generally four to six weeks.
Once approved, a notice is sent to an address in Japan advising that the COE is ready for collection at the regional immigration office where the COE application was originally submitted.
Obtain Spouse / Child of a Japanese National Status of Residence (SOR).
Once an Applicant has the Spouse / Child of a Japanese National Visa COE in hand, the next step is for her to exchange the COE for Spouse / Child of a Japanese National "Status of Residence" (usually abbreviated as "SOR").
Technically speaking, it is the Spouse / Child of a Japanese National SOR that will form the basis of the Applicant actually living and working in Japan.
There are two methods for doing this:
1. Exchange the Spouse / Child of a Japanese National COE at a Japanese embassy or Consul outside Japan.
This is the traditional route for obtaining Spouse / Child of a Japanese National SOR.
The Applicant first exchanges the Spouse / Child of a Japanese National Visa COE for a Spouse / Child of a Japanese National Visa at a Japanese embassy or consul outside Japan. The process generally takes two to three business days.
The Applicant then travels to Japan and is granted Spouse / Child of a Japanese National SOR at the port of entry.
2. Undertake a Change of Status to Spouse / Child of a Japanese National SOR in Japan.
In some cases, an alternative may be for the holder of a Spouse / Child of a Japanese National COE to enter Japan under the Japan Visa Waiver Program or some other form of short-term entry. The Applicant then applies for Spouse / Child of a Japanese National SOR via a change of status at a regional immigration office in Japan.
A change of status takes approximately two weeks. During that time, it is not possible for the Applicant to travel outside Japan.
Where the change of status route is utilized, Japan Visa's certified immigration professionals can undertake the necessary procedures at the regional immigration office in Japan.
Japan Residence Card
Whether you receive your Spouse / Child of a Japanese National SOR at the airport upon entering Japan or via a change of status application filed at a regional immigration office in Japan (see Step 5 above), you will receive a Residence Card.
This is an official identification card that includes an IC chip. The Residence Card contains personal information such as name, address, birth date, residence status (in this case, Spouse / Child of a Japanese National SOR), period of stay, etc.
You are required to carry your Residence Card at all times.
Consider applying for a Japan Re-entry Permit.
Up until July 2012, if you held a Spouse / Child of a Japanese National Visa and wished to temporarily leave Japan (e.g., for vacation, business, etc.) it was necessary to obtain a Re-entry Permit for Japan in advance of travelling.
However, it is now possible to leave Japan for up to 12 months without a Re-Entry Permit.
If there is any possibility that a trip outside Japan will last for more than 12 months, an individual holding Spouse / Child of a Japanese National SOR should ensure that they have a Re-entry Permit. This can be obtained at regional immigration office in Japan.
Some Important Considerations AFTER Receiving your Spouse / Child of a Japanese National Visa
There are three particularly important tax matters to bear in mind as you live and work in Japan:
1. Japanese Tax for holders of Spouse / Child of a Japanese National SOR
If they are employed, people living in Japan under Spouse / Child of a Japanese National SOR will typically be working for an institution that handles most Japan tax matters on their behalf. This is done by way of withholding tax deducted each month and a year-end adjustment as part of the December payroll.
However, if you have multiple jobs or if you have other sources of income you may need to submit a Japanese tax return by 15 March each year. It is very important that you understand your Japan tax obligations since no extensions are available.
Complying with your Japanese tax obligations is essential in order to renew your visa.
2. US Tax for holders of Spouse / Child of a Japanese National SOR
If the holder of Spouse / Child of a Japanese National SOR is a US citizen or green card holder, they will continue to have US tax obligations even while living in Japan.
The US rules applicable to Americans living overseas are complex and constantly changing. In order to avoid possible penalties, anyone with a US tax filing obligation should seek specialist advice to ensure that they fulfill their US tax obligations.
3. Taxes when the holder of Spouse / Child of a Japanese National SOR leaves Japan
Before leaving Japan, the holder of Spouse / Child of a Japanese National SOR is required to fully settle her taxes or appoint a tax agent.
Japan Visa Types
Investor / Business Manager
Legal / Accounting Services
Specialist in Humanities / International Services
Intra-Company Transferee
Artist Visa
Dependents Visa (for family members)
General Visas
Designated Activities
Specified Visas
Long Term Resident
Spouse of a Japanese National
Spouse of a Japanese Permanent Resident


the extent or account of space between two things, points, lines, etc.
distance Related word families intertwined with 'to place, placing, to put; to add; to stay; to attach' word units: fix-; pon-; prosth-; the-, thes-.
Each boxing match has a pre-determined length or number of rounds. When it doesn?t end by way of knockout, disqualification, or any scenario that stops the fight short of those rounds, the fight ?goes the distance.?
How far a swimmer swims.
The length of a race: 5 furlongs is the minimum and the 4 1/2 miles of the Grand National the longest. Also, the margin by which a horse wins or is beaten by the horse in front; this ranges from a short head to 'by a distance' (more than 30 lengths); a 'length' is measured from the horse's nose to the start of its tail.


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Home > Content > 2021 > 02/19 > Jets vs Canucks 02/19/21 – Odds and NHL Betting Trends
Photo Credit: James Carey Lauder-USA TODAY Sports
Jets vs Canucks 02/19/21 – Odds and NHL Betting Trends
February 19, 2021, 9:35 AM | baggedmilk
by OddsShark (@OddsShark) – Sponsored Post
The Winnipeg Jets' head-to-head trend against the Vancouver Canucks and their seeming ability to cover up for their defensive deficiencies suggest they can avoid starting a losing streak. The visiting Jets are at -105 and the host Canucks sit at -115 with a 6.0-goal total on the NHL odds for Friday at sportsbooks monitored by OddsShark.com.
Since the start of the 2015-16 season, the Jets are 13-2 against the Canucks with the total finishing UNDER in 10 of the 15 matchups at sports betting sites. Winnipeg is also 7-4 in its last 11 away matchups against Canadian teams, with the total finishing UNDER seven times. Vancouver is 6-5 in its last 11 home games against Canadian teams, with a 5-5-1 split on the OVER/UNDER.
Jets vs Canucks | OddsShark Matchup Report
The Jets are 9-6-1 after a 3-2 defeat at Edmonton on Wednesday, but have not gone two games in a row without earning a point this season. Their forward corps, led by Mark Scheifele, Nikolaj Ehlers and Kyle Connor, will be trying to pivot from a defeat where they earned edges in scoring chances (23-14) and high-danger chances (5-2) in the five-on-five phase to a matchup against Vancouver, which allows high-danger chances at the worst rate in the NHL. (All advanced stats are from five-on-five play only.)
Winnipeg ranks 20th in the 31-team NHL in their share of shots for (48.8 percent), as well as 29th in expected goals-for percentage (45.0) and 30th in share of high-danger chances (42.4), according to Natural Stat Trick. The Jets are seventh in goal scoring (3.44 per game) and 15th in goals against (2.81), while boasting the 13th-ranked power play (23.1 percent) and 14th-ranked penalty killing unit (80.0).
Connor Hellebuyck, who has a 7-5-1 record with a 2.61 goals-against average and .916 save percentage, is the Jets' likely starting goaltender. Hellebuyck is 7-2-0 with a 1.56 GAA and .949 save percentage in nine career games against Vancouver.
The Canucks are 8-11-1, and are coming off of a 5-1 victory against the Calgary Flames on Wednesday where their first two lines scored all five goals, even though the entire team's expected goals-for percentage was 48.7. The Canucks' Elias Pettersson-J.T. Miller-Brock Boeser trio is one of the most proficient lines in the NHL, but they likely face a tough matchup against Winnipeg's Paul Stastny-Connor-Ehlers unit. Bo Horvat's line with wingers Tanner Pearson and Nils Hoglander is also coming off back-to-back strong efforts in Vancouver's last two outings.
Vancouver ranks 21st in the NHL in share of shots for (48.7 percent), as well as 26th in both expected goals-for percentage (47.4) and share of high-danger chances (46.3). The Canucks are 15th in goal scoring (3.05 per game) and 30th in goals against (3.60), while boasting the 20th-ranked power play (17.1 percent) and 11th-ranked penalty killing unit (82.3).
Thatcher Demko, who is 4-6-1 with a 3.52 GAA and .895 save percentage, backed the Canucks to a 4-1 road win in Winnipeg in the teams' last matchup on Jan. 30. He is also rested. Braden Holtby also stopped 35-of-36 shots in Vancouver's last outing, improving his season statline to a 4-5-0 record with a 3.44 GAA and .896 save percentage.
The teams have a rematch on Sunday. The Jets' next series is a two-game home set against the Montreal Canadiens on Feb. 25 and 27.
Check out OddsShark on Twitter and Instagram or head to YouTube for analysis on this week's top games. As well, the OddsShark Computer serves up daily NHL picks for bettors.
By baggedmilk
@jsbmbaggedmilk More Articles


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Carper gives statement at EPW Clean Air, Nuclear Safety Subcommittee Hearing
Submitted News
Sen. Tom Carper gave the opening statement at the March 5 U.S. Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works Subcommittee on Clean Air and Nuclear Safety hearing "States' Role in Protecting Air Quality: Principles of Cooperative Federalism."
"Thank you, Mr. Chairman, for convening this hearing and continuing the conversation we began during our hearing on this very topic in April 2018, less than a year ago. The subject is particularly timely now, given recent actions by the Trump administration," said Carper.
"The Clean Air Act requires EPA to partner with states to address air pollution, especially air pollution that crosses state borders. The act ensures all states are good neighbors when it comes to clean air. These protections are critical for my home state of Delaware because our state is located at the end of what I call 'America's tailpipe.' This means that other states' dirty emissions from cars and power plants drift east into our state and other downwind states. This cross-state air pollution makes it impossible for Delaware to meet national health air pollution standards without the cooperation of upwind states and the EPA," said Carper.
"However, instead of working with states on solutions to our clean air problems, Administrator Wheeler's EPA has actually made it more difficult for states, especially downwind states, to meet clean air goals. For example, Wheeler's EPA has rejected 126 Clean Air Act petitions filed by three states — Delaware, Maryland and Connecticut — that ask EPA to require upwind power plants to install or consistently operate already installed pollution controls," said Carper.
"Furthermore, Administrator Wheeler's EPA is cutting state air program funding, weakening enforcement and rolling back critical clean air protections that will exacerbate the ongoing air pollution confronting our states. Here are just three examples of such rollbacks," said Carper.
"First, Administrator Wheeler told members of this committee in January that, quote, 'no one wants a 50-state deal more than I do,' when asked about negotiating a 'win-win' compromise on vehicle fuel economy and greenhouse gas standards with California. But, two weeks ago, EPA walked away from even the pretense of negotiations, despite being asked by every single automaker, utilities, auto parts suppliers and others to strike a deal," said Carper.
"Second, last September, Administrator Wheeler signed a proposal at the behest of the oil and gas industry to repeal basic rules requiring them to control leaking methane gas. Administrator Wheeler's own proposal states the rollback would increase leaking methane by 380,000 short tons, increase leaking volatile organic compounds by 100,000 tons, and also result in 3,800 tons of leaking hazardous air pollution. The proposal says EPA 'expects [the proposal] may degrade air quality and adversely affect health and welfare,' but EPA has declined to quantify the negative health effects or determine how many people will be affected. EPA has also declined to determine how this proposal will affect states' ability to meet air quality standards. So EPA is admitting its methane rollbacks will increase air pollution but leaves states in the dark on how this additional pollution will harm their constituents and whether it will push them into nonattainment or not," said Carper.
"Third, in the 11th hour before the government shutdown in December 2018, Administrator Wheeler signed a proposal that guts the legal foundation of the Mercury and Air Toxics Standards — also known as the MATS rule. Using outdated data, EPA decided that some benefits, like reductions in cancer, birth defects and asthma attacks, are no longer important for the agency to count, and proposed action that puts the MATS rule in legal jeopardy. Undermining the MATS rule could result in installed mercury and air toxic control technology to be turned off, putting downwind states at particular risk. Every stakeholder — from the coal-fired utilities who comply with the rules, to religious leaders, to health experts, to environmental organizations, to the chamber of commerce — have urged this administration not to take this step. Administrator Wheeler has so far ignored these pleas to keep the MATS rule in place and effective," said Carper.
"These are just three examples of EPA's rollbacks of clean air regulations that will likely result in increased air pollution across this country. There are many more that I've not mentioned today. It's clear that these rollbacks harm our air quality and public health, yet EPA refuses to model any of those negative effects," said Carper.
"So we have a situation in which Administrator Wheeler's EPA is denying downwind states' efforts to hold upwind states accountable for their own air pollution and expanding air pollution that crosses state borders while taking away critical financial tools and programs that helps states address pollution," said Carper.
"Cooperative federalism means cooperation between the federal government and the states to solve problems. As we will hear today, many states are not receiving much cooperation from this administration. Instead, states are finding themselves without a federal partner in addressing these serious problems," said Carper.
"We may have changed administrators but, clearly, we have not eliminated the problems with this administration," said Carper.
"I look forward to today's hearing," said Carper.


This week we talk with another Southern Arizona environmental nonprofit, the Watershed Management Group, which is led under the direction of Lisa Shipek as Executive Director. This is a jam packed episode because Watershed Management Group is doing A LOT of incredible work in the community! Their primary mission is connecting people to their natural environment through education and volunteer based projects. Their goal is to create abundance in the community, an abundance in natural resources, an abundance of water for human and environmental needs, and an abundance in our lives so we can cherish the incredible landscape we live in. Watershed Management Group has regular classes about rainwater harvesting, greywater systems, community gardens, and a myriad of other topics to teach people the best practices for living well and sustainably in the Sonoran Desert. They reach out to the wider community through social events like mesquite pancake breakfasts and local beer crawls in order to spread awareness about water and partners with many diverse partners including government, nonprofits, and businesses. What this means is that every staff member is effectively an educator about water. This philosophy comes from the background of how Watershed Management Group started, which was at the University of Arizona, when a group of graduate students came together to dream of something bigger.
Since 2006, Lisa Shipek has served as the Executive Director of Watershed Management Group. Lisa has expertise in developing training programs for professionals; developing environmental education programs for adults and children; and collaborating with a diverse range of partners to implement community-based environmental projects. Lisa directs fundraising, strategic development and outreach activities for WMG. She manages several of WMG's programs including the unique Tucson Conserve to Enhance program, which links individual water conservation savings with local river restoration, and WMG's Water Harvesting Certification program that trains professionals from throughout the United States and abroad. She holds a B.S. in Environmental Science and an M.A. in Latin American Studies. Through her work with WMG, she is particularly interested in developing environmental programs that improve quality of life in urban areas. Lisa believes low-tech, community-based solutions can solve today's most pressing environmental challenges and we get a sense of that in this episode of Fathoming Water.


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Home Industry Pharmacist inclusion on the MBS within reach
Pharmacist inclusion on the MBS within reach
AP Staff
Addressing the nation's healthcare needs means increasing the role of pharmacists by granting them access to the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS), said PSA.
In its submissions to the taskforce reference groups, PSA focused on inclusion of pharmacist services on the MBS to ensure pharmacists are no longer excluded from the rest of the allied healthcare workforce in the delivery of consultation based services upon referral from a general practitioner.
'PSA has advocated over many years to develop funding models to reflect pharmacists' extensive expertise and contribution to Australia's health. Pharmacists have been calling for access to the MBS to reflect their skills, training and experience for longer than many of us can remember,' said PSA National President Dr Chris Freeman.
PSA's recent recommendations stem from its two key reports, Medicine Safety: Take Care and Pharmacists in 2023. Both advocate for empowering pharmacists to do more than the current healthcare system allows by harnessing their skills and expertise as medicine experts. It is PSA's firm view that pharmacists must be involved in the care of patients whenever medicines are part of their health management plan, and particularly in the context of chronic disease management.
Dr Freeman said that although the Allied Health Reference Group recommended pharmacists be granted access to MBS items in February following previous PSA submissions, there is still more work to be done. These recommendations must make their way to the Minister for Health's office and once and for all cease the exclusion of pharmacist access to the MBS.
'While this recommendation now exists, it is focused on long-term implementation. Given the rate of medicine-related harm being experienced by Australians and the potential for pharmacists to contribute to medicine safety and quality use of medicines, it is critical that the implementation of this recommendation is not delayed,' he said.
Patients with complex care requirements
The inclusion of pharmacists in allied healthcare teams is particularly important for vulnerable population groups – including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
In writing to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Reference Group, PSA noted the current issues relating to medication adherence. Pharmacists can make a significant contribution to support adherence through the provision of medicine information, assessing each person's needs and tailoring solutions accordingly.
Pharmacists also have a key role to play in mental health care teams. PSA have committed to supporting recommendations from the Mental Health Reference Group to encourage coordinated support for patients with chronic and mental illnesses and access to mental health services in residential aged care.
Pharmacists should have a role in delivering care as part of a mental health care plan, said PSA, especially where medicines form part of the patient's treatment plan. This is particularly relevant for mental health care services in residential aged care.
'We look forward to continuing to work with the groups involved in the MBS Review as they undertake their consultation on these recommendations, and then working with the Minister for Health to make these recommendations a reality,' Dr Freeman said.
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