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Astro Reviews	admin	2018-01-03T15:00:43+00:00
A review of five most productive books for self-taught Jyotish learners.
For serious beginners of astrology, here's a list of 5 must read titles. They are selected on the ground of authenticity, coherence and simplicity. Despite, they are not infallible. The numbering does not show order of excellence, instead they indicate stages of learning.
Light on Life by Hart De Fouw and Robert Svoboda
Elements of Vedic Astrology by Dr. K.S. Charak
How to Judge a Horoscope by B.V. Raman
Art & Practice of Ancient Hindu Astrology by James Braha
Astrology, Destiny and Wheel of Time by K.N. Rao
I do not claim that these books are perfect or bona fide writings. Nonetheless, this selection can fairly provide a concrete Jyotish foundation for a beginner. The first title "Light on Life" is a holistic introduction, the second title describes fundamental elements of astrology, while third, fourth and fifth titles teach horoscopic analysis for delineation and forecasting. This selection can also serve a course outline for self-taught Jyotish beginners.
1- Light on Life by Hart de Fouw and Robert Svoboda
This is an authentic, coherent and probably the most literate introduction of Jyotish for a serious learner. This is a not a book for an infatuated or hasty beginner. It does not rely upon effects of planets in signs and houses (which is indeed a very bad way to start astrology). Neither it unveils secret predictive formulas, nor highlights rare principles. It is all about fundamentals, and yet it is the best introductory book.
Before starting anything about astrology, it tells you what is Jyotish, what is Vidya, what is Karma, and what are Jyotish's limbs. Carefully peruse introductory two chapters because each and every sentence conveys something meaningful there. A concrete philosophical background and esoteric perspective is as necessary as plowing a land before seeding. And authors (Hart de Fouw and Robert Svoboda) have successfully done this job. After a brief account of astronomy and horoscope formats, the real part of book begins. It is spanning over Chapter Four, Five and Six. These chapters cover the characteristics of Grahas, Rashis and Bhavas in such a nice and comprehensive way, you do not find anywhere else. A critical mind may object: almost every astrology book describes classification of planets or signs as male, female; as shubha, ashubha; as moola, dhatu, jeeva; as brahmin, kshatriya, vaishya, shudra etc. Moreover, there are classifications of body parts, colour, cabinet, directions, diseases, elements, gems, places and profession too in every second book. So what is special in "Light on Life"? The difference is in authenticity, style and explanation. First of all, the book hardly differs from traditional teachings in defining characteristics of Grahas, Rashis and Bhavas. Secondly it elucidates the purpose and application of every trait in very literate way. Finally, wherever and whenever needed, authors separately provide their own views and parallel list of characteristics according to present time and culture. And in doing so, they did not fill the content with vague terminologies, fallacious logic or messy footnotes. This intellectual honestly and refine style is indeed very rare.
Another important topic is Nakshatra that is dealt in chapter eight. This part of book initially maintains origin of Nakshatra and its relevance with Indian calendars. This is followed by classification, viz.; activity, gender, guna, tattva etc. Finally, general effects, symbols, esoteric meanings, physiology and professions of 27 Nakshatras are mentioned. This chapter usually attracts Western students and practitioners of astrology (because there is no concept of Nakshatra in modern Western astrology). The authors simply avoid interpreting lunar mansions on the basis of signs where they lie, or under the cover of lords according to Vimshottari Dasha scheme. This is a pitfall where most of the modern authors and new converts fall. Instead, explanations of Nakshatras in "Light on Life" rest upon deities, symbols, legends and general effects mentioned in classical Jyotish texts.
Chapter Nine encompasses interpretation of the horoscope. With uncountable number of criteria and apparently contradictory principles in Jyotish, a beginner naturally turn puzzled how to delineate a birth chart. "Light on Life" smartly tackles with this complexity. Authors pick just two verses of Phaladeepika, synthesize them, and extract 18 basic principles for house analysis. The manner of explanation is just like a real Guru – simple, comprehensible, yet in-depth. The fundamental approach and principles given in this chapter do not differ from standard practice of Jyotish. Despite, authors honestly admit that these are not the only interpretive principles available, nor are they necessarily best, since every astrologer has his own style of treating a horoscope that develop over decades of experience.
This introductory book also deals with Graha Yogas. On various occasions, it teaches how to understand and translate yoga for different lagnas and with different strength. While it also removes some of widespread misunderstandings, for instance, Mahapurush Yoga is usually evident from the façade of native and in horoscope it is mainly dependent upon strength of its dispositor; Jupiter in kendra to Moon forms Kesari Yoga. There is also a very good interpretation of Neecha Bhanga Raja Yoga. According to authors 'a debility is debility', and Neecha Bhanga is no more perfect than is prosthesis applied to a limbless body. And finally there is a good note on Kala Sarpa Yoga and a brief caution to consider Raja Bhanga Yoga.
Forecasting techniques (Vimshottari Dasha and Gochar) are dealt in chapter Eleven. Account of Dasha is brief without emphasize on computational aspect and individual effect of Mahadasa and Antardasas. Similarly planetary transits are succinctly treated for beginners' understanding.
After creating major building blocks of Jyotish (Graha, Rashi, Bhava, Nakshatra, Yoga, Dasha, Gochar etc.), the final chapter is dedicated to 'Example Charts'. Logical delineations of 8 nativities almost cover 80 pages. All analytical reasoning are to-the-point and comprehensible.
"Light on Life" uses few uncommon terminologies. Throughout the book, the term "constellation" is used for all sidereal zodiacal sign (Rashi); to wit, Aries constellation, Taurus constellation and so on. Authors also stated the reason of this unusual practice in Chapter Five. Moreover, on page 120, the 3rd house is categorized as one of the Duh'sthanas. In fact, "Leena Bhavas" is correct term for the group of 3rd, 6th, 8th and 12th houses. Duh'sthana is generally referred to 6th, 8th and 12th houses.
As a whole, language of the book appears formal and slightly difficult if you are not well-versed in English. Writing style of DeFouw and Svoboda is quite literate rather erudite. It demands heedfulness and dedication. You will not find choppy sentences, needless exaggeration, unnecessary tables, or over simplistic style of 'Dummies' and 'Idiots'. After all, Jyotish is not fun, summer-vacation hobby, or past time leisure. It is a Vidya.
In sum, "Light on Life" presents an authentic, well-constructed, and concrete foundation of Jyotish. It is the best introductory book, but only for serious and dedicated students of astrology. Highly recommended!
2- Elements of Vedic Astrology by Dr. K.S. Charak
Plain, lucid and authentic, this is a beautiful account of Parashari techniques for a Jyotish beginner. Two volumes, spanning over 450 pages, mainly address essential astronomy, casting of horoscope, divisional charts, effects of planets in signs and houses, yogas and basic forecasting techniques including dasa, gochar and varshphala. It basically maintains the alphabets of Jyotish, somewhat in disintegrated fashion. So do not anticipate 'art of interpretation' or 'horoscopic judgment' from this book. First digest the fundamentals then go for judgment.
"Elements of Vedic Astrology" is more like a textbook. In fact, author Dr. Charak admits in Preface that this work is the result of his association with Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan (India's largest astrology school). Furthermore, it solely focuses what is broadly known as Parashari principles, and does not transgress into the other parallel system (Jaimini, Bhrigu etc.).
The book begins with a brief and simple introduction to Jyotish, its relation with Vedas, types of astrology, and qualification of a good astrologer. Chapter two and three illustrate the elementary concepts of astronomy. There are only few introductory books that provide a simple introduction of astronomy relevant to astrology, since astronomical concepts are difficult to comprehend especially at initial stage. Author dedicates around 50 pages to the astrological astronomy. Although, computer software can produce all astrological calculations within a second, but a serious learner should understand their theoretical background.
A compact survey of significations of Signs, Houses and Planets are given in chapter Five and Seven. If you have thoroughly digested chapter Four, Five and Six of "Light on Life" then these chapters of "Elements of Vedic Astrology" may appear a repetitive summary with few exceptions on medical issue. Chapter Six: 'Nature of Planets' covers a very important subject of functional beneficence and maleficence of planets. It is basically an explanation of Laghu Parashari's principles, and indeed very near to the true spirit. Albeit, author cautions the readers that concept of functional beneficence and maleficence of planets is a complementary part of Vimshottari Dasha, and functional role of planets realize in their respective dasha only. But, he put this chapter along with basic significations of planets. Following the Parashar's way, functional benefic, functional malefic, Yoga Karaka and Maraka should explain before or with interpretation of Vimshottari Dasha.
How to cast a horoscope, cusp of house, and longitude of planets are nicely dealt with practical illustrations in chapter Eight and Nine. Subsequent chapter appears logical and discusses drawing of shodasvargas (16 divisional) charts as per BPHS. Author also provides a rare view of Manasagari that spouse should see from Dwadasamsa (D12), and siblings from Saptamsa (D7). Sub Planets (Aprakasha Grahas), Planetary States (Graha Avasthas) and Strength of Planets (Graha Bala) are plainly discussed.
Around 60 pages of first volume are dedicated to Vimshottari dasa but mainly to computational tables, and effect of mahadasas and antardasas. Unfortunately, the concept of functional nature (temporal beneficence and maleficence) based on lordship is missing in this chapter (because it is described earlier in chapter Six). A beginner should parallel read chapter Six while reading section on Vimshottari dasa. The probable outcome of mahadasas and antardasas are chiefly culled from authentic Jyotish classics, but from a beginner's perspective, favourable and unfavourable impacts are separately given.
Volume 2 of "Elements of Vedic Astrology" highlights effects of planets, yogas, and few forecasting techniques primarily Varshphala (annual horoscopy) and gochar (transit). It also provides basic understandings of some useful subjects, like medical astrology, Mahurtha, Prashna, Ashtakavarga and Sudarshan Chakra. Around 100 initial pages (of volume 2) are devoted to effect of house lords, and result of planets in signs and houses. At first glance they look too direct and too fatalistic. But they are again taken verbatim from classical Jyotish discourses and their originality is being retained. In fact, Parashar, Varahamihira and Kalyan Verma speak in these pages. At one hand, rot memorizing the effects of house lords and planets may appear counter-productive for a rational mind. But at the same time, it is useful if a secondary level beginner memorizes these effects of house lords and planets in different houses and signs (obviously after understanding their characteristics). With practical experience, it would help a newbie to modify and modernize these effects, because many outcomes of house lords and planets, given by Parashar and Varahamihira, cannot deduce logically. For instance, on the basis of Parashar's teachings, "Elements of Vedic Astrology" says: 11th lord in 12th house gives friendship or association with maleechha (i.e. with alien community, foreigners or outcasts). It is quite easy to conclude this outcome with the help of significations of 11th and 12th houses. But it is difficult to decipher: 1st lord in 8th house makes on scholarly; or 1st lord in 5th house harms children. Yet classical 'result' works in many cases.
Treatment of Planetary combinations (yogas) is plain and very systematic. Yogas are categorized into Nabhas yogas, Lunar yogas, Solar yogas, Raja yogas, Dhana yogas, Parivartana, Aristha etc. This part of book possesses a good amount of examples and illustrations comparing earlier chapters. Medical astrology – specialized area of author – is simple and solid with 4 example charts. Whereas, treatment of Varshphala, Prashna, Mahurtha, Gochar and Sudarshan Chakra, is quite brief but according to traditional teachings of Jyotish.
By and large, stuff in "Elements of Vedic Astrology" reflects its title. One should never forget that it is principally a book on essential elements of Jyotish. It neither claims, nor teaches how to use these elements, let alone how to synthesize contradictory matters. Moreover, it is slightly incoherent at some places, while some elements seem isolated and disintegrated on account of lacking examples. Despite these drawbacks, I have picked this book as 2nd best read for beginners, firstly for its authenticity and secondly for its simplicity. In simplicity and coherence, it is quite better than "Hindu Predictive Astrology" (by B.V. Raman), "Fundamentals of Astrology" (by M.R. Bhat), and "Learn Astrology: the Easy Way" (by G.S. Kapoor). While in authenticity, it is far better than "A Guide to the Fundamentals of Jyotish" (by Ronnie Gale Dreyer) and "Astrology of Seers" (by David Frawley). In short, Dr. Charak's Elements of Vedic Astrology duly deserve a reliable read for beginners.
3- How to Judge a Horoscope by B.V. Raman
This is simply a modern classic. Before Dr. Raman, no astrologer endeavored to write on this issue and with such an organized manner. After comprehending fundamentals of Jyotish elements, this is an ideal book for acquainting how to apply these elements. This outstanding title is all about application of astrological principles. Raman's explanations on hundreds of real life horoscopes enable a reader how to analyze contradictory criteria and how to synthesize probable outcome.
"How to Judge a Horoscope" deals with all major areas of life, and mainly rest upon three fundamental tools of analysis, that is, House, Lord and Karaka. For predictive purpose, Vimshottari Dasa and Gochar are generally relied upon. Volume One covers issues signified by 1st House to 6th House, and the Volume Two deals with affairs signified by 7th House to 12th House. In total, more than 400 horoscopes are discussed in both volumes.
This is a very coherent and structured book. Therefore one can equally benefit from it either through random browsing or sequential reading. Before discussing House-based affairs of life, author provides fair amount of introductory matters in first three chapters of Volume One. Chapter-1 deals with 'General Introduction', Chapter-2 focuses 'Consideration in Judging a House' and Chapter-3 highlights 'Determination of Longevity'. Rest of chapters orderly deals with house-based affairs from First House to Twelfth House.
Every chapter maintains some unique sections. They are:
Result of House Lords being situated in different Houses
Important Combinations
Time of Fructification of the Results
The Nature of the Results
Most of other books on same issue generally lack in-depth treatment of said issues, especially the results of house lords in different houses, and important combination (classical yogas) concerning that house. Notice that B.V. Raman has not preferred 'Planets in Signs' and 'Planets in Houses' as first or second judgment criterion. Instead effects of 'Planets in Houses' are mentioned after 'Results of House Lords' and 'Important Combinations'. This is a pregnant clue for new students who usually overlook significance of 'House Lords in different Houses' and relevant 'Yogas' in horoscopic judgment.
Furthermore, author beautifully modernized the ancient teachings of house lord effect in different houses without spoiling the spirit of Sage Parashar. Hence a modern reader does not find this section like typical 'cookbook' content. On the other hand, the section of 'Important Combination' is a collection of thousands of handy yogas, mainly culled from classical Jyotish books. Raman included them not because they are taught by revered sages or ancient authorities, but on account of one important reason, that is, they work. These yogas really work when apply judiciously.
The section of 'Planets in Houses', in every chapter, is also logically presented. The benefic and malefic outcome is according to the teachings of ancient authorities. B.V. Raman modernized the results for readers, and also stated other necessary conditions that strengthen or weaken the effect of planet's occupation in a house. While doing so, he does not deviate from the gist of Jyotish. 'Time of Fructification of the Results' and 'The Nature of the Results' are two other sections in every chapter that actually refer to the probable outcome of Dasha and Bhukti of planets related to House, Lord and Karaka. This section also encompasses important combinations involving Navamsa position.
B.V. Raman does not appear endorsing KP approach of Nakshatra lord usage, at least in Volume One. Instead he hints at practical application of Nakshatra Tara. In chapter on First House, he maintains that placement of lagna lord in Vipat, Pratyak or Naidhan tara from Janma Nakshatra intensifies the evil effects pertaining to first house, especially when lagna lord is in bad house or afflicted. There will be lessening of favourable indications, even if lagna lord is strong but occupies in mentioned evil tara.
Although, "How to Judge a Horoscope" focuses trio of House, Lord and Karaka in Rasi and Navamsa, but on some occasions Raman introduces Special Lagna, Sphuta, and Saham. For instance, author presents calculation and application of Beeja Sphuta and Kshetra Sphuta for happiness from progeny; Drekkana of Janma lagna for financial fortune; Dhana lagna for extent of wealth; 22nd Drekkana for cause of disease and death; and Pradesa Saham for long-distance travels. Nonetheless, these Special Lagnas, Sphuta, and Saham should consider subsidiary tools for refining main delineation and forecast. Dr. Raman also presents a little known application of Rithu (seasons) associated with planets. According to him, a disease may appear in the season of planets that are strongly related to dusthana, lagna lord or lagna.
As a whole, affairs of life signified by 1st house, 4th house, 7th house and 10th house are treated in detail. Since these Kenrdra houses rule major areas of life; for example, native, personality, education, home, vehicle, husband, wife, business, profession and authority. Similarly, matter of longevity (Aayush) is exhaustively dealt with the aid of many real life examples in 'Eighth House' chapter.
If one compares both volumes then Volume Two appears thicker than Volume One. First volume consists of 304 pages whereas second volume consists of 475 pages. This is on account of chapters on Marriage (7th house), Longevity (8th house), and Profession (10th house) falling in second volume. Interestingly there is an uncommon gap of nearly 40 years between publication of Volume One and Two of 'How to Judge a Horoscope'. In fact, name of Gayatri Devi Vasudev is given as co-author in second volume. In Preface of Volume Two, B.V. Raman thanked his daughter Gayatri Devi Vasudev for assisting him.
Although, this is a unique title in many way but it also holds some shortcomings. Firstly, all horoscopes in this book are calculated with Raman Ayanamsa (which is slightly ahead of commonly applied Chitrapaksha Lahiri Ayanamsa). Reproduction of these charts with Lahiri Ayanamsa may change Navamsa lagna, and Rashi position of some planets, that are falling at initial or concluding degrees. There is no way to justify this contradiction. B.V. Raman always followed his own calculated Ayanamsa. Another shortcoming of the book is absence of parallel North Indian style chart format. This confuses beginners who are accustomed to North Indian style charts, and feel uneasy with South Indian style chart format. Lastly, in some case studies, calendar date of event is not given. Instead author mentions Dasa-Bhukti of particular event. With different Ayanamsa, it is hard to produce reconciliation between author's given Dasha-Bhukti and Lahiri-based Dasha-Bhukti. Otherwise more than 400 charts would have become a great asset for researchers.
Despite said above shortcomings, "How to Judge a Horoscope" has ascendancy over other available counterparts. For its authentic content, coherent style and systematic approach, this is a must read for every Jyotish beginners. "How to Judge a Horoscope" is far ahead of "Astro Sutras" of J.N. Bhasin, "Analysing Horoscope through Modern Techniques" of M.S. Mehta, and "Scientific Analysis of Horoscope" of L.R. Chawdhri.
One may label this book Bible of applied astrology, since it is all about application of reliable tools and techniques of Jyotish. No other astrology book presents 400 real life case studies (mostly non-notable nativities). Whether you are novice or seasoned, "How to Judge a Horoscope" is such an invaluable title that it should remain on your study table, and under your pillow.
4- Art and Practice of Ancient Hindu Astrology by James Braha
There is an old saying, "a good conversation is worth a month's study of books". So if you do not find any master of astrology for conversation then read this outstanding work of James Braha.
This is probably the first modern astrology book in the form of dialogue. James Braha and his student friend Martin Timmon discussed Jyotish for about four months. "The Art and Practice of Ancient Hindu Astrology" is the outcome of that conversation. This book can serve you best if you have already gone through "Light on Life", "Elements of Vedic Astrology" and "How to Judge a Horoscope", because author assume you familiar with fundamentals. This is basically a book on art of reading, analyzing, weighing, prioritizing and synthesizing the confusing and contradictory elements of Jyotish. Around 430 big-seized pages share ifs and buts of horoscopic judgment in the light of James Braha's 20 years practical experience. In Introduction author says, "One of my strongest intents within this project is to try and clarify, and in some case disapprove, astrological techniques that are traditionally accepted and promoted, but which function inconsistently at best, and at worst not at all."
Another admiring aspect of this book is the intellectual honesty of author. Nowhere, he emphasizes to believe him blindly, or accentuates to take his words as gospel. On many occasions, he clearly says, "this is what I've always observed correct, this is what I've noticed sometime, this is what I did not find true, this is a judgment call, this method better works in horoscopes of Indian society but not in Western culture, or I can't tell you exactly". James Braha does not make his student (and readers) fool by saying "you should consider all elements, you should take care all factors, an in-depth research is unavoidable, or an analytical judgment is necessary". He is very clear and straight, what works in practice and what does not.
In initial chapters, James Braha clarifies many confusing elements of Jyotish. He shares his reasoning why classical Jyotish texts appear so cryptic, exaggerated and over-the-top. Furthermore, there is a very important point about relative significance of natural and functional benefic or malefic planets. Author stresses a natural malefic planet does not lose its all maleficence by simultaneously becoming functional benefic. Similarly, a natural benefic does not suddenly and permanently turn into evil by just owning evil houses. For instance, Saturn does not give up its all evil significations by just owning 9th and 10th houses for Taurus lagna. Or Mars does not stop acting 'Mars-like' for Cancer lagna, merely because it rules 5th and 10th houses. In reality, both natural and functional characteristics of a planet manifest side by side.
This book also elaborates another very useful practicing principle about conjunction and aspect. Generally, all books maintain results of planetary association and aspect. But James Braha explains conjunction or aspect as barter of influence. When a benefic and malefic mutually conjoin or aspect each other then they exchange their positive and negative energies. Suppose if Saturn and Jupiter are in conjunction then significations of Saturn will prosper because of Jupiterian positive energy, while significations of Jupiter will shrink because of Saturnine negative energy. As a result native will be long lived, respected professional, take interest in classical or archival subjects, receive ancestral property, got political favour and benefit from oldies (i.e. Saturn's significations imbibe Jupiterian energies). On the other hand, children, teachers, anticipation from luck, legal affairs, pilgrimage and travel will bring suffering and loses (i.e. Jupiter's significations imbibe Saturnine energies). You can expand this reasoning for house lordship as well, that is, what houses Jupiter rules and what houses Saturn rules. However, the exchange of energies depends upon longitudinal closeness of conjunction or aspect.
James Braha holds orbs of conjunction and aspect do matter and a practicing Jyotishi should consider them. Say, an opposition between Mars and Jupiter with an orb of 2 degrees affects far greater than orb of 20 degrees. Similarly, there are some references about applying and separating aspect between aspectant and aspected planets. Albeit it is bit sound like annual and horary techniques, but James Braha emphasizes they work in natal chart too, especially when one of the planets is retrograde.
The author also questions the reliability of Vargottama and Neechabhanga Rajayoga. He thinks these two concepts are simply over-rated. According to James Braha, Vargottama (i.e. planet in same Rashi and Navamsa) may slightly enhance potential of a planet, but does not make a planet as if it is in its own sign. This is especially true when a Vargottama planet is relegating at concluding or initial degree of a sign, where it does not yield any significant benefit. He also doubts efficacy of Neechabhanga. Around half a dozen cancellation criteria of debilitation has made the occurrence of Neechabhanaga very common. He argues that a debilitated planet, even if involved in Rajayoga, do hurt the native according to traits and area of life it rules. This is an approach quite similar to author's first mentor R. Santhanam.
James Braha makes a clear distinction between retrograde and stationary planet. At some occasions, he labels stationary planet as 'wild card' – a rare condition that can catapult a horoscope too high. He also provides a unique and little known interpretation of retrograde planet. According to him, a retrograde planet foretells latent energies, and thus appears delaying or denying the effect of house it rules, especially during first half of life. For example, native actualizes importance of his appearance, personality and recognition late in life, when ascendant lord is retrograde. In a similar fashion, a retrograde 7th lord or Venus makes one reluctant whether to marry or not at young age. Due to passive energies of retrograde 7th lord or Venus, native continuously thinks, reads and discusses this matter, but avoids wedlock on time.
There is lot of useful stuff in the "The Art and Practice of Ancient Hindu Astrology", and all in user friendly dialogue format. However, there is grave typographical mistake on page ## where author mistakenly interchanged Arudha with Atmakaraka. Although, these advance topics are not discussed in details, but this mistake should rectify in next edition of this wonderful book. Unfortunately, this title is not easily available in India and other Asian countries. Any Indian publisher should reprint its low-price paperback edition, so that beginners can benefit from this outstanding and unique book.
In summary, this work of James Braha is a very helpful guide for beginners who want to be a practicing astrologer. It practically teaches what works and what does not work in Jyotish. Highly recommended!
5- Astrology, Destiny and Wheel of Time by K.N. Rao
This is a blend of highly informative things from noted researcher and astrologer K.N. Rao. It includes stories revolving karma, forecasting principles, tips and techniques, tables, memoirs, notes, research hints and criticisms. In between the lines, author deals Laghu Parashari's principles of Vimshottari Dasha and some outcome of his research work. A large part of this book teaches practical usage of house-lord-karaka, Vimshottari Dasha and Gochar. In short, you will learn 'how to play with fundamentals of Jyotish', but in the mode of past accounts and observations of author. This is the reason of its inclusion in 5 must read for Jyotish beginners.
Style of K.N. Rao is simple and succinct when he introduces principles, expressive when he unfolds memories, bit secretive when he explains chart readings, and slightly blunt when he criticizes. He is very generous in revealing his research output but not so in explaining it. In one sense it is good that he hates spoon feeding, and prompts readers to draw their own conclusion after applying a principle on dozens or hundreds of charts.
"Astrology, Destiny and Wheel of Time" is analogous to a stream – natural, wavy, asymmetrical, fertile and fruitful. Before beginning of first chapter, some pages highlight the author and his astrological perspective, profile, letters and an interview. The first chapter barely spreads one page and appears a prologue. Chapter II accounts around 20 predictions given to a foreigner lady (M.C.). No delineation is reasoned and no forecast is astrologically described. But an intelligent reader can deduce most of the reasoning from scattered principles in the very book. For instance; on page 28 author delineates without reason "… she is either the eldest or youngest among co-borns". When a reader goes ahead, he/she will find a principle on page 177: "3rd lord in 11th house or 11th lord in 3rd house makes one the eldest or youngest among sisters and/or brothers".
Chapter IV of Section-I narrates a real story of a young man in jail waiting for death sentence, and how he was released. There are lot of learning material as well as astrological reasoning, especially about role of Jupiter and application of Antardasha and Pratyantardasha.
Section-II (page 42 to 98) is a significant part of this book and highly recommended to students of Jyotish. Without any intricacies, it explains the Laghu Parashari and Madhya Parashari. How to draw functional benefic, functional neutral and functional malefic lords of dasha, are not only explained but also tabulated. There are some clues how a planet can simultaneously attain multidimensional role of benefic and neutral, money giver and death causer, and so on. Author also advises to judiciously and flexibly apply these principles. This instructive section is a must read, because one who does not know and comprehend these principles can never ever handle Vimshottari Dasha. Chapter XIV of same section teaches how to use Rasi-Tulya-Amsa for predictive purpose. This section ends with three checklists for astrologers, and instructs around (10 + 15 + 7 =) 22 points and some cautions for judgment of horoscopes.
Section-III mainly focuses forecasting. However, the arrangement of material does not follow liner and logical course. It is in traditional Indian style of oral storytelling – intuitive and non-linear having touch of 'magical realism'. Astrological principles, case studies, stories of clients, memoir of mentors, and research outputs run side by side. This section also contains a chapter on methods of birth rectification but there are only clues and no approach is practically explained. The next chapter (Use of Divisional Horoscope) yields an excellent interpretation of life events on the chart of Sanjay Gandhi. Later chapters unveil some useful predictive techniques on Antar-Pratyantar Dasha and combined transit of Saturn and Jupiter for timing love, marriage and children.
"Why Belief in Destiny?" is the heading of Section-IV. Having five chapters, this part of book reiterates the predominate role of fate in one's life. Reincarnation, being eldest or youngest, parents, insanity, death and some uncontrollable events are discussed with case studies. Interestingly, the concluding chapter of book also contains excerpts of natal chart reading given to an American lady. Here author has mentioned 12 delineations, 21 predictions, and dozens of notes on different traits and events, but without astrological reasoning. Obviously author anticipates you to solve the riddle yourself.
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You pay good money for your headshot session but for many people it can be a source of stress. To minimize the frustration and stress, it's important to be prepared so your session results in many quality image choices. To prepare, there are specific steps to guarantee your success.
The easy parts of preparing are starting with a talented, experienced, headshot photographer and possibly adding hiring someone to help as a wardrobe stylist and getting your hair and makeup done professionally are the most common ways to prepare yourself for the headshot session. But, there are other considerations in your preparation. If you had headshots done previously, you may have noticed that some photographers are more skilled at providing directions to pose your look. This means it's a good idea to practice posing at home which also helps you relax in preparation for your photo session.
Here are 6 simple steps to prepare for your headshot session.
a. The Big Smile which can look forced or overly exageraged but some people have a natural, welcoming, big smile.
b. The Half Smile which provides a slight grin and it can look very natural on many people.
c. The Grin which is merely a closed mouth smile and it can look very natural too.
This may sound time consuming, but, with a little practice with a mirror, or your phone's camera, you can try to find a smile that looks the most natural on you. While checking out your expression, you can make sure you are not squinting the eyes too much or creating wrinkles on your nose and forehead.
2. Be aware of your jawline and chin. We help you pose to accent your natural jawline, but you can practice to increase your awareness of the ways to help define the jaw and minimize the double chin look. Start with the orange under the chin or turkey neck positioning. This is simply holding the neck slightly forward like you are holding an orange under the chin.
3. Relax. Unless you are getting three-quarter length photos, your hands won't appear in your headshots, but they are key to your appearing relaxed. Just let them drop, hang naturally, and don't tense up. Being tense will affect your posture and reflect in the body language of your photo.
4. Focus on your eyes. They are the window to your soul and they are the focal point of your headshot. Your photographer is going to focus on your eyes. When practicing your expression, remember the eyes show your personality. Don't squint or go bug eyed.
Remember, your headshot session should be fun. Your photographer should provide additional guidance to help your stance and posture to complete the look for your headshot. To be prepared, just following these tips will help you prepare, be relaxed and create a great portrait.
Self help information abounds in books and magazines on the shelves of libraries and stores. Quite possibly, you either own a few or read a few. Don't forget, your image is one way to easily invest in and improve yourself. But, many people don't know where to start when seeking that image update.
For starters, don't worry about the stereotypes or the strict, do-this-not-that rules. There are two key components to your image. You just need to decide what is your goal and what conveys your personality best? Don't worry, you can wear what you want if you feel it's going to help portray the image and style your looking to achieve.
What are these photos for and how will you use them?
Will your audience or peers expect these types of images or is it appropriate?
Can you describe in one word, the "environment" your image needs to fit into?
We can create multiple looks, one for your career and one for your personality!
You know yourself better than us, what are your stylistic instincts or preferences?
Do you have a favorite color, or favorite outfit, you feel photographs best for you?
Don't be shy, seek inspiration for a new look; if you love it - take a chance!
The goal of an image update, is renewing or transforming yourself to create new opportunities.
Updating your image can a fun experience with exploring looks, trying new styles, and reinventing yourself to create new opportunities for career, personal, or individual goals. We can customize a shoot to fit your needs complete with style consultants, hair stylists, and make-up artists to create your new image. Look at your next photo session as an investment in yourself. An investment in reaching your next goal.
You sign up with a social media site, create your profile, but no matter what you write about yourself, your photo makes the strongest impression in your online profile. The dating site, OKCupid published this article "Dating Deserves Better" a long time ago about the effectiveness of profile photos in online dating. It was true in 2009 and it's still true in 2018.
The OkCupid writer provides a universal "truth of online dating: no matter how much time you spend polishing your profile, honing your IM banter, and perfecting your message introductions, it's your picture that matters most." It was true when they published it and it's even truer today with social media use even more widespread. You need a complete profile to be successful and the shiny beacon to attract visitors is your profile image.
The idiom, "beauty is in the eye of the beholder" was never truer than today in our culture of the swipe left or right world of online dating. Attractiveness, sexyness, or beautiful are very subjective terms and the "special something" that "catches the eye of the beholder" varies from person to person. It makes sense to stack the deck in your favor, right? So, why rely on a poorly lit, hastily composed, cell-phone-selfie to make your lasting first impression?
Quality photos help you make a great first impression. Let us help you with an image update to stack the online dating odds in your favor.
How do you make a good first impression on social media platforms (like LinkedIn, Facebook, Tinder, Match, or your own website)? For starters, have a profile photo because many articles on the topic tell us a profile without a photo is less likely to viewed than those with photos. This Forbes article from Marcia Layton Turner lists 8 Ways to be more effective on LinkedIn. Her leading tip, "a current, professional headshot." She closes the article by saying profiles with photos are 21 times more likely to be viewed.
If having a profile photo just doubled the chances of potential client viewing your profile, that would be helpful. At 21 times more likely, a quality profile photo is worthwhile expense for making a great first impression. Whether your goal is networking, job hunting, or date finding; it pays to make an investment in quality, professional portraits.
The simplest advice is to look at your photo and ask yourself, would you hire this person?
Do you want to make a great impression? Visit our scheduling page and set up a session to upgrade your social media presence today.
It's a New Year and with so many economic indicators on the rise, this is a great time to update your headshot. Now days, it seems everyone has some sort of online presence be it for business use, personal, or the many ways to use social media. The important thing is you have to manage your image and that starts with updating it to keep a fresh look.
The digital age has given everyone a bit of celebrity in their lives. No longer are professional headshots the exclusive need for celebrities. Anyone with a social media presence should consider their image as their brand. That social media photo is the first impression potential customers, clients, or employers get of you. Don't let an outdated image hold you back!
For 2018, HeadshotMKE.com wants to give you a leg up on the competition. For starters, we are rolling out new, simplified pricing. Look for changes to the website in the coming days. We are offering two headshots for just $150. No cutting corners, you get to pick out your two favorite images at the session and we will have them ready the next day. Need more variety, we will continue to offer the longer sessions where we take more photos to give you even more options for your final images.
Everyone loves a deal. The best deals provide a combination of high quality along with an affordable price. This combination works and it applies to many situations. Some people call it price shopping while others call it deal hunting. Getting your updated headshot is no different.
Many photographers offer headshots as a sideline option for their photography business. This also means there are variations in price and quality when you on the web checking the various websites.
You will find many options for how photographers light the images as well as varying levels of quality. The way light is used separates the unprofessional "cell phone selfie" from professionally lit portraits. We want to eliminate the "cell phone selfie" look for 2018.
By getting a professional headshot photographer, you get great lighting. Additionally, you get a photographer with experience capturing expressive looks and conveying emotion in your images. All you have to provide is the wardrobe for your headshot look. Even there, a professional headshot photographer can help you pair parts of your ensemble for the best look.
At HeadshotMKE.com you will get affordable headshots that are quality headshots.
You invest in your company to make grow and for it to become successful. The same way you invest in your business, you must also invest in yourself and your team to develop an image to support the business branding you work to create. The best way to do that is by having professionally created, business headshots that portrays an image to future clients that projects you, your business, and shows both at your best.
Now more than every, the importance of a good looking, professional image cannot be underestimated. The internet dominates how customers find your business. Social Media determines how those customers see you and faster than you can swipe left or swipe right, those potential clients make an instantaneous buy/don't buy decision. Your profile needs to be one that conveys who you are, is a current image of you, and does not look like a cheap cell phone selfie.
How does a professional headshot help you? For starters, it looks great and it's a recent image of you. Many times, people use a years old image which makes it harder for people to recognize you. A current, professional headshot adds a level of authenticity to your business by showing you care about your personal image and your business image.
A professional headshot from Headshot MKE is for all the managers and leaders in your business who deal with the public. Headshots are no longer just for corporate executives. Today's customers want to put a face with the name of that person they talk with on the phone in your business. You need professional headshots for your key people for your company website, for your social media outreach, and for your marketing plan.


1ST TIER LOT IN SECLUDED DUNES JUST STEPS FROM BOARDWALK AND BEACH! Build your dream home in this highly desirable neighborhood tucked behind the massive dunes, pristine blue water and miles of untouched sugary white sand. Build a 2 or 3 story home and you will have breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico and the State Park to your north. Located on the most northern part of the Cape and voted one of the best beaches around! No HOA fees.
I was searching for a Property and found this listing (MLS® #261976). Please send me more information regarding Lot C-1 Secluded Dunes Dr, Port St. Joe, FL, 32456. Thank you!
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Click the button below to add the SD Lightweight Rimless Reading Glasses/ Gun to your wish list.
Very light weight frame with stainless steel very thin temples in a gunmetal and gold tone color.
Wear them all day and you will not even know you have them on!!
Lock nut technology which prevents the screws from coming out.
Lenses are high tech aspheric for a correct view.
These high end readers are priced at a great bargain!!
Nice and light, been using them for years.
Same wonderful glasses for years.
I have several of these glasses and find that I can easily carry them in my shirt pocket. They fit well and are very light on my face. The case is not of ideal quality but it's the glasses that make this purchase so much a value.
These glasses are very light weight and comfortable to wear. I have the gold color and I love the way they look. They are a bit fragile, so probably not good for someone who is hard on their glasses.
Quality product. Very light weight. No edge distortion.
I have had this type of glasses in the past and they are very light on my face and are inexpensive so I can have many pairs around the house.
I ordered these for use at work on the computer and they fit great, are light weight, and the range of vision is perfect for the computer. no rims to get in the way.
The lens are larger than I like. Several months ago I purchased 2 pairs of reading w/a power of 1.50 & the lens were a perfect size. The last 2 orders purchased are much larger - not as friendly size-wise.
Very lightweight quality readers. They do the everyday jobs of reading close up items. Much better quality then drugstore readers. Came with a sturdy case and cleaning cloth. Very pleased with my purchase.


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Vanessa paradies nackt
Vanessa paradies nackt. Has Vanessa Paradis ever been nude? 2019-04-11
Vanessa paradies nackt Rating: 9,1/10 1639 reviews
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They broke up in May 2015. Prior to that she was in a five-year relationship with. That same year, she was a member of the main competition jury of the. And she sailed through all of it with her indelible je ne sais quoi. Mai 1980 trat sie an der Seite des Moderators Jacques Martin in der Sendung L'école des fans, zum ersten Mal im Fernsehen auf. In 2016, Paradis starred in with her daughter Lily Rose, as a history teacher.
Stars Nackt
She started the in October. Canadian film director cast Paradis in a starring role in his film , in which she plays the single mother of a child in the 1960s. The second single was Les espaces et les sentiments. Née en 1982, la petite soeur de — la chanteuse et comédienne — Vanessa Paradis.
Vanessa Paradis Lolita
In 2005, she modeled for Chanel again for The New Mademoiselle handbag. In 1990, Paradis won the 1990 for her role in. Elisa was a big success in France, and was released internationally. This movie was shot and released in black and white. In March 1999, , by Patrice Leconte was released.
Why Johnny Depp didn't marry Vanessa Paradis
The first single, Love Song, was also written by Biolay. Johnny and Vanessa announced their shock split in June 2012, after 14 years together. From 1992 to 1997, she was in a relationship with , who also produced her 1992. In March 1993, Paradis started her first international tour, the ; she performed in France, England and Canada. Rating: 0 Vanessa Paradis ist eine französische Schauspielerin, Sängerin und Fotomodell. Especially in the racket that I'm in because you're constantly away or they're away and so it's hard.
In 2008, she modelled for. The album was written by acclaimed French composer , whom she met when she received the best singer award at , on 4 February 1990. It wasn't easy on me. Wedding bells have rung for and director Samuel Benchetrit. You might as well make the best of it. The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Condé Nast.
In 2004, she promoted Chanel's new handbags called Ligne Cambon. This is the first marriage for Paradis, though she was with Depp for 1998 to 2012. Paradis released an acoustic album in November 2010 entitled Une nuit à Versailles. . In March 1989, at age 16, she left high school to pursue her singing career.
Vanessa Paradis weds director Samuel Benchetrit in France
Her included performances in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Europe and. W Magazine may earn a portion of sales from products that are purchased through our site as part of our Affiliate Partnerships with retailers. Sie hat eine jüngere Schwester, Alison. Als Model für Chanel in den 90ern wurde Paradis über die Grenzen ihres Heimatlandes hinaus bekannt.
22 Breathtaking Photos of Vanessa Paradis Through the Years
You don't need somebody to say, okay you're married. Vanessa's sister, , is also an actress. If you wish to change your mind and would like to stop receiving communications from hellomagazine. She's got such a good last name. In May 2014, at a Chanel show in Dubaï , Vanessa Paradis confirmed her relationship with French singer.
Naked Celebs Pics: Vanessa Paradis Nue Nude Pictures
She also became the face of their new handbag line, Ranger. Ihr erster internationaler Erfolg als Sängerin war das Lied Joe Le Taxi aus dem Jahr 1987. So why has the 50-year-old star decided to walk down the aisle with his Rum Diary co-star, 27? In April 1994, Paradis filmed , under the direction of. She'd go on, of course, to become a wonderful actress, a fashion icon, a Chanel fixture, a wife to Johnny Depp and then ex-wife , a mom to.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


A bed and breakfast can be the perfect getaway for most occasions. Ohio has numerous to choose from and this particular blog post will cover some on the best in the Southeast portion of the assert.
In the deep recesses of regional outdoor store, you should find a rack or two full of what is called 3.11 Tactical gear. This is a whole afternoon line of outdoor wear that used not necessarily for outdoor activities but for work as well. If you work a great outdoor environment such which include construction or some kind of civil engineering, you likely go through your work pants and boots quite successfully. This is a large expense when you take into account that you need to constantly be replacing both.
Designs for log cabins must be chosen after due thought otherwise your log cabin may end shaped your unique interest in had always wanted. First be sure about intent for which you want the log vacation. Whether you want a vacation lodge or perhaps a hunting lodge take that main. If you want to use use the log cabin as your home, then safety must kept objective while selecting a design. Log home plans are readily available on the web from which you'll also gauge the reputation of the supplier. Go through all the home plans as well as decide.
The causef I say it a unspoiled kind of vacation is mainly because of actuality that this lodge caters you a whole service with professional guide. Meaning to say, when a person in drinking water ready to fish, the guide is more than willing to help you that ideal catch. Could certainly search to do this Alaska salmon fishing lodge ahead a bit too. It is great since you available boats and they personally are to cater your necessitates. If you brought for your tackle, it's even great as amazing will in order to to earn that "big one" involving catch.
Eight more than a list is termed Owen's room, and is listed at $ 219. per night. It is a grand suite and has a sitting area in this can. The bed is king sized; as well as tell me it is really a Great House Bed. Either way; this room will be the perfect http://imogene4talley55.soup.io/post/616765345/The-Top-Places-To-Be-Able-To choice with the trip to the Gregory Inn in Denver, Colorado.
Non Nuoc Beach is 17 km from Da Nang city center, an hour flight from Ha Noi or Ho Chi Minh City. Non Nuoc Beach was famous in weight problems as it served as R&R Beach Resort for people like us Servicemen. White sand beaches, clear water are what Non Nuoc Beach offers. Activities it can be carried out to practice there are scuba diving, water skiing, snorkeling, trimaran sailing. luxury resort hotel combined with white sand private beaches certainly not fails an interesting beach holiday.
In the 19th century, Kinlochleven the tiny hamlet with a scattering of cottages. In 1907 the aluminium smelter was built and a good town was developed but the conditions in it were dangerous. Surrounded by mountains and by having an abundance of fresh water, Kinlochleven appeared to be an ideal location for hydro-powered factory from pet owners point of view on the other hand had little thought for your workers. Then, Aluminium production stopped in 2000.
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A group from West Islip took part in the 2017 Long Beach Polar Bears Super Bowl Splash when the main color was red.
This year's main color is grey, featuring red and blue writing. ItemS include baseball and knit hats, sweat and yoga pants, sweatshirts and long-sleeve T-shirts, hoodies, towels, car magnets and more.
This year's Polar Bear hoodies.
Stay warm in these Polar Bear knit hats.
This year's apparel also includes these thin hoodies.
Stay cozy in these flannel pants after the big dip.
Hofstra University students Hannah Klemm and Brianna Montgomery sold Polar Bear towels on the boardwalk in 2015.
Polar Bears took the plunge in 2017. Need to dry off after the big dip? Check out this year's array of clothing and apparel at www.longbeachpolarbears.org or the Official Long Beach Polar Bears on Facebook.
Meyers is, of course, referring to the annual Long Beach Polar Bears Super Bowl Splash, which raises money for the Make-A-Wish Metro New York Foundation and helps fulfill the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions. The event, organized by the Long Beach Polar Bear Club, has raised more than $6 million to date.
The first splash, in 1998, was a two-man event: Co-founders Kevin McCarthy and Meyers jumped into the Atlantic Ocean on the morning of the Super Bowl. They turned the plunge into a charity event in honor of their friend Mike Bradley's son, Paulie, who died of cancer at age 4.
One area of excitement among supporters every year, Meyers said, is the event's array of apparel and color selection. Over time, Meyers explained, Polar Bear swag has become a must-have among participants. Members of the McCarthy, Meyers and Bradley families convene to decide on featured items and color scheme.
This year's main color is grey, featuring red and blue writing, Meyers said. Items will include baseball and knit hats, sweat and yoga pants, sweatshirts and long-sleeve T-shirts, hoodies, towels, car magnets and more.
With the Super Bowl Splash set for Feb. 3, Meyers said the hope is to raise more crucial funds than last year's event, while uniting thousands across New York. Whether people hit the beach or boardwalk, either to take the plunge in the Atlantic Ocean or to proudly sport their new swag in show of support, it's all for a worthwhile cause.
Check out this year's array of clothing and apparel at www.longbeachpolarbears.org or the Official Long Beach Polar Bears on Facebook.
Editor's note: This story originally appeared in the fall 2018 issue of Long Beach Magazine.


Simple, draped tunic top with small side slits, short cap sleeves and a straight boat neckline.
Cozy in winter as a layering piece, breathable and light in summer as a colorful top, this blouse will soon become a staple piece in your wardrobe.
Raw, rolled edges finish this minimalistic top, pictured here in Ink black and Teal, in sizes S and M respectively.


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Janusz Onyszkiewicz
Former Defence Minister and Chair, Executive Council, Euro-Atlantic Association (Poland)
ELN Poland
Janusz Adam Onyszkiewicz is a Polish mathematician and politician. From January 2007 until mid-2009, he served as the Vice-President of the Foreign Affairs Committee in the European Parliament.
Mr Onyszkiewicz was elected as a Member of Parliament from 1989 until 2001. From 1992 until 1993, he was promoted to Minister of Defence under Prime Minister Hanna Suchocka, and again from 1997 until 2000 under Prime Minister Jerzy Buzek.
From 2004 until 2009, he served as a Member of the European Parliament and was elected as a Vice-President of the Parliament, a post he held from 2004 until 2007.
Mr Onyszkiewicz is Chairman of the International Centre for Democratic Transition's (ICDT) International Board of Directors. He is a member of the administration of the Centre for International Relations, Vice-Chairman of the Asia-Pacific Council and the Chairman of the Council of the Institute for 'Bridges to the East' . He is the Chairman of the Polish Alpinism Association and from 2004 has served as the Chairman of the Euro-Atlantic Association Council.
He is also a member of the Advisory Board for the European Leadership Network (ELN).
Content by Janusz Onyszkiewicz
A Lend-Lease program for Ukraine: Deterrent against conflict escalation
To support Ukraine against Russian aggression and deter further escalation, NATO and the EU should look to World War II history and borrow a page from President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
3 December 2018 | Janusz Onyszkiewicz
How Brexit is likely to impact European Security and Defence
Janusz Onyszkiewicz argues that new initiatives for EU defence integration should strengthen the EU-NATO relationship further and he proposes a new informal European Security Council
17 July 2017 | Janusz Onyszkiewicz
Brexit and its Impact on British-Polish Relations
Janusz Onyszkiewicz, former Polish Defence Minister and ELN member, shares his thoughts on how Brexit is likely to impact key aspects of British-Polish relations.
29 June 2017 | Janusz Onyszkiewicz
See all content by Janusz Onyszkiewicz


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Islay LIMPET (acrónimo de Land Installed Marine Power Energy Transmitter) fue la primera planta comercial de generación de electricidad basada en olas, o sea en la energía undimotriz, que entró en servicio comercial en el año 2000. Está situado en la isla de Islay, en el archipiélago escocés de las Islas Hébridas, y suministra energía a la red eléctrica del Reino Unido. La potencia instalada es de 500 kW, compartida por dos turbinas Wells instaladas en un sistema de columnas oscilantes inclinadas.

Descripción
La planta de LIMPET se construyó en el año 2000 y está ubicada en la Claddach Farm en los Rinns de Islay  región dentro la isla escocesa de Islay, isla por la que lleva su nombre. Islay LIMPET fue desarrollado por la empresa generadora de energía Wavegen en cooperación con la Universidad de la Reina de Belfast.

La capacidad de la planta de Islay LIMPET es de 500 kW, utilizando una instalación costera de Columna de agua Oscilante (OWC o Columna de Agua Oscilante) para transformar la energía de las olas en energía neumática dentro de una cámara de concreto. La cámara neumática es un tubo de hormigón inclinado con su boca por debajo del nivel del mar. La acción de las olas provoca la oscilación de la columna de agua contenida en la cámara, que comprime y descomprime el aire de la parte superior. El flujo de aire bidireccional resultante de la oscilación es canalizado a través de dos turbinas Wells, con rotaciones opuestas, cada una de ellas acoplada a un generador eléctrico de 250 kilovatios

Para el año 2010, la planta tenía una disponibilidad media del 98%, habiendo trabajado ya más de 60.000 horas conectado a la red comercial, lo que lo sitúa al mismo nivel de producción eléctrica de tecnologías como la eólica y la hidroeléctrica.

En la isla de Pico, en las Azores, funciona desde noviembre de 1999 una planta piloto, la Pico Wave Power Plant, con 400 kW de potencia instalada, utilizando la misma tecnología que la usada en Islay Limpet.

Referencias

Enlaces externos

 Islay LIMPET Wave Power Plant (Página oficial de Wavegen)
 LIMPET en la página de Queen's University Belfast

Escocia
Energía eléctrica
Centrales eléctricas

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


My son and I always look forward to enjoying hot chocolate once the weather turns cold. We love to pile on the whipped cream too! If you are having a holiday party try making this delicious peppermint white hot chocolate. It is perfect for holiday guests or Christmas morning. It's a great twist on the traditional hot chocolate!
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and peppermint extracts.
3. Serve warm with additional toppings as desired.
What's your favorite way to enjoy hot chocolate? Comment below and share with us!
I am going to have to make this for my grandson – he would love it!


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Culture Shift & Stuff.
"We screwed up"
When Telecom's XT mobile network failed in a very public fashion; a mea-culpa was in order, so they called Chameleon Partners. We helped them with communications to manage the crisis internally, and when the network was fixed, we suggested that the best way to get back on side with customers was not just
to say sorry - a bit of self deprecating humour wouldn't hurt either. The result was a campaign that saw Telecom widely praised for its swift response and brave initiative.
The editor of NZ Today magazine, Allan Dick had this
say about the apology:
"This is a nicely judged, New Zealand heartland commercial and the Paul Reynolds "bugger"
ad is as pure New Zealand as the Toyota ads and
Barry Crump."
Don't know about that Allan, but cheers, everyone was certainly pretty chuffed.
Clients: Telecom New Zealand. Paul Reynolds, CEO. Tina Symmans, Corporate Relations Director.
"We want to reach the hard to reach"
When telecommunications infrastructure
company Chorus were ready to launch their ultra-fast broadband service, they asked Chameleon Partners for help in targeting the early adopters. We chose to
engage the vibrant local creative community to help demonstrate how ultra-fast broadband will
help put a country like New Zealand on the world
stage. The result was a digital art exhibition held in
New York, which was the largest display of content
in Times Square history.
"It blows the norms out of the water for
being distinctive"
Colmar & Brunton
Clients: Chorus New Zealand. Mark Ratcliffe, CEO. Victoria Crone, GM Sales & Marketing
"We want to start a conversation"
While ultra-fast broadband has the power to transform New Zealand both socially and economically, getting a conversation started in middle New Zealand was somewhat difficult. Again, Chorus turned to Chameleon
Partners. Our solution was Gigatown - a year long competition amongst New Zealand towns who would compete via social media to have their town fired up with the fastest internet in the Southern hemisphere.
In 2014, 5 of NZ's top 10 hashtags were about Gigatown. The campaign exceeded all its business objectives and generated over $32m in positive media exposure. It won the supreme award and two others at the 2015 TVNZ Marketing Awards.
Download the case study here
"We have to shore up stakeholder support"
When Team New Zealand lost the Americas Cup in 2003, they needed to show their supporters and sponsors the very essence of what it means to be onboard Team New Zealand: generous in victory and gracious in defeat. Filmed the morning after the Alinghi victory and put to
air hours later, Team New Zealand reminded us that whatever the stakes, win, lose or draw; you shake your opponents hand and say 'good game, well played.' Swiss television screened the commercial to demonstrate the graciousness of the New Zealand team.
Client: Team New Zealand. Tony Thomas, Commercial Manager
"We need to make our mark on the world"
It was a global crowd-funding project 3 years before anyone had ever heard about kickstarter. 10,517 tee shirts - the distance in km's between NZ and Santa Monica - were made to fund the building of a giant
silver fern the size of Eden Park on Santa Monica
Beach. The fern, built on Waitangi Day 2006, was built
to promote the characteristics that define New Zealand made products and ideas.
"WE NEED THE TILL TO RING"
Well being in the accounting business you would
expect the nice folk at Xero to say something like that, but ringing is what the till did. And quite loudly.
A simple television campaign to highlight the impressive international reputation that Xero had built, helped increase direct sales by 51%.
Client: Xero. Victoria Crone, Managing Director Justin Fraser, Marketing Manager
"we need bums on seats"
This was the problem that faced the organisers of our America's Cup defence. 'An elitist rich white man's sport', was how middle NZ viewed the event. Our job was to reassure NZ that not only would Auckland - as hosts -
step up to the plate; but that the event would be a brilliant spectacle for the entire country to watch. The Cup Village was New Zealand's largest tourist attraction with over 3 million visitors in 6 months.
Client: America's Cup Village Ltd. Sue Foley, Head of Corporate Affairs
"We need to save lives"
Yeah, so no pressure then. The Red Nose Day campaign
- a vehicle to raise funds for Cot Death research
is an oldie but a goody. Together with Murray Grindlay and Murray McNabb we composed a song called 'You Make The Whole World Smile.' Sung by Hammond Gamble, and with a video crammed with local celebrities,
the Red Nose song quickly climbed to the top of the singles chart.
Sales of the single meant the campaign paid for itself and even more money went to Cot Death prevention.
In its 5 year run the campaign helped raise over 5 million dollars. 'You Make The Whole World Smile quickly became a platinum record and it was the biggest selling
New Zealand song in 1992 - and is the only song ever
to reach the No.1 chart position two years in a row.
"CHAMELEON? NEVER HEARD OF YOU"
That's because it's all about you, not us. Flying under
the radar is how we like it. Anyway as Mum used to
say - "No one likes anyone that talks about themselves too much"
Life's too short.
But if you're reading this, then you're obviously a
little curious. If we had a long suite - it's Culture shift.
We've developed strategies and executed
campaigns that have dramatically shifted the way people feel about organisations large and small, like those above. We work with people who can say 'yes'.
We create content to help organisations define
who they are.
We're a bunch of thinkers and doers here at
Chameleon. We're either a communications agency that makes what it creates - or a production company that thinks; depending on what we've got on at the time.
We've been called an ad agency, content makers, experiential producers and a quite few things
in-between.
As a girl Nic used to go out with once said: 'You can
call me anything you like, as long as you don't call me late for breakfast.'
Labels aren't important in our neck of the woods.
In fact there's quite a few things we do differently, which means Chameleon isn't for everyone.
So there you have it. What we do and how we do it.
Stuff that turns into solutions. Solutions that solve problems. Problems we all face.
If you think you might like the cut of our jib:
Don't be shy. Get in touch. Throw us a problem to solve.
About Nic by Simon
If you were arrested, and stuck in a Portuguese jail,
and couldn't speak the language and never had a need for a lawyer, because in your entire life you never had anything worse than a parking ticket, but you were allowed one phone call - and that one call could get
you out of the shit, the call you make is to Nic. He's
that sort of guy.
At Chameleon when Nic is not being a fixer he's doing the business. Or being a pilot.
Actually, better txt, he very rarely answers his phone.
Nic Craig
nic@chameleonpartners.co.nz
About Simon by Nic
The quintessential 'Creative Machine' and 'Master
of the 'Big Idea'. Simon's ability to cut through the inconsequential 'noise' and hone directly in on a client's 'core needs' is impressive in and of itself. To then craft and create such unique and elegant solutions; ultimately delivered through inspired and truly memorable executions, is something that continues to be a constant source of amazement to me.
He also likes brunettes, long walks on the beach and drives like your grandfather on valium.
Simon Shattky
simon@chameleonpartners.co.nz
Chameleon Partners, 3/ 55 Mackelvie Street, Ponsonby, Auckland, 1021


Single transfer, designed to fit on small wide candles. Approx size 25mm X 50mm.
* Soak the transfer in a bowl of water until the transfer film starts to move off the paper backing. You can feel it start to move when held between finger and thumb.
* Lift the transfer and paper backing out of the water and slide a small amount of the transfer onto the surface of the candle. Hold the top left corner and pull the backing paper out from the transfer allowing it to settle onto the candle.
* If you need to adjust the positioning then move carefully by holding opposite corners and push/slide the transfer. Try not to move it too far as the transfer may ruckle.
* Holding the transfer at the top left or top right, use a soft cloth to squeeze out air bubbles and water moving diagonally across the transfer.
* Leave to dry for at least 6 hours before using the decorated item.


text:
OneLogin Announces Integration Partnership with Ultimate Software for HR-driven Identity Management
SAN FRANCISCO, Calif., November 17, 2016 - OneLogin, the identity management provider bringing speed and integrity to the modern enterprise, today announced an integration partnership with Ultimate Software, an award-winning provider of cloud-based human capital management (HCM) solutions, to deliver HR-driven Identity (HDI) for secure, single sign-on access to SaaS applications and devices.
"This integration enables organizations to easily adopt an HR-centric identity and user management workflow," said David Meyer, vice president of product, OneLogin. "OneLogin provides a seamless integration that imports user identities from UltiPro; provisions them to Active Directory, LDAP, and SaaS apps; then provides access to the correct apps based on user attributes such as department and title."
"Ultimate Software and OneLogin offer a strong partnership for our mutual customers," said Martin Hartshorne, vice president of products, Ultimate Software. "UltiPro used in combination with OneLogin empowers HR teams to onboard and offboard employees from specific business applications automatically, enabling new employees to be immediately productive while ensuring that former employees can no longer access company apps and data that are restricted to active team members."
HCM systems are the primary "source of truth" for identity since a company's HR team is typically the first to know when an employee's status changes — a new hire starts, a person's role changes, or an employee leaves the company. For this reason, forward-thinking companies are connecting their HCM and IAM systems to ensure that application security accurately reflects employment status. This integration builds upon OneLogin and Ultimate Software's existing SAML Single Sign-on (SSO) integration, providing secure access to UltiPro through OneLogin's web portal and best-in-class connectors to AD, LDAP, and Google Directory.
Webinar: Secure Your Company from the SaaS Tsunami
Partner Page: Ultimate Software
Datasheet: OneLogin for UltiPro
Documentation: UltiPro/OneLogin Integration Guide
About Ultimate Software
Ultimate is a leading provider of cloud-based human capital management (HCM) solutions, with more than 30 million people records in the cloud. Ultimate's award-winning UltiPro delivers HR, payroll, talent, and time and labor management solutions that connect people with the information they need to work more effectively. Founded in 1990, Ultimate is headquartered in Weston, Florida, and employs more than 3,500 professionals. In 2016, Fortune ranked Ultimate #1 on its list of 10 Best Large Workplaces in Technology and #15 on its 100 Best Companies to Work For list, the fifth consecutive year to be ranked in the top 25. Ultimate was also ranked #1 on Glassdoor's list of 25 Highest-Rated Public Cloud Computing Companies to Work For, listed #8 on Forbes' list of the 100 Most Innovative Growth Companies, and ranked #1 in customer satisfaction in G2 Crowd's Summer 2016 Core HR Software Grid report, based on user reviews. Ultimate has more than 3,500 customers with employees in 160 countries, including Bloomin' Brands, Culligan International, Feeding America, Major League Baseball, Pep Boys, SUBWAY, Texas Roadhouse, and Yamaha Corporation of America. More information on Ultimate's products and services for people management can be found at www.ultimatesoftware.com.
OneLogin brings security and productivity to the modern enterprise with an award-winning single sign-on (SSO) and cloud identity and access (IAM) management platform. Our portfolio of solutions secures connections across all users, all devices, and every application, helping enterprises drive new levels of business integrity, operational velocity, and team efficiency across all their cloud and on-premise applications. The choice for innovators of all sizes such as Condé Nast and Steelcase, OneLogin manages and secures millions of identities around the globe. We are headquartered in San Francisco, California. For more information, visit www.onelogin.com, Blog, Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn.


Human skin has the ability to go back to its original position after it is stretched. However, when a person gains weight then fat is accumulated in a specific area the skin in that area loses elasticity due to excessive stretching. Due to this, the skin becomes fluffy. In order to counter that belt lipectomy surgery is needed to contour the body and remove loose skin and fat.
If you are looking for belt lipectomy surgery in Abu Dhabi then you should consider Dubai Cosmetic Surgery.
The belt lipectomy is usually performed after a person loses some weight. If the drains and muscle tightening is not involved then the person can recover quickly fast. The patient would be ready to work in two weeks. However with drains and muscle tightening it can take longer.
Most of the patients require a short stay in the hospital usually one to two days due to the extensive time it takes for the surgery to be completed. After two to three days tubes are removed from the body. When tubes are removed you would be able to take a shower. However, the patients would wear the compression dress all the time except when they shower.
During this time patients will feel a little discomfort due to swelling, however, painkillers are prescribed to them so that they could feel as little discomfort as possible. Patients are encouraged to move as soon as they can so that the blood could flow and blood clotting could be prevented.
During this time your swelling will decrease greatly. However, it might not disappear completely. By the fourth week, patients can increase their activity. Patients will be able to return to work at this point. However, you can't return to more tough activities. After six weeks the patients would reach the point when you will be able to return to tougher activates.
Most patients can see that the swelling would be dropped by 70% to 80% within the first three weeks of the procedure. Within six months the swelling would be reduced to 90%. In six to nine months the patients would be fully healed with no swelling.
If you want more information or are considering belt lipectomy surgery in Abu Dhabi. Feel free to contact us at Dubai Cosmetic Surgery. As we also offer free online consultation with professional cosmetic surgeons. All you need to do is fill the form below.


Winter Workshops and Hafla in Delft featuring Shems (USA)!
Siobhan and Greenstone Belly Dance are ecstatic to announce that we'll be hosting Shems (USA) to teach a saidi workshop and perform at our winter hafla in Delft in January 2019! Read on for all the details.
Shems is a professional belly dance instructor and performer currently residing in Enschede. Previously based in Baltimore, Maryland, Shems directed the professional dance company Barakaat, taught regular classes and workshops, produced theatrical dance events, and was a popular performer at regional venues and national events. Shems has studied with several internationally renowned Middle Eastern dance instructors, and has been honored to perform with world-class musicians. Shems honors the many beautiful cultural dance traditions of the Middle East and North Africa and continues to learn, practice, and share the joy that they bring her with others.
Open-level Saidi workshop with Shems (canes provided for those who register in advance). 30 euro before January 6, 2019, 35 euro thereafter.
A fun, casual event, this hafla (the arabic word for "party") will allow dancers and non-dancers alike to mingle, have a shimmy, and enjoy belly dance performances .From 19:00 onwards, nibbles provided. Spectator tickets are 7 euro (payment via bank transfer or exact change only; performers do not pay entry).
To Register: Simply visit Greenstone Belly Dance's event page.
A special thank you to Luna and bellydance-events.com for sharing our event on their website. Check it out to stay up to date with belly dance events around the world!
Come and see Siobhan belly dance at Love & Peas in Den Haag as part of Winterlicht 2018!
I'm very excited to announce that I will be performing at Love & Peas in Den Haag this Sunday the 16th of December as part of Winterlicht 2018!
You can catch me there at 16:00. I'll be posting exact set times on my Facebook page if you'd like to stay up to date. See you there!
Watch Siobhan of Greenstone Belly Dance performing in Den Haag, November 2018!
Things are getting busy in the lead up to Christmas and the New Year here in the Netherlands! I've been performing at several private and public events, and I'm organising the 2019 belly dance class roster. If you want to learn belly dance in Holland next year, stay tuned, as Greenstone Belly Dance will be offering classes in multiple locations!
At the beginning of this month, I danced to a favourite classic at MounaMay's 10 year anniversary show in Den Haag – the beautiful Lissa Fakir! Watch it below!
Watch Siobhan at Festival Oriental Impressions 2018!
Happy Monday everyone! I hope those of you in the Northern hemisphere are keeping warm, and that those of you in the Southern hemisphere are starting to get some more sun!
As many of you know, this year I made the big move to the Netherlands from Montréal, Canada. I have to admit, one of the things that made me most sad about leaving Montréal was leaving the vibrant, thriving, and high-level dance scene.
I had a great time getting to meet a whole lot of dance students, performers and teachers last month at Festival Oriental Impressions, and it was great to chat and watch everyone dance!
Make your end-of-year event unforgettable with a professional belly dance performance!
Are you looking to organise a Christmas party, end-of-year work function, or any other corporate event in the Netherlands to celebrate the New Year? Make your event unforgettable with a professional belly dance performance! Enquire now to find out about our different performance packages available across Holland.
Bent u op zoek naar een kerstfeest, eindejaarsfeest of een ander bedrijfsevenement in Nederland om het nieuwe jaar te vieren? Maak uw evenement onvergetelijk met een professionele buikdansoptreden! Informeer nu naar onze verschillende voorstellingspakketten die in Nederland verkrijgbaar zijn.
Watch Siobhan at Tribal Momentum 2018!
In case you missed it over on our Facebook page, Siobhan's performance from this year's edition of Tribal Momentum in Montreal, Canada is now online!
Siobhan originally performed a semi-choreographed version of this piece to a small group of dancers in the Laurentians at Aziza of Montreal's 2017 Dream Camp with Shahrzad. So here it is, revamped and souped up for Tribal Momentum – hope you enjoy!


Montreal, October 4, 2016 - Impulsion and McLarena, two works created in Montreal and produced by the Quartier des Spectacles Partnership, have been travelling to enchant audiences in London, Lugano and Indianapolis.
Impulsion, the installation that delighted visitors to the Place des Festivals last winter during Luminothérapie, will soon charm audiences in London and Lugano. The travelling version of the interactive work will feature 15 illuminated, sound-producing seesaws. London residents and visitors can try them out from October 5 to 27 in Leicester Square, as part of the city's Pause and Play Festival. The project is sponsored by the Heart of London Business Alliance. Lastly, it will visit the Swiss city of Lugano, on the main square of the LAC – Lugano Arte e Cultura festival, from December 1, 2016 to January 8, 2017. These are not the final stops for the popular interactive installation created by Lateral Office and CS Design: several other cities are in the process of making arrangements to host it soon.
Luminothérapie is Quebec's largest competition for temporary installations. It is aimed at producing original interactive winter experiences for visitors to the Quartier des Spectacles, and at stimulating creativity in urban installations and digital art.
The McLarena installation, created by Daily tous les jours, was presented at the Indianapolis light festival, IN Light IN, in August this year. This playful participatory work is inspired by the film Canon, made in 1964 by Norman McLaren and Grant Munro. The installation invites visitors to enter a shipping container converted into a studio and imitate the dance of the character in the film. A continuous video is created and projected on the side of an adjacent building.
The work was first presented in the Quartier des Spectacles, from April 11 to June 1, 2014, as part of the McLaren Wall to Wall event co-produced by the National Film Board of Canada and the Quartier des Spectacles Partnership.
"Works like Impulsion and McLarena put Montreal in the spotlight, and boost our city's brand image. The Partnership's work helps Montreal and its artists shine around the world, and presents our city as a world-class cultural destination," said Mr. Denis Coderre, Mayor of Montreal.
The international recognition of the Quartier des Spectacles is the result of the Partnership's efforts to promote its creators, productions and expertise on the international circuit. In recent years, the Partnership has ramped up its exchanges with other cultural cities and joined major international networks including the Connecting Cities Network and Lighting Urban Community International (LUCI), as well as the Global Cultural Districts Network (GCDN), an association of cities that have pooled their efforts and expertise on the management of cultural districts.
Left: 21 Swings in Colorado (Photo by Daily tous les jours). Right: Iceberg in Brussels (Photo by Eventattitude).
This is not the first time works created for the Quartier des Spectacles have attracted international interest. Installations such as 21 Swings, created by Montreal-based studio Daily tous les jours, have won international awards and generated significant media coverage in several countries. A version of 21 Swings was installed in Colorado for the Green Box Arts Festival. Other works, such as the Trouve Bob video projection by the Champagne Club Sandwich collective, and the monumental Iceberg installation by ATOMIC3 and Appareil Architecture, have been much appreciated in Europe.
The Quartier des Spectacles Partnership, founded in 2003, is a non-profit organization with some 60 members active in the district. Its Board of Directors includes representatives of cultural organizations and institutions, educational institutions, business, municipal government and community organizations. The Partnership's 20 permanent employees program cultural presentations and oversee activities for the Quartier des Spectacles. The team is also responsible for the Quartier's public spaces, specialized facilities, illumination and promotion. The Partnership is supported by the Ville de Montréal and the Secrétariat à la région métropolitaine.
IMPULSE is an urban interactive work composed of a series of giant illuminated and sound-producing seesaws. To activate them, visitors straddle them like any other seesaw. Once in motion, the built-in lights and speakers produce a harmonious sequence of sounds and lights, resulting in a constantly evolving ephemeral composition. IMPULSE is an urban installation that renews itself for every different audience. Each person becomes, while on the seesaws, the player of a novel instrument.
IMPULSE is the winning work of Luminothérapie 6th edition. To learn more about the contest and past winners, visit the press kit.
Lateral Office, founded by Mason White and Lola Sheppard, is an experimental design practice that operates at the intersection of architecture, landscape, and urbanism. The practice is interested in architecture`s engagement with environment, climate and culture. The scope of their work spans from regional and urban design to temporary installations and exhibitions. Recent work and research focuses on powerful design relationships between public realm, infrastructure, and the environment.
CS Design was founded in 2008 by Conor Sampson. A wide array of architecture, landscape architecture and engineering firms have hired the firm to design lighting for parks, heritage buildings, monuments and artworks. CS Design's areas of expertise include electric lighting and programmable control specification, custom fixture design, daylighting in buildings and public spaces, and energy efficiency.
Egli Gallaccio Palanca is a Montreal-based consulting engineering firm. Thomas Egli is a civil engineer and president of Groupe EGP. He has worked on numerous large-scale projects and is a professor of civil engineering at McGill University.
Mitchell Akiyama is a Toronto-based composer, artist and scholar. He has released over ten records on such labels as Raster Noton, Sub Rosa and Alien8, in addition to works on his own imprint, Intr.version Records. He has scored numerous films and dance performances. Akiyama has received commissions from, among others, the Akousma Festivals and the Nouvel Orchestre D'aujourd'hui. He has performed across Europe, Japan, Australia and North America in concert halls, clubs, art galleries, fallout bunkers and festivals including Sonar, Mutek and Send + Receive.
This playful participatory work invites passers-by to imitate the choreography of the character in McLaren's film Canon (1964), which depicts the musical genre of the canon in animated images. Each participant goes into the booth and is filmed on video while attempting to perform dance steps based on the preceding participant's video, causing a collaborative dance that evolves over the interpretation of each. The result, an endless video created by the participants, is projected on the façade of an adjacent building.
Known for collaborative creative experiences presented in public spaces, Daily tous les jours is a design studio with core interests in new ways to interact and tell stories. Its multidisciplinary projects combine participation, design and technology in many forms: objects, urban design and installations, exhibitions, social experiments, events, software applications and films. Through their interventions, Daily tous les jours invite citizens to be part of their environment transformation.
Their work has won numerous international recognitions including the Grand Prize at the 2014 UNESCO Shenzhen Design Awards, the 2015 Knights Cities Challenge Global Innovators Prize, and more recently, a Fast Company Innovation by Design Award.


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Home » News » Blog » Food Sovereignty and Biofuels
Food Sovereignty and Biofuels
By: Saulo Araujo | Março 23, 2007
Article three in a three issue series on biofuel in Brazil.
The memorandum of understanding between Brazil and the United States signed during the visit of President Bush to Brazil early this month has been under intense scrutiny. For one, the high U.S. tariffs on Brazilian ethanol make the initiative unrealistic for now. But speculative investors are already rushing to expand the "green desert", as activists have taken to calling the vast areas of monocrops like sugar cane, soybean and castor seed that bring high profits for agribusiness and industry at the cost of rural livelihoods and biodiversity. This expansion takes land and water rights and the possibility of a dignified livelihood away from rural families.
The industrial agriculture model, combined with the current, export-oriented trade perspective is destroying the livelihoods of family farmers, peasants, indigenous, fishermen, and afro-descendents communities. Food sovereignty-when peoples and communities have the right to control their own food and farming systems-is only possible if the resource rights of these communities are protected.
Social movements in Brazil are resisting because they see that the expansion of ethanol production and the green desert of the monocultures will cost dearly in terms of the already scarce resources of rural communities. They, like their counterparts in the U.S., are also developing local initiatives of social and environmental justice that supports local agriculture, family farmers and other small producers and the right for food for all.
The answer from Mali
Rural and urban social movements from around the World gathered last month in Mali to discuss the strategies to protect the food sovereignty of the poor. Here's an excerpt from the final declaration of the Food Sovereignty Conference in Mali:
"Food sovereignty is the right of peoples to healthy and culturally appropriate food produced through ecologically sound and sustainable methods, and their right to define their own food and agriculture systems. It puts those who produce, distribute and consume food at the heart of food systems and policies rather than the demands of markets and corporations. It defends the interests and inclusion of the next generation. It offers a strategy to resist and dismantle the current corporate trade and food regime, and directions for food, farming, pastoral and fisheries systems determined by local producers."
It is obvious that large scale biofuel production will move small-scale farmers, peasants, indigenous and afro-descendents communities in Latin America further from their food sovereignty, increasing hunger and dependence rather than improving the lives of the vast rural majority. Their human rights to food and a dignified life will be seriously threatened to supply a tiny percentage of the voracious energy demands of the U.S. and Europe.
Water and land rights in Brazil
Last year, Grassroots International interviewed several partners in Brazil about the expansion of sugar cane and other crops to the production of biofuels. Our partners had a unanimous response: that the expansion of sugar cane plantations will take away the dreams of thousands of peasants and rural workers to own a piece of land to grow food and raise their families. Today, it is clear that increased value of ethanol in the international market has inflated the price of land in some regions of Brazil, has also contributed to a worsening of the concentration of land ownership and has put pressure on even some small farmers to produce biofuel crops in hope of a small profit, rather than growing food for themselves and their hungry neighbors.
The infamous project of the Watershed Transposition of the São Francisco River, led by President Lula, also arose several times in our interviews. The watershed transposition project is a Pharaonic plan to re-route the waters of the already-overtaxed São Francisco River , which will be implemented through the construction of miles-long water canals and aqueducts to bring water to dry interior sections of Northeast Brazil. Marilene Melo, a member of the Pastoral Land Commission, told us that the resistance of state governors to the project is being overcome with promised expansion of investments in ethanol production.
Pernambuco state, for instance, is willing to back the project with the concession of federal land to grow sugar cane in the middle of the semi-arid region. Cultivation of sugar cane in the area will only be possible using the water of the already overexploited São Francisco River. Already, more than 10 million people in the semi-arid region live without enough clean, safe water to meet their basic domestic needs. Increasing irrigation for export will only make matters worse.
Brazil has decided to stick to the old playbook: economic growth based on corporate power. Instead of fulfilling his promise with the 800,000 landless families, President Lula is taking another route of development. His policies will favor the expansion of 9 million hectares of sugar cane alone, while landless rural workers are forced to cut cane instead of being provided with land to grow food, a right they are guaranteed under the Brazilian constitution.
The geopolitics of energy supply is based on the unsustainable dependency of the U.S. on fuel
As I write this it has been two weeks since President Bush visited Brazil. In that time the U.S. has consumed more than 280 million barrels of oil. The oil dependency of the U.S. has guided U.S. foreign policy into an unsustainable situation. The geopolitics of petroleum-in some cases put in place mostly through military power-has isolated the U.S. from the rest of the world and inflicted untold damage on the nations and people that stood between the U.S> and the oil that it wants.
Some supporters of a U.S.-Brazil biofuel trade agreement say that it will alleviate these problems, as it will contribute to lowering the U.S. dependency on oil.
This seems like wishful thinking. With consumption growing every day, it seems unrealistic that this shift to ethanol will be enough to make a real impact on the nation's petroleum addiction. Also, given that many of the same corporate and political power players are pushing biofuel as pushed the oil agenda, including top petroleum corporations and ex-governor of Florida Jeb Bush, it seems more likely that we will see slight changes in the cast of characters but little difference in the plot of the story.
The new geopolitical map will simply shift some focus from the Middle East to Brazil, Guatemala, Haiti, and Dominican Republic. It won't be the first time these countries have been asked to pay for our short-sighted energy policies. When interest rates rose as oil dollars dried up in the 80s, these countries fell into deep debt. Twenty years later the same nations will serve as the producers of biofuels. We expect the people of Latin America to hemorrhage sustainable rural livelihoods, land and water rights and a clean environment in order to put a band-aid on U.S. energy dependency.


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(Radio.com) Future and Young Thug have debuted the music video for their track "All da Smoke." The track is taken from the rappers' collaborative album, Super Slimey.
The gritty clip opens with a group of foster kids living in a group home. As some of them embark on a dangerous robbery attempt, rappers Young Thug and Future are seen performing the song in a dilapidated building.
Watch their brand new music video for the track "All da Smoke," which contains explicit language, here.