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Scrunch time: The peculiar physics of crumpled paper
When you crumple up your gift-wrapping paper this year, you'll create a shape so complex that it has defeated the most sophisticated computers
Physics 20 December 2011
WHEN you throw out your Christmas wrapping paper this year, don't tell Narayanan Menon and Anne Dominique Cambou. You'll be throwing away examples of their painstaking research.
That's because they study the physics of crumpled balls of paper, which contain deeper mysteries than you might expect. Take a sheet of A4, scrunch it up and throw it at a colleague. You'll notice that even though paper is flimsy, it becomes sturdier in the form of a ball.
How can a sheet of paper become an unaccountably tough projectile simply by the act of crushing? The answer might seem simple, but it turned out that finding a sound explanation required complex instruments and a lot of brain power. Now, though, Cambou and Menon, physicists at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst, have come up with some unexpected answers.
There is something of a niche research field in paper folding. One of its original defining experiments was testing the assertion that it is only possible to fold a sheet of paper seven times. This was shown to be false on the Discovery Channel programme Mythbusters (episode 72, first aired in 2007). The actual number turned out to be 11, though getting to that required a steamroller and a very thin grade of paper akin to parachute material. The dimensions of the folding material were also on a huge scale – the size of a football pitch. In the context of the office, however, the seven folds assertion stands, unbusted.
Another aspect of paper folding is that it is highly unpredictable. If you place a sheet of paper over a coffee cup and poke it down into a cone, it can fold in myriad ways. Researchers were eventually able to mathematically predict how a given sheet of paper would fold in this situation (Nature, vol 401, p 46).
One property of crumpled paper remained, though, resisting all forms of analysis. No matter how tightly you crumple paper into a ball, you'll be hard-pressed to come up with a structure composed of less than about 90 per cent air. "It's technically possible to compress them further," says Cambou, "but that will take a lot more force because the crumpled sheet increasingly opposes the external force as it's crushed." Menon and Cambou wanted to know why.
Despite their insubstantial constitution, wadded paper balls are capable of feats of considerable strength. They are the ultimate packing material, for instance, able to support and cushion objects far heavier than themselves. That's unexpected, given their lack of internal buttressing. A house, by contrast, has supporting structures such as beams built into the architecture to explain why it is so rigid. "This is not stiffness you have designed into the ball," says Menon. "You've just crushed it."
Considering that lack of uniform structure, a ball's stiffness is also surprisingly consistent throughout, even though no two are likely to have the same configuration of folds inside. Each crumpled ball may even be unique, though researchers have not yet examined them in sufficient numbers to determine whether they can be compared on the lines of snowflakes, fingerprints and dust particles (see "A library that's deliberately gathering dust"). Furthermore, numbers aren't the only barrier to understanding paper balls.
"Each crumpled ball may even be unique on the lines of snowflakes, fingerprints and dust particles"
Despite technological advances, it is still extremely difficult to peer inside a simple scrunched-up paper ball with any detail. Computer science hasn't been much help. It has been impossible to pinpoint the physics involved because even the most sophisticated hardware and software fail when trying to recreate the sheer complexity involved. There are simply too many variables.
Neither is it possible to make a paper ball and then reverse engineer the structure from reading the patterned wrinkles in the unfurled paper. Various groups have analysed such patterns and been driven to frustration.
"You can ask very simple questions that have surprisingly complex answers," says Menon. He had hoped some kind of 3D imager would do the trick. For example, an X-ray tomography machine – a piece of kit normally used to hunt for tumours or to look inside delicate artefacts of archaeological digs – bounces X-rays off the internal surfaces of an object to create thousands of 2D cross-sections that can be reassembled into a 3D image.
There was just one tricky problem, which is that X-rays sail right through paper. Menon and Cambou realised that they could get what they wanted with a different material that comes in sheets: aluminium foil. Their plan worked, and they created the world's first image of the internal geometry of a crumpled-up sheet.
The image yielded answers immediately. The first thing the researchers noticed were the ridges throughout the insides of the ball. They are the paper's strongest points, and what fortifies them is a quality that you might not expect from paper.
It might rip easily, but it is very robust in one particular way, says Tom Witten, a solid-state physicist at the University of Chicago. To demonstrate, he picks up a flat piece of paper and tries to stretch it until it rips. It is really difficult to do.
This is tensile strength. It also manifests when you fold paper and thereby impart tension at the resulting crease. Like these creases, the ridges inside the paper ball hold the energy you imparted by folding the paper. They are also the reason that a paper ball cannot be compressed beyond around 90 per cent air without superhuman effort. Through a combination of the rigidity of the ridges and the energy they concentrate, they prop up the structure as well as any deliberate design.
This wasn't an entirely unexpected finding, but the second thing the 3D images revealed was. You might imagine ridges would arrange themselves randomly inside the balls, but the reality is very different. Weirdly, the interior of the ball was a series of orderly layers.
The strengthening effects of these layers recalls the difficulty of folding paper more than seven times. The first fold is easy, but by the fifth time you find yourself exerting a fair degree of force. In fact, the force required is proportional to the cube of the number of sheets. "So if you have five things stacked, you've increased the strength 125 times," says Menon. Crumpled paper follows a similar power law. The layers inside act like folds: not only is the paper ball harder to deform, the layers trap air, which according to Cambou, could be one more variable that adds to the structure's strength. As a result, the multilayered walls acted as structural pillars (Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, vol 108, p 14741).
The wrinkly balls did not yield all of their mysteries. It remains unclear, for example, why paper balls make such a good packing material; after all, by themselves, neither air nor sheets of paper provide anything like adequate cushioning. Menon thinks the key is their ability to absorb the vibrations that pass through them.
Do the balls absorb vibrations by trapping pressure waves or by dissipating them? Nobody knows, says Menon, "but it means there are still plenty of beautiful problems to keep me interested".
festive science
Magazine issue 2844 , published 24 December 2011
Level-up life: how gaming can enhance your reality
The hard way: Our odd desire to do it ourselves


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'Extratainment' For Everyone on DStv Yanga and Confam
Follow @eventlabgh < DStv Yanga and Confam is your first choice for all the extra entertainment you want! For only...
By Eventlabgh , in Celebrity Entertainment News , at June 17, 2020
DStv Yanga and Confam is your first choice for all the extra entertainment you want!
For only N4,615 DStv Confam will offer customers a full dose of family time entertainment with channels like Da Vinci for the kids, TNT, SuperSport 7, 8, and more. If you think DStv Yanga is for you, then pay N2,565 and get blown away with channels like Africa Magic Epic, ROK2, MTV Base and SuperSport 10 and so much more.
Let's show just how much more is in store on both the DStv and Yanga packages:
With the kids' being home, it's highly recommended that they are kept busy and continue learning. ULesson is an intensive study programme which offers students in SS1, SS2 and SS3 a holistic learning experience in Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics as they prepare for their Senior Secondary School Exams.
Get your kids learning Mondays – Thursdays on Africa Magic Family, Channel 124 at 4:00 PM.
Join the very talented actress, Nse Ikpe Etim as she hosts My Fertility Path, a show that addresses diverse topics surrounding infertility. The intent of the show is to share real stories about infertility, the struggles, and the treatment available.
Don't miss this very informative show every Thursday at 7:00 PM on Ebony Live TV channel 165.
If you followed and enjoyed The Way To Paradise season 1, then you are in for a treat as season 2 is already in its 3rd episode. The new season revolves around Catalina Santana, who becomes an undercover agent of the DEA and changes her name to Virginia Fernández after pretending to be dead for 20 years. Catalina returns to Colombia to protect her family from Las Diablas, but her return will only cause pain, disappointment, and tragedy for her mother. New and exciting episodes weekdays at 9:00 PM on Telemundo channel 118.
Age Is Just A Number is another romantic series on Zee World, Channel 166. It explores the romantic tale between Sahil, a 24-year-old, from a very rich family and Veedika, a 42-year-old widow. They continue to face family and societal opposition who frown at their relationship.
We simply have to find out if their love makes way to happiness and acceptance, showing weekdays at 6:00 PM.
At DStv, there is never a dull moment and always something for everyone.
Customers who are always on the move can enjoy entertainment on the go with DStv Now, and not miss a thing. Simply download the DStv Now app, log in the necessary details and off you are to thrilling great shows.
To enjoy more local and international offers on Confam and Yanga packages, visit the website or download the MyDStv app from the iOS and Android stores for more information and self-service options.
You can also pay for your DStv subscription using – MyDStv, USSD CODE (*288#), DStv Whatsapp (09082368533), PAGA, Quickteller, Automated Teller Machines, and Bank Apps.
This post first appeared on www.234star.com
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redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


TSK develops and sells test systems and adaptation units for testing wire harnesses and further electricalelectronic assemblies and components. TSK products are used predominantly in the automotive supplier industry and wherever the functionality of complex assemblies needs to be tested in order to recognize errors within the manufacturing process at an early stage.
TSK has decades of experience in quality assurance in wire assembly. The company was founded in 1983 by Helmut Kahl as Test Systeme Kahl, or TSK for short, and has its headquarters in Porta Westfalica, Germany. The TSK Group manufactures in Europe, North and South America, Africa, and Asia. It has been part of the Komax Group since 2012.


Shipping Motorcycle To or From Lake Mary | A-1 Auto Transport, Inc.
There are some circumstances that may arise and make it highly necessary to transport a bike. While it may be possible for you to transport a bike using your own means, this may be a hard task. Therefore, it is advisable to hire motorcycle shipping services. This is because having a mover handling your bike gives you peace of mind that the bike will be safe and that the delivery will be done in a reliable manner. The mover will also free you up so that you may handle other tasks. You also get to enjoy extra convenience since they offer services such as storage and insurance coverage.
Air transport, which is the fastest means of transportation and the bike is delivered reliably to various destinations in record time.
Water transport, which is a reliable way to transport bikes to various overseas locations. However, it is slower and less costly compared to air transport.
Rail transport, which is a convenient method of in-land transportation. It is better than road transport because there are minimal delays since there is no congestion encountered while the train is on the move.
Road transport, which is a common method of transportation used to transport bikes to various addresses.
A motorcycle is to be prepared before it is shipped so as to ensure that it is in good condition and that the occurrence of any accidents will be minimized. The activities included in the preparation of a bike include checking the fluid levels, the engine and the tire pressure. You should also remove all of your belongings and motorcycle accessories from the bike. It is also required that you ensure that the gas is at a maximum level of ¼ of the tank. If the bike needs any fixing to be done, get a professional to work on it. You should also clean the bike and inspect it thoroughly. It is highly recommended that you take photos of it from different angles.
There are various factors that you should take into account when searching for a mover. These include the experience and knowledge related to motorcycle shipping that the company has. You should also find out if they are licensed, bonded and insured. It is also good to check if they are trustworthy by confirming if they are approved by the Better Business Bureau and also checking out the ratings and reviews shared by their current or past clients.
We have the ability to ensure that your bike will not only be delivered in good time but also in perfect condition. Our team knows how to provide good motorcycle care and our drivers also pass through the shortest and least congested routes in an effort to reduce the transit time and minimize the fuel cost.
We are registered under both the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and the United States Department of Transportation, giving you the assurance that we meet the standards required of a shipping company. We are capable of providing tailored solutions which meet specific needs such as transporting a bike in good time for you to enjoy a biking event or adventure and also handling classic bikes, ensuring that their integrity will be maintained. When you ship with us, you will have a hassle-free experience. You can call us on a toll-free number and you will also have the chance to easily monitor the status of your delivery using real-time tracking information.
Open-air motorcycle transport: This is affordable, making it a popular option among many. However, since the bike will be exposed, it is a less secure shipping option.
Crated motorcycle transport: The bike is meant to be prepared following the set requirements and it is then put in a wooden crate.
Enclosed motorcycle transport: This option is very secure and it ensures that the bike will arrive in perfect condition.
Motorcycle storage services: In case you need your bike to be stored for a certain period of time, we can do this for you.
Insurance coverage: Since it is good to be prepared in case the unforeseen events happen, we have a comprehensive insurance cover in place to cater for the arising situations that come about due to the occurrence of various perils.
Make the decision to move your motorcycle with us and you shall not regret this. You can call us on 1-800-452-2880 so as to get started.


Two years ago, I ran a fall article series on homemade gifts, which I then gave out to relatives that Christmas.
Naturally, some of the gifts were bigger hits than others. After the series was over, I gave some thought as to the amount of effort I put into the gifts in exchange for how happy they made the recipient, and I came to the conclusion that six of the items would be worth doing again with respect to the effort involved and how much people enjoyed them. Here are these six gifts.
If you start on Thanksgiving weekend, you can make all of these before Christmas.
These photo cubes still adorn the homes of the people we gave them to.
The process was pretty straightforward. We went to a local lumberyard and had them cut a 4×4 board (which actually measures about 3.5″ by 3.5″) into 3.5″ pieces, making several (approximate) cubes. We used sandpaper to smooth the faces a bit and round the corners of the cube.
We then printed out six pictures per cube, cut them into squares, and glued them to the cube faces.
After that, we applied several layers of Mod Podge (a simple-to-apply finish that you can get at many hobby supply stores) to each cube that we made, then applied a final layer of spray sealant to keep the cubes from having a "tacky" feel.
Each cube took perhaps two total hours of effort to complete, with some of that time overlapping if you make multiple cubes.
See the full photo cube post for more details.
These personalized photo cards have been both cherished by the recipient and sent through the mail as note cards.
Again, the process here is simple. Get some completely blank 5″ by 7″ note cards and some construction paper or colored art paper. Cut the paper into 4.5″ by 6.5″ rectangles and affix them to the front of the cards with some form of adhesive (I used double-sided tape with a bit on each corner). Then, get a stack of 4″ by 6″ prints of photos that you like and affix those photos on top of the rectangles (again, with double-sided tape on each corner).
These are fun to wrap as well. We took pieces of tissue paper, folded them nicely around the cards, put a sticker on to hold the tissue paper in place, and used a garment box for the outside covering.
The entire process took perhaps two hours for a batch of 35-40 cards.
Obviously, you can use any type of photography you want. Grandparents might appreciate photos of grandchildren. Others might like nature pictures or cityscapes. You can choose photographs and colors based on what you think the recipient will enjoy.
See the full personalized stationery post for full details.
This was a pet project of Sarah's. We've seen family members wearing the product of these efforts many times. It only took Sarah eight or so hours to finish these, most of which was spent on the couch with a good movie on the television.
Sarah recommends starting with this tutorial to learn how to crochet. If you want to make the exact hat shown in the picture, here's that pattern. There are many scarf patterns and hat patterns freely available online.
All you need is some time, a crochet needle, and some yarn. Sarah estimates that each scarf and hat takes about four hours to make, but she does have at least a little experience crocheting. If you're not familiar with how to crochet, there's no better time to learn.
See the full crocheted hat and scarf post for more details.
We've seen these used as kitchen decorations and also used as meals. We've also heard compliments on how it made a delicious meal or snack for the recipient's families, and they didn't take long to make, either.
There are many meals out there that can be prepared out of mostly dried ingredients – soups, brownie mixes, and so on. You can make a wonderful gift by taking one of your favorite recipes of this type, collecting all of the dry ingredients together, and putting them in a jar, which ideally leaves the recipient only having to add water, stir, and cook.
All you really need is a recipe, the ingredients for that recipe, a glass jar to hold it (with a lid, of course), and perhaps a few additional items for decoration (we used squares of cloth, a ribbon, and some card stock for a handmade tag).
Just add each ingredient to an appropriately sized jar, close the jar up, and decorate it. Be sure to include a note explaining what's in the item and what steps still need to be taken to prepare it as a meal.
See the full meals in a jar post for more details.
Our wine jelly was enjoyed by several different families. I actually ended up passing along this post to several different recipients who wanted to make it themselves. All you need is an afternoon to make quite a few jars.
You don't need much to make these jars. You'll need the usual canning items: a large pot, six jars with lids and rings, and something to pull the jars out with (we bought a plastic "bucket" for fifty cents from a local store that works great). For this jelly, you'll need 3 1/2 cups of wine (this will take a little more than a bottle, but you can use grape juice to make up the difference if you don't want to pop open a second bottle), 1/2 cup of lemon juice, one package of dry pectin, and 4 1/2 cups of sugar.
Just mix together the jelly ingredients in a pot (mix the wine, juice, and pectin first until it's boiling over medium-high heat, then add the sugar slowly while stirring rapidly) and boil for another minute after the sugar is all added. Ladle it into the jars (that have been boiled in water for cleanliness) with half an inch of breathing room on top, close them with the lids, and put the jars into a boiling water bath for five minutes. Let them sit out to cool and you'll have wonderful gifts.
See the full wine jelly post for more details.
If you're going to make this one, you need to start right away, but you only need two of the items to get started: vanilla beans and vodka. The rest can wait. This process makes some of the best vanilla extract you'll ever try.
To package the extract, you'll also need some food-safe bottles, which you can order online at a reasonable price. The ones we used were eight ounce bottles with screw-top lids. We also printed off our own labels, as you can see.
So, how do you make it? The first step is to head to eBay right now and bid on some bulk vanilla pods. Buying them individually is cost prohibitive, but you can get lots of pods at a very cheap price if buying them in bulk. Also, hit your local liquor store and get a bottle or two of inexpensive vodka (you don't need the expensive stuff here).
When you get the beans, slice eight (or so) of the pods lengthwise so the beans are exposed, then drop the whole pods (beans and all) right into the vodka bottle. Close the bottle up, shake it, and store it in a cool dark place. Shake it every day or so.
After three weeks (or longer – I'd wait until the last day or two for this), take out your bottle and filter it using a pair of coffee filters over the top of a jar. Just pour the extract through so that you filter out the beans and any pieces of the pod. Put the extract into the food safe bottles you have, affix the labels, and you have a wonderful homemade gift.
See the homemade vanilla extract post for full details.
Our family and friends loved these gifts and put them to good use over the past two years. Each one can easily be made before Christmas, particularly if you get started this Thanksgiving weekend. Each one is relatively low cost, too, compared to purchasing anything similar, plus these have a wonderful homemade quality about them.


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Five Dates Review
Monday, Dec 14 2020 10:28AM
To say 2020 has been a normal year is a major understatement. It has been anything but normal. A global pandemic and 2 lockdowns are enough to drive anyone crazy. That being said, the medium of video games has come as a welcomed relief to all during these troubled times. Never has the escapism factor been so important. Not just to pass the time, but also for our mental health.
Now it has been a mixed year in regards to gaming. There have been a lot of great releases, however, due to the pandemic there have been a ton of delays, see Cyberpunk 2077 for example.
However, I have never seen a game take the worst of what has been going on in current events and turn it into something enjoyable and a testament to the good that we have been seeing coming out of all this.
Five Dates is the latest interactive movie game to come from studio 'Wales Interactive'. Their previous works include the stellar thriller 'The Bunker', heist thriller 'Late night' and the amazing (and topical) 'The complex', all of which I thoroughly enjoyed.
The initial premise for 'Five Dates' is simple, you (or the character of Vinny) sign up to an online dating app and choose to go on dates with either Maya, Grace, Saffron, Shaina or Paige. Now what makes this game relevant to what is currently going on in the world is that it is set during the first national Lockdown in the United Kingdom.
Once starting a new game you are set the task of setting up Vinny's dating profile. You have the choice of what profile picture to use, his profession, 3 interests and his star sign. Depending on what choices you pick affects the game narratively. For example, if you pick that your profession is in health care, your best friend will commend you for doing an amazing job as a key worker, all your dates will reference this as well.
In terms of gameplay, there are five characters in total to choose from to date, yet you can only choose 3 to pursue. You then go on a series of dates with each character. On your first date you get to know the characters through a choice of dialogue paths, then follow up with a debrief with your best friend/wingman. You are then told to select the 2 you would like to have a second date with and leave one behind. Once the second date is over you then have to make your choice on who you like the most.
This adds so much replay value as you feel the need to find out more about these characters with each playthrough. Once you reach the end you will find yourself in a new game and selecting a different starting 3.
This is what I love about wales Interactive and their games, the replayability and branching narratives. Each playthrough is different, and the characters are so well written and interesting you find yourself connecting with them (as if you know them personally) and wanting to know more about them. I found this when playing 'The Complex'. I replayed it over and over to find each different story path and the same goes for 'Five dates'. There are over 766 scenes to view within this game and I've only viewed 377 during all my playthroughs. So there's your reason for playing it over and over again.
I thoroughly enjoyed this game. Mainly due to its narrative and cast of interesting characters, but also for how it made me feel. It has made the best out of a bad situation. This year has been crazy, there's no denying it. Yet it's a year we're all going to remember for the rest of our lives. Who remembers standing outside your front door clapping for the NHS for all their hard work? This game addresses that directly by including it within a scene. It makes you feel that even though this year hasn't been the best, it's found a way of bringing everyone together.
Now if that's not the message of a good video game, I don't know what is.
Five Dates gets a solid 10/10 and is available on Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Windows PC and Mac for £9.99.
Five Dates is available on PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One and PC
This review is based on the Xbox version of the game and can be purchased here for £9.99.
Enjoy the review? want to read more of our reviews? then click right here to be whisked away to the realm of our opinions.
The feel good factor
Relevant to current events
Strong Narrative
Replay value
Tags Five Dates Game Review Good Gate Media Review Xbox One Wales Interactive
Alex is a Filmmaker and writer with huge respect and passion for video games. His favourite games are Alan Wake, Witcher 3 and The Division 2. He enjoys games with a good story, that can fully immerse you within there world.
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We are not on this side, or that.
"PUT ASIDE PRIVATE & PERSONAL AGENDAS."
Mike Sanderson is one of the world's most respected sailors; he has proved to be a very talented yachtsman in a host of different sailing disciplines; from America's Cup to Volvo Ocean race.
He is also a man with impressive leadership and organisational skills as well as being one of those rare people that nobody says a bad word about.
Mike is now Team Director, for British Challenger Team Origin, so is able to evaluate the present impasse from both a managerial and a sailor's perspective. Tonight, he responded to questions from BYM News.
BYM News: You have been quoted as saying that Team Origin still hopes for a settlement, is that still the case?
Mike Sanderson: TEAMORIGIN and the other challengers, of course, still hope that common sense prevails and that a settlement between the two parties is found. The last thing the challengers want is for a High Court Judge in New York to determine their fate.
Team Origin was very much at the forefront of getting BMW Oracle to compromise and, in particular, to drop its demand for two boat testing. How do you feel about the Spanish & German teams not signing the final GGYC proposal?.
TEAMORIGIN and the other four challengers have worked as a united group in mediating with both sides for many weeks now.
It is important to explain here that when the majority of challengers suggested to GGYC how to modify their settlement offer to Alinghi and then supported the solutions that were in the document last week this wasn't about taking sides. A majority of challengers signed a document to say that they felt that the list of solutions to the points raised by GGYC was agreeable to them. It doesn't say we are now on this side or that. The Challengers together want this settled out of court so that we can race for the America's Cup in 2009.
TEAMORIGIN would have been happier if all the challengers had signed the document but the two teams that didn't have their reasons for not doing so and that is their business to explain.
Do you think that it would have made a difference to Alinghi's decision to reject the proposal, if the challengers had been unanimous in asking for it to be accepted?
I can't answer for Alinghi and I don't want to. All we want is for common sense to prevail and that the two parties look at what incredible progress that has been made over the past few weeks and months and that they put aside their private and personal agendas and do what is best for the teams, the event and ultimately themselves.
Do you think Alinghi would have accepted the proposal in any circumstances?
Again, I can't answer for Alinghi, but it may be that if this list of solutions had been on the table earlier and if BMWORACLE had had a better understanding of one of the fundamental principles of Alinghi's vision of the 33rd America's Cup - one of cost containment - and hence the end of the concept of two boat testing and in-house racing, they could have avoided a complete breakdown in their own negotiations.
Is there anything you can now do that might get this show on the road?
We are, as a group, a bit stuck at the moment having effectively run out of ideas to help make these two organisations come to their senses and settle, but believe me we are always here to help discuss and find solutions. We do not want this to be settled by Justice Cahn. We want the parties themselves to find a solution. They both know that we are here to help if they think we can.
What would you like Alinghi/ACM to do now?
Well that's simple, we'd like them to say: "We will make the adjustments to the rules that GGYC and the majority of the bone fide challengers propose in GGYC's most recent correspondence to us and also confirm that the 33rd America's Cup will take place in 2009 as currently scheduled."
What would you like BMW Oracle to do now?
That is also really simple. We'd like them to say: "We withdraw the case, with immediate effect, and we would like to have the points of our last letter to be discussed, debated and seriously considered at the next Competitors' Commission meeting with all parties involved."


I tend to be very discerning when it comes to facial moisturizers. I have normal to oily skin, so I seek out lotions that are light and not too oily. I also prefer lotions that absorb quickly, so I can wear them under any type of makeup. One product that meets these requirements is Now Solutions' Green Tea & Pomegranate Day Cream.
I love how this lotion hydrates while still feeling very light on the skin. It contains a couple of organic ingredients yet still comes in around $9. The Now product page has a handy store locator for specific products, which is a great feature. However, I only found one store that carried this product near me, and it wasn't very convenient, so I would probably order online for convenience. I was surprised to see that this product rates a 6 on EWG Skin Deep database. Taking a closer look, this is mainly because of Vitamin A and how the "natural pomegranate essence" is classified as a fragrance. The pomegranate essence doesn't seem to deserve that high of a rating, but it may just be one of the EWG's quirks. I suspect the rating, in actuality, should be closer to a 3 or a 4. If you're looking for a light lotion for normal to combination skin, this is a nice, affordable option.
UPDATE: According to a NOW representative, "The scent is a blend of natural eo's & is proprietary to our line." For reference, "eo's" refers to essential oils. Glad to hear it, NOW!


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Published on: "IN Business International"
On completion of his studies at MIT, Boston, where he acquired Bachelors and Masters Degrees in engineering and mathematics, Kambourides knew that, despite his love of science, he would be entering the investment and business fund sector: "I was convinced it would be the next big challenge", he told IN Business International.
He first joined Goldman Sachs, working on its Whitehall Fund, before having the good luck (as he calls it) to be employed by George Soros, along with three others, in launching Soros Real Estate Partners. "He then gave us $200 million and we raised $800 million more, which we then invested successfully around the globe", he says.
It was while looking at Athens that Kambourides realised that the property sector, and particularly residential real estate, was unexploited in comparison with what was happening in other Mediterranean countries such as Spain and Portugal.
"I decided to leave Soros and, along with Pierre Charalambides, founded Dolphin Capital Partners in 2004 and Dolphin Capital Investors in 2005", he recalls.
Most Cypriot enterpreneurs first head about their remarkable young compatriot in 2007, following Dolphin's acquisition of one of the island's biggest property companies, Aristo Developers. The €289 million deal, which constituted the biggest-ever acquisition of a public company for cash in Cyprus, enhanced Kambourides' reputation as one of the most prominent figures in the global property sector. Property Week magazine ranks him sixth on the list of the 100 rising stars under 35 who are expected to dominate the global property market in the next five years. This distinction comes as recognition for the work of Dolphin, says Kambourides, noting that the acquisition of Aristo Developers was significant for the company since it came with many years of precious expertise and experience.
Kambourides has become something of a hero to the vast majority of young enterpreneurs, especially for those in the property sector, but he has heroes of his own. He points to Wesley Edens, founder and CEO of the Fortress Investment Group, one of the most successful investment groups worldwide.
"He started from scratch many years ago and, through hard work, he has achieved excellent things. His friendship and support for Dolphin have been invaluable", he says.
Outside the realm of business, Miltos Kambourides admires his own parents who, he says, taught him the art of thinking freely and sensibly. This, together with hard work and a good education, is what he sees as the key to his success. "I never wanted to lean on others or to rely on luck. I decided when I was just a child that I would invest in myself, use my own abilities. Two aspects of my character that have helped me to succeed are being organised and having ambition".
One unexpected development in the Kambourides story was when he became hugely famous in Greece, but not due to his business acumen. The media frenzy was all because of his marriage to the "love of his life" Marina, the daughter of Greek enterpreneur George Vernicos. The couple have two children.
Source: "IN Business International"
Dolphin to swap assets for shares


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Art and place in Hobart
Louise Martin-Chew June 11, 2012 Blog
Art has lifted its profile in Hobart since the opening of David Walsh's Museum of Old and New Art. As a direct result of his investment in a purpose-built underground gallery, the public may view his eccentric private collection. In addition to this, the creation of a series of pavilion style apartments (named after Australian architects and artists) that overlook the broad reach of the Derwent River to accommodate visitors, an existing winery, then the addition of two wine bars (above and below the ground), cafes, and a restaurant that enhance the experience of gallery visitors, he has developed a facility that attracts people from very far away on its own terms. It is place-making at its best, with quality of every experience on a par with international art attractions such as Japan's Naoshima art island.
However it doesn't mean that you'll love all that you see. Contemporary art should be polarising, stretching, which is what I told myself as my stomach heaved when confronted with Wim Delvoye's Cloaca Professional (2010). The cold hits you with the smell, reinforced by the visceral brown aesthetic produced by "vacuum-packed bags of shit". This is only one small element of a collection arrayed over three levels, drilled into rock walls like an archaeological dig. Sex and death (and Egyptology) are the overriding themes of Walsh's collection, but the journey in between isn't ignored. At MONA you have the opportunity to view your own bottom (for many of us a unique experience), but it's not all about the visitor. In fact mostly it's about Walsh – as is fitting with a private collection, there is a lot of memoir in the art. (His opening statement in the introduction to Monanisms, MONA, 2010, reads, "My name is David and I'm an arseholic.") Within the viewing technology, the iPod device known as "the O", the compelling facility is "Gonzo" – anecdotal musings, circumstantial discussion of the art and artists that describe how and why a particular object may have been acquired, speculation about its meaning, down to discussions at the pub between Walsh and curator Elizabeth Mead.
It's refreshing to experience the how and why rather than the what, although that is available as well, under the header "Art Wank". A collection may be seen as a record of personal interests – in this case we have access to a whole lot of information about what interests Walsh. Most of us find other people – as much as ideas and academic fashions – interesting, so this style of delivery, that offers humour and often trivial information about (mostly his) life experience, engaging.
On a different and intimate scale is Hobart's Islington Hotel, but art is an integral part of place-making in this facility too. A boutique hotel, it offers contemporary art in living areas and rooms – guests may take tea, drink wine, or sit amongst a diverse collection of paintings, sculpture and ceramics in a heritage building. The conservatory that serves breakfast and dinner includes a quirky sculpture by Bill Yaxley, juxtaposed with historic sandstone. Given the high quality food and wine that seems an integral part of the Tasmanian experience, and the compelling art experiences developed by individuals, it makes Hobart an inspiring example of the power of one, or two people – willing to share.
Hobart, Islington Hotel, MONA, William Yaxley, Wim Delvoye
Previous QLD Wrap, Issue 60, 2012
Next LINES in the SAND launched in Brisbane


This one day retreat will focus on friendship. Our speaker this year is Pastor Linda Coleman Isaiah, Founder and President of LCI Ministries and creator of the "Unleashed Hope" Women's Conference. We will be meeting at Silver Springs Lodge on Stow Road in Stow, OH. It's going to be a great time of learning, worship, reflection, laughter and conversation. Lunch is included and we will also be working on a service project. Stop by to pick up a brochure or one can be emailed to you. To learn more, contact the church office at 330-688-6935 or office@stowpres.church.


A self-described preppy, Jerod Ray takes pride in not looking like a typical tattoo artist. He is a self-taught tattooist of five years specializing in fine-art quality portrait work. Ray was raised in a large, artistic family that moved frequently and went without electricity or running water at times. Despite facing hardships, Ray's family always encouraged his drawing talent as a child and supported him in pursuing his career. Ray has won many "best portrait" awards at tattoo conventions and he believes his willingness to break the traditional rules of tattooing sets him apart from his competition.


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Q: Basic protection of PHP scripts I'm in the process of learning more PHP. I've not really done any PHP before, only enough for basic emailing on contact forms. In the past when I've made such forms I've occasionally had spam emails come through via that script. From the frequency of the emails and the content it is very much apparent that it isn't someone coming on the website and spamming via the form but rather they know the url of the php file and are submitting data to it via that in some way; what is the best way to prevent this sort of thing happening.

A: If you're in your very early stages of PHP (or programming in general) I would recommend that you create an input in your form which you hide or move off screen using css.
This would mean that no real user would fill this, but when when a bots comes to your page and submit the form, they would fill it in with some garbage data.
In your php code handling the submission, simply check to see if this field has been submitted or not. If it has then you know it was not a real person, so discard the submission and do not proceed further with sending the email.
Note: I'm only recommending the approach above for learning purposes and for tiny projects that are not really in production use. If you need a more robust solution, then look into some sort of capcha solution or some javascript that adds some csrf type of checks to your form.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


John and Tessa had a Hard Days Night Hotel wedding in the centre of Liverpool. This hotel is stunning and situated at the top of Matthew Street and right in the heart of Beatle Mania. John is a huge Lennon fan so this venue was everything to him and it really was everything he hoped for. You can't turn a corner in this hotel without seeing a picture of one of the fab four.
After the ceremony we took a stroll down Matthew Street to see the John Lennon and Cilla Black statues. This was a Saturday afternoon mid summer and as you can imagine it was heaving. John and Tessa were made to feel like celebrities though as hen parties etc all looked on and cheered the couple as they walked down Matthew Street.
It was an incredible day for an incredible couple. Huge congratulations guys.
The girls all got ready in the Paul McCartney suite which is an incredible room with a balcony overlooking the city.
The ceremony took place down stairs in the function room. The room is full of pictures of The Beatles and a really interesting room to have your ceremony in.
For the portraits we went down Matthew Street and to the world famous Cavern Club. After this we jumped in a black cab and headed down to the front as Tessa and John really wanted a shot with the iconic Liver Building in the background.
After the meal and speeches we had access to the John Lennon suite which is something else. In the corner sits a white baby grand piano and John couldn't wait to get his hands on it to play Lennon's famous song 'Imagine'. This room has had the likes of Justin Bieber, Liam Gallagher and many other famous names stay there. It's another room with a stunning balcony and beautiful decorations.
After the first dance, the party was in full swing and everyone had an incredible night. Live music by Wirral band Munch had everyone dancing.
If visiting Liverpool and going to The Hard Days Night Hotel we strongly advice you visit Matthew Street and go to the world famous Cavern Club. Matthew Street itself is a fantastic day or night out with live entertainment in almost every bar. Now because parking can be a nightmare in the centre of town, we recommend the train to Lime Street Station or park in one of the Liverpool 1 carparks and then walk across.
If you are interested in a 'Hard Days Night Hotel' wedding or just want to find out more, then head over to the Hard Days Night website. If you have already booked and would like to check our availability, complete the short form on our contact page.


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编辑履约险

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            <legend class="scheduler-border">保险信息</legend>

                        保险公司:

                                <select  class="form-control" id="busiCompanyId" ng-model="applyVo.insCompanyId"
                                         ng-options="item.id as item.name for item in insuranceCompanyList" required>
                                    <option value="">请选择保险公司</option>
                                </select>

                            查询

                        保单号:

                            <input type="text" id="busiPolicyNo" class="form-control" ng-model="applyVo.insPolicyNo" required>

                        保险金额:

                            <input type="number" step="0.01" id="busiAmount" class="form-control"   ng-model="applyVo.insAmount" required>

                        保险开始日期:

                                <input type="text" id="busiStartDate" class="form-control" uib-datepicker-popup  is-open="applyVo.isopenBusiStartDate" ng-model="applyVo.insStartDate" required>

                                            <button type="button" class="form-control btn btn-default"  ng-click="applyVo.isopenBusiStartDate=!applyVo.isopenBusiStartDate" ></button>

                        保险结束日期:

                                <input type="text" id="busiEndDate" class="form-control" uib-datepicker-popup   is-open="applyVo.isopenBusiEndDate" ng-model="applyVo.insEndDate" required>

                                            <button type="button" class="form-control btn btn-default"  ng-click="applyVo.isopenBusiEndDate=!applyVo.isopenBusiEndDate" ></button>

        </fieldset>

        <button class="btn btn-success" type="button" ng-disabled="form.$invalid" ng-click="ok()">提交</button>
        <button class="btn btn-danger btn-modal-left"  type="button" ng-click="delete()">删除</button>
        <button class="btn btn-default" type="button" ng-click="cancel()">关闭</button>

</form>

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


Lee county, Auburn Road to Bishops Bridge section whitewater kayaking, rafting, and paddling information.
the page with more info on that.
A short journey to Great Falls is always worthwhile, and Little Uchee is a place with many visitors from Salem. Little Uchee is a wet place that gets much rain. Most of the rain falls during March, and the driest of the months is October. The warmest time of the year brings highs in the 90's to Little Uchee, and through summer nights temperatures are in the 60's. For the duration of the winter highs are in the 50's with temperatures at Little Uchee dipping down into the 30's all through winter nights.
These outdoors activities are available near Little Uchee.


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An Act To Require Public Transit To Be Accessible
An Act To Require Public Transit To Be Accessible to Riders who are Blind or Visually Impaired
Public Hearings: Thursday, May 2, 2019 1:00 PM, State House, Room 126 for LD 1166
This bill requires that all state and municipal vehicles that operate on a fixed route system for the purpose of public transportation must be equipped with an automated announcement system that delivers audible messages to passengers regarding transit route, current and next stop and destination of the vehicle. The bill provides an exemption for vehicles that cannot reasonably be equipped with an automated announcement system.
Sec. 1. 23 MRSA §4209-B is enacted to read: § 4209-B. Automated announcements
1. Definitions. As used in this section, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings.
A. "Fixed route system" means a transit route that has a predetermined schedule of stops and destinations.
B. "Public transportation" means a service operated for the purpose of transporting members of the public as passengers from one destination to another.
2. Automated announcement systems required. Except as provided in subsection 3, all state and municipal vehicles that operate on a fixed route system for the purpose of public transportation must be equipped with an automated announcement system that delivers audible messages to passengers. An automated announcement system must:
A. Deliver clear messages in the form of recorded, synthesized or digitized speech;
B. Deliver an audible message outside the vehicle at each stop communicating the applicable transit route, destination of the vehicle and the current stop; and
C. Deliver an audible message inside the vehicle prior to each stop communicating the applicable transit route, destination of the vehicle and the next stop.
3. Vehicles exempt. Vehicles that cannot reasonably be equipped with an automated announcement system as determined by the Department of Transportation by rule are exempt from the requirements of subsection 2.
Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2-A.
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Honzokaku Natural Remedies Center has started as a holistic healing clinic, named originally as Kasuga Honzokaku, in March 1610, in Niigata prefecture in Japan. Then in 1900, combined with modern Western medicine, it was renamed as Honzokaku Natural Remedies Center. The combination of medical knowledge of the east and the west has helped cure various illnesses. In 1979, Ken Kobayashi, the successor and the master healer, opened his office in Manhattan, NY. Natural Remedies Center specializes in teaching how you can cure sickness and uncomfortable, day-to-day imbalances while encouraging self-healing. Based on our philosophy, we recommend you medicinal herbs, good diet, along with good habits to adopt.
Our method is to seek the true, underlying causes of the symptoms and treat both causes and symptoms, not just controlling symptoms. Mostly, there is no side effect from this healing process. However, sometimes when patients have a large amount of toxins in the body, some discomfort can be expected as detoxification processes occur. We are here to guide you and help you go through your healing process with a minimum of discomfort.


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Topic: Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark
The Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark Book Series
The Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark book series is a 3-volume collection of short scary stories for kids, originally published between 1981 to 1991. They consisted of Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark (1981), More Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark (1984), and Scary Stories 3: More Tales to Chill Your Bones (1991).
I made a documentary about the Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark books. And so arguably no one has spent more time thinking about them, from the folklore tales to the ghastly illustrations they are known for.
The books consisted of approximately 82 stories and songs. Below are listed each of them. And below that you can find a growing list of articles, diving deeper into the stories and the art. After spending years compiling research and interviews into a documentary, I decided there was a lot more to say. So over time I am taking all the wonderful and intriguing source material discoveries, social commentary, folk tale tidbits and artistic oddities I found and outlining them on Scary Studies. Right here.
Courtesy HarperCollins
I would be remise if I did not also mention the long history of censorship of these books. The American Library Association began creating a list of banned books in the 1980s and 90s, with the first decade-long list compiled for the 1990s. And the Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark books were #1 on that list. Despite being older books with no new ones since 1991, the books have stayed an interesting example of censorship in schools and libraries.
The Big Toe, The Walk, "What Do You Come For?", Me Tie Dough-ty Walker!, A Man Who Lived in Leeds, Old Woman All Skin and Bone, The Thing, Cold as Clay, The White Wolf, The Haunted House, The Guests, The Hearse Song, The Girl Who Stood on a Grave, A New Horse, Alligators, Room for One More, The Wendigo, The Dead Man's Brains, "May I Carry Your Basket?", The Hook, The White Satin Evening Gown, High Beams, The Babysitter, The Viper, The Attic, The Slithery-Dee, Aaron Kelly's Bones, Wait til Martin Comes, The Ghost with the Bloody Fingers
More Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark (1984)
Something was Wrong, The Wreck, One Sunday Morning, Sounds, A Weird Blue Light, Somebody Fell From Aloft, The Little Black Dog, Clinkity-Clink, The Bride, Rings on Her Fingers, The Drum, The Window, Wonderful Sausage, The Cat's Paw, The Voice, "Oh, Susannah!", The Man in the Middle, Cat in a Shopping Bag, The Bed by the Window, The Dead Man's Hand, A Ghost in the Mirror, The Curse, The Church, The Bad News, Cemetery Soup, The Brown Suit, BA-ROOOM!, Thumpity-Thump
Scary Stories 3: More Tales to Chill Your Bones (1991)
The Appointment, The Bus Stop, Faster and Faster, Just Delicious, Hello Kate!, The Black Dog, Footsteps, Like Cat's Eyes, Bess, Harold, The Dead Hand, Such Things Happen, The Wolf Girl, The Dream, Sam's New Pet, Maybe You Will Remember, The Red Spot, No Thanks, The Trouble, Strangers, The Hog, Is Something Wrong?, It's Him!, T-H-U-P-P-P-P-P-P-P!, You May Be Next…
WATCH THE DOCUMENTARY
By Cody Meirick November 3, 2022 0
By Cody Meirick August 11, 2022 1
Harold from Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark: The Story and Origins Behind the Killer Tale
By Cody Meirick July 5, 2022 0
High Beams and the Killer in the Backseat: The Story, Origins, and Meaning
By Cody Meirick May 24, 2022 1
The Big Toe – The Classic Story's Origin, History, and Meanings
By Cody Meirick April 4, 2022 0
The Story Behind The Pale Lady from Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark
By Cody Meirick March 9, 2022 2
Me Tie Doughty Walker! Origins and Meaning Behind the Scary Story
By Cody Meirick February 18, 2022 0
Origins and Meaning of The Red Spot from the Scary Stories Books
Origins of The Haunted House and THAT Picture from Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark
By Cody Meirick September 3, 2021 0
The Story of the Vindow Viper, The Famous (Funny) Campfire Tale


No surprise here: A tough, sweaty workout is great for you. But easy exercise may actually offer more bang for your burn.
A new study clears up a long-standing myth about kitchen and bathroom hygiene: that the water must be hot to work.
Chris Linaman survived a severe infection of the bacteria MRSA, which occurs most frequently in healthcare settings. This is his story.
Does exercise turn you off? A simple shift in mindset can make you happier and healthier, experts say.
Fathers use different language and behaviors when parenting daughters than sons, new research shows.
No more meal math: Eating high-quality foods—including plenty of fat—is the new golden rule of healthy eating.
A new study adds to warnings about exposure of phthalates, which are found in household items including shampoos, perfumes, nail polish, plastic toys, house building materials and more.
The teen birth rate hits a historic low, while the rate of older moms rises, according to new government data.


I recently experienced this firsthand. In December, I struggled with homesickness, wished I could be back in the U.S. to support family during a difficult season, and was disappointed to cancel a much-needed getaway. Our house's batteries needed replacing, which led to daily stress about whether to turn on the generator or wait for city power, and the car I normally drive was out of commission all month. Then in January, we dealt with the insecurity of repeat intruders on our MAF neighbor's property (while they were on furlough) and a close friend of mine narrowly escaping an attempted kidnapping (she was shot in the leg as she escaped).
I would be lying if I said that some nights, as I lay awake listening to the neighborhood dogs bark (again), and wondered if I should get up and shine the flashlight on the neighbor's property (again), I wasn't tempted to buy a one-way plane ticket back home. If this is what life was going to be like in Haiti, I didn't know if I wanted to stay.
But that's when my team stepped in! Friends took me out to coffee and offered babysitting. Some teammates fixed my car and another facilitated a short trip out of the city (to an orphanage we fly for often—a great reminder of why we're here!). Our program manager approved new batteries for our house, and a VP back at MAF's headquarters authorized a brief out-of-country trip so I could process the trauma of my friend being shot. Emails poured in from our ministry partnership team, buoying my spirits and girding my faith in our continued calling here in Haiti.
While it's not always easy here, I know I'm where God wants me to be and have no plans to leave anytime soon—thanks in large part to my team, both here in Haiti and back in the United States!
It does indeed take a team, and I am very grateful for the support you've received during a rough time. We have often been thankful for the MAF team, for the sense that we are not alone. God bless!


Last week I had the opportunity to attend a club meeting in Vale, along with the District Governor. I was really impressed with all the fund raising activities the Vale Lions do to generate money to help dozens of projects and organizations in their community. You'll see more about that in the next issue of the newsletter.
The District Governor presents a certificate.


Strima Articles - Sewing machines, ironing, fusing, fashion, clothing.
Do you want to work with us? Have an idea? Fill in & send!
We will examine your application thoroughly and with utmost confidentiality.
Here, you have a possibility to attach additional files.


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BASIC News, Reducing the Role of Tactical Nuclear Weapons in Europe
TacNukes News No. 9
Chris Lindborg Pena on May 15, 2014
This edition of TacNukes News looks at the impact of the Ukraine crisis on the issue, and the U.S. Administration's latest spending requests and plans for modernizing the B61 nuclear bombs.
TacNukes News summarizes recent developments and resources covering tactical nuclear weapons (TNW) in Europe. This newsletter is compiled and distributed by BASIC. As part of a broader joint project on reducing the role of TNW in Europe, BASIC is cooperating with the German Institute for International and Security Affairs (SWP), with funding from the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation.
The current project page is available here on BASIC's website.
The views expressed in the resources and references below do not necessarily reflect those of the project funder or partners.
Click on the sub-heading to jump to the particular section below.
Partner-related resources
NATO and Russia experiences with nuclear transparency and confidence-building measures
Lessons learned from past experiences with transparency and confidence-building measures
Impact of Ukraine crisis further diminishes arms control prospects
High-level transatlantic commission releases recommendations for progress on nuclear arms control
Reinvigorated role for tactical nuclear weapons in allied security considered by some in light of Ukraine crisis
Activists break into Volkel Air Base
Group of parliamentarians send letter to U.S. Congress expressing opposition to B61s in Europe
U.S. Administration increases budget requests for programs related to tactical nuclear weapons in Europe
United States ramps up testing of B61-12
U.S. Air Force head says NATO could compensate if some European allies decide to forego B61 nuclear mission
Chicago Council launches task force to address tactical nuclear weapons
Upcoming PONI debate on role of tactical nuclear weapons in Crimean crisis
SWP background papers for the SWP-BASIC workshop in Berlin – "Non-Strategic Nuclear Weapons in Europe: Transparency, Confidence-Building Measures in Practice", March 27-28, 2014:
NATO and Russia experiences with nuclear transparency and confidence-building measuresKatarzyna Kubiak reviews the history of NATO-Russia developments around transparency measures related specifically to nuclear weapons, including exchanges on terminology, nuclear doctrine and definitions, data and information, and nuclear safety and security. Published April 2014.
Lessons learned from past experiences with transparency and confidence-building measuresMax Mutschler reviews nuclear, biological, and conventional arrangements in an effort to glean lessons for the debate about potential nuclear weapons-related transparency and confidence-building measures (TCBMs) in the NATO-Russia context. Published April 2014.
1.) Impact of Ukraine crisis further diminishes arms control prospects
The Ukraine crisis seems to have dashed what remaining hope there had been for Russia and NATO to make progress on confidence-building measures around tactical nuclear weapons in the near-term. Many European security experts were agreeing that the situation appeared bleak given the further damaged relations between key NATO capitals and Moscow over Ukraine – a non-NATO member that borders NATO countries and Russia (GSN, 3/24).
NATO Secretary-General Anders Fogh Rasmussen said while in Washington earlier this Spring that he "cannot exclude that the events we have witnessed in Crimea will also have an impact on the thinking about arms control, including nuclear policies" (Brookings, 3/19). While admitting that the Ukraine crisis will further dampen arms control prospects for the foreseeable future, former U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine Steven Pifer has pointed to the value of existing agreements (such as the New START treaty on strategic arsenals), saying that they place "important bounds on an increasingly confrontational U.S.-Russian relationship" (The National Interest/Brookings, 4/10).
Under-secretary of State for Arms Control Rose Gottemoeller delivered the United States' opening statement at the NPT Preparatory Committee Meeting in New York on April 29. She referred to the U.S. position on nuclear negotiations with Russia:
The United States remains open to negotiate further reductions with Russia in all categories of nuclear weapons – including strategic and non-strategic nuclear weapons, deployed and non-deployed.
Recent actions have significantly undermined mutual trust and that trust will take time to rebuild. Still, no one should forget that even in the darkest days of the Cold War, the United States and the Soviet Union found it in our mutual interest to work together on reducing the nuclear threat.
Russia did not comment on the non-strategic nuclear issue in its opening statement.
On May 5, Moscow suspended mutual military inspections with Lithuania (Reuters, May 5). The 2001 agreement allowed Lithuania to inspect Russian military in Kaliningrad, a Russian "exclave" between NATO members Lithuania and Poland. Kaliningrad has occasionally been cited as a possible location for Russian deployment of nuclear-capable Iskander tactical missiles, a controversy which resurfaced last December (GSN, 12/19/13).
2.) High-level transatlantic commission releases recommendations for progress on nuclear arms control
The Deep Cuts Commission released its first report in April: "Options for Enhancing Euro-Atlantic and International Security". The report was written before the escalation of the crisis in Ukraine. Specifically on the issue of tactical nuclear weapons (in Chapter 3 of the report), the group of experts and former officials called for a number of steps to make progress, including:
Reconfirming Russia and U.S. commitment to the 1991 and 1992 Presidential Nuclear Inititiives (PNIs) -"undertaking confidence-building measures such as exchanging data on the total number of nuclear warheads destroyed over the past twenty years, and conducting site visits to former but now empty storage facilities".
Resuming Russian-U.S. nuclear expert dialogue "to develop non-intrusive measures to provide for verifiable and irreversible elimination of nuclear weapons".
Formulating "a coherent NATO policy on the role of TNWs in Europe and terms for their withdrawal"- an effort which the Commission said should be led by Germany within NATO.
The full report is available on the Commission's website.
Russia and the INF Treaty (Blog and comments cover range of arms control issues beyond INF Treaty.)
Jeffrey Lewis, Arms Control Wonk, April 28, 2014.
Challenges to Further Nuclear Arms Reductions
Brookings Institution event audio
Moderated by Steven Pifer, with panelists Nikolai Sokov, Dennis Gormley, Götz Neuneck, in Washington, DC, April 4, 2014.
World leaders fear Ukraine crisis will harm nuclear cooperation
Julian Borger, The Guardian, March 23, 2014
Arms Control in Times of Global Change, Chapter 1 in The Future of Arms Control
Edited by the Heinrich Böll Foundation, in cooperation with Anne Finger and the Institute for Peace Research and Security Policy at the University of Hamburg (IFSH), March 2014.
1.) Reinvigorated role for tactical nuclear weapons in allied security considered by some in light of Ukraine crisis
Authors of a report for the Center for European Policy Analysis called on NATO to consider moving tactical nuclear weapons into eastern European member states as part of a package of measures to bolster Eastern European allied security in light of recent developments around Ukraine (CEPA Report, 3/25). Elizabeth Braw of Newsweek (4/15) interviewed several current and former officials from Central and Eastern European NATO countries who asserted that the crisis has strengthened the justification for retaining U.S. nuclear weapons in Europe. (Although not specifically on the nuclear issue, U.S. Air Force General Philip Breedlove, head of U.S. European Command and Supreme Allied Commander Europe, had said recently that, in light of the crisis in Ukraine and tensions with Russia, NATO political leaders would need to consider the "positioning" of forces to reassure Eastern European allies (Military Times, 5/09). U.S. troops have been deployed in small numbers to Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland (Army Times, 4/22). The Czech Republic's defense minister, however, said his country would not seek to host foreign NATO troops (Reuters, 5/12).
Former Warsaw Pact States Value U.S. Nuclear Arms as Deterrent to Russia
Global Security Newswire, April 15, 2014
2.) Activists break into Volkel Air Base
On March 18, activists from the group "Disarm" broke into Volkel Air Base in The Netherlands, where U.S. B61 nuclear bombs are thought to be stored (Bloomberg, 3/18; GSN, 3/25) . The activists took a photo of a bunker that they thought housed B61 bombs, and called on President Barack Obama to take the bombs "back to the U.S.A." when he visited the country for the Nuclear Security Summit that was held on March 24 and 25 (NoNukes.nl, 3/21).
3.) Group of parliamentarians send letter to U.S. Congress expressing opposition to B61s in Europe
On May 6, 136 parliamentarians from several B61 host countries and European Parliament, sent a letter to members of the U.S. House and Senate to express their opposition to continuing to base the nuclear bombs in Europe and to developing a nuclear capability for F-35 aircraft. For the full letter and list of signatories, see Letter to Congress: 136 NATO Parliamentarians Oppose B61 Nuclear Bomb, Friends Committee on National Legislation website (an initiative of FCNL, International Coalition Against U.S. Nukes in Europe, and PAX).
1.) U.S. Administration increases budget requests for programs related to tactical nuclear weapons in Europe
The Obama Administration issued its Fiscal Year 2015 budget earlier in March. The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) requested $643 million for the B61-12 Life Extension Program, which includes modernizing nuclear weapons for strategic bombers and tactical fighter aircraft (DOE/NNSA, Weapons Activities, Directed Stockpile Work, p. 66). The increase is about 20 percent over FY 2014. The program has encountered skepticism in Congress because of growing cost estimates, which have reached over $10 billion in total according to the Pentagon (Defense News, 11/6/13). For the B61 Tail Kit Assembly (TKA), which is a new feature that will improve the accuracy of the bombs, the Pentagon is requesting $198.4 million, compared with $33 million in FY 2014. The Air Force says the full TKA project will cost about $1.2 billion (DOD Overview, p. 21). The Defense Department requested $15.6 million for developing nuclear capability for the F-35A Joint Strike Fighter (large file: DOD, AF Justification Vol. 3a, p. 231), and $154 million to pursue additional security enhancements for the B61 bombs currently based in Europe (DOD Military Construction Program, p. 6, and Kristensen, 3/11).
B61-12: The New Guided Standoff Nuclear Bomb
Hans M. Kristensen, Presentation for NPT Preparatory Committee Meeting side event in New York, United Nations (event organized by the Nuclear Age Peace Foundation), May 2, 2014
U.S. Nuclear Arms Spending Set to Rise
Tom Z. Collina, Arms Control Today, April 2014
Department of Defense – FY 2015 Budget Request for Replacement Nuclear Delivery Systems and Warhead Life Extension Support
Center for Arms Control and Non-Proliferation Fact Sheet, March 2014
Fiscal Year 2015 Defense Spending Request Briefing Book
Lacie Heeley, Center for Arms Control and Non-Proliferation, March 27, 2014
NATO Nuclear Weapons Security Costs Expected to Double
Hans M. Kristensen, FAS Strategic Security Blog, March 11, 2014
FY 2015 Congressional Budget Request, Volume 1
U.S. Department of Energy, National Nuclear Security Administration, March 2014
Overview – FY 2015 Defense Budget
U.S. Department of Defense, March 2014
Fiscal Year (FY) 2015 Budget Estimates: Air Force, Justification Book Volume 2
Research, Development, Test and Evaluation, Air Force
Fiscal Year (FY) 2015 Budget Estimates: Air Force, Justification Book Volume 3a, Part I [Warning: large PDF file] Research, Development, Test and Evaluation, Air Force
FY 2015 Congressional Budget Request, Federal Salaries and Expenses, Weapons Activities, Defense Nuclear Nonproliferation, Naval Reactors
2.) United States ramps up testing of B61-12
The B61-12, which is different from current B61 variants stationed in Europe in part because it will include the provision of the new "tail kit" (Sandia Labs, 4/14) that is intended to enhance accuracy of the nuclear bomb, underwent its first full-scale wind tunnel test (NNSA, 4/14) in preparation for a series of "drop tests" that will occur this summer. Hans Kristensen of the Federation of American Scientists explains the significance of the new design and findings of the wind tunnel tests (FAS Strategic Security Blog, 4/16). Kristensen also reports that according to the U.S. Air Force budget request for FY 2015, "integration of the B61-12 on NATO F-16 and Tornado aircraft will start in 2015 for completion in 2017 and 2018" (FAS Strategic Security Blog, 3/13).
U.S. Air Force Preps Revamped Nuclear Bomb for Key Tests
The B61 Family of Nuclear Bombs
Hans M. Kristensen and Robert S. Norris, Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, Nuclear Notebook, April 22, 2014
3.) U.S. Air Force head says NATO could compensate if some European allies decide to forego B61 nuclear mission
Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Mark Welsh III testified before the House Armed Services Committee on March 14 -saying that NATO allies "could pick up the load" if certain European countries currently hosting aircraft assigned to the B61 mission decide to forego having their own nuclear aircraft capability in the future (C-SPAN, 3/14). He did not specify which country or countries would compensate, but the United States is known to have this capability (GSN, March 26).
1.) Chicago Council on Global Affairs Convenes Task Force on Reducing Nuclear Weapons in Europe
The Chicago Council is partnering with Global Zero to convene a task force to offer recommendations on reducing tactical nuclear weapons in Europe. The task force aims to make its recommendations in time for the NATO Summit in Wales this September, and plans to issue a report in June. The task force will be headed by former U.S. Secretary of State Madeleine Albright and former UK Foreign Secretary Sir Malcolm Rifkind, facilitated by the direction of Council President Amb. Ivo Daalder (former U.S. Ambassador to NATO) and U.S. Chair of Global Zero Amb. Richard Burt (former U.S. Ambassador to Germany).
Chicago Council on Global Affairs Press Release, March 6, 2014
2.) Upcoming Event
PONI Live Debate: The Role of Tactical Nuclear Weapons in Responding to the Crisis in Crimea
Debate between Peter B. Doran, Director of Research, the Center for European Policy Analysis, and Kingston Reif, Director of Nuclear Non-Proliferation, the Center for Arms Control and Non-Proliferation.
-To be held at CSIS in Washington, DC on May 19, 2014
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Chris Lindborg Pena 2014-05-15T19:44:53+01:00


The north Memphis legend has dropped his newest mixtape Gas Face. 10 tracks bringing dark synth strings over trap with production by Southside, Murda Beatz, and TM88. Some of the beats appeals to more of his mainstream audience instead of his core fan base more use to his native Three 6 Mafia sound.
Army Green & Navy Blue brings Lil Wayne to the forray and Chris Brown lends melodic vocals on the hook with Quavo providing ATL trap on Leanin.
Juicy J brings clout and bravado on Gas Face be sure not to miss this one.


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Kannapuram  is a census town and grama panchayat in Kannur district of North Malabar region in the Indian state of Kerala.

Demographics
As of 2011 Census, Kannapuram had a population of 18,459 of which males constitute 8,220 (44.5%) of the population and 10,239 (55.5%) females. Kannapuram census town spreads over an area of  with 4,531 families residing in it. The sex ratio of Kannapuram was 1,246 higher than state average of 1,084.
In Kannapuram, 9.3% of the population is under 6 years of age. Kannapuram had an overall literacy of 95.5% higher than state average of 94%. The male literacy stands at 98.1% and female literacy was 93.4%.

Religions
As of 2011 census, Kannapuram census town had total population of 18,459 among which 16,421 (89%) are Hindus, 1,448 (7.8%) are Muslims, 553 (3%) are Christians and 0.2% others.

Geography
Kannapuram is a town located on Valapattanam-Pappinisseri-Pazhayangadi main road, situated near Cherukunnu in Kannur district of North Malabar region in the Indian state of Kerala. The village shares borders with Cherukunnu to the north, Kalliasseri to the south, Mattool to the west, Morazha village of Anthoor Municipality and Pattuvam to the east. Kannapuram was within the princely state of Kolathu Nadu under British control till independence. The name Kannapuram originated from the presence of Sri Krishna Temple (Thrikkoth). Kannan= Sri Krishnan. Puram= land (indicating place of Sri Krishnan). Another version is that Kannapuram is the Land of Saint Kannua, who meditated in a cave near Sri Krishna Temple, Thrikkoth.

China clay products

Kannapuram has deposits of China clay. Mottammal at Kannapuram has the China clay mining by the Govt of Kerala. However, there is no factory in Kannapuram for manufacturing any products out of China clay. The extracted soil (clay) is taken away as raw material for such manufacturing units located elsewhere, especially southern Kerala.

Sree Muchilot Bhagavathi Temple
Annual Muchilot Bhagavathi organizing in the Edakkepuram Sree Muchilot Temple at Kannapuram. Kaliyattam was celebrated from 29 December 2007 through 1 January 2008 and from 22 to 25 February 2008. Muchilot Bhagavathi is one of the most popular deities worshipped in North Kerala. Anustanangalum Samoohika Prasakthiyum'describes the importance of Muchilot Bhagavathi in the social formation of northern Kerala. There is a practice for supplying food to thousands of devotees in connection with the Muchilot Bhagavathi. Another work Muchilot Bhagavathi narrates the origin and establishment of Muchilot Kavu in different parts of Kannur and Kasaragod District. Highly decorative figure of Muchilot Bhagavathi attracts the minds of devotees and the men of esthetic sense. In Cherukunnu and Kannapuram Muchilot bhagavathi Theyyam is performed annually. But in several other Kavus (places of worship) Muchilot Bhagavathi Theyyam performing in a gap of 12 to several years like one at Kayyur (near Nileshwar) in Jan 2008 after a term of 47 years. Perumkaliyattam at Muyyam near Taliparamba was a great experience to the devotees in the month of December 2007. Ramanthali (near Payyanur) also came into the fore in January 2008 as a result of the Muchilot Bhagavathi Perumkaliyattam. Varachuvaykkal and Kalavaraniraykkal are already over.

Karan Kavu
The view as well as the ambience is quite charming and devotional, with  a positive vibe  which attracts devotees. Thousands of devotees visits this temple during Theyyam. Karandaivam and Puthya Bagavathi  are the main theyyam form performed here. Karandaivam indicates the "malsya avatharam" with the fish tail shaped "mudi" (crown). Puthyabagavathi haves a long mudi which is made up with bamboo. "Thenga earu" is another main attraction of Karankavu, where thousands of coconuts are thrown and broken on a particular stone inside the kaavu. Visitors from throughout Kerala come to Darankaavu and stay there during theyyam. And it is known as "bajana irikkal", where these people will concentrate on and worship their God on these days by staying in the temple itself. Theyyam, annadaanam, thenga earu, stalls, etc. are the main attractions of Darankaavu.

Randu Kara muthappan temple
A recently formed temple for muthappan. Other theyyams performed here are thondachan and thiruvappana.

Naniyil kaavu
At this temple, the main theyyams performed are Puthya bagavathi, thottummal bagavathy, vayanaatukulavan, Gulikan, etc. Theyyam starts on the second day when the theyyam of Karankaavu is over.

Education

Kannapuram has an average literacy rate of more than 90%. The schools of Cherukunnu include:
 Govt. Vocational Higher Secondary School
 Govt. Higher Secondary School
 Edakkeppuram UP School
 Edakkeppuram LP School
 Keezhara LP School
 Kannapuram East UP School, Mottammal
 Govt. LP School, Cherukunnu

Arts
Kannapuram plays a vital role in nourishing the arts and culture of Kannur District as a whole.

Major Industries
The major industries are:
 China clay
 Handloom
 Hand weave
 Milk production and marketing
 Co-Op Banking

Transportation
The National Highway-66 passes through the Taliparamba town. Mangalore, Goa and Mumbai can be accessed on the northern side and Cochin and Thiruvananthapuram can be accessed on the southern side. Kannapuram town is located on Valapattanam-Pappinisseri-Pazhayangadi main road which gets connected to the NH-66 through Pilathara at the north and Valapattanam bridge at the south. The nearest railway station is Kannapuram on the Mangalore-Palakkad line.
Trains are available to almost all parts of India subject to advance booking. The nearest airport is Kannur, Mangalore and Calicut are also accessible. All are  international airports with direct flights to the Middle East.

References

External links

Cities and towns in Kannur district
Villages near Kannapuram

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


The 64th Primetime Emmy Awards are happening right now, and the small screen's biggest stars hit the red carpet in their awards show finery. Click through to see all of tonight's looks — we'll be updating the slideshow with more and more photos as the evening goes on. In classic awards show tradition, discuss your favorites (as well as those who missed the mark) in the comments below. Also, make sure to check out a replay of New York Magazine TV critic Matt Zoller Seitz's live blog of the ceremony and our postshow superlatives. Multitasking!


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text:
Q: What does AFK mean? I have heard my friend talk about being AFK on a Minecraft server, but I have not heard it being used in single player so I assume it refers to online gaming but i don't know what it means and what it stands for.

A: AFK is used (as you correctly assumed) online. Like many other used words online (like lol and gtg etc.) AFK is a abbreviation, specifically for A way F rom K eyboard.

A: AFK is an acronym for "away from keyboard".
It's commonly used in multiplayer games and chat rooms to let other players know that you will be unavailable for a short time (away from keyboard), or to quickly explain an idle period.

A: AFK is an acronym for Away From Keyboard. Say, you have to go for a break, then you write AFK in your private/public chatroom. Used in mobile texting and instant messaging as well.

A: Well, I'm away from my keyboard right now.
I'll tell you when I get back.

A: AFK simply means Away From Keyboard. It's commonly used in chatrooms and online games and it basically means that you won't be available (Not at the keyboard = Not in front of your computer).
Just in case you're wondering what RE or WB means: You'll see these two abbreviations quite often in onlinegames together with AFK. Re which basically means Returned and WB which stands for Welcome Back.


Each example of Bentley's new luxury coupe contains nearly 2 miles of thread and requires nine Northern European bull hides. The person preparing each leather panel places his or her initials on the reverse side, so it's possible to know who's responsible for selecting it.
The upholstery team in Crewe, England, includes 120 tailors for sewing and embroidering the upholstery. Some of them have worked at the plant for as long as 40 years.
Mulliner is Bentley's personalization division, and a group of specialist tailors take care of these requests. The intricate designs can include as many as 500,000 individual stitches and take several days to complete.
When trimming the hides, the upholstery team has to account for the fact that such complicated sewing causes the leather panels to shrink. For example, the complex embroidery causes the piece for the door panel to shrink by 12 percent.
The Continental GT's cabin features what Bentley calls a diamond-in-diamond motif that mixes stitching and embroidery. Machines perform the 712 stitches for each inner diamond. To complete the total interior, the company requires seven hours and 300,000 stitches.
All that leather requires a lot of work to make it look good.
June 13 was Sewing Machine Day, and Bentley celebrated by highlighting the craftspeople responsible for tailoring the cabins of its luxurious vehicles. Here are five fascinating facts about how the complicated process that the company goes through to upholster the new Continental GT.


MODRATEC Guest Lounge :: View topic - SigScribe4?
Posted: Tue Mar 16, 2004 4:29 pm Post subject: SigScribe4?
Anyone know how I can get a copy of SigScribe4 to beta test? I have a layout that I want to build, its at baseboard stage, all the signals and points have been worked out, something like this sounds great for the layout. Any one know how I can get a beta copy?
Are you stalking me? Cause that would be awesome!
Go to the MODRATEC home page http://MODRATEC.com and navigate to SigScribe4 then to Downloads.


In a regular person world, Tuesday was a jam-packed, keep on rushing with adrenaline type of day. (And suddenly as I'm writing this, my blood sugars make sense.) I woke up, ran outside to move my car so it wouldn't get towed because of street cleaning, zombie-d my way back inside, tried to clean my apartment, changed my pump site, tried to find a new PCP (I need a referral for a new endo), then at 11:30 needed to pick up Girl Genius. We go back to the Genius household but must be quiet because Mom Genius is working upstairs. At 12:30 we pick up Boy Genius from school and we go out to lunch. (Mom Genius wants us to be quiet since she is working and since I have both kids on Tuesdays, Tuesday lunches are usually pretty loud.) We go to Bertucci's for lunch (where I swear they hire based on looks, but the service was also good, so I'm okay with this), from there we drop off/pick up the dry cleaning, run to iParty for a Harry Potter costume for Boy Genius (for those of you who don't know him, this is THE perfect costume), run home, pick up Mom Genius, and we all go to ballet for open house. I am not a bad driver, and I'm a very calm driver with the kids in the car, but I get nervous as all hell when I have to drive Mom Genius. We get to ballet, and there are shrieks because Dad Genius is there. All day (it seems) I've been getting the question, "Is Daddy going to be at ballet?" We all go in to see ballet class. It's not like a real ballet class since all the kids are so darn excited their mommies & daddies can watch. After ballet, we all pile back in my car and as soon as we walk in the door, Mom Genius leaves for work. Girl Genius & I have a snack and then it's upstairs for a nap. Boy Genius works on his homework then takes a shower. I cook their dinner. I wake Girl Genius up and she did NOT want to wake up. Her naps have just been shortened to 45 minutes since she isn't sleeping well at night, but she isn't enjoying these 45 minute spurts either. She plays with Boy Genius for about 10 minutes when Mom Genius gets home from work. And explosion of screams and tears. We had an over-tired, severely in need of hugs, Girl Genius. And my work day was over. The adrenaline was still pumping through me, so I decided to scan some old pictures at CVS. As soon as that was done, it was time to end this fast-paced day.
My numbers in the morning were okay. After I got to work, my sugars started to climb, and then they hung out in the area of the 300's for about five hours. The first I bolused with my pump, then after that, I bolused with a needle, and still nothing. I was also drinking water, rather than my desired coffee, just to help. Around 5:30, I felt thirsty as though I was probably 500. I was ready to bolus without testing, but decided to give that handy dandy meter a shot. 115. All day I didn't feel high, but I was, and then when I felt high, I couldn't ask for a better number. I was great the rest of the night. I felt low a little bit, but never actually went low.
I was thinking about it yesterday, and I couldn't figure out why my sugars were so high. I was thinking about it this morning and still couldn't figure it out. Not until I sat down to write this, and actually started writing and saw the word adrenaline did it click. Adrenaline raises my blood sugar. A day that was fueled by adrenaline: well now it makes sense. Maybe next time I will be able to figure this out during the adrenaline high, and give myself just a teensy bit extra insulin and I can have a good diabetes day, along with a busy work day.


Learn how to make your own high quality, reliable compost—every time! Turn garden waste, food scraps, animal waste and even newspaper and cardboard into nutritious compost full of organic matter, nutrients and healthy soil microbes. Close the "nutrition loop" in your backyard and save on fertilisers at the same time!
Really great, well-made compost is one of the cornerstones of organic food production. The trouble is, it's almost impossible to buy, as commercial compost and soil are often relatively sterile or low in nutrition.
Fallen fruit, fruit tree prunings, and other garden waste can—and should—be returned to the soil to save the valuable nutrients they contain. It's called nutrient cycling, and is a key organic growing principle.
Recycling your garden offcuts, food scraps and other organic "waste" is as important as recycling your rubbish, but without a good system to manage it, all too often it ends up in landfill where it produces destructive greenhouse gases.
Lots of people have tried making their own compost, with little success—it ends up smelly, too dry, slimy, or it just attracts rodents and other pests.
In this module you'll learn about eight different compost systems and their pros and cons, and how to choose the right one for you.
There's plenty of details about making awesome hot compost, how to get the ratio of ingredients right, and even some handy examples to help you work it out. Includes which materials to use, troubleshooting and how to tell when your compost is finished.
You'll understand how to turn a problem into safe and free fertiliser for your garden.