Who he is: An artist of Cocoa Beach, also one of my favorite painters.
Why you should know him: I believe he will be legendary one day.
I was on my way to the infamous Coconuts, located just outside Orlando at Cocoa Beach, when I first stumbled upon Rick Piper. Among a few other artists, he was sitting on the side of the street selling original art. His work, in particular, caught my eye and caused me to immediately pull over. I needed to see the paintings up close and personal. There were two pieces that immediately drew my attention, both were his. One was of a beach scene that had a Buddha type character carved into a rock. The other one was a much darker piece of a lonely mermaid that was chained to the floor of sometime type of cell, depicted mostly in shades of blue and grey.
I purchased "The Call" that day, my first piece of original art named after the waves that appeared to be calling out from the Buddha's stone-cold mouth. Although, the mermaid still haunts me to this day. I often wonder if I made the right decision, considering it's been six years and I still debate it. The choice to endanger those in the vehicle with me when I nearly wrecked the van pulling over that day, however, appears to have been the right choice (Sorry Casey!). Because I now have six pieces of Rick's work living in my house. The latest one I acquired, I feel most certainly was meant to be mine, even though I missed the opportunity to buy it during its first release.
For five years, I have continually asked about this particular painting titled "Earth Moved." I had no money at the time Rick was selling it, and so it slipped away. Since then, I've asked Rick things like, "Do you think it is inappropriate to approach the new owner and ask if it's for sale now?" Rick usually laughs at my ridiculous attempts to claim what I tend to think is mine. One day, he gave me a print of it—I imagine out of sympathy.
Then, last week, due to unforeseen circumstances, the painting suddenly became available again. When news of this popped up on my e-mail, along with a picture of the piece, I nearly fell over. I called and e-mailed Rick simultaneously, hoping he had saved it for me. And he did, "Earth Moved" is now mine. It's something that I—never in a million years—imagined happening. Because when you miss out on good art, you never get the opportunity to get it back. Unless you are me, then things usually have a strange way of working themselves out.
Were you born and raised right here in Cocoa Beach?
No, but I am a Florida native. I was born in West Palm Beach. My Dad was a preacher, so we were almost like a military family when it came to moving around. He liked working with smaller churches to get them to a certain point, build them up. Then he would look for a new place to do that once he did it. So we moved all the time. My Dad liked Florida though, so we were always back and forth to Florida.
When did you get locked in here?
I moved to Cocoa Beach in … geez, my first stint here started in, like, '79. I got married a moved away for awhile to Connecticut. Then I got divorced and moved back … I've been here ever since; I consider it like home.
Were there any repercussions from being a preacher's son?
Yeah, you know, being a P.K. is a big deal.
A preacher's kid, P.K. is what all the preacher's kids call it. It's a unique aspect to be raised by the person that is—at least in your small society—a religious leader. I saw my dad when he was not the preacher. My dad was a flawed human as there ever was, not in a sense that he was doing anything hypocritical. He was a hard guy, hard on himself and hard on everyone else.
The story that is unique to preacher's kids is that you have to act a certain way. If you get in trouble, it's a bad reflection on your father, his business or his avocation. You are always under that scrutiny. Most preachers' kids rebel crazily, they're usually the wildest kids in town. I wasn't as much, but my brothers—I was the baby of five kids—they took care of that. I grew my hair out, that's about as rebellious as I got. I had a couple of brothers that were major drunks, so I didn't get into that. By the time they were in college, they were messin' up pretty hard. I saw that from a distance and thought, "Nah, I don't want to get into that." My art is my escape, my drug or whatever.
When did you pick up a paintbrush?
Well, I've done art my whole life … painting is something that came later in my life. Drawing was my strong suit. I was a black and white artist, mostly pencil, charcoal and graphic stuff, like printing. All the way up and through college, I had a sense that I didn't really know color.
No. My dad was OK; he wrote some poetry. But I do have creative people in my family. There were some aunts that were gifted, but not formally artists.
At what point did you realize it was something that you wanted to do professionally?
Do you think school is a place someone can learn art?
I think you can learn a great deal about art in school. I actually have a belief system that anybody can be … I don't think "taught" art is the right word, but they can be introduced to the visual aspects and levels of their own mind and facility. I see education as a place where you can learn a lot of technique and get a lot practice, experience and influence from other people. And occasionally, you might get the right teacher that can teach you something about it. But for the most part, it's an innate part of humanity for most people.
I think there are people, like myself, that have an intrinsic gift for it and are driven. I guess because a dominate part of my brain makes me want to mimic things visually. There are artists friends of mine that I'd qualify as gifted artists; and then there people who do art, who don't have a natural gift, but do it because they love it. I imagine anyone can get better with their physical facility for drawing or painting. But to me, that's not art as much as technique. I think that art can be done by people that are extremely naïve and that have no technical ability at all; they can do incredible things that are visionary expressions. I think great art is authentic expressions in a visual language.
Do you remember the first painting that you sold?
I was like, "Yeah, yeah." At that point, I was ready to put them out in the dumpster. But I brought him in and showed him anyway. Mentally, I had abandoned the whole idea.
He asked, "How much are they?" They were 5' x 6'canvases, huge pieces that took weeks of work. I was trying to get a grand back then, but I had lowered the price to $500 … then $300.
So I said, "I'm trying to get $300, but at the moment I'd take $150." That was the cost of materials.
He was this guy that came out of the blue and gave me hope. You can't do anything without hope, especially creatively. He made everything better. Suddenly, I was validated. I just needed the universe to give me that, "Hey, you're on the right road." Then things even got worse of course, but I wasn't stopping at that point.
Is it essential that you live close to water?
Yeah, I think it is. I need to be near some environmentally inspiring place. I couldn't live in a town that doesn't have water or mountains in it, or at least some feature that has a wealth of inspiring aspects. But water is a huge symbol of my work.
How does the beach inspire you?
When I was a child, we had lived in some pretty boring Midwestern kind of places that didn't have a lot going. So it was really inspiring to see the river. What fascinated me about seeing water in mass everywhere—I have sketches from way back when—was trying to figure out what the waves look like when they are moving. They move so quickly; it's a fascinating organic shape that focuses almost everyone, so much that when they see water they are transfixed by it. It's like what my friend calls a common primitive; it's like looking into fire. It just locks us in, that curve motion that you can see. You're not really sure what it's doing, or how it's doing it, but you can freeze it in a photograph.
It's not just the beach, it's all water. I can watch a river, rapids or a waterfall pouring. However, waves are a great expression of water and energy. It's one of the only places in the natural world that you can visually observe energy. Surfers like to talk about that a lot; I've read some esoteric articles about it in surfing magazines. Waves are the only place you can see energy, approach it and climb on top of it.
Where else do you draw inspiration? Are there other artists you look up to?
Some of your pieces remind me of Dali. How does he visually influence you?
The answers is no, he probably did it for a show between this time and that time. I mean, how could he have even completed those? There are a few tricks in there I guess. Dali likes to do color fields and fades that seem to be plains in a dream-like desert. If you look at it pragmatically, those cover most of his canvases and then the super detailed stuff is small. So I guess it does only take weeks, as opposed to the months that it appears to take.
Are there other artists or eras that you're attracted to?
I was heavy into Cubism early in my life. That introduced me to abstract art and the idea of abandoning rules. Of course Cubism has a certain set of rules that gives it its look, but the whole phenomenon of abstraction is a very freeing concept artistically and creatively—I think beyond even visual arts. Think about it. When the camera was invented, the purpose of an artist changed. They were no longer a recorder of Realism and serving a purpose as a craft, striving to make things as perfect as they look. The only way to get a picture of a King or valley back then was to have someone paint it or sculpt it.
Then the camera was invented and you could make a more perfect image in a thirtieth of a second. All the artist of that era—Modern Art and the twentieth century, we're talking about 1910—it was the whole permeation of the idea that we don't have to do this. What is our purpose? We don't have to just recreate images. They explored it all the way to abandon the form and the subject matter. You've got [Paul Jackson] Pollock that just poured paint on something, his own expression that isn't really any thing. It's not a picture of anything. Although, I struggle with Pollock's interpretation; he wasn't even trying to be beautiful. But then again, I've seen a Pollock in the right lighting in a museum—and I'm sure he'd reject my opinion of it—and it was beautiful, when I walked up to it, the sunlight hit all the ridges of paint. I don't think he meant it for that purpose, but I see beauty in his aesthetics.
How long does it take you to finish one of your pieces?
I paint pretty fast. I've done a lot of mural pieces, so I've gotten fast. I typically see paintings as something I need to get to the finish of. A lot of artists will work on multiple pieces here and there. I tell people, "For me, it's a story and I have to see how it ends." So my smaller pieces, I'll finish in a day. It depends on details and inspiration. Some times I get this idea and it just cranks; I'm talking a 6-foot canvas in six hours. Then, you'll get other ones that you struggle with.
Do you work best in the morning or at night?
I seem to work best at night. My schedule slips though because I stay up later and later painting and then the next day is ruined. I'll wake-up later and paint later. But I did discover that every six months it turns over completely because I start staying up so late it that it is morning. Then it's like, "Hey mornings are cool. I haven't seen these in a while." [Laughs] My life right now is so independent of all that though, a lot of times I don't even know what day of the week it is—those are my best times. When I'm involved in creating and not tied to anything.
Do you keep track of where your paintings go?
I do. All these paintings are original authentic expressions, so I feel tied to all of them. I don't just create product. A lot of people ask me to paint things again and I never do that. I just paint; and I want to find new things every time I do it. Some times people will come up to me and say, "I have one of your paintings." I won't recognize them, but as soon as I found out what painting they have then I remember the whole thing. I recognize people by what pieces they have.
Do you do paintings by request?
Rarely. I am at the point right now that I have enough people collecting me, so I have the luxury of doing what I want to do, which is what most people want from me. People like my style. I don't want to copy a picture. I get offers every week of my life for commission work and I say, "No." For other people and fans of my work—depending on the timing and the money—occasionally, if you give me a little idea, I'll sketch something based on that. If I like it, I'll show it to you. If you like it, I'll paint it for you.
How is the business side of being an artist during these times?
In these times, it's hard. It's sucking. Everyone is suffering through economic karma, as well as other karma from this period of time. I can't wait for it to be over. The last 6-8 months have really been recessionary. Art is one of those things people buy when they are in a good mood; it's a subjective purchase. If people are worried about their groceries, they aren't going to buy a piece of original art. That aside, last month was an anomaly; a lot of things came out of no where.
What does the little group of fish in most of your paintings symbolize?
I spend so much time fishing in this lagoon system out back, the Banana River, some of the best fishing in Central Florida, Florida and the world, really. The bottom of the food chain is the mullet, or these little schools of mullet. As a fisherman, I cast net those mullet to use for bait, to catch other fish. If you been to the river, you've seen them everywhere. There like your constant companions when you're wading around and fishing. A lot of my paintings have the fingerling mullet.
In what exhibitions or museums has your work been featured in lately?
My last big deal thing was last year when I won "Best of Show" at the Brevard Art Museum. I also won the Purchase Award that year. That was a lot of prize money and attention because no one has won both of those awards in the same year. That was the first time that I ventured into museum contest. I don't really do a lot of seeking out for competitive environments. I mean, first try—win everything. That was great.
This year I didn't even get in the show. In the last six months, a lot of things have tapped me on the shoulder and said, "Hey, this is not what you do. You don't do the subjective art world and get validated by ribbons, prizes, awards and money." I create my artwork, and sell it to people who fall in love with it. That's my mission. Competitive environments don't bring out the best in me anyway.
What is your definition of successful art?
I think what you'd call success is creating something that is important visually to you. Like, if you take a walk, and you get this idea or see something that makes a thought. Then you take that and bring it into the realm of 3-dimensional reality. If you love it and authentically it expresses what you were hoping it could, then someone else, especially some one you don't know, sees it and says, "Oh my gosh!" The authenticity of a connection to another human through something that is truly your reflection of a reality is the most successful thing that could ever happen. If they buy the painting, that's validating too. But really, the money just allows you to buy more materials to go do another one.
Where are the furthest places that you've sent your paintings?
Let's see, I have paintings in France. I have paintings in the Caribbean … in Hawaii … in Canada and South America … and now, prints in Japan … thanks to Hideki. He's trying to market my stuff over there.
Where do you see your art heading?
I don't know. There always is the tropical aspect and the reflections of this area … and things that I love that are true to me. [Hideki asks to take pictures of us while we're interviewing.] It's an interesting question because I look forward to finding out where it goes. I wonder what I'll be painting at 80, because I know it's changing. It always changes. To me, that's one of the most important parts of it. I want to keep growing and changing, like everybody … whether they know it or not.
To answer you specifically, I've been thinking about doing something on a much larger scale, something that is not meant to be bought individually. I want to find a venue, or big space, and do an installation without the approval of museums or whatever. What people don't know is that I've done lots of kinds of art in my life—I've just settled on doing what I love.
Where do you think your art will be in 100 years?
That's one little connection us artists have with original art, it gives us a little bit of immortality because it will be around. That's a satisfying idea. There will be people that see my painting for the first time in 100 years. I mean, like six generations from now there may be people in their teenage years playing on beaches, and then they see my paintings and go, "Wow." That'd be great.
Then, I guess, you've done your job.
Yeah, I've done my job. It's why art is referred to as a life's work—it's not work. Who knows what will happen after I'm dead, but right now it's kind of a delicious idea.
To see the mermaid that haunts me and more of Rick's work, go to www.rickpipersart.com.


At OR, we're big fans of sun-kissed skin (and we've got a UV-free tip for that!), but as two farm girls born and raised beneath the pervasive California rays, we're also well aware of the sun's ability to cause premature aging and – if that's not reason enough to protect your skin – cancer. Because a large portion of any rider's life is spent outside, below we share some of our favorite sun-mitigating techniques that give us a healthy glow straight through summer.
We've been singing the praises of Elta MD's line of sunscreen products for a long time now (check it out). But for those "reapply every two hours" dilemmas (who slathers creamy sunscreen on top of makeup, or sweaty post-ride skin?) we turn to travel-friendly, compact, easily-applied Peter Thomas Roth Instant Mineral SPF.
We love Irish linen buttondowns for sunny hacks. We wear these slim-cut men's versions since they're a bit longer (for tucking) and offer a wider range of motion than those that we found for women. They are cool and breathable, washable, offer full coverage, plus look super stylish and a bit masculine when tucked into breeches.
Pro Tip: Opt for the monogram. It's a well-spent $10!
For those of us who feel better with a bit of color, self-tanners have come a long way! After a recent experience with a salon spray-tan-gone-wrong, we discovered Clarins' user-friendly Self-Tanning Milky Lotion which provides a believable sun-kissed glow, rather than a splotchy and unnatural shade of tangerine. No appointment necessary.
We're big Samshield fans at OR, and we love the fully customizable and sun-blocking design of the Miss Shield. However, for maximum shade and minimum investment, we recommend EquiVisor velcro-on, adjustable helmet visors. We've been teased for embracing them so fully, and while they may not be the most flattering items in our tack trunks, we think they make us look pretty smart.
An OR favorite for sun-blocking technology, as well as breathability and washability. With a 50+ UV rating, mesh venting, moisture-wicking fabric, and a mock turtleneck collar to protect the décolletage and [often-ignored] back of the neck, this top leaves little to be desired.
A rider's hands can spend multiple hours in direct sun each day, and are often the first to show signs of age. Gloves are an easy way to protect hands from harmful rays (among other things), and they're also good for things like grip, which we find important as well. This Roecki pair provides an SPF 10 equivalent while allowing some light to pass through in order to avoid tan lines, but we prefer the full coverage of this lightweight Samshield option.
Catching a few summer rays is simply unavoidable, and we all need the proper dosage of Vitamin D anyway. To help repair visible signs of UV damage, our go-to, tried and true, everyone-in-the-family-uses-it, must-have product is the CE-Tetra serum by Medik8. We've mentioned it before so it may look familiar, but we simply cannot sing this product's praises enough!
Horses need sun protection, too! Absorbine's Santa Fe Coat Conditioner & Sunscreen is a great addition to any grooming box. Spritz on ponytails before turnout, long hacks, or strenuous days of sunny competition to keep hair shiny, healthy, and protected.


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SUV body types: Monocoque vs body-on-frame
SUVs today make use of either a unitary or a body on frame construction. What are these and what's the difference?
Badge Histories: Korean Brands
Out of all the brands currently available on the market, it's arguably the Koreans that have made the greatest leap forward in the last 20 years. Here's what their badges mean.
Mahindra & Mahindra: A hidden giant
The world's largest producer of tractors, Mahindra & Mahindra currently owns world-renowned Italian design house Pininfarina. How did this come to be?
Badge Histories: British Brands, Part 1
Featuring marques that major on utility, luxury and performance almost in equal variety, Britain remains home to some of the most famous car brands in the world. Here are four of them.
How the Mazda MX badge has evolved
Applying the MX badge to a crossover may seem like sacrilege, but it's not the first time the name has appeared on a less sporty vehicle.
British India: The story behind the owners of Jaguar Land Rover
A household name in India, the Tata Group is a conglomerate with interests in numerous industries, with its involvement in the automotive space including Jaguar Land Rover
Badge Histories: American Brands, Part 2
With diverse landscapes and one of the largest automotive markets in the world, American marques cater to a wide variety of different tastes.
American carmakers have been responsible for so many iconic model lines, including the Corvette and Mustang. But what about the history behind their badges?
The Geely empire: What do Volvo, Polestar and Lotus have in common?
Geely is hardly a household name in Australia, but some of the brands under this company's ownership, such as Volvo and Lotus, are world renowned for their safety and performance.
Badge Histories: Italian Brands, Part 2
Italian marques have been responsible for some of the most iconic cars ever designed, and their badges have an equally prominent history.
Platform sharing: The many faces of TNGA
The Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) is the Japanese giant's take on modular platform sharing to rival the likes of Volkswagen's MQB.
Volkswagen Golf GTI through the ages
The Volkswagen Golf GTI might the hot hatch benchmark, but it has been through its share of ups and downs during its 46-year history.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


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Money & Investing
My recommended stock picks
Thread starter The_Chameleon
The_Chameleon
I reckon that one will recover before long.
What you in at?
MenInTights
$19. It has a lot of upside but unfortunately its in the manipulation phase right now because being a recent ipo there's not a lot of public data. A few days ago a vicious report came out that tanked the price. I'm sure there will be a lot of very "smart" people that load up after this "attack" and then make huge profits down the road. buy/sell ratings are just a scam.
$19? Ouch. I would cut my losses if I were you. It was a flash in the pan and may eventually crawl back to 12 but by then you could have made a lot of money on what you have left riding another horse. Roll with cyclical stocks with an excellent track record. GORO (Gold Resource) is currently at the top of it's cycle, but if you wait it out, you'll be able to get in at a good price and ride it for over a dollar, maybe even 2. IPO's are risky business and the only way to play them is if you manage to get in at the ground floor, assuming you've picked a good one to begin with. If it's already shot up, you're too late, don't risk it. Cyclical is the way to go. The trends are MUCH more predictable. Also, Gold stocks are a good place to have money if the market does a tailspin, which I predict to happen in the next 2-4 years or sooner.
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Yout generous support means a lot to us!
Hong Kong Generation Next Arts Limited (HKGNA) relies on the generous contributions of our Supporters and Sponsors in order to promote our young artists with performing opportunities, music programs and activities.
HKGNA is a registered charity and any donations of at least HKD 100 are tax-deductible with a receipt. If you would like a US tax receipt, please contact HKGNA at 6083-2560.


And here is the surrounding wilderness. The ruined castle just north of town is Kemoor Castle. The smaller island just north of the larger one is Toad Island. And the area between the two large lakes in the upper right area of the map is Duskmoor Fen. Hope that helps when your trying to find your way around.


Thousands of people operate by the rule: The morning cup of coffee makes my day. And, we understand. If you've got a habit of grabbing a quick sip of your espresso to wake you up, or enjoy chatting with your friends over a nice Frappuccino in a café, relocation can make your routine tough. So, for all those who are looking forward to grabbing a cup of Joe after moving to New York, this is the perfect post. We're going to give you a quick guide to coffee in NYC!
How do locals drink coffee in New York?
Any New Yorker will tell you that quality is one of the best things about their morning coffee.
As pretty much everything else is, coffee is a science in NYC, as well. The locals here prefer to drink their brew in the early morning, and usually outside of their home. So, don't be surprised when you hit your first long line in front of the coffee place at an ungodly hour. This is the norm in New York. Most of the locals prefer their coffee sweet and light, so this is what is called 'regular' in the city. Also, if they're asking for more than $5 for the cup, they're definitely ripping you off. And if you're looking to value what the New Yorkers do when searching for the best coffee in NYC, value quality and location of the shop first.
Regular coffee in NYC means quality beans and plenty of sugar and milk.
Regular or simply 'coffee' – this is the norm in New York. In other words, after relocating to the Big Apple, the barista will serve your coffee with milk and sugar!
Dark – be warned, this still means milk. However, unlike our previous entry there won't be as much.
Lite or light – plenty of milk. Some New Yorkers like their coffee really light, so, this will be it.
Extra lite or extra light – this is more milk than coffee. For all of those who drink their first cup at home and then continue to get another one after they leave for work in NYC. Though, you may be surprised just how delicious it is, despite it being really, really light.
Sweet and lite – regular, but reinforced. This is the coffee in NYC that will have enough sugar and milk to make the cup completely white. Only by tasting will you be able to tell the difference between the former two and this one.
No sugar – you need to say it at least twice. Warning: the 'no sugar' or 'no milk' in New York just means a little bit of sugar or milk, or both! So, if you're the kind that's looking for a sugar free cup of Joe after moving to the city, you'll need to learn to say it clearly and loudly.
Milk and sugar or cream and sugar – no. This doesn't exist. Forget about this phrase and don't use it in NY. Otherwise, you will receive a number of angry glares as you stand in line for coffee. New Yorkers don't like tourists too much, especially when they're slowing them down, and ordering coffee like this will make you seem like one. Instead, try a regular or just say coffee. Remember the NYC mantra: Don't waste time, yours or other people's.
There are plenty of great spots where you can drink coffee in NYC: Here are our top picks.
For all those who can't get by in a week without a fancy coffee date with your friends, don't worry. There are plenty of spots in the Big Apple for you to explore. So, after you're done unloading the boxes with your international movers from NYC, pick a place from this list! And, if it's close enough to your new home in New York, you can visit it on busy workdays, as well.
There are two locations for this coffee shop, with the more popular one being in Upper West Side. As the items on their menu are both interesting and affordable, they tend to draw a crowd. So, head to Box Kite Coffee quickly if you want to try one of their seasonal specialties in a cup. Also, we'd suggest trying out the popular 'one and one' after you've moved to NY. It has a shot of espresso, milky macchiato, a little bit of sparkling water and a homemade cracker on a tray. All in all, definitely worth the visit!
There are plenty of great coffee shops in East Village, but we wanted to show off this lovely place. For all of you moving from Florida to NYC, this is the spot to head to when you get hit by nostalgia. Abraço may not serve cafecito, but it does have a wide range of international influences. The staff here prepare coffee in Spanish, Italian and Middle Eastern style, drawing on the tradition. There are plenty of snacks which fit the theme, like olive-oil cake and pain perdu, which are served, too. And, have we mentioned that it's an affordable place by NYC standards?
For all of you iced coffee lovers, this is the perfect spot to check out. The coffee is roasted in Long Island City and then prepared at six locations around New York on a daily basis. The most well-known shop is in Midtown, accessible from plenty of subway lines. If you're in the mood for a light roast or dark beans, Birch Coffee has them both. To add to the experience, there are also pastries available. Birch Coffee shops sell all sorts of wonderful treats, from donuts to cookies, which will beautifully complement their brews. And, if you prefer reading while drinking your brew, we'd suggest heading to the Flatiron location of Birch's. You will find a large lending library available for use. So, if you're moving to New York in the spring or summer, this may just be the perfect spot to visit with your new friends or neighbors.


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Нікольська селищна територіальна громада — територіальна громада в Україні, на території Маріупольського району Донецької області. Адміністративний центр — селище міського типу Нікольське.

Утворена 17 липня 2020 року.

Населені пункти
До складу громади входить селище міського типу Нікольське, селище Лісне і 26 сіл:
 Бойове
 Веселе
 Зелений Яр
 Кальчинівка
 Криничне
 Ксенівка
 Лугове
 Малинівка
 Назарівка
 Новогригорівка
 Новокраснівка
 Новороманівка
 Новоянисоль
 Паннівка
 Первомайське
 Перемога
 Республіка
 Садове
 Сергіївка
 Суженка
 Темрюк
 Тополине
 Українка
 Федорівка
 Шевченко

Джерела

Громади Маріупольського району

засновані в Україні 2020

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


text:
By News Observer / August 9, 2022
Jerusalem Mission Community Church Celebrates Founder And Pastor, Dr. Freddie L. Thomas
Jerusalem Mission Community Church hosted it's 50th Founders Day celebrating the legacy and 88th birthday of Founding Pastor, Dr. Freddie L. Thomas Sr. The celebratory event was held on Sunday, August 7, 2022 at 3:00 p.m.
Celebrating the Founder's Day service of 56 years at Jerusalem Mission Community COGIC. Thank you to Pastor Emeritus Freddie Louis Thomas Sr. and First Lady Dr. Dorothy Marie Thomas for their dedicated ministry. (Photo: @KarenGoh/FaceBook)
By Darlene L. Williams | Contributing Writer
Bakerfield Mayor Kern Goh presenting a Proclamation (Photo: Carrington Prichett)
Thanking Mother Glenette Britton for her ministry as a charter member of Jerusalem Mission Community COGIC (Photo: @KarenGoh/FaceBook)
Patrick Jackson, President, NAACP Bakersfield (Photo: @KarenGoh/FaceBook)
Newly Installed Pastor, Freddie L Thomas Jr. (Photo: Carrington Prichett)
Ward 2 Councilmember Andrae Gonzales offering remarks at the Jerusalem Mission Community COGIC Founder's Day Service. (Photo: @KarenGoh/FaceBook)
Thank you Pastor Emeritus Freddie Louis Thomas Sr. and First Lady Dr. Dorothy Marie Thomas (center) for their dedicated ministry. (Photo: @ArleanaFrinkWaller/FaceBook)
Jerusalem Mission Community COGIC Founder's Day Service Program. (Photo: @KarenGoh/FaceBook)
(BAKERSFIELD, CALIF.)— Jerusalem Mission Community Church hosted it's 50th Founders Day celebrating the legacy and 88th birthday of Founding Pastor, Dr. Freddie L. Thomas Sr. The celebratory event was held on Sunday, August 7, 2022 at 3:00 p.m.
100 degree weather did little to deter well-wishers, friends, and family from joining the up-lifting celebration.
An estimated one-hundred fifty well-wishers, family, and friends gathered at Jerusalem Mission Community Church to join the parishioners in celebrating the contributions, legacy, and leadership of Dr. Thomas (a.k.a., Pastor Freddie).
Various awards and certificates were presented to "charter members" who had been members of the church since its beginning 56-years ago. Several parishioners of Jerusalem Mission Church were also given awards of recognition for their contributions to the church and community.
"Don't forget the people that helped you get where you are", Thomas said, as he stood to give remarks and to acknowledge those in attendance.
ShePower CEO and Founder, Arleana Waller, reminisced about the longstanding friendship and community partnership she continues to have with Dr. Thomas. She shared childhood memories of a long-term loving relationship between Dr. Thomas and her late parents.
His love and dedication for the community earned him the NAACP President's Award, said, NAACP President Patrick Jackson as he expressed gratitude and appreciation for a man well-loved by his church and community.
Mayor Karen Goh, along with several Kern County elected officials were in attendance to pay tribute to Thomas
"We are here to acknowledge God's wonderful works" Mayor Goh said, as she presented an award to Thomas recognizing his "effort to transition lives". She also presented awards to Pastor Thomas on behalf of Senators Shannon Grove and Vince Fong, who could not attend the celebration.
U.S. Congressman David Valadao's' office presented Thomas with a certificate of recognition and a flag from the U.S. capital.
Following the three-hour celebration, a catered birthday dinner followed in the church Fellowship Hall.
Dr. Thomas is a respected Pastor and retired CEO of T& T Building Construction and has supported and contributed to the erection of many church buildings throughout Northern and Southern California. Jerusalem Mission Church was founded in 1964, "in a little house across the street" from the present church, said, Dr. Dorothy Thomas (Wife, First Lady).
Lady Thomas expressed her heart-felt appreciation for the outpouring of love and support they received from the community. "We celebrated him while he is still alive", she said.
Bakersfield News Observer coverage of local news in Kern County is supported by the Ethnic Media Sustainability Initiative, a program created by California Black Media and Ethnic Media Services to support community newspapers across California.
Categories: Front Page, Local Tags: Bakersfield


This entry was posted in Game Play, The Good The Bad The Griffins and tagged Addicts Area, Beachy Keen, Family Guy Addicts, Family Guy Addicts The Quest For Stuff, Family Guy Game, Family Guy The Quest For Stuff, Family Guy Tips and Tricks, Sunburnt Quagmire, Waterfall. Bookmark the permalink.
Now I can't get the song out of my head, arggghhh!
I appreciate the heads up – except that I think the Waterfall is lovely, and I'm really not particularly interested in the Sunburnt Quagmire outfit! I know that the Waterfall is a deco and thus technically useless, but I would still rather have it in my town, versus (yet another!) mostly naked Quagmire outfit. Is there any reason I'm missing why it's better to collect outfits? Or is it just a matter of personal preference?
I think it is just personal preference.
This was my plan as well, I'm not a huge fan of when they use the same currency for multiple items but im progressing well. I just placed the water taxi and with a slight increase on lure drops getting enough party favors should be doable!


text:
Neodon irene е вид бозайник от семейство Хомякови (Cricetidae).

Разпространение
Видът е разпространен в Китай (Гансу, Съчуан, Тибет, Цинхай и Юннан).

Източници

Neodon
Фауна на Китай


Effetre Stringers : FlameTree Glass, Inc.
Effetre Stringers are approximatley 2-3mm in diameter. The rods are precut into approximately 13" lengths. 104 COE. All glass rods sold by the pound. Prices shown are per pound amount. The minimum amount per color is .25 pound. There are approximately 6 rods in .25 lb.


text:
Lethbridge public schools set to adjust to new COVID-19 restrictions
Pat Siedlecki, staff November 25, 2020
Photo credit to MyLethbridgeNow.com (Tina Karst)
Schools within the Lethbridge public division are getting ready for changes announced this week by the provincial government.
Mandatory restrictions for schools, which begin Nov. 30.
Students in Grade 7 to Grade 12 will move to at-home learning starting on Nov. 30. Students and staff will have their scheduled Christmas break following the last day of class on Dec. 18. The first day of class, Jan. 4, will commence as scheduled with at-home delivery.
Grades K-6 students (including Early Education Program students), will continue in-person learning to Dec. 18. Following the scheduled Christmas break, classes will be delivered at-home using online delivery from Jan. 4 through to Jan. 8.
At this time, all students are set to resume in-person classes on Jan. 11.
For our middle schools, this will mean Grade 6 students will continue to go to school until Dec. 18. These students will continue to be bused to school, as per usual.
An important note for high school students and staff is that diploma exams are optional for rest of the school year. Students and their families can choose whether to write an exam or receive an exemption for the January, April, June and August 2021 exams.
Details regarding opting into exams will be sent by schools in the near future.
(From Lethbridge School Division)


text:
<?php

namespace controllers;

use xen\mvc\Controller;
use xen\mvc\view\Phtml;

class IndexController extends Controller
{
    public function init()
    {
    }

    public function indexAction()
    {
        $this->_layout->title           = 'xenFramework.com';
        $this->_layout->description     = 'Create your own Php MVC Framework from scratch';

        $partial = new Phtml('application/views/partials/example.phtml');
        $this->_view->addPartial('example', $partial);

        return $this->render();
    }
}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
"…we don't represent any institution.
We represent our clients."
-David Massart, President & Founding Partner
"...we don't represent any institution. We represent our clients."
100+ years combined experience:
14 years of Bear Markets
11 years of Recession
Experienced where it COUNTS.
"We are known for providing world-class advice on a first-name basis."
-Mike Weil, CIMA, CFP®
"Our custom solutions differentiate us from other firms."
-Jeff Kralovec, Senior Vice President
"Clients appreciate the genuine level of care and attention to detail we show them."
-Jeff Robbins, CFP®6
Notable Recognition:
Our Notable Recognitions:
Nationally recognized in FA Magazine's Annual RIA Rankings
Listed among the Top Firms in Wisconsin by investor.com
Ranked among the Top 10 Financial Advisors in Milwaukee
Nationally recognized in FA
Magazine's Annual RIA Rankings
Listed among the Top Firms
in Wisconsin by investor.com
Ranked among the Top 10
in Milwaukee
Eileen R. Karvala Bio
Eileen R. Karvala
Vice President | Business Manager
Eileen R. Karvala manages client relations and business operations at Next Generation Wealth Management, and draws from more than fifteen years of experience working in the fields of Marketing, Insurance and Counseling where providing personalized service and developing trust-centered relationships with clients is paramount.
Just prior to joining Next Generation Wealth Management, Eileen spent a decade managing the research department at a major global marketing agency where she provided research services to a roster of high-profile clients including Capital One, Visa, U.S. Bank, The Hartford, Hershey, Comcast, and BP (among others). Earlier in her career, Eileen was employed as an insurance claims analyst, and also managed the claims clerical department and staff. Finally, Eileen has worked in the counseling field, both as a community crisis counselor, as well as a school guidance counselor.
Eileen has a B.A. in English and an M.S. in Counseling, both from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. She was a member of Chi Sigma Iota, and graduated Magna Cum Laude. Curious by nature, Eileen considers herself a life-long learner, and has collected several certifications and designations in various fields over the years including Marketing, Insurance, Counseling and Education.
Eileen resides with her husband and daughter in Oconomowoc, WI.


The South Dakota high school basketball season tips off this week around the region ... and for the Rapid City Central girls, building on the experience of last year's state tournament appearance is the goal.
Both the RAPID CITY CENTRAL BOYS AND GIRLS basketball teams will get their seasons started at the Gillette Invitational in Wyoming on Thursday. THE COBBLER girls RETURN SOME KEY PLAYERS FROM LAST YEAR'S SQUAD THAT took eighth place at the Class AA state tournament AND COACH Kraig Blomme KNOWS THIS WEEK'S GAMES WILL BE A great TEST FOR HIS SQUAD as it looks to get back to the state tournament this year.
Both the Cobbler teams will play games in Gillette on Thursday, Friday and Saturday against opponents to be determined. The girls will then return home to play Mitchell and Huron on December 14th and 15th while the boys hit the road to face the Kernels and Tigers.
The Spearfish wrestling team graduated 10 seniors off of last year's team, but the Spartans feel like there is some good, young talent to develop on this year's senior-less squad.
Young Spartans looking to grow | Graduated 10 seniors] The Spartans will look to 195-pound junior Evan Hehr, who compiled a 34-19 record and finished seventh in the state as a sophomore last season, and 132-pound sophomore Max Sailor who was 41-14 and also took seventh at 126 pounds last year as a freshman, to help some of their teammates grow this season.
The Spartans will get a great idea of where they stand this weekend as the Rapid City Inviational hits town on Friday and Saturday. That tournament begins Friday at 2 at Rapid City Central and continues all day Saturday beginning at 8 in the morning.
The Rapid City Rush dropped a tough shootout loss to the Allen Americans earlier today in Texas despite goals from Andrew Radjenovic and Garrett Klotz. The Americans put two out of four shots in the net in the shootout while only Tyler Poulsen managed to score for the Rush. Rapid City dropped to 10-8-2-2 with the loss and has 24 points, six behind first-place Tulsa in the Mountain Division. Allen moved to 5-15-0-2 with the win and is still in the Mountain cellar with 12 points. The two teams will play again in Allen tomorrow night before Rapid City moves on to take on the Wichita Thunder in a three-game series beginning Friday.


Kasturi multispeciality hospital was established in the year 2011, by Dr.M.kasturi MD,DGO senior Obstetrician and Gynecologist & Dr Sushanth MV MS Ortho MSc Ortho UK consulting Orthopaedic Joint replacement and sports medicine surgeon. The hospital was established to provide high quality medical and surgical care customized for individual patients needs. It is a 50 bedded hospital, with in house laboratory services, X-Ray , Ultra sound scanning. An ultra modern operation theatre complex with laminar airflow systems the latest equipment and machinery for all types of anesthesia, orthopaedic trauma surgery, joint replacements, arthroscopy(key hole surgery),spine surgeries, laparoscopy, Obstretic & Gynaec surgeries,ENT Surgery, Urology, surgical gastroenterology, plastic&cosmetic surgery, paediatric surgery and so on. The department of OBGYn has a modern labour room conducting painless epidural deliveries, high risk pregnancies, twin pregnancies. The hospital also has allied specialities such as Paediatrics, Cardiology, Diabetology, Endocrinology, Medical gastroenterology, Nephrology, Dermatology & Physiotherapy. Expert joint pain specialist in telangana provides treatment for all types of joint pains.We have a excellent team of well experienced staff nurses, duty doctors, female and male. helpers to make the patients stay as comfortable as home.The hospital is centrally located in Hyderabad close to the Secunderabad railway station, the airport pick up point,the metro station and main bus stop. The hospital has ambulance services and travel desk.


Educators are users of the system who create and mark assessments for their learners. Educators can only see learners and learner information in the system if they have been 'linked' to that learner by the Organisation Administrator.
Restricted Educators are a limited version of the Educator role. Restricted Educators cannot create assessments.
Read more about the educator roles here.


text:
import * as React from 'react';
import { Component } from 'react';
import { lazyInject } from "../../inversify-container";
import { TYPES } from "../../inversify-types";
import { ViewStore } from "../../stores/view/ViewStore";
import { CategoryStore } from "../../stores/categories/CategoryStore";
import { observable, action } from "mobx/lib/mobx";
import { CategoryRequest } from "../../stores/categories/model/CategoryRequest";
import { Category } from "../../stores/categories/model/Category";
import { MonetaryAmount } from "../../stores/utils/monetary-amount/MonetaryAmount";
import { CategoryTableRow } from "../CategoryTableRow";
import { Container, Table, Button, Icon, Menu } from "semantic-ui-react";
import { CategoryEditorModal } from "../CategoryEditorModal";
import { DeleteConfirmModal } from "../DeleteConfirmModal";
import { TransactionStore } from "../../stores/transactions/TransactionStore";
import { TransactionRequest } from "../../stores/transactions/model/TransactionRequest";
import { Transaction } from "../../stores/transactions/model/Transaction";
import * as moment from 'moment';
import { TransactionTableRow } from "../TransactionTableRow";
import { TransactionEditorModal } from "../TransactionEditorModal";
import { observer } from "mobx-react";
import { authorized } from "../authorized";
import { RouterStore } from 'mobx-react-router';
import { Pagination } from "../Pagination";
import { Page } from "../../stores/utils/page/Page";
import { TransactionClient } from "../../stores/transactions/client/TransactionClient";

@authorized({ authenticated: true })
@observer
export class TransactionsPage extends Component<{}, {}> {
    @lazyInject(TYPES.ViewStore) private viewStore: ViewStore;
    @lazyInject(TYPES.CategoryStore) private categoryStore: CategoryStore;
    @lazyInject(TYPES.TransactionStore) private transactionStore: TransactionStore;
    @lazyInject(TYPES.RouterStore) private routerStore: RouterStore;
    @lazyInject(TYPES.TransactionClient) private transactionClient: TransactionClient;

    @observable editing?: TransactionRequest | Transaction;
    @observable deleting?: Transaction;

    @observable page?: Page<Transaction>;

    async componentDidMount() {
        if (this.viewStore.selectedBudget == null) {
            throw new Error('No selected budget');
        }
        this.page =  new Page(await this.transactionClient.findByBudget(this.viewStore.selectedBudget, {page: 0, sort: {property: 'occurredOn', direction: 'DESC'}})).map(it => this.transactionStore.updateFromServer(it));
    }

    @action onEditClick = (transaction: Transaction) => {
        this.editing = transaction.copy();
    }

    @action onDeleteClick = (transaction: Transaction) => {
        this.deleting = transaction;
    }

    @action onCreateClick = () => {
        this.editing = new TransactionRequest({
            occurredOn: moment(),
            amount: { amount: 0, currency: 'USD' },
            category: undefined,
            description: ''
        });
    }

    @action onEditAccept = async (transaction: Transaction | TransactionRequest) => {
        await this.transactionStore.save(transaction);
        this.editing = undefined;
    }

    @action onEditCancel = (transaction: Transaction | TransactionRequest) => {
        this.editing = undefined;
    }

    @action onDeleteAccept = () => {
        if (!this.deleting) {
            return;
        }
        this.transactionStore.delete(this.deleting);
        this.deleting = undefined;
    }

    @action onDeleteCancel = () => {
        this.deleting = undefined;
    }

    @action onImportFromCSVClick = () => {
        this.routerStore.push('/transactions/import');
    }

    @action private goToPage = async (pageNum: number) => {
        if (this.viewStore.selectedBudget == null) {
            throw new Error('No selected budget');
        }
        console.log("Going to page " + (pageNum - 1));
        this.page =  new Page(await this.transactionClient.findByBudget(this.viewStore.selectedBudget, {page: pageNum - 1, sort: {property: 'occurredOn', direction: 'DESC'}})).map(it => this.transactionStore.updateFromServer(it));
    }

    render() {
        const budget = this.viewStore.selectedBudget;
        if (!budget) {
            return null;
        }

        if (!this.page) {
            return null;
        }

        const page = this.page.content;
        const numPages = this.page.totalPages;
        const rows = page.map(it => <TransactionTableRow key={it.id} transaction={it} onEditClick={this.onEditClick} onDeleteClick={this.onDeleteClick} />)
        const deleteMessage = this.deleting ? 'Transaction ' + this.deleting.amount.amount + ' ' + this.deleting.description + ' ' + this.deleting.category.name : undefined;

        // const pagination =

        return (
            <Container className="TransactionsPage">
                <TransactionEditorModal transaction={this.editing} onSave={this.onEditAccept} onCancel={this.onEditCancel} />
                <DeleteConfirmModal message={deleteMessage} onAccept={this.onDeleteAccept} onReject={this.onDeleteCancel} />
                <Button onClick={this.onImportFromCSVClick}>Import from CSV</Button>
                <Table celled compact>
                    <Table.Header fullWidth>
                        <Table.Row>
                            <Table.HeaderCell>Occurred On</Table.HeaderCell>
                            <Table.HeaderCell>Amount</Table.HeaderCell>
                            <Table.HeaderCell>Description</Table.HeaderCell>
                            <Table.HeaderCell>Category</Table.HeaderCell>
                            <Table.HeaderCell />
                        </Table.Row>
                    </Table.Header>

                    <Table.Body>
                        {rows}
                    </Table.Body>

                    <Table.Footer fullWidth>
                        <Table.Row>
                            <Table.HeaderCell colSpan="5">
                                <Pagination size="small" activePage={this.page.number + 1} onSelect={this.goToPage} items={numPages}/>
                                <Button icon labelPosition="left" floated="right" primary onClick={this.onCreateClick}><Icon name="plus" /> Add Transaction</Button>
                            </Table.HeaderCell>
                        </Table.Row>
                    </Table.Footer>
                </Table>
            </Container>
        )
    }
}


text:
Label: CONCORD RECORDS
In Search Of Mona Lisa EP
Artist: Santana
1. Do You Remember Me (9:49)
2. In Search of Mona Lisa (5:09)
3. Lovers from Another Time (4:44)
4. Do You Remember Me (Edit Version) (3:28)
5. In Search of Mona Lisa (Edit Version) (3:52)
In Search of Mona Lisa is the dramatic new EP from the legendary Santana. Three spellbinding and transportive new songs take listeners inside a magical and deeply personal experience Carlos Santana had when he visited the Louvre and set his eyes on Leonardo da Vinci's beguiling masterpiece. The EP was produced by Narada Michael Walden and Carlos Santana.


text:
Coronavirus and luxury retail: Shopping for used Hermes, Cartier in Covid era
The RealReal exterior
Soruce: CNBC
No matter what it's called — resale, re-commerce, luxury consignment or pre-loved — the market for secondhand fashion was booming before the Covid-19 pandemic upended the lives, and financial security, of millions of people.
All those clothes in your closet? The ones you haven't worn in years, but just can't bring yourself to get rid of, or even donate? Well, how about selling them? A growing number of consumers in recent years were beginning to view the items in their wardrobe not just as a means of expressing their personal style, but as valuable, tradable assets. That Gucci or Hermes bag costing thousands of dollars and that you once loved, but no longer use? Rather than sitting on a shelf, collecting dust, you can now put it on an online secondhand retail site such as The RealReal, Poshmark or ThredUp, and get cash for it.
Luxury apparel and accessories consignment grew to a $24 billion market before Covid, and has been projected to reach $51 billion by 2023, driven largely — but not exclusively — by millennials and Gen Z. At the high end, there's The RealReal, which deals in authenticated luxury goods from designers such as Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Valentino. For pure variety, there's ThredUp, which boasts that customers can buy and sell more than 45,000 brands — everything from Gap to Gucci. Other sites, like Poshmark and Depop let customers buy and sell directly from each other.
According to ThredUp, over the past three years, the apparel resale business grew 21 times faster than sales of new clothing. And although 18- to 37-year-olds are adopting secondhand apparel 2.5 times faster than their older counterparts, Boomers and Gen X'ers are also embracing this segment of the market, as Boomers, in particular, declutter their closets and look for ways to get rid of clothing, handbags, and other accessories they've had for years. Each of those demographics has seen its purchases of secondhand fashion increase by double digits since 2017, according to ThredUp's research.
The pandemic has led even more people to consider the future of their closets.
"We've seen a strong uptick in supply, with many people spending more time at home staring at their full closets and looking to earn some extra cash," said ThredUp president Anthony Marino. ThredUp's 2020 Resale Report found that 50% of people are cleaning out their closets more than they were pre-Covid.
May was a record-breaking month for new site visits, and shoppers spent 2.2 million hours browsing ThredUp in May, a 31% increase post-Covid, according to ThredUp's 2020 Resale Report.
Cash-strapped, 'uber-casual' lifestyle vs. luxury
It's not yet clear whether a more cash-strapped consumer market is a bullish or bearish sign for the resale sector, especially at the higher-end. More people are interested in selling possessions, but who will be there to buy them in a world where secondhand workout clothes like Lululemon may seem more essential?
"More supply of goods is likely because of Covid, above and beyond pre-Covid, as people no longer believe they have to hold possessions for an entire lifetime. … In Covid, people are broke so looking at their closet and thinking, 'cash is hanging there,'" said Mark Cohen, the director of retail studies at New York City's Columbia Business School. But he added that everything has been distorted by Covid and it remains "anyone's guess" as to who survives in retail on the other side of the crisis, and that includes newer companies like The RealReal and ThredUp, which for all the buzz surrounding them, he thinks may fail to find a large enough number of consumers during the Covid era.
"The lifestyle everyone has adopted is uber-casual. Casual on steroids now. The RealReal has cash flow issues if all they are doing is buying without a counterparty to sell to," Cohen said. "'I haven't used a handbag in a year, and I'm broke, and if The RealReal wants it, that will by cool,'" Cohen said of what may be going through a potential seller's mind, but it's the other end of the transaction where the question remains: "Do you really want to have that handbag to wear to a party? It's $6,000 and you can get it for $1,000 now, but you're not going to that party, there is no party."
Milton Pedraza, founder of the Luxury Institute, said more people are going on resale sites to sell their possessions out of necessity, including higher-income people who have lost jobs, "well-heeled people with expensive possessions," especially among the so-called HENRYS (high earners not rich yet), who may be eager to sell their high-end apparel and accessories, or start to do so if anxiety and insecurity continues to rise. But that has created a lot more supply than demand to soak it up.
Demand for these products will be far less than supply and many middle and upper class people won't admit it, but they are doing it
Milton Pedraza
founder of the Luxury Institute
There will be consumers increasingly impacted by the Covid economic fallout, furloughed or laid off and losing short-term government assistance.
"Demand for these products will be far less than supply and many middle and upper class people won't admit it, but they are doing it," Pedraza said, and that includes all the white-collar workers, entrepreneurs and gig workers who are now suffering economically. "This is worse than 2008 in a way, spread out among lots of people and unless there is a really big stimulus package, we will see a reckoning," he said. "Across all income segments, unless multi-millionaire, people will feel pain or already are feeling pain."
Luxury market demand in the U.S. may fall more over the next 18 to 36 months, he said. "Right now, lots of brand are depending on China more than the U.S. and Europe."
The pandemic has already been cited in one massive luxury market deal that just fell apart, the planned merger of LVMH and Tiffany.
The coronavirus has forced the business models of resale companies to adjust to several short-term and potentially longer-term realities: difficulties finding inventory to stock when many fashionistas have fled big city homes (and access to their closets); ways to meet with consignment partners that meet Covid guidelines; the fact that many Americans are hunkered down not just physically but financially and focused on shopping for essentials; and the lack of physical social events that spur high-end apparel and accessory purchases.
Julie Wainwright, founder and CEO of The RealReal
Photo courtesy The RealReal
Investors are not sure what to think of The RealReal right now. While the stock is almost half of the value of its first-day trade after its May 2019 IPO, which led to quick and sizable stock market gains, it has rebounded somewhat from March lows and is trading at roughly the same value that it was afforded by the market at the beginning of 2020, pre-Covid. The IPO priced at $20 per share and saw the company's stock value climb as high as $28 shortly thereafter, but sank as low as $6 in March before being stuck closer to the range of its 200-day moving average of $14.
Revenue decreased 21% for the company in its most recent quarter ended June 30, while its net loss grew to near-$43 million, up from roughly $26 million in the same period a year ago.
Founder and CEO Julie Wainwright has pointed to an improving situation as the company has moved further away from the early Covid shutdowns. She noted in its August earnings that the key market of New York returned to growth in the month of July, even though many city dwellers had fled and lacked access to their home closets, though Los Angeles was still lagging due to California Covid cases, while social unrest and protests during the spring and summer added to market issues.
Supply is recovering at The RealReal, said CFO Matthew Gustke on its August earnings call, but he was not willing to attribute that to any single factor when asked by an analyst about people stuck at home cleaning out their closets.
"We haven't certainly done consumer research to understand the motivation during Covid for people consigning, but our supply trends have been consistently more and more encouraging. So certainly, to some extent, that is — as people settle into their stay at home routines, they are cleaning up closets and doing that. … There's a case to be made that once New Yorkers come back, that there could be quite a strong rebound and the surge of supply coming out of New York."
While apparel sales have been down, Wainwright said handbags and jewelry, along with home furnishings and art, are selling better than the company anticipated. "We've always seen price compression and the most impact is in apparel. Well, handbags, jewelry, home art men's have all popped up. Apparel is actually the slowest to recover. … It's becoming a less important part of our mix … our mix has changed towards the higher value items, which we do expect to continue."
The RealReal quickly went to curbside pickup and virtual appointments for consignment partners. Prior to Covid, it had inside sales teams and "white glove" treatment. With the virtual appointments and curbside pickup, it sends a van, but the company says the combination is working similar to the in-home consultation. It expects in-home appointments to eventually return, but told Wall Street analysts that virtual plus curbside pickup is a "more efficient and effective" trade-off to white glove appointments.
The company is betting this Covid change is here to stay, with a substantially greater number of appointments per day per salesperson than in the model where they were traveling in between appointments.
"I don't personally see a scenario where it goes back the way that it was where we have the majority of our products coming from in-home appointments. I think the new norm virtual is a large component of the new norm," Gustke told analysts.
Department stores and resale
Not surprisingly, secondhand apparel has been getting the attention of some of the biggest legacy players in retailing.
Stores, including Macy's, Nordstrom, and Gap, tapped into the resale market not only to help them attract younger customers, but also to reinvigorate their own stagnating sales across the board.
In August 2019, Macy's announced a 40-store pilot program with ThredUp to sell secondhand clothing. Nordstrom began selling secondhand apparel, shoes, and accessories at its New York City flagship store, in early 2020.
ThredUp's Marino says his company's partnering with legacy retailers "speaks to the mainstream acceptance of secondhand clothing, and advances resale in a way that's never been done before."
By offering secondhand goods, alongside the new merchandise they sell, retailers are showing that they're listening to customers and serving up the kind of goods they want. They're also trying to get younger customers in the door.
Retailer interest in what ThredUp refers to as its resale-as-a-service (RAAS) platform has picked up over the past six months. ThredUp is now behind apparel resale experiences for over a dozen brands, with Gap, Reebok, Abercrombie & Fitch and Walmart launching in the midst of the pandemic.
"Forward-thinking retailers seem to recognize that resale delivers the value and sustainability that their customers demand," Marino said.
Macy's CEO Jeff Gennette said at the time of the ThredUp deal the company was trying to reach beyond its core customers by selling styles and brands that it typically doesn't carry.
And while the move is seen by some as a smart way to get a better return on expensive department store real estate, others are less bullish, and doubt whether these efforts will receive much focus, or lead to much success, for legacy players facing immense challenges in the pandemic.
"I don't think selling new stuff next to used stuff is going to turn the tide for any of these department stores," Cohen said. "I don't fault retailers like Macy's and Nordstrom for getting into this market. They absolutely need to attract younger customers."
But he remains skeptical of the department store efforts to make the resale shelves work. "This was Macy's flailing a 'Hail Mary' even pre-Covid," he said. "Department stores are not going out of business tomorrow, but they're grasping at straws by putting a ThredUp in place, trying to be relevant to a customer that already abandoned them."
"It's going to be carnage out there," The RealReal's Wainwright told analysts about the retail sector. "I think that's going to be our gain during this period of time. And it does make me sad to think the retailers that are primarily a retail company are going to have such a hard time. But we're in a unique position to get stronger due to that."
"Flavor of the day," Pedraza said of the Macy's-ThredUp deal.
He said the biggest issue for department stores in these deals is that the resale business is siloed, whereas the department store needs to sell customers across a dozen categories in a deeper relationship for it to succeed. And he said they tend to pursue these new initiatives as "hobbies."
"They never take it seriously. They are rolling the dice on low probability," said Pedraza.
Luxury market is up for grabs, and Amazon knows it
A quick look at the number of store closings and retail bankruptcies over the past decade is proof of the seismic shifts taking place in this industry, and the pandemic has accelerated the failure rate in the industry.
The pandemic has given Macy's an opportunity, but distinct from mass-market resale: it wants to attract more of the luxury market as high-end retailers go under or close stores.
"Look at luxury right now, look at Neiman's, look at parts of Lord & Taylor," Macy's CEO Jeff Gennette told CNBC in a recent interview on the heels of the company's second-quarter earnings report. "There is opportunity for us. … Customers have got time on their hands. They can't travel. They were budgeting for travel, and they want to reward themselves," Gennette said.
"No one knows when this will be over and it will have an enormous impact on the sector," Cohen said. "There's already breakage in the retail business, the drip, drip, drip of bankruptcies and store closings, and layer on top consumers not buying apparel right now, just essentials and home furnishing."
A recent ominous sign that market share is up for grabs in the high-end retail shakeout: Amazon just announced the launch of Luxury Stores, its latest attempt to find a winning luxury retail formula.
Pedraza thinks more luxury brands will take control of the consumer relationship directly using online sales, and that will include the resale market.
"Lots of brands can go direct and all will go direct to consumers at some point. … We will see more European and Asian groups take back the resale business. Buying previously owned is viable. Brands like Gucci and Chanel are viable and will have pre-owned themselves and may take out the higher end of the sector. Brands can do it so no one gets counterfeits, and they get money and preserve the brand. It will be perfectly acceptable and profitable. Covid has forced everybody to rethink everything."
But for some brands, the upheaval could also include being willing to work with Amazon.
"I've been writing Amazon off forever but if they can guarantee no counterfeits, and control pricing, they will succeed. Brands don't have to worry about logistics. The only question is who owns the customer. High-end, high demand brands will go direct to customers more and more. Amazon can wipe out an online luxury retail platform like FarFetch," Pedraza said.
Technology's rising role in retail
If there's one thing that distinguishes yesterday's musty secondhand shops from today's online entities, it's technology. The ability to quickly and efficiently facilitate the buying and selling of thousands of items from scores of individuals requires machine learning and data analysis that just wasn't possible decades ago.
Marino said the company has recirculated over 100 million items, and is able to process more than one item per second (on average). The company says it employs engineers who formerly worked at SpaceX and Netflix designing its massive logistics and supply chain infrastructure. "Our pricing algorithms can detect the value of any garment in a tenth of a second," Marino said.
A ThredUp warehouse.
Source: ThredUp
While the RealReal uses human authenticators to examine and price the luxury goods it puts up on its site, which has attracted some controversy, companies dealing with lower-priced goods — and lots of them — need to rely on technology to make their business models work.
"The ability to make communication easier between buyers and sellers is the primary role of technology in this space, and one of the reasons why this segment been able to grow so fast," Pedraza said.
But he thinks the industry remains a long way from the AI that will make the biggest difference in terms of customer satisfaction and profit margin. On the supply chain side of things, technology is advanced, but in terms of transactions and location data and browsing data that allows retail companies to personalize the shopping experience so well it increases sales and decreases cost, such as returns, "the AI data is not there yet," he said. When the industry can combine data and emotional intelligence, it will be a great client experience and the economics will improve, but not even Amazon is able to do anything near that AI future yet, and data privacy concerns still loom as a potential long-term issue.
Luxury, and resale, will survive Covid
Some of the trends that industry experts say fueled the secondhand market boom won't change due to the pandemic.
Secondhand clothing stores have been around for decades, but there is a growing number of consumers and a radically diminished stigma attached to the secondhand market. Pre-loved or vintage fashion is now considered not only hip and cool, but environmentally responsible as well, says Jill Standish, senior managing director at professional services firm Accenture, and head of its global retail practice.
Millennials, she says, "want to own high-end brands, and the ability to get them for a fraction of the price in the secondhand market is especially appealing to them," and a greater move to digital sales during Covid-19 can help the resale sector, which has a strong online presence.
I think consumers are saying it's OK to take something that's been idle in someone's closet and buy it. They understand that's got to be better than to keep producing everything new.
Jill Standish
Accenture senior managing director
Younger shoppers not only care about how their clothes are made, but the impact they're having on the environment once they get rid of them. Resale — and, in fact, the whole circular economy — extends the lifespan of an item. ThredUp's research with GreenStory shows that returning just one clothing item back into the circular economy extends its life by an average of 2.2 years and reduces its carbon, waste, and water footprints by 82%.
"Consumers are shopping with their values," Standish said. "They care about climate change and the impact of apparel on the environment and that's why they're more attracted to pre-owned and pre-loved clothing."
A world where social media documents our every move (and every outfit), and landfills are overflowing with mountains of discarded clothing, supports the rise of resale. "I think consumers are saying it's OK to take something that's been idle in someone's closet and buy it," she said. "They understand that's got to be better than to keep producing everything new."
Longer-term, Pedraza is bullish on the return of luxury buying. "We will be dressing up again, at some point. The way we went, athleisure … my working hypothesis is that handbags and other accessories will be desirable. There is a feeling that we won't be back to normal dressing up and going out. It may become less prevalent, but it will still be popular," he said.
But he is less sure about the business models of the resale start-ups, since customer acquisition costs are high for what can easily become a commoditized business, and customer retention and return costs add to economics that are not better than traditional retail store economics.
"No one has Amazon skills. Even Amazon, if it didn't have Amazon Web Services, lots of its profit would be gone," Pedraza said. "Low margins, fighting competition, and when fighting to acquire customers and having to discount, it's not a very profitable model long term. There will be a few winners but they will consolidate and have thin margins. It will take attrition for winners to emerge and now is not a good time."
It could be even worse for a start-up, though: they could be Rent The Runway. With the need to rent high-end apparel and accessories for events like wedding no longer a part of most people's lives, Rent The Runway has had to make recent moves to refocus its business on digital, closing all of the physical stores it had expanded into. It laid off staff early in the pandemic and cut investment spending, but it also has raised more capital since March, though at a lower valuation. "That business is nowhere. It needs a new model. It could easily be 2022," before this situation is back to normal, Cohen said.
But on the other hand, the RealReal's focus on accessories as a bright spot during Covid, as apparel sales fall, is nothing to get too excited about, Cohen said. "They have to put on as happy a face as possible," said the retail expert, though he added that when the Covid shakeout is done it could be one of the eventual winners. "If they have a great client base on both sides, and can sort and authenticate, and have the supply chain, the logistics right, and automate, then I think they can make money for sure, and they have the brand name now."
ThredUp has been the subject of recent reports it may pursue an IPO early next year. It declined to comment on that.
"ThredUp has the motivation to do an IPO to raise cash, that is obvious," Cohen said, but whether investor interest will be there remains to be seen, he added.
WHO says the coronavirus is killing about 50,000 people a week: 'That is not where we want to be'Bank trading floors could be poised for a makeover in the wake of Covid-19


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Bush Finally Speaks Out About Trump And The Downfall Of The Republican Party
It's been a while since the world has heard from former president George W. Bush. However, in a rare TV interview, he let loose, sharing his thoughts about the direction of the republican party. He brought up issues about misinformation and defined the Trump era as "isolationist, protectionist and, to a certain extent, nativist."
It "Made Me Sick"
The topics introduced in the interview covered everything from his presidency to his thoughts about the current state of the republican party. Bush expressed his feelings about the Insurrection on January 6th, claiming it "made me sick." He didn't blame Trump for the incident but lightly tiptoed around the idea that his Twitter choices added fuel to the fire.
When asked about the future of the Republican party, Bush expressed thoughts of concern, claiming that the current party-splitting taking place is dangerous and will wind up leading the democrats to another victory come 2024. The radicalism and cult-like followers of the Trump clan are ruining the party, taking away from the traditional conservative values of republicanism.
Still, so much of these concerns and thoughts seem to have come at the perfect time, with Bush pushing his new book. Instead of standing out there on the frontline and taking measures to close gaps in the party, Bush was silent. Though he wasn't out fighting against Trump, he was making connections with immigrants for his new book "Out of Many, One: Portraits of America's Immigrants." Bush has always taken a firmer stance on immigration, hoping to secure the border and enforce humane treatment of children that cross the border unaccompanied.
While immigration is reaching all new heights under the Biden administration, Bush couldn't have chosen a better time to release his book. Though it's a coincidence, Bush does make a good argument, standing up to defend and protect those coming to the United States illegally. He warned about name-calling and misinformation that most often accompanies political agendas when taking steps to secure the borders, expressing, "I hope that these faces, and the stories that accompany them, serve as a reminder that immigration isn't just a part of our heritage."
Reconstruction of the GOP
Those republicans that did take a stand faced scrutiny and shame, often the victim of harsh online battering and defamation. Still, Bush is not the only one that sunk in the shadows while Trump was in power. Former speaker of the House John Boehner didn't say much, leading Joe Walsh to tweet, "…Like Boehner, you come out NOW and speak out against Trumpism? NOW? So many of us former Republicans lost everything publicly opposing Trump these past few years, yet you said & did nothing. And NOW you speak?" Many Republicans feel the failures of their efforts to put the pieces of their party back together, and their healing will take some time.
Biden's administration is sure to be filled with more republicans just like Bush speaking out about their last reign. It's going to take efforts to bring the party together again and change the image left by the previous candidate.
How Politics Makes Us Stupid: Why We're Tired of the Hypocrisy
Breaking News In The January 6th Insurrection


My passion is my family. I am grateful for the lessons learned from my dad: happiness comes from the simple things in life & to appreciate nature. He taught me the value of a handshake. He was an amazing influence in my life & still guides me daily.
More than 30 years Insurance experience, Member of the "Million Dollar Round Table"
The Nationwide Insurance: Richard W. Leet in Lakewood, PA provides the following products. To learn more about each insurance product, click on the links below.
Old and new cars of all makes and models should be protected with a dependable car insurance plan from a dedicated agent like Rick Leet. Richard W. Leet will guide you to find an insurance plan that fits your needs. We also have teamed up with Nationwide to ensure you have everything you need to protect your vehicle and everyone in it.
The way you drive your car, your car's safety and security features, and where you park your car in Lakewood are all factors that have an impact on how much you'll pay for insurance. In addition to these factors, we look for every available discount that you qualify for to provide you with the greatest possible savings. We may not be able to save you money at the pump, but we'll do our best to see if you qualify for discounts on your auto insurance. There are also a number of coverage options you can add on your policy, all of which we'll be more than happy to go over with you.
There's no need to take chances while you're behind the wheel. Relax and enjoy the ride knowing that you've got the right auto insurance plan from Richard W. Leet. Feel free to pay us a visit at our location at 18 Como Road or call (570) 798-2666.
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For straightforward solutions to your home insurance needs in Lakewood, don't hesitate to visit with the agents in our office at 18 Como Road. Alternatively, we also conduct consultations and assist with purchases over the phone at (570) 798-2666.
If you are thinking about purchasing a life insurance policy in Lakewood, you might have a few concerns about the process. You are probably familiar with purchasing insurance for your vehicles and home. However, life insurance requires you to exercise a little more due diligence. Think of life insurance as a long-term, personal investment. The right coverage can provide financial stability for your family. The wrong coverage could leave them with unexpected expenses.
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You want the best rates possible for your budget. For you to receive it, you need to consider which types of life insurance you need. Making this decision is not always easy. Fortunately, Rick Leet and any of our team members are available to assist. There is some industry language you may not be familiar with that can make it challenging for you to understand policy options. We also offer different levels of coverage with varying death benefits and payment options.
Your policy is only as good as your insurer's reputation, experience and coverage options. To learn more about our products and how they can benefit you, call (570) 798-2666 to speak with one of our team members, or stop by 18 Como Road,Lakewood,PA,18439 to discuss your insurance needs in our office.
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Through Nationwide, our agents offer business insurance for Lakewood companies that operate in a wide range of industries from food and beverage to building management to professional contractors. Product offerings include liability, property, and commercial auto insurance. For some companies, it's also crucial to get operating loss coverage to ensure money is coming in even if something forces their business to close shop for a time. Likewise, flexible billing options help you meet premium obligations regardless of how your company's budget is structured.
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The Richard W. Leet also offers products in NY, PA. Please call for information on products in those states.
In 1938 my grandfather R.H. Leet started the Leet Agency when he joined the "Ohio Farm Bureau" Insurance Company. Back then insurance was a part-time business as R.H. also owned a dairy farm. In 1960 my dad Nelson took over the farm and insurance agency. By then it changed to "Nationwide Insurance". I followed my dad's path and joined in 1983 after graduating from Bloomsburg University. I moved the business from the farm house to a new building I built in Lakewood.
We care. My team is very unique and they really work for our clients. We will get to know you. I invite you to test our office motto "Customer First". You will learn first hand that we are here for you. Insurance is about service and protection, when you have a claim we ask you call us, not an 800 number.


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Prosecutors: No death penalty for man accused of killing wife in Catawba County
Man accused of killing wife in Catawba County, sparking manhunt faces judge
Updated: June 26, 2019 - 5:46 AM
CATAWBA COUNTY, N.C. — Catawba County prosecutors said they will not seek the death penalty against a man accused of kill his wife in April, sparking a days-long manhunt.
Channel 9 crews were there when Joseph Barker was taken into custody in the woods near Highway 64 in Transylvania County in April.
Investigators had been searching for Barker since a woman was found shot to death inside a Catawba County home.
"We wanted to keep that pressure on overhead and to keep that pressure on the ground too," Transylvania County Sheriff David Mahoney said.
[ALSO READ: 3 men lied about shooting, robbery, Catawba County sheriff says]
According to the sheriff, the woman, identified as 43-year-old Crystal Johnson Barker, was found inside a home along Plateau Road just south of Hickory.
"You're really not thinking about much at that point except the old training -- all the years of doing this," Mahoney said. "They just naturally kick in, and you go in and do what you have to do to take them into custody."
Channel 9's Dave Faherty confirmed with deputies Barker did not have a weapon, food or water with him when he was found.
"He did not give himself up," Transylvania County Capt. Jeremy Queen said. "I'm not sure if he might have been getting some rest, sleeping or something to that effect. He was hiding but didn't give himself up."
WANTED: Authorities have released a wanted poster for Joseph Barker. He's accused of murdering his wife Tuesday night in Catawba County. If you see him, call 911. pic.twitter.com/e9h2GZEJxp
— WSOCTV (@wsoctv) April 25, 2019
Channel 9 was there as Catawba County deputies, the State Bureau of Investigation and the North Carolina State Highway Patrol were at the home, canvassing the area for clues.
Officials told Channel 9 the couple's two teenage children were in the house when the crime happened but were not hurt.
Detectives believed Barker was driving a black 1999 Toyota Camry with North Carolina tag CHX-2208.
Breaking Catawba- deputies have taken out murder warrant against Joseph Barker in the shooting death of his wife. Deputies just confirmed they believe he wrecked the Toyota Camry in Transylvania County on Highway 64. Active search in that area. pic.twitter.com/AduugS0I1O
— Dave Faherty (@FahertyWSOC9) April 24, 2019
According to Channel 9's partners, WLOS, Barker wrecked that Camry along Highway 64 in Transylvania County, southwest of Asheville.
Transylvania County authorities told WLOS that a vehicle registered to Barker was involved in a single-car wreck along Old Rosman Highway in Rosman, but that Barker was still at large.
Credit: WLOS
According to officials, Transylvania County schools were placed on a soft lockdown while authorities searched for Barker.
Officials said Barker was captured about a mile away from the crash scene in a heavily wooded area Thursday afternoon.
Breaking- Suspect was captured in heavily wooded area about a mile from where he wrecked. Being checked by now. pic.twitter.com/eGLlowQW5A
Channel 9 spoke to several neighbors who said they are in disbelief, especially because there were children in the home.
"They better find him. That's all I can say," neighbor Elizabeth Ray said. "They need to do something to him. Too close to home. I guess that's why I keep my doors locked."
Family members and neighbors said they have no idea of a possible motive behind the shooting, but said their thoughts are with the teenage children who were home when the shooting happened.
"Thoughts and prayers are for all the sons down there and the other son in Texas. Hopefully, they're taken care of in their prayers and everything," neighbor Billy Sutton said.
Residents in the area said they were not taking any chances with a murder suspect on the loose.
"I've got a 12-gauge pump shotgun loaded and ready," Melinda McCall said. "If he comes in my house, he won't make it out."
Channel 9 was there as Barker was loaded into the back of an ambulance after being taken into custody.
"I would like to send a huge thank you to the Transylvania County Sheriff's Office, U.S. Marshals Service, SBI, NCSHP and all of the agencies involved in the search for Joseph Barker. They all worked tirelessly through the night and day to find Joseph Barker and to bring him to justice," Catawba County Sheriff Don Brown said.
Barker stumbled into the courtroom Friday, keeping his head down as the judge told him he was charged with murdering his wife.
At one point, the judge asked him if he wanted a court-appointed attorney, and he mumbled something no one, including the judge, could hear.
As Barker left the courtroom, deputies grabbed on to him as he appeared to lose his balance.
Channel 9 learned his court appearance was delayed because he refused to put on his clothes.
Records show Crystal Barker took out a domestic violence order against her husband in 2004, but that order was later dismissed.
This is an ongoing investigation. Check back with wsoctv.com for updates.
CDC warns about dangerous 'Kissing Bug' spreading north into Carolinas
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Creditors actively chased down repayment for outstanding debts in May 2012 with Judgments totalling EUR34m awarded in their favour.
During last month we saw over 300 judgments awarded against Irish companies and consumers by the courts for unpaid debts. 200 of these judgments were against consumers and totalled €26.6m - the second highest value of judgments awarded in 2012.
Almost €10m of this was awarded to the banking sector in 29 separate rulings. The Collector General received the 74 judgment awards, worth €3.4m, against consumers.
A further €7.3m was awarded against Irish companies - the highest value for commercial judgments awarded in 2012 - in 104 separate rulings.
Of the commercial judgments awarded, the Office of the Collector General was again the main beneficiary with 23 rulings in its favour totalling almost €1m.
The high level of judgments awarded further illustrates that debtors are struggling to repay debts and creditors are struggling to be paid.
Added to this, May saw approximately 5 company insolvencies a day with 150 business failures recorded between the 1st and 28th of the month.
109 of these companies were liquidated while another 36 had a receiver appointed. The remaining companies each had an Examiner appointed to them. The average age of each of these companies was just under 13 years old.
Despite roughly 115 Company and Businesses being formed each day last month, the figure for start-ups that we saw (3,240) was down 9% on the same period in 2011.


text:
'I wrote a song for Dublin - and I hope they sing it after lifting Sam'
Alan Brogan, Deirdre Flynn and Michael Darragh McAuley
Alan Brogan and Richie Larkin Michael Darragh McAuley
Robin Schiller
A SINGLE penned ahead of the All-Ireland football final is aiming to raise much-needed funds for the Make-a-Wish Foundation, with the hope that Dublin players will sing the song if they lift the Sam Maguire on Sunday.
Dublin supporter Deirdre Flynn (39) wrote the song in just two hours, after being challenged by The Invincibles singer Paul Stone.
It was Deirdre's first attempt at writing a song, and it has reportedly went down well with Jim Gavin's men.
"Basically, after the Fermanagh game I asked the singer of The Invincibles where the song for the final was," Deirdre told the Herald. "He said it was in progress.
"When I told him to hurry up, he challenged me to come up with a song. I've never written a song before, but it was done in two hours," she added.
The song - named A Little Boy's Dream - is about a child's wish to play in an All-Ireland Football final and ultimately lift the Sam Maguire trophy.
The Dublin team was treated to a rendition of the song on Saturday night at the Powerscourt Hotel, with the panel seemingly impressed by the performance.
"Dean Rock was adamant it was about him and Kevin McManamon is tipped to be singing it on the All-Ireland night when Sam comes home."
Hoses, goals, pubs and boots - 1970s clashes were fierce, remembers Dubs legendary 'keeper Paddy Cullen
Divided family loyalties as true blue Breda sticks to her guns


I've learnt my lesson not to use my equipment out in dust storms. Legit cackling that I didn't see the dust spots (I didn't have any prior to the day of the shoot). I assumed the spots were on my equally dust messed laptop screen.
Proudly hosted by Sargasso Networks. Current Server Time: 04/25/2019 07:42:35 PM EDT.


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De nuevo nunca es el nombre del primer disco de la banda  gallega de rap metal Kannon.

Es el disco más duro y orientado al metal que lanzó la banda, con influencias de  bandas como Korn o Limp Bizkit. "Pump Up the Jam" es una versión de Technotronic. Los primeros versos de "Uno de Esos Días" son una semejanza a los de la canción de Limp Bizkit "Break Stuff", y el puente de "Ruido" hace lo propio con el de "Pollution" del mismo grupo.

Lista de canciones

Créditos
Vicente Folgar "Cody MC" - voz
David Álvarez - guitarra
Juan López - guitarra
Óscar Durán "Uka" - bajo
Daniel de Castro "hbt. Ouzo" - batería

Enlaces externos
De Nuevo Nunca en discogs

Referencias

Álbumes de España de 2000
Álbumes de Zero Records
Álbumes de rap metal
Álbumes de nu metal
Álbumes en español


text:
by ritcheyz
Part 2: The origin of Trip's character from the original story.
Xuanzang, the character that Tripitaka (this name comes from the name for the earliest known Buddhist texts) is modeled after, is the original reason the Journey to the West story exists. Being very religious from a young age, he studied classic Chinese literature and delved deep into the meaning of Buddhism. Because of this, he decided that he wanted to seek out more information -- his quest to find sacred texts of Buddhism led him from the city of Luoyang in China to India, a seventeen-year-long journey. Upon his return, he translated about 1,300 articles of Sanskrit Buddhist text into Chinese, and his translation of a particular Sutra (the Heart Sutra) remains the standard for East Asian Buddhism. He also founded a school, Faxiang, whose philosophies would later find their way into other schools even though Faxiang itself didn't last very long.
Wu Cheng'en, during the Ming dynasty, would later take his story and turn it into the classic Chinese text Journey to the West, with a lot of obvious changes.
First off, if you're looking something much closer to the original text, i.e., something that adheres to a similar plot structure, read the Saiyuki: Journey West LP.
The original story begins with Xuanzang receiving a visit from the bodhisattva Guan Yin, who tells him that the lands of Southern China are a bog of hedonism and sin, and that only Buddhism will help clear the darkness. Guan Yin tells him to take Buddhist sutras from India and bring them back. The world of China described in the story is fantastical; Xuanzang frequently encounters demons and all manner of supernatural beings.
His first encounter is with Sun Wukong ("awakened to emptiness"), and upon freeing him from his entrapment by Buddha for defying Heaven, Guan Yin places a magic ring on his head (i.e. Tripitaka placing the headband on him). Instead of activating it from a console, or manipulating his vision at all, Xuanzang can only chant a Ring Tightening Mantra which helps keep Sun Wukong in check; despite his intelligence, Sun Wukong is an incredibly violent god, but extremely helpful to Xuanzang throughout his journey.
Anywho, making the Xuanzang character a female isn't as out-there as it might first seem. Saiyuki: Journey West gave you the option of making Xuanzang male or female, and this is because the translation of Journey to the West in Japanese ("Saiyuki") leaves Xuanzang's gender very ambiguous. Although recorded history has Xuanzang as a male, the translations of the story have muddled this.