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Ex-husband of RHONJ star, Dina Manzo, hired mobster to assault her boyfriend in 2015, feds say
Updated: Jun. 30, 2020, 4:29 p.m. | Published: Jun. 30, 2020, 11:39 a.m.
By Joe Atmonavage | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com
The ex-husband of a former star of the "Real Housewives of New Jersey" has been indicted for allegedly hiring a member of the Lucchese Crime Family to carry out an assault of the Bravo star's current husband in exchange for a lavish wedding reception, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office.
Thomas Manzo, 55, of Franklin Lakes, and the ex-husband of Dina Cantin (formerly Manzo), allegedly hired John Perna, 43, of Cedar Grove, in the spring of 2015 to assault his ex-wife's then-boyfriend in exchange for a deeply-discounted wedding reception at The Brownstone in Paterson, where Manzo is an owner, according to the indictment.
According to the indictment, Manzo allegedly provided Perna personal information about his ex-wife's boyfriend, including his residence, business addresses and vehicle, to help Perna locate the man in order to assault him, as Manzo allegedly requested.
In July 2015, Perna and another man allegedly involved in the Lucchese Crime Family, located the boyfriend and his vehicle and followed him to a strip mall in Passaic County, where they allegedly attacked the man, according to the indictment.
Perna allegedly used a slap jack with "the intent to inflict serious permanent injury" during the assault, according to the indictment. The alleged attack left the man with a permanent facial scar, authorities said.
In return, Perna held a "lavish wedding reception at Manzo's restaurant for a fraction of the price" in August 2015, which was allegedly paid for by another Lucchese associate and close friend of Manzo's, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office. There were more than 330 attendees at the wedding, including many members of the crime family, authorities said.
Manzo and Perna are each charged by indictment with committing a violent crime in aid of racketeering activity and conspiracy to commit a violent crime in aid of racketeering activity.
Federal investigators launched an investigation into the alleged assault shortly after it occurred in July 2015, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office.
Federal grand jury subpoenas were sent to The Brownstone restaurant seeking documents related to Perna's August 2015 wedding reception, but Manzo allegedly failed to provide the requested documents and "deliberately submitted a false document regarding the reception to the government, along with a false certification," authorities said.
The documents were later seized in November 2019 when the federal authorities executed a search warrant at The Brownstone and obtained the invoices and other documents related to the wedding reception that were not originally turned over, authorities said.
Manzo is also indicted for allegedly falsifying and concealing records related to the federal investigation of the violent crime.
Manzo's attorney, Michael Critchley, said his client is innocent of all the charges.
"The allegations more resemble a fictional plot of a reality TV show and will be proven to be absolutely and totally false as it relates to Thomas Manzo," Critchley said.
Manzo, known as Tommy Manzo on "The Real Housewives of New Jersey," married former cast member Dina Manzo in 2007 and appeared on the show in its first season. The two separated in 2012 and finalized their divorce in 2016.
He owns The Brownstone with his brother, Albert, who is married to Dina's sister, Caroline, another former "RHONJ" cast member.
Perna, who federal authorities describe in the indictment as a "made man" in the Lucchese Crime Family, which operates in the New Jersey region, faces additional charges unrelated to the alleged assault.
Shortly before he was set to serve a state prison sentence in 2016 for racketeering, Perna allegedly falsely reported his Mercedes Benz was stolen and destroyed and subsequently filed an insurance claim and recouped the money needed to pay off the loan for the car.
However, according to the indictment, Perna allegedly had an associate of the Lucchese Crime Family stage the theft of the vehicle and light it on fire in Newark.
He was indicted for conspiracy to commit wire and mail fraud related to the false car insurance claim.
Perna's attorney did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the indcitment.
Perna was released from state prison on parole in July 2019 on the racketeering charge related to running a multi-billion-dollar gambling enterprise with other members of the Lucchese Crime Family, including his father, Ralph, and his brother, Joseph.
Both men wee released on $100,000 unsecured appearance bonds during their first appearance in federal court Tuesday.
Joe Atmonavage may be reached at jatmonavage@njadvancemedia.com.


President Trump publicly says he has full confidence in John Kelly, but talk of who might oust the embattled joint chiefs of staff is starting to heat up. Kelly is in hot water, of course, over the White House's handling of former staffer Rob Porter, who's accused of abusing his two ex-wives. The White House claims it didn't know about the allegations until recently, but FBI Director Christopher Wray blew that narrative out of the irrigate when he witnessed the members of the bureau repeatedly briefed the White House last year on its investigation into the aide.


Friday Poll: How Many Hours In A Week Do You Play Games On Your Android Device?
We are definitely some gaming addicts over here. You can always find Kellex playing Fieldrunners HD, or myself playing some type of zombie kill 'em all type of game. We were curious if everyone else is constantly checking the Market for the next big thing. It's easy to watch time fly by when you have a great game in your hands. I have easily spent 6+ hours playing one game in a day, so I am sure there must be people just like us here.
How many hours in a week do you spend playing games on your Android device?
I game more than I work, shh, don't tell my boss!
Now that we have all your answers, tell us what your favorite games are. We would hate to be missing out on something great!


Montreal-born video artist Benny Nemerofsky Ramsay gets around. His work has screened at more than 200 film and video festivals worldwide, been exhibited in galleries and broadcast on television in Holland, France, Germany and Japan. He also recently launched a limited edition DVD at Art Metropole. All of this adds up to good reason to seek out his work.
In Patriotic both artists, dressed in Boy Scout-esque uniforms emblazoned with unexplained pink Ws, do their best to demonstrate their patriotic fervour. They are stiffly poised, self-aware and camp camp campy. What at first seems just plain funny or strange is really a look at how language shapes belief. Not recognized for its entertainment value, the Patriot Act document seems dull and dry. However, when set to a globally recognizable pop song, possibilities for interpreting the language open up.
Also among the ongoing Benny art-stravaganza is J'Adore, a program of videos and performance by Nemerofsky Ramsay and Lièvre. This PleasureDome evening is comprised of individual videos from both artists, as well as Patriotic, and live performance. The program, originally curated for a screening in Montreal, has also been screened in Paris and Germany; it also marks Lièvre's English Canada debut.
Lyric reveals how contrived popular culture can be. Throughout the exhausting piece Nemerofsky Ramsay somehow manages to hit the high notes that the original songs demand. Unlike his other music videos, the performances in Lyric are not polished, adding to their sincerity. As viewers, it feels like we are seeing something private and precious. But it also feels a bit like watching Internet karaoke videos, which the piece kind of is. Alone in his room, Nemerofsky Ramsay is enacting the performance of his lifetime. Hop over to J'Adore and see what it looks like live.


This blog post accompanies the quarterly "new password" email sent out to all of those who are on the stephenskoutas.com email list. It serves as a one-stop review of the latest content on stephenskoutas.com. It isn't all-inclusive. Feel free to wander around the site... there are always new images everywhere, particularly in the kid's galleries, the family album, and the friend's scrapbook.
If you didn't receive the new password, email me and I will get it to you. Happy 2011, and enjoy all of this snow if you can!
That's a lot of pictures, people, but there's a lot more to come. Watch the blog for updates. Thank you.
Having wonderful family so far away stinks... except when it is 7 degrees in New England and it's time to go visit them! Images can be found here. We were also lucky enough to spend a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday with a festive bunch of family members. Those images are here.


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https://www.austinchronicle.com/events/film/2008-09-26/676552/
Rated R, 89 min. Directed by Clark Gregg. Starring Sam Rockwell, Anjelica Huston, Kelly Macdonald, Brad William Henke, Clark Gregg, Paz de la Huerta.
REVIEWED By Kimberley Jones, Fri., Sept. 26, 2008
I see a lot of movies. Some of them stick in the brain; a lot of them don't. I mention this because I turned my house upside down trying to find the notes I scribbled a few weeks ago while watching Choke, a forgettable adaptation of Chuck Palahniuk's 2001 novel. I never found the notes, but I did find a paperback of the novel, a reissue with "Now a Major Motion Picture" stamped on the cover. It's not exactly false advertising: Veteran character actor and first-time writer/director Gregg (The New Adventures of Old Christine) did in fact make a motion picture out of the book, and I suppose the amount of manpower, money, and migraine attendant to any production amounts to something major. But Choke marks a very minor major. Rockwell plays Victor Mancini, a man of many hats, all of them off-putting. He's a sex addict who goes to a recovery group mostly to score fresh meat; a medical-school dropout who pays the bills as a Colonial America re-enactor, with a sideline scam as a choking victim in restaurants; and an unloved, oft-abandoned son who's trying to lay the cute doctor (Macdonald) attending his Alzheimer's-addled mother (Huston). Mancini's character boils down to a lot of self-loathing and unresolved mommy issues – which is as tedious as it sounds – and the film, shot by Tim Orr with the wanness of a porno flick, is only half as blackly comic as it should be (check out George Saunders' novella CivilWarLand in Bad Decline for a far funnier rendering of the re-enactor's plight). There are bright spots – the bearlike Henke as Victor's best friend, a chronic masturbator with a sunny disposition, and the terrific Macdonald (No Country for Old Men), a native Scot who rather adorably mouths an American dialect like a Midwestern honors kid with a speech impediment. And I didn't need my notes to remember that.
Copyright © 2023 Austin Chronicle Corporation. All rights reserved.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


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Tag: Yoda
Posted in Comic Books/Graphic Novels, Weekly Comic 100s
***"Weekly Comic 100s" keeps it nice and simple. Comic book reviews in 100 words or less. Straight, concise, and to the point.***
Dark Nights: Death Metal isn't my thing. Just not my flavor of ice cream. But apparently it just changed the DC Universe on a cosmic level. So I had to do a little research.
Apparently, coming out of Death Metal, the DC Multiverse is now a DC Omniverse. An omniverse is, of course…*looks it up*…"a universe that is spatiotemporally four-dimensional." What does that mean? Apparently it means there are, like, a lot of alternate universes out there, and everything is canon somewhere.
That should be DC's new tag line: "DC Comics: Where everything is canon somewhere!"
Out of Death Metal we go into Generations Shattered, and the two-month long Future State event, which shows us "glimpses into the possible unwritten worlds of tomorrow." These Future State stories are taking over virtually all the main DC books until March. So whether we like the future or not, it's here…
Oh, and Star Wars: The High Republic started this week too.
Oh, and there's other stuff too.
Everybody gettin' this, so far? Good. Now let's dive in.
TITLE: Generations Shattered #1
AUTHORS: Dan Jurgens, Robert Venditti, Andy Schmidt
ARTISTS: Various. Cover by Ivan Reis, Joe Prado, & Hi-Fi.
This one didn't do it for me. Which was a surprise, as DC usually does pretty well with these one-shot event kick-offs (think DC Universe: Rebirth). Plus, the idea of all these heroes from various decades ('40s Batman, '90s Steel, etc) coming together is pretty cool.
But while there's tons of great artistic talent on display here, there's a certain emptiness to Generations Shattered. I was left wanting more. And not in a good way.
Quite a shame. There was a lot of potential here.
TITLE: Star Wars: The High Republic #1
AUTHOR: Cavan Scott
ARTISTS: Ario Anindito, Mark Morales (Inker), Annalisa Leoni (Colorist), Ariana Maher (Letterer). Cover by Phil Noto.
This has more of a fantasy vibe than a traditional Star Wars book. Not the least of which because we've got a fairy-like alien on the opening pages.
This issue drew me in, but the hook wasn't that strong. I'm wondering whether Yoda, who is in this issue, should have played a larger role. As the only character we know who's alive during this time frame, he would have been the natural segue in, wouldn't he?
TITLE: Future State: The Next Batman #1
AUTHOR: John Ridley, Brandon Thomas
ARTISTS: Nick Derington, Tamra Bonvillain (Colorist), Clayton Cowles (Letterer). Cover by Jose O. Ladronn.
Right now, people should be reading anything that has John Ridley's name on it. This is good stuff. Very street-level in both writing and art. I also love that the Santa Prisca gang wears '90s style Bane masks.
The issue also does a lot of justice to the Outsiders, and oddly enough, the Peter Tomasi version of Arkham Knight from Detective Comics. That story didn't do much for me. But the character feels like she belongs in this world.
TITLE: Star Wars #10
AUTHOR: Charles Soule
ARTISTS: Jan Bazaldua, Rachelle Rosenberg (Colorist), Clayton Cowles (Letterer). Cover by Carlo Pagulayan, Jason Paz & Rain Beredo.
Spoiler alert: Luke Skywalker isn't in this issue. So that's a misleading cover, right there.
Put that aside, however, and this might be the best issue of the series thus far. We've got some good character stuff, including the exploration of the relationship between Lando and Lobot, the latter of whom doesn't get played with that often. Han Solo's absence leaves a big void in the Star Wars story that can be used for newer or lesser known characters. This issue is a textbook example of that.
TITLE: Future State: Wonder Woman #1
AUTHOR: Joelle Jones
ARTISTS: Jones, Jordie Bellaire (Colorist), Clayton Cowles (Letterer)
This issue is pretty. That's par for the course for a Jones & Bellaire book. Jones draws the underworld like a crowded city subway station, which is fun. Our new Wonder Woman, Yara Flor, also has a flying horse named Jerry. Because why not? There's also humor injected into things, which is nice.
The thing is, I'm not really sure what to think of all this. The issue is fun, but there's not much to get me invested in our new hero, or to make me want more. So I'm on the fence about coming back next time.
TITLE: Future State: Harley Quinn #1
AUTHOR: Stephanie Phillips
ARTISTS: Simone di Meo, Tamra Bonvillain (Colorist), Troy Peteri (Letters). Cover by Derrick Chew.
Simone di Meo and Tamra Bonvillain look good on Harley. They give this issue a feel akin to a much brighter Batman Beyond. They also give Professor Pyg a gas-mask-centered redesign that's pretty cool.
The art is inspired, but the plot isn't. An imprisoned Harley helping the police (who are aided by Scarecrow, oddly enough), track down Gotham City villains. It's essentially a twist on the Hannibal Lecter character. Harley devotees may come back next issue. But I'll pass, thanks.
Posted in Movies
George Lucas on Star Wars: The Cave Scene
***Think what you will about George Lucas, but in terms of Star Wars, it can all be traced back to him. That's why I always find it so interesting to listen to him talk about it. His creative process, the reason certain decisions were made, and how these movies became pop cultural staples. This space is dedicated to just that. This is "George Lucas on Star Wars."***
The Scene: At Yoda's behest, Luke walks into a cave. Inside, he's confronted by Darth Vader. A fight ensues in which Luke beheads his opponent, only to discover his own face under Vader's mask. It has all been an illusion.
George Lucas Says (via The Empire Strikes Back commentary track): "Part of the [cave scene] is learning about the Force, learning the fact that the Force is within you and at the same time you create your own bad vibes. So if you think badly about things, or you act badly, or you bring fear into a situation, you're going to have to defend yourself, or you're going to have to suffer the consequences of that. In this particular case, he takes his sword in with him, which means he's going to have combat. … He is creating this situation in his mind, because on a larger level, what caused Darth Vader to become Darth Vader is the same thing that makes Luke bring that sword in with him. … [Luke] has the capacity to become Darth Vader, simply by using the hate, and fear, and using weapons, as opposed to using compassion, caring, and kindness."
I Say: This is probably blasphemous to many, but those words from Lucas being to mind a line from The Phantom Menace: "Your focus determines your reality." Lucas may suck at writing dialogue, but at least he's consistent.
Something I've always been a little unsure of is Yoda's relationship to the cave. On this same commentary track, Empire director Irvin Keshner says that Yoda is "setting it all up, what's going to happen in the cave." That always seemed to be the indication based on the cinematic language of this sequence. But if you listen to Lucas tell it, the cave seems to have mystical elements on its own, and Luke taps into them via his connection to the Force.
That idea is supported by other Star Wars creators as well, including Timothy Zahn in his Thrawn trilogy of books, and a recent Supreme Leader Snoke comic written by Tom Taylor.
I'm inclined to think this is a situation where everybody is right, and we just don't know how all the dots are connected yet.
YouTube Spotlight: "I'll Make A Jedi Out of You" by the Clarkson Twins
This has been stuck in my head for about a week now. NOT the Mulan song, mind you. This Star Wars parody by the Clarkson twins, featuring Black Gryph0n. I've literally been walking around singing "Only theeeeeeeen, will you beeeeeee, a Jediiiiiiiiii!" in Yoda's voice.
So now you get to have it stuck in your head too. Congratulations!
I wish I could say something snappier or wittier than that. But it's really that simple.
George Lucas on Star Wars: Yoda and Qui-Gon Jinn
Wisconsin Raider
The Scene: As Anakin Skywalker slaughters Tusken Raiders over the death of his mother, a meditating Yoda feels his pain and suffering. He also briefly hears Qui-Gon Jinn calling to the young padawan.
George Lucas Says (Via the Attack of the Clones Commentary Track): "… we cut to Yoda, who is meditating, who hears this off-screen, and we do hear a voice in there. That voice is the voice of Qui-Gon Jinn. So we very subtly establish … Yoda is feeling the pain and suffering of Anakin and the Tusken Raiders, [and] he's also making a connection, unwittingly with Qui-Gon Jinn. Up to this point we haven't really established that you can make a connection with the departed in this world. That will become a factor in [Episode III]."
I Say: If by factor he means "afterthought," then yes, it became a factor in Episode III.
This has always been one of the more frustrating aspects of Revenge of the Sith for me, as it would have done so much to justify Qui-Gon's entire presence in The Phantom Menace. Plus, they just would have been cool scenes.
The novelizations of Episode II and III both touched on Yoda communicating with Qui-Gon. The latter even had a brief dialogue between the two. But somehow they didn't make it into the films. So the whole "training I have for you" thing at the end of Sith seemed comically tacked on.
Even The Rise of Skywalker got this one right, with Rey hearing the voices of all the Jedi at the end. It's not like it was an entirely separate plot thread or anything. It would have taken maybe five to 10 seconds in Clones, and maybe a minute in Sith. All you need is a few lines of audio from Liam Neeson.
All to establish that Yoda has not gone bonkers when he tells Obi-Wan to talk to his dead master.
Astonishing Art: Star Wars Trilogy by Florey
Going from Boy to Man…Very Slowly.
I'm a sucker for posters like these. Ones that maintain a consistent design and take you through multiple stories, often following the same character.
Yes, I'm a little late for Star Wars Day with this one. But let's be honest: This site has never been hurting for Star Wars content. Ergo, I present to you Florey's take on Luke Skywalker's journey in the original Star Wars Trilogy.
The posters are for sale now at Bottleneck Gallery. Florey can also be found on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker: 10 Lingering Questions
I might have been the last die-hard Star Wars geek to see The Rise of Skywalker. Such things are the case when you've got a six-month-old. You can't very well bring an infant with you to a movie with this many pew-pews and explosions. Although you just know that somebody, somewhere, totally did.
At this juncture, a traditional review is essentially pointless. So I thought I'd try something a little different, and just ask some questions. Some you've probably heard by now. But certain others, perhaps not…
In case it needs to be said at this point, ***SPOILERS AHEAD!!!!!***
1. Why so much?
The most common complaint I've heard about The Rise of Skywalker is how overstuffed it is. It seemed like J.J. Abrams and his co-writer Chris Terrio were trying to make up for lost time, i.e. The Last Jedi. They had to straighten everything out with Palpatine, Snoke, Kylo Ren, the Sith, etc. We had to send our heroes on a bunch of different quests, then deal with Rey's parentage, have Leia die, and then have the biggest space battle ever you guyz.
As such, the pacing is way too fast. We barely have time to digest anything. You can call that a non-stop, rip roarin' action adventure if you like. But those quieter character moments are every bit as important, if not more. Rey and Kylo had their share. C-3PO did too. But we didn't have time for anyone else.
My question is, why overstuff it so much? For instance, going to the planets Kijmi and Pasana. For me, the most interesting planet in this movie was Kijmi, where we met Kerri Russell's character. Why not just have Rey and the others take the Falcon straight there, find out where the Sith McGuffin thing is, and skip Pasana all together? Did we really need yet another desert planet in the Star Wars universe? They could have found Lando, done the TIE Fighter stunt, and faked Chewie's death just as easily on Kijmi, and it would have saved us some time.
2. Has Disney learned its lesson about planning this stuff out in advance?
It's amazing to me that the Marvel Cinematic Universe, with its dozens of movies featuring different characters and settings, exists under the same umbrella as this new Star Wars trilogy, which couldn't stay consistent through three consecutive films.
We learned from The Last Jedi writer/director Rian Johnson that by the time he signed on, the Disney/Lucasfilm brain trust hadn't figured anything out beyond The Force Awakens. To this day, that's staggering to me. They had access to Lawrence Kasdan, who co-wrote The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi. Not to mention George Lucas himself. And yet they couldn't be bothered to at least come up with some basic bullet points? If you need to change course at some point, then do so. But at least draw a friggin' map before you start the trip…
3. Was Chewie really that upset over the whole medal thing? Both The Last Jedi and The Rise of Skywalker go out of their way to "fix" something with Chewbacca.
In The Force Awakens, fans called foul when, upon their return from Starkiller Base, Rey got a hug from Leia, while Chewie seemingly walked by unnoticed. Remember, Han Solo, Leia's former husband and Chewie's BFF, had just been killed. By his own son no less. So in The Last Jedi, Rian Johnson had Leia exclaim, "Chewie!" and then give him a big hug. A cute little wink. Harmless.
Since the original film, it's been a running joke that while Luke and Han got medals for destroying the Death Star, Chewie was left empty-handed. Kind of funny, but again, harmless.
And yet in this movie, after the battle is won, Maz Kanata gives our fuzzy friend one of those Death Star medals. (Presumably Han's?) I get the gesture. But in a movie that's already so long…why? After more than three decades, was Chewie still sore that he didn't get a trinket? It's not like they made him sit in the audience. He was standing up there with them! He ain't easy to miss, either.
Also, where does Maz Kanata get her original trilogy collectibles? We never did find out how she got her hands on Luke's lightsaber…
4. Is there a "cutesy character quota" in every Star Wars project now?
Everybody seemed to like Babu Frik, the little puppet who worked on C-3PO. With a fanbase as divisive as this one can be, something universally praised is a pretty big deal.
Between Babu Frik and Baby Yoda in The Mandalorian, I'm starting to wonder if there's going to be a "cutesy character quota" every Star Wars project has to meet from here on out.
"Well Mr. Feige, I like what you've turned in here. But let me ask you this: How would you feel about adding a baby Ewok?"
5. What's the deal with Palpatine's body?
I don't have an issue with them bringing Palpatine back. They shouldn't have needed to, but that's another story. If the Jedi can come back as "Force Ghosts," then there's no reason Palpatine couldn't have used some kind of Sith alchemy to preserve himself after death. It fits with all that talk about cheating death in Revenge of the Sith.
And yes, there is a comic book that uses a similar concept with Palpatine transferring his consciousness into different bodies. Dark Empire, circa 1992. There's even a similar line that we hear in The Rise of Skywalker about how, "It was not the first time I died…Nor will it be the last." (Shown above.)
However, the movie doesn't get into specifics about what exactly is going on with Palpatine. Is it a cloning thing? Is that somehow his original body? I'm hoping the novelization clears up the specifics of what exactly it is.
6. Really? Palpatine's entire throne room survived the second Death Star explosion?
Because this movie, like the prequels, relies way too heavily on original trilogy nostalgia, Rey and Kylo Ren wind up fighting inside the remains of the second Death Star, which crashed on Endor. Including the Emperor's throne room.
Point blank: This was stupid. Not just that we had to go back to Endor, but that so much of the second Death Star survived at all, much less the Emperor's damn chair. We were going to see Palpatine later on anyway. There was no reason to have it in there other than a lazy play at nostalgia. Ditto for when Wicket made that cameo for no real reason.
To quote Luke, "That was a cheap move."
7. Couldn't R2-D2 have gotten in on the fun? Artoo has never been a main character. But he always had a prominent supporting role in both the original and prequel trilogies. George Lucas had a soft spot for him. He could be an unlikely hero, while also providing some comic relief.
But in this sequel trilogy, Artoo really only serves one purpose: Plot convenience. In The Force Awakens, he completes the map to Luke. In The Last Jedi, he convinces Luke to talk to Rey about the Jedi. In The Rise of Skywalker, he's there to restore Threepio's memories. Yes, he flies in Poe's X-Wing during the end battle. But that's supposed to be BB-8's job, isn't it? What's more, it really should have been Artoo at the Lars Homestead with Rey. Assuming she's setting up her own little Jedi Academy there, he'd be a great source of information, having spent all those years with Anakin and Luke. Instead, she brings BB-8.
It is indeed BB-8 we have to thank for Artoo sitting on the sidelines like this. I like the little guy and all, but he essentially took Artoo's job as the resident hero droid. With BB-8 around, Artoo had nothing to do. That's a damn shame. As one of the more iconic Star Wars characters, he deserved better.
8. What was with all the dead Jedi voices Rey heard?
Yes, the prequels turned out pretty rough. Even so, hearing the voices of Liam Neeson (Qui-Gon Jinn), Samuel L. Jackson (Mace Windu), and yes, even Hayden Christensen (Anakin Skywalker) during Rey's big crowning moment was awesome. Like much of the film, it was hard to digest it all. But apparently, in addition to Luke, Obi-Wan Kenobi and Yoda, we also heard TV characters like Ahsoka Tano and Kanan Jarrus.
But while I loved it, I have to ask…how?
In the prequels, the first one to learn how to retain your consciousness in the Force, i.e. become a Force Ghost, was Qui-Gon. In the years between Revenge of the Sith and A New Hope, a spectral Qui-Gon taught both Yoda and Obi-Wan how to do it. I think it's fair to assume Luke learned how to do it at some point after the fall of the Empire. But what's the story with everybody else? Presumably, none of those other characters had the chance to learn that ability.
And as long as we're on the subject, how did Anakin appear as a Force Ghost in Return of the Jedi? It was less than a day after he died!
The only explanation I can come up with is that Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan, and the others are somehow able to reach out to whatever spectral trace remains of their fallen comrades, and allow them to briefly speak. Or in certain special cases, even grant them the ability in the moments after their death, i.e. Anakin in Jedi. Given this is the Star Wars Universe we're talking about, it's about as plausible as anything else…
Would this whole trilogy have been better if Poe had died in the The Force Awakens?
According to a documentary among the special features on The Force Awakens Blu-ray, the Poe Dameron character was originally supposed to be killed off. I can only assume it would have been in the TIE Fighter crash on Jakku. But Oscar Isaac had been killed off early in some other movies, and didn't want to do that again. The filmmakers obliged.
So, if I'm understanding this correctly, the only reason Poe made it through the movie is because Oscar Isaac would have declined the role otherwise? Um…what? He's a great actor, but did Star Wars really need Oscar Issac that badly? If he wasn't up for the role, I've got a hunch there might have been other actors willing to step in. I mean, y'know, maybe a few?
It makes you wonder, doesn't it? What could The Last Jedi and The Rise of Skywalker have been like if they hadn't had to balance Poe's plotlines along with everyone else's? Imagine how much more time they could have devoted to Finn's development. We could have skipped all that Canto Bight stuff, and maybe had Finn be the one in conflict with Holdo. They might not have felt the need to cram so much stuff in. We could have gotten a little more breathing room…
10. What happens now?
The interesting thing about The Rise of Skywalker compared to both Return of the Jedi and Revenge of the Sith, is that despite being the final chapter of the trilogy, there's so much more meat on the bone from a storytelling perspective.
Just off the top of my head…
– Rey attempting to succeed where Luke failed, starting her own low key Jedi Academy based out of the Lars Homestead on Tatooine. She's now in a position to redefine what it means to be a Jedi. There's probably two or three movies worth of content there alone. Especially if Finn is Force sensitive, as the film seemed to suggest. Maybe weave in a potential romance between the two? That obviously contrasts with the old Jedi ways.
– Assuming the 82-year-old Billy Dee Williams is willing and able to do it, a follow-up on the question of Jannah's lineage, and whether Lando is her father. Bring Threepio and Artoo along. Why the hell not?
– What happens with the government now? Is the New Republic gone? Do they have to start from scratch? If so, how? Almost everybody died when Starkiller Base blew up the Hosnian system. Maybe look at it from Poe's perspective? As one of the de-facto leaders of the Resistance, he'd undoubtedly get looped into things. Finn too.
– After Order 66, Darth Vader, the Inquisitors, and the Empire at large hunted and killed the surviving Jedi. The Resistance can do the same thing here with surviving Palpatine loyalists and First Order figureheads. Is the First Order even completely gone?
Granted, much of this depends on whether they can get the actors back. Neither Daisy Ridley or John Boyega seem anxious to come back. I can't imagine Oscar Isaac is, either.
In the end, I think the reason there's so much uncharted territory here is because, sadly, there've been so many missed storytelling opportunities with these new movies. I didn't necessarily dislike The Rise of Skywalker. I didn't totally hate The Last Jedi either.
But by the Force, imagine what those movies could have been…
Follow Primary Ignition on Twitter, or email Rob at primaryignition@yahoo.com.
A Star Wars: The Last Jedi Review – The Burden of Expectations
TITLE: Star Wars: The Last Jedi
STARRING: Daisy Ridley, Mark Hamill, Adam Driver, Carrie Fisher, John Boyega
DIRECTOR: Rian Johnson
STUDIOS: Walt Disney Pictures, Lucasfilm Ltd
RUN-TIME: 152 min
***WARNING: Spoilers lay ahead.***
I had to sleep on this one. That's partially why I waited a week before releasing my review. When I came out of The Last Jedi, I wasn't sure what to think. That wasn't the reaction I expected. When I walked out of The Force Awakens, I knew I loved it. When I left Rogue One, I knew I hated it. This one was in a weird "What did I just see?" zone.
In hindsight, the mountains of advance praise heaped on The Last Jedi harmed it in a way few seemed to anticipate. Not just praise from critics mind you, but from Disney themselves when they put director Rian Johnson in charge of the next Star Wars trilogy. That's a hell of an endorsement. The biggest entertainment company in the world put this guy in the driver's seat for the biggest movie franchise in the world. All signs pointed to: "Rian Johnson is great! The Last Jedi is going to be amazing and perfect in every way!" What else were we supposed to think?
Sometimes hype hinders. Just ask George Lucas. He learned that the hard way with a little movie called The Phantom Menace.
That's actually an apt comparison, as The Last Jedi could be the most divisive Star Wars story since The Phantom Menace. Obviously, a portion of the adult Star Wars fanbase has been perpetually butthurt since before butthurt was even a thing. But even the even-tempered and reasonable among us have taken issue with the film.
So allow me to serve as a voice of the middle-ground. A life-long Star Wars buff who isn't among those that creates petitions to make certain movies non-canon. For the sake of organization and simplicity, let's make this a simple pro/con list…
Pro: Rey's parentage
The Force Awakens left us with a lot of questions about Rey's parents. There were plenty of candidates. Was she Han and Leia's daughter? Was she Luke's daughter? Was she somehow Ob-Wan's daughter? Could she be Snoke's daughter?
As it turns out, she's nobody's daughter. Nobody we know, anyway. In The Last Jedi, Kylo Ren (Or are we officially calling him Ben Solo now?) reveals that Rey is the child of junkers from Jakku who sold her off for "drinking money." They're almost trolling us with that one. The franchise with the most famous family revelation in cinematic history sets up another one, then gives us an anti-reveal.
But here's the thing: It's the right call. Not making Rey a descendent of Luke, Leia, or someone from the original trilogy gives her a refreshing independance. It makes her a self-made hero. I can also appreciate them not repeating the "I am your father" beat again.
Con: Snoke's identity
Snoke was every bit the subject of speculation that Rey was, if not more. Who was this mysterious Force-wielder that taught Ben Solo the ways of the Dark Side? Why was his face so messed up? Was he even human? Was he the infamous Darth Plagueis?
The truth of Rey's parentage may not have satisfied everybody, but at least we got an answer. With Snoke we got nothing. Nothing. Ben turns on him halfway through the movie, ultimately taking his spot at the top of the First Order food chain. While killing him off isn't necessarily an issue, not addressing who he is, even if it's just another non-reveal, is the movie's biggest letdown.
You can make the argument we knew next to nothing about Palpatine in Empire and Jedi. Hell, they never even said his name. He was just the Emperor. But they then proceeded to make three movies chronicling his rise to power. Snoke's identity is also wrapped up in the backstory of the First Order, of which we know so little.
I suppose there's a chance we'll learn a little more about who this guy was in Episode IX. But this was their big opportunity to explore him, and they missed it. That's astounding. It's not as if they didn't know we were curious…
Pro: Mark Hamill as grumpy Luke.
There's naturally a warm and fuzzy nostalgic quality to seeing Mark Hamill come back to Luke Skywalker. But he's also perennially underrated as an actor. So to see him in a major motion picture again is very satisfying. He more than holds up his end of the bargain.
People have had mixed emotions about what they've done with Luke in these new movies. The execution hasn't been perfect. But the idea itself isn't bad. The events of Return of the Jedi happened more than 30 years ago. A hell of a lot can happen in three decades. People change. Luke has changed. I like that none of us were expecting grumpy old Luke Skywalker. It opened some interesting doors, and allowed Mark Hamill to turn in a different, more nuanced performance than he otherwise might have.
Con: Overstuffing the plot
The Last Jedi is so bloated that it may be the first Star Wars movie that overstays its welcome. It struggles to give both Finn and Poe Dameron something to do. As Rey, Finn, and Poe are supposed to have essentially the same level of importance, they all have their own plot threads. This leaves the story overinflated and less focused. As much as I like Oscar Isaac as Poe, he's the one who needed to be scaled back.
While Finn and his new ally Rose are off on their big mission to a space casino, Leia is incapacitated. So Vice Admiral Holdo (Laura Dern) is put in charge of the Resistance. When Poe doesn't like her more reserved and passive strategy, he stages a mutiny. We later learn Holdo is trying to be discreet while moving the Resistance to an old Rebel base on the planet Crait. She ends up sacrificing herself to buy them time.
While I enjoyed Laura Dern's presence in the film, this whole subplot was unnecessary. I understand the lesson Poe is supposed to learn about seeing the bigger picture. But the movie already has so much going on, and they could have saved time by simply having Poe and Holdo work together in Leia's absence. Then, inspired by her sacrifice, he can take charge and lead the Resistance forward into a new era.
Pro: New Planets
The planets in both The Force Awakens and Rogue One left something to be desired. None were particularly memorable other than Jakku, which is essentially the same world as Tatooine.
Crait isn't a particularly interesting setting, at least not that we know of. But it does make for a unique visual during our climactic battle. You've got a thick layer of salt on the surface, with the red mineral content underneath. It's a new kind of environment. That's not an easy thing to give us after eight Star Wars movies.
The casino city of Canto Bight, which Finn and Rose travel to, is memorable as well. It doesn't blow you away in terms of creatures or visual spectacle. But the novelty of basically seeing Star Wars characters go to Vegas is amusing.
Con: The Era
Here's a little something Disney doesn't want you to realize: We're never going to get another universally beloved Star Wars movie ever again. Hell, we haven't had once since The Empire Strikes Back, and even that's debatable in some circles. The phrase "everyone's a critic" has never been more true than it is in 2017. The advent of the internet, blogs, YouTube shows and the like have allowed for pop culture to be analyzed and re-analyzed to the point of absurdity. (And yes, I am indeed saying that on my own blog.) You can't find something more heavily ingrained in our pop culture than Star Wars.
You also can't find a more opinionated fandom. These movies and this universe connect with people on such a personal level. So something that's perceived as wrong or harmful can spark a tidal wave of emotion. The prequels taught a generation of geeks (myself included) how to pick a movie apart and spit it back at its creators. We love Star Wars, but we are forever on guard from being burned again. As such, any and all future Star Wars films will be under a microscope as long as fans can access the internet.
The Last Jedi does not live up to its hype. But that hype was so ridiculous that you almost can't fault it for that.
Almost.
There's a lot to like in this movie, and I appreciate that they surprised us, and are trying to avoid doing the original trilogy over again. But the plain and simple truth is that they tried to do too much with too many characters. As such, the movie's focus is spread too thin. It almost feels like they shot their wad, and won't have anything left for Episode IX. We'll find out in two years, when thankfully JJ Abrams will be back in the director's chair.
Help us, JJ. You're are only hope… (No pressure.)
Follow Primary Ignition on Twitter, or at Facebook.com/PrimaryIgnition.
A Star Wars: Yoda's Secret War Review – Size Still Matters Not
TITLE: Star Wars, Vol. 5: Yoda's Secret War
AUTHOR: Jason Aaron, Kelly Thompson
PENCILLER: Salvador Larroca, Emilio Laiso. Cover by Stuart Immonen.
COLLECTS: Star Wars #26–30, Star Wars Annual #2
I've referred to the "Journal of Old Ben Kenobi" issues of Star Wars the highlight of the series thus far. I stand by that statement in terms of the one-off tales we got in issues #7, #15, and #20. But they went a little too far here. A five-issue story from the journal? Which features Yoda instead of Obi-Wan? I can understand the temptation to try it. But no. This falls in the "too much of a good thing" category.
As Luke Skywalker ponders a current predicament involving C-3PO being captured by the Empire, he opens Ben Kenobi's journal and begins reading. Ben weaves a tale of a Jedi being called to a remote planet not on any star maps. A world inhabited only by children, who speak of a mysterious "stonepower." Little does Luke know that the Jedi unraveling the mystery of this planet is Yoda, the former Grand Master of the Jedi Order who will soon continue his training in the ways of the Force.
Our artist for the main story is Salvador Larroca, whose work I've talked about in great detail previously. Long story short: His art is largely based on stills from the Star Wars movies, and it's incredibly distracting. You want to be into the story, but the art keeps reminding you of scenes from Attack of the Clones, Revenge of the Sith, etc. It works for characters like Darth Vader or C-3PO, whose faces never change. But for just about everyone else it's a problem. It's a shame, because otherwise this is pretty good stuff. Edgar Delgado's colors really capture the magic and wonder of the Star Wars Universe, especially once Yoda is sent on a question inside a mountain. And we get a big monster toward the end that's are a lot of fun.
To his credit, Jason Aaron gets Yoda right. He's not afraid to play with Yoda's ironic size/power ratio. In issue #26, we see him walk into the lair of a bunch of space pirates to save a Force-sensitive child. As one might expect, they initially laugh him off. But he dispatches them, and gets a pretty good line in: "Something more precious than wealth have I brought you. … Wisdom."
During our story, Yoda becomes the student of a boy named Garro, who teaches him about the stonepower. Seeing our little green friend as an apprentice instead of a master is always a fun role reversal. Star Wars fans obviously know that he instructs very young Jedi at the temple on Coruscant. So the fact that he's on a planet full of child warriors is a great little twist. We get some cool visuals of Yoda and Garro with the glowing stones, and the blue light reflecting across the Jedi Master's alien skin.
But despite what Yoda's Secret War has going for it, it's simply too long. They could have trimmed at least one issue off of this and been absolutely fine. In issue #29, we see Yoda face a rock monster that's as tall as a building. That's a great match-up, and a perfect illustration of the grand yet unassuming power this little guy possesses. In terms of a grand finale for a Yoda story, it's tough to ask for more than that. But as we move through issue #29 and into #30, we jump back to present day and see Luke mix it up with an adult Garro. Thus, a story that was already starting to feel it's length officially overstays its welcome. I understand the impulse to connect the story to Luke. But the reader already knows Yoda eventually trains him. It's needless filler.
We also have to endure the narrative convenience that, in telling this story, Ben Kenobi never identifies Yoda by name. This is a continuity hoop Aaron has to jump through so Luke doesn't recognize Yoda's name in The Empire Strikes Back. While I appreciate the attention to continuity, it's just a little too convenient for my taste. Logically, why wouldn't Obi-Wan use Yoda's name?
We also get the obligatory scene at the end with Yoda on Dagobah, talking about how Luke will be ready soon. Again, needless filler.
Also contained in this book is Star Wars Annual #2, in which our creative team shifts to Kelly Thompson and Emilio Laiso. We meet a character named Pash Lavane on the planet of Skorii-Lei, which has been devastated by the war between the Empire and the Rebellion. While she's an immensely talented former engineer, with the physique of an Amazon to boot, Pash opts to stay out of the conflict. But when she rescues Princess Leia from a stormtrooper attack, she's irrevocably drawn in. She may have no choice but to pick a side.
I appreciate the story Thompson tells about how one can't always stay neutral when it comes to what's happening in their world at large. But what I came away thinking about was the Pash character herself. The juxtaposition of a big, muscled up character who's also technically savvy is intriguing. Pash is almost the She-Hulk of the Star Wars universe. Laiso strikes a lovely balance, as he makes her both facially expressive and imposing in stature. Between Doctor Aphra and Sana Solo, Marvel hasn't been shy about creating new strong female characters. Pash makes that list as well, and it's a shame we haven't seen her since this issue.
I've drifted in and out of Marvel's main Star Wars series since its debut. As big a Star Wars geek as I've always been, this title has had trouble holding my attention. Sadly, Yoda's Secret War is my latest exit cue. Hopefully I get a reason to return sooner rather than later.
A Star Wars #27 Review – This Looks Familiar…
AUTHOR: Jason Aaron
PENCILLER: Salvador Larroca. Cover by Stuart Immonen.
We haven't seen much of Yoda since Star Wars returned to Marvel. He's been around, of course. But to my knowledge this is the first story we've seen that's actually focused on him.
Framed, oddly enough, as an entry in the diary of Ob-Wan Kenobi, part two of "Yoda's Secret War" sees Yoda travel to a planet of primitive warriors. Warriors that also happen to be children. The planet's society revolves around it's strange blue mountains. The ore from these mountains is somehow strong in the Force. The Jedi Master is quickly caught up in the feud between the tribe that controls the ore, and the young outsiders. As a Jedi, Yoda's mission is to bring peace. But as he'll soon find out, peace is not on the table.
The artist here is our old Darth Vader buddy Salvador Larroca, who I've criticized for making it blatantly obvious that he's duplicating movie stills. I'll repeat that critique here, as you can tell exactly where he hit the pause button during Attack of the Clones. You're into what's happening in the book, and then these familiar images of Yoda pluck you out. Larroca is a very talented artist. It's such a shame he waters down his own work like this.
Putting Yoda in a story with kids is obviously fitting. Star Wars lore tells us he teaches a lot of the "younglings" (a la that scene in Clones) before they're assigned to a master. There's an opportunity here for insight into how Yoda relates to children, and what makes him an effective mentor for students that age. It doesn't have to be anything big or monumental. A small moment would do. Maybe even something as short as a sentence. We don't get anything like that in this issue. But the door is wide open for it next issue.
Jason Aaron's handle on Yoda has impressed me. In neither this nor last issue did we see a lightsaber, or any sort of flippy moves from him. What we have here is wise Empire Strikes Back Yoda, as opposed to CGI dancing Yoda. For that, I'm thankful. What we're getting here seems that much more authentic as a result.
Jason Aaron came across something really cool with these "Journal" stories, as it allows him to take a break for a month and tell some cool stories with Obi-Wan. This is the first time he's gone a little more long form with it, while also journeying away from Obi-Wan's life on Tatooine. I much prefer the single issue stories (see issues #7, #15, and #20), but what we're getting here with Yoda is still pretty good. But with at least two more issues, most likely three, left in "Yoda's Secret War," I'm just hoping our little green friend doesn't overstay his welcome.
Posted in Books
A Review of The Making of The Empire Strikes Back – The Incredible Journey
TITLE: The Making of The Empire Strikes Back
AUTHOR: J.W. Rinzler
PUBLISHER: Lucas Books
Though he has his critics, me being one at times, I could listen to George Lucas talk Star Wars for hours, specifically the in terms of plot evolution. So that was probably the aspect of The Making of The Empire Strikes Back I found most appealing.
Released for the 30th anniversary of the film, this coffee table book chronicles the movie's creation and release, starting in May 1977 (when the first film was released) and ending in December 1980. It features old and rare interview content from the film's cast and crew, a variety of photographs, unseen concept art by Ralph McQuarrie, and more.
The really cool thing about this book is that Rinzler more or less presents the content in chronological order. It almost feels like you're reading a production journal that includes interviews with the cast and crew. That's likely in part because the book borrows a great deal from Once Upon A Galaxy: A Journal of the Making of The Empire Strikes Back by Alan Arnold, which was published in 1980.
The book will likely tell you more than you ever wanted to know about the making of Empire, mostly looking at it from a director's perspective, an actor's perspective, and a special effects perspective. This is a bit of a double-edged sword, because if you're reading this book from cover to cover, chances are you're going to get bored at times. As I said, I love hearing George Lucas, and in this case Irvin Kershner, talk Star Wars. But as amazing as the special effects in the film are, their formative process doesn't interest me as much.
But you can certainly argue that this book doesn't need to be read to be enjoyed. For Star Wars buffs, the photos alone might just be worthy the hefty $85 price. We see some fantastic candid behind-the-scenes shots. For instance: Kersnher showing Peter Mayhew (Chewbacca) how he might hold C-3PO's severed head, Carrie Fisher sitting in the carbon freezing chamber alongside numerous stormtroopers and Ugnaughts (pig men) during a break, Mark Hamill in the swamps of Dagobah with Yoda…along with Kermit and Miss Piggy. Plus, there are lots of shots from the set that just show the actors being themselves. Those are fun to look at.
The detail on some of these photos is amazing. There's a tight black and white shot of Yoda on Mark Hamill's shoulder, and you can see not only the sweat on Hamill's face, but a lot of the little details on the puppet. The creases in its face, the detail in its hands, how life-like the eyes look. It's almost breath-taking.
The book provides some insight into the behind-the-scenes tension that went on during the film. Apparently, Hamill was worried that Luke Skywalker was bring written out when he read Yoda's "There is another" line. Also, Empire was way over budget, and we read about Lucas' fear of having to turn the film over to 20th Century Fox in order to finish it, as opposed to owning it himself.
The only real drawback to the book is its price. For casual fans, $85 is a lot to ask for a book, and I consider myself more than just a casual fan. You get your money's worth, but you might have to save up for it. Or you could always try the library.
Though the book in its entirety didn't interest me, I can't deny The Making of The Empire Strikes Back is a gem for both die-hard collectors and casual fans of the movie, by virtue of the sheer volume of content it contains. It's a fitting tribute to one of the greatest films ever made. In a recent interview with StarWars.com, Rinzler said he'd do a book like this for Return of the Jedi if sales justified it, which I'm sure they will. Star Wars is recession-proof that way.
Image 1 from grantgould7.tripod.com. Image 2 from curiousintentions.com.


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Stimulating Innovation in the Agri-food Sector (SIAFS) - Science City York
Make It York along with Science City York were contracted to providing a website to support the Stimulation of Innovation In the Agri-food Sector.
Make It York along with Science City York were contracted to providing a website that Stimulated Innovation In the Agri-food Sector. The project in partnership with FERA and the European regional development fund (ERDF) was designed to identify and support Yorkshire based businesses that could benefit from guidance and financial support to improve their processes and therefore support the Agri-food industry in our area. The group wanted an intuitive and user friendly website that allowed visitors to find out about the project, the support available and the amounts available as grants. Interested companies would then be able to register as members and book to attend workshops and events and complete an online 'diagnostic'.
The site needed to be fully compliant with disability and accessibility legislation, work on multiple platforms including mobile and have a clean and easy look and feel. The organisations were already using Microsoft Dynamics CRM to collaborate and any solution needed to seamlessly integrate with this.
Our tried and tested approach to projects of this type was undertaken.
Initially we collated all the necessary information from each of the relevant parties through a number of workshops. From these workshops a full functional specification was created and refined detailing the necessary processes and the required results.
Alongside the workshops a graphical design phase was undertaken where both wireframes and design concepts were produced and reviewed to ensure that standards were met and all parties would be happy with what they would receive as a deliverable. A detailed statement of the interactions between Microsoft Dynamics CRM and the system was produced and the two way communication links created. The client and their testers were given early access to the developed system and feedback was incorporated to refine the final deliverable.
A custom design and a responsive HTML build
Umbraco CMS front-end
Custom functionality for the company 'diagnostic'
Microsoft Dynamics CRM API integration
MIY were delivered a fully functional, clean and fit for purpose system that was easy to use.
Tightly integrated with Microsoft Dynamics CRM the system allows for cross-organisational collaborative follow up.
The system is intended to have a 3 year lifespan and has been live for over 2 years now.
The information collected is centrally managed and end-users have access to access tools to check their eligibility for funding as well as giving valuable information and suggestions on how to get the most from the partnership.
ap16 took real responsibility in ensuring that our site was right for us and all the other parties involved. Nothing was too much trouble and they've supported us excellently over the past 2 years
Heather Niven – Head of Science City York
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Home Advertisements Fashion & Entertainment SULCATA LAUNCHES ARTISTE MANAGEMENT ARM #SulcataMusic AND SIGNS HIP-HOP ARTISTE "BRAINEE"
SULCATA LAUNCHES ARTISTE MANAGEMENT ARM #SulcataMusic AND SIGNS HIP-HOP ARTISTE "BRAINEE"
As the saying goes "it can only get better", this is what Sulcata Entertainment has justified as she extends her arms officially into artiste management by launching #SulcataMusic and signing her first official artiste "BRAINEE".
Ifeanyichukwu David Onoka (born 28 May 1996), better known by his stage name BRAINEE, is a Nigerian hip hop recording and performing artist and a student of the department of philosophy, University of Lagos.
He became a force to reckon with after emerging the winner of the Pepsi Top Ten Chart Show (Music Contest) in 2014, going home with a whooping amount of 1million naira, after battling several rappers in different stages.
He also won the Mtn Yello Invasion Rap contest 2014 held at Yaba College of Technology. In 2015 he also battled the best Rappers from several tertiary institutions in Nigeria at the Tecno Boom J7 Launch and emerged winner.
Miss Unilag 2014 and 2015 Bunmi Davies "Edutainment Alumni Fiesta" Version 1.0 (2015) and Version 2.0 (2016) Something We Akokites Got (S.W.A.G) Concert 2015 Lagos Fashion Show 2015 amongst others.
Brainee has proven to be very versatile with his covers to two major hits, Vector's KingKong and Ycee's Jagaban and a couple others like Rest In Piss which he creatively used to turn a supposed Negative PR to a Positive one.
Brainee is about to drop his mixtape project titled the "OneTime Mixtape" under management Sulcata Entertainment.
The OneTime Mixtape will feature over 15 tracks, all mixed and mastered by SPYRITMIX.
The album features YungAce, Banxx, Laycon, Tinuke, Godwyn Guitar, Jemimah Ugiagbe (2nd Runner Up, Miss Unilag), Mafion and others.
Brainee's true fans are called BRAINIACS, so we hope to convert you to a Brainiac soon *winks*. Brainee's signature is the #OneTimePose as his favourite catch phrase is "One Time", so anytime you see Brainee, do the #OneTimePose.
Sulcata Entertainment is a Nigerian based firm targeted at empowering the youths, it is well known for its involvement in campus events and mostly for organizing beauty pageants, thus making the #WhoIsShe tagline a brand/trademark.
Sulcata has been credited with the production of "A-List" events and activations on Nigerian campuses with its out-of-the-box excellent approach to project management, thus gaining the trust and patronage of the Nigerian youth and students, and the corporate world at large.
The marriage between Sulcata and Brainee is going to be a very fruitful one, as a mixtape album is already in works and would be released anytime soon.


Especially for people in insurance sales and management roles, there is no doubt that playing golf offers many networking opportunities, especially with existing and potential clients. In fact, that is why some people play golf – It is their sole reason. However, I have always viewed golf as another form of problem-solving and many business people I know enjoy it for that reason in addition to the networking and friendship that inevitably results.
With regard to problem solving, many of those described are used to overcoming obstacles to make the best day-to-day business decisions. Golf is just an extension of their work in a more open environment.
How am I going to hit the ball over that tree? What club do i need? Should I try to go over the lake or avoid it by going around it or playing short of it? To make sure I don't hit my ball into that huge bunker, should I play to the opposite side of the green even it will put me very far from the hole?
These are examples of questions that golfers ask themselves throughout a round of golf. The golf shots they propose and attempt are aimed at solving the problems at-hand.
It is the same type of decision-making environment that business managers face everyday. However, the consequences of making a wrong decision in business is hardly ever more serious that a bad business decision on a golf course…unless, of course, you bet too much with your friends and lost!


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The Donkey Show was a ska band based in San Diego that played  Ska during the eighties. The band was formed in 1985. They introduced many people to ska music and were in the unique position of being one of the founding bands of the "California Ska Sound", a precursor to what some would call the third wave of ska. At one point they even received radio play on major radio stations such as KROQ-FM.

Notability

The Donkey Show were known for their male and female lead vocalists. The group's horn section included saxophonist Dave Hillyard who went on to play with Hepcat, the Slackers and more.  The Donkey Show helped bring the 1960s ska traditional sound to the U.S. and influenced other bands such as the Toasters (Thrill me up), Let's Go Bowling (Rude 69) and Hepcat (then known as Sharpsville Step) to do the same.
The Donkey Show appeared in a Ska Parade video, part of a documentary series that focused on ska bands between 1988 and 1993. The documentary includes five-to-10 minute concert clips as well as Q & A sessions with the musicians.
They performed concerts in various cities in California, and toured the US twice to sold-out crowds. They were the touring support for the Fishbone's 1989 Truth and Soul Tour.  Some members of the band backed Buster Bloodvessel of Bad Manners on a California tour as Buster's All-Stars. The group's relationship with Boston-based ska band Bim Skala Bim, along with Gerald Lokstadt of Spot Productions arranged for the Skatalites saxman, Jamaica's Chief musician Roland Alphonso to make his first solo trip to California in 1989 to record and perform with the Donkey Show. They played their last show at Berkeley International Ska Festival in 1990, in front of nearly 15,000 people in support of Dave Wakeling's group from Birmingham England, the English Beat.
Many former members of the band have gone on to play for some of the most successful modern ska bands. Dave Hillyard was also in the band Hepcat, and is now in the Slackers. Kent and Creedy went on to play in Unsteady. Matt Parker played with the Adjusters, a political soul and ska band in Chicago, as well as the Phoenecians and the Aggrolites in LA, and Thomas Zambrano has gone on to lead and produce Angeles–based ska and reggae pop group Hoodlum Pharaohs.

In an interview from 2001 vocalist Kym Clift spoke of the breakup. "The band retired for many reasons; one being the fact that we were all branching out in different ways creatively as musicians. I know that sounds like such a stereotypical answer, but it's the truth. Oftentimes this leads to successful bands, you know, creating a unique sound from a variety of influences, but unfortunately for the Donkey Show, I feel it was partly responsible for the demise of the band. we were all pretty young, stubborn, and eager to explore new opportunities. Although I was very disappointed, I knew it was for the best. We quit while we were ahead and I would much rather do that then sell out, perform halfheartedly, or play shitty music." Michael.        Brown took part in rehearsals , replacing Ray.    Campbell for about three months. This was.      About a year after 'Bali Island ' came out.

Studio Sessions
Kym Clift: Vocals
Ray Campbell: Vocals
Dave Hillyard: Saxophone
Stanley "Bronco" Farwell: Trombone
Garry Gorrell (early band): Trumpet
Rob Dominguez: Percussion
Matt Parker: Farfisa organ
Kent Graves: Drums
Thomas Zambrano: Bass
Eric Bird (early band) - Bass
Chris "Creedy" Bates: Guitar

Discography
1988 - Mr. Brown 7"
1989 Bali Island E.P.
1998 Just Can't Get Enough of...

References

American ska musical groups
Third-wave ska groups

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You may have a great idea with clear market potential, but that does not necessarily mean you should invest time or money in developing it.
Typically, ideas arise spontaneously within organisations. Although such ideas may be valuable, their indiscriminate nature and timing often means they are misaligned to the organisation's broader goals and strategy.
'Ideation' is the strategic generation of new ideas, business models, technologies and product applications. The following EverEdge tools are for generating, rationalizing and developing new ideas, business models, technologies and product applications that align with — and add value to — your organisation's goals and strategies.
This robust process allows many people to collaboratively and transparently share knowledge and create and assess opportunities while remaining focused on broader organisational goals. Furthermore, by clarifying all the parties' contributions and documenting the commercial arrangements, EverEdge minimizes the potential for future misunderstandings and disputes.


text:
Buffy Season 10: Issue #2 Review
Buffy the Vampire Slayer Season 10 #2
New Rules, Part 2
The Scoobies are back—including li'l Giles! Revelations about a new kind of vampire menace and the blank Vampyr book have only just begun. Everyone has a job to do, and for Buffy, it's treading the road of past relationships! Lucky girl . . .
Writer: Christos Gage
Artist: Rebekah Isaacs
Colorist: Dan Jackson
Cover Artist: Steve Morris, Variants by Rebekah Isaacs with Dan Jackson
The new breed of vampire is tough, but not too tough for Buffy and their crew, and they quickly have the vamps from the end of issue #1 on the run. But they swear that they will learn how to use all of their new powers, and the Scoobies will soon be history.
Everyone turns to li'l Giles to figure out what to do about these new rules, and he pitches a fit. Yes he is the same Giles, but he isn't. He's still a teenager filled with teenage angst and a tendency to meltdown under pressure. So Buffy decides what to do without his help, and you can tell that Giles doesn't really like that option either.
The Book of Vampyr book is rewriting itself, with the new rules, but how is it happening? Who is deciding what the new rules for magic are? Who is making sure that the vampires have a lot more power than they had before?
Zander and Dawn are sent off to talk to Dracula to see if he has any insights, will hilarity ensue? Buffy goes off to check in on an old friend with Spike.
This issue is really filled with a lot of interpersonal relationship issues more than action. Giles is having problems coping, no one knows what is going on with Buffy and Spike. Faith runs off to be a high paid mercenary, and Zander and Dawn may have reached the end of their relationship.
It's a well written issue with Whedonesque dialog. Not a lot of action, but plenty of personal issues to be dealt with, and Dracula is back!
Buffy Returns! Season 10: Issue #1 Review
Buffy the Vampire Slayer Season 10 Comes to a Close
Elsewhere in the Buffyverse…Angel & Faith Season 10 #1 Review
Buffy The Vampire Slayer and Angel & Faith Return in 2014!
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About Elliott Miller 2600 Articles
The Voice of E is me! E for Elliott that is. I'm a Geek Journalist featuring Board Games, Video Games, RPG's, Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Comics, and Movie News and Reviews.
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Bedtime Stories: The Water of Life
Bedtime Stories: The Bird "Grip"
Bedtime Stories: Uraschimataro and the Turtle
Bedtime Stories: King Lindorm
Detective Stories: The Poisoned Pen Ch 2 – The Yeggman


text:
What to Look for When Considering Mexico
You will never be able to cover all of your bases prior to setting up in Mexico for the first time, and you're certain to make missteps along the way. But choosing a service provider with deep knowledge of the country will help you on your way.
Apr 21st, 2014
This article originally appeared in the April 2014 print edition of IMPO. The full article including a sidebar on the differences between contracting manufacturing, standalone, and shelter models can be found there.
Recently one of our long-term clients finalized with us a contract extension to expand the footprint of their manufacturing operation in central Mexico. It was their third such expansion, tripling their initial space since they started with us six years ago.
The company, a midsized U.S.-based auto supplier, now occupies more than 70,000 sq ft in Zacatecas, Mexico with my firm, Entrada Group, a U.S.-based company that helps manufacturers set up operations swiftly and cost-effectively in Mexico.
Typically, when a client extends their contract, we send a press release and help them spread the good news. But this client keeps a very low profile. Any publicity would be a non-starter. To paraphrase his message to us: We trust you because you are honest and good partners. At the same time, we are not necessarily eager to tell everybody about how great things are going for us in central Mexico. We prefer to keep that to ourselves.
Such sentiment is shared by many foreign manufacturers already operating in central Mexico – they don't want to let the cat out of the bag about the benefits found in the region, known as the Bajio. For companies whose processes are labor-intensive, cost reduction is often paramount, and the Bajio delivers. In central states like Zacatecas, Guanajuato, or San Luis Potosi, total operating costs (direct labor, benefits, utilities, HVAC, etc.) for well-managed operations can be as low as $4.50 to $7.00 per hour.
Opportunity Abounds
At the same time, other companies value location over low operating costs. Some manufacturers must be close to the customers they are supplying. For example, U.S.-based Johnson Controls recently went online with their new plant in Querétaro, where they will produce molded polyurethane foam for automotive seats. The facility is strategically located less than two hours by truck from plants of three OEMs: GM, Mazda, and Honda. To be in position to serve those key customers, however, Johnson Controls is willing to pay a big premium in Querétaro, where real estate is pricier and labor is more expensive and competitive.
Approaches and locations for companies in Mexico differ, but a common theme unites them: Growth prospects. Mexico's status as arguably the most open trading partner in the world – 44 free trade pacts globally – means that companies with a physical presence in the country can take advantage of low- or zero-tariff export to markets in not just North America and South America, but even Europe and Asia. That's a key reason Mexico is the best hub for manufacturing in the entire Western hemisphere.
The challenge is that most small and midsize foreign manufacturers lack the know-how and connections, not to mention the resources, to set up and operate in Mexico and fully leverage opportunities and realize savings. Most big multinationals go it on their own (see "Contract Manufacturing vs. Standalone vs. Shelter"), managing all aspects of setup and ongoing operations internally. But such an approach is cost-prohibitive for smaller companies.
Success in Mexico – According to Our Clients
Having spent more than a dozen years working closely with our clients on their Mexico strategy, we have learned a lot about what small and midsize manufacturers need to do to succeed. Here are four key things they have shared with us over the years.
Choose the right area
The regions near the U.S. border have been well established for U.S. and Canadian manufacturers for decades. They are close and convenient – but proximity comes at a cost. Compared to the center of Mexico, operating costs near border regions can be as much as 40 percent more, due to greater costs for labor and utilities (higher elevation in central Mexico minimizes HVAC costs).
Work with an experienced partner
Manufacturing in a foreign country has its own set of rules. Seek an expert that knows Mexico well and can minimize risks in realms such as import/export, as an example. A seasoned provider will be able to offer highly experienced specialists who handle all the details of your cross-border functions. They will know the ins and outs of aspects such as C-TPAT and Mexican Customs certifications, enabling products to move into the "fast lane" at the U.S. border. It takes years and fanatical attention to details and customs brokerage to earn these certifications.
Outsource the General & Administrative Services
Stay focused on your core function of producing high-quality goods, and hand off non-production-related aspects to a knowledgeable operator. Including things like: HR, compliance with ever-changing Mexican employment laws, unions, payroll and taxes, environmental health and safety, maintenance, security, accounting, customs permits, logistics and warehousing. The list seems endless.
Consider your ramping up period
This is another area where the experience of an expert is invaluable. We commit to having our clients up and running in as little as 90 days; so it pays to choose the right partner.
You will never be able to cover all of your bases prior to setting up in Mexico for the first time, and you're certain to make missteps along the way. But by choosing a service provider with deep knowledge of the country, you'll be on your way to a successful Mexican manufacturing operation.
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text:
Popular Blue Angels event resumes for 2017
The Blue Angels and the city of Pensacola have partnered together for the popular Blues in the City speaker series.
Popular Blue Angels event resumes for 2017 The Blue Angels and the city of Pensacola have partnered together for the popular Blues in the City speaker series. Check out this story on pnj.com: http://on.pnj.com/2pmJhIo
Melissa Nelson Gabriel, mnelsongab@pnj.com Published 3:33 p.m. CT April 10, 2017 | Updated 3:48 a.m. CT April 11, 2017
In this archived photo from July 11, 2016, former Pensacola Naval Air Station Commanding Officer and former Lead Solo Keith Hoskins, right, and Blue Angels No. 5 Lt. Ryan Chamberlain answer questions from the public during an event in Pensacola. Blues in the City will resume Wednesday..(Photo: Gregg Pachkowski/gpachkowski@pnj)Buy Photo
A popular speaker series featuring current and former Blue Angel pilots will return to downtown Pensacola on Wednesday.
Blues in the City started in 2016 as part of the Pensacola-based flight demonstration team's 70th anniversary season.
Organizers decided to continue the event this year because it was so successful, said Vernon Stewart, spokesman for the city of Pensacola.
The city partnered with the Blue Angels and the Blue Angels Association, an association of former Blue Angels pilots, to create the speaker series.
RELATED CONTENT:French flight team to fly before Blue Angels at Tuesday practice
Blue Angels pilots Lt. Damon Kroes and Lt. Nate Scott will kick off the 2017 series at 6 p.m. Wednesday at Plaza de Luna, 900 S. Palafox St. The pilots will talk about their roles as the team's wingmen.
"We thought this was a good way to bring the Blue Angels closer to the local community," said Stewart, who thanked the Blue Angels and the association of former Blue Angels pilots for helping to organize the series.
Audience members will have a chance to ask questions, and the pilots will be available for autographs afterwards, Stewart said.
Lt. Joe Hontz, spokesman for the Blue Angels, said the speaker series is a fun way for the pilots to spend time with the local community.
"The Blues in the City events last year were a great way for the team to engage with the Pensacola community, and we wanted to continue our interaction with the public," Hontz said. "We want the community to come to these events and ask questions and get to know the team."
RELATED CONTENT:Blue Angels 2018-2019 Flight Leader introduced
The 2016 season included a Solos in the City event featuring a current Blue Angels solo pilot and former Blue Angels solo pilot Capt. Keith Hoskins, who had recently retired as the commander of Pensacola Naval Air Station.
Questions from fans included whether the pilots notice the crowds on the ground during performances and whether there will ever be a female Blue Angels F/A-18 pilot.
The pilots said they do notice the crowds and that it is just a matter of time before the first female is selected to fly in the six-jet formation.
Organizers will announce future Blues in the City events throughout the 2017 season.
Blue Angels 2018-2019 Flight Leader introduced
Cmdr. Ryan Bernacchi, left, applauds as Rear Adm. Dell Bull, right, congratulates Cmdr. Eric Doyle after announcing Doyle as the 2018-2019 Blue Angels flight leader and commanding officer during a news conference at the National Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola on Tuesday, April 4, 2017. Gregg Pachkowski/gregg@pnj.com
Cmdr. Eric Doyle answers questions on Tuesday, April 4, 2017, after it was announced he is the 2018-2019 Blue Angels flight leader and commanding officer during a news conference at the National Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola. Gregg Pachkowski/gregg@pnj.com
Cmdr. Eric Doyle gestures to A-4 Skyhawks on display on Tuesday, April 4, 2017, during a news conference at the National Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola. Doyle, who was named the 2018-2019 Blue Angels flight leader and commanding officer, said the Blue Angels were flying Skyhawks when he first saw them and inspired him to become a naval aviator. Gregg Pachkowski/gregg@pnj.com
Cmdr. Eric Doyle answers questions on Tuesday, April 4, 2017, after it was announced that he is the 2018-2019 Blue Angels flight leader and commanding officer during a news conference at the National Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola. Gregg Pachkowski/gregg@pnj.com
A-4 Skyhawks hang overhead on Tuesday, April 4, 2017, as Cmdr. Eric Doyle answers questions after it was announced he is the 2018-2019 Blue Angels flight leader and commanding officer during a news conference at the National Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola. Doyle said the Blue Angels were flying A-4 Skyhawks when he first saw them and inspired him to become a naval aviator. Gregg Pachkowski/gregg@pnj.com
PHOTOS: Blue Angels, French flight team over Pensacola Beach
On Sunday, April 9, 2017, the Blue Angels delighted fans when they flew over Pensacola Beach joined by special guests - the French flight demonstration team, Patrouille Acrobatique de France. Darlene Schlagheck/Special to the News Journal
On Sunday, April 9, 2017, the Blue Angels delighted fans when they flew over Pensacola Beach joined by special guests - the French flight demonstration team, Patrouille Acrobatique de France. Samantha Smith/Special to the News Journal
On Sunday, April 9, 2017 the Blue Angels delighted fans when they flew over Pensacola Beach joined by special guests - the French flight demonstration team, Patrouille Acrobatique de France. Kate Walker/Special to the News Journal
On Sunday, the Blue Angels delighted fans when they flew over Pensacola Beach joined by special guests - the French flight demonstration team, Patrouille Acrobatique de France. Kate Walker/Special to the News JOurnal
On Sunday, April 9, 2017 the Blue Angels delighted fans when they flew over Pensacola Beach joined by special guests - the French flight demonstration team, Patrouille Acrobatique de France. This shot taken by Kimberly Etscheid was taken from Red Fish Blue Fish on Pensacola Beach Kimberly Etscheid/Special tot he News Journal
On Sunday, April 9, 2017 the Blue Angels delighted fans when they flew over Pensacola Beach joined by special guests - the French flight demonstration team, Patrouille Acrobatique de France. Kate Walker Special to the News Journal
On Sunday, April 9, the Blue Angels delighted fans when they flew over Pensacola Beach joined by special guests - the French flight demonstration team, Patrouille Acrobatique de France. Brian Ramsey/Special to the News Journal
Read or Share this story: http://on.pnj.com/2pmJhIo
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Seattle-based digital media software company RealNetworks has taken control of Napster, doubling its previous stake of around 42% to approximately 84%.
RealNetworks has acquired the debt and equity interests in Napster's owner Rhapsody International, which operates as Rhapsody Applebee, and which is managed by Columbus Nova Technology Partners (CNTP).
Napster, a Spotify and Apple Music rival, will continue to run as an independent subsidiary of RealNetworks with its own board of directors, strategy, and management team.
Bill Patrizio will continue to be Napster's CEO, and Rob Glaser will continue as Napster's Chairman.
In exchange for all of the CNTP-managed equity, debt, and other interests in Napster, RealNetworks has committed to pay $1 million cash up front and an additional $14m over time subject to certain conditions, with additional consideration depending on subsequent events, for a total of up to $40m.
According to an 8-K form filed with the SEC yesterday (January 22), the full $40m will only be paid out in the event that the 42% equity stake is sold within the next five years and the proceeds received by RealNetworks for that sale exceed $60m.
The purchase took place after RealNetworks sought and received special approval from the US Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control to purchase the sanctioned stake in Napster.
Rob Glaser, Chairman and CEO of RealNetworks and Chairman of Napster said: "We are very pleased to have deepened our partnership with Napster.
"Under Bill Patrizio's leadership, Napster has delivered five consecutive quarters of positive operating income and generated over $14 million in operating income in the first three quarters of 2018.
Cary Baker, RealNetworks' CFO, added: "The unique deal structure is one that we believe will drive significant value for RealNetworks' shareholders.
"The terms and deal structure reflect the unusual circumstances that CNTP has been operating under since a major limited partner of its managed funds – including Applebee – was sanctioned by the US Government in April 2018.


Tee itse oma 2000 palan valokuvapalapeli. Luodaksesi omasta valokuvastasi palapelin, paina vain "suunnittele tuote" ja lataa sitten haluamasi kuva. Itse tehdyt valokuvapalapelit ovat mainio lahja!
Nothing to complain about. Quick delivery.
Very fast delivery to Missouri, USA and very good quality. Will buy again.
Puzzles are great. Delivered ridiculously fast, especially since it had to be made and shipped half way across the globe (ships from Latvia) I had it in hand 8 days after submitting the order. I can't wait to give this gift to the recipient.
great job and looks like its good quality.
I loved the puzzle The printing came out really well, and the puzzle pieces were high quality. I definitely recommend this company.
This is the second one I have ordered. It is such a wonderful gift.
AAAAA - package arrived a day early, six week from order...well packaged and protected.
i have not opened the package yet as it is a gift but everything seems great.
Good service, easy to use, with prompt delivery. Only wished the picture on the box covered the whole lid, other wise most pleased.
customer service was good puzzle quality is good, puzzle pieces thickness is good in terms of thickness i was hoping that they would be thicker but there not thinner than other quality puzzle pieces, and the price is good, I order 2000 pcs and i think its was under 80,.. thats not bad for quality work,... so im Happy.
Great Service & very Fast Delivery of the ordered Puzzle. Looks Great & will be ordering more again in the near future.
Amazingly efficient and smooth operation , the quality of the product is excellent.
Great product. Made and sent off very quickly. Thank you.
The product is that good that I have now ordered 4 puzzles in total from you. Thanks so much. Best Mother's Day presents ever.


text:
package goback

import (
	"errors"
	"math"
	"math/rand"
	"time"
)

var (
	// ErrMaxAttemptsExceeded indicates that the maximum retries has been
	// excedeed. Usually to consider a service unreachable/unavailable.
	ErrMaxAttemptsExceeded = errors.New("maximum of attempts exceeded")
)

// Backoff is the interface that any Backoff strategy needs to implement.
type Backoff interface {
	// NextAttempt returns the duration to wait for the next retry.
	NextAttempt() (time.Duration, error)
	// Reset clears the number of tries. Next call to NextAttempt will return
	// the minimum backoff time (if there is no error).
	Reset()
}

// SimpleBackoff provides a simple strategy to backoff.
type SimpleBackoff struct {
	Attempts    int
	MaxAttempts int
	Factor      float64
	Min         time.Duration
	Max         time.Duration
}

// NextAttempt returns the duration to wait for the next retry.
func (b *SimpleBackoff) NextAttempt() (time.Duration, error) {
	if b.MaxAttempts > 0 && b.Attempts >= b.MaxAttempts {
		return 0, ErrMaxAttemptsExceeded
	}
	next := GetNextDuration(b.Min, b.Max, b.Factor, b.Attempts)
	b.Attempts++
	return next, nil
}

// Reset clears the number of tries. Next call to NextAttempt will return
// the minimum backoff time (if there is no error).
func (b *SimpleBackoff) Reset() {
	b.Attempts = 0
}

// JitterBackoff provides an strategy similar to SimpleBackoff but lightly randomises
// the duration to minimise collisions between contending clients.
type JitterBackoff SimpleBackoff

// NextAttempt returns the duration to wait for the next retry.
func (b *JitterBackoff) NextAttempt() (time.Duration, error) {
	if b.MaxAttempts > 0 && b.Attempts >= b.MaxAttempts {
		return 0, ErrMaxAttemptsExceeded
	}
	next := GetNextDuration(b.Min, b.Max, b.Factor, b.Attempts)
	next = addJitter(next, b.Min)
	b.Attempts++
	return next, nil
}

// GetNextDuration returns the duration for the strategies considering the minimum and
// maximum durations, the factor of increase and the number of attemtps tried.
func GetNextDuration(min, max time.Duration, factor float64, attempts int) time.Duration {
	d := time.Duration(float64(min) * math.Pow(factor, float64(attempts)))
	if d > max {
		return max
	}
	return d
}

// Wait sleeps for the duration of the time specified by the backoff strategy.
func Wait(b Backoff) error {
	next, err := b.NextAttempt()
	if err != nil {
		return err
	}
	time.Sleep(next)
	return nil
}

// After returns a channel that will be called after the time specified by the backoff
// strategy or will exit immediately with an error.
func After(b Backoff) <-chan error {
	c := make(chan error, 1)
	next, err := b.NextAttempt()
	if err != nil {
		c <- err
		return c
	}
	go func() {
		time.Sleep(next)
		c <- nil
	}()
	return c
}

// addJitter randomises the final duration
func addJitter(next, min time.Duration) time.Duration {
	return time.Duration(rand.Float64()*float64(2*min) + float64(next-min))
}

func init() {
	rand.Seed(time.Now().UTC().UnixNano())
}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub