text:
Specialist providers of high-quality construction projects for clients throughout London and the Home Counties
Special Works
Enhancing the quality of the building process through refurbishment and new build solutions for the public sector
Specialists in bringing existing buildings up to current fire safe standards
Build Group
PROJECTS OUR PEOPLE CAREERS & TRAINEES COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT NEWS CONTACT US
Spotlight On : Reuben Hayes
Posted on Group, May 27, 2021
In the spotlight this month is Reuben Hayes, operations director at Diamond Special Works, who gives an insight into his role, working his way up from being an apprentice, and what it's like to work for the team.
What does your role involve?
Generally, it involves overviewing all the logistical aspects of site-based contracts. This could include delegating work to the various operational teams, regular progress meetings with clients and managers, setting targets and objectives for all staff, and reviewing construction programmes, budgets, labour levels and risk to ensure projects remain on programme.
Operational reports are presented at each monthly board meeting to report on progress, so my role also involves monitoring performance against agreed criteria as well as ensuring our contractual obligations are met, all while delivering high-quality work within time and budget.
What makes Diamond Special Works different to other contractors?
One of the benefits of being part of the Diamond Build Group is that each company works within clearly defined parameters. A lot of our competitors will take on both small and large value projects, but Diamond Special Works only deals with smaller value projects up to circa £1.5million.
That means our team of directly employed labour and specially selected sub-contractors are highly experienced in delivering these types of projects on time and to budget. They are also skilled at navigating the various issues and complexities associated with this type of work and which can vary greatly from much larger, higher value contracts.
Personally, I have spent over 30 years working in the 'special works' sized segment of the industry starting as a site labourer and then an apprentice, and then going on to become a tradesman, site manager, and now an operations director – and it's a sector I'd be happy to work in until I retire.
As a former apprentice, what are your career highlights to date?
As an apprentice, I studied hard to absorb everything possible on the course, which paid dividends as I achieved a distinction in both standard and advanced level city & guilds; results which I was very proud of at the time.
Once qualified as a tradesman, I had a steady stream of apprentices placed under my tutelage, many of whom went on to have successful careers in their own right. I got great satisfaction from passing on my knowledge and experience to others, as long as they were willing to put the necessary effort in as I had!
My next highlight was when I was given my first contract to run as a working foreman for a small refurbishment project at a residential home in Tufnell Park. I was proud that management here had confidence in my ability to manage the works. The job went very well and over the ensuing years, the size and complexity of projects under my jurisdiction grew.
Between 2001 and 2017, I worked elsewhere but again constantly improved my skillset, learning the ins and outs of health and safety, and project management. I even ran an accounts department for eight years, among other duties, which all helped me to gain an improved understanding of the industry.
Upon my return to Diamond Special Works in July 2017, I was delighted to be made general manager of the company and then promoted to operations director in 2019. As an apprentice at Diamond Build in the early 1990s, I never thought I'd be sitting here as a director thirty years later, and I'm thankful to Diamond Build for the opportunity.
What advice would you offer to others thinking about becoming an apprentice?
Firstly, I would advise that they think carefully about whether their proposed career path is what they really want to do. I have seen several cases where a candidate has started an apprenticeship because they thought it was an easy option, or as in one case because 'the advert said the work was local!'
An apprenticeship is a lengthy commitment to make for both the candidate and the employer, requiring honest dedication from the candidate, and continued financial support and career development from the employer. With the right attitude, the benefits are plentiful. You will be qualified and have learnt skills that will stay with you for life, meaning you will always have an avenue to employment.
The wrong attitude will lead to wasted time and effort on the candidate's part, and wasted time, money and resources on the employer's part, so everyone loses. To highlight this, when I started my apprenticeship, there were 96 students spread across three classes in my year, and this had reduced to 30 students by the start of year two, and 18 at the start of year three, all of whom passed the basic C&G qualification. When I returned for my advanced level, year four, only six of the original 96 students completed the course.
In short, with the right attitude, an apprenticeship is a wonderful opportunity, but it is definitely not an easy option. Anyone who thinks otherwise would be best advised to seek an alternative career path.
What do you like most about working for Diamond Special Works?
I have always enjoyed working in this part of the industry. The contracts are generally relatively short, so you encounter a wide variety of projects in widespread locations, meaning you never get bored or stale.
In Special Works, we carry out a large number of small projects in the sub 10k category, requiring a more personal touch as these jobs are predominantly in occupied premises, often with vulnerable residents. We also carry out plenty of repeat business for a number of NHS trusts, mainly in the mental health sector improving existing facilities and infrastructure, and these projects are always rewarding.
I have always enjoyed the close-knit way of working in Special Works. There is no 'them and us' ideology between the site operatives and management. I have always tried to instil the idea of everything being a collaborative team effort, with everyone playing their part. In my early years here, there was a similar ethos. The management team, like myself, were former tradespeople, and I have always found it a successful way of working
52-68 Stamford Rd,
London N15 4PZ,
Diamond Build Diamond Special Works Diamond Fire Safety Projects
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text:
What Lipstick Shade Does Meghan Markle Wear? I Tried All The Rumored Shades IRL
By Kali Borovic
Pool/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images/Kali Borovic
The Meghan Markle effect is real, and I'm not just talking about her fashion. Every single time that the soon-to-be royal steps into the public eye, she's wearing something that people inevitably become obsessed with. But there's one thing that always stays very consistent — her lipstick. Meghan Markle always wears the same lipstick when she's on her royal outings, and subsequently, there has been a lot of debate about which shade of lipstick is Markle's favorite. While Allure reported that the shade is Charlotte Tilbury's lipstick in Very Victoria, celebrity makeup artists don't completely agree.
"By the looks of it, there's a great chance she's wearing Chanel lipstick in these photos. To me it looks like she's wearing 'Adrienne' Rouge Coco Ultra Hydrating Lip Color," celebrity makeup artist Patrick Ta tells Bustle.
Avon celebrity makeup artist Kelsey Deenihan agreed with Ta on the brand, but tells Bustle that it's more likely the shade Cécile.
So, which one is it? In an attempt to set the record straight once and for all, I tried every single lipstick that people think it might be. The options included Charlotte Tilbury Lipstick in Very Victoria, Penelope Pink, and The Duchess as well as Chanel's Rouge Coco Lipstick in Cécile and Adrienne.
Kali Borovic
Personally, I thought that she was just wearing a lip balm, since her lips seem to have a light wash of color and glossiness. So when I heard that she loves the Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment, I thought that it had to be that. But as soon as I applied the Chanel shades, I started to change my mind. Cécile and Adrienne are shades that enhances the natural color of lips without masking it. The formula is sheer pink with a slight sparkle to it. They are both the kind of color that looks great right when you apply it and after it's been worn for a few hours. Plus when it starts to fade, you almost can't notice. Basically, it's great for an on-the-go royal.
While neither Chanel nor Charlotte Tilbury would comment on whether or not Markle wears the brand's lipsticks, I will say that they're both great options for getting a royal lip. While Chanel's formula was closer to the public images of Markle, the names of Charlotte Tilbury's would fit the part.
But don't just take me word for it, see for yourself.
Charlotte Tilbury's Very Victoria
Left Image:Kali Borovic Right Image:Chris Jackson/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images
This is the shade that many publications report is Markle's go-to shade. As you can see from the photo it looks darker on me than it does on her, but that could be attributed to our difference in skin tone.
Chanel Rouge Coco in Cécil
This shade gives off the perfect amount of color that enhances but doesn't mask the lips. The way that is faded off my lips throughout the day also made me believe that it was Markle's go-to shade — something about it felt very familiar.
Charlotte Tillbury's The Duchess
While this shade is definitely in the same pink family, it's a little too dark to be Markle's go-to (even when taking our difference of skin tone into consideration). Especially since it keeps its' rosy hue even as it begins to fade. It's a gorgeous color, just not the most royal, if you will.
Chanel Rouge Coco in Adrienne
Left Image:Kali Borovic Right Image:Pool/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images
If Markle's favorite shade isn't Cécile, then it could be this one. Everything from the shine to the shade was spot on. Bonus points that it looks incredible with any eyeshadow look as well.
I will admit that I was a bit disappointed to see that the shade didn't match with Charlotte Tilbury's lipstick shades. It would have been incredible to think that she was wearing a shade called The Duchess or Very Victoria. But during my wear test, the shade didn't look anything like Markle's. The problem was that the colors are too opaque to be a match.
If you're looking to get the same lip tint as Markle, the Chanel Rouge Coco Lipstick will set you back a cool $37. While that's not exactly the most affordable out there, it's likely the closest to royal that you will ever come. If you can't wear the crown, the lipstick is the next best thing.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
/* TEMPLATE GENERATED TESTCASE FILE
Filename: CWE78_OS_Command_Injection__wchar_t_console_system_31.c
Label Definition File: CWE78_OS_Command_Injection.one_string.label.xml
Template File: sources-sink-31.tmpl.c
*/
/*
 * @description
 * CWE: 78 OS Command Injection
 * BadSource: console Read input from the console
 * GoodSource: Fixed string
 * Sinks: system
 *    BadSink : Execute command in data using system()
 * Flow Variant: 31 Data flow using a copy of data within the same function
 *
 * */

#include "std_testcase.h"

#include <wchar.h>

#ifdef _WIN32
#define FULL_COMMAND L"%WINDIR%\\system32\\cmd.exe /c dir "
#else
#include <unistd.h>
#define FULL_COMMAND L"/bin/sh ls -la "
#endif

#ifdef _WIN32
#define SYSTEM _wsystem
#else /* NOT _WIN32 */
#define SYSTEM system
#endif

#ifndef OMITBAD

void CWE78_OS_Command_Injection__wchar_t_console_system_31_bad()
{
    wchar_t * data;
    wchar_t data_buf[100] = FULL_COMMAND;
    data = data_buf;
    {
        /* Read input from the console */
        size_t dataLen = wcslen(data);
        /* if there is room in data, read into it from the console */
        if (100-dataLen > 1)
        {
            /* POTENTIAL FLAW: Read data from the console */
            if (fgetws(data+dataLen, (int)(100-dataLen), stdin) != NULL)
            {
                /* The next few lines remove the carriage return from the string that is
                 * inserted by fgetws() */
                dataLen = wcslen(data);
                if (dataLen > 0 && data[dataLen-1] == L'\n')
                {
                    data[dataLen-1] = L'\0';
                }
            }
            else
            {
                printLine("fgetws() failed");
                /* Restore NUL terminator if fgetws fails */
                data[dataLen] = L'\0';
            }
        }
    }
    {
        wchar_t * dataCopy = data;
        wchar_t * data = dataCopy;
        /* POTENTIAL FLAW: Execute command in data possibly leading to command injection */
        if (SYSTEM(data) <= 0)
        {
            printLine("command execution failed!");
            exit(1);
        }
    }
}

#endif /* OMITBAD */

#ifndef OMITGOOD

/* goodG2B() uses the GoodSource with the BadSink */
static void goodG2B()
{
    wchar_t * data;
    wchar_t data_buf[100] = FULL_COMMAND;
    data = data_buf;
    /* FIX: Append a fixed string to data (not user / external input) */
    wcscat(data, L"*.*");
    {
        wchar_t * dataCopy = data;
        wchar_t * data = dataCopy;
        /* POTENTIAL FLAW: Execute command in data possibly leading to command injection */
        if (SYSTEM(data) <= 0)
        {
            printLine("command execution failed!");
            exit(1);
        }
    }
}

void CWE78_OS_Command_Injection__wchar_t_console_system_31_good()
{
    goodG2B();
}

#endif /* OMITGOOD */

/* Below is the main(). It is only used when building this testcase on
 * its own for testing or for building a binary to use in testing binary
 * analysis tools. It is not used when compiling all the testcases as one
 * application, which is how source code analysis tools are tested.
 */
#ifdef INCLUDEMAIN

int main(int argc, char * argv[])
{
    /* seed randomness */
    srand( (unsigned)time(NULL) );
#ifndef OMITGOOD
    printLine("Calling good()...");
    CWE78_OS_Command_Injection__wchar_t_console_system_31_good();
    printLine("Finished good()");
#endif /* OMITGOOD */
#ifndef OMITBAD
    printLine("Calling bad()...");
    CWE78_OS_Command_Injection__wchar_t_console_system_31_bad();
    printLine("Finished bad()");
#endif /* OMITBAD */
    return 0;
}

#endif

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


In the wake of a newly elected president and a Republican congressional majority, the future of health policy and technological innovation is far from clear. When the Affordable Care Act (ACA) was passed in 2010, it not only extended health insurance coverage to 200 million Americans but also paved the way for a 600% increase in digital health funding by introducing new market forces and value-based incentives into the industry. However, House Republicans recently rolled out their plan to repeal and replace the ACA. The American Healthcare Act (AHCA), and the package of amendments subsequently released, propose a number of fundamental changes, including elimination of both the individual mandate (replaced with premium penalties for those with discontinuous coverage) and the employer mandate, a prohibition on any further state Medicaid expansion and a significant roll back of current expansion via a shift to per capita or block state grants after 2020. The current plan proposes keeping a few popular elements of the ACA, including the bans on preexisting conditions and lifetime coverage caps and the provision allowing children under 26 to remain on their parents' coverage. Further changes are expected and the future of the Republican healthcare plan itself remains unclear, as there is internal GOP disagreement about the AHCA.
We at RubiconMD are keenly interested in how the AHCA (or any bill that ultimately passes) will affect healthcare throughout the country, and in particular what the changes will mean for technological innovation. Last week, the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) advised that the bill would lead to a significant reduction in health insurance coverage, with 14 million fewer Americans covered by 2018 and 24 million by 2026. Although the future is uncertain, as we spoke to experts from across the country at HIMSS and the NYC-based Junto Health Summit to understand how impending shifts will impact tech investments, it became clear that they all agree on one thing: digital health innovation in healthcare will have an even greater impact in light of the changes ahead.
What does the new plan mean for the healthcare industry?
The Republican healthcare agenda reflects the quintessential Republican theme of individual responsibility. The AHCA, a budget reconciliation bill, constitutes the first phase of the agenda. Phase two will likely involve numerous administrative changes from DHHS, including the relaxation of essential health benefits and making public exchanges more insurer-friendly, and phase three will see the introduction of sweeping legislation addressing the remaining desired reforms.
How will these changes affect innovation in digital health?
With uncertain but impending policy changes in the pipeline, industry experts agree that the country will need digital health innovation more than ever to ensure an equitable and sustainable healthcare ecosystem that supports all patients. Value-based care incentives will continue to drive technological transformation irrespective of the ACA or its repeal, and opportunities for tech-based solutions to access and cost challenges abound. We may be a little biased but as far as we're concerned, it's a pretty exciting time to be an innovator in healthcare technology.
Gil Addo is CEO and cofounder of RubiconMD and a member of the Forbes 2016 30 Under 30 list for healthcare. Michelle Katz is general counsel and policy lead at RubiconMD.


text:
Click here to go to our page on simultaneous transmit and receive (STAR) (new for January 2020)
Click here to go to a page on Fundamentals of Radio Course, linking to videos produced by Professor David Ricketts at NCSU (new for August 2019)
Click here to go to our page on atmospheric attenuation (new for April 2019)
Click here to go to our companion "Radar101" page
Click here to listen to songs about radio
On this page we will tie together our content on microwave communication systems, or anything else that could contain the word "radio".
Radio astronomy is a kind of radio, but is very different from the normal communications function of most radio. Here's a page on radiometric receivers (used in radio astronomy).
Noise temperature is how most radio designers think of noise, as opposed to noise figure that is used in radar design.
Here's a page on noise temperature, noise figure and noise factor conversion. And here's a noise conversion calculator you can use
Outside of Microwaves101, here is a good site to learn about noise in receivers:
http://www.reeve.com/Documents/Noise/Reeve_Noise_3_AttenAmpNoise.pdf
Software-defined radio (SDR) is a growing field, which spans analog and digital design. Click here to learn about SDR.
Microwave amateur radio (HAM) is discussed here.


text:
import React from 'react'
import { Route, IndexRoute } from 'react-router'

import TreeWrapper from '../../components/TreeWrapper'
import ToolbarWrapper from '../../components/ToolbarWrapper'

import Tree from '../../containers/Tree'
import ChildrenToolbar from '../../containers/ChildrenToolbar'
import ChildrenTable from '../../containers/ChildrenTable'
import FormToolbar from '../../containers/FormToolbar'
import Form from '../../containers/Form'

import { ContainerFactory } from '../../tools'
import Schema from '../../schema'
import FolderActions from '../../actions'

import Settings from '../settings'
import RouteHandlers from './routehandlers'

const templateFactory = (opts = {}) => {

  opts = Settings(opts)

  // Wrap the left hand sidebar wrapper with a wider width
  const NavWrapper = ContainerFactory({
    width:opts.width
  })(TreeWrapper)

  const routes = RouteHandlers({
    path:opts.path
  })

  const actions = FolderActions(Object.assign({}, opts, {
    routes
  }))

  const schema = Schema(opts)

  const factory = ContainerFactory({
    actions:actions,
    handlers:routes.routeHandlers,
    info:routes.routeInfo
  })

  const containers = {
    tree:factory(Tree, {
      getIcon:opts.getIcon
    }),
    childrenToolbar:factory(ChildrenToolbar, {
      getDescriptors:schema.getDescriptors,
      filterActions:schema.filterActions,
      isEditable:schema.isEditable,
      getChildren:opts.childrenToolbarChildren,
      getIcon:opts.getIcon
    }),
    childrenTable:factory(ChildrenTable, {
      getFields:schema.getTableFields,
      showCheckboxes:true,
      showHeader:opts.showTableHeader,
      multiSelectable:true
    }),
    formToolbar:factory(FormToolbar, {
      getSchema:schema.getSchema,
      isEditable:schema.isEditable,
      getChildren:opts.formToolbarChildren,
      getIcon:opts.getIcon
    }),
    form:factory(Form, {
      getSchema:schema.getSchema,
      getContext:opts.getFormContext,
      getItemType:schema.getItemType,
      getLibrary:schema.getLibrary,
      getNewItem:schema.getNewItem,
      isEditable:schema.isEditable
    })
  }
  const views = {
    tree:{
      sidebar: containers.tree,
      main: ToolbarWrapper
    },
    view:{
      toolbar: containers.childrenToolbar,
      main: containers.childrenTable
    },
    edit:{
      toolbar: containers.formToolbar,
      main: containers.form
    }
  }

  const getRoutes = (onEnter) => {
    return (
      <Route component={NavWrapper}>
        <Route path={opts.path} components={views.tree} onEnter={onEnter}>
          <IndexRoute components={views.view} />
          <Route path="view" components={views.view} />
          <Route path="view/:id" components={views.view} />
          <Route path="delete/:parent/:ids" components={views.view} />
          <Route path="edit/:id" components={views.edit} />
          <Route path="edit/:parent/:id" components={views.edit} />
          <Route path="add/:parent/:type" components={views.edit} />
        </Route>
      </Route>
    )
  }

  return {
    name:opts.name,
    db:opts.db,
    actions,
    getRoutes
  }
}

export default templateFactory


A bicycle is one machine that helps keeps us lean and green. May is National Bike Month!
To support "Bike to Work Week", a few of the crew at Ruff Wear pedaled their way to work last week.
Our home state of Oregon has been ranked No. 4 in the most "Most Bike Friendly States" according to the League of American Bicyclists. This ranking was a result of Oregon's leadership in a Complete Streets Policy, which considers all roadway users, including bicyclists, when constructing roads. Oregon also excels in highlighting its fantastic cycling opportunities through its bike tourism promotion.
Congratulations to everyone who participated in "National Bike to Work Week" and those who regularly make biking a part of their regular commute.
Did you bike to work last week? Let us know!
Tonight is the Ride of Silence in Bend.
The Ride of Silence invites the Central Oregon community to remember those fallen cyclists by joining in a 5-mile, slow-paced (maximum pace of 10-12 mph) bike ride through the streets of Bend.
The ride will start and finish at Bend City Hall parking lot. The Ride is neither a race nor a party, but respectful and non-confrontational in character. Cyclists are encouraged to wear black armbands in memory of cyclists who have been killed and red armbands to indicate cyclists who have been injured in an accident. Bicyclists of all ages and abilities are invited to participate. Riders MUST wear bike helmets and obey all traffic controls. Bends Ride of Silence will depart from the City Hall parking area across from the public library at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 20. After brief introductory remarks, participants will leave on the easy, mostly flat, 5-mile ride.


PHW is a unique national program built upon community based non-profit volunteerism dedicated to the physical and psychological rehabilitation of active duty military personnel and veterans. Participants are introduced to the therapeutic benefits of fly tying, casting, rod building and fly fishing. The two MVFF programs (Las Cruces and El Paso) are among the nearly 200 such programs around the country; there are only three in New Mexico and six in Texas. The activities emphasized in our PHW programs are not only central to the club's stated mission, but they are a meaningful way to give back to service men and women who have given so much to our country.
I have a great new hobby because of you guys. Thank you!
We really appreciate you! Thanks for helping heal our soldiers!
Thank you so much for your generosity, hospitality and friendliness during our trip. The food was phenomenal! Had a blast fishing.
If you haven't already done so, visit the national PHW website to learn more about the program, and especially to view the videos that provide compelling evidence of the positive impact of Project Healing Waters on the lives of real people (www.projecthealingwaters.org/video-gallery/).
Ron Bellerose has been a real champion as Project Lead for 2 PHW programs, through the Las Cruces Vet Center, and William Beaumont AMC in El Paso. The Las Cruces program is one of only three in New Mexico, the others being located in Taos and Albuquerque. There are only 6 programs in all of Texas, and the next closest one is in Amarillo, 440 miles away. So, for southern New Mexico and most of far west Texas, the MVFF programs are the only opportunities our soldiers and vets have to participate in PHW.
For more information contact Ron Bellerose (575-680-5516), flyfishnh@hotmail.com). Hopefully, you will seriously consider volunteering your time to help out. This is a very important program and one from which you will get an immense sense of satisfaction.


I was wearing a zox brigade helmet the night of September 3, 2016. I was merging onto I-80 Eastbound in Sparks, NV. I was getting up to highway speed and looking over my left shoulder to shift lanes when my front wheel hit something in the road. I lost control of the motorcycle and did a low side fall.
I was wearing an armored jacket and gloves with polycarbonate knuckles along with the helmet. I remember waking up strapped to the back board and being taken by an ambulance to the ER. The only complaint of pain I had was to the little finger on my right hand.
Once released from the ER, I was given my riding clothes and helmet back. The helmet was scratched mostly on the right side of the visor. The inner foam core was cracked into many pieces. It did its job. I had no concussion or any other type of head injury. I essentially walked out of the ER with a case of road rash.
I just bought a new zox brigade helmet for this riding season. When they say "dress for the crash'" for me that includes a zox helmet. you guys have nothing more to prove to me.


The game of golf requires an incredible amount of time and patience. A typical 18 hole round takes about 4 and a half hours to complete, time which does not include travel, warm up or stopping to eat lunch. What is even more amazing about the amount of time spent is that over the course of your round you only actually swing the club for a total of about 2 minutes! This means that actually making the strokes that will cokunt toward your round, including the pre-shot routine, comprise about 1% of total time spent on the course. Even more amazing is that these figures are for normal rounds of golf, tournament rounds can take upwards of 5+ hours and are generally associated with more travel time and practice time on the range. With this kind of a time investment it is crucial to make choices that will maximize this the most.
I play in a women's golf league that sponsors Tournaments every week from May until August. I have made this golf league the set point for my weekly schedule during the season. It rotates around to a different course each week, so I feel almost as though I am playing on a mini-tour, and is also very inexpensive (only $45 gains entry into the tournament, and covers greens fees, a cart, continental breakfast, and lunch), and the format is stroke play. I recently received an invitation to play in a tournament at very posh course nearby. Some of the county's best amateurs were expected to be there and the better ball format could make scoring easier than normal if I chose my partner properly. I had to decline, however, with it in the middle of the week I would need to hire child care or impose on relatives, pay the somewhat steep entry fee, and shift my normal schedule. It would simply not be worth the time and money. This is common as other nearby tournaments often cost a lot more to enter and have a different format, e.g. a scramble, which doesn't force me to focus on all aspects of my game in the same way. Also, it has enabled me regular experience at playing under tournament style pressure because both your playing partners and the course change every week and awards are given to people who score well; so it is important to me to prioritize this in my schedule. When you must make sacrifices it is important that your ROI (return on investment) is worth it. What thing can you do every week or every day that will make the most impact on your game?
If you can find a reasonably priced membership by all means do so. Let us suppose, for example, that you play 3 times per week at $35 to walk 18 holes at a nearby course. Just the cost of these weekly rounds will total around $472 per month, not including carts, or the amount of a monthly car payment! A membership of $1500 per year, however, will cost a grand total of only $187 per month for April through Nov, (even less if you live where you can play year-round), and will give you almost unlimited play.
I can say from personal experience that I have blown more than one round because of a tiff with my hubby as I was walking out the door that morning or because of an annoying conversation with my best friend the night before. Don't take your personal life home! (And likewise don't take frustrations from your round home with you). The mental side of golf is huge as we all know. However, **Champions have the ability to separate what's happening on the course from what is happening in their personal lives as much as possible.


text:
Q: jsonify an array of strings I have an array in my database that is being stored in the following format

["size:medium","height:10cm"]

this is problematic to display in a table.
Is there any way that I can convert this into a Javascript object or a JSON string like this?

{"size":"medium","height":"10cm"
  }

p.s:i know json.stringfy,json_encode.the thing is they have stored key value pair as one string

A: You can try something like this:
Note: Following code will make array of objects. I don't think {["size:medium", "height:10cm"]} is a valid object

(function() {
  var styleArr = ["size:medium", "height:10cm", "font-size: 18px"];
  var resultObject = {};

  styleArr.forEach(function(item) {
    var values = item.replace(/\"/g, '').split(':');
    resultObject[values[0]] = values[1];
  });

  console.log(resultObject)
})()

A: You can build an object with the elements of the array and the left part as key and the right part as value of the by : separated strings.
array                       object
--------------------------- ---------------------------
[                      ->   {
    "size:medium",     ->       size: "medium",
    "height:10cm"      ->       height: "10cm"
]                      ->   }

var array = ["size:medium", "height:10cm"],
    object = array.reduce(function (r, a) {
        var t = a.split(':');
        r[t[0]] = t[1];
        return r;
    }, {});

document.write('<pre>' + JSON.stringify(object, 0, 4) + '</pre>');

A: In Javascript you can use JSON.parse(), in order to convert your array in Javascript Object.

A: In PHP Use : json_encode(text)
In JavaScript : JSON.parse(text)

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


Our team ensures we are treating our client holistically by assessing each client's overall brain health. No matter what service you are primarily seeking at IBH, we strive to identify a wide range of problems that could be causing or contributing to the problem. We collaborate with our clients to create a treatment plan designed to improve overall brain health.
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RealTime IT News
Newslinx
Home Storage HP Fires Shot in Network Storage Battle
HP Fires Shot in Network Storage Battle
By Judy Mottl | January 17, 2008
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Enterprises shopping for high-end network attached storage (NAS) this year might want to wait until the fall, as vendor competition is heating up: HP is throwing down the gauntlet before Network Appliance (NetApp) about how it intends to grab customers and market traction.
"We think we have the right ingredients such as industry-standard components and clustered software, making storage easy to manage and highly available for the high-end NAS customer," Michael Callahan, chief technologist of HP's StorageWorks NAS division, told InternetNews.com.
"We're making deeper investments in our core technologies, and we plan to aggressively compete against NetApp," he added.
HP said its acquisition of PolyServe, which it bought for a reported $200 million in February 2007, is the linchpin in its quest to be a major player in the high-end NAS space. This acquisition followed a partnership of two years, during which HP melded the technology into its StorageWorks EVA FileServices product.
PolyServe's application consolidates and virtualizes NAS in Windows and Linux environments and works with industry standard hardware. The software lets file or database servers be consolidated into a single, shared storage pool.
In addition to providing clustering applications, PolyServe also gives HP a high-performance consolidation platform for databases in the HP technology portfolio.
Callahan points to HP's strong foothold in the lower end of the market and believes that its NAS strategy, which includes providing an all-in-one cluster storage box, makes the company an "up-and-coming competitor."
"We're going to give [NetApp] a run for their money," Callahan said.
The HP-PolyServe deal allowed HP to extend NAS technology to servers, creating the Enterprise File Services Clustered Gateway. HP then enhanced the software to support block as well file storage and began shipping the StorageWorks EVA File Services, which was bundled with the vendor's storage area network (SAN) array.
Yet how much of the high-end NAS market HP can grab is more than a bit speculative at this point, according to one industry-watcher. The battle for customer base will be tied to customer needs and requirements, said John Webster, IT principle advisor at research firm Illuminata.
"It will all depend on what problem the customer has to solve and the user environment," Webster told InternetNews.com, adding that "there's room enough [in the market] for both vendors."
HP said its storage product line adheres to industry-standard components, and while that may prove alluring to some enterprises tethered to industry standards, "quite a few other factors" come into product choice and storage decision-making, Webster said.
"One buyer may have gone with a standard environment, but that user could also say that while standards are important the features another vendor offers are more compelling," he said.
According to HP, PolyServe's ability to cluster in the storage environment is a key element it provides. Clustering technology is nothing new, as it's been widely adopted in the server environments and it's set to take off in storage. Research firm Gartner predicted 40 percent of mid to high-end NAS revenue will be generated by cluster file systems by 2012.
Yet Webster describes clustering as "fairly new" when it comes to storage adoption.
"It's a proven technology and really hasn't shown up on the storage side, only because new technology adoption tends to be slow as storage administrators are notoriously adverse to risk," he said.
"As the final custodians of data they're very focused on reliability and stability so there's been slower adoption of clustering and storage virtualization overall," he added.
But that clearly isn't daunting to HP. The bigger trend, Callahan said, is that storage servers are proving to be valuable workhorses when it comes to handling mission-critical workloads.
"The key point, as data loads increase in the enterprise, is that the enterprise needs a solution they can build out to deal with the vast quantity of data," he said. "Using separate boxes that have to be managed individually isn't efficient. Clustering allows for simplification and reduces the complexity in storage management."
HP expects to announce new product options tied to its clustering solution by late summer, he added.
"Clustering allows for simplification and reduces the complexity in storage management. We've proven how well it works for the server environment and believe it will have the same success on the storage side," Callahan said, adding HP storage products reflecting that strategy could be appearing by late summer.
When the PolyServe acquisition was first announced, industry observers noted that the technology buy-up would not only make HP a competitor to NetApp but also to heavyweights such as EMS and Hitachi Data Systems.
But it clearly won't be a quick or easy battle. According to IDC's Worldwide Quarterly Storage Software Tracker Q3 2007, NetApp grew nine times faster than the storage software market from the second to third quarter of last year, and maintained or gained share in each market segment in which it provides offerings.
"Network Appliance's combination of a scalable, modular architecture; robust software offerings; and common management interface should allow the vendor to retain a leadership position in the NAS market, as well as move into the mainstream SAN environment," IDC research director William Roch wrote in a report last month.
"Recent strong market share data confirms that this message is being well received by NetApp's customer base," he added.
Yet HP's clustering/virtualization approach appears to be on target, according to IDC's storage predictions for this year.
The research firm found virtual servers will emerge as the killer application for iSCSI, and vendors will be creating more-attractive, all-in-one solutions using an integrated server and storage approach, specifically in the SMB environment.
What it all could boil down to for storage customers is better technology options and, very likely, competitive product pricing opportunities.
"If storage buyers can hold off till the right time, usually at year's end, they'll see aggressive product discounts," Webster said.
Software | Security | Storage | Servers | Networking & Communications
Developer | Small Business | Mobile | IT Management | Columns | Newslinx


Manager John Sheridan believed his side fully deserved the three points against his former club Chesterfield yesterday.
Mike Jones' only goal of the game on 79 minutes was the difference between the two sides and Sheridan admitted his side were full value for their victory.
He said: "It was a great battling performance and it's about what you get at the end of it and we fully deserved the three points. It was a good workmanlike performance.
"I've said it before, I'd love to pass the ball but it's difficult. We were the better team in the first half. Their goalkeeper has been involved a lot more than ours has and I thought we kept going and pushing on leading up to the goal.
Jones' goal is only his third goal of the season, and he has now provided a selection headache for the gaffer.
"I said to him when he went on to prove to me that I made the wrong decision to leave him out," he commented.
"I thought him and Winchester did well but I had Chesterfield watched on Saturday and I feel that the team I started with would have caused them problems.
The win did come at a cost, however, as loanees Aaron Amadi-Holloway and Timmy Thiele were forced off with concerning injuries.
"I'm not sure what Aaron has done yet," Sheridan admitted. "We know he's done his ankle but we'll have to assess him and Timmy's shoulder popped out so that's a sore one.


Whoever said that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, must have eaten at the Atlanta Breakfast Club. I went in not knowing exactly what we wanted to eat, but then the menu grabbed me by the collar & told me I was going to have the breakfast tacos. It was a delightfully bizarre dish. They cook 3 flour tortillas in a French toast batter, stuff them with scrambled eggs & smoked bacon, then drizzle syrup over them. What!? Seriously, what mad scientist thought of this tasty concept? Simply delicious!!!
Sadly, my wife did not share my enthusiasm. After she finished her fried green tomato BLT, she said, " I liked that the fried green tomatoes were thick sliced, but the biscuits fell apart when trying to eat them. The avocado and corn spread was my favorite part, with the corn crunchy and sweet. It was good but I wouldn't order it again."
It would be funny to say that after that adventure, we went to eat some seafood, but no instead we went for pizza & wings at Max's Coal Oven Pizzeria. We shared a pizza and an order of outstanding lemon & herb wings. Fried, tender, juicy and we loved the seasoning. As for the pizza, we had them add pepperoni to their Bianca specialty pizza. I thought it was awesome that they use a coal fired oven. It's nice how there were charred bubbles of dough. It reminded me a lot of 5 Ate Cafe back home. There was a perfect amount of cheese and the pepperoni was the tasty small thin discs.
Never stay overnight anyplace that is less than what we live in.
Never eat someplace that we can eat at home.
Now for our next stop, we broke rule #2. We happened to walk past Sub Zero Nitrogen Ice Cream. Ice cream sounded awesome on a hot Atlanta day. So we went in to share a small cup.
After that debacle, we took off to see another of Shelly's Roadside America sites. This time it was the replica White House. Dream project of a builder, three-quarters the size of the one in Washington. Contains an Oval Office and Lincoln bedroom. Built in the early 2000s, but was sold in a foreclosure in 2011. Now it's a private home.
I found an article that sheds more light on it's history.
We arrived back at the hotel, too tired to go back out for dinner, so we ordered room service. They set up a table complete with white linen tablecloth, ice waters, and a small plant for ambiance.
I had their signature burger with a side of sriracha mayo & honey mustard. You can tell this was a hand formed patty, as it fell apart. Well seasoned, juicy, and cooked to order medium well. I liked the brioche bun, grilled and fluffy. The fries were good, but I should have requested them twice fried as I prefer crispy fries.
Shelly had the turkey club with house made chips. This club was stacked with meat, a lot more meat to bread. The sriracha mayo added a good tang to the sandwich, the bacon was perfectly crispy, and the house made chips were awesome. Definitely a great room service option.
Hey yo, can you come get this stuff?
Oh man, I'm stuffed! It's time to catch some shut eye, 'cause tomorrow we are going zombie huntin'. Well really, checking out filming sites from one the best shows on TV, The Walking Dead!


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Home / Books—Nonfiction / Windy City Pulp Stories No.15 by Tom Roberts (editor)
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The 125th Birthday of H.P. Lovecraft and Recognizing the 75th Anniversary of the Street & Smith Comics.
Windy City Pulp Stories No.15 by Tom Roberts (editor) quantity
SKU: 978-1884449611 Category: Books—Nonfiction Tags: pulp history, reference, research
Celebrating the 125th Birthday of H.P. Lovecraft and Recognizing the 75th Anniversary of the Street & Smith Comics.
A must have for anyone interested in the history of the pulp magazine field!
H.P. Lovecraft Celebration
"Shadows Over Lovecraft," by David H. Keller, MD
"My First Lovecraft," by F. Paul Wilson
"Collecting Lovecraft: A Gallery," by Gene Christie
"Lovecraft and Pseudo-Mathematics," by Robert Weinberg
"How Great Britain 'Discovered' H.P. Lovecraft," by Stephen Jones
"The Call of Khalk'ru and Other Speculations," by Will Murray
"Lovecraft and Weird Tales," by S.T. Joshi
"A Lovecraft Rarity," by Doug Ellis
"Lovecraft's Astronomical Notebook," by David H. Keller, MD
"The Truth About The Shunned House Hardcover," by Robert Weinberg
"The Arkham House Story," by August Derleth
Special Fiction Section
"The Doom That Came to Sarnath," by H.P. Lovecraft
"Celephaïs," by H.P. Lovecraft
"Herbert West—Reanimator," by H.P. Lovecraft
The Lasting Influence of Lovecraft—Fiction inspired by the work by HPL
"Lovecraft: A Lasting Influence," by Tom Roberts
"Chant," by Robert Weinberg
"Sydney Taine vs. The Slime God," by Robert Weinberg
Art Focus
"About the Cover: Lovecraft In Britain," by Les Edwards
"The Art of H.P. Lovecraft," by Will Murray
"The Look of Lovecraft: A Randy Broecker Art Gallery," by Randy Broecker
The Street & Smith Comics
"Street & Smith in Four Colors," by Anthony Tollin
"The Street & Smith Comics," by Michelle Nolan
Film Focus
"From Pulp to the Silver Screen, 2015" by Ed Hulse
First book publication
Cover art by Les Daniels
Multiple Five and Four Star reviews on Amazon.
Fundamentals of Fiction Writing by Arthur Sullivant Hoffmann
The Voice of the Night by Hugh Pendexter The Garden of TNT by William J. Makin
You're viewing: Windy City Pulp Stories No.15 by Tom Roberts (editor) $15.95


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The Financial Express > Economy
Security deposit for new LPG connections raised
New Delhi, Jan 25 | Updated: Jan 26 2005, 05:30am hrs
The government has raised the security deposit paid by consumers for new LPG connection to Rs 850 per cylinder following higher prices paid by the distributors in procuring cylinders. Orders for increasing security deposit from Rs 650 per cylinder to Rs 850 per cylinder were issued last week, a top government official said.
It was lowered from Rs 900 to Rs 700 per cylinder in February 2002 based on cylinder procurement price of Rs 690-750 per cylinder. It was further reduced to Rs 650 per cylinder in March 2003, as procurement price fell to Rs 550 during mid-2003.
The decision to raise LPG cylinder deposit follows sharp rise in steel prices and some see it as a bold move, particularly in view of assembly elections in Bihar, Jharkhand and Haryana.
The official said the move follows a representation from the oil industry that security deposit be revised annually based on the average annual procurement price of a cylinder.


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Menendez, Graham, Murphy, Paul, Leahy, Young, Reed Announce 22 Joint Resolutions to Block Weapons Sales to Saudi Arabia and UAE without Congressional Approval
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Rand Paul (R-Ky.), Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.), Todd Young (R-Ind.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.) today announced they are introducing 22 separate Joint Resolutions of Disapproval to protect and reaffirm Congress' role of approving arms sales to foreign governments. Today's introductions come after Secretary of State Mike Pompeo declared an emergency on May 24 to waive the congressional review process for 22 separate arms sales to Saudi Arabia and the UAE – a total of $8.1 billion.
Arguing there is an increased threat from Iran, the Trump Administration invoked authorities under the Arms Export Control Act that, in certain circumstances, grant the President exceptional emergency authority to waive the statutorily-required congressional review period for arms sales. The manner in which the Administration has moved forward with these sales is unprecedented and is at odds with longstanding practice and cooperation between the Congress and the executive branch that results in the approval of billions of dollars of arms sales annually.
"The Trump Administration's effort to sell billions of U.S. weapons to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates is yet another example of an end-run around Congress and a disregard for human rights. We are taking this step today to show that we will not stand idly by and allow the President or the Secretary of State to further erode Congressional review and oversight of arm sales," said Senator Menendez. "Regrettably, Secretary Pompeo's abuse of this emergency authority has broken the arms sales process. The best thing the Secretary of State can do right now is withdraw his emergency certification, immediately submit these sales for the normal Congressional review and engage with Senators to address our concerns. Failing that, I am prepared to move forward with any and all options to nullify the licenses at issue for both Saudi Arabia and UAE and eliminate any ability for the Administration to bypass Congress in future arms sales."
"While I understand that Saudi Arabia is a strategic ally, the behavior of Mohammed bin Salman cannot be ignored. Now is not the time to do business as usual with Saudi Arabia," said Senator Graham. "I am also very concerned about the precedent these arms sales would set by having the Administration go around legitimate concerns of the Congress. I expect and look forward to strong bipartisan support for these resolutions of disapproval."
"Selling more bombs to the Saudis simply means that the famine and cholera outbreak in Yemen will get worse, Iran will get stronger, and Al Qaeda and ISIS will continue to flourish amidst the chaos of the civil war. Saudi Arabia treats us like the junior partner in this relationship, chopping up U.S. residents and torturing others, all the while demanding we remain silent and sell them more weapons. The U.S.-Saudi relationship needs to change, and it's clear that only Congress can make that happen," said Senator Murphy.
"For far too long, Saudi Arabia has acted with impunity. Whether creating humanitarian disasters, spreading radical Islam, or making journalists disappear, their flagrant behavior around the world is simply unacceptable. Congress must once again rise in a bipartisan fashion to send a loud message against this administration sending more arms unilaterally to the Kingdom," said Senator Paul.
"In a shameless attempt to avoid any input from Congress, the Secretary of State is signing off on the sale of $8 billion in weapons for half a dozen countries after declaring an 'emergency' caused by Iran," said Senator Leahy. "The law provides Congress 30 days to review the sale, but apparently that is too long for the Secretary, even though the bulk of these weapons will not be delivered for many months or years. This administration's credibility when it comes to arms sales, human rights, and the rule of law is in tatters. By introducing resolutions of disapproval, Republicans and Democrats are standing together in support of a process of consultation that has worked well for decades, regardless of which party controls the White House."
"Congress has an essential oversight role in the decision to sell weapons and we must ensure proper procedures are in place in any weapons transfer," said Senator Young. "In light of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Yemen, we have an obligation to ensure the adequate guardrails are in place and that weapons transfers to Saudi Arabia & the United Arab Emirates do not exacerbate the conflict. Iran remains the world's leading state sponsor of terror, but the current threats that have been briefed to members of Congress do not justify taking this dramatic step. The aircraft carrier, USS Abraham Lincoln, is deployed to the Gulf and I am confident that the members of our military could respond if a threat were to arise."
The Arms Export Control Act of 1976 provides the special procedures whereby lawmakers can introduce a privileged joint resolution of disapproval against a proposed arm sale. In the Senate, a resolution can be discharged from the Committee of jurisdiction, forcing a vote on the Senate floor.


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Aid funding of over R1bn already approved for businesses affected by riots – Patel
Two key development finance agencies under the Department of Commerce, Industry and Competition (dtic) have already approved 77 applications for more than one billion rand in financial aid for businesses affected by the riots and looting in KwaZulu-Natal and parts of Gauteng in July, Dtic Minister Ebrahim Patel confirmed Tuesday.
The funds, approved collectively through the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) and the National Empowerment Fund (NEF), are part of the dtic's broader aid package for businesses, announced by the minister after the riots.
Read: Mboweni and Mogajane announce R36.2bn in new financial support after riots
"The first approvals were made in August and have been growing steadily, reaching the R1 billion milestone on Monday," Patel said in a statement.
Ebrahim Patel, Minister of Commerce, Industry and Competition. Image: Moneyweb
"The July 2021 riots hurt growth, jobs and transformation and affected investor confidence in the national economy. To mitigate the damage caused, the dtic and its entities launched a special fund to support companies, "he said.
"These financing approvals help inject liquidity into companies, provide bridging financing where insurance claims are still being evaluated, and allow companies to begin trading fully …
"We have seen many small businesses rebuild their operations and businesses small and large have provided essential goods to affected communities," added Patel.
According to the dtic, while the more than R1 billion covers 77 companies that have approved applications, the funding covers 164 separate properties or sites that were affected by looting and destruction.
He noted that the funding approved so far would support 7,797 jobs in the two affected provinces.
So far, just over R512 million have been disbursed to the most affected companies.
Read: JP Morgan deposits R340m in SA SMEs
One such company that will benefit from financial support is Durban-based Kingsgate Clothing, which had four of its properties affected during the riots.
Forms of financing
IDC and NEF have noted that support to affected businesses comes in the form of interest-free term loans, bridge financing, and converting portions of selected services into grants.
"These dtic entities are busy evaluating a number of additional funding proposals and we will make further announcements on the progress made and on specific projects that have been approved," said Patel.
The dtic is working with various stakeholders to streamline and coordinate contributions to reconstruction.
Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Economic Development Departments;
The Ithala Development Finance Corporation; and
South African Association of Special Risks Insurance (Sasria).
The figure of more than 1 billion rand does not include insurance payments made so far by Sasria.
The dtic noted that it also continues to receive applications under the Critical Infrastructure Recovery Program aimed at assisting in reconstruction efforts and restoring production and employment in the Ezakheni, Isithebe and Madadeni industrial parks in KwaZulu-Natal.
He said IDC is also working alongside various stakeholders to support rebuilding efforts in the retail sector.
"Collaboration and exchange of information between [the IDC and NEF] It has also allowed us to identify other infrastructure rebuilding opportunities. "
Large and small companies
The dtic said its financial aid plans extend to formal and informal small businesses in rural and municipal areas, with funds available to six intermediary organizations, including Afrika Tikkun, the South African Cinnamon Producers Association and the South African National Stokvel Association. .
"These funds will be used to help uninsured small businesses in affected municipalities with working capital and inventory backup to restore their operations.
"The dtic, together with its sister entities and departments, remains committed to providing the necessary support to companies of all sizes, in urban, rural and municipal areas to restore what has been lost, preserve jobs and continue our efforts. to reindustrialize our economy. . "
Palesa Mofokeng is a Moneyweb intern.
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Sri Lanka's Supreme Court on Thursday unanimously ruled that the dissolution of Parliament by Maithripala Sirisena was "illegal", in a body blow to the embattled President, whose controversial decisions plunged the island nation into an unprecedented political turmoil.
A seven-member apex court bench said that the President cannot dissolve Parliament till it completes its 4 1/2 year term, triggering demand for the impeachment of Sirisena as well as ex-strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa.
"I make order that the November 9 Gazette sacking Parliament has no force or effect in law and declare its operation illegal," Chief Justice Nalin Perera said as he delivered the landmark judgement to a packed courtroom.
Fearing trouble, authorities beefed up the security around the Supreme Court and deployed the elite special task force.
United National Front (UNF) Deputy Leader Sajith Premadasa said that the ruling was unanimous by the seven judge bench.
The decision has laid to rest one of the many controversial moves which had complicated the political and constitutional crisis emanating from President Sirisena's decision on October 26 to sack the incumbent prime minister, Ranil Wickremesinghe, and install former president Mahinda Rajapaksa in his place.
Later, he also dissolved the 225-member Parliament and called for a snap election on January 5.
Sirisena, 67, sacked the Parliament when it appeared that Rajapaksa would not be able to muster the support of 113 MPs to gain a simple majority. Wickremesinghe on the other hand commands a majority in the House.
On Wednesday, Wickremesinghe proved his majority in Parliament, with 117 out of 225 lawmakers in Parliament voting to pass a confidence motion in his leadership. Rajapaksa has so far failed to prove his majority in Parliament.
There was no immediate comment from either Sirisena or Rajapaksa. Sirisena has previously said that he has always taken decisions in the best interest of the country and the people. He had also said that he will honour the court's decision.
"I look forward to the constitutional interpretation of the Supreme Court. Whatever it may be, I will take future political decisions accordingly, to the best interest of our motherland, not to the benefit of any person, group or party," the President tweeted on December 9.
Reacting to the apex court's ruling, sacked Prime Minister Wickremesinghe said, "We trust that the President will promptly respect the judgment of the courts.
"The legislature, judiciary, and the executive are equally important pillars of a democracy and the checks and balances that they provide are crucial to ensuring the sovereignty of its citizens," he tweeted.
Prime Minister Wickremesinghe was a "coup orchestrated by Sirisena and Rajapakse" and demanded a resolution in Parliament to bring them to justice.
As many as 13 petitions were filed in the Supreme Court against Sirisena's November 9 order sacking the Parliament, almost 20 months before its term was to end.
The apex court's decision has come as a serious blow to Sirisena after he had failed in his attempt to see Rajapaksa gaining majority in the assembly to oust Wickremesinghe. This would mean no snap parliamentary election could be called by Sirisena at least until February 2020.
The bench - extended to 7 from the original 3 when they issued the interim order - had marathon sessions over four days last week before reserving the order to this week.
The current parliament could still call for a snap poll with a resolution passed with two thirds majority.
Wickremesinghe had held his ground without leaving his official residence as he said his dismissal was illegal. He said the 19th amendment to the Constitution had made Sirisena powerless to remove a sitting prime minister.
Prior to the crisis, Wickremesinghe had the backing of 106 parliamentarians while Rajapaksa and Sirisena combine had the backing of 95 lawmakers.
However, Wickremesinghe's party claims that Sirisena will be left with no choice as he would be the man who will command the confidence in the House.


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Q: spring application does not start: SAXParseException: Document root element "beans", must match DOCTYPE root "null" I just deployed an application to tomcat version 6.0.32 and I get this error from spring. I don't think the xml is invalid

PAS: 2011-12-28 14:19:08,585 INFO [org.springframework.beans.factory.xml.XmlBeanDefinitionReader] -
  PAS: 2011-12-28 14:19:08,592 ERROR [org.springframework.web.context.ContextLoader] -
  org.springframework.beans.factory.BeanDefinitionStoreException: Line 15 in XML document from ServletContext resource [/WEB-INF/config/applicationContext.xml] is invalid; nested exception is org.xml.sax.SAXParseException: Document root element "beans", must match DOCTYPE root "null".
  org.xml.sax.SAXParseException: Document root element "beans", must match DOCTYPE root "null".
      at com.sun.org.apache.xerces.internal.util.ErrorHandlerWrapper.createSAXParseException(ErrorHandlerWrapper.java:195)
      at com.sun.org.apache.xerces.internal.util.ErrorHandlerWrapper.error(ErrorHandlerWrapper.java:131)
      at com.sun.org.apache.xerces.internal.impl.XMLErrorReporter.reportError(XMLErrorReporter.java:384)
      at com.sun.org.apache.xerces.internal.impl.XMLErrorReporter.reportError(XMLErrorReporter.java:318)
      at com.sun.org.apache.xerces.internal.impl.dtd.XMLDTDValidator.rootElementSpecified(XMLDTDValidator.java:1621)
      at com.sun.org.apache.xerces.internal.impl.dtd.XMLDTDValidator.handleStartElement(XMLDTDValidator.java:1900)
      at com.sun.org.apache.xerces.internal.impl.dtd.XMLDTDValidator.startElement(XMLDTDValidator.java:764)
      at com.sun.org.apache.xerces.internal.impl.XMLDocumentFragmentScannerImpl.scanStartElement(XMLDocumentFragmentScannerImpl.java:1363)
      at com.sun.org.apache.xerces.internal.impl.XMLDocumentScannerImpl$ContentDriver.scanRootElementHook(XMLDocumentScannerImpl.java:1318)
      at com.sun.org.apache.xerces.internal.impl.XMLDocumentFragmentScannerImpl$FragmentContentDriver.next(XMLDocumentFragmentScannerImpl.java:3104)
      at com.sun.org.apache.xerces.internal.impl.XMLDocumentScannerImpl$PrologDriver.next(XMLDocumentScannerImpl.java:922)
      at com.sun.org.apache.xerces.internal.impl.XMLDocumentScannerImpl.next(XMLDocumentScannerImpl.java:648)
      at com.sun.org.apache.xerces.internal.impl.XMLDocumentFragmentScannerImpl.scanDocument(XMLDocumentFragmentScannerImpl.java:511)
      at com.sun.org.apache.xerces.internal.parsers.XML11Configuration.parse(XML11Configuration.java:808)
      at com.sun.org.apache.xerces.internal.parsers.XML11Configuration.parse(XML11Configuration.java:737)
      at com.sun.org.apache.xerces.internal.parsers.XMLParser.parse(XMLParser.java:119)
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      at com.sun.org.apache.xerces.internal.jaxp.DocumentBuilderImpl.parse(DocumentBuilderImpl.java:284)
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      at org.springframework.beans.factory.support.AbstractBeanDefinitionReader.loadBeanDefinitions(AbstractBeanDefinitionReader.java:129)
      at org.springframework.beans.factory.support.AbstractBeanDefinitionReader.loadBeanDefinitions(AbstractBeanDefinitionReader.java:145)
      at org.springframework.web.context.support.XmlWebApplicationContext.loadBeanDefinitions(XmlWebApplicationContext.java:126)
      at org.springframework.web.context.support.XmlWebApplicationContext.loadBeanDefinitions(XmlWebApplicationContext.java:94)
      at org.springframework.context.support.AbstractRefreshableApplicationContext.refreshBeanFactory(AbstractRefreshableApplicationContext.java:89)
      at org.springframework.context.support.AbstractApplicationContext.refresh(AbstractApplicationContext.java:262)
      at org.springframework.web.context.support.AbstractRefreshableWebApplicationContext.refresh(AbstractRefreshableWebApplicationContext.java:139)
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      at org.springframework.web.context.ContextLoader.initWebApplicationContext(ContextLoader.java:190)
      at org.springframework.web.context.ContextLoaderListener.contextInitialized(ContextLoaderListener.java:49)
      at org.apache.catalina.core.StandardContext.listenerStart(StandardContext.java:4205)
      at org.apache.catalina.core.StandardContext.start(StandardContext.java:4704)
      at org.apache.catalina.core.ContainerBase.addChildInternal(ContainerBase.java:799)
      at org.apache.catalina.core.ContainerBase.addChild(ContainerBase.java:779)
      at org.apache.catalina.core.StandardHost.addChild(StandardHost.java:601)
      at org.apache.catalina.startup.HostConfig.deployWAR(HostConfig.java:943)
      at org.apache.catalina.startup.HostConfig.deployWARs(HostConfig.java:778)
      at org.apache.catalina.startup.HostConfig.deployApps(HostConfig.java:504)
      at org.apache.catalina.startup.HostConfig.start(HostConfig.java:1315)
      at org.apache.catalina.startup.HostConfig.lifecycleEvent(HostConfig.java:324)
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      at org.apache.catalina.core.StandardHost.start(StandardHost.java:840)
      at org.apache.catalina.core.ContainerBase.start(ContainerBase.java:1053)
      at org.apache.catalina.core.StandardEngine.start(StandardEngine.java:463)
      at org.apache.catalina.core.StandardService.start(StandardService.java:525)
      at org.apache.catalina.core.StandardServer.start(StandardServer.java:754)
      at org.apache.catalina.startup.Catalina.start(Catalina.java:595)
      at sun.reflect.NativeMethodAccessorImpl.invoke0(Native Method)
      at sun.reflect.NativeMethodAccessorImpl.invoke(NativeMethodAccessorImpl.java:39)
      at sun.reflect.DelegatingMethodAccessorImpl.invoke(DelegatingMethodAccessorImpl.java:25)
      at java.lang.reflect.Method.invoke(Method.java:597)
      at org.apache.catalina.startup.Bootstrap.start(Bootstrap.java:289)
      at org.apache.catalina.startup.Bootstrap.main(Bootstrap.java:414)

XMl is:

<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?>

<beans xmlns="http://www.springframework.org/schema/beans"
  xmlns:xsi="http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema-instance" xmlns:p="http://www.springframework.org/schema/p"
  xmlns:context="http://www.springframework.org/schema/context"
  xmlns:util="http://www.springframework.org/schema/util"   xmlns:security="http://www.springframework.org/schema/security"

  xsi:schemaLocation="http://www.springframework.org/schema/beans
       http://www.springframework.org/schema/beans/spring-beans-2.5.xsd
       http://www.springframework.org/schema/context
       http://www.springframework.org/schema/context/spring-context-2.5.xsd
       http://www.springframework.org/schema/util
       http://www.springframework.org/schema/util/spring-util-2.5.xsd
       http://www.springframework.org/schema/security
       http://www.springframework.org/schema/security/spring-security-2.5.xsd">

<context:property-placeholder  location="WEB-INF/passport.properties, WEB-INF/config/server.properties"/>
<util:properties id="props" location="WEB-INF/passport.properties" />

<context:component-scan base-package="util" />

<bean id="passportConfig" class="util.PassportBaseConfig"
    p:configLocation="WEB-INF/" autowire="no" factory-method="getInstance"
    init-method="init" p:userDAO-ref="passportUserDao" p:teamDAO-ref="passportTeamDao"
    p:serverId="${serverId}">
    <constructor-arg ref="props" />

</bean>

A: From this message
org.xml.sax.SAXParseException: Document root element "beans", must match DOCTYPE root "null".

it seems to me like your DTD is incorrect and there is some version mismatch. You are using a new version in the DTD and supplying older jars.

A: Don't use a DOC type in your spring config file.
Instead start your spring config file like this:
<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?>
<beans xmlns="http://www.springframework.org/schema/beans"
       xmlns:xsi="http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema-instance"
       xsi:schemaLocation="http://www.springframework.org/schema/beans
       http://www.springframework.org/schema/beans/spring-beans-3.0.xsd">

Also, be sure to close the beans tag at the end of the config file.
</beans>

Here is a link to the IOC Container Info in the spring 3.1 reference

A: Take a look at this example: Creating a Spring Application
Notice the difference between your XML and a proper applicationContext.xml. You're missing all references to the namespace.

A: I have faced this error:

Exception in thread "main"
  org.springframework.beans.factory.BeanDefinitionStoreException: Line
  ... in XML document from class path resource [applicationContext.xml]
  is invalid; nested exception is org.xml.sax.SAXParseException;
  lineNumber: ...; columnNumber: ...; Document root element "beans",
  must match DOCTYPE root "null". org.xml.sax.SAXParseException;
  Document root element "beans", must match DOCTYPE root "null".

I have resolved it by adding:
xmlns:context="http://www.springframework.org/schema/context"

in applicationContext.xml file & adding correct version of dependencies, like in my case i have used 3.2.3.RELEASE for spring-context-support dependency.
<dependency>
    <groupId>org.springframework</groupId>
    <artifactId>spring-context-support</artifactId>
    <version>**3.2.3.RELEASE**</version>
</dependency>


text:
THE HISTORY OF WIMBLEDON FOOTBALL CLUB
Wanted Info
Wimbledon's second season in Athenian competition was to produce a close fight between them and St. Albans for the title. St. Albans just had the edge at the finish, with Wimbledon second, two points adrift, but they again triumphed in the Wednesday League. There was more success on the Cup front. In the Amateur Cup, Dulwich were overcome 2-1 and Ilford 3-2.
Eight thousand spectators turned out to see the end of Cardiff Corinthians by the only goal, but the run finally came to an end by the same 1-0 scoreline at Leytonstone, decided only by a last minute penalty. Wimbledon, however, were to go all the way in the Surrey Senior Cup competition, facing Metrogas in the final at Crystal Palace. Honours finished even at one goal apiece and the clubs shared the trophy.
Wimbledon were back on their European travels as well, this time visiting Belgium. They were to win the Bruges Tournament, with a win over fellow tourists, Orrell FC from Liverpool 3-0, followed by a 3-2 triumph against tournament favourites, Le Cercle Sportif.
The reserves were eighth in the Southern Suburban League, while Wimbledon's lineup for their final Athenian game of the season read: A. Bennett, A. Austin, H. Allwright, J. Macey, E. Goodens, W. Keeble, J. McEwen, G. Armitage, W. Cotton, G. Cannon and R. Green. That W. Cotton was Billy Cotton the Bandleader.
Wimbledon, no strangers to controversy already, were caught up in yet more during that season. The Isthmian League, big rivals of their Athenian counterparts, announced they were going to increase their membership from 12 to 14 clubs. Both Wimbledon and Wycombe Wanderers were approached and the Dons plan to leave the Athenian League at the end of the 1920-21 season leaked out.
The Athenian League management committee were furious. One senior member announced that if Wimbledon went ahead with their move, then the entire Athenian League committee would sever their links with football altogether. In the end, though, good sense prevailed. Wimbledon did leave the League at the end of the season, while the Athenian League committee members were persuaded to stay on.
It was still something of a gamble for the Dons, though. The decision to increase the size of the Isthmian League was still to be voted on at the League's annual meeting. If the vote had gone the other way, then both Wimbledon and Wycombe Wanderers would have been out in the cold, with no League football of any sort.
It did, however, go in their favour, opening yet another new chapter in the club's history. But as one new era was dawning, another was ending, with the sad death of their president, Lt. General Kent. A veteran of the Crimean War, he was the oldest British General in the Army. Joseph Hood, MP, took his place as president.
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Digivalet is a tablet-based convergence platform for luxury hotels. The system enables guests to control their room, access videos, order services, do an express checkout. The guest can do all this and many things more from an iPad provided by the hotel.
Since the system is interconnected to the hotel's existing Property Management, Point of Sales and Room Management Systems, guests have access to their bill in real time and can check out without spending time at the front desk. The F&B department can push offers to guests through the tablet and any order from the guest will be automatically added to their account.
Digivalet also offers top quality entertainment and connects with cable TV, full HD Video on Demand and music. The Apple interface transforms the once tiresome experience of accessing content to a pleasant one, as the guest can search for movies by actors, read the synopsis and view the trailer before launching the video on its TV.
Hotel owners can increase revenues per room, streamline their operations and improve their green initiatives while proving to their guests that they understand their lifestyle and their needs for greater convenience. As an elegant convergence platform, Digivalet is also a great personalisation tool, adapting to the users and enabling hotels to surprise their returning guests with special services.


Journey through dream-like forest scenes, and encounter real and fabulous creatures in this gorgeous new coloring book by Daisy Fletcher, creator of Birdtopia. Beginning in a woodland world of otters, badgers, foxes, and deer, the pages gradually transport you deeper into a flower forest, a magical environment populated with rare and mythical animals such as caracals, squirrel monkeys, muntjacs, and ibex. Color your way through exotic and wonderful plants – Candy Cane Sorrel, Passion Flowers, and giant Cacti – and you may even discover a unicorn.
Into the Wild Coloring Book is the follow up to the very popular, Birdtopia Coloring Bookby Daisy Fletcher. Although I love Daisy's illustrations, I will say that I never purchased Birdtopia because all those feathers …just frightened me! Cute animals though, that's a different story, so I was excited for Into the Wild Colouring Book and, of course, hoped for bunny rabbits!
The cover of Into the Wild has a similar feel to Birdtopia. It is larger than A4 sized and quite weighty.
On the front cover beautiful and delicately drawn illustrations in color and black and white have been printed on a creamy, lemon background. This cover art is indicative of the material inside with the line art all printed against the creamy lemon background. A gold foil title gives the book an elegant touch.
On the back cover the same lemon, cream background has been used. You will notice that there is a lot of black on the illustration with a distressed feel to it. This also is indicative of some of the art inside. The cover is matt and should you purchase the book you may want to cover it in plastic. After just a few days in my coloring cave the book looks like it has been rolling in the wild earth. This is surprising to me considering how OCD I am about keeping my surfaces clean.
The cover has fold out flaps and a lovely deep green inner cover. The back cover features line art that you could color in if you wished.
Into the Wild Coloring Book measures approximately 9.4 in x 12.2 in.
A plain text title page commences the book with dedication and a little bunny on the reverse.
At the rear of the book is a 6 page visual thumbnail index. Any of these preceding pages would be a great spot to test out your mediums.
Illustrations have been printed on both sides of the medium quality paper. All of the pages feature a lemon/cream background.
All of the art work haws been orientated portrait style.
There are 34 double page scenes in the book. Line art does run to the spine of the book and it is a little stiff at the moment to color in this area. Try as I might, I am far too much of a weakling to crack this spine and will have to transfer it over to hubby to get it a push to relax it.
The style in Into the Wild coloring books is different from her previous work with a distressed black background used on many images in the book. It has taken me a little while, but the distressed background effect has grown on me and it reminds me a little of Ticket to Dreams. It can be a bit divisive though because it is such a contrast to her elegantly drawn work printed on the colored background.
Daisy Fletcher has a delicate hand when illustrating animals. Her line art is crisp, clean and elegant. Details are added in a finer line giving texture and dimension to whatever element she is drawing including the lovely flowers which feature heavily in this book.
You will find a variety of animals to color in this book. Most of the animals feature on a page with flowers or leaves and are generally the focal point. If you love coloring flowers you will appreciate the many varieties that have been included in this coloring book and the artistic pointillism used to indicate shading.
A gorgeous 4 page fold out poster is at the end of the book which includes a gorgeous unicorn.


text:
Midday, Out-of-The-Water Activities To Do With Kids In The Myrtle Beach Area
Thursday, June 20, 2019 9:00 AM By Julie Ellis
So, the kids have spent two days on the beach. They're having an amazing time, but by day three you're thinking it would be a great idea to get them out of the mid-day sun. Or maybe it's raining, and the kids are raring to go, but the beach is out! What are you going to do?
I've got great news for you! The Myrtle Beach area has an amazing variety of daytime mid-day activities that you will love just as much as the kids will. Rain or shine, you'll never be disappointed in the entertainment options along the Grand Strand.
1313 Celebrity Circle Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
WonderWorks, an indoor amusement park for the mind, has 100 interactive exhibits for all ages. Experience 84mph hurricane force winds, lie on a bed of nails, land, design and ride a virtual roller coaster, climb an indoor ropes course, play a game of laser-tag, plus more! At Broadway at the Beach.
Dave & Buster's is OPEN at Broadway at the Beach! The only place to Eat, Drink, Play and Watch Sports in Myrtle Beach. Come in today and check our new innovative menu with food and drinks you won't believe, play all the newest games and catch all your favorite teams in the Sports Lounge!
Hollywood Wax Museum Entertainment Center - Myrtle Beach
1808 21st Avenue North Ext. Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
Get the best value in Myrtle Beach with 3 attractions for 1 ticket price: Hollywood Wax Museum, Hannah's Maze of Mirrors & Outbreak-Dread the Undead! Fun seekers of all ages will enjoy fun photo ops with movie stars & pop culture legends, a gallant mirror maze adventure to rescue Princess Hannah & a colossal zombie scare where you can save the world from a viral outbreak. Open 365 days at 9 a.m.
Ripley's 5D Moving Theater
917 North Ocean Blvd. Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
It's going to be a bumpy ride. Better strap on your seat belts for this seriously realistic 5D Moving Theater experience. Our state-of-the-art theater with digital effects will make you feel like you're in the movie! Bump, dip, and shake your way through our indoor adventure ride.
Ripley's Aquarium
Ripley's 1.4 million-gallon world-class aquarium features twelve-foot sharks, a beautiful 300-pound sea turtle and over 10,000 exotic sea creatures. Get up close and personal with our hands-on animal interaction, hourly dive shows and glide underwater along our 330-foot moving path. Visit our fun-filled gift shop and ask about our options for a banquet or Marine Science class for your group visit.
Ripley's Believe It Or Not Odditorium
Believe It or Not! Odditorium showcases the bizarre collection of Robert Ripley throughout his lifetime of worldly adventures. Since 1918, Ripley's tradition of scouring the globe for the world's most unbelievable exhibits has been carried on. A genuine human shrunken head, the world's tallest man, and a 6-legged pig only scratches the surface of what's behind our doors. Come & explore the odd!
Ripley's Haunted Adventure Laser Strike
ENTER IF YOU DARE… Imagine your adrenaline pumping, your imagination stirring as you make your way through the flesh-eating monsters that await you at Ripley's NEW Haunted Live Action Adventure–LASER STRIKE! Strike down the creatures of the night with your very own laser gun rifle in our 10,000 sq. feet of action-packed combat! Beware, ages 8 and up.
Ripley's Marvelous Mirror Maze
Hey! Who's that good-looking person in the mirror? That's you! You'll come face-to-face with your cute mug over and over as you attempt to find your way out of our enchanting labyrinth of mirrors! Embellished with LED lights and infinity mirrors, it's time to challenge your perception and sense of direction. Don't worry, we send search parties every half hour.
Sky Zone Myrtle Beach
2200 North Oak Street Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
Sky Zone (formerly Rockin' Jump) is Myrtle Beach's ultimate trampoline park providing fun for kids and adults of all ages. We offer fitness and competition disguised as fun!
Myrtle Beach Room Escape
316 9th Ave N., Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
Escape rooms are fun, real-life adventure games that create memories and foster teamwork with friends, families, corporations, and events. The mission is to "escape" from a room by solving puzzles, manipulating objects, and searching for hidden clues along the way. Must solve within 60 minutes.
The Simpsons in 4D
This ticketed attraction includes a fully themed lobby and theater experience. Guests join Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa and the youngest Simpsons, Maggie in a new 4D Experience® adventure. Purchase tickets at the box office. You can also visit The Simpsons Kwik-E-Mart at Broadway at the Beach and indulge in Buzz Cola, Heat-Lamp Hot Dogs, Lard Lad Donuts and the show-inspired Squishee flavors, as well as unique The Simpsons merchandise.
EdVenture Children's Museum
3061 Howard Avenue, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
Come "Touch, Explore, and Play…" while learning through interactive exhibits and programs. Join the thousands of visitors including schools, local residents and tourists who enjoy the museum every year.
Franklin G. Burroughs - Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum
3100 South Ocean Blvd. Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
With 11 galleries that change throughout the year, Myrtle Beach's only art museum offers exhibitions featuring paintings, textiles, sculpture, photography, video, ceramics, assemblage, collage and more. A visit to the Art Museum's exhibitions can be enhanced by its lively programming, including artist receptions, tours, lectures, workshops and classes for both adults and children. FREE admission.
805 Main Street Conway, SC 29526
A collection related to the prehistory, natural history, history and culture of Horry County. Enjoy interesting exhibits, a huge fish tank, and educational programs.
Catching a summer blockbuster is another great way to pass a rainy afternoon, and movie theaters can be found at The Market Common, Broadway at the Beach, Coastal Grand Mall, and Myrtle Beach Mall.
From bowling to arcades to laser tag, there are plenty of spots to keep entire families indoors and busy on a rainy day. A few of our favorites are 810 Billiards and Bowling, Fun Plaza Arcade in Myrtle Beach, Garden City Pavilion Arcade and Backstage Mirror Maze and Backstage Escape Games in Myrtle Beach.
From malls and outlet stores to specialty shops and boutiques, there are plenty of great places to find the perfect souvenir or new outfit. Coastal Grand Mall, Myrtle Beach Mall, The Market Common, and Tanger Outlets are just a few of the many locations worth checking out.
Categories: Amusements + Attractions, Rainy Day Activities, Great For Kids
Julie Ellis


Cute set (17 pieces) of our most popular Ema Jane Boutique Grosgrain Bows (3.5 inches wide by 1 inch tall) glued securely to soft stretchy headbands.
Each Bow is glued securely to a soft cotton headband.
Made to fit newborn, baby, toddler, children, and stretch to some youth.


Twenty-four hours in Paris. That's all I got.
Granted, I know that I will be back in a few months but those 24 hours meant a lot to me.
My good friend from home is studying in Paris, and I hadn't seen her in person in such a long time. When she messaged me that Harry Styles, a man and musician we both admired from a young age, was having a concert in Paris but she didn't have anyone to go with, I immediately pulled up Skyscanner.
It was a bit tricky, time-wise. The day of the concert, I had class in the morning, then took a train to Manchester airport. I ran through the terminals and hopped on my flight. I landed in Charles de Gaulle airport in Paris, impatiently tapped my foot as I waited in line at border control, checking my watch. I ran through the airport again – I had to change my shoes to do this properly – and through a train station. The train was delayed and packed like a container of sardines, and when it eventually arrived at my stop I scrambled off.
There she was, looking stylish in a black bodysuit with floral details, black pants and boots and sunglasses, hair braided down the sides. I grinned partly because I had made it, partly because I hadn't seen her in ages, partly because we were going to see Harry Styles, and partly because I could just tell she was thriving in France.
For those of you who grew up One Direction-less or could care less about Harry Styles, let me just say this: listen to his solo album and I think it will change your mind. For those of you who are reading this and thinking "Ugh so lucky, I love him:" I am totally with you here, it was fantastic from start to finish. Even waiting in the arena was fun. I don't even speak French, but I felt at one with the audience and it was such an experience.
I don't get to go to concerts very often, let alone in a different country. It was a different kind of experience, as I often didn't understand what was being said around me. Harry Styles also spoke a bit of French to the audience and I screamed merely because of who was saying it. The most iconic part of the concert, besides the amazing music, vocals, lights and dancing, was that for some reason Harry Styles' favorite word in French is "pamplemousse." My friend told me that it means grapefruit, and was completely random. However, this world-famous musician in his mid-twenties found it so funny that he made the entire arena scream it as loud as possible. Was I pronouncing it wrong? Yes. Did I care? No.
Something strange, standing on the floor of an arena, surrounded by lights and screaming and a language you cannot speak, and all joining in to scream "GRAPEFRUIT" simply because we all love this artist and he thought it was funny. A very weird memory, but one that will stick with me nonetheless as a beacon of the amazing experience.
Afterwards, we went back to my friend's apartment to sleep for a few hours before I had to repeat in reverse my slightly hectic travel plans. After all, I had homework to get done that next evening!
So yes, only twenty-four hours in Paris. It was spent with a great friend, a great star and an arena full of French girls. Time well spent, in my opinion – plus I got to see the Eiffel Tower, as it was visible from my friend's bedroom. Score! See you later Paris, and for longer next time – I promise. Who knows – maybe see I'll you later too, Harry.