Modern hyperspectral imaging sensor technology provides detailed spectral and spatial information that enables precise analysis of land cover usage. From a research point of view, traditional widely used statistical models are often limited in the sense that they do not incorporate some of the useful angle information contained in the feature vectors, and hence alternative modeling methods are required. In the study to be presented, the use of cosine angle information and its embedding onto a spherical manifold is investigated. The transformation of hyperspectral images onto a unit hyperspherical manifold is achieved by using the recently proposed spherical local embeddings approach. Spherical local embeddings is a method that computes high-dimensional local neighborhood preserving coordinates of data on constant curvature manifolds. We further develop a novel Kent mixture model for unsupervised classification of embedded cosine pixel coordinates. A Kent distribution is one of the natural models for multivariate data on a spherical manifold. Parameters for the model are estimated using the Expectation-Maximization procedure. The mixture model is applied to two different Airborne Visible/Infrared Imaging Spectrometer (AVIRIS) datasets that were acquired from the Tippecanoe County in Indiana. The results obtained present insights on cosine pixel coordinates and also serve as a motivation for further development of new models to analyze hyperspectral images in spherical manifolds.


text:
Taylor Swift Won't Submit Re-Recorded Version Of 'Fearless' For Grammy Consideration
Taylor Swift has decided not to submit the re-recorded version of her Fearless album for Grammy awards consideration in 2022.
Fearless (Taylor's Version) will also not be submitted for CMA Awards consideration.
"After careful consideration, Taylor Swift will not be submitting Fearless (Taylor's Version) in any category at this year's upcoming Grammy and CMA Awards," according to Republic Records.
"Fearless has already won four Grammys including album of the year, as well as the CMA Award for album of the year in 2009/2010 and remains the most awarded country album of all time," her current record label added.
Republic Records said that the 31-year-old recording artist's 2020 album, Evermore, will be sent to the Grammys for consideration.
Released in 2008, Fearless won two awards at the Grammys – album of the year and best country album. Taylor re-recorded the album in 2021.
(Photo: Beth Garrabrant)
← Jason Aldean Earns 23rd No. 1 On Billboard's Country Airplay Chart With 'Blame It On You'
Luke Combs' Previously Unreleased 'South On Ya' Featured In SEC Hype Video →

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


Lamictal is used to treat epileptic seizures in adults and children. It has also been used to delay mood episodes in adults with bipolar disorder. It is classified as an anti-epileptic and anticonvulsant. Lamictal is sold and manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline and was first approved by the FDA in 1994. Between 1994 and 2009, there were 46 million Lamictal prescriptions dispensed to patients.
Lamictal has been linked to suicidal thoughts, birth defects and meningitis.
In 2006, the FDA sent a warning to healthcare providers stating that a link had been discovered between birth defects and the use of Lamictal. When looking at records in the North American Antiepileptic Drug Pregnancy Registry (NAAED), it was found that 564 women who took Lamictal during their first trimester had children with oral clefts and other defects. This was found more common in women who were taking a higher dose of the drug. Lamictal is classified as a Category C drug for pregnancy, meaning that some birth defects appeared when the drug was tested on animals.
Use of Lamictal has also been linked to the development of aseptic meningitis—a form of the disease not caused by a bacterial infection. In recorded instances of meningitis caused by the use of Lamictal, symptoms occurred within 42 days of beginning the treatment. It was also found that most cases resolved themselves after Lamictal was discontinued.
Lamictal has also been linked to suicidal thoughts and behaviors. In 2008, the FDA required manufacturers of all antiepileptic drugs to add a warning about this side effect. In one study, the rate of suicidal thoughts was discovered to double between patients taking the drug, and patients on a placebo.


text:
package net.sabamiso.android.swipescancamera;

import java.io.File;
import java.text.SimpleDateFormat;
import java.util.Date;

import org.opencv.android.Utils;
import org.opencv.core.CvType;
import org.opencv.core.Mat;
import org.opencv.core.Scalar;
import org.opencv.imgcodecs.Imgcodecs;
import org.opencv.imgproc.Imgproc;

import android.annotation.SuppressLint;
import android.content.Context;
import android.graphics.Bitmap;
import android.graphics.Canvas;
import android.graphics.Paint;
import android.graphics.Rect;
import android.media.MediaScannerConnection;
import android.os.Environment;
import android.os.Handler;
import android.view.MotionEvent;
import android.view.View;
import android.widget.Toast;

public class SlitScanView extends View {
	Mat capture_img;
	Mat canvas;
	Bitmap bitmap;
	Paint paint;
	Handler handler = new Handler();

	public SlitScanView(Context context, int canvas_w, int canvas_h) {
		super(context);
		canvas = new Mat(canvas_h, canvas_w, CvType.CV_8UC3);
		bitmap = Bitmap.createBitmap(canvas_w, canvas_h,
				Bitmap.Config.ARGB_8888);

		paint = new Paint();
		paint.setFilterBitmap(true);

		clear();
	}

	public synchronized void clear() {
		canvas.setTo(new Scalar(0, 0, 0));
		updateImage();
		Toast.makeText(getContext(), "clear...",  Toast.LENGTH_SHORT).show();
	}

	public synchronized void save() {
		// create SwipeScanCamera directory
		File pictures_path = Environment.getExternalStoragePublicDirectory(Environment.DIRECTORY_PICTURES);
		File save_dir = new File(pictures_path.getAbsolutePath() + "/SwipeScanCamera");
		save_dir.mkdir();

		//
		SimpleDateFormat sdf = new SimpleDateFormat("'SSC_'yyyyMMdd'_'HHmmss'.jpg'");
		String filename = sdf.format(new Date());
		String save_path = save_dir.toString() + File.separator + filename;

		// save
		Mat bgr_img = new Mat();
		Imgproc.cvtColor(canvas, bgr_img, Imgproc.COLOR_RGB2BGR);
		Imgcodecs.imwrite(save_path, bgr_img);

		// update mediascanner
		scanFile(save_path);

		// show message
		Toast.makeText(getContext(), "save to " + save_path + " ...",  Toast.LENGTH_LONG).show();
	}

	private void scanFile(String path) {
		try {
			File f = new File(path);
			MediaScannerConnection.scanFile(getContext(),
					new String[] { f.getAbsolutePath() }, null, null);
		}
		catch(Exception e) {
		}
	}

	public synchronized void setImage(Mat image) {
		capture_img = image;
	}

	private void updateImage() {
		// org.opencv.core.Mat -> android.graphics.Bitmap
		Utils.matToBitmap(canvas, bitmap);

		// update screen image (call onDraw())
		handler.post(new Runnable() {
			@Override
			public void run() {
				invalidate();
			}
		});
	}

	@SuppressLint("DrawAllocation")
	@Override
	protected void onDraw(Canvas canvas) {
		Rect rect = new Rect(0, 0, getWidth(), getHeight());
		canvas.drawBitmap(bitmap, null, rect, paint);
	}

	boolean is_pressed = false;
	float old_x;
	org.opencv.core.Point old_p = new org.opencv.core.Point();

	@SuppressLint("ClickableViewAccessibility")
	@Override
	public boolean onTouchEvent(MotionEvent evt) {
		int action = evt.getAction() & MotionEvent.ACTION_MASK;

		switch (action) {
		case MotionEvent.ACTION_DOWN:
			is_pressed = true;
			old_p.x = evt.getX();
			old_p.y = evt.getY();
			break;
		case MotionEvent.ACTION_MOVE:
			float diff_x = (float) (evt.getX() - old_p.x);
			if (is_pressed && diff_x != 0) {
				processSlitScan(evt.getX(), old_p.x);
				old_p.x = evt.getX();
				old_p.y = evt.getY();
			}
			break;
		case MotionEvent.ACTION_UP:
			is_pressed = false;
			break;
		}
		return true;
	}

	private synchronized void processSlitScan(float screen_x0, double screen_x1) {

		// screen -> image
		int image_x0 = (int) (screen_x0 / getWidth() * canvas.cols());
		int image_x1 = (int) (screen_x1 / getWidth() * canvas.cols());

		// range check
		if (image_x0 == image_x1)
			return;

		if (image_x0 > image_x1) {
			int tmp = image_x1;
			image_x1 = image_x0;
			image_x0 = tmp;
		}
		if (image_x0 < 0) image_x0 = 0;
		if (image_x1 < 1) image_x1 = 1;
		if (canvas.cols() - 2 < image_x0) image_x0 = canvas.cols() - 2;
		if (canvas.cols() - 1 < image_x1) image_x1 = canvas.cols() - 1;

		// create slit ROI
		org.opencv.core.Rect roi = new org.opencv.core.Rect();
		roi.x = image_x0;
		roi.y = 0;
		roi.width = image_x1 - image_x0;
		roi.height = canvas.rows();

		// copy slit scan image using the ROI.
		new Mat(capture_img, roi).copyTo(new Mat(canvas, roi));

		updateImage();
	}

}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
ColonyBorn
August 29, 2019 Chad	Leave a comment
The year is 3400 and human civilization has spread to its second home and first colony. Peace and prosperity have generally prevailed though there has been some conflict between the two factions leading colony construction and terraformation. The colony structure where we live and work consists of a gigantic network of underground corridors which are navigated via spaceship-like vehicles. Rifts between the factions left areas of the colony low on resources and led to much hardship. Most colony sectors were prepared for this and hoarded resources to make it through rifts. All colony sectors, however, were not prepared for the alien armada that would sever the transport of the vital Earth-based resources needed by the colony. Why did they not land on Earth or the Colony immediately? We could only guess that they did not have the landing craft needed for an invasion.
Without needed resources, sectors of the colony could not be maintained. The citizens in these sectors had to be evacuated to less resource-intensive sectors. This process took two years and all the while, the aliens seemed to do nothing.
In the third year after the alien arrival, though, sensors in the vacated sectors started to register movement and atmospheric changes. Maybe they were just waiting for us to invite them in.
ColonyBorn is a 3D spaceship flight game for android phones that is in development. Fly through corridors and fight against the invasion. There will be single player and multiplayer. While in development, an early release version will be updated and available for download here. Thank you for coming by and we look forward to bringing you an action packed gaming adventure.
Previous PostTutorial Video
A 3D Space Ship FPS for Android
More information about the game


text:
Nebulas Incentive Program Expands with Super Contributors
Reading Time: 3 minutes by Guest Post on June 13, 2018 Press Releases
Nebulas, a new-generation blockchain ecosystem, is broadening its Incentive Program by introducing Super Contributor incentives. The Nebulas Incentive Program rewards developers and referrers who bring quality decentralized applications to the Nebulas blockchain. With Super Contributors, community members will now be able to win NAS rewards simply for inviting more people to join the Nebulas ecosystem. Super Contributors will share a 10,000 NAS reward, and will also be able to vote on the best Dapps each week in the Nebulas Incentive Program.
The Nebulas Incentive Program, which rewards developers and referrers who bring high-quality decentralized apps (Dapps) to the Nebulas blockchain, is being upgraded. On June 10, 2018 (UTC+8), the Program will introduce Super Contributors, a new referral program that rewards those who invite new users to the Nebulas ecosystem. This will add both a new method to earn NAS rewards, and voting rights for the community, within the Nebulas Incentive Program.
Super Contributor incentives are a new referral plan within the Nebulas Incentive Program. Currently, The Nebulas Program is comprised of two reward streams: Developer and Referral rewards. Developer rewards are distributed to those who build the best Dapps on Nebulas. Referral rewards, meanwhile, are distributed to those who convert the greatest number of developers to build Dapps on the Nebulas (an invited developer that registers on Nebulas but does not build a dapp is not counted as a successful referral).
With Super Contributors, Nebulas will reward those people and organizations that invite any users, including developers and non-developers, to the Nebulas ecosystem. The top-20 accounts that invite the most people to sign up to Nebulas will become Super Contributors. They will share a weekly 10,000 NAS prize amongst them, and also have the chance to decide the Champions, Weekly Developer Champions, second- and third-prize receiver, by voting for the best three Dapps each week.
This Super Contributor upgrade introduces the process of "proof of participation" in the Nebulas ecosystem, and is an early experiment for implementing the Proof of Devotion consensus protocol on Nebulas blockchain. Furthermore, involving Super Contributors in the decision-making process for determining the best Dapps in Nebulas Incentive Program is a step towards achieving a fully autonomous blockchain ecosystem run by the community.
The Super Contributor mechanism will take effect on June 10th, 2018, and run for a four-week period until July 8, 2018. To win a chance to become a Super Contributor, users need only register on the Nebulas Incentive Program website (incentive.nebulas.io) and obtain a unique invitation, and then invite others to register on Nebulas using this code. All community members, industry media, influencers, exchanges, and other groups and individuals, are encouraged to participate.
The Nebulas Chain (NAS) is a new generation of public blockchain and dedicated to building a collaborative ecosystem with sustainable upgrading, and its mainnet was launched on March 30th, 2018. Nebulas features an original blockchain value discovery system, forward-looking incentive and consensus mechanisms, and the ability to avoid hard forks through self-evolution.
The main Nebulas blockchain network launched on March 30th, and this was followed by the debut of the Nebulas Incentive Program at the beginning of May. Since then, nearly 3,000 Dapps have been deployed on Nebulas, surpassing the number of Dapps on Ethereum.
For more details please visit: nebulas.io
This is a paid press release. BTCManager does not endorse and is not responsible for or liable for any content, accuracy, quality, advertising, products or other materials on this page. Readers should do their own research before taking any actions related to the company. BTCManager is not responsible, directly or indirectly, for any damage or loss caused or alleged to be caused by or in connection with the use of or reliance on any content, goods or services mentioned in the press release.
blockchain Dapps ecosystem Nebulas press release


text:
A Look at the Silver/Gold Ratio, Inflation/Deflation and the Yield Curve
Commodities / Gold and Silver 2017 May 12, 2017 - 03:43 PM GMT
By: Gary_Tanashian
An email from a reader (of the eLetter, I think) calling me out on trying to make too many correlations in a dysfunctional market (I think that was his bottom line point, and he's got a good point) got me thinking about the Silver/Gold ratio and some pretty interesting post-2011 dysfunction (so it seems) in the markets.
Markets that made sense in certain ways prior to 2011 no longer make sense in the same ways. For instance, the S&P 500 used to be correlated to the Silver/Gold ratio, which itself was positively correlated to inflation and/or inflationary economic growth. Gold also liked for silver to be leading it, not the other way around.
But in 2011 a Goldilocks environment was rammed home by Ben Bernanke's decree (in September of that year) that the Fed would "sanitize" (his word for manipulate, coerce and completely screw up bond market signals that had been tried and true) inflation and its indicator signaling right out of the picture. The Fed's 'Operation Twist' buying of long-term Treasury bonds and selling of short-term Treasury bonds forced a yield curve that had been out of control to the upside, downward. Brilliant!
In 2017 it's the gift that keeps on giving, from dear old Ben as the resultant yield curve downtrend has been relentless and it has been stock bulls that have benefited despite the 2015 disturbance that temporarily shook a lot of people out of stocks. To be sure, Goldilocks has not only been Fed-induced, but also has benefited from global deflationary forces that now appear to be resolving toward an inflation phase in many global regions (here we again note Kevin Muir's sound thought process about Europe potentially doing the US monetary policy thing).
Gold and silver, followed by commodities had once been obvious choices for inflationary phases, but now with the Fed out of tricks in its bag (leaving the heavy lifting to the Trump administration's fiscal/reflation policy making), trying take back previous inflationary monetary policy (by slowly tightening) and the yield curve declining, it's all good for now.
On this cycle (2011- ?) the inflation has clearly manifested in stocks. Funny money on the run, after all, is not discriminating money. It seeks assets… period. With gold having been harpooned due to the lethal combo of over-speculation and Bernanke's not so gentle twisted shove in 2011, the stock market was a layup (in hindsight, at least) in 2011; it was the path of least resistance.
Will the next turn up in the curve be inflationary or of the deflationary liquidation variety? That will likely be determined by what nominal yields are doing at the time. Either way, a rise in the yield curve could be supportive for gold simply because a) gold often works well during inflation and b) because gold is currently wearing it risk 'off' suit, in the event an upturn in the curve is deflationary. In that latter event its price might not move up much, and could decline, but it would sure as hell retain value better than the stuff that has received the inflationary bid, post-2011.
Subscribe to NFTRH Premium for your 40-55 page weekly report, interim updates and NFTRH+ chart and trade ideas or the free eLetter for an introduction to our work. Or simply keep up to date with plenty of public content at NFTRH.com and Biiwii.com. Also, you can follow via Twitter ;@BiiwiiNFTRH, StockTwits, RSS or sign up to receive posts directly by email (right sidebar).
By Gary Tanashian
http://biiwii.com
© 2017 Copyright Gary Tanashian - All Rights Reserved
Disclaimer: The above is a matter of opinion provided for general information purposes only and is not intended as investment advice. Information and analysis above are derived from sources and utilising methods believed to be reliable, but we cannot accept responsibility for any losses you may incur as a result of this analysis. Individuals should consult with their personal financial advisors.
Gary Tanashian Archive


Syezen, really really thousand THANK YOU to you for making me like a Celebrity in the pics….
im really look totally different with your make up…. is more+++++ beautiful and gorgeous!!!
i so cannot believe the photo outcome can be so GREAT!
Thanks again for your effort!!!


The greatest benefit that we offer as dedicated server providers is the money back guarantee option that is also known as satisfaction guarantee option. This is seldom provided by other dedicated server where money is refunded to the client without immediate delay if he/she is not satisfied with our service. Through this option, we provide a guarantee of our service as our only goal is to provide maximum satisfaction to our customers. Again, we assure you with GUARANTEE that we will give you MONEY REFUND for the unused month period if you are not satisfied with the server, no question will be asked.


We're spotlighting some of our BBC employees from around the country– including military veterans and spouses– in recognition of NAA's RPM Careers Month! Continue reading to learn more about Teresa, LifeWorks coordinator.
How many years have you been a military spouse? I was a military spouse for 25 years (active/retired).
What made you decide to enter in the military-area for your career? My spouse was already in the service and it was a convenient job opportunity.
How long have you worked for BBC? I've worked for the company for more than 12 years.
What do you enjoy most about your job and working with military families? Spending times with the families, learning about different places they have been or came from. Being a former military wife, I experienced the months separated from your spouse, living in a home but missing home and family. I love to give back to the spouses who keep the home fires burning by giving them a place to come and break free, enjoy others, and feel the sense of family.


text:
Q: Variable scoping and event handler Please see the jsfiddle:
http://jsfiddle.net/LsNCa/2/
function MyFunc() {

    for (var i = 0; i < 2; i++) { // i= 0, 1
        var myDiv = $('<div>');

        myDiv.click(function(e) {
            alert(i);    // both the two divs alert "2", not 0 and 1 as I expected
        });
        $('body').append(myDiv);
    }
}

var myFunc = new MyFunc();

I want the divs to alert "0" and "1" respectively when I click them, but both of them alert "2".
When I click the divs and the event is triggered, how and where do the handler find the value of the variable i?
I'm aware that adding a closure achieves my goal. But why?

A:     function MyFunc() {

    for (var i = 0; i < 2; i++) { // i= 0, 1
        (function(j) {
            var myDiv = $('<div>');

            myDiv.click(function(e) {
                alert(j);
            });
            $('body').append(myDiv);
        })(i);
    }
}

var myFunc = new MyFunc();

The code above is how you get it work correctly. Without an closure, you always the the last value of i. What we do is to post i into the closure and let the runtime "remember" the value of that very moment.

A: You need a closure because all your event handler functions are referencing the same variable i. The for loop updates this, and when the loop is done the variable contains 2. Then when someone clicks on one of the DIVs, it accesses that variable.
To solve this, each event handler needs to be a closure with its own variable i that contains a snapshot of the value at the time the closure was created.

A: I suggest that you read this article

JavaScript hoists declarations. This means that both var statements
  and function declarations will be moved to the top of their enclosing
  scope.

As @Barmar said in his answer above, the variable i is being referenced by both the event handlers.
You should avoid declaring functions inside loops. Below there is some code that does what you need.
I assume that you're using jQuery.
function MyFunc() {

    for (var i = 0; i < 2; i++) { // i= 0, 1
        var myDiv = $('<div>');

        $('body').append(myDiv);
    }
    $('div').on('click', function() {
        alert($(this).index());
    });
}

var myFunc = new MyFunc();

A: The "alert()" call happens after the for-loop completed, which means that the value of "i" will be the last value for anything after that. In order to capture individual values of "i", you must create a closure for each value by creating a new function:
function MyFunc() {

    function alertFn(val) {
        return function () {
            alert(val);
        };
    }

    for (var i = 0; i < 2; i++) {
        var myDiv = $('<div>');
        myDiv.click(alertFn(i));
        $('body').append(myDiv);
    }
}

var myFunc = new MyFunc();

The closure captures the value of "i" at the time it was passed into the function, allowing alert() to show the value you expect.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


Estate settlement in New York, including Westchester and Suffolk counties, requires a consideration of many issues. A post in the New York Probate Lawyer Blog on December 6, 2011 talked about a number of estate tax issues that should be considered, including the current $5 million federal tax exemption and "portability" of the unused exemption between spouses.
Executors and Administrators have the fiduciary responsibility of calculating and preparing both Federal and New York State estate taxes, as well as fiduciary estate income taxes. Once an estate comes into existence it is like an ongoing business. Assets must be determined and collected and liabilities and debts need to be paid or resolved. Essentially, the fair market value of the assets owned by a decedent at death will form the basis for determining the estate tax obligation. The income and expenses generated by the estate during the course of Estate Administration are factors to be considered in determining the estate's annual income tax liability.
Estate taxes are typically due to be paid nine (9) months after the decedent's date of death. Fiduciary income tax returns are usually due in April. Extensions for the filing of estate tax and income tax returns are routinely obtained but estimated payments on account of the taxes due must be timely made or interest and possibly penalties can be imposed.
The problem faced by many fiduciaries is obtaining enough information about assets, income, expenses and liabilities in a relatively short period of time so that accurate returns can be prepared and appropriate estimated payments can be made. This process can be complicated where the decedent's assets and income are not easily discovered or are complicated by issues of valuation or litigation regarding ownership. Nassau estate attorneys, like estate attorneys throughout New York, work closely with executors, administrators and trustees to obtain necessary information and plan for the filing and payment of these taxes.
An example of such problems was recently reported with regard to the estate of Brooke Astor. Many articles have been written concerning the estate of socialite Brooke Astor who died on August 13, 2007 and whose son was convicted of stealing her assets. In an article written by William P. Barrett which appeared in Forbes on December 7, 2011, it was reported that the IRS is seeking upwards of $62 million in taxes from the estate, which includes millions of dollars in assessed penalties. The tax disputes seem to concern charitable deductions that the IRS is refusing to recognize along with the failure of the decedent to file and pay certain gift taxes during her lifetime.
It is not uncommon for actions and failures to act by a decedent during life to have a dramatic effect upon estate settlement and, ultimately, estate beneficiaries. Suppose a decedent due to illness or neglect failed to file or pay income or gift taxes during the years prior to death. The estate fiduciaries have a fiduciary obligation to prepare these old and overdue tax returns and pay the tax liability along with any interest and penalty charges. Such payments may have a large impact upon the amount of monies that pass under a Last Will or by intestacy to the decedent's beneficiaries. The advice and counsel of estate attorneys is essential when dealing with these matters.


Any time we add a new carrier at YVR we like to take a closer look at the aircraft they plan on using for their route. Aeromexico (which begins operation in December at YVR) will be flying a Boeing 737-700. The Aeromexico Boeing 737-700 (pictured above with its old livery) is part of the Next Generation (737NG) series of aircraft, the name given to the 600,700,800, and 900 series of the updated version of the classic 737, which offers passengers a quieter and more fuel efficient aircraft.
These narrow-bodied aircraft are favoured for their reliability and relatively low operating costs. The 737-700 was the first of the Next Generation series when Southwest ordered the variant in November 1993. The variant was based on the 737-300 and entered service in 1998. It replaced the 737-300 in Boeing's lineup, and its direct competitor is the Airbus A319.
One of the most distinctive differences of the Next Generation 737s is the blended winglets. These wing tip extensions, each measuring eight feet in length and four feet in width at the base, narrowing to approximately two feet at the tip, provide several benefits including reduced fuel burn and increased range.
Operators: So many! Aeromexico, China Southern, WestJet, All Nippon Airways, Southwest et. al.
Did you Know? Approximately 50 gallons of paint are used to paint an average 737. Once dry, that paint will weigh approximately 250 pounds.


Every donation large and small will make a difference and will help fund safe houses, education, and health care for Afghan women and girls.
Contributions will also help prepare these images of hope for national and international museum exhibitions to share with the world.
All contributions are tax deductible through my Project Partnership with c3: Center for Conscious Creativity a 501(c)3 corporation.


text:
sentimental interest in Jackson
Thread starter HolyUnicorn
HolyUnicorn
Mandarin / the Shanghai Dialect
"With the tragic death of Michael Jackson on June 25, 2009, there was renewed sentimental interest in Jackson and his music and Disney was receiving pleas to bring back Captain EO. "
From The Misadventures of Captain EO - Part Two
WordReference Random House Learner's Dictionary of American English © 2019
sen•ti•men•tal /ˌsɛntəˈmɛntəl/ adj.
of or relating to the tender emotions, esp. excessively:sentimental dreams of love and marriage.
embarrassingly emotional:Let's not get too sentimental about our relationship.
nostalgic:a sentimental journey to one's old hometown.
sentimental - WordReference.com Dictionary of English
Could you explain what is "sentimental Interest"?
expos4ever
English - Canada/USA
If the statement were written in June 2019, I would expect the intent was to appeal to nostalgic feelings; after all, it has been 10 years exactly since Mr. Jackson died.
English - U.S.
It was describing the time directly after his death. Once he had died, people started wanting to re-watch earlier things he had done, as a way to remember/honor him because they had good memories (sentimental feelings) about seeing those things when they first came out. Captain EO was an attraction at Disney World with special effects that was presented many years before he died. It had later been replaced by other attractions. People wanted to have that experience again.
Myridon
The Jackson 5 had their first number one hit in 1969 so for some people in 2009 it was both immediate emotion and nostalgia.
Thanks expos4ever, kentix and Myridon for your help.


text:
Porsche 911 GT3 RS Model Might Be Heading to Geneva
By Eduard Huma / in Porsche / on Thursday, 26 Feb 2015 08:34 PM / 0 Comment / 4686 views
Porsche is presuming planning to introduce a brand new Porsche, in the shape of the 911 GT3 RS, and head it to the 2015 Geneva Motor Show, where every carmaker is about to launch its models. The model is also reported to be launched as a 2016 model, after being caught on shots by spy photographers.
More than that, what used to be just some rumors, the carmaker has also confirmed the upcoming of the Porsche 911 GT3 RS, which will share some features with the already launched Cayman GT4.
2016 Porsche 911 GT3 RS Spy Shot
In terms of visuals, the Porsche GTR3 RS will sport a more aerodynamic body styling, as the model will now weight less and will come with increase performance. But for now, the detailing is rather scarce.
In an official report, representatives from Porsche have also declared that the new Porsche GTR3 RS would become an instant success, as it would set "new standards on the racetrack", once it will be officially unveiled on March 3, at the Geneva`s Porsche press conference at the Palexpo Arena.
In terms of performance, the Porsche GTR3 RS is reported to come with an impressive power, in the shape of the new 4.0-liter naturally aspirated flat six-cylinder unit, which outputs 500 horsepower and 460 Nm of torque, while hooked to the 7-speed PDK transmission. More info on the new GTR3 RS`s performance will be revealed next week, in Geneva.
Tagged as:2015 Geneva Motor Show Porsche Porsche 911 Porsche Cayman GT4 Porsche GTR3 RS
Land Rover`s Discovery Sport & Evoque Announced with New Mills
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Eddie Fadal on his Friendship with Elvis (1991)
Jim Ruddy
Sound | 1991
Eddie Fadal was working as a disc jockey in Dallas when he first met Elvis in 1956
Fadal speaks about how Elvis would come visit him every weekend while he was stationed at Ft. Hood. They even went to Dairy Queen!
Fadal explains why he and Elvis were so close
Fadal built a room in his home especially for Elvis in 1958
Elvis fell in love with the piano in Fadal's home
About Eddie and Elvis About Eddie and Elvis
In this raw interview footage produced by Jim Ruddy for "Entertainment Tonight," Eddie Fadal talks about how he became friends with Elvis Presley and the nature of their friendship. Fadal was a close friend of Elvis from 1956 until his death. While Elvis was stationed at Ft. Hood in Killeen, he would visit the Fadal home in Waco every weekend, often with girlfriend Anita Wood and his parents, Vernon and Gladys. The Fadals even built on to their house to make a special room for Elvis! After his death, the Fadals made Elvis's room into the Elvis Memorial Museum.
Eddie Fadal's relationship with Elvis began in February 1956. Eddie was a disk jockey at KRLD in Dallas, and Elvis was making the rounds. When they met, Elvis asked Eddie to join him on tour, so Eddie quit his DJ job to join Elvis on the road.
When Elvis was drafted into the United States Army in 1958, at Fort Hood, Texas, he returned to the Fadal home on weekends for the six months he was stationed there. Many times he would unexpectedly show up at the Fadal home in the middle of the week when he would get a day off from the base.
He was royally welcomed each and every time, along with his relatives and friends who frequently accompanied him. The Fadals honored his request that he would have complete privacy from their own friends and family. A room was built onto the Fadal home, decorated in similar fashion to Elvis' own room at Graceland. A custom-built stereo was especially engineered for his comfort and each week's new record releases were awaiting him when he arrived from week to week.
Mrs. Fadal would take Elvis' mother, Gladys, with her to the grocery store to make sure the foods Elvis liked the most would be purchased and prepared to his liking. Mrs. Presley also helped in the preparation of the food. Everything that would be provided to make a home away from home for Elvis was done by the Fadals.
When Elvis' beloved mother passed away, Eddie accompanied Elvis to Memphis and remained at the Graceland Mansion for the entire 30 day leave Elvis was given from Fort Hood. They returned to Waco together and Elvis went on to Fort Hood where he would eventually ship out with the Second Armored Division to overseas duty in Germany.
A beautiful Live Oak tree was planted on the front terrace of the Fadal home on Lasker Avenue in perpetual memory to the late Gladys Love Presley. Elvis telephoned his deep appreciation but was unable to attend. Elvis told a close circle of friends on many occasions, "I can count on one hand the true friends I have and who don't need me or use me for anything and I'm proud to say that Eddie is one of them". Those words were ingrained in Eddie's memory, and in his words, "They shall remain there as long as I shall live." Eddie Fadal passed away in 1994.
(from Eddie Fadal's Elvis Presley Museum website)
Elvis Aaron Presley
Presley, Elvis Aaron
Eddie Fadal
Fadal, Eddie
Anita Wood
Wood, Anita
Eddie Fadal's Elvis Presley Museum
Fadal house
KRLD
home folk
harmonies
Vernon Elvis Presley
Gladys Love Presley
Vernon Presley
Gladys Presley
Presley, Vernon
Presley, Gladys
home movie
Ruddy, Jim
Categories: 1990s | Music | Interviews | Waco | The Jim Ruddy Collection


Let's be honest, saying goodbye can be hard. And judging from our behaviour, that sentiment even rings true when it comes to parting ways with our old smartphones.
Australians are holding on to their old phones for longer, rather than refurbishing or recycling them - and it's having real environmental consequences.
Nearly half (45 per cent) of Australians intend to recycle their old device but this motivation drops off with only one in 10 actually following through, according to new research by MobileMuster, Australia's government-accredited mobile phone recycling program.
The organisation estimates that there are 23 million unused mobile phones sitting in drawers and cupboards across the country, of which roughly five million are likely defunct.
If they're collecting dust it means the devices aren't ending up in landfill (e-waste is actually banned from landfill in South Australia and Victoria), but there is a huge opportunity cost incurred if they are not recycled.
"They're not ending up in our general waste stream, they're ending up in our homes. But the value comes from recovering those resources, and so reducing the need to mine virgin materials," MobileMuster manager Spyro Kalos told news.com.au.
Last year the program collected 90 tonnes of mobile phones and accessories including things like chargers and smart watches but that represents just a small portion of the e-waste out there.
Australia's e-waste has ballooned in recent years but the good news is 99 per cent of materials in a smartphone can be recovered into their raw forms and reused.
"It goes back into the supply chain to make new products," Mr Kalos said.
And that is the case for most electronic waste, meaning it's almost possible to achieve what is known as a circular economy when it come to their production.
Compared to other markets, only a small proportion of Australians lease their phone or trade their old device in when they get a new one. Because smartphones are such prized possessions, not to mention expensive, we tend to stash them away for safe keeping.
"We shove it in a drawer in case we need it later, but in reality we never go back to it," Mr Kalos said. "Two-thirds of us do that."
The introduction of the plastic bag ban in NSW this year helped make consumers more aware about the environmental impact of the waste they help generate.
In a bid to capitalise on that awareness - and encourage consumers to recycle their old phone - MobileMuster has partnered with Take 3 For the Sea, a not-for-profit that aims to reduce plastic pollution from oceans and waterways. During the months of January and February, every mobile phone recycled will help support the charity.
"The partnership will encourage people to recycle a mobile phone over the summer and by doing so it will help Take 3 for the Sea continue doing the great work they're doing in reducing plastic pollution," Mr Kalos said.
WHAT ABOUT DATA LEFT ON MY OLD PHONE?
A third of smartphone hoarders are concerned about the amount of personal data that remains on their device.
MobileMuster is aware that this uncertainty acts as an impediment to users recycling their phones, so the organisation has tips and how-to video guides on its website that explain how to completely wipe the data on iPhone and Android devices.
"When you recycle with MobileMuster, any data that's left on the device will actually get destroyed in the recycling process," Mr Kalos said.
Mobile Muster partners with global e-waste recycling company TES to recover the value of its donated electronics.
When processed, the phones are separated into all their various components. The batteries and some of the glass and metals are processed locally while other parts such as the circuit boards and certain plastics are shipped off to Singapore to be recycled.
"It is an involved process, but that's not to say it's difficult," Mr Kalos said. "You get really high recovery rates from electronic waste."
It's also quite important you don't just throw your broken electronics in the bin. Most electronic products contain hazardous materials such as lead, mercury, arsenic, phosphor, fluids and refrigerants. If they end up dumped in landfill, (particularly those that do not meet modern standards), or stored inappropriately, these hazardous materials release toxins into the air, as well as our soil and waterways.
WHERE CAN I RECYCLE MY OLD PHONE?
MobileMuster is funded by handset manufacureres and telco providers, and you can find its drop off bins in Telstra, Optus and Vodafone stores across the country. There are 3500 drop-off points across Australia where you can deposit your phone to be recycled for free.
However if you can't get to a store, you can pick up a free sachet from Australia Post and mail your old phone to them free of charge.
"As consumers we need to make a conscious effort that when we are done with it, it is processed properly," Mr Kalos said.


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December 03, 2008 | Judicial Watch
Murders Force Sanctuary Policy Challenge
Illegal immigrants with criminal histories had to commit four murders—including a high school honor student and an elderly woman—for officials in a Maryland county to finally admit there's a serious problem with their sanctuary policy.
All of the murderers had been previously arrested and released by police in cities that offer illegal aliens sanctuary. At least two of them were freed by authorities in the affluent Maryland county of Montgomery, a notorious illegal alien sanctuary with a police department that has a don't-ask-don't-tell immigration policy.
The victims include a 14-year-old boy shot to death on a crowded public bus by a member of a famously violent gang, a popular waiter stabbed to death, a man viciously attacked with a metal bat and an elderly woman. All of the homicides were committed by illegal immigrants who had been arrested in the past and released rather than deported.
The most recent case, last month's shooting of the teenage high school student, ignited a public outcry that evidently forced county officials to finally take a hard look at the sanctuary policy that has enabled so many illegal aliens to continue their crime sprees.
The boy was gunned down by an illegal immigrant (Hector Hernandez) from El Salvador who also wounded two other teenagers. The known member of the MS-13 or Mara Salvatrucha gang had been arrested by Montgomery County Police a few weeks earlier for concealing a dangerous weapon and was released. It marked the second time in a year that the department freed an MS-13 member who went on to commit an atrocious crime.
It took the boy's ruthless death for a light to at least flicker in the collective heads of Montgomery County officials, who this week said they plan to take a "more proactive approach" to prevent the release of illegal immigrants suspected of serious crimes. One Democrat councilman who is a renowned immigrant advocate actually admitted that "we're talking about the people who are clearly undesirable."


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Kanda Sayaka Dead: Japanese Actor Was 35
Japanese actor and musician Kanda Sayaka died on Saturday evening in Sapporo, Hokkaido. She was 35.
Her sudden death was confirmed by her agency and on her official website which removed all other content and replaced it with a notice.
"I would like to report to everyone who has supported Sayaka Kanda so far. Kanda Sayaka (35 years old) died suddenly at 9:40 pm on December 18, 2021. We are very sorry to give such a report to all the fans who supported us and all the people who took care of us. We are still unable to accept her passing and are trying to cope with it. We are currently investigating the detailed situation, but we kindly ask the media to refrain from interviewing relatives or posting articles by speculation," said Kamaichi Mitsuhisa, CEO of Robe Co. in the statement.
Kanda was found unconscious, in a pool of blood, in an outdoors part of the hotel in Sapporo, where she was staying. She appeared to have fallen six floors from her 22nd floor room. She was pronounced dead after being transported to hospital.
Hokkaido police in the city said that they had not ruled out death by suicide or foul play.
The daughter of Kanda Masaki and well-known singer-actor Matsuda Seiko, Kanda had a career that spanned film, TV, stage and music. She was married for two and a half years between 2017 and 2019, before the union ended in divorce.
Kanda appeared in the 1999 David Greenspan short film "Bean Cake," that won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes film festival. More recently she provided Japanese voice dubbing for Anna in Disney's "Frozen."
Japanese media report that Kanda had been set to play the role of Eliza Dolittle in the Sapporo Cultural Arts Theater's production of "My Fair Lady." Earlier in the day, she reported as unwell and canceled her performance.
Related Topics:ActordeadJapaneseKandaSayaka
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Why Should You Consider PPC Marketing Company For PPC Advertising?
Today, advertisement has become really very common and famous thing. Almost everyone who is connected with the internet knows about advertising and its type. Ppc is one of the most popular advertising types and it is because it offers high profitability to the advertisers. There are so many online famous online advertisement companies like Google Adwords etc. which offer direct user based advertisement. Here you can create your account for free and start investing in advertisement. It would not ask for any management fee or any other charge. So, now the question comes why should you consider PPC marketing company for your advertising purposes? A free of cost option is available then why should you prefer paying extra charges for same service?
Well, if we will look it this way then it will definitely look like you are doing a deal of loss but the fact says when you consider PPC marketing company for advertisement, you enhances the possibilities of profits in same advertisement budget! The success and profitability of any PPC advertisement depends on the targeted traffic. There are so many people who don't think it important and they run their advertisements individually. The loss is in their profitability. Most of the people don't realize it but this is fact because they can get even more profitability in same budget but they are getting low just because of wrong audience target.
PPC is really very effective advertising type and if you will target it on right keywords and searches then the profitability would be automatically increased or multiplied in same budget! The proficiency and correctness of your advertisement campaign matters the most. It will take really very long time for you to gather all the information about accurateness of PPC advertisement campaign but if you will take the help of any knowledgeable professional then you would be able to avail the additional profitability of your advertisement budget from first day. Considering ppc marketing company for your PPC advertisement is beneficial because they will offer you professional services and your advertisements would be targeted to the right keywords and right audience. This will reduce the number of no benefit clicks and impressions which will eventually turn your advertising budget into more profitability.
The professional advertising and marketing company will follow the procedure of analyzing and reporting for better understanding. Then the competitive research will be done for increasing profitability. Web analyzes and other marketing services like SEO, social media and other would also be a part of PPC marketing company's work and thus you will get best results of your investment. In other words, you will get management, advertisement and marketing service from single place and this bunch of services would be really very cost worthy for you.
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"Jardin de Versailles is a collection of pretty prints that could have been found in the Palace de Versailles in the 18th century. Inspired by the gardens, our Jardin is filled with soft pinnks, pretty purples, lovely greens and a touch of our signature French General red. This collection will make up the sweetest quilts and bedding, or maybe a little girl's frock or two. Our Marie Antoinette panel is printed on 100% cotton and is ideal for a medallion quilt or maybe a couple of French cushions."


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Facebook beefs up political ad rules ahead of EU election
Kelvin Chan
LONDON — Facebook said Friday it's further tightening up requirements for European Union political advertising, in its latest efforts to prevent foreign interference and increase transparency ahead of bloc-wide voting in May.
The social media giant said it will require political advertisers to confirm they are located in an EU country. That's on top of a previously announced requirement that ad buyers must confirm their identities.
Ads that don't comply will be blocked starting in mid-April.
Silicon Valley tech companies are facing rising pressure from EU authorities to do more to prevent their platforms being used by outside groups to meddle in elections. EU officials in January singled out Russia as a prime source of disinformation in Europe.
Hundreds of millions of people are set to vote for more than 700 EU parliamentary lawmakers on May 23-26.
Facebook, which also owns Instagram and WhatsApp, will ask ad buyers to submit documents and will use technical checks to verify their identity and location.
"We recognize that some people can try and work around any system but we are confident this will be a real barrier for anyone thinking of using our ads to interfere in an election from outside of a country," Richard Allen, Facebook's vice-president of global policy solutions, said in a blog post.
Facebook said earlier this year that EU political ads will carry "paid for by" disclaimers. Clicking the label will reveal more detailed information such as how much money was spent on the ad, how many people saw it, and their age, gender and location.
The ad transparency rules have already been rolled out in the U.S., Britain, Brazil, India, Ukraine and Israel. Facebook will expand them globally by the end of June.
Twitter and Google have introduced similar political ad requirements.
Facebook is also making improvements to a database that stores ads for seven years, including widening access so that election regulators and watchdog groups can analyze political or issue ads.


The Apple event invite is again cryptic.
How many iPhones will there be?
This is the question the world has to ask every year, before every Apple event. This time observers are betting on three devices: two iPhone 11 models which will be upgrades of the Apple X launched last year; and, maybe, and a cheaper iPhone 9 to rake in the numbers around the world. However, the iPhone 9 model is clearly in the realm of speculation. I would not be surprised if the iPhone 9 model(s) are upgrades of the iPhone 8 series with something extra thrown in.
Will there be a larger iPhone X?
This seems to be almost certain at the moment, a 6.1-inch version of the iPhone X mode. Whether Apple calls this the iPhone 11 or the iPhone XS is up to the people in Cupertino. However, a larger screen on the iPhone X design will clearly find many takers as there were those who felt the iPhone X was a bit small for their use even though they found the rest of the phone good.
Will there be a cheaper iPhone?
Apple did not really go the path of the iPhone SE despite all the rumours about newer models with affordable price tags. Personally, I don't think Apple will go down that path as it will bring down its overall average selling price, which is above $700 at the moment. Also, I am not sure an affordable Apple phone really works, unless it is below the $250 range. Many people buy an iPhone because they want to announce to the world that they can afford one. A cheaper iPhone will defeat this purpose as they would rather but a costlier model that is old than a new one with a price tag everyone knows is low.
Will Apple kill 3D Touch?
The 3D Touch hasn't really been all that popular with iPhone users. So there is a possibility Apple might drop this feature. However, we need to wait and see if this happens this year or next.
What will the big bets be on?
Apple is expected to push the performance of all its devices with new processors. Also, there will be better cameras in all the models for sure — maybe even a dual camera set up across all the devices it launches. I won't be surprised is the Touch ID is dropped across models in favour of the Face ID. Apple is also expected to launch the Apple Watch 4, maybe with a larger screen. There could also be a new iPad Pro model.


The Canadian Premier League seasons starts this weekend. Here's what you need to know–every team, nearly every player, and predictions aplenty.
FC Edmonton will be trying new things with new players… and a few old vets. Dive into the next generation in the season preview.
Wanderer's Ground may be festive, but on the pitch, Halifax will be hard to beat. Stephen Hart has built a balanced, gritty squad as capable of frustrating opponents as dictating a game.
Jim Brennan is famous for his time in England. Will he lead York 9 the same way he played? Or is something else at play given York's trio of star midfielders?
Rumour had it Diego Forlan might land in Winnipeg. Not so, and Valour still have some questions in attack. Can Rob Gale answer them with a back three?
#hippychivas: Plaudits for Pacific home cooking, but whither the roster?
Pacific FC have an identity, but the plan to implement it might be coming up against the realities of recruitment and injuries. Can Pacific overachieve with a young, makeshift roster?
Calgary Foothills have had an upgrade. Now playing out of historic Spruce Meadows, and supplemented by some veteran talent, Cavalry FC could challenge in CanPL.
It's Hammer Time: Is Forge stronger on paper or pitch?
Forge are everybody's favourites. Sometimes that can mean a long way to fall from expectations. On paper, this is the best team in the league, but tactical questions linger.


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Five Dead In 20 Years: A Look At Pipeline Safety In Kentucky
By Ryan Van Velzer • Aug 23, 2019
Ryan Van Velzer
The self-proclaimed "World's Longest Yard Sale" cuts straight through Kentucky on Highway 127. The nearly 700 mile yard sale is almost as long as the 77-year-old section of pipeline that carries natural gas through the state. And in the early hours of August 1, hours before the yard sale was set to begin, part of that pipeline exploded just off of Highway 127 near Danville.
Brian Wade and his fiancée Roxann Brasfield had just set up for the yard sale and decided to stay the night in the greenhouse of Wade's nursery business to keep an eye on their belongings.
Regulators Release Early Findings In Danville Gas Pipeline Explosion
By Ryan Van Velzer • Aug 9, 2019
Erica Peterson
The natural gas explosion that killed one and injured six near Danville, Kentucky left behind a crater 50-feet long and 13-feet deep.
The concussive force from the blast was so great, federal regulators shut down two nearby pipelines to inspect them for damage. In the explosion's wake, flames as tall as 300 feet scorched homes, railroad tracks, trees and vegetation for 30 acres around the site.
Investigators have not yet found the cause of last week's explosion, but the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration released its preliminary findings in a corrective action report Thursday.
UPDATED: 1 Dead, 5 Hospitalized In Lincoln County Gas Pipeline Explosion
By Associated Press & Ryan Van Velzer • Aug 1, 2019
A regional gas pipeline ruptured early Thursday in Kentucky, causing a massive explosion that killed one person, hospitalized five others, destroyed railroad tracks and forced the evacuation of a nearby mobile home park, authorities said.
The 30 inch wide pipeline moves natural gas under high pressure, so the rupture at about 1 a.m. caused a tremendous amount of damage in the immediate area, authorities said. Firefighters were still working to douse the flames hours later, with trucks repeatedly refilling their tanks and returning to the scene.
Stanford, Kentucky Mayor-Elect Dies Suddenly
By WKU Public Radio News • Nov 21, 2014
Lincoln County Democratic Party
T.J. Hill, a longtime police officer in Stanford who was set to become mayor of the Lincoln County town in January, was found dead at his home Thursday. The cause of death remains under investigation, but police tell the Advocate-Messenger foul play is not suspected.
Hill defeated incumbent Bill Miracle earlier this month. He was set to take the oath of office Jan. 1
An autopsy is scheduled to take place Friday in Frankfort.


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"The Brasco FIles" is an all-new set of action-packed adventures inspired by FBI Special Agent Joseph D. Pistone who is better known as the real person behind the gripping "Donnie Brasco" story. In 1980's Brooklyn, Pistone risked life and limb every day and spent nearly six years undercover in the Bonnano crime family. His one-man operation resulted in dozens of arrests and convictions for some of the biggest names in organized crime.
"The Brasco FIles" creates a series of stories that take place several years later when Pistone, a huge Mafia contract still on his head in the US, is forced to work undercover someplace else, someplace even more dangerous, the deep, deadly and dark underworld of Italy and Europe.
Written by Rob Travalino
Producers, Chris Bongirne, Lou Diagiamo, Joe Pistone & Rob Travalino


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The great global bazaar
NEW YORK - I have had the same apartment in New York City for almost 40 years but have actually lived in it for less than half of that time, owing to a busy travel schedule. I enjoy it; my experiences abroad have taught me the importance of an open mind and have given me a willingness to wander off the beaten path - not only to keep life interesting but also to understand in a meaningful way that things do not look the same from every vantage point.
The most interesting lessons often lie in the mundane - those aspects of everyday life that locals take for granted and tourists tend to overlook. For example, at my Western hotel in South Korea there was a pictogram alongside the toilet explaining how to use it properly - that is, to sit on the seat, rather than crouching over the bowl, as one would on a traditional South Korean toilet.
In 1989, during a trip to Estonia - then still a part of the Soviet Union - I asked my interpreter, a moonlighting dentist, to take me to her dental clinic. Beyond getting a glimpse of the equipment - old and sickly green - I learned that my interpreter and her colleagues were augmenting their state salaries with direct (and much higher) payments from Finnish dental tourists. When they had saved enough money, they explained, they would purchase new equipment and launch their own practice.
My dentist-guide also described her work spreading "sanitary propaganda" - that is, visiting local grade schools to teach children how to brush their teeth. But, she noted, many could not even afford toothbrushes. I had had no idea that the tin of dental floss in my pocket - which I quickly handed over - was so valuable.
Around the same time, while sitting in a government office in Moscow, I gained another small but powerful insight. When the phone rang, no one moved - an unnerving response to an American, for whom a ringing phone demands an immediate reaction in anticipation of an opportunity. When I asked about it, the employees explained what to them was obvious: "People call offices only about problems." Solving problems, they evidently believed, was not part of their job.
Late communism was a strange time indeed. A Hungarian friend who worked in a Budapest hotel during that period described an experience that surprised even him. When asked to take several bottles of water to a room that he had not previously known existed, he found a group of men wearing headsets, listening to what was happening in the other rooms.
More recently, in 2008, I took a weekend visit to Baku, Azerbaijan, the hometown of my friend and travel companion Tatyana Kanzevali - a former chess champion who had often played against Garry Kasparov while he, too, was growing up in Baku. The opportunity to see the city through a local's eyes, hearing stories about everything from high school teachers to food shortages, was invaluable.
If I had not known better, I might have thought that the word "aliyev" meant street, because it appeared on almost every street sign. But it was the name of the ruler, Heydar Aliyev, whose son, Ilham, succeeded him in 2003 and remains President to this day.
During our visit, my friend and I visited an orphanage to which she had sent a dozen computers the previous year. Some had been distributed to administrators, but several were now available for children to use during supervised lessons. I vividly remember the children's delighted squeals as they ran through the yard playing with the bubble-blowing pens that we had brought them.
Finally, two years ago in Cuba, after advertising for "entrepreneurs" on Twitter, I had the opportunity to meet several dissidents. The meeting was fascinating, despite - or perhaps partly because of - the furtive glances of two watchful men peering at us from behind their newspapers at the next table.
But a thirst for knowledge is useful not only in foreign countries. Indeed, it is critical to gaining insight into the differences - and similarities - among people of different backgrounds, even those who live just a few towns or miles apart.
That is precisely the attitude that I hope to bring to my travels within the United States for The Way to Wellville contest, in which five communities will compete to improve their health. Rick Brush, the competition's CEO, and I have already visited several of the 10-15 communities that we will explore before choosing the five contestants.
One stop was Lancaster, Pennsylvania, where we met a group of health- and civic-minded citizens at a grade school. Teachers described the experience of taking unfinished meals home from a restaurant in a doggy bag, in the hope of instilling in their students the understanding that it is better to enjoy leftovers later than to overeat now. (And, my Silicon Valley perspective told me, the restaurant could increase its revenue by selling ads on the sides of the doggy bags.)
In Niagara Falls, New York, we met with a larger group, including Mayor Paul Dyster, who last year officiated at the state's first gay wedding, and a pastor who had also attended that wedding, carrying a protest sign. Despite their differences, both came to the meeting to discuss the community's health with a friendly and constructive attitude.
However, the pastor did express some frustration that the police drive through, rather than walk around, the neighborhoods. A couple of hours later, as we drove through on a site visit, our path was blocked by two police cars, stopped side by side in the middle of the street, with the officers talking. I doubt they were discussing their - and their community's - health.
Copyright: Project Syndicate, 2014.
*The author, principal of EDventure Holdings, is an entrepreneur and investor concentrating on emerging markets and technologies.
BY Esther Dyson


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How California"s drought is changing organic milk and honey
The milk that you think is organic, isn''t. Not really.Blame the California drought, which has dried up the grass that gives farmers the right to slap the label "organic" on...
Eggs are the heroes of the kitchen
For me, eggs are as vital as salt and water in the kitchen. They are my store cupboard heroes and, though they are cheap, they should never be undervalued. Eggs...
California drought could spark "out of bounds" wildfires, officials warn
California is facing wildfires "outsize of any normal bounds" as a historic drought turns drying brush and trees into a perfect tinderbox, officials have warned. The state recorded 665 wildfires...
How can I remove redirection malware from my PC?
I use the Firefox web browser with Adblock, and I run AVG anti-virus. Frequently, but not always, when I click on a link in a Google search result, it takes...
Dieting is more than calories in, calories out
In a central London basement, Shelina Permalloo, a former winner of Masterchef, cooks salmon for the 10 best Weight Watchers in the country. Permalloo herself is 4 1/2 pounds off...
How to cook with eggs
How to cook veggies with an edge
Lord knows, it shouldn''t be so hard to make vegetables taste good. Many cuisines do it with ease. At night, I dream of the infinite variety and subtlety of south...
Thrown in jail for being poor: the booming for-profit probation industry
In January 2013, Clifford Hayes, a homeless man suffering from lupus and looking for a night off the streets, walked into the sheriff''s office in Augusta, Georgia. It was a...
Should I have a mammogram?
It is uncomfortable and not always conclusive. About one in 20 women are called back for further tests, of whom one in six will have breast cancer: but it is...
India has defeated one of its toughest foes: polio
India is on course to be formally declared free of polio this year, marking a milestone in global health.The country''s last case of the polio virus was detected on Jan....


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Regulatory and Standards
Common Cause: Sinclair Fine 'Insufficient' Penalty
By Michael Balderston 07 May 2020
Organization says fine, the largest against a broadcaster in FCC history, equates to a slap on the wrist.
(Image credit: Common Cause)
WASHINGTON—Having to pay $48 million to reconcile with three FCC investigations is an instance of Sinclair Broadcast Group getting off easy, according to Common Cause, especially as the broadcaster has been a repeat offender, the nonpartisan watchdog organization says.
The FCC fined, and Sinclair has agreed to pay, $48 million in civil penalties after a year-long investigation into Sinclair's disclosure of information regarding its proposed acquisition of Tribune Media, as well as relating to two other investigations of if it negotiated retransmission agreements in good faith and failing to identify the sponsor of content supplied to both Sinclair and non-Sinclair TV stations.
"We commend the FCC for taking enforcement action against Sinclair," said Michael Copps, Common Cause special adviser and former FCC commissioner, in a statement. "But the penalty amounts to a slap on the wrist for a conglomerate that has a history of bending the FCC's rules and pursuing acquisition strategies that make a mockery of the broadcast ownership limits. Misrepresentation and lack of candor are serious allegations for any broadcaster let alone one that has continued to push the constraints of ownership structures placed by the commission. … The airwaves belong to the public and must reflect the diversity of voices in our democracy."
Coops called the consent decree insufficient, suggesting that the cases that Sinclair was facing warranted debate on whether it should be able to keep its license. But, Coops argues, the decision by the FCC should not eliminate the FCC from reviewing Sinclair's license when it comes up for review.
"The public should have full opportunity to weigh in on these renewal applications, and the commission must keep a watchful eye that Sinclair does not violate any of its rules," Copps added.
Copps' full statement is available online.


It seems the month of December was all about the arm candy with 3 new additions to the family. I don't really do the ruck sack thing, but when I do it's got to be Grafea. The smooth matte monochrome leather and cold silver accents of the 'Piano' ruck sack immediately stole my heart and fitted seamlessly into my current wardrobe style. The monochrome diaries continue.
I was a little shocked by the size of this jumper, but now the temperature creeps ever closer to sub zero it has been a welcomed cocoon of warmth and style. I'm currently snuggling in my cocoon as I type this. Is it Summer yet?


text:
Exclusive: Pyaar Prema Kaadhal wooes the youth, emerges a superhit
Lmk August 13 2018, 4.21 pm
Yuvan Shankar Raja's maiden production venture, Pyaar Prema Kaadhal (PPK) is well on its way to becoming a superhit. The movie has reportedly grossed Rs 3.38 crore in TN in its first three days, with Chennai contributing a gross of Rs 69 lakh.
The film held strong on its first Monday as well, thanks to patronage from college students. The popular Rohini multiplex in Chennai tweeted that their Monday morning show of PPK had gone Housefull. The trade perception is that PPK will now perform at a much better level than the other new release, Kamal Haasan's biggie Vishwaroopam 2. The national holiday this coming Wednesday, August 15 will enable the film to get Housefull shows again.
Yuvan's songs are a major factor in PPK hitting the right notes with the youth audience. The lead pair, Harish Kalyan, and Raiza Wilson, has emerged as stars and director Elan joins the list of promising filmmakers.
Elan's first film Graghanam (which has been stuck in the cans for quite some time) can now be expected to find a release date soon, thanks to the success that he has achieved with PPK. Krishna, Chandran, and Karunakaran have played the lead roles in the film.
Box OfficeEntertainmentHarish KalyankollywoodPyaar Prema KaadhalRaiza WilsonregionaltamilYuvan Shankar Raja
nextSye Raa Narasimha Reddy: It's time over cost for Chiranjeevi's magnum opus!


There is no shortage of protest across the political spectrum. Some promote fair trade over free trade and argue for turning the minimum wage into a living wage; they seek to strengthen immigrant rights and oppose racism. Others object to activist judges, family-hostile state laws and school curricula, and porous borders. But increasingly, all these concerns are framed in terms of concern for the most vulnerable members of society. These issues rouse people out of their living rooms, out of the pews, and into society to work for change.
While I celebrate this development, I worry that we are perilously weak at walking alongside the poor, at investing directly into the lives of individuals to give them what they truly need—not what we believe they need or what our policy statements tell us they need. I've found that it's relatively easy to raise a voice in protest, but unfathomably hard to invest in a life.
I was reminded of Rudy's advocacy this week after visiting Turkey Hill in Lancaster County, PA. Founded by a devoted Christian 75 years ago, Turkey Hill has grown into a major regional dairy, and their frozen yogurt is one of the country's largest brands.
During my visit, Quintin Frey, the current president and the founder's grandson, shared with me his father's paraphrase of Romans 12:11-21. Romans 12 is the chapter that begins by exploring what it means to be living sacrifices transformed by the renewing of our minds, and ends with an exploration of love that is sincere. Mr. Frey's paraphrase explores what sincere love looks like for business owners.
"Work hard at your business, but keep a proper balance between your fervor for it and the Lord's business, which you are also doing.
The hope of success spurs you hopefully on, but watch out, there will be many times when you lose money, so pray continually.
This formula permits you to have money to give to people in need, and to entertain others in your home and in your church.
Bless those who levy taxes and controls, those who take your customers, your market, or your money. Don't get angry about it.
Be happy when the other fellow is successful. Be sympathetic with those who are having a hard time of it.
Don't get high-minded a stuck-up when you succeed, but act as though you had failed and were poor. Don't think your success was all because of you.
Don't try to beat the 'sharpie' salesman or businessman because he pulled a fast deal on you. Let your dealing have an honest ring to your employees, your customers, and your fellow businessmen.
Some customers you can never satisfy, and some inspectors you can never please, but keep trying without getting huffy.
Dear fellow businessmen and women, don't think you must win every time. If you lose, don't try to make it up on the next deal. The Lord will take care of those characters.
Instead, do him a good turn; that will really roast him out.
Quintin Frey honors his father and grandfather by keeping this vision central to Turkey Hill's business mission. Mr. Frey's business remains a generous supporter of youth ministries throughout the region, not to mention a principal employer in Lancaster County.
Rural dairies. Business as mission. Urban youth ministry. Is there a connection? What say you?


text:
module Cryptoexchange::Exchanges
  module Coinfalcon
    module Services
      class OrderBook < Cryptoexchange::Services::Market
        class << self
          def supports_individual_ticker_query?
            true
          end
        end

        def fetch(market_pair)
          output = super(ticker_url(market_pair))
          adapt(output['data'], market_pair)
        end

        def ticker_url(market_pair)
          "#{Cryptoexchange::Exchanges::Coinfalcon::Market::API_URL}markets/#{market_pair.base}-#{market_pair.target}/orders?level=3"
        end

        def adapt(output, market_pair)
          order_book = Cryptoexchange::Models::OrderBook.new
          order_book.base = market_pair.base
          order_book.target = market_pair.target
          order_book.market = Coinfalcon::Market::NAME
          order_book.asks = adapt_orders output['asks']
          order_book.bids = adapt_orders output['bids']
          order_book.timestamp = nil
          order_book.payload = output
          order_book
        end

        def adapt_orders(orders)
          orders.collect do |order_entry|
            Cryptoexchange::Models::Order.new(price: order_entry['price'],
                                              amount: order_entry['size'],
                                              timestamp: nil)
          end
        end
      end
    end
  end
end


text:
Sumin Kang, PhD
Sumin Kang
Dr. Kang's research interest is centered on better understanding of the protein kinase signaling as well as metabolic reprogramming in tumorigenesis and tumor metastasis using translational and preclinical studies.
smkang@emory.edu
Associate Professor, Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology
Division Director of Basic and Translational Science, Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology
Sumin Kang, PhD, is Associate Professor and Division Director of Basic and Translational Science in the Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology at Emory University School of Medicine. Dr. Kang is a member of the Cell and Molecular Biology Research Program at Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University.
Dr. Kang obtained her PhD from Yonsei University in Seoul, Korea. She completed her postdoctoral training at Emory University School of Medicine before joining the faculty in 2009.
Dr. Kang's laboratory focuses on phosphor-proteomics based studies to elucidate signaling mechanisms underlying protein kinase or metabolic enzyme-dependent oncogenesis and tumor metastasis; translational and preclinical studies using in vitro cell assays and in vivo mouse models of tumors and metastases to evaluate small molecule inhibitors to treat human cancers; and studies to elucidate the role of post-translational modifications of protein kinases and metabolic enzymes in pathogenesis and disease progression of human cancers including leukemia and solid tumors.
Dr. Kang has extensive publications in major peer-reviewed journals such as Cancer Cell, Molecular Cell, Journal of Clinical Investigation, Molecular and Cellular Biology, Journal of Biological Chemistry and Blood.
Dr. Kang is supported with competitive peer-reviewed federal grants including NIH R01 for transcription-dependent and independent signaling of RSK2 in cancer. She has received various prestigious awards including American Cancer Society Basic Research Scholar Award, The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Special Fellow Award, Georgia Cancer Coalition Cancer Research Award and Robbins Scholar Award.
Dr. Kang's Lab Site
Emory University School of Medicine faculty profile


text:
The Threshold Test for a Permanence Order -The City of Edinburgh Council v GD [2018] CSIH 52
The Threshold Test for a Permanence Order - The City of Edinburgh Council v GD [2018] CSIH 52
Part 2 of the Adoption and Children (Scotland) Act 2007 ("the Act") concerns the making of "permanence orders" whereby parental rights and responsibilities are vested in a local authority and in certain cases authority is granted for a child to be adopted. Section 84(5)(c)(ii) of the Act provides that before a permanence order can be made the court must be satisfied that the child's residence with his/her parent(s) "is or is likely to be seriously detrimental to the welfare of the child." This has become known as the "threshold test" and it must be met before a permanence order can be made. The recent decision of the First Division of the Court of Session in The City of Edinburgh Council v GD [2018] CSIH 52 has clarified the time at which the threshold test is to be applied.
In GD the child concerned, SD aged 4, at the time of the application for the permanence order, had been taken into care because he had suffered proven non- accidental injuries. A finding by a Children's Hearing that SD had been the victim of culpable and reckless conduct involving bodily injury was accepted by both parents and deemed established. Only one or both of the parents had the opportunity to inflict the injuries but both parents denied knowing how SD had suffered his injures despite having accepted the ground. The child having been taken into care, the local authority decided to apply for a permanence order with authority to adopt.
The father opposed the application. The mother did not oppose it. The subsequent proceedings before the Sheriff, the Sheriff Appeal Court and the First Division raise other legal issues of some importance but the present focus is on the approach taken to the threshold test set out in Section 84(5)(c)(ii) of the Act.
The Sheriff approached the issue of the threshold test by basing his decision on all the relevant information before the court at the time of the decision. By then, for example, the father of the child, on whom the Sheriff made some favourable comments, had indicated that he would be prepared to be the child's sole carer and that eventually had not been properly assessed by the local authority. The application was therefore refused.
The Sheriff Appeal Court disagreed and held that the threshold test was to be met by reference to the circumstances at the time when a child was removed from the parents' care. The threshold test on that approach had been met because at the point at which SD had been taken into care his residence with his father was seriously detrimental for the purposes of Section 84(5)(c)(ii). The Sheriff Appeal Court concluded that the other tests that were to be met had been satisfied and made the permanence order with authority to adopt.
Although in the First Division there was disagreement as to what the outcome should be, the three judges (Lord President Carloway, Lord Menzies and Lord Malcolm) were unanimous as to when the threshold test was to operate. Agreeing with the Sheriff, the First Division held that the test was to be applied at the time the decision on the permanence order was being made, and not at an earlier point such as when the child was removed from his parents' care or at the date of the application for a permanence order. That meant that the Sheriff Appeal Court's reasoning when considering the threshold test was wrong in law. However, the majority (Lord President Carloway and Lord Menzies) concluded that the Sheriff Appeal Court had reached the correct decision on the known facts and upheld its decision to grant the permenance order with authority to adopt. Lord Malcolm disagreed and concluded that it was not open for the First Division as a court of appeal to disagree with the Sheriff on the issue of fact.
What the decision highlights for practitioners of family law is the importance of the need to explore the position of a parent who wants to oppose the granting of a permanence order after a child has been taken into care. A parent who, for example, was a drug addict and guilty of neglecting a child may, after the child has been taken into care, obtain treatment and undergo significant lifestyle changes. Such evidence will now be highly relevant to the application of the threshold test. The client who seeks advice on opposing an application for a permanence order that seeks authority for adoption, and whose child has been taken into care because of neglect caused by lifestyle deficiencies, will need to be advised that addressing these lifestyle deficiencies will be important to any prospect of success.
The Drummond Miller family team is extremely experienced in dealing with all aspects of family law, including parental rights and responsibilities and disputes regarding children. If you would like any further information or advice, please get in touch with our experienced solicitors in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dalkeith, Musselburgh and Bathgate.
For Solicitors


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text:
#3 Léon: The Professional
on The Most Exciting Movies About Female Assassins
#1 Katara
on All Water Tribe Members From The Avatar Universe, Ranked
Toss a Coin to Your WitcherOn a medieval Continent, Geralt hunts monsters, Yennefer conjures magic, and princess Ciri is on the run. This is only the beginning.
What to Know About Becoming a Witcher
Wardrobe Secrets from Behind the Scenes
The Timeline of Season One, Explained
Toss a Coin to These Memes
Geralt's Greatest Quotes
Fan Theories We Want to Believe
How They Look in the Video Games
How Magic Works
Who Are Your Favorite Characters?
The Internet's Most Hilarious Reactions
Ranking the Best Episodes (So Far)
Bewitching Posts About Yennefer
Great Moments in Gerannefer
Reactions to Season 2
How Henry Cavill Has Bewitched Our Hearts
Very Cool Fan Art & Mash-Ups
Real-World Lore Behind the Monsters
The Real-World Folklore Behind Witcher Monsters
T.W. Mitchell
February 10, 2022 77.5k views11 items
Andrzej Sapkowski created a fantasy world that has enthralled millions across the globe with his stories about Geralt of Rivia - but have you ever stopped to wonder where all his Witcher monster inspirations came from? After all, it's not like the man came up with each and every fiendish beastie off the top of his head. Stories of all sorts and stripes take inspiration from the works that came before, and Sapkowski is no different.
When filling his mythical Continent with magical monsters, he used names and characteristics from the folklore of old. Leshies, basilisks, kikimora, and many more were all inspired by legends and myths of years gone by. Some of the Witcher monsters bear little resemblance to their namesakes, while others are obvious homages to famous things that go bump in the night. If you feel like having a little bit of a history lesson, scroll on down and learn a bit more about the horrors Geralt has to run down with his silver sword from time to time.
Photo: Netflix / Н. Н. Брут / Public Domain
The Witcher Version: A couple of the standout moments from Season 2 of The Witcher involved a leshy. Geralt has come face-to-face with a leshy on more than one occasion, and seeing his close friend, Eskel, turn into one of the woodland beasts proves to be a tough moment for the gruff witcher. The leshies seen in Netflix's The Witcher aren't even the normal sort usually found in the world. According to the official bestiary of the show, the leshy that turns Eskel has a mutation that "allows it to take control of those it wounds."
The Real-World Folklore: The famed leshy of Slavic folklore is less of a tree monster and more of a shape-shifting trickster god. Also known as the "Old Man of the Forest," the leshy defends woodland creatures at all costs. His normal form is that of a giant man with green, fur-like hair. Perhaps most important is that he has his own holiday! If you're interested in paying homage to the "demon-god," the Leshy Feast Day is celebrated on September 27.
Photo: Netflix / Friedrich Johann Justin Bertuch / Public Domain
The Witcher Version: Basilisks run rampant all over the Continent. Although they originate from desert areas, their wings and voracious appetites allow them to spread everywhere there is food to be had. They not only have a venomous bite, but toxic breath, as well. Staying away from their mouths, in general, seems to be a good idea. The Oxenfurt Book of Beasts claims "they spawn like weeds and are equally hard to eradicate." Basically, they're mean, serpent-like beasts with bird wings.
The Real-World Folklore: Smithsonian magazine describes an interesting origin for the snake-bird hybrid. According to legend, the basilisk is "a crested snake that hatched from an egg laid by a rooster and incubated by a toad." You know, something that is totally impossible and very weird! Legends of the basilisk go all the way back to the writings of famed Roman historian Pliny the Elder. It also was, according to myth, extremely powerful - in ways that would make those from The Witcher seem quaint in comparison. The basilisk of old was "widely believed to wither landscapes with its breath and kill with a glare." Geralt would've been no match for the basilisks at the end of Season 2 had they been that mighty.
Bruxa
Photo: Netflix / David Henry Friston / Public Domain
The Witcher Version: With vampires continuing to be all the rage in the years after Twilight set the box office alight, you just knew some form of Dracula-esque baddie would show up in The Witcher sooner or later. Longtime fans may be impatiently waiting for Regis to make his debut in the television series, but the bruxa was a nice consolation prize. Vereena, the bruxa from Season 2, has all kinds of powers. She can shape-shift, she's telepathic, and she can fly. Most treacherous (outside of her many rows of teeth) is the sonic blast she can let loose when her jaw is unhinged.
The Real-World Folklore: In Portuguese folklore, the broxa is a "vampiric, demonic witch" that was created only by witchcraft itself. It is much like the bruxa of The Witcher series in that it is a shape-shifting vampire that flies, but it also has mind-control powers and is prone to divination, as well. Alas, according to the Encyclopedia of Vampire Mythology, the broxa is "impossible to kill no matter what form it assumes." Thankfully for Geralt and Ciri, this isn't the case when they come across Vereena.
Photo: Netflix / V.I. Denisov / Public Domain
The Witcher Version: This massive, eight-legged monstrosity is Geralt's memorable first kill in the Netflix series. The kikimora from the beginning of the first episode gives Geralt a run for his money, nearly drowning him in a body of water. At the end of the day, a silver sword blade to the brain proves to be too much for the creature. Weirdly enough, according to the official Witcher bestiary, kikimoras only attack humans when it's necessary to "end their starvation." With that many limbs, it seems like killing humans would be pretty easy... but we're not vicious monsters, so what do we know?
The Real-World Folklore: Outside of sharing a name, the kikimoras of The Witcher bear little resemblance to the kikimoras of legend. Traditional kikimoras are but little "house spirits." Generally speaking, they are of the female variety and sometimes have the beak of a duck or chicken. Depending on the behavior of the homeowner and how they keep house, kikimoras can be benevolent or mischievous. How do you get rid of a traditional kikimora? You keep your dang house clean! It's easy to see why Andrzej Sapkowski took the cool name "kikimora" and completely changed the monster. House spirits don't seem like they'd stand much of a chance against Geralt of Rivia.
Striga
Photo: Netflix / Filip Gutowski / CC-BY-SA 4.0
The Witcher Version: The striga is a cursed, female human who stays out of the daylight and must feast on humans to survive. Though they look extremely deformed and weak, they are quite swift and are capable of leaping great distances that can even catch witchers off-guard. While the cure is easy to explain, it is much easier said than done: If you can keep a striga away from its hidey-hole and make it see the light of day, it will revert back to its human form. Good luck making that happen, though.
The Real-World Folklore: The strzyga of Polish folklore (by way of ancient Greece and Rome) is kind of like a vampire/owl hybrid. Like the Witcher version of the monster, it is a female demon that hunts human prey in the night. The old tales tell of humans born with two hearts and two souls. Once one of the hearts stops beating, the other continues, and the strzyga is born. While the striga from Witcher stories is certainly terrifying, there is something uniquely weird about a beast that turns into an owl-like thing that hunts humans by moonlight.
Chernobog
Photo: Netflix / Maxim Sukharev / CC-BY-SA 4.0
The Witcher Version: Unlike the vast majority of monsters in The Witcher, the chernobog didn't originate from the Conjunction of the Spheres. No, this big, black behemoth is brought into the Continent when Ciri accidentally wipes out a monolith near Cintra. With powerful wings that are somehow able to lift its hefty, thick exoskeleton to flight, the chernobog is somewhat like a smaller, flameless dragon of sorts. Thankfully, its undercarriage is pretty much unguarded and open to attack if you can manage to get a good shot off.
The Real-World Folklore: The Chernobog of Slavic folklore is less of a monster and more of a powerful god. The "black god" is the polar opposite of Belobog, the "white god." That kind of dichotomy means exactly what you'd expect it to: Chernobog is the master of death, misfortune, and destruction. He even takes domain over the winter months, just because they're cold and brutal. The Witcher's chernobog may lack the overall bombast and might of Chernobog, but the name is still pretty cool. Walt Disney and his production team knew what was up when they named the demon from Fantasia Chernabog.


text:
School board may require lobbyists to register, disclose activities
Andrew Marra
February 29, 2016 Uncategorized.
School Board members Frank Barbieri, Marcia Andrews and Debra Robinson (File photo)
People who try to win business or influence policy decisions at the Palm Beach County School District would have to register as lobbyists under a proposed new rule.
Lobbyists would have to disclose any companies that they work for, as well as any professional or personal ties to school district employees. They would also have to reveal their lobbying activities and expenses.
School district administrators say they are proposing the new policy as a way to "ensure that the public has full knowledge of who is attempting to influence the decisions that affect School Board policy."
The move comes amid a heavy lobbying campaign by the Cultural Council of Palm Beach County, which has been pushing school board members to allow millions of dollars in prospective sales tax revenue to be redirected from schools to private museums and cultural centers.
Officials are also bracing for a lobbying push by the county's charter schools, which are expected to fight for a piece of any sales tax revenue raised if a tax increase is approved this year.
But School Board Chairman Chuck Shaw said the proposal has been in the works for more than a year, part of an effort to create the same transparency already in place for lobbying in county and city governments.
"The important thing is that we know and that people have identified themselves as lobbyists," Shaw said. "Sometimes people talk to us and you're not sure where they're coming from."
The policy carves out exemptions for union officials, school-affiliated parent groups, such as PTAs, and company sales representatives.
School board members are expected to discuss the proposed new policy on Wednesday, although no formal vote is planned.
The county government and the county's 38 cities already require lobbyists to register.
Resigning WPB principal: school investigation handled "completely inappropriately"
Lofty new goal for Palm Beach County 3rd graders: Ambitious or unrealistic?


Hawker centres are a common sight in Singapore, and they have become part and parcel of life for most Singaporeans. These food centres are conveniently located near public housing estates or transport hubs to serve the residents and commuters alike. They are often said to be highly symbolic of the Singapore lifestyle and culture, some citing it as a meeting place for social interaction and family bonding.
Stalls in hawker centres sell a wide variety of food, keeping prices low to attract more customers. In fact, one can easily find hidden treasures in the form of high-quality food at these places, with some highly recommended by television programmes. Unlike food courts, these hawker centres are not air-conditioned. Over the years, efforts have been made to enhance the aesthetics and ventilation.
Today, Singapore Post has released four stamps of 80 cents each, featuring the illustrations of East Coast Lagoon Hawker Centre, Newton Food Centre, Maxwell Road Hawker Centre and the Lau Pa Sat. These stamps were jointly designed by Leon Yeo and Jean Ng.
In the 19th century, hawkers of the various ethnic groups started selling food along streets due to its low starting capital. They slowly grew in numbers, Patrons often purchase from these makeshift stalls out of convenience. The high unemployment resulted from the Second World War has led to the surge in the number of hawkers. Concerns about the hygiene of the food were raised in the late 1960s, leading to the introduction of policies to curb the growth of these street hawkers. In 1971, the government started building hawker centres to relocate these street hawkers into a more hygienic environment. By the mid 1980s, over 140 hawker centres were built across the country. In 2001, the Hawker Centres Upgrading Programme was introduced to enhance facilities. While maintaining the unique flavours of these iconic structures, improvements have been made to give them a new lease of life.
A new variety of the $10 Singapore banknote with two triangles on the reverse was spotted in early May 2011. The two triangles were similarly printed in red, beneath the word 'Sports' on the bottom left corner of the note. Currently, there are a total of five varieties for the $10 note – with no symbol, one square, two squares, one triangle and two triangles, making it the denomination with the largest number of varieties at the moment.
Another denomination which has two triangles printed on it is the $1000 note.


We are excited to announce that the GEA Fund is entering its second year in 2017/18. The Fund aims to support our membership to develop networks and undertake small research projects.
The focus of the 2017/18 Fund is to support pilot work (transcription, travel costs, workshops to bring potential collaborators together) that can feed into the development of a larger research bid.


text:
Q: I want to compare the data I have in csv file to the data which is in ldap produciton server I want to compare the data I have in csv file to the data which is in ldap produciton server.
There are thousands of users data in csv file and i want to compare the data with the data in production server.
Let's suppose I have user ID xtz12345 in the csv file with uid number 123456. Now I want to cross check the uidNumber of the same user ID xtz12345 in the production server.
Is there any way I can automate this? There are thousands of UserID to be checked and if i do it manually it probably gonna take a lot of time. Can anyone suggest what should I do?

A: Powershell script is good start place.
import activedirectory module (assuming Windows ADdownload and install RSAT tools, here) in Powershell to fetch information from AD, example
use import-csv in powershell to read csv values. Now, compare first with second. example
Happy to help


text:
<!doctype html>

	<title>HCI Project Portfolio</title>
	<meta charset="utf-8">
	<meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1.0">
	<link href="../css/bootstrap.min.css" rel="stylesheet">
	<link href="../css/bootstrap-theme.min.css" rel="stylesheet">
	<link href="../css/introHCI.css" rel="stylesheet">

Disaster Proof

New Game

What is your name?

			Shelter

			Medic

			Food

			Wayfinder

			Multitool

			Back


I've went through all the settings, tweaked the max file size and everything and I can't fix the low res sending but the main issue is that every time I try to receive a mms it says "downloading"and then after a short while I get a notification saying it failed and that my apn settings are wrong so I've tried selecting from the list "att 4g hspa+" and I've also tried manually putting in the apn info and I know all the apn settings are correct because I work at an att store, so it's not like I'm illiterate. So can someone help me?*I've email handcent support 5 separate times with my inquiry and have not gotten a response so if someone can help me fix my issue or point me in the direction of a similar app that isn't chomp or go sms.
try using Textra. Way better than handcent.
Two: Don't mess with the max file size for MMS. That will usually always cause problems.
HTC One mini camera, how can I get this working?
Notification Issue after rooting my device, what should I do?