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Special Collection: The Afrehealth-MEPI Partnership and Global Health Education in Africa
Equitable Access to Health Professional Training in Uganda: A Cross Sectional Study
M. Galukande ,
Department of Surgery, Makerere University, College of Health Sciences, Kampala, UG
S. Maling,
Department of Psychiatry, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, UG
J. Kabakyenga,
Maternal Newborn and Child Health Institute, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, UG
J. Nshaho,
School of Postgraduate Training and Research, Kampala International University, Western Campus, Ishaka, UG
H. Oboke,
Department of Psychiatry, Gulu University, Gulu, UG
B. Oonge,
Faculty of Clinical Medicine, Kampala International University, Western Campus, Ishaka, UG
H. Muyenje,
Information Translation Unit, Makerere University, College of Health Sciences, Kampala, UG
G. Katumba-Sentongo,
Registrar Department, Uganda Medical and Dental Practitioners Council, Kampala, UG
H. Mayanja-Kizza,
Department of Medicine, Makerere University, College of Health Sciences, Kampala, UG
N. K. Sewankambo
Objective: We set out to assess inequalities to access health professional education, and the impact of an education improvement program supported by MEPI (Medical Education Partnership Initiative). Inequalities in the higher education system in sub-Saharan Africa remain despite some transformative policies and affirmative action.
Methods: We reviewed enrollment data from four universities for the period 2001–2014 for various health professional training programs, and conducted group discussions through an iterative process with selected stakeholders, and including a group of education experts. Two time periods, 2001–2010 and 2011–2014, were considered. In 2010–11, the MEPI education program began. Gender ratios, regional representation, secondary schools, and the number of admissions by university and year were analysed. We used SPSS version 17 software to analyse these data with level of significance p < 0.05. We collated qualitative data along predetermined and emerging themes.
Results: The overall male-to-female ratio among the student population was 2.3:1. In total, there were 7,023 admissions, 4,403 between 2001–2010 (440 per annum) and 2,620 between 2011–2014 (655 per annum) with p = 0.018. There were no significant increases in admissions in the central and western regions over the two time periods, 1,708 to 849 and 1,113 to 867 respectively, both p = 0.713 and p = 0.253. We propose improving the university admission criteria and increasing enrollment to health professions training schools.
Conclusion: There were significant inequalities for higher education training in Uganda by gender, regional representation and school attended. Modifying the admission criteria and increasing enrollment may reduce these inequalities.
How to Cite: Galukande, M., Maling, S., Kabakyenga, J., Nshaho, J., Oboke, H., Oonge, B., Muyenje, H., Katumba-Sentongo, G., Mayanja-Kizza, H. and Sewankambo, N.K., 2018. Equitable Access to Health Professional Training in Uganda: A Cross Sectional Study. Annals of Global Health, 84(1), pp.91–99. DOI: http://doi.org/10.29024/aogh.7
Published on 30 Apr 2018
Admissions to medical schools in Uganda and the African region are reported to be predominantly taken up by students from urban areas and from mostly wealthy families [1, 2]. This raises questions about equitable access to training opportunities in the health science domain. Equality aims to ensure that everyone gets the same things in order to enjoy full, healthy lives. Equity, like equality, aims to promote fairness and justice, but it can only work if everyone starts from the same place and needs the same things; equity ensures that disadvantages are offset. The eventual employment and deployment of health professionals in underserved areas is likely to be affected by where the graduates trained and by their backgrounds and/or whether they originate from rural, urban, wealthy or disadvantaged families [2, 3]. The factors considered before accepting for rural deployment by graduates are factors that affect the quality of life of these graduates in underserved rural areas (good quality schools for children, presence of electricity, running water, access to the internet, television, brain drain, etc.) [4].
The strategies that may improve rural deployment include, but are not limited to, centrally managed postings by the Ministry of Health [5, 6]. In addition, the criteria for admissions to medical schools should not be based entirely on academic grades but may also be quota based to achieve an appropriate balance between students from rural and urban backgrounds. There may be complexities in determining the student's place of origin or background. For example, students may study in rural schools, which are not necessarily poor schools, yet reside in urban centers, and vice versa.
Overview of higher education in Uganda
Uganda's secondary education system is composed of two levels of the Ordinary and Advanced. It follows the education system set up by its former colonial masters, the United Kingdom. Lower secondary (ordinary) consists of four years of schooling, at the end of which students undertake ordinary-level exams (O-level) in at least eight subjects with a maximum of 10. Upper secondary (advanced) consists of two years of schooling, at the end of which students sit Advanced-level exams (A-level) in at least three principal subjects [2, 7]. Of the 2,564 secondary schools in Uganda, 1,004 are government owned and 1,560 privately owned. Over the past decade, efforts have been made to improve equitable access at secondary school level. For example, these efforts include preferentially equipping predominantly girls' schools, recruiting teachers and equipping laboratories for rural schools, as well as increasing teacher wages and work conditions [8].
Although 60,000 to 70,000 students in Uganda leave secondary school each year and qualify to go on to higher education, only 35% of them (about 25,000) are able to find places in the few institutions of higher learning [9, 10]. As of 2012, Makerere University in Kampala hosted about 95% of the total student population in Uganda's universities. The remaining students were distributed among five public universities, 27 private universities and a smaller proportion of non-university institutions. The government in 2014 sponsored over 4,000 students offering different courses in public universities. There is no data in the literature stating the proportion of health professions' trainees taken by Makerere University compared to the rest. The majority (80%) of Uganda's population and patients reside in rural areas. However, the majority of health workers (especially graduates) are based in urban areas, thus contributing to the rural-urban imbalance in health service delivery and the subsequent unfavorable health outcomes [11, 12, 13]. Uganda demographic data suggests the majority of secondary schools that succeed in having many of their students enroll for health professions training are expensive, are found in urban areas and are mostly afforded by children from wealthier families. The rural-based primary and secondary schools provide lower quality education; they are fairly affordable and mostly enroll students from poorer families [11]. The students in rural schools score poorer academic grades and may not be admissible to highly competitive health professional courses. To address this challenge there have been increasing calls for changes in the admissions policy [8, 14]. However, policymakers have lacked well-documented evidence stretching over several years confirming the existence of this inequity and its magnitude.
The purpose of this study therefore was to document the existence of inequalities in student admissions, propose corrective strategies, and provide baseline data prior to implementation of corrective interventions.
A mixed-method, qualitative and quantitative descriptive study.
Setting and sampling
This study included the Medical Education for Equitable Services to all Ugandans (MESAU) consortium schools at Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Gulu University, Mbarara University of Science and Technology and Kampala International University (KIU) in Uganda. Since KIU is a private University in the MESAU consortium it did not utilize the Public Universities Joint Admissions Board (PUJAB). It therefore utilizes its own admission criteria though it also based on academic grades and it has a diploma track and mature entry tracks. The MESAU consortium was supported by a Medical Education Partnership Initiative (MEPI) grant meant to improve training of Health workers (quantity and quality) [9].
We collected information available from the admission records of all the universities in the consortium spanning fourteen years (2001 to 2014). Qualitative data were collected from various stakeholders (cross-sectional design). We generated a list of key officials representing relevant institutions which directly related to higher education training and employment for health professionals in Uganda, including the Ministries of Education and Sports, Health, and Public Service. In addition, we included the deans and academic registrars of the four universities and representatives from the different professional councils: Medical and Dental, Allied Professions and Nursing and Pharmacy Councils. We also included student representatives from the five universities and some prominent private practitioners in the Health Sector.
For the quantitative component, a pre-coded questionnaire was used to extract data from student admission logs and files availed by the Joint Admissions Board (JAB) for undergraduate students enrolled in health professional programs in Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Nursing, Dental Laboratory, Language and Speech Therapy, Radiography, Public Health Nursing and Environmental Health. Variables included: age, gender, and high-school district and region of origin. In the qualitative study component an interactive process was engaged in with the invited stakeholders and a working group of senior members from the academia (all universities represented). The facilitators introduced the purpose of the meeting. We randomly distributed participants to five groups of 10–12 members each. We assigned guide questions (Box 1) that were discussed in each group. After an hour and a half of discussions, we convened a plenary and each of the group presented a summary of their discussions. All the presentations and discussions were recorded with the help of two rapporteurs. At the end of the session we agreed on key points and strategies. We compiled the final framework document after engaging in several meetings and email exchanges over a period of several weeks to reflect the concepts and ideas in the discussions.
Quantitative data were entered and analyzed using SPSS version 17, level of significance was p < 0.05. Data from a 14-year period (2001–2014) from four universities were analyzed. Data for international students were excluded.
Ethical consideration
The Makerere University School of Medicine Ethics and Research Committee approved this study (REC REF No. 2013-057).
In all, 7,023 students were admitted to the health professional training programs available (see list in Methods above). Overall male-to-female ratio was 2.3:1; the highest was with Gulu University (5.6:1; see Table 1). There was a significant increase in enrollment over the two time periods (p = 0.018; see Table 1).
Representation by Gender, Region, and District, Admissions Data for the Two Periods, 2001–2010 and 2011–2014, and Uganda, 2001–2014.
Gender M:F 1.9:1 1.8:1 5.6:1 2.4:1
Region Total
Central 1132 416 50 110 849
Western 515 462 57 79 867
Eastern 483 192 27 34 846
Northern 381 211 208 43 475
2001–2010 1.9:1 1.8:1 5.6:1 2.4:1
2011–2014 2:1 2.2:1 3:1 2.4:1
Variance ↑ ↑ ↓ –
Top schools enrollment for universities
2001–2010 1055 448 29 34 156.6
2011–2014 344 292 27 48 186.3
p-value 0.731 0.409 0.186 0.038
Regional representation of students enrolled to universities in MEPI consortium
Period Central Western Eastern Nortdern Total
No. % No. % No. % No. %
2001–2010 1708 38.8 1113 25.3 736 16.7 846 19.2 4403
2011–2014 849 32.4 867 33.1 846 16.4 475 18.1 2620
P-value <0.713 0.253 0.063 0.567 0.018
Regional representation
Most students admitted were from the Central region of the country; the capital city, (Kampala), Wakiso and Mukono districts. Between 2001–2010, 39% (1,708 out of 4,403) of admissions were from central region compared to 849 out of 2,620 (32.4%) in 2011–2014 (p = 0.713), in the same region.
Table 2 and Figure 1 shows admissions over the study period for all the four universities.
University Admission Trend of Health Professional Students by Year, Uganda, 2001–2014.
Makerere† 258 249 226 210 294 269 264 265 277 391 233 295 262 243
MUST* 84 86 111 101 137 170 135 168 165 173 312 300 257 289
Gulu++ – – – 50 54 59 66 46 63 – 2 17 40 101
KIU – – – – – – 53 80 63 63 112 64 130 214
Totals 342 335 337 361 485 498 518 559 568 627 659 676 689 847
† Admissions for 11 Program (MBChB, Pharmacy, Dentistry, Nursing, Radiography, Language and Speech Therapy, Dental Technology, Public Health Nursing).
* Admissions for 3 Program (MBChB, Pharmacy and Nursing).
++ Admission for 1 Program (MBChB).
Graph Showing Universities' Medical Education Enrollment Trends 2001–2014, Uganda.
Admissions from the top 10 schools (Table 3)
Ten secondary schools out of 2,564 (0.4%) contributed 36% (1,566 out of 4,403) of all admissions in 2001–2010 period (Table 3). All but one school (no. 6) are located in the central region of the country, where 63% (984/1566) of all student admissions were from five schools 1–5 (Table 3). Makerere University alone enrolled 1,055 out of 1,566 (67%) of the total admissions for the period 2001–2010. The same 10 schools enrolled 711 out of 2,620 (27%) students for the period 2011–2014. And Makerere University enrolled 344 out of 711 (48%) of admissions.
Admissions from the 10 Top Secondary Schools by Number of Admissions, Uganda, 2001–2014.
Total No.
1. Uganda Martyrs, Namugongo 215 37 121 69 9 7 3 6 467 20.5
2. Kings College Buddo 124 31 35 25 4 2 9 2 232 10.2
3. St. Mary's Kisubi 113 24 40 39 6 0 0 5 227 10.0
4. St. Mary Namagunga 132 37 18 11 1 3 2 0 204 9.0
5. Gayaza High School 121 34 29 19 2 2 0 4 211 9.3
6. Ntare School 63 3 86 38 0 3 0 6 199 8.7
7. Namilyango College School 78 13 42 12 5 4 3 7 164 7.2
8. Makerere College School 77 25 24 9 2 1 10 4 152 6.7
9. St. Mary's Kitende 66 117 34 45 0 3 5 6 276 12.0
10. Kibuli Secondary School 66 23 19 25 0 2 2 8 145 6.4
Total 1,055 344 448 292 29 27 34 48 2277
Group discussions deliberations outputs
Disparities in admissions and access to health professional education in Uganda was stated by the discussion groups to be a major issue, and the reasons for its occurrence were identified as socio-economic, geographical and policy-driven (see Box 1). Other reasons included lack of sufficient household income to afford the good schools as well as other school requirements in both primary and secondary. The schools where the poor or disadvantaged have access have limited resources to run science laboratories and cannot attract and sustain experienced and well-trained teachers who demand higher wages. Career guidance is not consistently or reliably available to most students, especially in ill-equipped and under resourced schools. The rural poor who cannot access good schools are unlikely to attain high enough school academic grades to gain access to tertiary education.
The other (alternative) university entry tracks for diploma holders or mature entry have limited places, yet they may offer an opportunity for the less advantaged who would otherwise not access health professional training (HPT) or further HPT. There were calls to change strategies aimed at enhancing equity in enrollment and changing admission criteria, including introducing entry examinations among others (see Box 1). Entry examinations would consider a wide criterion other than only grades.
What should be changed
The criteria for admission should be altered in order to improve the opportunity for access; this may be easier if the available places for enrollment are increased. This has a double benefit as it increases training opportunities and improves possibility of more health workers. Since career guidance may be lacking and parents may pressure students into joining programs they have no passion for, it may be important that entry examinations (screening mechanisms) are put in place to check or test those that may not be a fit for HPT. The disadvantaged who may never have a chance to score high grades (not because they do not have the potential) should be given an opportunity for bridging courses as is done elsewhere. These bridging courses help fulfill the minimum requirements set by the training institutions. Selecting applicants outside the normally used grade-based system may face resistance. These challenges may be mitigated by involving communities e.g. to second students who should be admitted. Mechanisms on how to do this could be discussed at the community level as well as understanding the experiences gained elsewhere like in the Philippines [20].
How to manage the changes
The participants recommended that gathering more data to support and inform advocacy was necessary. Given the limited resources at all HPT institutions, as well as the individuals or groups that may oppose these changes, it is wise to do adequate planning and advocacy. To identify and sensitize all the major and influential stakeholders and also start small. Selecting and encouraging champions of this cause is important. A call for action in form of a policy brief was also recommended.
At Makerere University and in other public medical schools an extra 1.5 points were awarded to female applicants to improve their chances of joining university education. A district quota system was introduced by the government in 2004 to enable outstanding students from less privileged schools districts to acquire University education. Special schemes like talent in sports and persons with disabilities are also considered.
We assessed the pattern of admissions to Uganda's medical training institutions of higher learning. We found that the amount of student enrollment overall had increased over the 14 year period. We found that there are inequalities at three levels: gender, geographical region (of origin) and secondary schools attended. Equity is considered as treating everyone the same way. Equality aims to promote fairness but it can only work if everyone starts from the same place and needs the same help. Inequality in accessing HPE is a phenomenon that is seen in sub-Saharan Africa and middle-income countries elsewhere [2, 3]. In this study females had significantly less access than males. The likelihood of joining HPE was higher if one attended any of the top 10 schools located in central Uganda. These schools contributed a third of all admissions yet they represented only 0.4% of the 2,564 secondary schools in the country. In all, at least 7,000 students were admitted over a fourteen year period, yet Uganda, with close to 37 million people, has less than 5,500 registered practicing doctors, specialists and generalists combined [15]. When access to training is skewed to the elite and well-to-do, upon graduation the (graduates) are reluctant to go, stay and work in underserved and difficult to reach areas. This worsens the divide between the rich(mostly in the cities) and the rural poor, contributing to poor health outcomes [10, 16].
Box 1: Perspectives from Stakeholders for Correcting Admission Inequalities in Medical Schools in Uganda, 2013.
Why there are inequalities (of Gender, Region of Origin, School attended)?
Low household incomes
Rural schools have limited resources such as laboratories, trained teachers
Poor or absent career guidance
Using grades only admission criteria
Few training institutions and limited number of places
Limited slots for diploma holders
Quota system not working for science based courses
What should we change:
Admission criteria; create parallel entry tracks for the disadvantaged
Increase enrollment
Introduce entry exams/aptitude tests
Introduce bridging programs for the disadvantaged to match the high achievers
Communities to participate in selection of entries via the special/parallel track
Training institutions to relocate or increase training in community/rural sites
Introduce credit transfer system
Introduce multiple entry and exit routes and intermediate awards
Career guidance for students in high school
How do we manage the change (strategies):
Incremental change; 'low hanging fruits'
Sensitization of stakeholders: Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education and Sports, Uganda National Council of Science & Technology, Professional bodies (Uganda Medical Association, Nursing council, Pharmacists Council, Dental Council, Allied Professionals), School head teachers
Advocacy for policy change (policy briefs, create translational fora)
Individual schools to engage their University Senates and Councils
Gather more supporting data e.g. Socio economic status of parents, work station deployment trends
Bottlenecks to access
For the most part student admissions and are directly admitted from high school, and are largely based on academic scores. To achieve high enough grades a candidate should have studied in a highly resourced secondary school. Attendance at any of these schools requires that the parents or guardians are able to pay the required school fees and buy scholastic materials that may not be provided at the school. To study at a school good enough to facilitate passing examinations with high enough grades to be admitted to the few, better institutions of higher learning is a daunting task for an average Ugandan citizen. Earlier on in primary schools, the lack of or inadequate food at school leads to increased school drop outs, which is common in rural schools. Entry into health professional training institutions may be via diploma and mature entry tracks. Diplomas holders (or the equivalent) access admission through the diploma track. Mature age is defined as at least 25 years of age, and a mature entrant must pass an entrance examination; however, only those with the highest scores are admitted.
These diploma holders are professionals in a health related field such as physician assistants (clinical officers) or bachelorette nurses. The latter has fewer places and therefore fierce competition.
What should change
The Joint Admission Board (JAB), a body in charge of university admissions, largely uses high school grades, to determine who gets admitted for university education. Using grades is objective, transparent and easy to manage. There have been efforts to improve or modify these criteria; a clear example was an attempt to deal with gender disparities by introducing an affirmative action policy. In the case of Makerere University, an extra 1.5 points were awarded to female applicants [17, 18, 19]. This seemed to improve access, as the ratio of male: female improved in favour of female students, but these are downstream measures. Upstream measures such as improving access at secondary level for science subjects for the girls and rural children need to be consolidated.
There is anecdotal information that some parents force their children to take up courses or careers that their children are not interested in, and upon graduation they hand over the degree certificates to their parents and go off to embark on careers of their interest (non-medical careers in this case), so providing a mechanism to filter those without interest in the medical profession would be helpful. The screening should detect a willingness to serve the disadvantaged. This could be done by introducing entry exams where these aspects can be assessed. An innovative approach to include the voice of underserved communities in deciding who among the applicants should be seconded for training was suggested in the group discussions. These could be high school students who come from these communities or health workers already working in those communities but wishing to upgrade.
How to manage the change
In this paper, we further highlight the perspectives of a group of stakeholders on how these changes of admission criteria could be tackled (Box 1). Two entry tracks were proposed. First, the voice of underserved communities in selecting trainees who would be given priority. Disadvantaged communities should be identified and offered a number of places which they should fill until their health worker ratio improves. Second, an increment of places for high academic achievers was proposed as well as establishing the minimum requirements of admission to University. Other considerations should be made such as introducing bridging (remedial) courses. The idea of communities participating in the selection of trainers was novel and is already being used in the Philippines [20]. It may involve already existing platforms, e.g. district health service committees and local councils. This may ensure that whoever is selected will go back to that community to serve as a way to give back.
Small, incremental changes were proposed. This is a practical approach cognizant of the fact that major changes will require large resources like more teachers, space and materials. The introduction of entry examinations or aptitude tests is meant to screen for genuine intention and calling to practice medicine, as opposed to seeking only prestige and money. Institutions in many countries have practiced this approach. These changes could be coupled with systematic career guidance sessions in schools so that students make fairly informed choices.
Bridging courses are aimed at assessing skill and strengthening a candidate's medical foundation, especially for those whose grades were below the minimum required. This can also be used to build on non-academic requirements like communication, use of technology and problem solving skills. Bridging programs may be helpful for those who may not have attained the academic grades and may not be very fluent in the language of instruction (English). Similar programs have been carried out in the Republic of South Africa to overcome racial segregation/apartheid effects [21].
The introduction of credit transfer systems allows practicing professionals to gain access without having to repeat some courses done during prior training. Various methods to sensitize all stakeholders were suggested including policy briefs, scientific publications and gathering more supporting data.
These are academic and nonacademic requirements applicants are expected to have. The academic requirements are subjects completed with minimum grades achieved. Disadvantaged students may be assisted in the catch-up phase by taking them through bridging programs. They are then subjected to entry tests prior to enrollment in the desired health professional program of study. The non-academic requirements are related to what the practice of medicine demands, such as time management, teamwork, and decision-making. These are part of the professionalism expected of trainees by the profession and the community they will serve.
Although wide ranges of specialty options now exist after qualification, nevertheless making such career choices in medicine and related disciplines, particularly at a young age, is daunting for many. The training is mostly extensive, requires dedication and lifelong learning. Career guidance is therefore critical to avoid non-completion or abandonment of the profession after completing the arduous training and obtaining a qualification or soon after.
The JAB records had missing data; for example, we were not able to record parental occupation (a proxy to socio-economic status). We inadvertently did not include school head teachers among the group discussions (stakeholders) thus their views were missed. It is possible that some of the responses regarding student origin may not have been truthful as some students raised in cities may have provided misleading information that they come from disadvantaged communities.
There were significant inequalities for higher education training in Uganda, by gender, regional representation and school attended. Modifying the admission criteria and increasing enrollment may reduce on these inequalities.
JAB Joint Admissions Board
MESAU Medical Education for Equitable Services to all Ugandans
MEPI Medical Education partnership Initiative
KIU Kampala International University
HPE Health Professional Education
PUJAB Public University Joint Admissions Board
The PUJAB office, all stakeholders that attended the discussion meetings and contributed. This work was made possible by the Medical Education for Equitable Services to All Ugandans a Medical Education Partnership Initiative grant number 5R24TW008886 from the Office of Global AIDS Coordinator and the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services, Health Resources and Services Administration and National Institutes of Health. Its contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of the US government.
The authors have no competing interests to declare.
GM and SNK originated the concept. GM, MS, OH, NI, KJ, MH, KS, OB participated in data collection. All authors performed critical reviews for intellectual content and approval of the final manuscript content.
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Galukande, M., Maling, S., Kabakyenga, J., Nshaho, J., Oboke, H., Oonge, B., Muyenje, H., Katumba-Sentongo, G., Mayanja-Kizza, H. and Sewankambo, N.K., 2018. Equitable Access to Health Professional Training in Uganda: A Cross Sectional Study. Annals of Global Health, 84(1), pp.91–99. DOI: http://doi.org/10.29024/aogh.7
Galukande M, Maling S, Kabakyenga J, Nshaho J, Oboke H, Oonge B, et al.. Equitable Access to Health Professional Training in Uganda: A Cross Sectional Study. Annals of Global Health. 2018;84(1):91–9. DOI: http://doi.org/10.29024/aogh.7
Galukande, M., Maling, S., Kabakyenga, J., Nshaho, J., Oboke, H., Oonge, B., … Sewankambo, N. K. (2018). Equitable Access to Health Professional Training in Uganda: A Cross Sectional Study. Annals of Global Health, 84(1), 91–99. DOI: http://doi.org/10.29024/aogh.7
Galukande M and others, 'Equitable Access to Health Professional Training in Uganda: A Cross Sectional Study' (2018) 84 Annals of Global Health 91 DOI: http://doi.org/10.29024/aogh.7
Galukande, M., S. Maling, J. Kabakyenga, J. Nshaho, H. Oboke, B. Oonge, H. Muyenje, G. Katumba-Sentongo, H. Mayanja-Kizza, and N. K. Sewankambo. 2018. "Equitable Access to Health Professional Training in Uganda: A Cross Sectional Study". Annals of Global Health 84 (1): 91–99. DOI: http://doi.org/10.29024/aogh.7
Galukande, M., S. Maling, J. Kabakyenga, J. Nshaho, H. Oboke, B. Oonge, H. Muyenje, G. Katumba-Sentongo, H. Mayanja-Kizza, and N. K. Sewankambo. "Equitable Access to Health Professional Training in Uganda: A Cross Sectional Study". Annals of Global Health 84, no. 1 (2018): 91–99. DOI: http://doi.org/10.29024/aogh.7
Galukande, M., et al.. "Equitable Access to Health Professional Training in Uganda: A Cross Sectional Study". Annals of Global Health, vol. 84, no. 1, 2018, pp. 91–99. DOI: http://doi.org/10.29024/aogh.7
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Dining room will not complete without dining chair and seagrass dining chairs becomes unique choice which can improve the look as well as comfort in the dining area. Dining chair can be made from various materials including wood, metal, and even plastic which is combined with various fabric materials for instance. However, by choosing the natural material such as sea grass for dining chair, it is sure that they will be able to improve the look and boost the comfort for enjoying more romantic dining experience.
People maybe think that the dining chair which is made from sea grass usually will have the classical style. It is true that this material actually will be able to make great classical furniture which has more traditional touch but we can make sure that the dining chair made from sea grass can also be great addition for modern minimalist home because it can also be made into dining chair or other types of furniture which has modern touch.
The furniture which is made from this material surely is comfortable and beautiful because it is designed and woven by hands. It usually comes in natural color so it can be combined easily with any furniture. However, for ensuring that it can last long, tender loving care as well as attention is necessary although it is already stain resistant.
Pictures of adele collection seagrass dining chair with woven seagrass dining chairs with cushions for seagrass dining chairs is created to be the inspiration of for you. This image was published on November 12, 2018 and published by admin this is fall into the category Furniture, the size of image is 902 x 600 and this post has 16 related images. If you have any questions please Contact page. Hope it could inspire you, our beloved reader in mytonix.com, back to article please click Seagrass Dining Chairs for Romantic Dining Room.


Girls' Basketball: Uniform turn-in is Tuesday, February 23 right after school in the locker room. All freshmen, sophomores, and varsity players need bring in uniforms, shooting shirts, school-issued travel gear, and bags. Locks will also be collected, so please plan accordingly.


Cllr Aaron Shotton, leader of the official Labour opposition on Flintshire County Council, has accused the ruling coalition of being spendthrifts.
He claims the authority is shelling out £100,000 on exclusive car parking for councillors and on a new planning committee chamber.
rooms and developing their own private car park at County Hall.
to pile up with litter as long as they have exclusive parking and plush surroundings when they hold meetings.
He said: "Improving parking facilities has been an on-going scheme.
"We have reduced the amount of grassed area in front of County Hall to provide spaces for chief officers and designated senior councillors, which in turn allows us more spaces in the centre for all councillors.
"As far as the new planning committee room is concerned, that will provide better facilities for the public attending meetings.


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Configuration Officer
Remuneration: $ $80,669 - $92,150 (plus super) per annum
Location: Rockingham
$80,669 - $92,150 (plus super)
As the Configuration Officer, you will provide configuration knowledge to support technical and engineering activities and ensure quality and compliance with appropriate delegations commensurate with relevant legislative, policy and regulatory frameworks. Engage with stakeholders, investigate, report, develop, evaluate, advise, and implement policies, processes, procedures, practice and manage resources specific to assurance and data specifications to support Defence capability.
You will be accountable under broad direction to perform and achieve complex technical configuration work and accountable to ensure you have knowledge of and compliance with legislative frameworks, government decision-making and Defence's mission and policy requirements. You will be accountable for exercising assigned technical authorities and any TRA delegations.
You will work independently with reasonable autonomy and accountability for the achievement of outcomes of your work. You will exercise both initiative and judgement in the interpretation of policy and in the application of practices and procedures, and provide detailed configuration technical advice in relation to complex work and contribute to strategic planning, program and project management and policy development.
Tasks include, but are not limited to:
Demonstrated ability to assess and review technical packages and provide recommendations for continuous improvement and implement corrective actions;
Demonstrated understanding of the main attributes and limitations of the Configuration and Maintenance Management tools to support configuration management processes including fitted equipment management, work & resource management, condition/performance monitoring, decision support tools;
Demonstrate appropriate use of information systems in delivering asset lifecycle outputs;
Demonstrated understanding of basic Configuration Management concepts and their application;
Understands how the asset management strategy has been used to determine what asset knowledge is needed and can explain the linkage; and
Demonstrated understanding of the processes required to manage documentary information collection, updating, storage and dissemination, data collection, reporting tools and techniques. Can prepare reports and can recognise anomalies in reported data.
About our Team:
The Collins Submarine Program within CASG is responsible for the maintenance and programmed upgrade of Australia's Collins Class submarines. The Program works in partnership with the Royal Australian Navy and Industry to deliver the strategic submarine capability the strategic submarine capability to the nation.
Configuration management is a process for establishing and maintaining consistency of a product's performance, functional, and physical attributes with its requirements, design, and operational information through management of baselines and change control. The Collins Class Configuration Management Plan is managed and authorised by the Collins Authorised Material Seaworthiness Delivery Organisation and underpins the processes and principles by which Configuration Management will be applied across the submarine community, applied by all organisations conducting design, maintenance, validation, verification or design assurance across the submarine community.
You will have access to generous and attractive working conditions as an Australian Public Servant in Defence. Working for Defence will support you in balancing work life with family and other priorities. You can access a variety of flexible working arrangements, including part-time work, occasionally working from home and working hours that aren't always nine to five.
Information on Defence employees' working conditions, including an attractive remuneration package that may respond to industry variations and a generous superannuation contribution (15.4%), can be sourced from the Defence Enterprise Agreement.
If you require further information please email build.the.future@defence.gov.au.
As the ideal candidate, you will be a motivated Configuration Officer, responsible for understanding the configuration at acceptance into service of each submarine, the authorised changes from that acceptance configuration and the ability to document these changes with rigorous control. You will have the capacity to conduct site work on Submarines as required.
You will have sound decision making and judgement skills, excellent communication and stakeholder engagement including the ability to communicate with influence.
You will be accountable to set work priorities, providing clear and consistent communication, manage workflow and resources, motivate team members, and actively lead group activities whilst working in busy Defence environment. You may supervise staff, set work priorities, manage workflows and exercise the associated people and financial responsibilities to achieve work unit outcomes.
You will build and sustain positive relationships with team members, actively participate in teamwork and motivate and mentor developing technicians, tailoring communication style and language to communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
You will be required to identify, anticipate, and respond to stakeholders' needs and expectations to achieve Defence outcomes.
You will be able to demonstrate and apply your knowledge and experience to develop and review technical packages, identify risks and uncertainties and take these into account in planning, decision making and priority setting.
You will be accountable to contribute towards ongoing self-improvement and professional development. The successful candidate may be required to travel interstate or overseas.
Application Closing Date: Friday 07 August, 2020
For further information please review the job information pack, reference CASG/03080/20 on www.defence.gov.au/apscareers.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


An innovative logo is popularly considered as the face of any company or business. Yes, it is true! But restricting it to be just the face of the company would be underestimating its vast potential.
A well designed innovative logo apart from being the identity of the company also depicts the era or the time in which it is designed.
If you are a budding marketer looking to make a mark then, recognizing logo design trend is a very crucial aspect in choosing the right logo design style. These current logo design style will make your business look fresh and highly relevant.
2018 has already arrived and you shouldn't waste any of your time in not analyzing the innovative logo design trends for this year.
Professional designers from logo design services india insist that a logo design in this competitive time must not be create keeping the aesthetics of pleasing design but it should also be designed in a way that it can be used at various context in which the design can be applied. Using logo on posters, business cards, advertisements are simple few of the places where a logo is used. In 2018 make sure to keep your focus on increased awareness to context in logo design.
One of the example of awareness to the context can be seen from logo design made for Kristin Jarmund architect which uses abbreviation "KJ-A". This abbreviation allows to adapt in various layout upon photographic backgrounds.
The logo easily accomodate to the concept of architecture both metaphorically and visually.
Architectural design logo in resurgence in popularity of clever and innovative ways. Physical space has always had an important variable in creating a brand identity. In this competitive digital world, designers are finding ways not only to capture the look of architectural landmarks but also use the concept behind the physical manifestations of the brand through visual interpretation.
Fun is that emotion which makes everything really saleable. Fun has always been part of the designing process, but the current state of economic uncertainties can inspire people to combat the negative aspects in the most funniest designs ever made. Fun is irresistible and it comes in many forms such as bright colour, good vibes, and also from cute character choice. In 2018, we can expect more number of fun logos making it really big.
There are many ways fun logo can be created such as using joyful custom typographic characters or introducing the character with some really fun element.
The usage of metaphors are certainly not new in the world of logo design. However, the increase of curiosity and creative exploration in the design community which has made metaphors to be the focal point of creative exploration. Designers from multimedia design services suggest that in 2018, it can be expected that designers will give even more emphasis on pushing metaphors to its extreme with a thoughtful concept that gives a logo more depth than visual appeal.
Typography has been a concept which has been under the subject of lots of experimentation. Either it be developing new typographic shapes to modification of pre existing typefaces using photographic techniques. This year we can expect more experimentation in typography with unique concept and new realization of how pre existing technology can apply in designing.
Grids are the backbone of graphic designing. It has the power to portray logic, theory, control and perfection. In a sense, this grid based logo trend can never end. Based on the earlier grid based designs, we can expect some new kind of experimentation in the grid design logo.
For example, in the MOAA logo, the lines in the typographic letter of the MOAA logo becomes the grid in itself or the grid in ABCraft logo which speaks to how fundamental the brand name and value is. In 2018, grid is expected to appear in a new and exciting way.
Layering and masking pattern are one of the most sophisticated techniques that uses various patterns to reveal or contain additional content within shapes. These are usually subtle and can easily be under the radar.
This technique of logo has a good room of experimentation in abstract and conceptual approach and in 2018 we can expect even more novel way of experimentation.
Designers are enhancing their skills with classic typefaces of the past years which includes precise attention to the basic parameter of logo typography such as typeface choice, kerning and letter spacing.
But it should be kept in mind that the choice of typeface should be made very carefully. Its character shape and aspects of modernism can help in bringing the brand into current times. The typeface is really beautiful in its own and when treated with a careful eye result in a powerful logo and monotype that essays classic simplicity.
Typography isn't the only concept of logo design receiving simplification these days. The actual shapes used in logo with an increased focus on minimal geometry created with a less in more attitude. This kind of logo design have the advantage of style such as branding versatility, easy readability and instant impact. This makes it clear that we can expect even more in 2018.
2018 looks really promising for new trend in logo design. We can find both experimental typography and a return to basic concepts as well. We can expect to see simple grids and geometry as well as complex applications and layering of colour pattern. This year creative boundaries will be pushed and the designers will use their creative imagination to bring out amazing and innovative logo designs.


[THE INVESTOR] LG Display has started executing its 1 trillion won ($850 million) investment into Korean plants to beef up production of organic light-emitting diode panels for TVs and smartphones.
The display-making unit of LG Group is also ordering new equipment from local suppliers, the Electronic Times reported on June 17.
According to the report, the company is replacing the production line for liquid-crystal displays at its P8 plant in Paju, Gyeonggi Province, with those for larger OLED panels for TVs.
With the planned production of an additional 25,000 panels per month, LG's OLED production capacity for TVs is expected to surge to some 60,000 units per month this year, almost double last year.
An LG Display spokesperson denied any drastic reduction in the company's current LCD production which is facing increasing challenges from Chinese rivals.
"LCD production will be transferred to our Chinese plant in Guangzhou. There will be no drastic change in our total production volume," he said.
The report said the company recently started investment worth 310 billion won into flexible OLEDs, under its total 1.05 trillion won investment plan announced last year.
The production capacity of its E5 plant is expected to surge to some 7,500 units per month.
The company is also considering injecting another 150 billion won into OLED lighting.
"We have invested some 3 to 4 trillion won every year. We will continue new investments to beef up OLED production," an LG display spokesperson told The Investor.


Reminder that this Saturday with Coach Steph is the first Saturday of our new schedule.
8:30am Partner WOD followed by a 9:30am Team WOD.
We've had a number of questions about what a team WOD is. The team WOD will be similar to a partner WOD but with the opportunity to train with more people. Some days it could be teams of 4, some days it could be teams of 2 or 3, and some days it could even be teams of 6. You'll find out each class depending on the workout, what the team number will be. Team training is super fun, but does require communication, which you will quickly discover, esp. if movements are done insync. You do not need to have a team already together to do the team WOD, we can team everyone up before the workout.
We've also had a number of people mention they were going to hit the Partner WOD, then stay for the team WOD. We're not saying you can not do that (( you must sign in )) however, we have created the two classes so that more members have the opportunity to train on Saturdays, as the Saturday class was capping out.
Don't forget about the change in time! We know we've said it a few times. But partner WOD is no longer at 9am. Start time is 8:30am!
Coach Steph has a fun inaugural Team WOD for you tomorrow! We know she's looking forward to it, so enjoy!


This was my first collaboration with Sneaks. I found her through Alphaville, loved her sound, and approached her wanting to shoot a video for PBNJ. The driving bass line inspired the handheld footage of her running through the street, and to tie all the locations together we had her friend run across the frame in the next outfit.


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John Kushner (June 22, 1923 – March 2, 1984) was a Canadian federal and provincial level politician. He served as a member of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta from 1975 to 1979 and then served as a Member of Parliament from 1979 until his death in 1984. He sat with the Progressive Conservative caucus on both the provincial and federal level.

Early life
John Kushner was born in Poland on June 22, 1923. Prior to his political career he worked as a security officer.

Afgter coming to Alberta he got a job with the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR). He rose through the ranks of the Brotherhood of Railway Trainmen to the presidency of the local.

As well, he was president of the Calgary Labour Council in the 1960s.

Kushner was very active with many local organizations and served on the board of the Metro Calgary and Rural General Hospital District No. 93, 1969-1974.

Family life
He and his wife, Olga Komix, 1928-2014, had two sons, Jack and Stan.

Stan was elected MLA for Calgary Mountainview after John stepped down in 1978 to enter federal politics.

Political career
He was a Calgary alderman for Ward 5 from 1965 to 1967, and again from 1968 to 1974.

He was also a Public School Trustee, 1971-1974.

Kushner ran for a seat to the Alberta Legislature for the first time in the 1971 Alberta general election. He ran as a Progressive Conservative in the new electoral district of Calgary-McCall candidate and finished in second place out of four candidates losing to Social Credit candidate George Ho Lem.

Kushner made a second attempt to run for provincial office, this time running in the electoral district of Calgary-Mountain View in the 1975 Alberta general election. He defeated long time Social Credit incumbent Albert Ludwig and three other candidates in a hotly contested race to pick up the seat for the governing Progressive Conservative party.

Kushner served one term in the Legislative Assembly of Alberta before jumping to federal politics. He ran for a seat to the House of Commons of Canada in the federal electoral district of Calgary East in the 1979 Canadian federal election. He faced off against Ludwig who ran as a candidate for the federal Liberals and future Alberta MLA Barry Pashak and four other candidates. He won the district by a near landslide taking over 60% of the popular vote to pick up the new seat for the federal Progressive Conservatives.

The minority government of Premier Joe Clark fell less than a year later. This forced the 1980 federal election to take place. Kushner ran against Ludwig and Pashak in a virtual rerun of the 1979 race. His margin of victory dropped by almost 10% but he still won the district by a wide margin defeating the seven other candidates in the race.

Kushner died late into his term on March 2, 1984.

See Also
"John Kushner" in Scoundrels and Scallywags : Characters from Alberta's Past / Brian Brennan. -- Calgary : Fifth House, 2002. p. 170-174

Kushner fonds at Glenbow Archives Call Numbers:  M-7644, PA-2974, PB-727, PD-242

References

External links

Legislative Assembly of Alberta Members Listing

1923 births
1984 deaths
Members of the House of Commons of Canada from Alberta
Progressive Conservative Party of Canada MPs
Progressive Conservative Association of Alberta MLAs
Polish emigrants to Canada
Calgary city councillors

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


Field service management software is a requirement for companies that service their product in the field. This type of software is critical for resolving customer issues as soon as they arise, which is necessary to gain customer satisfaction and loyalty. The right field service management software will allow you to track your on-site services and requests, manage your personnel, and get deep visibility into your service operations.
Field service management capabilities are often the highest priority within an organization. This not only applies to revenue streams, but also the best means to create customer satisfaction, resulting in increased sales and referral opportunities.
Even though these capabilities have been identified as a high priority by most organizations, it is common for field service management and related activities to be managed in separate, low-functioning, un-integrated systems – or even in Excel – which is not a good use of anyone's time.
Organizations need to leverage ERP software to give themselves the best opportunity to successfully manage these services. Field service management software can play a major role in accomplishing this.
Field service management software allows customers to make important decisions in less time. When quotes, configurations, estimates, sales orders, and available-to-promise (ATP) data are accessible instantly, the customer can approve and sign instantly on-site.
Immediate customer feedback is critical to being proactive with customers. If a technician can alert management of an issue in real-time, decisions can be made on whether to credit or refund the customer. This type of feedback can also expedite the process if a meeting needs to be set up, or a formal thank you to the business needs to be issued.
Always being one step ahead goes a long way with customers. Organizations can offer their customers asset management data that will help both parties capture and analyze product lifecycles.
Publishers in the field service management software space need "in the field" experience and collaboration with their customers to provide best practices within their applications.
Technology and mobility are very important for service companies. Applications that are fully integrated have an advantage, but add-on service components can provide deeper functionality.


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Baltic State
Scandinavia & Baltic Cruise
Departing on Jun 25, 2023 on the Celebrity Apex
Dates: Jun 25, 2023 through Jul 07, 2023
Ship: Celebrity Apex
Rotterdam, Netherlands, Berlin (Warnemunde), Germany, Visby, Sweden, Tallinn, Estonia, Helsinki, Finland, Stockholm, Sweden, Copenhagen, Denmark, Rotterdam, Netherlands
Cat: DO
Cat: P1
Cat: MS
Baltic Bounty Copenhagen to London (Tilbury)
Departing on Aug 05, 2024 on the Insignia
Ship: Insignia
Copenhagen, Gdansk, Liepaja, Saarema, Tallinn, Helsinki, Mariehamn, Stockholm, Cruising The Baltic Sea, Berlin (Warnemunde)...
Cat: G
Cat: D
Cat: B2
Cat: PH3
Celtic & Baltic Bravado Amsterdam to Stockholm
Departing on Jul 04, 2024 on the Nautica
Ship: Nautica
Amsterdam, Bruges (Zeebrugge), London (Tilbury), Cruising The English Channel & Celtic Sea, Dublin, Belfast, Waterford, Dartmouth, Saint-Malo, Paris (Le Havre)...
14 Nights Northern Europe
Departing on May 25, 2023 on the MSC Fantasia
Dates: May 25, 2023 through Jun 08, 2023
Ship: MSC Fantasia
Helsinki, Finland, Stockholm, Sweden, Kiel, Germany, Olden, Norway, Nordfjordeid, Norway, Maloy, Norway, Stavanger (Lysefijord), Norway, Kiel, Germany, Copenhagen, Denmark, Tallinn, Estonia...
14-Day Norway, Denmark and Sweden Roundtrip from Southampton (London)
Departing on Jun 01, 2024 on the Sky Princess
Dates: Jun 01, 2024 through Jun 15, 2024
Ship: Sky Princess
Southampton (London), Skagen, Copenhagen, Berlin (Warnemunde), Stockholm, Helsinki, Tallinn, Visby, Kristiansand, Southampton (London)
44-Day Jewels Of The China Sea & Kuroshio Route Hong Kong, China to Vancouver
Departing on Mar 28, 2024 on the Seabourn Odyssey
Dates: Mar 28, 2024 through May 11, 2024
Ship: Seabourn Odyssey
Hong Kong, China, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, , Keelung (Taipei), Taiwan, , Naha, Japan, Tianjin (Beijing), People's Republic of China, , Busan (Pusan), South Korea, Nagasaki, Japan...
Aboard The Yachts of Seabourn, the world is more intimate and more enchanting. Here, you'll explore ports rarely visited by larger ships and meet people who are happy to show you around their hidden corner of the globe. With their unmatched sense of style, elegance and grace, The Yachts of Seabourn beckon you to travel beyond the bounds of the imagination. Aboard Seabourn, every desire is met promptly and with a welcoming smile. Whether it's a warm blanket and a cup of gourmet hot chocolate as you drift along the Norwegian Fjords or a relaxing neck massage poolside, you'll feel that you're a member of a very exclusive club.
+ $1,745.00 taxes/fees
Warsaw & The Baltic States - Small Group
Arrive Warsaw, Exploring the Proud Polish Capital of Warsaw, Vilnius, Venerable Capital of Lithuania, Vilnius and the Castle of Trakai, The Votive Hill of Crosses and the Art Nouveau Nirvana of Riga, Riga Sightseeing and onto Tallinn, Surrender to the Magic of Tallinn Relaxed Start, Depart Tallinn
Set out on an all-encompassing adventure of the Baltic capitals-journeying from Warsaw to Riga and on to Tallinn. Join a Local Expert in the Polish capital for an insider's take on the city's sights before hopping the Lithuanian border to Vilnius. After exploring the Old Town and the Gates of Dawn, the Gothic Trakai Castle beckons-an island fortress and architectural masterpiece on Lake Galve, that can only be accessed by wooden footbridge. Get to grips with Latvia as you barter with local stallholders at Riga's Central Market-located in the massive aircraft hangers that once housed Zeppelins. Across the border in Tallinn, take your pick with the Insight Choice of a town hall square walki...
Special Voyage: Stockholm to Copenhagen
Departing on Aug 19, 2024 on the Silver Dawn
Ship: Silver Dawn
Stockholm, Tallinn, Helsinki, Riga, Klaipeda, Gdansk, Ronne, Bornholm, Copenhagen, Day at sea, Stavanger...
7 Nights Northern Europe
Departing on Jun 10, 2023 on the MSC Poesia
Ship: MSC Poesia
Copenhagen, Denmark, Warnemunde (Berlin), Germany, Gdynia (Gdansk-Danzig), Poland, Klaipeda, Lithuania, Riga, Latvia, Stockholm, Sweden, Copenhagen, Denmark
Cat: SL1
Song of the Northern Seas Stockholm to Amsterdam
Departing on Sep 26, 2024 on the Sirena
Ship: Sirena
Stockholm, Helsinki, Kotka, Tallinn, Riga, Klaipeda, Gdansk (Gdynia), Ronne (Bornholm), Berlin (Warnemunde), Copenhagen...
Departing on Jun 04, 2023 on the MSC Fantasia
Kiel, Germany, Copenhagen, Denmark, Tallinn, Estonia, Helsinki, Finland, Stockholm, Sweden, Kiel, Germany, Bergen, Norway, Nordfjordeid, Norway, Olden, Norway, Stavanger (Lysefijord), Norway...
Cat: SLS
Departing on Sep 01, 2024 on the MSC Poesia
Warnemunde (Berlin), Germany, Ronne, Denmark, Visby, Sweden, Riga, Latvia, Tallinn, Estonia, Helsinki, Finland, Stockholm, Sweden, Copenhagen, Denmark, Karlskrona, Sweden, Warnemunde (Berlin), Germany
Best Of Scandinavia
Departing on Jun 05, 2023 on the Celebrity Silhouette
Southampton, England, Oslo, Norway, Copenhagen, Denmark, Tallinn, Estonia, Stockholm, Sweden, Skagen, Denmark, Southampton, England
Northern Europe & British Isles Cruise Stockholm to Copenhagen
Departing on Jul 16, 2024 on the Silver Dawn
Stockholm, Helsinki, Tallinn, Riga, Klaipeda, Gdansk, Ronne, Bornholm, Copenhagen
Cruising Scandinavia & the Baltic Sea Luxury Expedition Cruises
Price Per Night: $1,332.78 (USD)(for comparison only)
Copenhagen, Denmark, Gdansk, Poland, Klaipeda, Lithuania, Riga, Latvia, Stockholm, Sweden, Stockholm, Tallinn, Estonia, Helsinki, Finland, Helsinki
Departing on May 25, 2023 on the Celebrity Apex
Rotterdam, Netherlands, Visby, Sweden, Stockholm, Sweden, Helsinki, Finland, Tallinn, Estonia, Berlin (Warnemunde), Germany, Copenhagen, Denmark, Rotterdam, Netherlands
10-day Cruise to Baltic: Germany, Russia & Poland to Copenhagen from Stockholm, Sweden on Norwegian Dawn
Departing on Jun 22, 2023 on the Norwegian Dawn
Ship: Norwegian Dawn
Stockholm, Sweden, Helsinki, Finland, KOTKA, FINLAND, VISBY, SWEDEN, Tallinn, Estonia, RIGA, LATVIA, KLAIPEDA, LITHUANIA, GDYNIA GDANSK, POLAND, WARNEMUNDE BERLIN, GERMANY, HAMBURG (KIEL), GERMANY...
110-Day World Cruise - Roundtrip Brisbane
Departing on May 02, 2024 on the Coral Princess
Nights: 110
Dates: May 02, 2024 through Aug 21, 2024
Ship: Coral Princess
Brisbane, Bali (Benoa), Singapore, Colombo, Aqaba, Suez Canal, Crete (Heraklion), Salerno, Rome (Civitavecchia), Corsica (Ajaccio)...
21-Day Norse Legends & Jewels Of The Baltic Roundtrip from Rotterdam
Rotterdam, Scenic Cruising Hard, Eidfjord, Alesund, Cruising Geirangerfj, Geiranger, Bergen, Rotterdam, Scenic Cruising Oslo, Oslo...
Cat: B
Departing on Sep 21, 2024 on the Rotterdam


Here is a list of ten basic human relations skills and descriptions of each. Read them thoroughly and discuss them together until you both clearly understand them.
Working separately, read each skill description and rate yourself as a percentage of the time you feel you perform the skill in your relationship on the Lekart scale below (1-100). Try to think of examples that support your self-evaluation. Take as much time as you need. Do not talk ¬while you are working.
I listen thoughtfully when you are talking. I pay attention to your words and feelings. I rarely let my mind wander or think of what I am going to say next. I rarely interrupt you before you are finished.
When we are talking, I tend to say with you. When appropriate, I face you squarely, maintain eye contact, have a relaxed and open posture, and in general show that I am giving you my full attention.
I make it a point to understand where your thoughts and feelings are coming from. I "get into your shoes" and experience your feelings with you. I can almost always say: "If I were you, I'd feel the same way." You can count on me to understand you.
I let you know that I hear and understand you and that I know where you are coming from. I respond to what you say before I express my own thoughts or feelings. I check out when I am not sure I understand you accurately. I realize that my hearing you doesn't help very much unless you know you are heard.
I let you know that I value you as a person, that I see you as a unique human being with the wisdom of your own experiences. I affirm your right to be in charge of your own life. I am on your side. I am for you. I let you know that I want you to be all that you can be, all that you choose to be.
I accept you the way you are. I do not try to change you or your behavior. You have a right to your own thoughts, feelings, and attitudes. I may disagree with you at times, but I don't try to change your viewpoint. When I disagree with you, I make it a point to understand you without putting you down. When you disagree with me, I am not defensive or argumentative.
I do not suffer in silence, but I am not a bully either. I care for you, but I put a high priority on taking care of myself as well. I express my own thoughts, feelings, attitudes, and ideas. I do not expect you always to agree with me, but I do expect you to value what I have to say. I do not say "yes" when I mean "no." I want you to assert yourself in the same way.
I don't use "smoke screens" like sarcasm, teasing, long-winded lectures, withdrawing, or sulking. I let you know straight what is going on even if it means conflict. I ask for what I want. I think we are both strong and mature enough to deal with reality. Yet I am sensitive enough not to hurt needlessly.
I talk about how it is with us—you and me. When a conversation bogs down, I stop and talk about what is going on between you and me "here and now" that might be getting in the way. I tell you what I like and don't like about the way we relate to each other. I want you to do the same.


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Seattle Releases Environmental Justice and Equitable Development Plan for the Duwamish Valley
June 28, 2018 by Seattle OPCD
Seattle Mayor Jenny A. Durkan released the Duwamish Valley Action Plan, setting forth a series of actions and strategies to expand economic opportunity, make environment progress and increase investments in the South Park and Georgetown communities. The plan is the result of an 18-month process that engaged City staff, residents, workers, and businesses of the Duwamish Valley to create a framework that reflects their priorities. The plan will be used to guide the City's work and investments for years to come.
"We are taking another important step together toward realizing the community's vision of a more inclusive, equitable, and vibrant Duwamish Valley. As a City, we are standing together to say we will do more with a plan that brings together the community's vision for economic opportunity and environmental progress with a plan for making it real," said Mayor Jenny Durkan. "From the Duwamish River Opportunity Fund to the Duwamish Valley Youth Corps to the South Park Merchants Association to the Latino Community Fund, the City has committed partners in this effort to ensure real economic empowerment, public safety, and a healthier environment in the Duwamish Valley. In all our actions, we will strive to honor the special importance of healing and preserving the ecosystems on the land and in the waterways to the Native people, including the Duwamish Tribe, which gives the Valley its name."
By applying an environmental justice and racial equity lens, the actions form an environmental justice, equitable development, and anti-displacement strategy that is focused on seven priority areas: Environment, Parks & Open Spaces, Community Capacity, Mobility & Transportation, Economic Opportunity & Jobs, Affordable Housing, and Public Safety. It includes:
50 near-term (0-2 years) actions the City has already taken in South Park and Georgetown from 2016 through early 2018 to address community priorities, show responsiveness, and build trust;
37 mid-term (2-5 years) opportunities, with specific strategies and actions, that the City will begin implementing in 2018; and
5 long-term (5+ years) strategies with bold and ambitious goals related to Anti-Displacement, Workforce Development, Climate Change, Parks & Open Spaces, and Health.
In 2016 and 2017, the City invested approximately $500,000 in actions that advanced or addressed previously identified community priorities. For example, youth capacity building and training related to tree canopy enhancements; de-pave (removing asphalt) and tree planting in industrial areas; and capacity building for an emerging housing and anti-displacement coalition.
Through the efforts of community members and Duwamish Valley Program's work inventorying City projects and programs, and elevating South Park and Georgetown priorities, approximately $1.5 million were secured in the 2018 budget. Work initiated this year will include asthma prevention; weatherization, plus health measures, in Duwamish Valley homes; temporary improvements and activation of the land-banked South Plaza site; pedestrian and bicyclist safety improvements, including design of a pedestrian and bicycle connection between Georgetown and South Park; support for small merchants; and supporting the growth of the Duwamish Valley Affordable Housing Coalition.
Within the next five years, the City is committed to implementing equitable development strategies in partnership with the community, including improving access to affordable housing, jobs, and contracting; and developing strategies to adapt to flood risk and other climate change impacts while helping keep people and businesses in place.
"This action plan represents the hopes, dreams, and wants of our communities in South Park – from our youth, to our immigrant and refugee neighbors, to our small business owners and workers. It truly speaks to our priorities," said Paulina López, a South Park resident and manager of the Duwamish Valley Youth Corps. "I commend the City for taking such an intentional, collaborative, and comprehensive approach to ensure their efforts and investments yield multiple benefits for years to come."
The plan is the cornerstone of Seattle's Duwamish Valley Program, a multi-departmental effort jointly led by Seattle's Office of Sustainability & Environment and Office of Planning and Community Development to advance the environmental justice and equitable development goals outlined in the Equity & Environment Agenda and Equitable Development Implementation Plan. Focused on the Duwamish Valley neighborhoods of South Park and Georgetown, the program is driven by environmental justice guiding principles, racial equity outcomes, community input, and a commitment to community-led planning.
"I've been involved in Georgetown community activism and advocacy efforts for many years. While progress has been slow at times, I'm excited and hopeful for the many changes I've seen recently," said Georgetown resident Marianne Clark, whose family has lived in the neighborhood for five generations and whose father used to fish on the river for sustenance. "The City is working more closely with us to address several issues, including public safety, environment, parks, and more. Georgetown stands ready to work with the City to improve our beloved neighborhood!"
Filed Under: Daily Plan It, News Release Tagged With: Duwamish Valley, Equitable Development


Follow the instructions of this crochet tutorial and Crochet pattern and make a fancy, colourful granny square bag.
Chain 4 and form a ring. Chain 3 (counting as 1dc) and then work 2 dc into the ring, this is our first cluster of 3dc. Now chain 2 and work 3 dc into the ring again. Repeat *ch2, dc3* until you have four 3dc-clusters. To close round 1 work a slip stitch into the top of the first ch3.
Slip stitch through the top of the chain clusters near hook, bringing hook to the loop between the previous round's chain clusters. Chain three from hook (counting as 1dc). Work 2 dc into the loop. Chain 2 and work 3 dc into the same loop, this will form the corner of the granny square. Repeat *ch2, dc3* until you have eight 3dc-clusters, 1 pair of 3 dc-cluster on each corner.
Take a different coloured yarn. Slip stitch through the loop between the previous round's chain clusters. Similarly crochet the corner then chain 2. Work 3 dc into the next loop from round-2. Chain 2 and form corner like we did before. Repeat *ch2, dc3* until you have twelve 3dc-clusters, 1 pair of 3 dc-cluster on each corner and one 3 dc-cluster into the middle loop.
Take a different coloured yarn. Repeat the corner stitch and chain 2 before each 3 dc-cluster to complete your granny square. You can stop once you're satisfied with the size of the granny square.
Crochet 6 or 9 granny squares.
Place 2 granny squares together with their right sides facing each other. Take a yarn and tie a knot through the loops of both granny squares.
Now work single crochet through loops of both granny squares on any one side to attach them. Similarly attach the other granny squares together. Or you can simply stitch them using needle and thread.
Make a bag using fabrics of your choice but the size should be appropriate for the attached granny square patterns. Use hot glue to attach the pattern on the front side of the bag.
Create tassels using different coloured yarns and attach them on the bottom side of the attached granny square pattern.
Time to show off your pretty crochet bag!


Remember when you were a kid and minutes felt like hours? When you were falling asleep at school and waiting for the bell to ring so you could go home… Especially when you were waiting for something fun to happen? Like presents or a visit from a loved one.
Well that's how I feel today, I'm just counting down the minutes until I can press this next interview and share it with you dear readers.
You see, March madness has arrived and I'm in the process of putting the finishing touches on the final backlogged timotheories interview before we get into a regular routine.
You see, I promised I would share a new interview with you this Sunday, and that's not really the case. What I really want to do is to give you a teaser of things to come in this month's entry before the real thing. This is because I'm test driving some new audio equipment and I want to get your feedback on the how things pan out sonically.
That's why I am SO incredibly pumped to give you readers a sample Q&A from episode 7 of timotheories interviews!
"Coincidentally" of course, that relates to the theme of the month and the talent behind the topic.
This month's featured artist is a multi-talented audio learner with a knack for improving her way out of the booth and onto the stage so-to-speak. I had the incredible fortune to sit down with her and discuss her passion for learning, how she manages to run a recording studio/ web design studio, perform operatic pop with her partner, get involved in local improv and pursue a second degree while in the midst of her twenties.
Below is a clip from our interview!
I'm ridiculously excited to share this clip from the Paige Knickle interview and you will see the final result next week, but for now, enjoy our brief interlude and the rest of your Sunday. Why not spend it reading a good book or enjoying an activity that trains your brain, and learn from Paige's mentor on how to stay active and happy? I know I'm going to do something fun tonight.
Probably read a graphic novel, to be honest.
I'm out of theories for now, dear readers! Enjoy the rest of your Sunday, and I'll see you tomorrow for a great little album review featuring 1975.


Last night, within a 2 hour span, three bicyclists were injured in two separate accidents. The more serious of the two was in Davidsonville. Police are currently looking for a vehicle that allegedly hit the cyclists and then left the scene.
On February 22, 2014, at approximately 5:09 p.m., officers from the Traffic Safety Section responded to westbound Central Avenue at the Patuxent River Road in Davidsonville for a report of a crash involving two (2) bicyclists.
The investigation revealed that the bicyclists were traveling west on Central Avenue approaching the Patuxent River Bridge. The bicyclists were on or near the roadway edge line when Bicyclist #1 was struck by a light colored SUV that failed to remain at the scene. The striking vehicle fled west on Central Avenue into Prince Georges County.
Bicyclist #2 was riding immediately behind Bicyclist #1 and as a result of the collision between the car and Bicyclist #1, Bicyclist #2 also crashed. After the collision, the bike ridden by Bicyclist #1 came to rest in the roadway and was struck by a 2005 Chevy Impala.
Evidence recovered from the scene indicates that the fleeing vehicle is a Honda SUV. Witnesses describe the vehicle as light in color (possible silver or white) driven by a W/M 50 to 60 years of age with a grey mustache and dark glasses.
Bicyclist #1, Ms. Kristianson was transported to University of Maryland Shock Trauma where she is listed in critical, but stable condition. Bicyclist #2, Ms. Neel was transported to Washington Hospital Center where she was later released. The driver of the Chevy Impala sustained no injuries.
The primary cause of this crash is driver error. The driver failed to yield to the bicyclists lawfully using the roadway. Speed does not appear to be a factor in the collision. Witness report that sun glare may have been a factor at the time of the collision.
Anyone with information about this crash is asked to call the Traffic Safety Section at 410-222-8573.
Bicyclist #1: Lynn Carol Kristianson, 62, of Arlington, Virginia.
On February 22, 2014 at approximately 6:30 p.m. officers responded to the area of Ritchie Highway and Leelyn Drive for a report of an accident involving a bicyclist.
Upon their arrival, they observed a 14 year old male suffering from injuries sustained when he was struck by a car. The investigation revealed that several juveniles riding bicycles attempted to cross the northbound lanes of Ritchie Highway at Leelyn Drive against a red traffic signal.
The other juveniles in the group reported that they were attempting to cross when they observed a vehicle approaching. They advised they stopped. They further advised that the victim, a 14 year-old male, did not stop and was attempting to beat the car across when he was struck. He suffered injuries to his lower body and was transported by Medavac to Johns Hopkins Pediatrics for further evaluation. His injuries were not considered life threatening.
The primary cause of this accident is bicyclist error. No further information available.


text:
Finntroll ist eine finnische Folk-Metal-Band aus Helsinki. Sie wurde 1997 von Teemu "Somnium" Raimoranta und Jan "Katla" Jämsen gegründet.

Bandgeschichte

Gründung, Midnattens Widunder und Jaktens Tid
Im Januar 1998 nahmen Teemu "Somnium" Raimoranta und Jan "Katla" Jämsen das erste Demo Rivfader auf. Raimoranta spielte Gitarre und Bass, Jämsen sang und spielte Keyboard. Das Schlagzeug übernahm ein Drumcomputer. Der Formation hatten von 1997 bis 1998 zwar auch Mikael "Ancient Lord" Harju am Bass, Rauno "Nattvind" Raimoranta an Schlagzeug und Keyboards, sowie Tomi "Grönt Helvetes Kungen" Ullgrén an der zweiten Gitarre angehört, diese waren aber nicht oder nicht mehr an den Aufnahmen dieser Demo beteiligt. Obwohl das Demo eine Gesamtlänge von ca. 21 Minuten aufwies, enthielt es lediglich drei volle Songs und drei Instrumentalstücke bzw. Intros. Alle drei Lieder des Demos wurden später für das Debütalbum neu eingespielt. Die Band hat die Demoaufnahmen mittlerweile zum Download angeboten.

Nach Aufnahme dieser ersten Demo gesellten sich weitere Musiker zu der Band: Schlagzeuger Samu "Beast Dominator" Ruotsalainen, Gitarrist Samuli "Skrymer" Ponsimaa, Keyboarder Henri "Trollhorn" Sorvali sowie Bassist Sami "Tundra" Uusitalo, woraufhin die finnische Plattenfirma Spinefarm Records auf Finntroll aufmerksam wurde und die Band unter Vertrag nahm.

Nach dem ersten Album Midnattens Widunder, das 1999 auf den Markt kam und überwiegend gute Kritiken bekam, brachte das zweite von der Fachpresse ebenfalls sehr gelobte Album Jaktens Tid 2001 Finntroll den endgültigen Durchbruch. Weltweit waren Finntroll weiterhin bei Spinefarm Records unter Vertrag, lediglich für Deutschland, die Benelux-Staaten und Nordamerika wurde die Lizenz vom deutschen Label Century Media übernommen.

Visor om Slutet und Nattfödd
Im Juni 2002 musste Jan "Katla" Jämsen nach mehreren Operationen an einem Tumor seiner Stimmbänder die Band aus gesundheitlichen Gründen als Sänger verlassen, schreibt aber weiterhin Texte für Finntroll. Neuer Sänger wurde Tapio Wilska, der schon auf dem vorigen Album als Gast eine gesprochene Passage aufgenommen hatte.
In dieser Übergangszeit entstand das akustische Mini-Album Visor om Slutet, an dem Jan "Katla" Jämsen noch teilweise mitwirkte. Vier Wochen vor der Veröffentlichung, am 16. März 2003, starb Gitarrist Teemu "Somnium" Raimoranta in Helsinki. Als Grund wurde offiziell ein alkoholbedingter Sturz von der Pitkäsilta-Brücke angegeben. Im Februar 2004 gab Mika Luttinen, Sänger von Impaled Nazarene, jedoch in einem Interview an, dass Somnium Selbstmord begangen habe, seine Familie dies aber nicht öffentlich preisgeben wolle. Weiterhin sagte er, dass Somnium laut Obduktionsbericht nüchtern gewesen sei und einer seiner (Luttinens) Freunde ihn von der Brücke habe springen sehen. Mit Mikael "Routa" Karlbom fand die Band einen neuen Gitarristen, das Album wurde ausdrücklich dem verstorbenen Raimoranta gewidmet.

In dieser neuen Zusammenstellung arbeitete Finntroll an ihrem nächsten Album. Im Frühling 2004 wurde das Lied Trollhammaren auf einer gleichnamigen Vorab-EP veröffentlicht, die im Vorfeld des neuen Albums Nattfödd erschien. Die geringe Spieldauer von ca. 16 Minuten sorgte für Irritationen unter Fans und Fachpresse, neben dem Titelsong wurden vier nicht auf dem Album enthaltene Lieder veröffentlicht. Trotz der enormen bandinternen Veränderungen konnte Nattfödd schließlich musikalisch und kommerziell an seinen Vorgänger anknüpfen. Neben vielen positiven Stimmen zum Album wurde auch angemahnt, dass die geringe Spielzeit von knapp 36 Minuten auch mit den Zusatz-Songs der EP hätte gefüllt werden können.

2004 entschied sich der langjährige Keyboarder Henri "Trollhorn" Sorvali, nicht mehr mit der Band zu touren, sondern sich mehr auf sein Privatleben und seine andere Band Moonsorrow zu konzentrieren. Entgegen weit verbreiteten Gerüchten hat er die Band zwar nicht verlassen, wird jedoch auf Touren vom Imperanon-Keyboarder Aleksi Virta ersetzt. Anfang 2006 schied Sänger Wilska wegen interner Meinungsverschiedenheiten aus der Band aus. Da daraufhin ein Sänger fehlte, wurde auch die "No-Mercy"-Tour abgesagt. Am 5. April 2006 trat die Band im Night Life Rock Club in Helsinki mit Mathias "Vreth" Lillmåns (Twilight Moon) als Sänger auf.

Ur Jordens Djup, Nifelvind, Blodsvept und Vredesvävd
Am 30. März 2007 erschien das neue Album Ur Jordens Djup (zu deutsch "Aus den Tiefen der Erde"). Als Sänger wirkte der nun fest in die Band aufgenommene Mathias "Vreth" Lillmåns. Im Herbst 2008 spielten Finntroll zusammen mit Bands wie Primordial, Eluveitie, Equilibrium, Månegarm und Catamenia im Rahmen der Heidenfest-Tour einige Konzerte in Europa. Danach gab die Band ihren Entschluss bekannt, für etwa ein halbes Jahr eine Tour-Auszeit zu nehmen, um sich auf das neue Album zu konzentrieren. Weiterhin wurde eine Live-DVD angekündigt.

Am 4. September 2009 unterschrieb die Band einen weltweiten Vertrag über drei Alben beim deutschen Label Century Media. Zuvor waren alle Werke der Band weltweit über Spinefarm Records erschienen. Lediglich in Deutschland, den Beneluxstaaten und Nordamerika lag die Lizenz bei Century Media. Am 27. November 2009 gab die Band über ihre Myspace-Seite bekannt, dass das neue Studioalbum Nifelvind heiße und elf Songs beinhalte.

Nifelvind wurde in Finnland am 17. Februar 2010 und in Deutschland am 19. Februar 2010 über Century Media veröffentlicht. Zuvor wurde am 16. Januar ein Musikvideo zum Lied Solsagan veröffentlicht. Ein weiteres Video zu Under Bergets Rot folgte am 5. April 2010.

Im Rahmen des Paganfest 2010 tourte die Band vom 19. Februar 2010 bis zum 14. März 2010 zusammen mit Eluveitie, Dornenreich, Varg und Arkona durch Europa. Für Finntroll, Eluveitie und Varg war dies gleichzeitig auch die Album-Release-Tour, da alle drei Bands zu Beginn der Tour ein neues Album veröffentlicht hatten. 2011 waren Finntroll zusammen mit Turisas Headliner der Heidenfest 2011 European Tour. Aus diesem Anlass wurde Ende September 2011 eine Tour-Edition des Albums Nifelvind herausgegeben. Diese enthält neben dem regulären Album eine Bonus-CD mit drei bisher unveröffentlichten, englischsprachigen Cover-Songs.

Das sechste Studioalbum der Band mit dem Titel Blodsvept (Schwedisch für blutumhüllt) erschien am 22. März 2013 in Finnland und am 25. März im Rest Europas. Aufgenommen wurde das Album in den Sonic Pump Studios in Helsinki, gemastert von Mika Jussila von den Finnvox Studios. Der titelgebende Song des Albums erschien vorab online und war als Beilage der 83. Ausgabe des Legacy Magazines im März 2013 enthalten.

2014 erschien mit Natten med de levande Finntroll (zu deutsch "Nacht mit den lebenden Finntroll") das erste Livealbum der Bandgeschichte, aufgenommen im September 2008 in Amsterdam während der Tour zu Ur jordens djup. Im selben Jahr verließ Samuel "Beast Dominator" Ruotsalainen die Band nach 16 Jahren und als neuer Schlagzeuger kam Heikki Saari, auch bekannt als "MörkÖ", dazu.

Das insgesamt siebte Studioalbum – und das erste mit neuem Schlagzeuger – war für den August 2020 angekündigt. Am 25. Juni wurde das Albumcover, der Name und die Trackliste des neuen Albums namens Vredesvävd über die Facebook-Seite von Century Media Records veröffentlicht. Im gleichen Zug wurde bekanntgegeben, dass die Albumveröffentlichung aus "produktionstechnischen Gründen" vom 14. August auf den 18. September verschoben wurde.

Lillmåns beteiligte sich neben seiner Zugehörigkeit zu Finntroll auch an dem Bandprojekt Morbikon, dessen Debütalbum im Jahr 2022 erschien.

Stil

Musik
Finntroll kombinieren in ihrer Musik Metal-Klänge, vorwiegend aus den Bereichen des Black und Death Metal mit traditionellen Instrumenten und Klängen, vor allem dem sogenannten Humppa. Der so entstehende Musikstil wird von der Band selbst als "Trollish Hoedown Metal" bezeichnet und schafft sich in der Spannweite von Black, Death und Folk Metal sowie den finnischen Humppa-Elementen seine eigene Sparte. Durch die Verwendung traditioneller Instrumente, wie dem Akkordeon, verschiedenen Flöten, diversen Bläsern und auch dem Klavier, ist die Musik sehr melodisch und meist sehr fröhlich und eingängig. Neben finnischen Einflüssen findet man auf neueren Veröffentlichungen auch vermehrt russisch angehauchte Melodik, so etwa im Refrain des Nattfödd-Liedes "Fiskarens Fiende".

Die Stücke haben teilweise Black-Metal-Charakter, der durch die Vermischung mit dem Humppa mehr oder weniger melodisch wird. Ein typisches Element der Band ist, dass rhythmische Einsätze der sehr präsenten Tasteninstrumente als Offbeats vorliegen. Solche Rhythmen finden normalerweise eher im Ska oder im Reggae Verwendung. In melodischer Hinsicht sind meist ebenfalls die Tasteninstrumente melodieführend, die für den Rock- und Metalbereich typische E-Gitarre hat meist nur begleitende Funktion.

Gesanglich orientiert sich die Band am Black Metal, aber auch an einer der ältesten Gesangsformen der Welt, dem so genannten Joik der finnischen Ureinwohner (Samen), so zum Beispiel im Lied "Jaktens Tid".

Texte
Finntroll singen ihre Texte auf schwedisch, da Schwedisch "verdammt trollisch" klingt, wie es der Finnlandschwede Jan "Katla" Jämsen, der erste Sänger, einst begründete. Inhaltlich orientiert sich die Band neben Trollgeschichten an Natur-, Kriegs- und heidnischen Thematiken. Die Texte basieren teilweise auf existierenden Trollmythen und handeln von diversen Königen und Stämmen der Trolle. Das machte sich schon beim Debütalbum Midnattens Widunder bemerkbar, dessen Texte unter anderem davon handeln, wie Trolle Kriege gegen Andersgläubige führen und sie anschließend essen. Auf jedem der ersten drei Studio-Alben findet sich jeweils ein kurzes Stück über die beiden Priester "Åmund" und "Kettil" und deren Schicksal. Der Titel der Lieder endet jeweils auf …visan (Schwedisch für das …lied). Auf Ur Jordens Djup, dem vierten Album, ist ein weiterer "…visan"-Titel zu finden, der jedoch nicht mehr die beiden Priester zum Thema hat. Im Lied "Kvällning" ertönt nach rund neun Minuten Stille der Hidden Track, der auf der Internetseite als "Trollvisan" bezeichnet wird.

Auf dem fünften Studio-Album Nifelvind kehrte die Band der Trollthematik vollständig den Rücken zu. Stattdessen wendete sie sich nun vor allem dem Thema Tod sowie der nordischen Mythologie zu. Die Abkehr von den Trollen erklärte der Finntroll-Sänger Vreth wie folgt: "Hier oben im Norden nutzen wir viele verschiedene Kreaturen, um verschiedene Dinge in unserem Leben zu beschreiben wie Angst, Mord, Geburt usw. Viele dieser Themen kommen in dem Album vor." Mit dem Bezug auf die nordische Mythologie näherte sich die Band textlich teilweise dem Pagan Metal an.

Diskografie

Galerie

Weblinks

Quellen

Band (Helsinki)
Pagan-Metal-Band
Folk-Metal-Band
Finnische Band
Humppa


SWIngIng DoorS Swinging shower doors open just like the front door on your house, using either a traditional hinge or a pivot at the top and bottom of the door. The hardware on pivoting doors is usually less obtrusive, but choosing the right hinge is a good opportunity to complement or play off the fixtures and hardware in the bathroom. Shower doors are generally 24 in. to 36 in. wide and open outward, so make sure that adjacent cabinets, toilets, or vanities won't interfere with the swing of the door. Many models also swing inward 10° to 20°, making it easier to reach in and adjust the water temperature before you step into the shower. Swinging doors are seldom a good choice for tub/shower combinations. What to look for How a door closes—with a magnetic seal, a gasket, or a catch—is a matter of preference. Whenever possible, try out the shower door in person before making a purchase. Because the doors swing outward, take a close look at the method used to prevent water on the open door from dripping onto the floor. Most employ a vinyl sweep or a channel-style drip edge—they can be almost invisible—but make sure the drip edge will last the long haul or can be replaced easily. If you're tall, make sure the header (if there is one) is high enough so that you can step into the shower without ducking your head. Always remember that you get what you pay for. Cheap swinging doors are cheap for a reason. Installation notes The actual installation is fairly straightforward, but measurements and pilot holes must be spot-on for the door to function as it should. Whether you do it yourself or hire an installer, make sure that out-of-plumb walls are addressed, either by having the glass cut to fit or in the mount used to tie the glass to the wall. Depending on the size of the unit and the thickness of the glass, heavier units may require extra blocking in the wall. Starting around $100 62 FINE HOMEBUILDING Frameless doors highlight hardware. The clean simplicity of a frameless swinging door (above) allows hardware to shine, playing off other bathroom fixtures. This door, by Kohler, costs $820. A framed door has mass that evokes strength. The bronze-finished frame on this swinging door adds a sense of quality and durability to the bathroom. The cost is typical of a quality door, at roughly $1600 (as shown, including surround). Photos: top, courtesy of Kohler; bottom, courtesy of Basco.