South Africa targets to achieve Co2 emission as 34% below BAU by 2020, and 42% below BAU by 2025.
JOHANNESBURG IS RANKED 13THIN THE WORLD OF GREENHOUSE GAS (GHG) EMITTERS. IT IS THE LARGEST CITY IN SOUTH AFRICA (SA), AND REGARDED AS THE FINANCIAL CAPITAL AND THE "GATE-WAY TO THE AFRICAN CONTINENT.
Johannesburg is located in Gauteng province and is SA's fastest growing city; it is also one of the few major cities in the world not located near or on a water source. Johannesburg is also host of 70% of SA's businesses' headquarters and many multinational corporations. Climate risks such as heat wave-related deaths; flood risks; water and energy demands; and disease vectors are becoming more prevalent.
Johannesburg has developed an Energy and Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan: the Climate Change Strategic Framework (CCSF) with the objective to institutionalise and mainstream climate change action, systems strengthening and capacity and process development to mitigate and adaptation efforts. Energy and Climate Change Strategy & Action Plan detailing adaptation and mitigation goals, is summarised as follows: Reduce Greenhouse Gas(GHG) emissions: a 43% reduction by 2050; Minimise exposure to climate change, identifying risks and inform planning; Enhance resilience of communities by adapting infrastructure; Understand impact and define measures accordingly; and Incorporate climate change in all future actions and service delivery.
Johannesburg is a carbon intensive economy delivery 66.7% of total Greenhouse gas emissions from electricity – dependent on coal powered electricity generation. This also exemplifies the problem of South Africa's carbon intensive electricity supply – the country relies almost entirely on coal for the generation of its electricity. Residential and commercial buildings within the city also rely solely on electricity for its heating and cooling systems. Electricity within the City is predominately provided City Power Johannesburg (Pty) Limited, and although a separate company, is fully owned by the City of Johannesburg.Energy consumption has increased in absolute terms mainly due to the increase in the city's population. The lack of electricity in the city continues to be most prevalent in informal dwellings (households living on formal dwellings in backyard shacks) and informal settlements (households residing on un-proclaimed land zoned for development). The city also faces a critical challenge of aging infrastructure.
Johannesburg's is an inland port, the largest in Africa and fifth largest in the world, which handles 30% of the country's exports. The majority of Johannesburg's transport emissions come from road transportation (82%) the majority of fuel use is estimated to be from private cars and minibus taxis within the City. Aviation accounts for 14% and rail 4%. Overall emissions from road transport were estimated to be 5.58 million tonnes of CO2-e. Of which 3.96 million tonnes were from petrol and 1.65 million tonnes from diesel. Johannesburg city council has developed an integrated transport plan (ITP), which aims to improve mobility and accessibility of its residents. The long-term aim is to provide public transport network that incorporates, on an integrated basis, all modes of transport, including public transport, private transport (freight and private cars) and non-motorised transport. Johannesburg has developed the Rea Vaya Bus Rapid Transport system and Metrobus. The City is investing in a transformation process at Metrobus to increase efficiencies and capabilities. It is replacing its current fleet with 'green' buses, as well as implementing a revised Metrobus operational plan and integrating it with other transport services.
Identifying desired sectoral mitigation contribution: defining desired emission reduction outcomesfor each sector and sub-sector of the economy.
• Defining Carbon Budgets for significant GHGemitting sectors and/or sub-set.
• Use different types of mitigation approaches, policies, measures and actions that optimise the mitigation outcomes as well as job creation and othersustainable development benefits.
• A national monitoring system of data collec- tion to provide detailed and accurate emission data to support the analysis of the impact of mitigation measures.
South Africa's transport subsector is the second-highest contributor to GHG emissions – emitting 61 Mt CO2 in 2013 (Posada, 2018), accounting for 13% of total emissions and for 453 924 Gg CO2eq over the period 2000 - 2010. In 2010, road transport was responsible for 91.2% of transport related GHG emissions (SA Department of Transport, 2017), 7.7% was from domestic civil aviation and 1.07% from rail- ways. Emissions in road transport increased because of motor vehicle sales that increased from 4.2% in 2000 to 15.7% in 2010 (Stats SA, 2011) – motor vehicles are closely associated with higher social status in South Africa. Without mitigation efforts the transport sector is projected to emit a total of 136 Gg CO2eq by year 2050 (SA Department of Transport, 2017). Motor gas con- tributed 64.9% towards the road transport fuel consumption in 2010, followed by gas/diesel oil (35%). Between the years 2000 and 2010 there was an increase in the percentage contribution of gas/diesel oil to the road transport consumption (8.2%), and a corresponding decline in the contribution from motor gasoline (SA Department of Transport, 2017). South Africa's railway sector uses electricity as its main source of energy, with diesel being the only other energy source. GHG emissions from transport sub-sector activities have increased by 32.2% from 36 016 GgCO2eq in the year 2000 to 47 607 GgCO2eq in 2010 (SA Department of Transport, 2017).
South Africa has embarked on energy and electricity planning actions to begin to transform the energy sector – moving away from its heavy dependence on fossil fuel. Some political hurdles have been present up until 2017, although a new administration has taken power since the beginning of 2018 – policy programmes are underdevelopment to begin to transform the energy sector moving towards renewable energy, increases in efficiency, and reduction inemissions intensity (SA Department of Environment, 2015). Moreover, SA has begun to rollout the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REI4P), approving some Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer projects and further projects are in consideration (Khumalo, 2018). The current administration also intends to also create a South African Green Fund, which would in- clude contributions from both domestic and international sources. SA has also been developing policy instruments, including a carbon tax, desired emission reduction outcomes (DEROs) for particular sectors, company-level carbon budgets, and regulatory stan-dards and controls for specific GHG pollutants andemitters (USAID, 2017).
SA's INDCs indicates that uncertainties exit in the reporting of emission in agriculture, forestry, and other land use (AFOLU). South Africa is also a water scare country burdened with a national infrastructure that was not developed to support its total populations (due to the legacy of apartheid and its history of inequality). In addition, investment in wastewater treatment works has not remained in-line with the growth in demand and use. SA has committed to developing a Waste management Flagship programme that will review and implement GHG mitigation potential of the waste management sector by investing in waste-to-energy, within the solid, semi-solid, and liquid-waste management sectors, especially the generation, capture, conversion and/or use of methane emissions. SA has enacted the Waste Act and National Waste Management Strategy which places a great emphasis on waste minimisation, reuse, recycling and recovery of waste. Yet, 90% of waste still ends up in local land-fills since remains and perception continues that it isa more expedient option. At the local municipal level challenges exit including skills development; lack of resources, i.e. capacity, funding, technologies; inadequate integrated waste management planning, waste data and better infrastructure development using advancements in technology (van Jaarsveldt, 2016). In addition, general societal awareness amongst the general public, consumers, and business owners, islacking regarding the benefits of waste managementand recycling.


First they were orphaned, then they were killed by the woman who inherited their care from her daughter.
Autistic 8-year-old twins Jaden and Jorden Webb were found shot to death in separate bedrooms of their Tucson, Ariz. home last Thursday, according to Pima County police. Dorothy Flood, 55, was found "unresponsive," according to KVQA-TV, having apparently overdosed.
Flood was revived and then arrested for their murder.
Flood admitted she had killed her grandsons and then tried to commit suicide with prescription medication, according to court documents obtained by KVOA.
She had been their guardian after their mother, Kristen Webb, died in February 2017, KVOA reported.
Flood is being charged with two counts of first-degree murder, according to the Arizona Republic, in a crime that has shocked and saddened the community, especially at Laguna Elementary School, which they attended.
Flood's friends were just as shocked, casting about for an explanation.
Flood's husband had died in 2014, McCord said. And a few years after that, her daughter — the twins' mother — committed suicide, KOLD said.
Flood was being held on $250,000 bond after a video court hearing on Friday night, reported the Arizona Daily Star. She's due in court again on April 15.


Over the July 4th holiday we packed up the car and headed to Libby, Montana for a family reunion hosted by Joel's uncle Les and Aunt Margy. First time to Libby for us, and we had a great time. Below are a few Calvin shots. More have been added to the Calvin SmugMug page, and follow this link to the Montana album.


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Home Explore Heaven Versus Earth
Heaven Versus Earth
Published by max_kirk, 2014-10-12 06:59:50
eaven vs. EarthBy Binyomin Adilman, based on Netivot ShalomThere is an argument brought in the Talmud and Midrash (Chagiga 12a, Bereishit Rabba 1:15) between the School of Hillel and the School of Shammai. The School of Hillel maintained that the Earth was created first, and School of Shammai maintained that the Heavens were created first. Said Rebbe Shimon Bar Yochai, \"I don't understand what the great sages are arguing about. I say that neither one of them was created first, rather they were created concurrently like a pot together with its lid; they are one thing\".One is obligated to serve G-d with both aspects, even the physical...Later commentaries were also surprised at the argument of the School of Hillel and the School of Shammai. What does it even matter which was created first, what was, is and that is that.Rather, says the Slonimer Rebbe (Netivot Shalom, commentary on Bereishit p.16), there must be an underlying consideration for us in understanding the ways of serving G-d.There are two ways in divine service: One is the path of the Heavens or spirituality, i.e. Torah, mitzvot, prayer, and acts of loving kindness. The second is the path of the Earth, or the physical, i.e. money, eating, sleeping and other physical needs. One is obligated to serve G-d with both aspects, even the physical!Full divine service can only be through the physical and spiritual, together in complimentary unity...The Maggid of Mezritch once commented on a verse from Psalms which is found in the daily prayers, \"How great are your works G-d, the whole world is filled with your possessions [in Hebrew, 'kinyanecha'].\" (Psalms 104:24) Said the Maggid, \"Don't read \"kinyanecha\" as \"your possessions\", rather read it as \"your acquisitions\"; the whole world is full of opportunities to acquire holiness and the ways of G-d.\" Proper use of the physical world can lead to maximum holiness.This then was the argument of the School of Shammai and the School of Hillel, writes the Slonimer Rebbe. What is the principle service of a Jew in this world, the path of the physical or of the spiritual? The School ofHillel held that the physical is the key service, and by sanctifying it, one world is filled with your possessions [in Hebrew, 'kinyanecha'].\" (Psalms 104:24) Said the Maggid, \"Don't read \"kinyanecha\" as \"your possessions\", rather read it as \"your acquisitions\"; the whole world is full of opportunities to acquire holiness and the ways of G-d.\" Proper use of the physical world can lead to maximum holiness.This then was the argument of the School of Shammai and the School of Hillel, writes the Slonimer Rebbe. What is the principle service of a Jew in this world, the path of the physical or of the spiritual? The School of Hillel held that the physical is the key service, and by sanctifying it, one will come to the spiritual. The School of Shammai held that the primary service is through the spiritual, which will fortify one enough to successfully master the physical. Rebbe Shimon Bar Yochai said, \"Not so\"! These two paths of serving G-d come to us as two parts of a whole, like a pot and its lid. Both paths were brought into the world synchronously, and a person has to serve G-d with both aspects equally. Full divine service can only be through the physical and spiritual, together in complementary unity.The account continues, \"And the earth was unformed and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep....\"(Gen. 1:2) A Jew must know that even though the physical path is dark and lurking with danger, nevertheless, \"And G-d said, 'Let there be light'...\"(Gen. 1:3) Through using the physical world as an essential aspect of one's divine service, the result will be light, a great advance in spirituality and knowledge of G-d.[First published in B'Ohelei Hatzadikim, Bereishit ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯Written in TearsFrom the teachings of Rabbi Israel Baal Shem Tov, translation and commentary by Rabbi Dr. Eliezer Shore\"So Moses, the servant of G-d, died there in the land of Moab, according to the word of G-d.\" (Deut. 34:5)Jewish mysticism teaches that the Torah was originally created only as a mass of letters. created only as a mass of letters.when someone died, the words were formed, \"and so-and-so died\". SoWritten in TearsFrom the teachings of Rabbi Israel Baal Shem Tov, translation and commentary by Rabbi Dr. Eliezer Shore\"So Moses, the servant of G-d, died there in the land of Moab, according to the word of G-d.\" (Deut. 34:5)Could Moses have already died when he wrote, \"And Moses died\"? Rather, Moses wrote up until this point, and from there onward, Joshua wrote. Rabbi Meir said, \"Is it possible that the Torah scroll [that Moses wrote] was lacking something? He said, \"Take this [complete] Torah scroll\" (ibid. 31:26). Rather, the Holy One dictated it, and Moses wrote it in tears. (Rashi, based upon Baba Batra 15a)These holy words do not seem to have any meaning. Rashi asks simply, \"Could Moses have already died?\" for it is impossible to say that he was alive when he wrote \"And Moses died\". One must say that he was dead, which makes Rashi's question a good one. But how did Rashi answer it, by saying that Moses wrote in tears? Does the fact that he wrote it in tears help? The original question still applies: How did he write \"And Moses died\" while he was still alive?Death only entered the world with the sin of Adam....This is indeed how it was. For it is an amazing thing to everyone how the Torah preceded the creation of the world by two thousand years. (Bereishit Rabbah 8:2) For how were all the holy stories of the Torah written then - about the creation of the world, Adam and Eve, Noah, the holy Forefathers, and all the other things from \"In the beginning\" until \"in the eyes of all Israel\" (the last words of the Torah, Deut. 34:12)? Those events had not yet occurred. Even more problematic is the fact that death only entered the world with the sin of Adam. Had he not sinned, there would be no death, for he had free will. How was the topic of death written in the Torah so far in advance: for instance, \"And so-and- so died\", or \"When a man dies in a tent\"(Num. 19:14). Adam had not yet sinned, and even though everything is foreseen [by G-d], permission is granted.1The truth is that the holy Torah was originally created only as a mass of letters. All the letters from \"In the beginning\" until \"in the eyes of all Israel\" were not arranged into the words that we see today, such as \"In the beginning G-d cxreated\" or \"Go from your land\", etc: rather, all these words were mixed together. Then, whenever something happened in the world, these letters arranged themselves into patterns of words, and a story was created from the event. For instance, with the creation of the world and the story of Adam and Eve, those letters drew close to one another and formed those words that relate this event. Likewise, The truth is that the holy Torah was originally created only as a mass of letters. All the letters from \"In the beginning\" until \"in the eyes of all Israel\" were not arranged into the words that we see today, such as \"In the beginning G-d cxreated\" or \"Go from your land\", etc: rather, all these words were mixed together. Then, whenever something happened in the world, these letters arranged themselves into patterns of words, and a story was created from the event. For instance, with the creation of the world and the story of Adam and Eve, those letters drew close to one another and formed those words that relate this event. Likewise, when someone died, the words were formed, \"and so-and-so died\". So too, when other events occurred, words of Torah were immediately formed from those letters according to the act. Had a different event occurred, the letter combinations would have been different, for the holy Torah is the wisdom of G-d and has no end.2Moses...really did write the entire thing from beginning to end....It turns out that when the time came for Moses to die, the entire Torah up until \"So Moses died\" had already been arranged into words. For all these events had already transpired. Only the letters of the words \"So Moses died\" until \"in the eyes of all Israel\" had not yet been arranged into words, because Moses was still alive. However, it was necessary for Moses to write all the words [of the Torah], as it says: \"Take this Torah scroll\", which means that it needed to be complete, and furthermore, it is called by his name, as in: \"Remember the Torah of Moses, My servant\"(Malachi 3:22).3What then did G-d do? He told Moses the letters that remained as they were still intermingled, without being combined into words. This is how Moses wrote them. Later, when he died, these letters immediately formed the words from the verse \"And Moses...died\" until \"in the eyes of all Israel.\" Thus, Moses did write the entire Torah, and it is correct to say: \"Take this Torah scroll,\" and to be called by his name, for he really did write the entire thing from beginning to end.This is what Rashi wrote, that G-d dictated it to Moses, and Moses wrote it. However, so as to avoid the problem as to how Moses wrote \"And he died\" while still being alive, Rashi explains that Moses wrote it in tears. The word \"tears\" - in Hebrew \"dima\" - also has the meaning of \"admixture\", as in \"hamidameh\"(Gittin 52b) or \"teruma midamat\",4 So too, Moses wrote it a letter at a time, mixed together. After he died, the words were formed from \"So Moses died\" until \"in the eyes of all Israel\". Understand this![Pitgamei Kedushin, Ge'ulat Yisrael;reprinted with permission from www.baalshemtov.org]hidetitleFOOTNOTES1. I.e. permission is granted for individuals to act as they choose. Moses wrote it a letter at a time, mixed together. After he died, thewords were formed from \"So Moses died\" until \"in the eyes of all Israel\". Understand this![Pitgamei Kedushin, Ge'ulat Yisrael;reprinted with permission from www.baalshemtov.org]hidetitleFOOTNOTES1. I.e. permission is granted for individuals to act as they choose. See Maimonides and Tosephot Yom Tov on Pirkei Avot 3:15.2. I.e. there is no end to the possible combinations of letters.3. The sefer Machazeh Avraham adds another reason, in that the Sefer Torah that Moses wrote was not able to be missing one letter.4. When teruma - the priestly tithes - becomes accidentally mixed with chulin, unsanctified food, the result is called demai, which means an "admixture\" which are mixed together._________________________________________________________The High Humble Willow By Binyomin AdilmanWhat is the nature of the aravot (willow branches) that are taken together with the other species during the first 6 days of Sukkot (and only on the last day is taken by itself, meriting a holiday of its own - Hoshanah Raba)?The Sages explained that the four species represent four different types of Jews: The etrog (citron) which has both a good taste and fragrance, represents one who possesses both Torah learning and mitzvot. The lulav (palm branch) which has a good taste (i.e. dates) but no fragrance, represents one who possesses Torah learning but has no mitzvot to his credit. The hadassim (myrtle twigs), which have fragrance but not a good taste, represent one who has mitzvot but no Torah learning. The aravot, which have neither taste nor fragrance, represent the one who lacks both Torah and mitzvot.When one considers all the things that G-d placed in the world for our benefit, there are three categories; things which are \"sweet and pleasant\", things which are \"good\", and things which are not only good but also intrinsically \"beneficial or healthful\". When it comes to the physical realm, \"sweet and pleasant\" is considered the lowest level,It is the humility of the willow that serves to elevate it beyond others. credit. The hadassim (myrtle twigs), which have fragrance but not agood taste, represent one who has mitzvot but no Torah learning. The aravot, which have neither taste nor fragrance, represent the one who lacks both Torah and mitzvot.When one considers all the things that G-d placed in the world for our benefit, there are three categories; things which are \"sweet and pleasant\", things which are \"good\", and things which are not only good but also intrinsically \"beneficial or healthful\". When it comes to the physical realm, \"sweet and pleasant\" is considered the lowest level, \"good\" is in the middle and \"beneficial or healthful\" is the most praiseworthy.The ultimate level of service is reached when one serves G-d solely in order to fulfill ones Torah obligations...For example, a person who is spiritually sensitive, when choosing the foods he will eat, makes his decision based on what is healthful for his body and that which will provide him the maximum advantage in his G- dly service. This is true even when that beneficial food is not so tasty and doesn't make such an enjoyable meal.Nevertheless, when it comes to spiritual matters the case is reversed, and the considerations are exactly the opposite. For a Jew who is dedicated to G-d's service, to engage is his service because it is healthful or beneficial, is like serving the master in order to receive recompense, and that is the lowest level of all. (Avot 1:3)Above this level is that of \"good\". Sometimes one serves G-d knowing that it is good and right, and he doesn't want to risk the consequences of going against G-d's will. Still this is not ultimately the purest way to serve G-d, since there remains some ulterior motivation in the service. The ultimate level of service is reached when one serves G-d solely in order to fulfill ones Torah obligations, whether or not he understand the mitzvah, and even if the mitzvah has no taste or fragrance, i.e. personal satisfaction, for him. Then, from above his is showered with divine beneficence, and he is blessed with a great sweetness and pleasantness in his service which was before unattainable. This \"spiritual sweetness\" - in Hebrew, \"araivus\" - is much higher than \"good or healthful\" and more pure in its essence.This is the idea of the aravot, which is from the Hebrew word \"araiv\", meaning \"sweet or pleasant\". The lowly arava which has no taste or fragrance in the physical realm ends up being the most prominent of all the species when we take it alone on the holiday created especially for it. And we, with the willows in our hands, are elevated along with them as we refine our service, until we, like the willow, are capable of serving G-d in a pure and unadulterated way.Aaron...was an expert at making peace between people at odds with one another... This is the idea of the aravot, which is from the Hebrew word \"araiv\",meaning \"sweet or pleasant\". The lowly arava which has no taste or fragrance in the physical realm ends up being the most prominent of all the species when we take it alone on the holiday created especially for it. And we, with the willows in our hands, are elevated along with them as we refine our service, until we, like the willow, are capable of serving G-d in a pure and unadulterated way.Aaron...was an expert at making peace between people at odds with one another...The arava also represents the aspect of Aaron the High Priest. He was an expert at making peace between people at odds with one another. When he spotted two people quarreling, he choose an opportune moment when he would approach one of the quarrelers, speak to him nicely and befriend him. The person would think to himself, \" Aaron the High Priest is befriending me! Why does he need me for a friend? If he knew what type of person I really was, he would have nothing to do with me.\" At that moment, he would resolve in his heart to do real teshuva, to be worthy of calling the High Priest his friend.Our Sukkahs are symbolic of the Clouds of Glory which accompanied and protected the Children of Israel in the desert. Therefore, on Sukkot, a holiday which is intrinsically linked to Aaron, we also incorporate the arava into our service. At the beginning of the festival, the arava is taken each day, bound together with the other species. This way, the person \"without taste or smell\" might be influenced by those who are already on a higher spiritual level and thereby become elevated through contact with them. On the other hand, one who has \"taste and smell\", when he comes into contact with the willow (i.e. the one without \"taste and smell\") will be reminded of the inherent lowliness of man, and will be seized by waves of humility. He will take a good look at himself, be humbled, and deepen the teshuva he began in Elul.One who is humble is considered as if he brought all of the sacrifices...As a person perfects his personal humility, G-d at the same time raises him up. This is Hoshana Rabba. As the sages stated, \"One who brings a burnt offering, earns the reward of a burnt offering. One who brings a meal offering, earns the reward of a meal offering. But one who is humble is considered as if he brought all of the sacrifices, as it is written, 'A contrite and humbled spirit is a sacrifice to G-d. G-d does not ignore a broken heart.'\" (Psalms 51; Sanhedrin 43b)The lowly willow, by way of its true humility and its willingness to be influenced for the better by the other species, is elevated higher, higher until it serve G-d alone. For this purpose we have Hoshana Rabba. When we, in our exalted spiritual state on Hoshana Rabba, really feel that we are children of the King, there is no request that is too much. Then, without embarrassment, we can ask for anything - including the humble is considered as if he brought all of the sacrifices, as it iswritten, 'A contrite and humbled spirit is a sacrifice to G-d. G-d does not ignore a broken heart.'\" (Psalms 51; Sanhedrin 43b)The lowly willow, by way of its true humility and its willingness to be influenced for the better by the other species, is elevated higher, higher until it serve G-d alone. For this purpose we have Hoshana Rabba. When we, in our exalted spiritual state on Hoshana Rabba, really feel that we are children of the King, there is no request that is too much. Then, without embarrassment, we can ask for anything - including the ultimate request: that soon the day will come when the whole world will be filled with the knowledge of G-d as the earth is covered with water, and He and His Name will be One, as we usher in the age of peace and prosperity.[This article was first published in B'Ohel Hatzadikim, Sukkot 5759]
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April 5, 2018 – Bestbuy Distributors' held their Shareholders Meeting and 65th Anniversary Celebration in Toronto on March 23rd, 2018. The two-day event brought together Bestbuy members from across Canada and vendors from across North America to celebrate the momentous milestone.
A highlight of the meeting was the 65th Anniversary gala dinner and show. The acclaimed Painchaud Family captivated the audience with their musical showmanship.
ProMax (Auto Parts Depot) was the recipient of the prestigious Horace J. Pratt 2017 Vendor of the Year in recognition of their excellence in service, sales performance and support as voted by the Bestbuy members. ProMax has received this award for the fourth straight year since 2014, and previously in 2010.
Other paramount vendor award categories announced: The Marketing Partner Award was presented to Mevotech, the Rising Star Award was received by Baldwin Filters and the Cornerstone Award went to Dorman Products.
A new vendor award category was introduced by Vice President Sales, Marketing & Product, Andy Murphy, called the Bestbuy Partner Award. The Bestbuy Partner Award is determined by Bestbuy's Management team and the inaugural recipient is Spectra Premium Industries.
The vendor presentations concluded with the significant and special William Elton Outstanding Support Award that was jointly bestowed to Brad Shaddick and Federal-Mogul Motorparts.
The organization also presented its annual contribution to support the SickKids Family Heart Centre which is among the top three heart centres in the world. Dr. Robert Hamilton and Dr. Mike Seed were on-hand to accept the $25,000 donation. Bestbuy has been supporting this worthy cause since 1986 and has contributed over $800,000.00 to-date.
During the evening, Bestbuy had the pleasure of presenting Service Recognition Awards to members: Heimpel Automotive, 50 years; Raco Auto Supply, 30 years; Distribution Mobus, 25 years; Ramez Faizan Enterprises (VAP), 25 years; Distribution De Pièces D'Autos Rive-Sud, 25 years; Pièces D'Auto Charron, 20 years; Les Pièces GR, 20 years; Gregg Distributors, 20 years; Pièces D'Auto Guy, 20 years; and Patterson's Parts Supply, 10 years.
The meetings and celebration concluded on Saturday with Bestbuy's annual trade event at their Mississauga distribution centre. It was a full house with over 90 vendor companies' on-hand eager to discuss new business developments directly with Bestbuy members.


I've started another 'stitch improv' piece. Or I guess you could call it a textile collage. I love making these. I love they can't be rushed. I have to find the right bits of fabric, the right embellishments and the right stitches. And I don't know when it will be finished until it is finished.
I've been wondering if maybe there's a wabi sabi element to these. I like to use bits of textile that are worn or a bit frayed around the edges. I cut the scraps by hand, not with a rotary cutter and ruler. I want the human hand to be visible.
The important thing is that at some point, all the element come together and create a whole that I couldn't imagine looking any differently, but I don't know exactly how it all came together.
It's very beautiful! I love oaks!


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Home LAPTOPS Upcoming Laptops 2019: What To Expect In Next Best Laptop
Upcoming Laptops 2019: What To Expect In Next Best Laptop
Upcoming Laptops 2019: What To Expect More?
What To Expect From Upcoming Laptops In 2019?
The PC industry has been interesting as always. Gadget lover might be keen to know what's coming next in laptops. So, Here is a list of laptops which might launch this year. It is expected to have a lot of changes to be seen in the upcoming laptops 2019 in terms of processors, GPUs and more.
The CES 2019, the giant consumer trade show will give a clearer look where companies such as Dell, HP, and Lenovo will unveil their lineups. 'Always-connected PC' is one of the major developments, introduced in 2018 though will be seen in 2019. These laptops promise to provide battery life for more than 20 hours and seamless 4G LTE wireless connectivity. All because of Qualcomm' Snapdragon processor. However, the processor was originally designed for smartphones.
Also Read: Lightweight laptops in india
For 2019, Qualcomm is ready to give such devices another shot by unveiling its new Snapdragon 8cx chipset. The new processor is specifically designed for laptops and claims to provide better performance.
Will 5G Be Introduced To Upcoming Laptops 2019?
It is too early to say that desktops will have 5G connectivity support. As of last year, Intel promised to bring 5g in 2019 in upcoming XMM 8000 series. The upcoming laptops with 5G are expected from brands like Dell, Lenovo, HP and more. If 5G will come it will enter the market in the second quarter or so. For now, the tech world is waiting to see how 5G transforms our smartphones. Further, it will be more exciting to see 5G working on PCs.
Here Is The List Of Best Laptops You Would Like To Choose From
1. LG Gram 17
LG announced two new laptops under its Gram series famous for offering good battery life and lightweight PCs. It is one of the lightweight laptops offering a large 17-inch display among most of the rival brands. It comes with a weight of 1.34kg. Further, it is powered by 8th Gen Core i7 processor. The Gram 17 is backed by a 72W battery which claims to last up to 19.5 hours of battery life on a single charge. In terms of storage, it comes packed with 8GB/16GB RAM and 256GB/512GB of internal storage.
Price For LG Gram 17: Rs 1.18 lakhs (approx)
2. Lenovo Yoga C930
The Lenovo Yoga C930 is a 2-in-1 convertible laptop on the list of upcoming laptops 2019. It is powered by 8th Gen Core i5-8250U processor. The laptop features a 13.9-inch display that comes with a resolution of 2840 x 2160 pixels. Further, It is equipped with a hard drive of 2 TB and a 16 DDR4 RAM. Now coming on to the battery, it is backed by Lion battery which claims to run for up to 14.5 hours or so.
Lenovo Yoga C930 Price: Rs 90,000 (approx)
3. Asus Zenbook Pro 15 (UX580GE)
The Zenbook Pro 15 comes with a 15.6 Inch LED-backlit 4K UHD display with a resolution of 3840 x 2160. It is powered by Intel Core i9 8th Gen Processor and 2.3 GHz processor. Along with these features, the laptop offers 16GB RAM. It uses a 1TB storage.
It comes with all-new ScreenPad which features a 5.5-inch Full HD IPS display with custom controls for apps like Microsoft Office and YouTube.
Asus Zenbook Pro 15 Price: Rs. 209,990 onwards
4. Dell Latitude 7285
Dell Latitude 7825 2-in-1 Convertible Laptop
Latitude 7285 is the 2-in-1 laptop which comes with wireless charging support. It can be charged wirelessly with the help of an optional wireless charging keyboard and mat. The detachable device features a 12.3-inch display with a resolution of 2880 x 1920 pixels. It offers 8GB RAM and an option for up to 256GB SSD storage. The Dell laptop runs Windows 10 Pro and comes with a 30-day Microsoft Office trial. Further, It uses a 45 watt USB Type-C adapter for charging.
Dell Latitude 7825 Price: Rs 77,500 onward The customers have to bear an additional cost for wireless charging keyboard and mat.
5. Microsoft Surface Go
The affordable Microsoft Surface Go is now available in India. However, It was available for pre-orders from December 2018.
Coming on to its specifications, the Microsoft Surface Go comes with a 10-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 1800 x 1200 pixels and an aspect ratio of 3:2. There is a 5-megapixel HD camera at the back and an 8-megapixel HD selfie camera. The laptop is powered by a 7th gen Intel Processor paired with Intel HD Graphics 615. It is available in two variants: 4GB RAM + 64GB storage and 8GB RAM + 128GB SSD.
Microsoft Surface Go Price: Rs 37,999 (4GB RAM) and Rs 49,999 (8GB RAM)
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The Anti Wave Universal wall goal is designed to fit a raised end wall or moveable bulk head. Configured to get the most out of restricted space and is excellent for training, social matches and competition below the international level.
The short wall goal has dimensions closed to FINA official size, better suited for training where mounted against a bulk head.
Fabricated from powder coated aluminum extrusions and hand laid fiberglass for durability and strength. The net is durable polypropylene cord, knitted at every intersection.
Dimensions are 124" x 23.62" x 40.35".
Comes with red net and blue canvas.


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Kia K900 First Drive: Are We Ready For a $65,000 Kia?
Roy Choi
Kia invited TechnoBuffalo to take a drive in the Kia K900 around Southern California for the day. And I mean AROUND Southern California. A 163 mile round trip. I enjoyed nearly every moment of that ride.
Note: This route is a great route if you ever want to take in a drive to test out different types of driving elements (e.g., freeway, surface streets, hills, sharp turns, etc.) It is simply a great leisurely drive.
You may have seen the Kia K900 commercial based on the Matrix films during this year's Super Bowl. This commercial is very deliberate and poses the question of choosing between traditional luxury and Kia's interpretation.
If you haven't seen it, check it out below.
Also I'm told there are 13 easter eggs in the commercial, let me know if you find them all.
First let's talk about the name: K900, why the alpha-numeric name for a car company that has typically stuck to monikers like Rio, Soul or Optima? For one, the Kia marketing team claims the target demographic associates luxury with alpha-number cars (think car names from BMW, Mercedes or Audi). While Kia could have named the car the K9 (as it is named so in Korea) and the Quoris (named so in other markets) it has chosen the K900 moniker for the U.S. market.
The Kia K900 is without a doubt a beautiful car. The designs are definitely rooted in Kia's existing design cues, though with a bit more sophistication. Certainly the wheelbase places the vehicle amongst large luxury vehicles. The K900 boasts a 119.9-inch wheelbase, just a tad shorter than its cousin the Hyundai Equus. The fully loaded V8 VIP K900 (priced at $65,500) will be available first while the base V6 model (priced at $50,000) will be introduced sometime later this year. While Kia calls the V6 a "base" model it certainly has most features you'd find as added options on other vehicles. We drove around in the V8 VIP model for the purpose of the first drive.
The K900 is an extremely nice car. While Kia targets the vehicle to compete against top of the line luxury models from BMW and Mercedes-Benz (7-Series, S550) that are priced $15,000 to $40,000 more than the K900. Though, one could argue folks that are forking out $120,000 for a car aren't necessarily looking for a bargain. So admittedly Kia is looking for a specific buyer, someone who enjoys luxury but isn't worried about branding or a certain stigma tied to a brand. Though, I'll explain later, Kia doesn't expect to sell many of these cars.
The K900 comes loaded with surround view, blind-spot detection, lane departure, customizable dashboards, and dozens of other luxury features. I would say my two favorite features have to be the adaptive cruise control and the HUD (Heads Up Display). The cruise control regulates the car speed, including braking to a complete stop. The K900 was an absolutely fun car to drive, this sentiment was shared by nearly every journalist gathered at this event. Then again the statement is followed up with, how does Kia change the customer perception of its brand? That is a hard formula to crack. It appears Kia is in it for the long haul. Even if it means a decade of little or no sales for this new flagship car. Kia's volume sales are strong for its low-end and mid-range vehicles, enough so that Kia announced last year it rolled out its 1 millionth car from its West Point, Georgia assembly factory.
A $65,500 Kia, Really?
It's a bit of an interesting problem. We live in a cynical world where people will question whether or not a Kia is worth $50,000-$65,500. I will say the car is absolutely a steal at $65,500, it looks nice, drives well, and has a bunch of tech that will make most gadget enthusiasts blush. It's fully loaded at $65,500. But would I buy one (if I even had the income to do so)? That's the million dollar question, or in this case the $65,500 one. In the consumer tech world, fans call each other out for buying devices just because it carries a certain brand or image. How many times have you read comments on social media, this site or others like it, regarding "Oh, Apple Fanboys, you're just buying into the name?" Yet I'm inclined to feel that those same critics won't bat an eye in regards to car brand affinity.
Does that sentiment means that people are willing to fork out more without the Kia branding? Well Kia quite frankly doesn't expect to sell the same quantity of cars as its Soul or Optima cars. But it wants these cars to be placed at a local Kia dealership and ask "Why the heck would you buy a $66,000 Kia?" Which I suppose is a great reason why Morpheous asks us to choose between the blue pill or the red pill. Then again it could be a hard pill to swallow at this price. At any rate, Kia looks to make these types of cars to change the perception of the brand itself and it knows it is in it for the long haul to get consumers to start thinking of Kia in a different way. It has worked for them thus far. Just look at how many Kias you see on the road today compared to a decade ago. For Kia there is very little additional cost to develop this car, it is being sold in other markets. As far as it is concerned the K900 could just sit in the U.S. market as a mere marketing halo, and Kia would be fine with as long as people know the car exists.
Drive Experience
Kia mapped out a really fun drive, having lived in Southern California my entire life, I can honestly tell you I've never driven this exact route. It started by driving down the California coast to open freeways, and some tight corners along some mountain roads. It was an absolute perfect route and it runs through the entire gamut of car driving elements.
The K900 on paper has the specifications most luxury cars hold. The model that we drove holds a 5.0 liter V-8 engine that puts out 420 horsepower with 376 pounds-feet of torque. It rides quite smoothly. As a driver the ride is very responsive, and you can choose to switch between a sportier mode that tightens up the drive a bit more, though you can't call this car a sports car. I think Kia itself tries to market away from the "sporty" branding so it doesn't directly compete with the sportier cars you'd find from more established European manufacturers. The K900 sits between a "floaty" drive and a sportier one, its not really the best in either category, but still ends up being pretty decent in both categories.
The corners! My goodness does the car drive well around the sharpest corners. Even though the K900 is a larger sedan, it handled quite nicely. I found it more enjoyable driving in sport mode during this portion of route.
The engine is extremely quiet, though you can get it to sound fairly menacing in a 0-60 mph situation. If you were to slap a European car brand on the car and were to drive it you wouldn't question its pedigree whatsoever.
As for passengers, the back seat is truly one of the most comfortable backseats on the market. With reclining seats and enough legroom to stretch out, in fact you could even push the front passenger's seat forward from controls in the back. Why? Because when you're the boss, you determine how much leg room you get. Of course there are the controls for climate control, and the arm rest/compartment has room for storage as well as charging ports.
The car drives smoothly like any luxury car should. It has decent pick up and while we've driven nearly the complete U.S. Kia Motors lineup of cars, each proceeding model surprises us. Probably because of the negative image the car manufacturer has held. But the most recent line-up of cars, of which Kia had seven new releases or redesigns in just 2014 (Cadenza, Optima, Sorrento, Soul, and three variants of the Forte), continues to surpass expectations.
I will admit it is a hard sell to purchase a Kia at $65,500, considering there are so many great options in the price point. Though who knows where Kia will stand in a decade, maybe buyers won't bat an eye at the sight of a $65,500 Kia. And you do have to admire how far Kia has come from its Sephia days. So I don't find it impossible to see Kia push out more luxury vehicles in the near future. I may even be inclined to own one if they are anywhere near as a nice as the K900.
Disclaimer: Kia invited us to a 3-day K900 First Drive event in Newport Beach, CA where we were briefed on the vehicle and were allowed to drive the vehicle for 4-5 hours.
Ensure you're prepared with the best emergency lights
Emergencies happen and when they do, it's best to have the right tools at your disposal. And when it comes to the right tools, a flashlight is both basic and essential when it comes to your safety.


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Abortion Battle Moves To Center Stage In Oregon
With an anti-abortion measure on the ballot and differences in the governor's race, abortion will be a hot-button issue in the next few months.
Dana Tims
Planned Parenthood supporters by Sarah Mirk CC.jpg
Planned Parenthood is among the groups that oppose an anti-abortion measure that will be on the ballot in Oregon in November. (Sarah Mirk/Creative Commons)
Only once in more than a decade have Oregon voters been asked to weigh in on abortion.
But now, driven by three distinct developments, abortion promises to take center stage politically in a state widely regarded as the most pro-choice in the nation.
Already, pro-choice groups such as Planned Parenthood and others are working to defeat a November ballot measure that would cut off public money for abortions. Anti-abortion forces, for their part, are just as adamant on the other side.
"Oregon is definitely an important part of the national conversation taking place right now regarding abortion," said Shivana Jorawar, state legislative counsel for the Center for Reproductive Rights, a pro-choice advocacy organization. "People will be watching closely to see what happens there."
A similar abortion debate is raging nationally, as dozens of states move to either expand or limit access to abortion. The upcoming U.S. Senate confirmation hearing for Judge Brett Kavanaugh, President Donald Trump's pick, is likely to stoke the debate further.
In Oregon, one trigger in the debate is an anti-abortion initiative that will be on the November ballot, the first one to qualify since a failed attempt in 2006 to require minors to get parental notice.
The current initiative which is backed by Oregon Life United, Measure 106, would amend the state Constitution to prohibit the use of state money to pay for abortions.
Forces both supporting and opposing the measure say they are already raising money and scrambling to build campaigns aimed at winning in November.
"Our whole issue is that we don't want to become the abortion capital of the world," said Marylin Shannon, a former two-time state senator and one of Measure 106's chief petitioners. "Many people are just finally tired of having that reputation and having our tax money spent that way."
Emily McLain, executive director of Planned Parenthood Advocates of Oregon, disagreed, saying, "What this comes down to is that it's a shared value that every person should be able to decide when to become a parent, no matter how much money they make."
McLain's organization is one of nearly two dozen that have joined forces as the No Cuts to Care Coalition. McLain promised a "robust effort that will touch every part of the state."
Oregon is among 17 states nationally that allow state money to pay for abortions, according to the Guttmacher Institute, an independent research group that collects research on abortion and related topics. It's also the only state that places no restrictions on abortion access or timing.
For the fiscal year 2017-18, the state, through the Oregon Health Authority, spent just over $1.9 million to cover costs for lower-income women to obtain 3,593 abortions, according to health authority data. That came out to about $537 per procedure.
It's this category of abortions that would be affected if Measure 106 passes.
Differences In Governor's Race
A second piece of the debate over abortion is already heating up the governor's race between Democratic incumbent Kate Brown and her challenger, state Rep. Knute Buehler, R-Bend.
Both Brown and Buehler describe themselves as pro-choice. Any hint of an agreement on the contentious issue ends there.
"During the primary, Buehler often said he opposes public funding for abortion services unless they are deemed medically necessary, which is language identical to Measure 106," said Christian Gaston, the Brown campaign's communications director. "Ever since, he's been trying to run away from his legislative record which, thankfully, isn't going to go away."
Buehler, during a recent news conference live-streamed on Facebook, said he will vote no on the measure. His campaign has insisted that Brown is attacking him as anti-choice in an effort to distract voters from her own record.
"She obviously views this as the only place for her to drive a wedge," said Monica Wroblewski, the Buehler campaign's spokeswoman. "It's pretty clear that it's not going to work."
Asked if Buehler's opposition to the measure might harm him with anti-abortion Republicans, she added, "If you're a single-issue candidate and this is your one issue, you aren't going to vote for Knute. But what he's seeing on the trail is that people are just yearning for change."
Shannon, the measure's co-sponsor, said she's already hearing from some traditionally anti-abortion Republicans who say they will focus their energies this time on races other than the governor's contest.
"A lot of people I've talked with say they won't help him," Shannon added. "I'm trying to get them to look at the larger picture."
A third factor jutting into Oregon's abortion politics this year is the upcoming U.S. Senate confirmation hearing from Judge Brett Kavanaugh, who was nominated by Trump to fill the seat of retiring Justice Anthony Kennedy.
"It's just really interesting to see these three events all lining up at the same time," said John Horvick, vice president and political director with DHM Research, a Portland polling firm. "It's definitely something we'll need to pay attention to."
Until now, Horvick said, abortion has been such a settled issue in Oregon that he's not heard a single client even mention it.
"Given everything we're seeing out there now, however, that's likely to change," he said. "Especially now that it's on the ballot, I'm sure we and a lot of other folks will be addressing it sooner than later."
Outcome Difficult to Predict
With campaigns for and against the measure still ramping up, it's too soon to predict which way voters will ultimately lean, said Jim Moore, a political science professor and director of the Tom McCall Center for Policy Innovation at Pacific University.
"If it ends up being viewed as a Democrats versus Republicans political issue, it's not going to pass," he said. "But, with budgets now under so much stress, if it's framed as a public funding issue, it could pass."
In providing some context, Moore reached back more than three decades, to when Oregon's last Republican governor, Vic Atiyeh, had to confront the then-new political reality launched by the U.S. Supreme Court's landmark Roe vs. Wade ruling, which made abortion legal in the country.
"Atiyeh was personally anti-abortion, but he said, if it's legal, public money must be spent so everyone would have access to it," Moore said. "He took that stand just as the Reagan people were coming in who said 'no' to abortion in any way, shape or form.
"What we're seeing now is a fascinating historical twist. It will be amazing to watch this all play out as we head to November."
You can reach Dana Tims at [email protected].
abortion, planned parenthood, Kate Brown, Knute Buehler, pro-choice
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TT Logistics (Australasia) Site Visit – Tuesday, 20 October 2015
October 30, 2015 /in National, VIC /by de Klerk, Fran
TT Logistics in conjunction with the SCLAA held a successful, informative and enjoyable site tour at their Laverton North facility. Mr Ross Jacob the General Manager, Mr Patrick Ingenegeren, the Senior Manager Business Development and Mr Gavyn Mickleson, the Logistics Analyst, displayed undeniable skill at showcasing the impressive premises and articulating the processes, capability and services that the Laverton North DC handles for both customers in the automotive and non-automotive space with precision.
The logistics centre in Melbourne is 25,059 square metres and what was clearly evident from the presentation was not only the size, but the disciplined culture epitomised by the application of Toyota Production Systems (TPS). This was clearly demonstrated on the factory floor, where two large tour groups were given an impressive insight into the operational activity and handling processes of SME's and multinationals around Australia and Overseas.
Mr Ross Jacob held everyone's attention and delighted the packed boardroom and on the warehouse floor with intelligence and wit. Having an impressive background, Mr Jacob has held senior management positions at companies such as TNT and Linfox and with over 35 years experience in the industry showcased his knowledge of complex supply chains.
Apparent from the tour and commented on by members and guests was that everything was clean, each section had a specific function running on schedule and that all employees were fully engaged encompassing the Kaizan culture to achieve operational excellence. Efficiency, Safety, Housekeeping, Quality and Environment are disciplined practices continually addressed and a small snapshot of these being put into action was visualized on the tour. With the active participation of staff and management taking responsibility for their area of expertise efficiencies result. But it is the encouraged liaison between all stakeholders to improve the processes and company that is beneficial to all. The group remained impressed by the seamless methods applied in practice.
The new facility in Derrimut is another string to TTL's bow and covers 12,000 square metres operating 24/7 with other centres throughout Australasia including Adelaide, Brisbane and Sydney. Facilities in other capital cities service some of Australia's biggest accounts such as Electrolux in Orange; another impressive facility of 11,500 square meters. A large number of blue chip customers receive individual logistics solutions handled expertly in Inventory Management, Continuous Improvement (Kaizen), Quality and Environmental Management with TPS providing efficient logistics solutions and cost savings.
A state of the art Warehouse Management System accurately also accounts for TT Logistics impressive track record. Guaranteeing 100% inventory accuracy has brought the company the benefits of expanding its footprint, combining excellence with cross functional operations. TPS enables projects to be productively achieved at minimal costs to the array of clientele by utilizing (JIT) Just-In-Time and 5S methods.
TT Logistics Overseas Operations include Japan, Asia, Europe, Middle East, Africa, Oceania, North America and Central & South America. Impressive in its Global Supply Chain Solutions TT Logistics will continue to service its customers by driving these processes/values and distribution practices throughout further regions of the world.
More information regarding this impressive company can be found by visiting their website https://www.ttlogistics.com.au/ Additional information can also be found on TT Logistics/Business in Focus Magazine link https://www.businessinfocus.com.au/index.php/2011/11/tt-logistics/
On behalf of the Supply Chain & Industry Association of Australia we would like to formally thank Mr. Ross Jacob and all the team at TT Logistics for their hospitality, providing lunch, giving up their valuable time and providing an excellent insight into what it takes to achieve global supply chain excellence. SCLAA looks forward to collaborating with TT Logistics (Australasia) well into the future.
https://sclaa.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/SCLAA-Logo-and-PS-hi-res-300x101.jpg 0 0 de Klerk, Fran https://sclaa.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/SCLAA-Logo-and-PS-hi-res-300x101.jpg de Klerk, Fran2015-10-30 06:47:582019-08-02 12:33:03TT Logistics (Australasia) Site Visit - Tuesday, 20 October 2015
Inspiring Lunch and Site Visit for Women in Supply Chain Introducing SCLAA's New National Partner – 2K Container Service...


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MD Anderson and Ipsen advance new therapy with potential benefit for underserved patients with lung and ovarian cancers
In a first-time disclosure of IPN60090, a small-molecule inhibitor of the metabolic enzyme glutaminase (GLS1),
Q BioMed Inc. (OTCQB: QBIO), a commercial stage biotech company, today announced that together with
BGI Group helping over 80 countries for timely COVID-19 detection and intervention
Global genomics developer, BGI Group has produced more than 10 million of its Real-Time SARS-CoV-2 tests,
Immunotherapy effective in metastatic prostate cancers with specific markers of immune activation
By Staff Reports 10 months ago
Although metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) typically has limited response to immunotherapy, a subset of
FDA clears emergency use of malaria drug, Chloroquine to treat COVID-19
The Food and Drug Administration has authorized the emergency use of two malaria drugs seen
Researchers explore potential of highly sensitive point-of-care tests for novel coronavirus detection
As testing for the coronavirus continues throughout the United States, researchers have been closely watching
Experiments in Mice And Human Cells Shed Light On Best Way to Deliver Nanoparticle Therapy For Cancer
Researchers in the cancer nanomedicine community debate whether use of tiny structures, called nanoparticles, can
Patients with More Severe Forms of Coronavirus Disease Could Offer Clues to Treatment
Hundreds of clinicians worldwide are banding together in an effort to study some types of severe cases
UC San Diego Partners with 5 Leading Diagnostics Manufacturers to Boost COVID-19 Testing
Partnering with five leading in vitro diagnostics manufacturers, an interdisciplinary team of scientists and physicians
COVID-19 recommendations for patients receiving anti-cancer immunotherapies
We should all be doing our best to keep from catching COVID-19, if not for
FDA-approved drugs could help fight COVID-19
Drugs that are already approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) could hold
Aqualung Therapeutics Advances Its Investigational Monoclonal Antibody into Ind-Enabling Studies of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) And Ventilator-Induced Lung Injury (VILI)
Aqualung Therapeutics Corporation is developing ALT-100, a therapeutic monoclonal antibody, to combat serious unchecked inflammation.
Biotech Launches Development of Immunotherapy to Treat COVID-19 Coronavirus Infection
Cancer immunotherapy developer, CEL-SCI Corporation is working on an immunotherapy with the potential to treat the COVID-19
Radiology May Help in Detecting COVID-19 in Patients Affected
While COVID-19, previously known as the novel coronavirus, was first reported in China, it was
Combination of engineered cold sore virus and inhibitor drugs could destroy brain tumors
Researchers who discovered that an engineered cold sore virus could help destroy brain tumors from
Radiation therapy for patients with colon cancer works better with discovery of specific protein blocking
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis appear to have discovered a
Researchers find drug combination that can accelerate bone healing
U.K. and U.S. scientists have discovered a combination of two commonly available drugs could boost
Biotech Moderna Ships mRNA Vaccine Against Novel Coronavirus Human Studies
Moderna, Inc.,has released the first batch of mRNA-1273, the Company's vaccine against the novel coronavirus,
New discovery betters development of immunotherapies for breast cancer treatment
New cancer immunotherapy approaches are revolutionizing treatment options for breast cancer patients. However, many lead
John Theurer Cancer Center Launches Clinical Trial of Personalized Cancer Vaccine Using New Gene-Based Technology for High-Risk Melanoma
John Theurer Cancer Center at Hackensack University Medical Center is the only site in New


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Shock-and-awe pandemics
By Ken Grafton | Opinion | May 11th 2020
#537 of 1611 articles from the Special Report: Coronavirus in Canada
The speed and scope of significant change in times of crisis create a psychological state in the public that facilitates change acceptance. Photo: Shutterstock
Renowned draconian economist Milton Friedman famously observed, "Only a crisis — actual or perceived — produces real change. When that crisis occurs, the actions that are taken depend on the ideas that are lying around." Recognition of this reality led to a new political-economic paradigm called "disaster capitalism."
Coined by Naomi Klein in her 2007 book The Shock Doctrine: The Rise of Disaster Capitalism, disaster capitalism may be defined as the practice of taking advantage of a major disaster to adopt policies the population would be less likely to accept under normal circumstances. It is a tactic conceived by Friedman at the Chicago School of Economics. Known as "economic shock treatment," or "shock therapy," it predicts that the speed and scope of significant change in times of crisis create a psychological state in the public that facilitates change acceptance. Any port in a storm.
There is also typically an element of the misdirection theatrical magicians term "sleight of hand." It can be difficult to keep your eye on the political ball when a Category 5 hurricane has just blown your house away, the levee has broken, battle tanks are rolling through town or the impending doom of a terrifying pandemic are featured 24-7 in every news media source on the planet. Fear focuses our attention in the way increased adrenaline levels caused by the "fight or flight" response to danger can cause tunnel vision. The roar of Panthera leo close by in the African night, a charging bull elephant or the rattle of a diamondback. The lizard part of our brain blocks out information it determines unimportant to survival in the moment. Shock doctrine insidiously exploits our Pliocene Darwinian biology for political and economic gain.
The military application of shock doctrine has a lengthy history. The U.S. National Defence University Institute for Strategic Studies publication Shock and Awe — Achieving Rapid Dominance outlines tactics dating back to Sun Tzu in 500 BC: "Shock and awe are actions that create fears, dangers and destruction that are incomprehensible to the people at large, specific elements/sectors of the threat society, or the leadership. Nature in the form of tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, uncontrolled fires, famine and disease can engender shock and awe." The term was popularized by the Bush administration in 2003, selling an invasion of Iraq.
Klein described a brutal and recurring tactic by right-wing governments: "After a shocking event — a war, coup, terrorist attack, market crash or natural disaster — they exploit the public's disorientation, suspend democracy, push through radical free-market policies that enrich the (one per cent) at the expense of the poor and middle class." Previously unsellable policies are suddenly justified in crisis.
Historical examples abound: Pinochet's coup in Chile in 1973, the Falklands War in 1982, the Tiananmen Square Massacre in 1989, the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, the Asian financial crisis in 1997, the World Trade Centre in 2001, hurricane Katrina in 2005 were all devasting events followed by the implementation of radical free-market agendas such as bailouts, privatization, outsourcing, tax change, torture, eavesdropping and suspension of democracy. Income tax was introduced in Canada as a temporary war measure in 1917.
The current COVID-19 pandemic presents the next opportunity to break out "one per cent" back-shelf policies gathering dust in anticipation of just the right moment to slide one by distracted taxpayers.
While the world cowers in isolation under a blanket of intense media fearmongering and government-ordered closures, U.S. President Donald Trump is dusting off some old ideas — such as a suspension of the payroll tax, which could bankrupt social security, providing the excuse to cut it or privatize it completely. This idea has been lying around for a long time. President George W. Bush pushed for it. So did Joe Biden during his time as a senator. Corporate bailouts have been discussed. Trump has already said taxpayers will be kicking in: "We are working very closely with the cruise-line industry, likewise with the airline industry. They're two great industries, and we'll be helping them through this patch." By "we," he means the taxpayers. Extending this to the hospitality industry could provide financial benefit to him personally. The president has also met with health-insurance companies, likely to discuss further bailouts.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced Canadian taxpayers will provide a $82-billion aid package — more than three per cent of annual GDP — which includes $55 billion in tax deferrals to help businesses.
Speculation is now rampant in the media regarding probable change following COVID-19, and social media commentary suggests there is a general acceptance amongst the population things will never be the same again. The climate is therefore prime for the implementation of disaster-capitalism policies.
"The current COVID-19 pandemic presents the next opportunity to break out 'one per cent' back-shelf policies gathering dust in anticipation of just the right moment to slide one by distracted taxpayers."
Expect sweeping legislative change in the months to come.
Beware the omnibus.
Ken Grafton
Alberta premier calls energy transition an 'ideological scheme'
By Emma McIntosh | News, Politics | April 24th 2020
Legacy of liabilities
Canada's murky bailout deal for oil and gas will cost us all
By Dianne Saxe | Opinion | April 21st 2020
Essential or exception: Whose rights matter in a pandemic?
By Jesse Firempong & Priyanka Vittal | Opinion | April 20th 2020
Naomi Klein has written about
Graham Mulligan | Mon, 05/11/2020 - 06:44
Naomi Klein has written about this very issue in The Intercept. Search for 'Screen New Deal'.
I like the reference to Harper's use of Omnibus budget bills that buried anti-environmental laws and structural changes to Canadian legal fabric. We all watched , helpless as this occurred before our eyes, knowing that the only tools available to stop the attack were being attacked.


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ISO 639 is an international standard which lists short codes for language names.
In other words, there are two-letter codes and three-letter codes (sorted by language name in the third column!). For 22 languages exist two 3-letter-codes. The first is bibliographic (ISO 639-1/B) the second for terminological (ISO 639-2/T) use.


text:
Cordium (formerly IMS)
Liberty Corporate Finance advised Sovereign Capital on the Institutional Buy Out of The IMS Group, a leading provider of consulting and integrated business support to the wholesale asset management and securities industry.
IMS' core service offering is regulatory compliance consulting to UK regulated financial services firms. Alongside this, IMS provides related services including hosted regulatory permissions, due diligence, compliance training, risk management and recruitment. It also offers accounting, taxation and administration services through IMS Buzzacott, a joint venture with the top 30 niche accounting firm Buzzacott LLP, and US regulatory consulting through IMS Consulting (US) LLC based in New York. Since it was established in 1997, London-based IMS has grown significantly. IMS supports more than 400 investment businesses, ranging from established global firms to start-ups. Its clients include many of the world's largest hedge fund managers, private equity firms, fund of funds managers, family offices and institutional pension fund managers.
Liberty were appointed by Sovereign Capital to advise on the transaction, assist with debt raising, provide experienced support to the management and deal with transaction issues and general project management.
IMS has developed a reputation as the premium regulatory compliance provider in its market, with a client-led, rather than product-led, approach and rigorous client service standards. As the company focuses solely on the wholesale asset management and securities sectors, it can bring direct and relevant experience when advising its clients. Funding has been provided by the UK Private Equity Buy and Build specialist Sovereign Capital to support the acquisitive growth of IMS and a new CEO has been recruited, Michel van Leeuwen, to work alongside IMS's existing management team. Steve Thomson, Director and Co-owner of Liberty commented: "Liberty is pleased to work alongside Sovereign Capital again and provide deal support on their acquisition of IMS. This concludes a successful year for Liberty representing our fourth deal of 2010 advising on Private Equity Transactions totalling over £170million and the award of Dealmaker of the Year prize at Insider's Central & East of England Dealmakers Awards 2010." Neil Cox, Investment Director at Sovereign Capital commented: "At an early stage in the transaction we recognised that Liberty, with its proven track record in this niche, would be able to provide valuable support to us and the management team of IMS in the deal process. I was very appreciative of all of the work they did, their professionalism and attention to detail."
RBS Worldpay


text:
Highlights of the Shanghai Motor Show
The Shanghai Motor Show opens its doors to the general public from this Friday, April 21 to the next day. At the Asian event, SUVs and electric vehicles will be able to copy the brand stands, knowing that there is no better scenario for Show off its electric potential than China, the world's leading car market.
The year 2016 again finished with a record of 24.38 million cars sold (15% more than in 2015), while registrations of all types of vehicles rose 14% to 28.03 million units. In addition, last year sales of electric and hybrid vehicles soared 53% to slightly exceed half a million units. An excellent context to uncover some prototypes that will be imminent on the roads and that already denote that qualitative jump with respect to the zero emissions models that exist today.
Volkswagen I.D. Crozz
The ID. Crozz appeared in
Shagái and is born as the third member of Volkswagen's family of electric cars, the I.D. It is a SUV coupe of 4,625 meters in length, 1,891 meters wide and 1,609 meters high that will have an autonomy of 500 kilometers and with capacity to develop an autonomous driving.
Audi e-tron Sportback concept
The e-tron Sportback concept is a SUV with 100% electric coupe style with an autonomy of more than 500 kilometers. Its arrival in the market is foreseen for 2019, a year after it does the todocamino e-tron.
Renault concept car R.S. 2027
The gala company announced its vision about the future of Formula 1 through the concept car R.S. 2027, a prototype of a single-seater that expresses in six keys how it sees the signature gala the competition within ten years. Renault commemorates, in addition, its 40 years in the Great Circus.
Skoda Vision E
It is the first electric concept of the Czech firm. We talk about a SUV coupe five-door, with a maximum autonomy of 500 kilometers and reaching a level 3 autonomous driving: makes decisions in traffic jams, enters autopilot mode, remains centered in its lane, either in straight or In light curves, performs overtaking and searches himself for free parking spaces, etc …
The Chinese brand has introduced NIO ES8, an all-electric seven-seater SUV. It will reach the Chinese market later this year and the first deliveries will be made in early 2018. At the moment, it is unknown whether its marketing will extend to more countries.
Mercedes Concept A Sedan
The signature of the star has won the young clientele with the concept A Sedan presented in Shangái. It measures 4.57 meters, has a body of three bodies and anticipates the features of the next generation of compact. This model is one of the great novelties of the Hall.
Citroën has presented its new SUV for the compact segment, the C5 Aircross, at Shangái Motor Show. The first market to reach will be Chinese in the second half of this year, while in Europe it will land by the end of 2018.
Lynk & Co 03
The new Geely brand, owner of Volvo since 2010, presented its new model, a connected sedan with the goal of "offering a high quality product, unrivaled in technology, with connectivity as a reference, and an identity Single brand ".
Jaguar Land Rover also joined the trend with its Jaguar I-Pace SUV model, which will be on sale in the second half of 2018; Bentley, which introduced its EXP 12 Speed 6e electric models and the hybrid Bentayga SUV, which will also hit the market next year; Mitsubishi with the GT-PHEV Concept, a high-end plug-in hybrid SUV; The Kia K2 Cross; The new Hyundai ix35; And the Chinese BYD unveiled the Dynasty electric SUV prototype.
EL ECONOMISTA – David Galán – 21/04/2017


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text:
Chapter Fifteen: For Mysanhal
WHEN Tyg arrived at the lodge, the Yewolyns had been eating their evening meal. After a day of training, they were covered in dust. Some were blood-stained and bruised. Others were triumphant and boasting. The banter faded as one by one they became aware of the Magus. A grim hush weighed upon them.
"As you were," she said, her voice booming and fierce in the stillness.
The Yewolyns bent their heads, returning to their conversations and meals. Several of her mages raised their fists to their hearts in a somber show of respect. They did not know of their dead companions yet, and it pained her to think of delivering the news.
As Tyg strode through the main hall, she saw Gallant Myrdah stand. His heavy footsteps followed after her, but she did not bother slowing her pace until she passed into the portico outside. There, she waited beside one of the columns and gazed up at the sky. The sunset had deepened into a copper glow.
The doors opened, and Myrdah joined her, leaning on the other side of the column. "The Valor requested our audience as soon as you returned."
"Of course," she said.
"I take it you know the girl is missing."
"Not missing anymore. I found her," she said as they began to walk side by side toward Callum's quarters. "We will be needing a new kitchen master."
"His brother also caused some trouble while you were away."
"Cyn?"
"Yes, but I will let your husband recount that story. I was hoping I could speak candidly with you before we meet with the Valor."
They halted and faced each other. Tyg gave a sharp nod.
"A sylv sent a golem here, to the lodge. I cannot ignore such a bold move. They are regaining their power. You were right. But I do not believe Queen Innes intends on taking action, and Valor Marigen will stand by her." The giant dren rested his palm against the top of his sword's hilt. "Where do you stand, Magus?"
"I stand for Mysanhal. I did not endure the mage's trials to watch our strength crumble at the hands of a weak ruler. The sylv will be dealt with, Myrdah."
"Then we are allies in this." He held up a hand, and she clasped it in agreement. "I will not doubt you a second time."
"Thank you, Gallant." Pride swelled in her chest. Myrdah did not admit his wrong easily, and she was pleased to have his support. Callum would have no choice but to see reason.
They went to the Valor's quarters. Callum wore a stony expression and regarded them both with a frown. "Tyg," he began, but she already knew the words on his tongue.
"I found the girl wandering the market district. It is taken care of." She traced a line of road on the map before him. "Let us discuss the sylv."
"There is nothing to discuss. I have spoken to Queen Innes. She desires peace, not war. You are not to provoke the sylv, Magus Marigen," said Callum.
Tyg lifted her chin. "A sylv killed three of our mages yesterday, and there were three more golems. She was young, too young to have learned such magic without a teacher. Innes does not understand the threat."
Myrdah turned to her. Only his gaze revealed his surprise. "You returned alone," he said as if he had just realized it.
"Yes." She tugged a pouch free of her belt and loosened the tie. Then, she dumped the three silver hearts onto the table. She watched their expressions shift between shock and horror. "Such alchemy cannot be allowed to exist in Mysanhal. It is dangerous, dark."
The news appeared to weigh heaviest on her husband. He sat down in his chair and fell silent.
This time, Myrdah spoke. "Valor, our queen is wise, but this is—an unexpected development. We must look into it."
"It was one sylv, and she is dead now. We will continue to be vigilant, but we must not overreact." Callum's voice was flat and empty of conviction.
Tyg seized her chance. "Vigilant? It was my scout who reported—"
The Valor slammed his fist against the table. "Your scout is probably dead. A golem was sent in her place. None of this would have happened had you left the sylv alone."
"So, we wait until there's another attack? Another spy?" said Myrdah.
"We will wait until our queen sees it fit to take action."
"When did you become so weak-willed, husband?" Tyg growled.
Callum's gaze became flinty, his voice low. "Do not forget your place, Magus."
A stream of vicious spells flooded Tyg's mind. Her fingers curled at her sides. She wanted to strike him with a curse, to remind him of her strength. Instead, she spat on the floor and stormed from the room.
Anger burned in her chest. She hardly saw the faces that turned toward her as she swept back through the main hall. To quell the rising energy, she shot her hand out and shouted a spell. The doors to the lodge burst open violently, thudding against the walls. A stunned silence followed her down the steps.
She could not easily forgive Callum, and her fury threatened to consume her. Thinking an offering would clear her mind, she set off toward the temple. Perhaps Cree would send guidance as he had when Odharan sought to destroy the sylv.
Aside from the palace, the temple was the largest building in the royal city. Its sweeping architecture and colored glass windows looked marvelous by day. By night, the stained glass shone out to the world, and the halls felt otherworldly.
Incense and candle smoke spiced the air. Mosaics lined archways and swirled beneath her feet in rich blues, greens, reds, purples, and golds. Even Innes's palace could not compare to the temple's jewel-like wonder.
In vivid detail, master painters had created scenes telling the story of Cree, their horned god. From his conception in the darkness of Ether to the war against his sisters and brothers, his saga stretched across the ceiling. His strength when he fought the mountain god, Eldrys, and silenced the volcanic Mount Lenali. His cunning when he trapped Kadypha, the sly goddess of the unknown, and gave the fae of Rioc magic. His conquering of Pylis, the spirit realm, where he created a kingdom for the dead. She knew the stories by heart. Her mother told them to her when she was a girl.
The altar was a magnificent tree made of gold. Its bark and leaves were so finely detailed that it almost appeared to be alive. In the flickering candlelight, its branches and leaves seemed to shift as if touched by a gentle breeze. No one quite knew how it came to be. No living artisan could match such craftsmanship, even with magic.
Beneath the tree stood a marble statue of Cree. He held a stone orb in one hand and from his head sprouted two elegant antlers. At his feet were dozens of small, shallow bowls made of copper. It was there that his worshipers knelt and made their offerings.
Tyg stepped up to the altar and pressed the tip of her knife against her finger. Then, she squeezed a drop into one of the bowls. She asked for a vision, an omen, a guide. But when she closed her eyes, all she saw were the dull, orange shadows of flames.
She prayed for victory instead.
Time crawled, and her thoughts began to wander. At last, she rose and made her way back toward the entrance.
As she began to descend the steps outside, she spotted the dren from Innes's dinner party. He stood in the middle of the steps with a book open in one hand. Just as jovial as the night they met, he snapped the book shut when he saw her.
"Magus Tyg Marigen! A pleasure to see you a second time. You look …" Beneath her glare, his merriment faded, but only a little. "Troubled."
Her frown deepened. "What are you doing here?"
"I am … close to Cree," he said with a puckish smile. "May I walk with you, Magus?"
"If you'd like to keep your tongue, then no."
"A pity. I was told you are a master transformationist. I would love to hear your perspective on Casyan and Auldymere."
"Perhaps I could demonstrate."
Book still in one hand, he held his arms out. "Well, if you must, but I'm already an ugly, old goat."
A smile flitted so quickly through Tyg's expression that Maol might have missed it had he blinked. She brushed past him. "Have you read Casyan and Auldymere then?"
"Yes," he said, bounding to her side. "Several times, in fact. They had their differences, but I am an admirer of both."
"Yes, but Auldymere revolutionized the art."
"He was a romantic, though. I don't think you would have liked him much."
"You talk as if you knew him."
"We met a few times."
"That would make you—"
"Quite old, yes."
Tyg stopped. "Who did you say you were?"
"Maol Becanan. A merchant by trade."
She studied him more carefully than before and then began to descend the steps again. He kept pace beside her.
"You must be pissing glamour to look like that," she said.
"It is second nature by now."
"You probably are an ugly, old goat."
Steadfast in his good humor, he gestured like a thespian as he spoke. "Wasn't it Auldymere who said glamour is the reimagining of one's soul? An exploration of both self-expression and the discipline of self-control."
Though impressed by his knowledge, Tyg did not spare him so much as a glance as she said, "You're right. Too much of a romantic."
After that, they fell into easy conversation and wandered the streets of Tirnan. Tyg lost track of time as they discussed the subtleties of Casyan's philosophy on visualization, Auldymere's extensive experiments, and the work of other mages who had left impressions upon them.
Maol spoke eloquently but not without the bubbling energy that had captivated Innes and her dinner guests. He drifted into tales of travel. As a merchant, he made most of his wealth by acquiring and selling rare artifacts and magical objects. He claimed to have a knack for stumbling upon such curiosities.
"You are a surprising character," Tyg said and cast her gaze up at the moon. It was waning but still bright in the crisp, night air.
"What do you mean?" he asked with an amused little chuckle.
"You are well read and well-traveled. I would not have guessed it after our first meeting."
"Ah, I'm relieved that it's a compliment. You do not seem to give those generously."
"I do not." She turned to him, a determined gleam in her eyes. "Have you spent much time traversing the Wastelands?"
"Of course. Did you know there's quite the population of impkins? Their teeth are useful to enchanters, but they're not easy to get. Of course, that just means enchanters are willing to pay more."
"Have you encountered any sylvn clans?"
He gave a thoughtful nod and scratched at his chin. "Yes, I'm afraid so. They give merchants plenty of trouble. Of course, that has been good for business in a way. Raise the stakes, raise the price."
"What sort of trouble?"
"If you're going to interrogate me, Magus, I insist we do this over drinks."
"Answer my question," she said, her voice a low warning.
"Magus Marigen, there's no need to intimidate me into further conversation." He pointed to a tea stand on the nearby corner. "Walk with me, and I will tell you about the sylv I have encountered."
Before Tyg could argue, he strolled toward the teamonger. She caught up to him in a few swift strides. "You are infuriating," she hissed.
"I am thirsty. Would you like some tea?" He opened his coin purse and fished out a copper piece.
The teamonger was already pouring two cups of the creamy tea with a ladle. He eyed the Yewolyn warily as he held out a steaming cup. She glowered but took it all the same.
Once Maol paid, they found a place to sit along one of the benches beside the stall. The warm, spiced scent of the tea filled Tyg's nose. She set the small cup beside her.
"How many sylv are left?" she asked.
"How should I know? I've only ever seen a few at a time." With his first sip, he sucked in his breath and grumbled that it was too hot. "I wouldn't worry about them too much, Magus. They're nothing but scavengers, looking for food and supplies."
"So I've heard."
"But you don't believe it?"
She could not tell him about the sylvn alchemist or how she had found the golems. She chose her words carefully. "There are other rumors."
"Ah, so you've heard about the seid."
"A seid?" Her eyes narrowed. "There's no such thing."
Maol shrugged. "Stranger, darker things have come out of the Ether before. At least a seid was once fae."
"Such spellcraft is only theory. No mage has been foolish enough to try it."
As Maol began to speak, a scream pierced the night air. They both leapt to their feet. Tyg watched as fae surged toward the plaza where the crossing lay. Forgetting about the merchant and the tea, she made her way to the crowd and began to push through them.
"You will stand back!" she bellowed.
An eerie hush settled over the throng of nervous fae. Their eyes dropped, and as they parted, she understood their panic.
It was her scout, a young, swift dren called Ayla. If not for the Yewolyn markings tattooed along her arms, Tyg would not have recognized her. Her elk cloak had been stripped away. Dark bruises and cuts covered her skin. Chunks of hair had been ripped from her head. But that was not what summoned the frightened scream.
The Yewolyn scout's eyes had been carved from her head, her ears cut off, and her tongue slashed from her mouth. She was crawling across the stone circle, her hands searching ahead of her.
"Get a healer!" Tyg shouted as she stepped onto the circle. She dropped to her knees beside Ayla and gently touched her shoulder. "You're in Tirnan. You're safe. Can you hear me?"
But the injured Yewolyn seemed unaware of Tyg's presence. She made no sound. Not when Tyg tried to speak to her. Not when the healer arrived. Not when they helped her to her feet and guided her through the lamplit streets. Her body felt cold and lighter than it should have.
The city became a blur of concerned faces and low whispers. Though none knew how the scout had come to be so disfigured, Tyg felt a crushing sense of guilt for what had become of Ayla. The young mage had volunteered eagerly to investigate the sylv. She had been talented and would have risen through the ranks faster than many of her peers. If Tyg had known Ayla would be facing alchemists, she would have sent a more practiced mage.
Once they reached the healing ward, a few thachwings took over. Though none of them said it, Tyg knew Ayla would not last the night. Not because she would die but because she had already died. She was nothing more than the reanimated shell of a fae that would fade before the light of dawn. Tyg was certain the corpse had been a message, one meant for her.
As she left the healing ward, the sylvn girl's words returned to her. Don't worry, Magus Marigen. They will find you.
"Magus?" Maol stood outside, his hands folded behind his back and concern written across his features.
"I—" Words evaded her, and she shook her head. "I didn't realize you followed."
"I thought it best to stay out of the way." His gaze flickered to the healing ward's doors, and he let out a long, sad sigh. "I know the work of an alchemist when I see it."
"As do I," she said, her voice distant and soft.
"I am sorry to hear it, Magus Marigen. You must be devastated."
"Devastated?" Tyg scoffed. "I am furious, Maol. Mysanhal's greatest enemy is regaining power, and our queen will do nothing about it."
It was more than she had meant to say, and to her great irritation, Maol's lips spread into a gentle smile. "It seems Mysanhal is in good hands."
"Good hands? You think Innes—"
He cut her off. "I was referring to you, Tyg Marigen. You do not strike me as the sort to sit idly by when there is a threat. This is why you were asking me about the sylv, is it not?"
In answer, she gave a short nod.
A mischievous look glittered in his eyes as he spoke. "I have little to tell myself, but I have many friends. I will ask around, Magus." Then, he gave a slight bow and left her standing in front of the healing ward before she could say anything else.
Tyg almost called after him, but she thought better of it when she saw a few bystanders gossiping nearby. At least Tirnan had seen some measure of truth that night. Let them talk, she thought. Innes would not be able to ignore her people forever.
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