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Ninja Gaiden 3 (2012)
Posted by Sam Derboo on December 20, 2012
Ninja Gaiden 3 / Ninja Gaiden 3: Razor's Edge - Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 (2012)
This entry is part 12 of 15 in the series Ninja Gaiden
Ninja Gaiden (Arcade)
Ninja Gaiden (NES)
Ninja Gaiden II (NES)
Ninja Gaiden III (NES)
Ninja Gaiden Shadow
Ninja Gaiden (Game Gear)
Ninja Gaiden (Master System)
Ninja Gaiden (Genesis)
Ninja Gaiden (2004)
Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword
Ninja Gaiden II (2008)
Ninja Gaiden Old & New
Ninja Gaiden: Miscellanous
Ninja Gaiden 3 PlayStation 3 Cover
Razor's Edge PlayStation 3 Cover
Attention: Many of the screenshots on this page are promotional materials and differ in presentation from the actual game. Only those showing the on-screen displays are real screenshots. The latter are taken from gamesaktuell.de, ign.com and nowgamer.com.
Ninja Gaiden 3 was Team Ninja's first all-new series entry in their post-Itagaki (and also post Hiroaki Matsui and Katsunori Ehara, which is overlooked too often) world, to prove that they could create a great action game from the ground up on their own. Unfortunately, they completely fumbled it. Ninja Gaiden 3 is just a poster example of a horribly misguided sequel, both in terms of tone and game design.
Starting with the very premise, Ninja Gaiden 3 oozes the desire to be darker and grittier just for the sake of being dark and gritty, best exemplified by Yosuke Hayashi's constant insistence that Ryu Hayabusa was a "Japanese Dark Hero" now during presentations of the game. Series veteran Masato Kato had been brought back on board to pen the story, but somehow that didn't translate into a rediscovery of old virtues. It rather seems that he since graduated from the Hideo Kojima school of writing, so the new game is full of boring exposition, pretentious moralizing and a weird kind of half-realism. In his home, Ryu Hayabusa is approached by the members of a military force, who inform him of a terrorist attack. That's right, no ancient superhuman demons this time, just terrorists, even though they call themselves the Lords of Alchemy. They actually demanded Ryu to show up at their location, for nebulous reasons. Well knowing that it has to be a trap, Ryu faces the masked antagonist only known as The Regent of the Mask, who puts an old Eastern European curse on Ryu that causes the Dragon Sword to be absorbed into his right arm, which is then filled with the spite of all the countless people the ninja has killed. Of course that offers just as countless opportunities to hammer down ad nauseum how Ryu is just as bad as his adversary each time the two meet. After all, Ryu is a Japanese Dark Hero.
Ryu Hayabusa
He's a Japanese Dark Hero. With his Japanese Dark Hero powers he strives to overcome his Japanese Dark Hero curse and defeat his enemies as a Japanese Dark Hero, before they can feed him variations of "we're not so different, you and I" so often that he starts bleeding out of his Japanese Dark Hero ears (Japanese Dark Hero bleeding pictured). Japanese Dark Hero.
Mizuki McCloud
Member of a special unit within the Japanese Self-Defense Force, she approaches Ryu with her superior Ishigami about the terrorist threat. During the operation, she's also single-mothering Canna, the orphaned daughter of her sister. Ryu bonds with the two during the mission, but apparently someone watched The Dark Knight before writing the story, so in the end Ryu does what a Japanese Dark Hero has got to do.
Ken Ishigami
Secretary of Japan's Ministry of Defense, he leads the operation against the terrorists, but always leaves the impression that he might be hiding something.
The Regent of the Mask
Mister Exposition for this game is a big shot in the Lords of Alchemy, and just an annoying, arrogant pain in the ass. He puts a curse on Ryu, although it is never elucidated how he gained this paranormal ability. His identity is involved in a twist that is completely unpredictable, but just feels cheap and contrived when it happens.
Her role in the main story is tiny again: She brings Ryu Hayate's katana as a loan after he loses the dragon sword, and has a few short appearances afterwards. In Razor's Edge she stars as a playable character in a few added missions that are only tangentially related to the plot.
Cliff Higgins
Cliff is a scientist working for the JSDF, and incidentally also the brother of Mizuki's sister's husband.
Momiji joins up with Ryu when he returns to the Hayabusa village to seek treatment for his curse. Apropos of nothing, the two end up fighting Obaba from Ninja Gaiden Dragon Sword again.
Ashtear
The withered old man is the CEO of a multinational corporation called LOA, which – surprise, surprise – stands for Lords of Alchemy. His company is involved in unethical genetical experiments, and the terrorist attacks are launched to facilitate these plans.
The mean femme fatale is in charge of LOA's laboratories. She doesn't get any more characterization than that.
Irene Lew
She never meets Ryu directly in this game, but supports him from the shadows. During Ayane's sections in Razor's Edge, she employs the kunoichi in supporting missions and functions as her operator. Even though the game never explicitly addresses the name change, she is apparently still the same person as Sonia from Ninja Gaiden II.
After her presence was teased at in Ninja Gaiden Sigma II, Kasumi doesn't actually appear in the story of Ninja Gaiden 3 (she had a few short, disguised cameo appearances in Sigma 2), but becomes another playable character in multiplayer, effectively replacing Rachel even though her fighting style lies somewhere between Ryu and Ayane's.
After Itagaki's extremely brutal send-off and the subsequently tame Sigma 2, Ninja Gaiden 3 makes a 1080 on the gore, but follows a very twisted and disturbing concept of violence. At one point in the opening mission, a cutscene shows an enemy mercenary surrender. Then the player is forced back in control of Ryu, but all that can be done is slowly walking towards the enemy, who continues to advance backwards, pulling off his mask, talking about his family and begging for his life. Then you can either turn off the game or commit cold-blooded murder. Yosuke Hayashi frequently talked about how Team Ninja wanted to make Ryu a "Japanese Dark Hero" who "sometimes has to do bad things in order to do good" and to try to teach a moral lesson by "getting blood on the player's hands," but it all feels just dishonest and mean-spirited and sick. Ryu is not a "Japanese Dark Hero" in these scenes, he is a cold-blooded murderer with no redeeming qualities whatsoever. It makes the later scenes, where he bonds with Mizuki and Canna, seem like no more than calculating deceptions of a psychopath, or simply like a completely different character with no continuity to his previous actions. That scene makes even less sense when later enemies try to run away during gameplay, and it is very well possible to spare them – which is still pointless nonetheless, as the player's actions have no consequences whatsoever.
The game may be less brutal than Ninja Gaiden 2, but it is much more cruel. Enemies are not dismembered any more, but fountains of blood still spill out of them, and the camera frequently zooms to a closeup when Ryu's sword slices through them. Whereas Ninja Gaiden 2 explored brutality as a necessity in fantasy combat situations, Ninja Gaiden 3 just revels in human suffering. "Once you start lopping off limbs, your enemy goes from being a living thing that you're killing to just a thing" – such is the disturbing view of Yosuke Hayashi. Yet with the dismemberment that turns enemies into suicidal fanatics gone, wounded enemies instead become mere victims as they crawl on the floor helplessly. Executing them in this state with the now repurposed Obliteration Techniques greatly builds up ki, reducing them to exactly what Hayashi accused Ninja Gaiden II of.
The Regent of the Mask has to be fought about half a dozen times.
The tone is so messed up it would be hard to justify playing this game even when the action was excellent. Fortunately, the gameplay is even worse, so no one needs to feel bad for skipping this game. It's not easy to fathom how the remaining Team Ninja could start from the solid system of the previous games and somehow make it this bad. It starts with the aforementioned constant close-up zooming, which is not only disorienting, but also can make you feel like throwing up all the time. Combat is riddled with short, one-button quick time events that do nothing but destroy the pacing. Ninja Gaiden 3 has a lot of new gameplay elements, but not one of them works for the game. Ryu now very frequently finds himself in situations where he has to glide down from huge buildings (no parachute, hangglider or any other tool needed, of course). These sequences are boring and non-interactive aside from more occasional QTEs to avoid projectiles or to instantly kill an enemy at the landing spot. Ryu can also slide beneath some obstacles and hazards that come flying at him, which once again is presented as a QTE. The game also tries to encourage some really awkward stealth sequences. Countless words have already been written on the futility of stealth sequences in non-stealth games, and they were all right.
But the worst new addition is the atrocious climbing mini-game that occurs whenever Ryu has to scale a vertical wall. He jumps towards it, and the player is QTE-prompted to stick two daggers into the stone by pulling shoulder triggers on both sides. Then left and right have to be pult in alternation to slowly climb up. This takes forever and is often filled with additional annoying hazards that keep falling down to undo your progress. It's possible to evade to the left and right, but getting on with the climbing afterwards is quite glitchy, resulting in many falls to the death when failing to get into the exact rhythm from the very first button press afterwards. It's also really easy to get stuck in obstacles here. How these sequences ever made it through quality assurance is just baffling.
Every now and then, the curse takes ahold of Ryu, causing him pain to his arm and forcing him to stumble forward at an excruciatingly slow pace, until it just disappears. A very different narrative function, but a similar effect on gameplay have the frequent radio communication scenes where Ryu is briefed by Mizuki and can only slowly walk forward until they're done talking – because cutscenes are not enough, and "slow and wordy" is what everyone thinks when they hear Ninja Gaiden, right?
Team Ninja never runs out of excuses to slow Ryu down.
Combat feels bland, as well. The only weapon around this time is the katana (well, aside from the bow), although later patches added the claws and the scythe. There's also only one ninpo attack, which is charged during combat but gets drained as soon as there are no enemies left on screen. The few times it can actually be used, however, it kills nearly everything on screen and recharges Ryu's health. There is literally nothing to upgrade or unlock, all the parameters stay just as they are in the beginning. The dismemberment of Ninja Gaiden II is gone entirely, replaced by the new "Sword on bone" mechanic, which allows Ryu to dash from enemy to enemy in a semi-automatic combo, killing each of them instantly, but while not entirely random, it is quite unreliable and surely feels random during play. Ultimate Techniques can now only be used after killing a number of enemies until the sword starts glowing red, and Ryu warps to the next enemy instantly to execute them.
Ninja Gaiden 3: Razor's Edge (Xbox 360)
Worst of all, there is hardly any enemy variation throughout the game. For the first few mission, Ryu meets nothing but a few types of ordinary commandos, aside from the bosses. Then the boring old Spider Clan ninjas join them for the next few missions. All of them are very vulnerable to the Izuna Drop, which has always been a bit overpowered against human enemies, but since now there's almost nothing but human enemies, it becomes excessive. The same enemies attack over and over again in neverending waves, so fighting them feels more like wading through molasses than overcoming a threat. Very late in the game appear a few fiends (recycled from previous games) and mutations that require different tactics, but they take almost forever to kill. Even the bosses are lame, many of them require very specific patterns of attack and often cannot be damaged at all for prolonged times, so Ryu can do nothing but wait and evade. To reach ultimate levels of suck, Team Ninja also removed their life bars, so you never know when they will finally go down, and sometimes can't even tell for sure if Ryu is actually damaging them. Unlike previous episodes that completely remixed the encounters in higher difficulty levels, Ninja Gaiden 3 just causes enemies to deal more damage.
Vanishing and stealth kills are new for the deathmatches.
The one potentionally awesome change brought by Ninja Gaiden 3 is the introduction of competitive multiplayer. Up to eight players enter the arena as generic ninja dudes – there is a range of customization options, but apart from a few out-there masks, they are limited to conventional ninja suits – to battle it out in a team deathmatch. It quickly becomes clear, however, why Team Ninja was avoiding this much asked for feature for so long. The engine simply isn't laid out too well to support fights with multiple combatants on each side. It works out reasonably well when two players duel each other, but in a 2-to-1 situation things already become unfair and glitchy. There's also a really stupid feature where one player stabs the other and both have to tap buttons to resolve the situation, all the while their game avatars stand frozen in place for multiple seconds as if they've glitched out of the internet connection. It's all just a chaotic, dissatisfying mess.
Interesting in concept are the Shadow Contracts, additional objectives individual to each player and hidden from the others. They include basic stuff like performing certain combat moves, but also goals like assassinating an arbitrarily determined leader of the other team, or enacting revenge on the opponent who last killed you. There's even a contract to betray the own team by assassinating a member and joining the opponents. It's also possible to commit seppuku before dying, in order to deny the opponent the kill and the score that comes with it. At least the Shadow Contracts maintain some variety and interesting uncertainty to the otherwise fairly monotonous slaughtering, even if they do nothing to cancel out the basic engine problems.
It is no exaggeration to call Ninja Gaiden 3 the worst game in the entire franchise (well, at least when excluding the unfinished Genesis prototype), but Team Ninja tried to repent by fixing some of its countless flaws with an upgraded version, subtitled Razor's Edge. On the surface level this release adds Ayane, Momiji and Kasumi as playable characters in multiplayer, and supplements the story mode with two chapters where Ayane fulfills various missions for Irene that are indirectly tied to Ryu's quest. As usual, Ayane's moveset and gameplay feel differ only slightly from Ryu's, and while the new chapters aren't too bad at all and devoid of any of the annoying stopgaps suffered in the original campaign, they do feel a bit like insubstantial filler with little relevance to the rest of the game.
Razor's Edge brings back some much needed weapon variety.
But the really important achievements of Razor's Edge lie in the details. For starters, the annoying kunai climbing has been sped up a lot. It's still garbage and glitchy, but at least now it's over faster, and a few climbing sequences have been replaced by regular wall jumping. Some of the really bad cutscenes and QTEs have been removed (good riddance to you, pointless forced slaughtering of a surrendering mercenary!) and the scenes where Ryu fights against the curse now conclude with long arena fights in another dimension. Which is pointless from a story perspective, but at least there's some gameplay connected to it now.
The dismemberment mechanics from Ninja Gaiden II are brought back in full swing, but that doesn't mean the end of the "Steel on Bone" gimmick – it merely got revised to be intentionally usable and actually is kind of fun now when you manage to get a streak of steel on bone finishers. Ultimate Techniques and ninpo are also back to normal.
Ayane got most of the same abilities as Ryu.
The scarab collectibles from the 2004 Ninja Gaiden return, although here they are used to make new skills accessible. These still have to be unlocked using karma, and include various combat abilities, health expansions, ninpos, costumes and – last but not least – several weapons from the previous games. The Lunar Staff, Kusari-gama and Dual Katanas return, making the gameplay about as varied as they were in Ninja Gaiden II. There is also a new Test of Valor in every stage, accessed by picking up a sometimes well-hidden crystal skull. The improvements are rounded up with some bugfixes and a more stable framerate.
The AI has also improved a bit, but the game still throws far too many and long waves of the same boring enemies at you (which don't try to run away anymore and have regained the kamikaze mentality from the previous game). The combat engine may be good again, but by Ninja Gaiden II, it already showed its wear. Ninja Gaiden 3 just beat the horse to death with its bad encounter design and endless repetition, and Razor's Edge doesn't do enough to breathe new life into it.
Razor's Edge is a much, much better game than the original Ninja Gaiden 3, but it still hardly exceeds "tolerable" as an attribute. While much of the putridity has been cut away, the game still remains somewhat rotten at the core. It's still very boring and monotonous compared to Team Ninja's previous efforts, before the departure of the key development leaders. Between their Devil's Third boiling in development hell for years, only to be revealed as a multiplayer-focused, awkward-looking mix between swordplay action and shooter and Team Ninja's fumbling efforts to continue the Ninja Gaiden series, the future doesn't look so brightly for fans of Japanese action games apart from the Devil May Cry / Platinum Games strand.
Momiji and Kasumi are only playable in the cooperative multiplayer challenges.
Series Navigation << Ninja Gaiden II (2008)Yaiba: Ninja Gaiden Z >>
Bayonetta Mass Effect 3 Vampire Rain Vanquish Bionic Commando (2009) Golden Axe: Beast Rider Front Mission Evolved Mass Effect Mass Effect 2 Prince of Persia: The Forgotten Sands (PS3/X360/WIN)
Tag: Action: 3D, Microsoft Xbox 360, Ninjas, Nintendo Wii U, Sony Playstation 3, Tecmo


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Armadale Hospital emergency department upgrade starts in latest expansion for WA public hospitals 19791 Department of the Premier and Cabinet, Media Statements html 19/01/2021 5:08:15 AM 2021-01-19T05:00:00Z More than $900,000 worth of upgrades to Armadale Hospital's emergency department has started Project is the latest in extensive list of State government hospital emergency departments being upgradedOn-site works has now started at Armadale Hospital as part of its $900,000 plus Emergency Department (ED) upgrade announced late last year. The first stage is expected to be completed one week ahead of scheduled, by the end of January. Health Minister Roger Cook visited the hospital today to view the Emergency Department expansion work. The upgrade comes on the back of more than $360 million committed by the McGowan Government to hospital upgrades across the Perth metropolitan area and regional Western Australia. The projects include $19 million upgrade at the Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital emergency department; $257 million Joondalup Health Campus project which includes 12 new emergency department bays; $5 million in upgrades for the Peel Health Campus emergency department in addition to $152 million announcement for a major expansion to bring it back into public hands; $1.4 million investment at Royal Perth Hospital in infrastructure works to improve patient flow and deliver a better patient experience; $73 million for Geraldton Health Campus program of works, including emergency department upgrade; $7 million State and Commonwealth funded Mental Health Emergency Centre at St John of God Midland Public Hospital which is currently underway. The upgrades come as WA hospitals are experiencing a significant increase in attendances to emergency departments. Latest data shows ED attendances in Western Australia increased by 8.6 per cent - or about 250 more people a day - from November to December last year. There were 92,557 attendances to WA Emergency Departments in December 2020. This was a 6.9 per cent increase compared with December 2019 (5,955 more attendances) and 12.8 per cent higher than December 2018. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) tracks the performance of public hospital emergency departments including their capacity to admit, transfer or discharge people within four hours. The latest annual report of the AIHW reveals WA has the best performing emergency departments in the nation, ahead of NSW, Queensland, Victoria and South Australia. The work at Armadale Hospital - part of the East Metropolitan Health Service - is being undertaken by Marawar Building Services - which boasts more than 50 per cent of staff being Aboriginal. Following site orientation and required health and safety training of all personnel working on the site during the first week of January, the company started required demolition of the ED area and decommissioning and deactivating a range of equipment. New wall frames and sheeting, in addition to work on the ceiling, has already been completed. It is anticipated that most of the new light fittings and painting will be finished this week. The project is particularly challenging as the ED will continue to operate during the reconfiguration and upgrade works. Last financial year, more than 60,000 people attended the Armadale Hospital ED, which services Perth's south-eastern suburbs. The ED reconfiguration has been designed to improve the patient experience through the development of a dedicated paediatric patient treatment area and waiting room, an enhanced low stimulus area for mental health patients, the establishment of a short stay unit for those patients who need to stay within the ED overnight and a dedicated ambulatory assessment area. In addition, to ensure appropriate safety measures and enhanced capability to deal with COVID-19 patients, a dedicated respiratory assessment area will also be developed. When completed, the ED is expected to improve the patient experience, provide clear patient flow pathways and decrease the time people need to wait to see medical staff. The project is anticipated to conclude in mid-2021. Comments attributed to Health Minister Roger Cook "The McGowan Government made a commitment to high-quality healthcare in the public sector and it is proud to be delivering just that across both the city and in the regions. "All Western Australians should be able to access medical care in a timely manner. "The Armadale Hospital ED reconfiguration will help service people living within Perth's south-eastern suburbs more efficiently and effectively. "The work was undertaken following extensive consultation with the medical staff working in the ED - the people who know best what is needed to help with patient flow and ensuring that patients get the care they need as quickly as possible. "Mental Health is at the forefront of all our decision making and an enhanced low stimulus area for mental health patients at Armadale Hospital is a significant step in the right direction. "Development of a dedicated paediatric patient treatment area at Armadale Hospital makes sense - it enables children to be treated in a specific purpose-built area, away from adults. "These staff at Armadale Hospital are regularly commended on Patient Opinion for the outstanding care - the work currently being undertaken will help improve the patient experience." Minister's office - 6552 6500
MRIWA PhD scholarships for 2021 attracts all women researchers 19749 Department of the Premier and Cabinet, Media Statements html 19/01/2021 3:00:34 AM 2021-01-19T03:00:00Z For the first time MRIWA awards all PhD scholarships to women in 2021 Winners to undertake innovative mining-related research at WA universities Three PhD scholarships funded by the State Government, through the Minerals Research Institute of Western Australia (MRIWA), have been awarded to talented professionals working to deliver innovative research relevant to the State's mining industry. Elizabeth Wall has been awarded the Odwyn Jones PhD Scholarship, named in honour of pioneering Western Australian mining educator Professor Odwyn Jones AO. Devika Bhatia has been awarded the MRIWA PhD Scholarship for Women. Due to the exceptional quality of this year's candidates, MRIWA has offered a third PhD Scholarship to Alexandra Halliday. The recipients will join a cohort of promising PhD researchers to ensure WA remains at the forefront of minerals research and technology development. Since its initiation in 2014, the MRIWA PhD scholarship program has invested $1.9 million to attract and support the development of elite research talent. This is the first time in the seven-year history of the program that women have won all the competitive scholarships on offer, reversing the traditional male dominance of the industry. More information about the MRIWA Scholarships program is available at https//www.mriwa.wa.gov.au/research-funding/phd-scholarship-program/ Comments attributed to Mines and Petroleum Minister Bill Johnston "The McGowan Government is investing to attract the world's brightest talent to undertake research into issues important to the future of Western Australia's mining sector. "The mining industry will continue to be a dynamic driver of the Western Australian economy in the coming decades, and the energy and vision of these research leaders will be an important part of shaping that future. "The notable success of women in this competitive field is an example of the State Government supporting gender diversity in all industries." Minister's office - 6552 6700
Clean energy projects to lower emissions and create jobs 19746 Department of the Premier and Cabinet, Media Statements html 19/01/2021 2:06:53 AM 2021-01-19T02:05:00Z $2.6 million awarded to two clean energy projects to reduce carbon emissions The projects will create more than 365 construction jobs and 22 ongoing jobs McGowan Government also launches second round of Clean Energy Future FundTwo Goldfields-based projects have been offered grants worth more than $2.6 million in the first round of the McGowan Government's $19 million Clean Energy Future Fund. The projects will create up to 400 jobs and generate 77,000 megawatt hours (MWh) of electricity each year - enough to power 15,000 houses and save 53,000 tonnes of carbon emissions, which is equal to taking 17,000 cars off the road. The successful projects are Nomadic Energy ($1 million) who will install 5 megawatts (MW) of modular, re-deployable solar panels at Saracen's Carosue Dam gold mine. The flexibility to redeploy the solar panels, removes a key barrier to using green energy at mine sites, where a mine may cease operating before the cost of the solar panels has been recovered. ResourcesWA ($1.6 million) who will install 30MW of solar power at the Homestead mine site in the Goldfields, supplying power to the Paddington Mill and Mungari Mill sites and batteries at each of the mills (10MW and 5MW respectively, each with one hour's storage) to reduce the impact of outages and support Western Power's local substation. Projects to reduce the emissions of significant facilities in regional areas were prioritised in the first round, with the State Government funding up to 25 per cent of eligible project costs. Applications for round 2 of the Clean Energy Future Fund will open on Monday January 25, with a total of up to $16 million available in the fund. Round 2 will prioritise clean energy projects that reduce emissions, create jobs, improve security and reliability of supply, or support the replacement of diesel use. It will also prioritise projects that support decarbonisation of existing industry, develop new low carbon industries or enhance energy efficiency in manufacturing or the built environment. The fund, administered by the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation with support from Energy Policy WA, launched in April. For more information, visit https//www.wa.gov.au/service/environment/environment-information-services/clean-energy-future-fund Comments attributed to Environment Minister Stephen Dawson "The Clean Energy Future Fund is an important part of the McGowan Government's commitment to achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and supporting our State's COVID-19 economic recovery plan. "Nomadic Energy and ResourceWA were chosen for the high value they provide, their capacity to reduce emissions, potential for wider adoption, innovation and financial viability. "These benefits will only increase further as these technologies are more widely adopted, and will also grow exponentially as the fund continues to support new, innovative clean energy projects." Comments attributed to Energy Minister Bill Johnston "The McGowan Government's Clean Energy Future Fund is evidence of its commitment to supporting innovative, new technologies and opportunities for Western Australia. "Not only does the fund assist in developing clean energy projects, it has helped create jobs, which is increasingly important for our State's economic recovery during the COVID-19 pandemic. "With over 385 construction and operational jobs expected to be created during the life of the two projects, it's clear that clean energy industries are an important source of future employment opportunities, particularly in regional WA." Environment Minister's office - 6552 5800 Energy Minister's office - 6552 6700
The grass is greener in Baldivis as turf is laid for significant sporting infrastructure project 19743 Department of the Premier and Cabinet, Media Statements html 19/01/2021 2:03:38 AM 2021-01-19T02:00:00Z Works underway at Baldivis District Sporting Club, following $2.5 million CSRFF grant for turf playing fields, a district pavilion and improve lighting Additional $10 million contribution provided through the WA Recovery Plan towards the construction of the Baldivis Indoor Recreation Centre Projects form part of the larger $47.6 million new Baldivis District Sporting Complex The McGowan Government has committed $2.5 million, through its flagship sporting infrastructure fund, to help construct turf playing fields and a sporting pavilion with change rooms at the Baldivis District Sporting Club in the City of Rockingham. Premier Mark McGowan and Baldivis MLA Reece Whitby visited the construction site at the club today, which will be primarily used by Australian rules football and cricket clubs. The project involves the installation of approximately eight hectares of turf, and will be an important piece of sporting infrastructure in the southern suburbs. The City of Rockingham received a grant of $1.5 million for the development of turf playing fields at the Baldivis District Sporting Complex, and a further $1 million for the development of a district pavilion and oval floodlighting at the site, through the Community Sporting and Recreation Facilities Fund (CSRFF). The City also received $10 million through the WA Recovery Plan towards the Baldivis Indoor Recreation Centre, a $18.8 million project featuring four indoor multi-purpose courts, change rooms, meeting rooms and a café. Additional funding for the new $47.6 million Baldivis District Sporting Complex has been provided by the City of Rockingham ($35 million) and Cricket Australia ($100,000). The playing fields and pavilion project is expected to be completed by early 2022 with the Baldivis Indoor Recreation Centre expected to be completed late 2022. Comments attributed to Premier Mark McGowan "This project will benefit the Baldivis and surrounding local communities significantly providing sporting infrastructure and great playing fields for locals and visitors to enjoy. "I'm pleased to support this important community infrastructure project as part of our WA Recovery Plan which is providing a boost to the economy following the impacts of the pandemic. "Encouraging people to get out, get active, and get into sport and active recreation has never been more important as we try to help to reconnect communities, increase participation for local sporting organisations and create jobs for local workers." Comments attributed to Sport and Recreation Minister Mick Murray "The CSRFF helps to foster healthier and more connected communities by providing better places for people to play sport and recreate, while also providing project work for WA businesses and creating local jobs. "With Baldivis being one of the fastest growing sporting communities in the State, this significant investment will contribute to meeting the demand for playing grounds for our local Aussie Rules and cricket clubs. "I'm pleased that the McGowan Government is playing a vital role in the economic recovery of local economies." Comments attributed to Baldivis MLA Reece Whitby "The Baldivis community loves sport and this centre will become the home of sport in Baldivis for generations. "The project will meet a growing need in our community as local sporting clubs boom and need more playing fields and facilities. "The Baldivis District Sporting Complex will be first class and a substantial asset for all the community. The centre will also free up playing space at other ovals across Baldivis." Premier's office - 6552 5000 Sport and Recreation Minister's office - 6552 6400
Investing in Perth's northern suburbs' recovery 19742 Department of the Premier and Cabinet, Media Statements 496 0 html 18/01/2021 8:40:59 AM 2021-01-18T08:40:00Z McGowan Government investment in northern suburbs continues, with two key infrastructure projects set to get underway Funding through the WA Recovery Plan will create jobs and local economic activityThe McGowan Government is continuing to invest in Perth's northern suburbs, with two major infrastructure projects set to get underway in the City of Wanneroo. An amount of $150,000 has been released to fund the design work for upgrades to floodlights at the Olympic Kingsway Sports Club. The funding is part of $2.667 million already committed to improving the club's infrastructure. The scope of the project includes the provision of 500 lux lighting to the main soccer pitch and 200 lux lighting to two training pitches. A $600,000 commitment from the fund will also see the extension of the Warradale Community Centre. The extension will provide a new modular change room facility, with two unisex change rooms, a first aid room and umpires' room. This funding delivers on a 2017 McGowan Government election commitment, and following advocacy from local MLA Margaret Quirk and the City of Wanneroo, the scope of the project has been expanded to include unisex facilities. Launched in July, the WA Recovery Plan is a $5.5 billion investment by the WA Government, driving the Western Australian economy and helping WA to get back to being a thriving and innovative place to live, work, visit and do business. Comments attributed to Sport and Recreation Minister Mick Murray "It is great for our northern suburban communities that this investment through the WA Recovery Plan is playing a key role in revitalising these two facilities. "This funding will create more local jobs and increased economic activity in the City of Wanneroo. "It will also support more individuals and families to get out and be active members of their communities."Comments attributed to Girrawheen MLA Margaret Quirk "The existing rooms at the Warradale Community Centre are well used by local sporting and community clubs. "These upgrades meet the demands of increased and growing patronage, and I know are welcomed." Minister's office - 6552 6400
Lotterywest grants presented to arts organisations 19741 Department of the Premier and Cabinet, Media Statements 533 0 html 18/01/2021 7:31:01 AM 2021-01-18T07:30:00Z Almost $700,000 in Lotterywest cheques presented to arts organisations Chamber of Arts and Culture WA receive $323,351 to support the sector respond to crises CircuitWest receive $376,000 grant for professional development programTwo culture and the arts organisations will share in more than $699,000 in Lotterywest funding to build the capacity of the sector. Culture and the Arts Minister David Templeman today presented grant certificates to arts advocacy body the Chamber of Arts and Culture WA, and performing arts touring and service organisation CircuitWest. The Chamber of Arts and Culture WA will receive $323,351 to support their work with arts and culture organisations to improve their capacity to respond to future crises and opportunities. CircuitWest will receive $376,000 to deliver a year-long professional development and capacity building program to 30 community theatres across the State. Accepting the grant certificates on their organisations' behalf were Shelagh Magadza from the Chamber and Ryan Taaffe from CircuitWest. Comments attributed to Culture and the Arts Minister David Templeman "I am delighted to present these cheques to two organisations that play such a crucial role in the arts and cultural sector. "The sector has been hit hard by COVID-19 - this funding will support their capacity to future-proof itself in what may continue to be uncertain times. "We are fortunate in WA to have the only lottery in Australia, and one of the few in the world, where all profits are returned directly back to the local community. "It is thanks to those that play Lotterywest games and the small businesses who sell them that we can support arts organisations like CircuitWest and the Chamber." Minister's office - 6552 5400
Lotterywest funding to support volunteer research and training 19740 Department of the Premier and Cabinet, Media Statements 582 0 html 18/01/2021 6:02:55 AM 2021-01-18T06:00:00Z Lotterywest funding of $848,198 for three volunteer-involving organisations Focus on research, development and training Volunteering Minister Mick Murray has today announced more than $848,000 in Lotterywest funding towards research, development and training for three Western Australian volunteer-involving organisations. A grant of $600,948 to Lifeline WA (Living Stone Foundation) will fund a research project looking at the safety and efficacy of volunteers working from home. Lifeline WA commenced operating in 1994, using trained volunteers to deliver a 24-hour counselling and support service, assisting Western Australians experiencing personal crises or contemplating suicide. Chorus Australia will use their grant of $198,450 to develop a training package designed to strengthen community capacity and disability, aged care and mental health services. Chorus works to enable people to live the life they choose in their own home and community. Volunteering WA (Volunteer Centre of Western Australia) will use their grant of $48,800 in research and development of good practise in volunteering in the aged-care sector. The organisation represents volunteering across the State, including all volunteer involving organisations, and the 545,800 volunteers that support them. WA organisations that rely on volunteering were all greatly challenged by the COVID-19 pandemic. These grants will assist three organisations to rebuild after the pandemic, and will strengthen their support of vulnerable members of the community. Comments attributed to Seniors and Ageing and Volunteering Minister Mick Murray "Volunteers are the lifeblood of a great many organisations, so investment in research and training is essential in order to support them to work effectively. "It's estimated that up to six hundred thousand Western Australians regularly put their hands up to help out every year, and those people make an estimated annual economic and social contribution of around $39 billion. "This funding will ensure volunteers receive the training and support necessary to undertake their invaluable volunteering roles. "The State Government and Lotterywest are proud to support community projects like these that help to build a better Western Australia." Minister's office - 6552 6400
Program to support culturally and linguistically diverse families 19739 Department of the Premier and Cabinet, Media Statements 865 0 html 18/01/2021 3:52:51 AM 2021-01-18T03:45:00Z New $1.2 million trial program at two Perth schools to support families and their children who speak English as an additional language before they start school Maylands Peninsula Primary School and Bentley Primary School selected to take part Program for children aged three and under will facilitate family participation in activities and acknowledges families as their child's first educators Ready by the start of Semester 2, 2021 A new $1.2 million program at two Perth primary schools will support the development and learning of young children who speak English as an additional language before they start school. Maylands Peninsula Primary School and Bentley Primary School will trial the Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Early Years Link program in 2021 for children aged three years and under. The program provides playgroup sessions for six hours a week, with high levels of involvement from families. External agencies will also provide any additional support required. Similar to KindiLink for Aboriginal families with children before school age, the program offers high quality play-and-learn sessions for children and their parents or carers at no cost. Both school communities have a significant number of culturally and linguistically diverse students. Teachers and ethnic education assistants at Maylands Peninsula Primary School and Bentley Primary School will have training and ongoing professional support to implement and deliver the program. Comments attributed to Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery "We want families with young children who speak a language other than English to get all the support they need before their children start school. "It will help build the capacities and confidence of culturally and linguistically diverse families by developing strong relationships with school staff and their communities, introducing a smooth transition to kindergarten, and providing strong links with external services." Comments attributed to Maylands MLA Lisa Baker "I am thrilled Maylands Peninsula Primary School will trial the Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Early Years Link program in 2021. "This new program will help progress the learning of young children with an emphasis on family support." Minister's office - 6552 5700
Entries open for Australian Masters Games in Perth 14571 Department of the Premier and Cabinet, Media Statements 673 0 html 18/01/2021 12:41:26 AM 2021-01-17T23:00:00Z Entries for the Australian Masters Games open today Event draws competitors from across the country into Perth Entries open today for the Australian Masters Games, which is being held in Perth this October. Supported by the State Government, through Tourism WA and VenuesWest, it is the first time Western Australia has hosted the premier sporting event since 1993. The Australian Masters Games, for people aged over 30, features around 50 sports including athletics, cricket, basketball, netball, figure skating and wrestling. While sport is the main attraction, the event is also known for its social activities, with a program of entertainment throughout the week to give competitors and guests a taste of Perth and the surrounding regions. More than 8,000 competitors and supporters are expected to take part in the Australian Masters Games, which will be held in Perth from October 9 to October 16, 2021, in line with advice of the WA Chief Health Officer. To enter, visit https//australianmastersgames.com Comments attributed to Tourism Minister Paul Papalia "Attracting large sporting events, like the Australian Masters Games, is an important part of the McGowan Government's tourism strategy. "The Masters Games will attract competitors from right across WA and give them a chance to rediscover our city." Comments attributed to Sport and Recreation Minister Mick Murray "Age is the only criteria for the Australian Masters Games - it's all about getting active, reconnecting with friends and creating new relationships. "With so many different sporting and social events offered throughout the week, the games provide many opportunities for participants to build connections to their community, which are more valuable now than ever as we continue through the COVID-19 pandemic." Tourism Minister's office - 6552 5600 Sport and Recreation Minister's office - 6552 6400
Safe approach for Victoria under WA's border controls 19738 Department of the Premier and Cabinet, Media Statements 2801 0 html 15/01/2021 10:07:38 AM 2021-01-15T10:00:00Z Effective 12.01am, Monday, January 18, Victoria will become a 'low risk' State Travel only permitted with 14 days of self-quarantine and COVID-19 testing Cautious approach comes after Victoria recorded nine days of no local cases Transition in line with latest health advice and controlled interstate border Following the latest public health advice, Western Australia's controlled interstate border will be safely adjusted from Monday, January 18 with travel from Victoria permitted into WA subject to the following strict conditions complete a G2G Pass declaration, stipulating they do not have any COVID-19 symptoms, which jurisdictions the traveller has been in over the previous 14 days and if they have knowingly mixed with someone from New South Wales or Queensland; self-quarantine for 14 days in a suitable premise; present for a COVID-19 test on day 11; all Perth Airport arrivals to undergo a health screening and temperature test on arrival; be prepared to take a COVID-19 test at the airport COVID clinic, if deemed necessary by a health clinician (voluntary asymptomatic testing available for all airport arrivals); and land arrivals to be met at the border checkpoint, for a health screening and to have their G2G Pass declaration checked before proceeding to self-quarantine premise. Anyone coming from Victoria that has been in or travelled through a medium-risk jurisdiction in the past 14 days will not be able to enter WA without an exemption. Under WA's expert health advice, a jurisdiction requires at least 28 days of no community cases until consideration can be given to reclassify them as 'very low risk'. Jurisdictions considered 'very low risk' and are permitted to enter WA without COVID-19 testing or self-quarantine requirements currently include the Australian Capital Territory, Northern Territory, South Australia and Tasmania. Jurisdictions considered 'medium risk' are not permitted to enter WA without an exemption and include only New South Wales and Queensland, when Victoria moves to 'low risk'. The WA Chief Health Officer will continue to monitor and review border controls, including Queensland and New South Wales, to determine if any further adjustments can be made in the future. WA's border arrangements are enacted under the Emergency Management Act and failure to follow these directions will be enforceable by law, with penalties ranging from $1,000 infringements to up to $50,000 fines for individuals. More information on WA's controlled borders is available at http//www.wa.gov.au Comments attributed to Premier Mark McGowan "The re-introduction of a hard border with Victoria was necessary to protect Western Australians and minimise the risk of COVID-19 spreading in the WA community. "It shows that with a controlled border, we can make adjustments swiftly to keep WA safe. "I want to thank everyone for their patience and understanding throughout this process, and for helping keep WA safe. "Classifying Victoria as 'low risk' allows for safe travel under our controlled border, with the important requirement of 14 days of self-quarantine and a COVID-19 test. "The variant strain has added an extra layer of complexity with how rapidly the virus can spread, so WA's extra cautious approach is necessary. "Everyone in the community has a responsibility to be vigilant and ensure we can stay protected from this deadly virus - this means heeding the COVID safe principles and taking precautionary measures on all fronts, be it face masks when flying and at airports, and checking-in using SafeWA when you're out." Comments attributed to Health Minister Roger Cook "This safe and cautious adjustment for Victoria has been recommended by the Chief Health Officer on the latest public health advice. "This cautious but sensible approach under our controlled border, gives Western Australia the protection we need to minimise the risk of COVID-19 entering the WA community. "We will continue to monitor the situation closely, and once Victoria reaches 28 days of no community transmission we can then consider the next step under our controlled border." Premier's office - 6552 5000 Health Minister's office - 6552 6500

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


A new biography reveals that the Senator from New York--and a host of other Democrats--did not get all the facts before casting a crucial vote to invade Iraq.
Slowly, very slowly, Hillary Clinton's vote to invade Iraq is turning into a political horror story. It is the moldering hand of a murder victim coming out of the grave to grab her by the ankle.
Bodies would not be jumping out at the candidate of the money wing of the Democratic Party if she had only said she made a mistake in voting for the war, but she has refused to do that so often that if she did it now she would open herself up to a chorus of catcalls.
She may be concerned that a retraction will make her look weak. So her line of defense has been, "My vote was a sincere vote based on the facts and assurances that I had at the time." She says it over and over again.
The facts she had and the facts she could have had before she cast her vote for the war are two different things. We learn that from an article in The New York Times Magazine by Jeff Gerth and Don Van Natta Jr.
These two, who have made a career out of investigating Hillary, have dug up a couple of facts the Senator is going to have a hard time ignoring. The big fact is that she had access at the time to a highly classified report, the National Intelligence Estimate, which contained authoritative doubts that Saddam Hussein had weapons of mass destruction.
Gerth and Van Natta have established that she did not read this report. Because it was classified, senators wishing to read it had to sign in, and Hillary did not. Although one of her Democratic colleagues, Bob Graham, then chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee, urged Hillary and all the other Democratic senators to read it, few did. Graham, however, read the ninety-page document and was so shaken by the questionable evidence for the existence of WMDs that he voted against going to war.
In fairness to Hillary, she is not the only Democratic presidential aspirant who had a chance to read the National Intelligence Estimate and did not. John Edwards did not read it either and also voted for war. Since then Edwards, unlike Hillary, has recanted his vote, but he still has some explaining to do. Also with some explaining to do are Joe Biden and Christopher Dodd, two other Democratic senators running for the nomination. But Hillary is the only one saying that she would still vote for war knowing what she did then.
If her vote was "a sincere vote based on the facts and assurances that I had at the time," what exactly is a "sincere vote"? Why did Clinton vote to send Americans and Iraqis their doom without reading a report throwing cold water on the reasons she later gave for supporting the war? And as for the assurances, where did she get them? From intelligence sources or from her political advisers?
There is more than one dead hand snatching at Hillary's ankles. Why, Gerth and Van Natta ask, did she accept the Bush-Cheney line that there was a connection between Al Qaeda and Saddam? Not only the National Intelligence Estimate but other intelligence reports available to her as a senator said it simply was not true.
Yet another hand slapping the ground and grasping for Hilary's ankle is what Gerth and Van Natta call "the forgotten vote." They write: "For all the scrutiny of Clinton's vote, an important moment has been lost. It came several hours earlier, on Oct. 10, 2002, the same day Clinton spoke about why she would support the Iraq-war authorization.
"In her remarks on the Senate floor, she stressed the need for diplomacy with Iraq on the part of the Bush administration and insisted she wasn't voting for 'any new doctrine of pre-emption, or for unilateralism.' Yet just a few hours after her speech, Clinton voted against an amendment to the war resolution that would have required the diplomatic emphasis that Clinton had gone on record as supporting–and that she now says she had favored all along….
Safely seated in the armor-plated political machine of her candidacy, Hillary Clinton has not had to explain her vote against the "diplomacy first" amendment. Nor has she had to answer for not reading the National Intelligence Estimate before voting to send thousands of people to their deaths.


Photography is no longer the preserve of people with truly disposable incomes. As soon as you realise there's a sophisticated camera in your pocket, it's a new way to see the world. Because that's what picture taking really is. A way to be mindful, as Buddhists would say. A way to look at things afresh. Reframing the universe with a click. You leave some bits in, you leave some bits out.
Here's what I left in, all shot on my smart phone around Beijing.
2. A boat game for kids, with the theme "Diaoyu Islands belong to China"
4. A condemned neighbourhood in Beijing - the character "chai" means "demolish"


The British Sign and Graphics Association (BSGA) is the leading trade organisation for the sign industry in the United Kingdom.
Our history dates back over 70 years to the 1930s when a group of leading sign makers formed the Master Sign Makers Association (MSMA) with the aim of promoting the sign industry and defending its interests against adverse legislation with a 'Signs Defence Fund'.
"The treasurer had received the sum of eight guineas to date and he suggested that we send this sum together with two guineas from general funds up to headquarters as a first instalment to the Signs Defence Fund.
In the 1970s, the MSMA changed its name to the British Sign Association (BSA) with the intention of becoming more inclusive and opening membership up to the ever increasing number of smaller sign making businesses.
At the start of the new millennium, in recognition of the advances in technology and the involvement of sign businesses in delivering a constantly expanding range of products and services, the association again re-branded to the British Sign and Graphics Association (BSGA).
Today, the BSGA emblem is recognised as the mark of a quality sign maker.
All members of the Association are vetted prior to acceptance and are subject to the BSGA Code of Practice and Obligations of Membership which set the standards required in terms of both product quality and customer service. Breaches of these standards may result in censure and/or disqualification from membership.
Membership of the BSGA makes a clear statement about a sign business and anyone who has responsibility for buying signs should give serious consideration to employing the services of a BSGA member. In the event of any problem arising over work undertaken by a member, the BSGA offers a fair and effective dispute resolution service.
Use of the BSGA is strictly controlled and the emblem is now a registered trademark. Any misuse of the logo is treated very seriously.
Membership of the Association includes every type and size of sign business, from craftsman sign writers, through businesses that manufacture architectural and illuminated signs, to those that specialise the production of vinyl signage, vehicle liveries and digitally produced signs.
The BSGA also represents a number of additional sign related business sectors including sign installers, designers and specialist consultants as well as businesses that manufacture and/or distribute materials, equipment and services used by sign makers.
The Association is run by elected and volunteer members who sit on the Council and a number of specialist committees, including technical, marketing and finance. The day-to-day business of the Association is carried out by a full time Director and staff.
Read more about why you should join the BSGA and information about how to join.


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George Lucas Not Involved In INDIANA JONES 5 Writing
The original Indiana Jones trilogy was an amazing collaboration between two titans in storytelling – George Lucas and Steven Spielberg. The two hammered out the basic concept with Lucas providing story ideas which Spielberg bringing them to life. It was a partnership that worked fairly well for the original trilogy, but posed some problems when it came time for them to reunite for 2008's Indiana Jones And The Kingdom Of The Crystal Skull. Many felt that the issues in that movie could be traced back to Lucas's insistence that the film's MacGuffin focus on aliens, a nod to the prevalence of sci-fi B-movies of Crystal Skull's 1950s setting.
When it was announced last year that Spielberg, Lucasfilm and Disney were beginning development on a fifth Indiana Jones film, Lucas's name was conspicuously absent. We noted at the time it was probably due to his selling of his company to Disney pretty much signaled his retirement and that he wouldn't be involved in the new film. In an interview with Collider, Kingdom Of The Crystal Skull and now Indiana Jones 5 screenwriter David Koepp that Lucas is not participating in the new project.
He's not, to my knowledge. I've had no contact with him.
Koepp did go on to admit that perhaps aliens was not the best choice for Crystal Skull and hinted that there was much thought that went into what the film will will revolve around this next time.
I think that what [Indy] looks for and when he looks for it dictates what the movie's gonna be. So the selection of the MacGuffin is everything. I think Kingdom of the Crystal Skull, being set in 1957 there was a conscious desire to say, 'Much like two of the other ones were World War II movies set in the 30s and early 40s, this is '57 so a lot of our influences are gonna be science-fiction movies.' You got that with the original [script], Jeb Stuart took the first shot at it with Indiana Jones And The Saucer Men From Mars. That was a really conscious decision that dictated a lot about what the story would be and what the movie would be like, and I think that was followed through on really nicely. I thought Steve did a really good job with that. I don't know that the idea was most suited to an Indiana Jones movie, but that was what we did. So we tried to be very careful with the selection of the MacGuffin and the eras to give ourselves as much latitude to make the best kind of Indiana Jones movie that we most want to see. Learning how that's the importance of the choice of the MacGuffin is a big deal…
For me it was the MacGuffin dictates everything, and so we tried to make the best possible choice we could. Not that nobody didn't try to make the best choice that they could in the past, but we tried to give us the one that gave us the Indiana Jones movie we most wanted to see.
Koepp also stated that he hopes that production on Indiana Jones 5 could begin sometime next year. That could be rather unrealistically optimistic. Currently, Spielberg is set to start work on the true story drama The Kidnapping of Edgardo Mortara at the beginning of next year. It is looking as if the bulk of production and post-production could take up most of 2017, which could conceivably push an Indiana Jones 5 start date back to 2018. Still, that should be plenty of time to meet the already announced release date of July 19, 2019 that Disney has set.
Did Harrison Ford Use Han Solo To Get INDIANA JONES 5?
October 28, 2013 William Gatevackes Movie News
Rumor has it that the star wouldn't sign on for STAR WARS VII unless work got started on the Indy sequel. [click for more]
Steven Spielberg Says "No" To Recasting Harrison Ford In Future INDIANA JONES films
December 3, 2015 Rich Drees Movie News
So if we get a fifth INDIANA JONES, it will be with Harrison Ford under the iconic fedora. [click for more]
HISTORY OF THE COMIC BOOK FILM: Spidey's Rise And Fall
November 22, 2013 William Gatevackes Comics And Film, Featured Stories, History Comic Book Film, Movie News
We look at the good and the bad of the Raimi trilogy today. [click for more]
Ted Wood
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Newcastle omicron COVID outbreak places growing pressure on frontline health workers
Newcastle Herald, 28 December 2021
GROWING pressures on the Hunter's healthcare system has frontline staff questioning how long they can hold on before they reach breaking point, as COVID hospitalisation rates continue to climb.
Attempts to manage the growing risk of infection, with many staff already in isolation, coupled with the impact of cutbacks to the region's GP Access services is taking its toll. General practice is also feeling the strain as it pivots to manage and oversee the care of patients managing with COVID at home.
John Hunter Hospital-based senior staff specialist and and researcher, professor Nick Talley, said he is 'really worried' about the hospital system. "The furloughing, the fact that we're going to infect other people in hospital ... it becomes potentially dangerous to go to hospital, which means it's terrible for society because people with other problems who need to be in hospital are either going to be put at risk or not go to hospital," he said. "Now that's a disaster."
Daily hospital admissions due to COVID have reached 27 in Hunter New England, close to the peak of 30 reached on October 8 during the Delta outbreak. To get through the door, patients brought in to emergency departments by ambulance must undergo rapid antigen tests, and those with respiratory symptoms cannot go to Belmont Hospital which does not have the facilities to cater for patients with COVID.
A nurse based at the John Hunter Hospital's emergency department said there were 'extensive' waiting times on Christmas and Boxing Day of four-to six hours.
"There were quite long wait times on Christmas evening as well, with not having the opportunity to be able to send people out and away (to GP Access clinics) obviously that brought more people in," she said.
"I know that the ambulances were ramped on Boxing Day - they had to stay with their patients for periods of time all day, from the start of the day ... so they were obviously taking up priority beds because they were unwell."
The Medical Director of GP Access After Hours, Dr Lee Fong, said the closure of the Calvary Mater's GP Access clinic was a concern.
"It is a particular concern at a time when COVID infections have been rising across the state, and it remains unclear what the impact will be on our healthcare system," he said. "If there is a significant stress on our healthcare worker staffing and ICU beds in particular, any remaining capacity we can utilise across our healthcare network, including GP Access After Hours, will be extremely important."
The combination and cumulative effect of those issues is also putting added pressure on paramedics, along the closure of several Hunter ambulance stations, including Kurri Kurri and Tanilba Bay, following staff COVID cases over the past week. All paramedics are now required to undergo rapid antigen testing at the start of each shift.
"The workload has been phenomenal over the Christmas period, that's true for right across the state," one ambulance officer told the Newcastle Herald.
"We were down 3.5 cars on Christmas Eve. There has been an increase in the loss of staff due to iso requirements and that will no doubt continue."
Another paramedic said COVID-related PPE requirements meant it was taking longer to attend to patients than ever. "Ultimately we would love the ambulance service to give us more staff. We are at breaking point and just hanging on. I would say we are coping, but only just at the moment. The whole system is under a great deal of strain and I don't see things improving."
Health Services Union general secretary Gerard Hayes said cutbacks in GP services, following the closure of GP Access at Newcastle's Calvary Mater hospital on Christmas Eve, and reduced hours elsewhere, would also inevitably lead to enhanced numbers of ED presentations and create more front end issues.
"At the moment we are seeing in NSW hospitals 2000 staff furloughed a day, that in itself becomes a workforce problem and then the enhanced presentation of more normal illnesses and injuries on top of the COVID presentations, it's going to become pretty tough for the hospitals," he said.
https://www.newcastleherald.com.au/story/7565180/newcastle-covid-outbreak-a-growing-strain-on-frontline-staff/


Its annual turn-over is 14.8 MEuros (2012), and it employs 110 staff.
The Central Procurement Company (ARCA) operates in Lombardy (more than 9,9 million of inhabitants, and the Italian region with the highest number of municipalities – 1,547). Set up in 2007 as the direction "Centrale Regionale Acquisti" of "Lombardia Informatica ltd", 100% owned by the Region, from April 2014, ARCA is set up as a Public stock company.
At present, there are more than 200 Public Institutions that buy goods and services from the tendering procedures published by the Company.
The research team involved in the project will be made up of the researchers linked to the Spanish Observatory of Public Procurement, located at the Law School of the University of Zaragoza. UNIZAR coordinates this think tank that involves academic members from several Spanish Universities, who have focused their research on public procurement, and professionals, including members of advisory committees of regional and state governments.
ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability is an international membership network embracing over 1,000 cities, towns, counties, regions and their associations, of which some 200 are located in Europe. ICLEI works with these and numerous other local governments through performance-based, results-oriented campaigns and programmes to achieve tangible improvements in global environmental and sustainable urban development.
Established in 2004 by Apulia Region (Regional Law no.1/2004), ARTI became fully operative in 2005. ARTI is a main tool to realize the specific objectives set in the Puglia Region Innovation Strategy, based on the role of Research and Innovation for economic growth and social cohesion.
Today, its vision can be described as follows: "to become the agoras of innovation In Apulia". Therefore, ARTI's activity aims at promoting and satisfying both the demand for innovation expressed by enterprises and local productive systems and the qualification of human resources, its main function being the strengthening of the regional innovation players and of the relationships among them, in order to help and develop technological transfer from research to industry. In line with the national and European policies, the Agency concurs to the sustainable growth of Apulia, by promoting a network of relationships and exchanges among those involved in the creation and use of new knowledge and new technologies and by stimulating and encouraging innovative behaviors in the region. While operating in these lines of activity, ARTI develops actions and projects partially financed by regional, national and European funds.
VTT is a multi technological research organization providing high-end technology solutions and innovation services. From its wide knowledge base, VTT can combine different technologies, create new innovations and a wide range of world-class technologies and applied research services, thus improving its clients' competitiveness and competence. VTT Group is the largest public applied research institution in Northern Europe with a staff of 3,200 and turnover M€316 (2012).
Deltares is the Dutch national institute for applied geophysical, ecological and policy-related research and development applied to and in delta areas. The mission of Deltares is to develop, acquire, apply and disseminate integral, multidisciplinary knowledge and knowledge products related to living and working in delta (coastal, estuarine and riverine) areas, on an internationally leading level. With this, Deltares supports public authorities, private parties and society in their operations and ambitions, related to sustainable development of delta regions and adjacent areas.
TEHA is a consultancy firm that has developed services, tools and innovative method to develop companies/public administration and that has developed a leadership position in Italy within the specific area of pre-commercial public procurement and procurement of innovative solution. By the initiative of TEH-Ambrosetti, the delineation of the framework for carrying out PCP in Italy started in 2007, following the EC's definition of the PCP concept and having activated a pragmatic discussion with the public and private sector in Italy to develop a knowledge base about possible implementation scenarios.
WssTP is the Water supply and sanitation Technology Platform, initiated by the European Commission in 2004 to promote coordination and collaboration of Research and Technology Development in the water industry. WssTP provides strategic answers for the water research future challenges and has 70 members and 210 contributors from Industries, Academics, Research, Policy Makers and Water Utilities.
WssTP is led by industries in collaboration with academics, research organizations and water users to improve efficiency and financial opportunities in the sector. The board of directors of WssTP is currently drawn from across various European countries and represents industry, academia, research centers, public utilities and water users.
APE is a Belgium-based non-profit making international association which brings together public utilities (and their regional/national associations) from different European Countries. Overall, its members provide water and sanitation services to over 40 million European citizens, including some important cities, such as Paris, Brussels, Geneva, Milan and Lisbon region.
APE's main objective is to promote technological cooperation and best practices exchange among members, with a view to enhancing their industrial performances and the quality of services they provide to end users.
Knowledge Transfer Network is the UK's Innovation Network. KTN connects people to speed up innovation, solve problems and find markets for new ideas.
Established by Innovate UK to build better links between science, creativity and business, the Knowledge Transfer Network has specialist teams covering all significant sectors of the economy. Our expertise in connecting sectors, disciplines and skills with the right collaborations and business approach is what helps unlock the tremendous hidden value in people and companies.
The city of Rotterdam has the largest port in Europe, and is one of Europe's biggest logistics hubs. To adapt with the changing climate, Rotterdam needs to redevelop the city and undertake the necessary climate adaptive measures. The Rijnhaven development, a 22ha redevelopment starting in 2015, will be a pilot case where an innovative procurement scheme is used which strongly relates to ´best value procurement´.
Furthermore the city is partnering in several private-public innovation projects. These include the Rotterdam Innovative Nutrients Energy Water plant (pilot plant to close the water cycle in an innovative and durable way through the re-use of effluent water).


iOS 7 finally brought Notification Center to the lock screen but for a very long time before that, we have had tweaks like Dashboard X that lets you control notifications and system settings without unlocking your device. ayra is a new Cydia release that brings the Notification Center to the iPhone's lock screen, but in a way that is totally different from iOS 7. Sure, you have to swipe downwards to reveal the NC, but that's where all the similarities end. With ayra, you get a bunch of system toggles much like SBSettings, and the notifications displayed in it are interactive, much like in Android. You can handle each notification individually by choosing to dismiss it or launch the corresponding app. In addition to all these great features, ayra has a lovely interface, and an iOS 7-like translucent look to it.
ayra adds a menu of its own to the stock Settings app, but the main changes are made to the lock screen automatically once you install the tweak to your iPhone. To see ayra in action, go to the lock screen and swipe down from the arrow displayed at the top of the screen. Even before that though, you are sure to notice the transparency brought to the mix by the tweak. If your device is on charging, there is no black screen and the wallpaper remains visible behind the battery icon. The status bar and the lock screen slider turn transparent as well.
Inside the actual ayra NC, instead of widgets, the top of the screen houses a set of system toggles. There are a total of 16 toggles offered by the tweak, and you can access all of them by swiping across the list. If you want to change their order, head to the tweak's menu in the Settings app. This menu also has a toggle that can let you disable ayra altogether, but that requires a respring in order to take effect.
For notifications, you just have to tap each one to get the 'Remove' and 'Launch' options. The default slide-to-unlock gestures remains functional as well. To dismiss the the ayra Notification Center, simply hit the Home button or swipe upwards from the bottom of the screen.
ayra is available in the BigBoss repo of the Cydia store. The tweak costs $1.99, and if you have been looking a little enviously at the iOS 7 Notification Center, it's a must-have. Once iOS 7 comes out though, ayra might become redundant.


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Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Next Generation
Halloween Scene: Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Next Generation (1994)
Wow, I haven't been this torn between liking and hating a movie in a while. I remember seeing the box for this movie at my nearby Family Video (my main source for horror movies), but for some reason it was ALWAYS in the new release section and I was too cheap to rent those movies, I was more a fan of the 2 for $1 VHS rentals. So today was the first time I've watched the flick which stars Renee Zellweger and Matthew McConaughey.
There is a lot wrong with this movie. First off, the kids all end up in one car driving for a few minutes away from prom and yet, later in the movie when Zellweger is running away NOTHING IS AROUND. It doesn't make much sense. Another huge negative for me is this version of Leatherface. Instead of behing this huge, imposing, terifying mostly silent force of nature he's a yowling little wuss and as far as I can tell he's not actually wearing a mask of a human face but a wooden one in the beginning.
But it's not all bad. McConaughey is pretty scary and completely gives himself over to the character of a complete psychopath, though I'm not sure why he has a robot leg brace. Many of his scenes are even pretty scary as the camera doesn't cut away from his lunatic behavior. I also like the performances by the actors who play Barry and Heather. Barry's a total asshole who I loved hating. His lines are hilarious as many of them star with "Everybody knows you're…" "It's not my fault you…" or "My father is a…" He actually sounds like a character that Danny McBride would play today. And Heather is the dumb blonde girl who actually knows the score saying "There's people in the woods who are going to chase us down and kill us and lock us in cabinets." It's actually funny later when she tells Barry that she doesn't really believe any of the things she says, she just does it because she's bored and then all those things happen. Funny stuff.
Another character I really like is Darla who seems normal at first but (surprise surprise) turns out to be related to the Sawyer family. She's McConaughey's girlfriend or wife or something and she really does a great job of it. It's hard to explain her role, she's kind of frank and logical, seems like Renee but also loves the insane McConaughey, but hates his brothers (Leatherface and the quote-spewing and attributing W.E.. She's the funniest part of the movie.
And I think that's why I couldn't get a good grip on the movie, I had trouble figuring out if it was taking itself seriously or not because there are some seriously crazy parts. The best scene that Leatherface is in is his first where he grabs Heather and it's very physical and real-looking. But he's screaming the whole freaking time like a woman and wearing a jerry curl wig/pelt of some kind that just looks stupid.
As you'd expect the whole end of the movie involves a dinner scene with Renee trying to escape from the house over and over again. There's a bunch of scary-ish scenes, but it could border on torture-porn for some folks. At one point Darla confides in Renee that Matthew works for the Illuminati (the people who make the world go round). I kind of expected it to just go nowhere, but later on a dude shows up and says he's disapointed in Matthew for not spreading enough horror (or something). I have no idea what this means. The dude disapears, some more craziness happens and then Renee gets away and into an RV as Leatherface runs behind her dressed in a woman's suit with what looks like a large woman's chest skin under his jacket. It looks RIDICULOUS. Anyway, you think she's okay until they show up in a truck with Leatherface swinging his chainsaw at the RV until it goes off the road and flips over. Then, Matthew's chasing Renee and is just about to get her when a plane you saw a few minutes before and just assumed was a crop duster shoots him in the head. Then she turns around and there's a car right behind her with the weird dude from before in it. Leatherface seems freaked out and does a stupid chainsaw dance when the car pulls away. Ridonculous.
I've read that this is some peoples' favorite TCM follow up. I can't say if I even have one. I've got to watch 2 again and Leatherface (aka TCM 3) for the first time. I've also got the TCM remake's sequel ready to watch from Blockbuster so look out for that.
Finally, I have to put a call out to all of you folks who are so good at re-cutting movies into trailers like Must Love Jaws or 10 Commandments I Hate About You NEED to recut TCM: TNG into a romantic comedy trailer. PLEASE! I'll give you a dollar and link the crap out of it.
Posted in Horror, Kicking It Old School, MoviesTagged Halloween Scene, Horror, Kicking It Old School, Kim Henkel, Leatherface, Matthew McConaughey, Movie Review, Renee Zellweger, Slasher, Texas Chainsaw Massacre, Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Next GenerationLeave a comment


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Sea transport posts positive growth
January, 10/2018 - 09:00
The maritime transport sector achieved positive growth last year, but the international logistics industry faced many challenges, according to the Việt Nam Maritime Administration (Vinamarine).
A view of Hải Phòng seaport. The country's maritime transport service posted positive growth last year with shipping volume through seaports totalling 536.4 million tonnes of cargo, up 17 per cent year-on-year. — VNA/VNS Photo Lâm Khánh
HÀ NỘI — The maritime transport sector achieved positive growth last year, but the international logistics industry faced many challenges, according to the Việt Nam Maritime Administration (Vinamarine).
At a recent conference about the maritime transport sector, Vinamarine said the shipping volume of Vietnamese vessels last year totalled 130.9 million tonnes of cargo, up 6 per cent from 2016.
Domestic ships are now undertaking nearly 100 per cent of domestic sea shipping, except for shipping of LPG and bulk cement.
Since 2014 to the end of 2017, river-sea compatible ships transported 36.2 million tonnes of cargo.
Last year, they completed 22,000 shipments, an increase of 67 per cent year-on-year. Shipping volume was 18.5 tonnes of cargo, up 56 per cent from 2016.
Bùi Thiên Thu, deputy head of Vinamarine, said the country as of December last year had a total of 1,594 marine transport vessels.
Of these, there were only 40 container ships, accounting for 5 per cent of total capacity.
"This is the reason why our marine vessels run mainly on short-distance routes like Southeast and Northeast Asia and hold only 10 per cent of Vietnamese export-import shipping by sea," he said.
He said Vietnamese seaports achieved high growth last year with shipping volume via all seaports totalling 536.4 million tonnes of cargo, up 17 per cent year-on-year.
The number could have been higher but there was a shortage of "a logistics value chain", he added.
At a recent seminar on Vietnamese logistics organised by Thời báo kinh tế Việt Nam (Việt Nam Economic Times), Thu said Vietnamese inland ports, or Inland Container Depots (ICD), are logistics centres but do not link with railways, domestic waterways and airways, which increases costs.
Logistics firms are facing difficulties such as low quality seaports, low rate of seaport and loading and unloading charges, and lengthy administrative procedures.
He said though the country has 1,300 logistics and maritime services companies, most of them partner with or provide logistics services for another firm.
Foreign logistics companies are still the main players in the field, he added.
Deputy Minister of Transport Nguyễn Văn Công said the Cái Mép-Thị Vải seaport received for the first time vessels weighing 200,000 tonnes in 2017, a significant event as the route is now considered an important international seaport.
But he emphasised the importance of developing the route into a logistics hub.
"At the moment, HCM City has 6 ICDs, Bình Dương has two and Đồng Nai has three," he said. "Their locations are convenient for supporting transport of export-import goods from seaports. This is very important for the development of nearby seaports in the region. But it's necessary to strengthen connections with other means of transport to facilitate the shipping of goods from one warehouse to another."
He praised the national one-door customs policy, which was launched at nine seaports. Together with online customs clearance services, it has helped save time and money for firms.
He also said more meetings and seminars should be held with logistics firms and associations with the aim of working toward increasing seaport services charges to help firms earn more money so they can adopt new technology and restructure their businesses.
More measures are also needed to prevent logistics firms from unfair price competition. — VNS
Tags Vietnam Vietnam News news
VN shares up on earnings prospects
Vietnamese shares advanced for a second session on Tuesday as investors remained upbeat over the firms that are expected to deliver good results in the earnings season.
SBV not to print small currency notes for Tết, says cash only for payment, not offerings
The State Bank of Việt Nam (SBV) has announced it will not be printing small currency notes for Tết (the Lunar New Year) this time too, the sixth straight year it has desisted from doing so.
VNPT to help Hà Giang become smart city
Việt Nam Posts and Telecommunications Group (VNPT) signed a memorandum of understanding with Hà Giang Province People's Committee to support the northernmost mountainous province to develop into a smart city.
G-bonds worth over $7 billion issued in 2017
G-bonds worth VNĐ159.9 trillion (US$7.04 billion) and having an average maturity of 13.52 years, up 4.81 years against 2016, were issued last year, according to the Ministry of Finance.
Foreign logistics firms now allowed in VN
Foreign investors will be allowed to establish companies providing logistics services following Decree 163, which will take effect on February 20.
2025 maritime industry and trade development plan approved
Minister of Industry and Trade Trần Tuấn Anh has approved a plan to develop Việt Nam's maritime industry and trade until 2025, with a vision until 2035.
Local firms encouraged to seek Middle East trade
The Department of Asia-Africa Markets under the Ministry of Industry and Trade has encouraged local businesses to promote trade with their Middle East counterparts.
Đức Giang Corporation achieves profit target in 2017
The Đức Giang Corporation (Dugarco), one of Việt Nam's leading garment enterprises, aims to earn VNĐ3.3 trillion (US$144 billion) in revenue and VNĐ48 billion in profit this year.
No smaller banknotes to be issued for Tết
The State Bank of Việt Nam will not issue new banknotes with denominations lower than VNĐ5,000 (22 US cents) for Tết (Lunar New Year) to cut costs.


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Italy Serie A results & scorers (16th matchday)
Follow Ahram Online's coverage of Italy Serie A matches of the 2021/2022 season (4/6 December)
Unvaccinated Italians face new restrictions as holidays near
Italy is making life more uncomfortable for unvaccinated people as the holidays draw near, excluding them from indoor restaurants, theaters and museums to reduce the spread of coronavirus and encourage vaccine skeptics to get their shots.
Euro 2020 final review finds England fans endangered lives
Aggression by England fans at the European Championship final exposed an "embarrassing" part of the national culture that endangered lives and should lead to fans being barred from stadiums if they are chanting abuse and under the influence of drugs or alcohol, an investigation into the disorder has concluded.
Follow Ahram Online's coverage of Italy Serie A matches of the 2021/2022 season (30 November - 2 December)
Playing in Italy helped me a lot: Egypt's Golden Foot winner Salah
Liverpool star winger Mohamed Salah said in an interview with Sky Sport Italia after winning the 2021 Golden Foot Award on Monday that playing in Italy's Serie A helped him a lot to develop his football career.
Follow Ahram Online's coverage of Italy Serie A matches of the 2021/2022 season (26 -28 November)
Italy announces first case of new Covid variant
Italy on Saturday said it had detected its first case of the new Omicron strain of Covid-19 in a traveler from Mozambique.
European champions Italy, Portugal in same World Cup play-off bracket
European champions Italy and Portugal could meet for a place at the 2022 World Cup after being drawn in the same play-off path on Friday.
New virus variant emerges in Africa, stokes worldwide fears
The discovery of a new coronavirus variant sent a chill through much of the world Friday as nations raced to halt air travel, markets fell sharply and scientists held emergency meetings to weigh the exact risks, which were largely unknown.
93 asylum seekers evacuated from Libya to Italy: UNHCR
A group of 93 asylum seekers stuck in Libya were evacuated to Italy on Thursday in the first flight of its kind in two years, the UN refugee agency said.
Italy towns under partial lockdown amid COVID-19 infection rise
Twenty small towns in northern Italy's autonomous South Tyrol province went into a partial lockdown Wednesday to try to contain rising coronavirus infections and save the key winter tourism season in one of the least-vaccinated parts of Italy.
Follow Ahram Online's coverage of Italy Serie A matches of the 2021/2022 season (20-.22 November)
75 migrants drown in Mediterranean off Libya: IOM
The United Nations' migration agency said 75 migrants drowned in the Mediterranean Sea north of Libya earlier this week as they attempted to reach Italy by boat.
Sports - Africa
Ghana's Prince Boateng back at hometown club Hertha: 'I'm the boss'
Fourteen years after leaving Hertha Berlin on an odyssey through teams in England, Spain, Italy and Turkey, Prince Boateng is back at his hometown club for possibly the final chapter in a colorful career.
G7 calls for Belarus to end migrant crisis immediately
G7 foreign ministers urged Belarus Thursday to end a migrant crisis on its border with Poland, accusing it of callously engineering the stand-off and putting lives at risk.
Israel's top court freezes return of boy, 6, to Italy
Israel's Supreme Court on Wednesday ordered a freeze on returning a 6-year-old boy who survived a cable car crash in Italy to his relatives there until it decides whether to hear an appeal by family members in Israel.
We need to remain completely calm until March: Italy coach Mancini
Italy is facing another detour to get to a World Cup final.
Egypt - Courts & Law
Italian Coast Guard rescues 550 migrants including Egyptians from stormy seas
The Italian Coast Guard on Sunday safely brought to shore more than 550 migrants, many of them young men or boys from Egypt, from storm-tossed waters off the southern "toe" of Italy's mainland, as human traffickers increasingly use a new route
Italian Coast Guard rescues 300 migrants from stormy seas
The Italian Coast Guard has rescued more than 300 young men and boys, most of them from Egypt, from a storm-battered fishing boat in rough seas off the southern ``toe'' of Italy's mainland.
Cyprus police to probe how docked migrant boat slipped away
Cyprus police have suspended one officer and 11 constables after launching an investigation into how a boat loaded with migrants gave them the slip and continued its journey to Italy after docking at a local harbor.


The Jonathan LeVine Gallery is pleased to announce the availability of new sculptural works by renowned artist Michael Leavitt.
In his latest series of sculptures Leavitt juxtaposes classic archetypal roles embodied by fabled Star Wars characters with a famed cast of pop-culture personae. These unique, hand-carved works can be viewed at the Jonathan LeVine Gallery exhibition page Michael Leavitt Empire Peaks at JONATHAN LEVINE GALLERY (http://jonathanlevinegallery.com/?method=Exhibit.ExhibitDescription&ExhibitID=6F6140B1-0271-FC1C-6068C5615EDC953D). For inquiries regarding prices and availability please contact info@jonathanlevinegallery.com.
Not a fan of any of those, they look well made though..., just not for me.
He definitely has skills and I applaud him for making a living with those skills but I do not agree with many of the inferred messages of his smash ups.
Figures. Only two posts. Registered as a member just to push his political crap onto us. I feel insulted that he choose Star Wars as the theme for his Mash Ups, and wish I had never clicked the link. Suckered into giving him a hit for his gallery images.


the way of a ship, she will go anywhere.
When you're sitting at the helm and looking forward to the pulpit, the feel of the absolute power in the wind as she storms through seas, fifteen thousand pounds of sheer delight, dancing, you will know that the desire to sail is one of youth. The tapered stanchions and mast reduce drag, so she will want to sail, she will want to head upwind, so use the autohelm, use the windvane, use all the sail devices on board to keep her safe, not over powered, nor under powered.
She is a big boat, but you must never force anything on her. If something does not want to go, have patience, for there is a reason, look up, look port, look starboard and find the problem.
starboard before you climb into the ample double berth up front.
Outside, on the coach roof, you'll notice the heftiness of the handrails. Manufactured boats aren't built like "Sara J". Her hand rails topside are three or four times the thickness of her manufactured contemporaries.
Solar panel - 2.5 Amp.
Main 8.5 oz. 253 sq. ft.
Staysail 8.5 oz 170 sq. ft.
Yankee 8.5 oz. 275 sq. ft.
Genoa 6 oz. 435 sq. ft.
Storm Jib 10 oz. 101 sq. ft.
Storm trysail 10 Oz. 90 sq' ft.


Following a pursuit of professional football, Big Spence, began his career with A-Core in 1996. Like many other managers Spencer starting as an operator and grew within the Company, to now be Branch Manager. His years with the company not only reflect his love and dedication but it shows in his work just how much pride he takes in what he does. Whether its running a service truck or calling on collections Spencer has done it all, which is why he has seen so much success over the years. Spencer has lot of dam' experience, however his project experience spans an array of industries such as: Dworshak Dam, Box Canyon Dam, McNary Lock & Dam, John Day Dam, Mountain Home AFB, Micron, bridge demolition, and highway expansion and repair projects. Today, Spencer prides himself on building steadfast relationships with the crews he works with and community of contractors he serve. Spencer is a devout husband to "Dixie-Dawn". His most notable achievement is being the step-father of three and father of two wonderful kids that cherish the joy in serving their fellow man. Spencer and his family currently resides in Kuna, Idaho, where he enjoys building things with wood, fishing, camping, shooting. The fastest way to Spencer's heart is through is stomach…he loves to eat.