The Institute for Politics is a political research institute at Roosevelt University. It is a non-partisan operation whose main purpose is to present clear and unbiased analysis of state and local elections in Illinois to educate and inform citizens, journalists, and elected officials about ongoing state and local elections.
The Institute for Politics was founded in 2005 with Professor Paul Green as the director. For many years, Professor Green had written about state and local politics in Illinois – centering much of his attention on elections, political parties, and changing geo-political demographics. It was his view that there was no single source to find non-partisan analyses of election results or trends and that students, citizens and others had to rely mainly on sketchy journalistic articles or biased political broadsides put out by hired public relation spin doctors. The Institute sought and received a technology grant from AT&T Illinois to promote its mission of providing non-partisan election analysis. The Institute used the grant to produce the technology to provide readable and understandable election analysis for all Illinois citizens via tables, maps, charts and prose.
On September 10, 2016, Professor Paul Green passed away suddenly. Paul taught more than a generation of students since his arrival at Roosevelt University in 1999, hired every member of our current Department of Political Science and Public Administration, and published widely and influentially, both in local media and through multiple editions of his classic study of Chicago mayoral politics. Paul was a fixture on the Chicago political landscape, making frequent media appearances and offering incisive political commentary on the ins and outs of city, state, and national politics. Since 2011, Paul also served as Chairman of the City Club of Chicago, which remembered him for his "boundless commitment to the free exchange of ideas in a forum of civility, respect, and always, good humor." We remember him for those qualities and for his tremendous collegiality, and he will be sorely missed.
Condolences for Paul's passing came from colleagues, former and current students, local and state politicians, members of the media, and from the general public.


Rachel and I enjoyed our first date thirteen years ago at a special restaurant on the Delmar Loop in St. Louis named Riddles. Today, the place is named Three Kings. It's still good. We visit the Loop almost every weekend for a quirky movie at the Tivoli, a visit to Plow Sharing Crafts, and lunch at one of the locally owned restaurants. We don't have tattoos, but if we did, I'm sure they would come from the Iron Age tattoo studio. The Delmar Loop has been recognized as one of the top ten streets in America. We were saddened to hear the news this past Sunday that a small group of late-night protestors/vandals had chosen to break the windows of several store fronts along the Loop. I guess they figured that vandalizing a tattoo studio, bookstore, free-trade gift store, and frozen yogurt shop would make a poignant political statement. The mostly peaceful protests around the city had been in response to a white police officer being acquitted of a murder charge in the shooting of an African American man.
As we talked about it Sunday morning, Rachel and I decided that it was an important time to support the businesses that we had been frequenting for more than a decade. All are locally-owned and employ a very diverse group of people. We weren't sure what would be open, but our plan was to walk up and down the Loop and offer our patronage. The trip turned out to be a wonderful surprise.
The first sight that we encountered was a reporter and camera crew set up near the statue of Chuck Berry. This is across the street from the Blueberry Hill restaurant. The reporter was interviewing a handsome young man dressed in a white dress shirt. There were lots of people on the sidewalk, but no one seemed to be paying attention to the interview. The young man was Missouri's Governor, Eric Greitens. He had been on the news during the week trying to balance support for peaceful demonstrators and for law enforcement personnel, trying to maintain safety on the streets.
Rachel and I had seen photos on the internet of broken windows in front of many businesses that we knew. News reports said that there were more than twenty businesses that were damaged. As I looked around, I did not see any broken windows. The stores and restaurants all looked open and most looked busy. The entire scene felt energetic. When I commented that I was surprised how quickly everything had been fixed, Rachel pointed out the plywood covering parts of most storefronts. The plywood was painted white and blended in with each building's façade. Filling the sidewalk in front of almost every piece of white plywood were people with paint brushes and containers of colorful paint, creating beauty where there had been destruction just a few hours earlier. Like the Delmar Loop itself, the artists were a diverse group of characters. There were kids, teens, young adults, and older folks. We saw African American, Caucasian, and Asian artists. There was an even split between men and women. The paintings were big and colorful. They captured the emotions of the day, reflecting themes of peace, harmony, and diversity. We stopped to talk with a few of the artists. Two women shared with us that they were a mom and daughter from the neighborhood. They had seen a post asking artists to come down and help transform the Loop.
I'd like to say thanks to the thousands of individuals who made their voices heard this week in peaceful ways. Thanks to the Loop business owners and workers who showed resiliency during an unusual time. And especially, thanks to the men, women, and kids who picked up a broom or brush and transformed a special neighborhood.
This is what community looks like!
This past weekend Rachel and I visited our son, Dan and his wife, Susie in Nashville. When we entered the living room of their beautiful home, I nudged Rachel and nodded toward the far end of the fluffy area rug. Stretched out and sound asleep, was an old friend, Linus. We were happy and a bit surprised to see him. We knew that his time was growing short. As we approached, he awoke, stood, stretched, and looked toward us. Because of his blindness, he more sensed us than looked at us. As I patted his side and greeted my "buddy", Linus leaned against me and wagged his tail in his happy way. Susie and Dan smiled and said that he hadn't been wagging his tail often these days.
I would describe Linus as a medium-sized dog. Susie said he was a cockapoo. That must mean part cocker spaniel and part poodle. He had a shaggy, light colored coat, and hair hung over his eyes. When Linus looked up at you, you could see large white cataracts, covering both eyes. He was fourteen years old. Linus had been hit by a car a few years ago and been badly injured. It might have slowed him down, but in the years that we knew him, he seemed pretty mobile. Watching Linus walk around his large home was always amazing to observe. He had his routes memorized, and while he would bump into things gently with his nose, he was efficient at finding his food and water, bed, and especially, his people. Linus had a very comfortable relationship with his partner in crime, Butters, a small chocolate-colored chihuahua.
Neither Rachel or I had ever owned a dog, or had a personal relationship with one. My mom always told us that some of my siblings had allergies. I'm not sure if that was true, or whether it was more that seven kids in a small house was crazy enough. In any case, we were a little nervous when Dan asked us to dog sit Linus a few years ago, when both he and Susie were going to be traveling for several days, visiting friends and family to announce their engagement. Because of his special needs, they were not comfortable leaving Linus in a kennel, and since I had recently retired, I would be able to offer more care and attention. Honestly, we didn't know quite what to expect, but we were game to give it a go.
Dan and Susie provided us with all of the important supplies and comfort items. We learned that Linus would be our house guest for almost two weeks. That was a little longer than we had expected, but that was okay. At first I thought we would have Linus stay in our finished basement. It is comfortable and compact, and he could have his own space. Dan just smiled and said that the basement idea would not be the best. So we put up a baby gate at the top of the basement stairs. That way he wouldn't have an unexpected tumble.
The days went quickly and we enjoyed our furry houseguest. We laugh, looking back on the experience, at the closeness of our new friendship, especially for Linus and me. Dan had warned us that Linus was most comfortable when he was close to his people. It probably had to do with not being able to see the people in his environment. What that meant was that wherever you were in the room and whatever you were doing, it was likely that Linus would be there at your feet. If you look at the picture at the top of this story, you will notice my feet in the picture of Linus. We spent a lot of time that week like that. Our sleeping arrangements turned out to be the funniest. The first night, we tried to have Linus sleep on the floor, near the foot of our bed. We carefully scrunched up his sleeping blanket and arranged it in the perfect spot. Nope, that was not going to meet his needs. Linus communicated very clearly that he needed a lift up onto the bed. He wasn't able to make the jump on or off the bed on his own. He spent that first night sleeping diagonally on the bed, between Rachel and me. He seemed very comfortable and slept soundly. In the morning Rachel grabbed her pillow and a few odds and ends and let me know that she would be moving to the guest bedroom in the basement. She would let "the boys" share the bed in the master bedroom. Needless to say, Linus and I spent a lot of time together, both night and day. He put up with me, and I got to know him pretty well too.
Linus passed away early yesterday morning. While a sad event, Rachel and I were glad that we happened to be visiting and got to see our friend one last time. Our memories are happy ones and still make us laugh aloud.
Farewell, buddy. Keep that tail wagging!
The paperback version of Painted Wings was just published by Cedar Lake Publishing and is now available on Amazon.com. The cover design was by Peggy Nehmen at N-K Creative in St. Louis, and the formatting was done by Jason and Marina at Polgarus Studio in Australia. My amazing editor was Stephanie Ernst.
Over the years, I have heard from many readers that they prefer the feel of an actual book over an e-reader. It's exciting that my first three books are now available in both Kindle and paperback versions.
Painted Wings is a sophisticated romance novel with several twists and turns. It is a story that celebrates diversity and the beauty that can be found in differences.
On Mother's Day Rachel and I visited Laurel, Matt, and the grandkids in Manassas, Virginia. We always enjoyed our visits with them. Emma and Ian would get some quality play-time with Grandpa and Mimi. Laurel and Matt would get some rare alone-time to do errands and have a date night. We had planned on going to their cabin in the mountains of West Virginia, but the weather did not cooperate. As an alternate plan, Matt arranged a very special tour of the FBI Training Academy in Quantico, Virginia.
Matt has been an FBI agent for several years. He was a computer scientist at Microsoft in Seattle before hearing the call to service following the terrorist attacks on 9-11. These days, Matt works as a squad leader in an FBI office that specializes in cyber-crime. He was the perfect guide for our private tour, since Matt went through the grueling, five-month training program a few years ago.
The New Agent Training Program includes classroom instruction on topics like investigative techniques, law, behavioral science, forensics, and interrogation methods. New agents must pass rigorous physical fitness tests and demonstrate proficiency with a number of different firearms. Trainees are placed in real-life situations in a simulated town, where actors play criminals, and trainees are required to think on their feet as they respond to the scenarios.
The FBI Training Academy is located on the sprawling Marine Corps Base in Quantico, Virginia, about 40 miles from Washington, D.C. The Academy takes up 547 acres. To enter we passed through a security gate manned by Marines and a second gate manned by FBI personnel. I was struck by the scenic forest that we drove through and the beautiful landscaping of the grounds. We drove around the campus, as Matt gave us descriptions of the various facilities. These included dormitories, classrooms, physical fitness gyms and tracks, firing ranges, and a large forensics laboratory building. We passed an entire area of the campus dedicated to Hostage Rescue Training, an important sub-specialty within the FBI.
The parking area in front of the main administration building was crowded, and there seemed to be quite a bit of activity for a Sunday afternoon. Several young men and a few young women were unloading suitcases and garment bags from their cars. All of the men were dressed in coats and ties. We would see many more well-coiffed, young people when we went inside the building. Matt told us that this was a special day at the Academy. These were members of a new trainee class, arriving for the start of their five month program. Most of the trainees looked like they already were in pretty good physical shape. Some looked like they might have played college sports. As I watched their faces, I saw both excitement and some nervous expressions. I wondered what part of the training would create the most anxiety for the new agents. I noticed one trainee who didn't quite fit the mold. He looked like he had never worn a suit before and had borrowed one for the occasion from someone who wore a larger size. He had longer hair and a few days growth of beard. I thought he looked like a young, absent-minded professor. Later, I asked Matt about the diversity of his class from a few years earlier. He said that there were thirty trainees in his class. Ages ranged from mid-twenties to mid-thirties. Most were men. Matt shared that they came from a variety of backgrounds. A few had law enforcement and military experience. But there were also teachers, accountants, lawyers, and even computer scientists!
We spent the next few hours touring several buildings and walking around the campus. Along the way, we passed lots of different trainees and instructors, some walking alone and some in groups. Different categories could be identified by the color of their shirts. For example, the dark green polo-shirts belonged to trainees and instructors in the National Academy. This special program provides advanced law enforcement training to experienced personnel from agencies across the US and from over 150 different countries. Almost everyone we passed would greet us with a very formal, "Good afternoon, Sir" or "Happy Mother's Day, Mam." When I passed one young Asian gentleman with a green shirt, he put his hands together in front of his chest and bowed to me. Matt pointed out that the regular trainees carried blue plastic guns on their belts. This was designed to help them get used to the feeling of being armed at all times.
One of my favorite movies is Silence of the Lambs. Jodie Foster plays Clarice Starling, an FBI Academy trainee. Matt said that this was the first time that the FBI had participated in the filming of a major motion picture. Most of the training scenes were shot around the campus. Walking around, I recognized the setting for several scenes from the movie. We saw the gymnasium where Clarice practiced hand-to-hand combat skills. We walked through Hogan's Alley, where she walked through a car chase scenario on her way to meet with Agent Crawford, the head of the Behavioral Science Unit. We saw the wooden signs nailed to a tree near the end of the obstacle course that weaves through the woods around the Academy. In the movie the signs spelled out these words: Hurt, Agony, Pain, and Love It. The actual group of signs included a few more: Family, Pride, Attitude, Respect, and Loyalty. I wondered how recently those signs had been added. Matt reported that the obstacle course was affectionately referred to as the Yellow Brick Road. Trainees were awarded an actual yellow brick when they completed this challenge. I thought that was fun, as The Wizard of Oz is one of my other favorite movies.
We walked through Hogan's Alley, the small town built for training simulations. It included a bank, post office, pharmacy, motel, small office building, bar, and even a working Subway restaurant. I wondered what nefarious criminal activities took place in these innocent looking buildings. Most were unlocked and we enjoyed checking a few of them out. Matt described one of the simulations he did in the office building, serving a subpoena to a disturbed businessman. I found two metal shell casings on the ground in front of a building used to practice forced entries into buildings. What better souvenirs of our visit.
Near the end of our walking tour, we entered the main gymnasium. Again, there seemed to be a lot of activity going on. Along one wall were tables of food. In another area were a variety of games that one might find at an amusement park or carnival. A gregarious National Academy instructor waived us over and insisted that we help ourselves to pizza, popcorn, and cookies. He explained that the Academy was hosting a special group of kids for the day. The kids came from all over the country, and each of them had lost a parent in the line of duty. The day combined lots of fun activities for the kids, along with classes and counseling. The kids had already eaten, and there was a ton of food left over. Emma and Ian were more than happy to comply, and we enjoyed our feast, sitting in the grass outside of the building.
All in all, it was a fascinating and thought provoking day. The trainees and instructors who we encountered were bright, professional, and dignified. The sacrifices that they are making are significant. The risks that they are willing to take for their country are substantial. Their motivations come from somewhere beyond personal recognition and reward. Like my son-in-law, Matt, they have found a calling to serve. At a time when leadership from some of our highest elected officials is suspect and lacks even a semblance of dignity, it was reassuring to see that some institutions have maintained their integrity. I am very proud of Matt and thankful to the men and women who work to keep us safe.
The paperback version of Mended Wings is now available from Amazon.com. The publication date was April 27, 2017. Thanks to Peggy Nehmen from N-K Creative for the beautiful cover. Thanks to Jason and Marina from Pulgarus Studios in Australia for the formatting of the book's interior. I hear from lots of readers that they still prefer holding a real book, rather than an e-book reader. I hope you enjoy! I am working on the print version of my first novel, Painted Wings and hope to have that available in the next few months.
Rachel made the arrangements for the lodging for our seventeen nights in New Zealand. She surprised me when she described the accommodations for the two nights we would spend about an hour's drive from the movie set from the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movies. We had reservations for an evening tour and hobbit banquet at the actual Green Dragon in the Shire. Rachel found a most fitting place for us to stay. It was called Underhill and would be our own, private hobbit hole.
Underhill was located on a working farm, a few miles outside of the town of Hamilton on the north island. Many years ago, before hobbits had been made famous by the movies, the farmer had built a single room, earth home next to a pond. It sounded like an early version of a man cave. The farm was passed down to the farmer's daughter and her husband, and they decided to turn the earth home into a one-room bed and breakfast. Because of its resemblance to a cozy, hobbit hole, they named it Underhill.
Rachel and I found the farm without difficulty. We parked our rental car next to a fence by the farmhouse. We had only been in country for a few days and were still getting used to driving on the left side of the road with the steering wheel on the right side of the car. Our hostess came out to greet us and helped us load our suitcases into the back of an ATV for transport to our lodging. We climbed in and rode down a dirt track that meandered through the farm. It would have been a muddy and difficult trek on foot. After coming down a steep hill, we reached a final gate. On the other side was Underhill.
The main structure was carved into the hillside. The floor, walls and roof were constructed of natural stone and concrete. Grass grew on top of the roof and around the outside walls. Two large, wooden barn doors made up most of the building's front wall. They were wide open, exposing the single room to fresh air, sunlight, and any other bits of nature that might want to enter. Walkways and stairs around the neat compound were built with natural stone and boulders. To the right of the house, built into the hill, was a small patio. On the patio was an ornate bathtub. Rachel and I had encountered outdoor showers during our adventures in Costa Rica, but never an outdoor bathtub. It reminded us of the television commercial for Cialis.
Two small buildings had been built near the outdoor tub. One housed a modern shower and sink. We would learn that the running water system used rainwater. The other small building enclosed a composting toilet. The instructions said to sprinkle sawdust over everything after you had used the toilet. There was no electricity at Underhill. There were a few battery-powered lanterns. The main lighting at night was provided by candles. There was a large candelabra on the table in the center of the room and many other candle sticks located on other walls and surfaces. A coal-fired stove was available for heat and cooking, and we were given instructions on how to use it.
The natural landscaping around Underhill added to the charm of the setting. A wooden deck extended out into a small pond, filled with Lilly pads. An old wooden bridge passed over a different part of the pond, allowing access to the other side. Cows could be seen grazing on a distant hillside, and we were told that we might be visited by some friendly llamas who lived on the farm.
As we were being introduced to our new abode, our hostess mentioned that because of the natural construction and surroundings, there were mice that sometimes visited, especially at night. We were assured that they stayed under the cupboards by the sink, and that the traps were currently empty. Rachel and I were a little overwhelmed by the day, and I don't think either of us really reacted to the idea of sharing our room with small, furry guests .
The set up for meals was very simple. Later in the afternoon, the farmer delivered a portable ice chest with our dinner preparations and breakfast food. The menu for dinner included a large porterhouse steak, a package of eight giant sausages, a bag of salad fixings, a loaf of bread, and two pieces of chocolate cake. We laughed at how the meal was quite heavy on the protein side. There was a new-looking gas grill for cooking the meat. Breakfast consisted of yogurt, granola, and more fresh bread.
We spent the afternoon relaxing around our private hobbit hole and enjoying the property. I even did my Tai Chi routine out on the deck, looking out on the pond. Early in the evening, I grilled our steaks, and we enjoyed our meal, sitting out on the deck. We were struck by how quiet and serene our surrounding were, not your typical bed and breakfast.
It had been a stimulating day, and we chose to go to bed early. The bed was custom designed for the space and was unique. It was built into one wall and the shape was irregular and rounded. The person sleeping on the inside was against the stone wall and would have to climb over the other person to get out of bed. Rachel offered to take the inside. We got out our headlamps, placed them near the bed, and blew out the candles. It was very dark. We had just begun to doze off when we heard the first scratching coming from the cupboards under the sink. For the next few hours we listened to intermittent mouse activity, hoping that eventually they would figure out that there was no food out. Instead of the noises going away, they eventually changed in character. In addition to the scratching, now there was a banging and even high pitched mouse vocalizations. I told Rachel that I thought a mouse must be caught in a trap. It was time for a midnight, wild animal safari!
Rachel and I had learned, as seasoned adventurers, that sometimes you have to improvise and make do with the tools that you find around you. I donned my headlamp and explored the kitchen area for weapons. I found a heavy sauce pan and a spatula. Rachel intervened and encouraged me to switch out the spatula for a set of salad tongs. With the headlamp switched on and armed with a dangerous sauce pan, I slowly opened the cupboard door. Inside was a mouse with one limb caught in a spring trap. He or she was dragging the trap around and banging into anything that was encountered. At a different time, I might have evaluated a variety of possible actions. But not that night. I bonked him with the sauce pan, picked him up with the salad tongs, and plopped him in the pan. I carried the pan outside and left it to be dealt with in the morning. My heart was beating a mile a minute!


As the last quarter of the year approaches, we in the cooperative world begin to address Capital Credits. Most members, both residential and businesses, will ask "what are capital credits?" As a not-for-profit electric utility and like most businesses, SECO Energy sets an annual budget to pay operating costs, make payments on loans and ensure a reserve for emergencies. At the end of the year, expenses are subtracted from collected revenue and the remaining balance is referred to as margins. Based on the financial strength of the cooperative and member equity, SECO's Board of Trustees annually makes a determination to refund a portion of these margins also known as Capital Credits. These Capital Credits represent the member's share of ownership or "member equity" in SECO Energy.
Through 2017, SECO Energy has returned $57.8 million in Capital Credits to our membership. These distributions, returned to the members, are expressed as general retirements and are typically paid out each November. Current members receive a credit on their electric bill and former members receive a check if the amount exceeds $10.00. Capital Credits are issued to businesses in the same manner as individuals. Therefore, it is important to notify SECO Energy if your account status changes. Having updated contact information on file, especially a valid mailing address, will ensure Capital Credits accumulated in your name continue to make their way to you in the future. Don't be like others who have moved away and didn't update their information resulting in unclaimed Capital Credits on our books. For a complete list of unclaimed Capital Credits accounts, both residential and commercial, visit our Unclaimed Capital Credits page.
Team building exercises boost morale, improve communication, motivate employees to be more productive and to get to know each other better. If you think team building activities must meet strict criteria to produce benefits, then think again. Sometimes, just an offsite activity that allows your employees to interact away from the workplace is all you need. Maybe, a visit to Blackjack Sporting Clays in Sumterville is in order.
Blackjack Sporting Clays is a beautiful facility nestled among thousands of acres of pristine Florida landscape. Dale Walker, owner/operator, describes his venue as a "country club" for folks that want to shoot with some of the finest equipment in the business. He offers something for everyone at all levels of the shooting sport spectrum. A beautifully decorated clubhouse with TVs and a billiard table are available for non-shooters or those waiting to shoot.
Each course at Blackjack Sporting Clays is laid out along a paved path that meanders through "old Florida" type landscape. There are two separate 16 station courses, and an additional six station Sub-Gauge Course. Along with these courses, there is also a standard five stand range as well. The shooting stations are fully covered with drinking water and restroom facilities throughout each course. Golf cart and gun rentals are available. There is even a large pavilion with seating for 300+ available for public and private use.
To find out more about this "country club for folks that want to shoot," visit Blackjack Sporting Clays online or stop by and check out their beautiful facility at 3372 County Road 526 in Sumterville, Florida.
The Lake County Water Authority (LCWA) is committed to conserving and protecting freshwater resources. In 2007, they invested in a state-of-the-art facility designed to remove 67% of pollutants from water, specifically from the Harris Chain of Lakes. "The facility, known as the Lake County Nutrient Reduction Facility (NuRF), is the largest of its design in the world and is very unique in operation" according to Ron Hart, Chief Scientist with LCWA. The results of the facility are clear and so is the positive impact it is having on our environment.
Served by SECO Energy, NuRF is located at the headend of the Chain of Lakes, west of Astatula, on County Road 48. The plant takes in water from Lake Apopka, the "single largest controllable source of water pollution in Lake County," according to LCWA. The water is cleaned by a process of injecting liquid alum which binds with the pollutants to create snowflake-like particles. The particles, referred to as floc, fall like snowflakes from the water to the bottom of two 9-acre holding ponds. Once the floc or pollutants have settled on the bottom of the pond they are dredged and pumped to a centrifuge. Like a washer, wringing water from clothes, the centrifuge separates the water from the floc – a process known as dewatering. The clean water is then pumped back into the canal feeding the Harris Chain of Lakes. The floc is allowed to dry and used in several beneficial applications such as landfill cover.
Lakes Beauclair, Dora, Eustis and Griffin are the biggest benefactors of the Nutrient Reduction Facility. The process of removing the targeted algae-feeding nutrients results in increased water clarity allowing for beneficial plant growth and better fish habitat.
In a day and age where water quality is becoming more and more of a hot topic, our hats are off to LCWA for pro-actively taking steps to enhance water quality in Central Florida. Visit the LWCA website to learn more about the NuRF Facility.


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Japan-Argentina Relations
Japan-Argentina Summit Meeting
Photo: Cabinet Public Relations Office
On Friday, April 1, from 3:18 p.m. to 3:42 p.m. (local time), Mr. Shinzo Abe, Prime Minister of Japan, who is currently in Washington DC to attend the Nuclear Security Summit, held a meeting with H.E. Mr. Mauricio Macri, President of the Argentine Republic. The overview from the meeting is as follows.
1 Opening remarks
(1) Prime Minister Abe congratulated President Macri on his inauguration and formation of a new government, and explained that Japan supports and has expectations for the open, free economic policy adopted right after President Macri took office and Argentina's return to the international economy and global stage.
(2) President Macri commented that the two countries have an important relationship with a long history and shared values and expressed his hope for the meeting to strengthen relations between the two countries.
2 Bilateral political relationship
(1) The two leaders agreed to promote high-level dialogue and visits between the two countries.
(2) The two leaders agreed to resume policy discussions at the senior official level aimed at achieving closer cooperation in dealing with regional and international issues.
3 Bilateral economic relationship
(1) The two leaders confirmed the importance of the Japan-Argentina Joint Committee on the Economy as a forum for dialogue by business communities in the two countries amid high expectations that Japanese companies have for Argentina's economic potential. The two leaders also agreed to create a discussion framework led by the two Governments which includes participation by the business world and thereby promotes investment, trade developments, and efforts to improve the business environment.
(2) Prime Minister Abe expressed his hope for President Macri to exercise leadership in making the Common Market of the South (Mercosur) an entity that is open to non-regional parties and has interest in stimulating dialogue between Japan and Mercosur.
4 Cooperation in international affairs
The two leaders exchanged opinions on terrorism, the situation in North Korea, and other topics and confirmed their cooperation toward the achievement of regional peace and stability. Prime Minister Abe explained the policy of ''Proactive Contribution to Peace,'' which is based on Japan's international cooperation, as well as Japan's ''Legislation for Peace and Security'' initiatives, and President Macri commented that Argentina intends to cooperate with Japan in all areas related to international peace.
Prime Minister Abe Attends the 2016 Nuclear Security Summit (March 30 - April 2, 2016)
Japan-Argentine Relations
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Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan 2-2-1 Kasumigaseki, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-8919, Japan MAPPhone: +81-(0)3-3580-3311 Japan Corporate Number(JCN): 9000012040001

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EPA to Propose Rules Cutting Methane Emissions From Oil and Gas Drilling
WASHINGTON—The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on Tuesday will propose the first-ever federal regulations to cut methane emissions from the nation's oil and natural-gas industry, according to people familiar with the move, which is part of President Barack Obama's climate agenda.
The EPA is expected to propose regulations aimed at cutting methane emissions from the oil and gas sector by 40% to 45% over the next decade from 2012 levels, said a person familiar with the plan. That was the goal the agency said earlier this year it would pursue when it first unveiled its plans.
The move is part of a broader regulatory agenda Mr. Obama is pursuing as he seeks to make addressing climate change a legacy of his time in the White House. Earlier this month, EPA issued final rules cutting carbon emissions from power plants 32% by 2030 based on emissions levels from 2005.
Tuesday's announcement also reflects the Obama administration's middle-ground approach it's taken so far with the oil and gas industry. The Interior Department said on Monday it has issued a permit to Royal Dutch Shell to drill for oil and natural gas in the Arctic Ocean, providing the company a long-sought victory and angering environmentalists who say the move goes counter to Mr. Obama's commitment to addressing climate change. (by AMY HARDER, Wall Street Journal)
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© 2015 WORLD ENERGY SOURCE
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Persistent, ambitious and always willing to help others succeed in life. I love math and showing students different ways in approaching and conquering math is my goal in life.
I taught classes (form 3's and 4's), corrected SBA's (School Based Assessment) and assisted students with tutoring outside of the classroom. I helped administered examinations and used manipulative in the classroom to bring math across in a new way.
needs and Reanna will reply soon.


The big news is that we are now delivering our custom blended Premium rabbit feed. You can join our Facebook page called Feed and Supply Delivery to be notified of our delivery locations, dates and times. You can order any item from our website for free delivery to these locations.
We have added a new flavor of our Magic Rejuvenator.
We now can offer Pumpkin Magic in addition to our other flavors of Cherry, Raspberry, Peach, Pineapple, Blueberry and Strawberry.
Our store facility has been impacted by the fire and we are unable to access and ship orders at this time. Hopefully we can resume normal (or almost) operations by September 25th. I apologize for the inconvenience.
The Shopping Cart is up!
Barbi Brown and company have been brought kicking and screaming into the 21st Century with a shopping cart!
Please be patient with this old gal while we work out the kinks. Your input is appreciated. Tell us what works and what doesn't for you and if we can fix it, we will.
Thanks as always for your continued patronage at Barbi Brown's Bunnies!


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Why Victorious.Club is the Best White Label Fantasy Sports Software
by root | Jan 4, 2023 | blog, Fantasy Mobile Apps, Fantasy Sports, Fantasy Sports Betting, Sports Betting, Sports Business
Introduction: Fantasy sports have become a popular pastime for sports fans around the world, allowing them to build and manage their own virtual teams using real players from their favorite sports leagues. However, for businesses looking to enter the fantasy sports...


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Хосе Паоло Гереро Гонсалес () е перуански футболист, роден на 1 януари 1984 в Лима, Перу.

Кариера
Паоло Гереро прави първи стъпки във футбола в детските и юношеските формации на Алианса Лима, където вкарва над 200 гола. През 2002 г. преминава в младежкия отбор на Байерн Мюнхен, като през 2003 стига до дублиращия отбор, който играе в Южната регионална лига. След 21 гола в 24 мача през сезон 2003/2004 Гереро е повикан да играе в А отбора. През 2006 подписва договор с Хамбургер ШФ до 2010 г., като трансферната сума се равнява на 2,8 милиона евро. През сезон 2007/2008 вкарва 9 гола за първенство и се нарежда на трето място в отбора по този показател.

Първите си мачове за националния отбор изиграва по време на квалификациите за Световното първенство през 2006. През 2007 участва на Копа Америка, където стига до полуфинал. Играе в четири мача и вкарва гол в първия от тях. През юни 2008 г. е наказан от ФИФА за 6 мача за обида срещу съдията на мача с Уругвай от световните квалификации.

Успехи

Клубни
 Шампион на Германия: 2005, 2006 (с Байерн)
 Носител на Купата на Германия: 2005, 2006 (с Байерн)
 Носител на Купата на лигата: 2004 (с Байерн)
 Носител на Купа Интертото: 2007 (с Хамбургер)
 Шампион на Южната регионална лига: 2004 (с Байерн II)
 Световно клубно първенство: 2012 (с Коринтианс)
 Кампеонато Палуста: 2013 (с Коринтианс)
 Рекопа Судамерикана: 2013 (с Коринтианс)
 Шампион на Бразилия: 2015 (с Коринтианс)

Индивидуални
 Голмайстор на Южната регионална лига: 2003/2004 с 21 гола (с Байерн II)
 Голмайстор на Копа Америка: 2011 (с Перу)

Гереро, Паоло
Гереро, Паоло
Футболисти на Байерн Мюнхен
Родени в Лима

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


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Сирецький гай — парк-пам'ятка садово-паркового мистецтва загальнодержавного значення, розташований на території Шевченківського та Подільського районів міста Києва.

Розташування
Розташований вздовж вул. Стеценка (обабіч), від її перетину з вул. Саратовською і до залізничної колії. Загальна площа парку — 175,6 га, у тому числі в Шевченківському районі — 82,9 га та Подільському — 92,7 га.

Паркова територія межує на південному сході по залізничній колії з парком «Нивки» (східна частина), а на півночі — з Сирецьким дендропарком.

Відпочинкова інфраструктура
У гаю виставлена велика кількість лісових меблів, влаштовано куточки відпочинку, дитячий майданчик, фонтан із джерельною водою.

По вул. Стеценка, 1, розташований ресторан «Дубки», виконаний у стилі народної дерев'яної архітектури (архітектор В.Гопкало).

Галерея

Примітки

Джерела

Парки Шевченківського району
Парки Подільського району
Парки-пам'ятки садово-паркового мистецтва Києва
Рекреація Києва
1972 у Києві
Туризм у Києві


SINGAPORE (Feb 1): Schroders Wealth Management has acquired the wealth management business of Thirdrock Group, a Singapore-based asset manager with a client asset under management (AUM) of about $3 billion.
In a Friday announcement, Schroders says Thirdrock Group will be merged with its existing Singapore business and operate under the Schroders Wealth Management brand.
As a result, Thirdrock's employees – including relationship managers and portfolio managers as well as the existing management team – will transition to Schroders Wealth Management offices in both Singapore and Hong Kong.
Thirdrock's CEO and founder Jason Lai will join Schroders Wealth Management in a leadership role. Specifically, he will spearhead the drive to gross Schroders' regional business as Head of Wealth Management Asia.
On the other hand, Thirdrock co-founder and investment committee chair, Melvyn Yeo, will take on the role of Deputy Head of Wealth Management Asia.
Both Lai and Yeo will work closely with Simon Lints and Robert Ridland, who are Schroders' Heads of Wealth Management in Singapore and Hong Kong, respectively.
"This deal, combined with our recently announced partnership with Maybank Asset Management, highlights our ambition to build a leading wealth management business in the region," comments Peter Hall, Global Head of Wealth Management at Schroders.
"Jason and his team are excellent additions to our existing team and Jason will now take the lead in achieving that ambition and hiring top talent within the region," he adds.


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1993 National Health and Health Care Key Votes
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About the Selection and Descriptions of Key Votes
Vote Smart provides easy access to congressional and state voting records and maintains a collection of key votes grouped by issue. Vote Smart uses the following criteria to select key votes:
The vote should be helpful in portraying how a member stands on a particular issue
The vote should be clear for any person to understand
The vote has received media attention
The vote was passed or defeated by a very close margin
Occasionally, if a specific bill is consistently inquired about on the Voter's Research Hotline, the vote will be added
Vote Smart provides a summary of the version of the bill text associated with each selected key vote. Our summaries are written by Vote Smart's staff and interns, who adhere to our strict policies and procedures in order to guarantee absolute impartiality and accuracy. They do not necessarily reflect the content of the final version of the bill, but rather the version voted on in that stage. While many procedural votes take place before a full chamber vote, our voting stages reflect the final reading of each chamber vote. Each key vote selection is reviewed by the project's community of advisors, who are political scientists and journalists from all fifty states.
For more information about the legislative process, see here.
Bill No.
Nov. 22, 1993 National H Amdt 416 Penny Amendment to the Government Reform and Savings Act of 1993 Amendment Rejected - House (213 - 219)
Nov. 18, 1993 National HR 796 Abortion Clinic Access Bill Motion Rejected - House (182 - 246)
Nov. 9, 1993 National HR 2520 Interior Department Fiscal Year 1994 Appropriations Bill Conference Report Adopted - Senate (91 - 9)
Oct. 19, 1993 National HR 2491 Veterans Administration and Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Bill Fiscal Year 1994 Conference Report Adopted - House (341 - 89)
Oct. 18, 1993 National HR 2518 Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Bill Conference Report Adopted - Senate (80 - 15)
Oct. 7, 1993 National HR 2518 Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Bill Conference Report Adopted - House (311 - 115)
Sept. 29, 1993 National HR 2518 Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Bill Bill Passed - Senate (82 - 17)
Sept. 29, 1993 National HR 2401 Fiscal Year 1994 Defense Authorization Bill Bill Passed - House (268 - 162)
Sept. 22, 1993 National HR 2491 Veterans Administration and Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Bill Fiscal Year 1994 Bill Passed - Senate (91 - 9)
Sept. 8, 1993 National HR 2010 National Service Bill Conference Report Adopted - Senate (57 - 40)
Sept. 7, 1993 National PN 452 M. Joycelyn Elders, United States Surgeon General Nomination Confirmed - Senate (65 - 34)
Aug. 6, 1993 National HR 2010 National Service Bill Conference Report Adopted - House (275 - 152)
Aug. 3, 1993 National HR 2010 National Service Bill Bill Passed - Senate (58 - 41)
July 28, 1993 National HR 2010 National Service Bill Bill Passed - House (275 - 152)
July 15, 1993 National HR 2520 Interior Department Fiscal Year 1994 Appropriations Bill Bill Passed - House (278 - 138)
June 30, 1993 National HR 2518 Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Bill Bill Passed - House (305 - 124)
June 29, 1993 National HR 2491 Veterans Administration and Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Bill Fiscal Year 1994 Bill Passed - House (313 - 110)
May 4, 1993 National S 171 Department of the Environment Act Bill Passed - Senate (79 - 15)
March 25, 1993 National HR 670 Abortion Counseling Bill Motion Rejected - House (179 - 243)
March 25, 1993 National HR 670 Abortion Counseling Bill Bill Passed - House (273 - 149)
March 11, 1993 National HR 4 Fetal Tissue Research Bill Bill Passed - House (283 - 131)
Feb. 18, 1993 National S Amdt 39 Prohibiting Immigrants with AIDS from entering the United States Amendment Adopted - Senate (76 - 23)
Feb. 3, 1993 National HR 1 Family & Medical Leave Bill Bill Passed - House (265 - 163)
11/22 H Amdt 416 Penny Amendment to the Government Reform and Savings Act of 1993 Amendment Rejected - House (213 - 219)
11/18 HR 796 Abortion Clinic Access Bill Motion Rejected - House (182 - 246)
11/09 HR 2520 Interior Department Fiscal Year 1994 Appropriations Bill Conference Report Adopted - Senate (91 - 9)
10/19 HR 2491 Veterans Administration and Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Bill Fiscal Year 1994 Conference Report Adopted - House (341 - 89)
10/18 HR 2518 Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Bill Conference Report Adopted - Senate (80 - 15)
10/07 HR 2518 Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Bill Conference Report Adopted - House (311 - 115)
9/29 HR 2518 Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Bill Bill Passed - Senate (82 - 17)
9/29 HR 2401 Fiscal Year 1994 Defense Authorization Bill Bill Passed - House (268 - 162)
9/22 HR 2491 Veterans Administration and Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Bill Fiscal Year 1994 Bill Passed - Senate (91 - 9)
9/08 HR 2010 National Service Bill Conference Report Adopted - Senate (57 - 40)
9/07 PN 452 M. Joycelyn Elders, United States Surgeon General Nomination Confirmed - Senate (65 - 34)
8/06 HR 2010 National Service Bill Conference Report Adopted - House (275 - 152)
8/03 HR 2010 National Service Bill Bill Passed - Senate (58 - 41)
7/28 HR 2010 National Service Bill Bill Passed - House (275 - 152)
7/15 HR 2520 Interior Department Fiscal Year 1994 Appropriations Bill Bill Passed - House (278 - 138)
6/30 HR 2518 Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Bill Bill Passed - House (305 - 124)
6/29 HR 2491 Veterans Administration and Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Bill Fiscal Year 1994 Bill Passed - House (313 - 110)
5/04 S 171 Department of the Environment Act Bill Passed - Senate (79 - 15)
3/25 HR 670 Abortion Counseling Bill Motion Rejected - House (179 - 243)
3/25 HR 670 Abortion Counseling Bill Bill Passed - House (273 - 149)
3/11 HR 4 Fetal Tissue Research Bill Bill Passed - House (283 - 131)
2/18 S Amdt 39 Prohibiting Immigrants with AIDS from entering the United States Amendment Adopted - Senate (76 - 23)
2/03 HR 1 Family & Medical Leave Bill Bill Passed - House (265 - 163)


DataCapable is currently working with major service providers and enterprise vendors in the Electrical Utilities space. We're also collaborating with several federal agencies on initiatives related to promoting the adoption of open data standards.
DataCapable is working in collaboration with one of the foremost academic research institutions in the world on the development of advanced analytics and algorithms for intelligent outage detection and real-time event prediction.
DataCapable's flagship product, UtiliSocial™, was a featured technology at the 2015 DistribuTECH Conference in San Diego, CA. UtiliSocial's technology has been featured in some of the Utility Industry's most widely read publications including 'TD World' and 'Intelligent Utility' Magazine. DataCapable was also recently profiled in the Technology & Entrepreneurship section of Forbes.
DataCapable has partnered with Epicenter Media & Training to improve their products' effectiveness in government and public safety applications, improve client and stakeholder engagement, and help the public sector adopt their critical technology through immersive training/exercises.
Since UtiliSocial and other DataCapable projects are so closely linked to public safety and emergency management applications with a focus on situational awareness and common operating picture, this partnership will benefit Epicenter Media & Training clients/partners in the utility industry, local/state emergency response organizations, as well as private sector technology integrators.


The first ever strategy for adults with autism in England was published in 2010 with a commitment to review this strategy three years later. This strategy was entitled Fulfilling and Rewarding Lives.
In 2013, the Government asked for feedback from adults with autism, parents, carers and professionals about how well the 2010 strategy had been implemented so far.
The new strategy - Think Autism - was published in April 2014. This updated strategy states that all of the existing recommendations and duties from the 2010 strategy still apply to local authorities and NHS bodies.


Swindon Dance's Artistic Director, Marie McCluskey MBE, will retire in January 2016 following 36 years leading one of the UK's pioneering dance organisations.
Marie McCluskey, who established Swindon Dance in 1979, has led the organisation from its beginnings in the Community Arts Department of Swindon Borough Council (formerly Thamesdown Borough Council) through to its transition as an Independent Charitable Trust in 2005.
Marie said "It has been an amazing privilege to have led Swindon Dance and I have been very fortunate to have been supported by outstanding and dedicated staff, teachers and dance artists throughout this time. I have always been continually inspired by the energy & passion of the people of all ages, abilities and interests who have been part of this journey at Swindon Dance, where 'ordinary people have achieved extraordinary things' through the power of dance in their lives."
Swindon Dance has gained a national reputation as a leading centre of dance development and excellence from its base at the Old Town Hall in Swindon. The organisation which has been supported for over three decades by Swindon Borough Council, was awarded National Dance Agency Status in 1991 by the Arts Council of England and is currently a National Portfolio Organisation of the Arts Council. Since 2005 Swindon Dance has received support as a Centre of Advanced Training in Dance for exceptionally talented young dancers, through the Department of Education's Music and Dance Scheme.
"Marie McCluskey's long and distinguished career in dance is nationally recognised. She has been an asset to not only dance in Swindon, but dance across the country."
The Board of Swindon Dance is now recruiting a successor, with the vision and experience to lead Swindon Dance into a new chapter of development and achievement.


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5550 5th Ave. Ste.5, Key West, FL 33040
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Looking for KitchenAid at Certified Appliance Repair, Inc. in Key West, FL?
Certified Appliance Repair, Inc. in Key West, FL is an authorized dealer of KitchenAid Products. KitchenAid is an American home appliance brand owned by Whirlpool Corporation. The company was started in 1919 by The Hobart Corporation to produce stand mixers; the "H-5" was the first model introduced. The company faced stiff competition as rivals moved into this emerging market, and introduced its trademarked silhouette in the 1930s with the model "K", the work of designer Egmont Arens. The brand's stand mixers have changed little in design since, and attachments from the model "K" onwards are compatible with the modern machines. Dishwashers were the second product line to be introduced, in 1949.
In 1985, the company purchased the Chambers Company to incorporate its range of cookers into the KitchenAid brand. Refrigerators were added to the product line later in 1986. KitchenAid began manufacturing blenders and other small appliances in the mid-1990s. The brand was further promoted by sponsoring the PBS show Home Cooking, and by introducing the mixers to television chefs such as Julia Child and Martha Stewart.
So if you are looking for KitchenAid products in Key West, Stock Island, Big Coppitt, Bay Point, Sugarloaf, Cudjoe, Ramrod, Big Pine Key, Islamorada, Tavernier and Key Largo, or if you have any questions about KitchenAid products, please feel free to call us at (305) 296-4066 or simply stop by Certified Appliance Repair, Inc. at any time and we would be glad to help you.
Certified Appliance Repair, Inc.
5550 5th Ave. Ste.5
Email: msc1268@live.com
Mon: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PMM
Sat: By appointment only
Sun: By appointment only


text:
State fixes fares of private buses
ST CORRESPONDENT
The increase in fares is not implemented not only in Maharashtra but outside the State as well. Sakal Times had published a news item "Private bus operators hike fare" on April 26.
PUNE: Private bus operators charge arbitrary fares to passengers during the holiday season. To address this issue, the State government has issued a resolution on the basis of a Bombay High Court directive.
Now, private bus operators will not be allowed to charge more than 50 per cent than the fare charged by the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) buses per kilometre.
As the examinations are over and summer vacations have started, people go on a vacation. Taking advantage of this, private bus operators increase fares by 30 to 50 per cent for long distance journeys. The increase in fares is not implemented not only in Maharashtra but outside the State as well. Sakal Times had published a news item "Private bus operators hike fare" on April 26.
There is a large number of people from Beed, Latur, Nagpur, Osmanabad, Aurangabad, Nashik, Amravati and Jalgaon, who are residing in Pune for jobs, education etc.
Many families go to their hometown after their children's schools are over. Many of them try hard to book train tickets but don't get reserved seats. The only option left with them is to travel by private buses.
Considering the increased demand, private bus operators hike fares by 30-50 per cent per passenger. On Saturdays and Sundays, they charge twice the regular fare.
The government has fixed the maximum fare for private buses in the range between Rs 69.30/km and Rs 169.86/km, depending on the type of bus. At present, MSRTC operates five types of buses. The fare for these buses ranges between Rs 6.30/km and Rs 15.88/km. While leasing out the whole bus, the fare ranges between
Rs 46.20/km and Rs 113.86/km. In the absence of regulations, private bus operators were charging exorbitant fares during festive seasons.
Transport Minister Diwakar Raote on Saturday said the government has decided to fix fares of private and contractual buses to stop the loot of passengers during the holiday season. "Action would be taken against those who are found to be overcharging passengers. Their transport licences will be cancellled," Raote said.
In April 2012, the Bombay HC had directed the state to fix fares of private buses plying on the contract carriage permit. The public interest litigation was filed by Pune-based social activist Asim Sarode.
The state had asked the city-based Central Institute of Road Transport (CIRT) to work out a formula for calculating the maximum fare for private buses. The government stated it has fixed the maximum fare limit to stop financial exploitation of passengers.
fares private bus buses fare hike passenger holiday maharashtra government bombay high court msrtc vacation pune transport travel


text:
Elachi's elegant, soulful home
By Nailantei Kenga | Nov. 26, 2022
Inside Elachi's elegant home. [Nailantei Kenga]
Beatrice Elachi, Member of Parliament Dagoretti North, and former Speaker of the Nairobi County Assembly, finally freed her calendar and gave us a date!
The crew and I were on time to join her at Nyayo Stadium, where she starts her day. Elachi is a member of Parliament's basketball team, and they play every morning at 6am. Gracious, kind-hearted, generous and warm is the vibe I picked from her when I met her after the basketball session.
We went to her home in the suburbs, where I found myself in a hush-hush secret hideaway, a place she escapes to and calls home.
Her elegant home is refreshing, calming and peaceful. I soaked in the warm earth-tone colours of her living room; the different textures, wood ceiling and wooden floor were domineering. The wooden staircase, door, and balcony are undeniably captivating and warm, reflecting her passion for wood and style.
At the entryway, the sun shone through the pitch-transparent roof. She appreciates wood and Earth tone colours. A few art pieces adorn her arc wall, which is also an entry to her sunken living room. One of the iconic pieces is from Langata Women's Prison, who crotchet art pieces. The beautifully framed art pieces are eclectic and unique.
Her entire home is furnished with these art pieces, adding character to her neutral palette walls, and the rustic light fixtures sparkle life and style. Mahogany handcrafted dining chairs and table blend perfectly with the entire home's theme.
A space fit for a celebrity interior designer
Beatrice Elachi's elegant, soulful home
A Jesus portrait stands out. Elachi tells me she is spiritual, that God has favoured her, and that her Christian roots were formed way back in childhood. "If my mum walks into my home and finds it missing, she will wonder what is going on."
Her gorgeous velvet deep brown plush sofa set is embellished with deep orange cushions. A flowery pattern classic brown Persian carpet, a traditional fireplace and an antique side cabinet, which she treasures and sourced from Egypt, are one-of-a-kind and unmatchable. The meticulous display of her family portraits is evident that family comes first.
Her mahogany handcrafted dining chairs and table blend perfectly with the theme of the entire home. She shared that when she was younger, she never envisioned herself as a politician, but as a leader – the likes of Kiraitu Murungi, John Michuki, and Wanjiku Kabira. They played a significant role in inspiring her to be a politician. If the accolades and honorary degree displayed in her home are anything to go by, she has proved to be a trailblazer.
"I am working on a book called Chronicles of City Hall, which will enlighten the public on how City Hall operates, and it will be beneficial to anyone interested in running for office at City Hall," said Elachi.
Her second living room is intimate and has a world-class appeal, which is also her secret place of prayer that feeds her soul. The soft beige sofa set is flattering and attractive. The brown flowery Persian carpet gives a nod to the furniture in the space.
A huge music system utilised when she is unwinding with her daughters by dancing in this room also occupies the space. Her outdoor space is spectacular, with dreamy views and pretty calming, wicker furniture in blue and white. Her screening room is cosy with earth-tone sofas, an enormous screen and Maasai throw blankets. This is where the family meets for movie nights.
Her spacious master ensuite bedroom is bright, with a stunning handcrafted mahogany bed, a treadmill, and a walk-in closet. The huge windows give her room a view of the ever-changing perfect weather view. Elachi's home depicts her love for nature, a relaxed atmosphere and her taste for timeless aesthetics and decadents.
Beatrice Elachi Interior Design
Parenting dilemma: Adult children who won't move out


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| Features
Best '90s Cars to Buy
Johnny HunkinsAuthorHot Rod ArchivesPhotographer
It seemed like yesterday that the motoring press and hot rodders everywhere were raving about the new powerful fuel-injected performers coming out of Detroit. The gearhead magazines of the 1990s focused much time and effort showing fans of modern muscle how to modify the likes of 5-liter Mustangs and LT1 Camaros for better performance, and over the years the OEs regularly raised the bar offering previously unheard-of levels of power from the factory. There's now renewed interest in the cars of the 1990s, and you may well wonder which ones are now ripe for buying.
Fortunately, the best cars to buy from the 1990s is a short list. Even though millions of factory muscle cars were built in the 1990s, those EFI powerplants came in precious few body styles—and as it turns out, not all of them are obvious today. We're going to give you the lowdown on which '90s cars to buy and suggest a few examples of new-age hot rods built on those platforms. We'll get to that in a second, but first some important background info.
The Electronic Fuel Injection Advantage
Compared to today's engines, the fuel-injected engines of yesterday don't seem all that powerful, with most of the top offerings of the '90s landing somewhere between 225 and 350 horsepower. What's more important to remember is that EFI made these V8 engines extraordinarily adept at cutting down on cold-start wear. Starting in the mid-1980s and coming into full swing for the 1990s, electronic fuel injection nearly eliminated this leading cause of engine death from fuel wash, which caused ring and bore wear, oil dilution, valve-guide damage, and carbon deposits. With 80 percent of an engine's lifetime wear occurring within the first 20 seconds of cold run time, the advent of electronic fuel injection has meant the survival of even the most thrashed EFI V8s from the 1990s. When combined with the overdrive transmissions of the day, the number of combustion cycles experienced by each cylinder was significantly reduced as well, meaning your chances of scoring a healthy engine even in a 25-year-old car remain high.
Chevy Caprice Classic / Impala SS B-body (1994 to 1996)
We've been fans of the GM B-body ever since the beginning, and when Chevy built the Impala SS from 1994 to 1996, the rest of the world took notice. Equipped with the fuel-injected LT1 small-block V8 from the Corvette, GM's full-sized sedan suddenly became dad's favorite hot rod. While the Corvette version of the LT1 made an even 300 hp, the Impala SS was rated at 260 hp due to its iron cylinder heads and lower compression, but the torque (at 325 lb-ft.) was plenty spectacular. The twist worked well with the 4L60E's aggressive 3.06:1 First gear ratio, and when combined with the optional 3.08:1-geared posi-traction 10-bolt rear, could leave rubber for days.
Less well known is the fact that Chevy built the exact same car as the Caprice Classic—right down to the LT1 Corvette engine, posi 10-bolt rear, and bulletproof 4L60E transmission. The thing to look for is the engine RPO code "LT1," (see photo above) which calls out the 260hp engine—otherwise Caprice Classics of 1994 to 1996 vintage will have the lesser 4.2L L99 V8. The RPO code tag can usually be found in the glove box and the trunk lid on Chevy Caprice models. See how Ernie Neal turned an ordinary 1996 Caprice Classic into a 10-second NHRA warrior here.
Buick Roadmaster B-body (1994 to 1996)
If the Chevy Caprice Classic got little attention from hot rodders, you can imagine what a snoozer the 1994 to 1996 Buick Roadmaster must have been. Replete with pillowy leather interior and a floaty Dynaride suspension that hid the worst road irregularities, the mid-'90s Buick Roadmaster (1994 to 1996 was the LT1-powered version) was a boat—but it was a fast boat. Otherwise identical mechanically to the Impala SS from 1994 to 1996, the Buick Roadmaster is one of the best '90s cars to buy because it was almost always purchased by older, more affluent buyers who had little interest in the stoplight drags. Today, these big B-bodies can be found on the used market for about the same price as a used Caprice Classic taxi cab or 9C1 police interceptor, with the exception that they are in far better condition and typically have fewer miles on the clock. Good examples can be found for around $5k and you author scored a daily driver Roadmaster (above) a few years ago for $1,200. Get all the hot-rodding details and find out why the 1994 to 1996 Buick Roadmaster is the collector car of the future here.
Cadillac Fleetwood D-body (1994 to 1996)
If you haven't watched Season 1, Episode 5 of Top Gear America, and don't know that TGA star Dax Shepard is a freak for the 1994 to 1996 Cadillac Fleetwood, we'll save you the time and tell you the Fleetwood is once again a product of the GM B-body platform, making it mechanically identical (other than a slightly longer D-body wheelbase) to the Caprice Classic and the Buick Roadmaster. The top-of-the-line Caddy is also one of the best '90s cars to buy due to its torquey fuel-injected 350ci LT1 V8 and four-speed automatic 4L60E transmission, and these will flat-out scoot! For the Cadillac Fleetwood, many of the same aftermarket suspension pieces, brake kits, driveline upgrades, and small-block Chevy—specific power parts like superchargers all interchange with the Buick Roadmaster and Chevy Impala SS. The best part is that you'll have a truly unique whip that after modification will haul ass with the best of them!
Chevy C4 Corvette (1992 to 1996)
The fourth-generation Corvette was built for model years 1984 through 1996, but the ones we're most interested in here are the 1992 to 1996 models with the 300hp LT1 small-block Chevy V8. During the 1990s, the small-block V8 LT1 engine went everywhere GM wanted performance, so if you're ever in doubt about which GM cars from the era were fastest, look no further than the option code tag. We said the Impala SS was fast—and it was—but just imagine another 40 hp and a thousand pounds less weight. The C4 Corvette is positively a slot car compared to the full-sized B-body, and in stock trim could click off low 13-second timeslips all day long. They were even better on the road course where they regularly lapped cars that were twice their price. When equipped with the slick-shifting 6-speed ZF gearbox, heel-and-toe downshifting was a breeze. Light weight, a large tire contact patch, and severe-duty brakes make the C4 Corvette a standout among '90s cars to buy, and when you score one with the 300hp LT1—or better yet—the one-year-only 340hp LT4 of 1996, you'll be pinching yourself over how much performance you can get for the money. See how Robert Lombardi built his 1992 LT1-powered Polo Green Corvette (pictured above) into an explosive street machine with 585 hp here.
As good as the C4 Corvette is, the C5 Corvette is even better. Its design built upon lessons learned from the C4 by moving the transmission to the rear, giving the C5 Corvette a nearly perfect front / rear weight balance. A torque tube solidly connected the engine to the transaxle, housing the driveshaft. This, with a hydroformed chassis, stiffened the car and gave it a razor-sharp response. It was an ideal situation for the revolutionary new LS1 Gen III small-block, which packed the most power ever in a Corvette base engine. When things seemed too good to be true, in 1999 Chevy did the unthinkable and produced the two-year-only FRC (fixed-roof coupe) Corvette, a stripped-down model with no frills, a six-speed manual gearbox, Z51 suspension, and a non-removable top. The package had an MSRP under $40k, making it quite literally the deal of the century. We don't have to tell you how vast the performance market is for the LS1 engine and the C5 Corvette, but we'll do it anyway: the 1997 to 2000 C5 Corvette is one of the best '90s cars to buy!
Pontiac Firebird Formula 350 / Trans Am (1993 to 2002)
Once upon a time, there was a car brand called Pontiac. If there's anything good about being a dead brand it's that Pontiac was spared the awkwardness of having to cancel its politically incorrect brand identity in 2021. Notwithstanding, Pontiac's performance heritage runs long and deep, and in the 1990s the Pontiac Firebird Formula 350 and Trans Am models stood toe-to-toe with the Camaro and Mustang. Built on GM's fourth-generation F-body ponycar platform, the Formula and Trans Am models packed the F-body version (275hp) of the aluminum-headed LT1 from 1993 until 1997, then got an upgrade to the Corvette's LS1 in 1998, which it would keep until the Firebird's demise in 2002.
The fourth-generation F-body was a mighty value proposition when it was new, packing four-wheel ABS-controlled disc brakes and a choice of 6-speed manual overdrive or 4-speed automatic overdrive transmissions. A unitized body and sheet-molded composite panels made it highly tossable around a road course, and its torque-arm solid-axle rear made it launchable on the drag strip. Your author managed to set an IHRA Pure Stock record in a completely stock 6-speed 1993 Firebird Formula (above) using only a pair of Mickey Thompson ET Streets. See how easy it was for Randy Brown to get his LT1-powered 1994 Pontiac Firebird Formula into the mid-10s here.
Chevy Camaro Z28 (1993 to 2002)
Like the Pontiac Firebird, the fourth-generation Chevy Camaro was built on the same F-body ponycar platform. Also like the Poncho, the Camaro Z28 was offered with the 275hp LT1 from 1993 until 1997, then with the 300hp LS1 beginning in 1998. Besides a slight facelift and the engine change (both coming in 1998) these fourth-gen Camaros all came with computer-designed SLA front suspension, ABS disc brakes all around, a choice of overdrive transmissions, and torque-arm / Panhard solid-axle rearend. The critical thing is to look for the "Z28" badge on the fender, which signified the must-have LT1 (1993 to 1997) or LS1 (1998 to 2002) small-block V8. Starting in 1995, Chevy also offered the SS package in limited quantities, which further provided a functional ram-air hood for a few extra ponies. V8-equipped fourth-gen Camaros and Firebirds remain solid cars, even in high-mileage condition. The LT1 V8 engine does have one peculiarity in that its Optispark ignition distributor is known to fail. Better aftermarket units are available and effectively solve the problem once swapped out. This known issue shouldn't stop you from buying a used Z28 or Firebird Trans Am, and could work in your favor come negotiation time. See what a cylinder head upgrade and a bolt-on Vortech blower did for Brandon Collins' 1995 Camaro Z28 here.
Fox-Body Ford Mustang (1990 to 1993)
Ford's compact Fox-body platform had the luxury of being refined and tweaked over many years. First appearing in 1978 with the third iteration of the Mustang, the Fox-body Mustang survived through the 1993 model year for an unprecedented 16-year production run. For most of its life, the Fox-body Mustang had V8 power in the form of a 302ci Windsor small-block, first with carbureted induction, then with EFI beginning in 1986. By 1987, power on the wildly popular hot rod engine had swelled to 225 hp, thanks to the Windsor's sequential multiport fuel injection. In its day, the Fox-platform Mustang was considerably less expensive than rivals from GM, thanks to its low-cost platform architecture. As a result, the Fox-body was built in incredible numbers and today can be scored for a few thousand dollars. The Fox-body Mustang makes a great '90s car to buy for its EFI 5-liter powerplant, its vast parts interchangeability, and its strong 8.8-inch solid rear axle—a unit that with only minor tweaks can be built to handle 700 hp. See how Jarred Hicks modified his 1990 Mustang GT (above) to knock down 5.90s in the eighth-mile here.
SN95 Mustang (1994 to 1998)
By the time the Fox-body Mustang reached its 16th year, Ford finally decided to refresh the chassis and looks for the 1994 model year. Even though the Mustang's Fox chassis remained largely the same for 1994, there were enough tweaks to warrant a chassis designation change with what Ford called the SN95 architecture. With the SN95 came a sleek new look with a lower hood, which necessitated a shorter intake manifold with a loss of power to 215hp. Ford had prepared for the 1994 loss by derating the 1993 Mustang to 200 hp while in fact no change was made in 1993 other than the way engines were evaluated on the test dyno. This way, Ford could claim a 15hp increase instead of a 10hp loss when the more restrictive intake debuted in 1994.
SN95 Mustang with turbo LS V8 swap.
By 1995, however, the 302ci Windsor was replaced with the new 4.6L two-valve Mod engine, which magically also had a 215hp / 285 lb-ft rating—well off the 5-liter's 225hp / 300 lb-ft rating of two years prior. Despite the power loss, the SN95 Mustang was a serious hit, and its proponents loved the upgraded five-lug spindles which are a popular swap for earlier Fox-body Mustangs. Today, the SN95 Mustang is one of the best '90s cars to buy because they've aged well and there are so many aftermarket parts for them—most recently in the form of LS-swap and drag suspension gear. While the Mod 4.6 remains a cool engine to tinker with, the LS swap makes the SN95 a total monster for what amounts to couch change. See how Terry Sorensen (above) turned to the dark side with a turbocharged LS swap into a 1997 Mustang here.


Mr.Ganapathi is a specialist hip and knee surgeon based in North Wales. He completed his higher specialist training in orthopaedics in Wales and did an arthroplasty fellowship in Cardiff. He subsequently completed an advanced lower limb fellowship in Montreal, Canada and visited centres in Canada and U.S. before starting as a consultant orthopaedic surgeon at Bangor, North Wales in 2008. Although he undertakes general trauma work, his elective practice in both the NHS and the private sector is almost exclusively related to adult hip and knee problems. He offers private surgery at Spire Yale Hospital, Wrexham.
During his higher specialist training and subsequent fellowships, Mr.Ganapathi has gained experience in various aspects of hip and knee related problems including primary and revision hip replacement, hip resurfacing, primary and revision knee replacement, partial knee replacement as well as hip arthroscopy and knee arthroscopy.
A very recent technological development is "patient specific instrumentation" or a "custom fit knee". In this technique, MRI scan of the person's hip, knee and ankle is done few weeks before the operation.
A special computer software creates the three dimensional model of the patient's knee and allows the surgeon to plan the bone cuts and component placement on a personal computer. The model also allows the best sizing option and shape).
Mr.Ganapathi performing PSI knee replacement using custom made patient specific 3 D moulds – shorter surgery and rapid recovery. S4C documentary (edited).
PSI knee replacement video showing how planning is done with the computer software – Mr Ganapathi orthopaedic consultant.
Mr.Ganapathi Uses Innovative Techniques for Optimal Outcome.
Mr.Ganapathi has also been involved in a number of research projects. He has presented and published his research work in a number of national and international meetings and peer reviewed journals. He has won various awards for his research work. He keeps himself updated on recent advances by attending various CME sessions . He is also keen in teaching the next generation of surgeons as well as allied health professionals.


Can someone please find the person that made it acceptable to wear sweatshirts as a fashion statement? I mean truly, this is an invention of the 21st century, as I'm pretty sure earlier in life I used to get yelled at for leaving the house in a sweatshirt if I wasn't leaving to go work out somewhere. Now, we're all about the sweatshirt as a fashion staple. A chic grey sweatshirt is an essential and any decorative versions of said item are like fashion gold. However, the fashion sweatshirt is also an opportunity to wear your heart on your sleeve, or chest, as the case may be. For the die hard Led Zeppelin fans out there, this one's for you!


Malware, or malicious software, can be particularly troublesome for organizations. The types vary from both extremely passive to extremely dangerous, with the most notable of which being ransomware. Ransomware can potentially lock down your organization's network or files located on it using encryption, providing the decryption key only when a ransom is paid. We urge you not to pay the ransom, as it's only furthering the agenda of hackers by you paying up. Instead, we recommend adequate preventative measures that keep ransomware at bay in the first place. Ransomware tends to spread via email and spam, so be sure to warn your users about clicking on links or attachments that are unwarranted and suspicious. Data backup can certainly help, as well.
Malware isn't the only threat to be spread through spam and email. Phishing attacks are often spread in this fashion as well, in which a user accidentally hands over credentials or sensitive information that can be used to access accounts or other data. These phishing attacks can often be elaborate and difficult to detect. Sometimes they can take the identity of your IT department or your business' senior figures. Never hand over credentials for any purpose unless the inquirer can legitimately be identified.
By password hacks, we mean any of the high-profile hacks that have been known to spread like wildfire in the media. You may recall some of the major data breaches that have leaked sensitive information, including passwords, to the public. These passwords often wind up on the black market, where they are bought by hackers. If you ever suspect that your users have had their data stolen during these breaches, it's important that they change their passwords as soon as possible.
Denial of Service attacks are when a server is overloaded with traffic to the point where they are no longer able to function as intended. Distributed denial of service, or DDoS attacks, are often used as weapons to cripple infrastructures and bring services to a halt. Botnets--large groups of infected computers--are used to constantly ping servers with traffic to bring them down.
Man in the Middle attacks can happen when an attacker directly influences or interacts with the communications between two parties. This can happen over an unencrypted wireless network, and it's particularly dangerous because both parties believe they are interacting with each other rather than the hacker in the middle.
Not all downloads that happen on a device are made with the device owner's consent. Sometimes a piece of malware can trigger a download without asking for the user's permission, as well as without the user understanding the consequences of downloading said file. Sometimes all it takes is clicking on the wrong tab, download link, or dialog box. Drive-by downloads are so dangerous that steps are being taken to thwart them when possible.
Don't let your business fall victim to these threats. To find out how your business can protect itself in times of danger, reach out to Automation Concepts & Technologies, Inc. at (508) 622-5100.