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You are here: Home / TV News from STUDIO BRIEFING / WILL ABC’S NEWSCAST TOPPLE NBC’S?
WILL ABC’S NEWSCAST TOPPLE NBC’S?
ABC World News with Diane Sawyer beat NBC Nightly News with Brian Williams on two nights, Monday and Friday, last week but remained in second place for the week with an average of about a half million fewer viewers, TVNewser.com reported on Tuesday, citing latest Nielsen figures. (The ABC newscast did not air on Thursday.) For the week, the NBC newscast averaged 7.5 million viewers, while ABC’s averaged 7.0 million. The CBS Evening News with Scott Pelley placed third with 5.7 million, up 9 percent from a year ago. In primetime, ABC’s Thursday and Sunday coverage of the NBA finals helped lift the network into first place for the week among 18-49-year-old viewers and a close second among total adults. CBS, which drew the most total viewers for the week was dead last — behind even The CW and Univision — among younger viewers. The networks lined up like this: CBS: an average 4.0 household rating and a 7 share (4.5 million viewers); ABC: 3.8/7 (4.4 million); NBC: 3.66 (4.1 million); Fox: 2.1/4 (2.4 million).
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You are here: Home / TV News from STUDIO BRIEFING / BLACKISH IS GOLDENISH IN DEBUT
BLACKISH IS GOLDENISH IN DEBUT
The season premiere of ABC’s controversial new sitcom blackish debuted in first place in its time period among total viewers and the key 18-49 age group, according to overnight ratings by Nielsen Research. The show drew 10.79 million viewers, a tad less than the 10.93 million that ABC’s Modern Family, which preceded it, pulled in. It also left social network posters all atwitter. The overwhelming number of tweets were positive. One commented: "Was nervous about @black_ishABC. Turns out it’s funny and honest without the buffoonery." On the other hand many felt that it, in the words of one viewer, "just reinforces stereotypes and bad concepts of other races." But one viewer, taking a look at the reaction to the show on Twitter, summed it up this way: "Black viewers loved it. White people were offended on behalf of blacks." Still others said that they would take a wait-and-see approach to the series. "Very interested in seeing where #blackish goes. So much to be discussed & portrayed. Feels good to see a primetime show I can identify with," tweeted one viewer.
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No. 39: Tank N Tummy (repeat)
"Tank N Tummy" was originally published in Liberty #14 (Aug. 2010).
Harry was sound asleep with a smile on his face when a long, slender tongue began coming down on his ear. The tongue began licking in and around the ear. The smile on Harry’s face disappeared and a look of disgust washed over it. His eyes shot open and Harry pushed himself out of bed and onto the floor.
“What are you doing?” Harry shouted at the woman who had penetrated his ear with her tongue.
“Using a unique way to wake you up,” the woman smiled. “Do you want to go again?” she grinned.
Harry stared at the woman in the bed, trying to remember her name. He then looked over at the clock. “Emily! Yes, that’s it. That’s your name. I would love to…do all that but I’m late for work,” Harry said, telling the truth but it obviously sounded like a lie. Harry stood up and began searching through the mess that was Emily’s floor. She eyed his genitals seductively and licked her lips. Harry noticed and covered himself. “Stop looking at it!”
“You didn’t seem to mind last night when my whole head was in that vicinity,” Emily smiled.
Harry found his clothes and began putting them on. “I had a nice time. I’ll see you around, Emily.”
“Are you sure you can’t stay?” Emily pleaded. “You’re already late for work. What’s another thirty minutes.”
“No, I have to go. See you,” and Harry left Emily’s bedroom.
Emily rolled over on her back and moved her fingers to her crotch. “What if I lick your asshole?” she shouted after him.
It took Harry about ten minutes to get from the dorms where Emily lived at Engel and Irving Hill Road to the Tank N Tummy convenience store at Sixth and Kasold. The Tank N Tummy was your average convenience store selling your common overpriced wares all because the gasoline doesn’t make a profit. Harry parked his Ford Explorer on the west side of the building next to a beat up Toyota Tercel hatchback. The Toyota belonged to Harry’s best friend, Zeke.
Zachary Hollister, or Zeke, which is what he wanted to be called, had been friends with Harry since Kindergarten. Zeke began elementary school as a shy, slightly overweight, red-haired wimp and after high school was an outgoing, slightly overweight, balding wimp. Harry took care of the shy part.
Harry walked into the Tank N Tummy. Zeke was behind the counter restocking the cigarettes. “Zeke, I’m sorry I’m late. I wasn’t sleeping in my own bed, her actually wanting anal sex threw me off and this morning, there was a tongue in my ear,” Harry attempted to explain.
“It’s okay, Harry. You know people just come in to buy coffee, newspapers and cigarettes in the morning. Why are you late?” Zeke asked.
“I met a girl. Her name is Emily. She let me do awful things to her,” Harry said and smiled.
“Oh, you thinking about seeing her again?” Zeke asked.
“Why did I think otherwise?”
“Are we still on for tonight?” Harry asked as he grabbed an issue of U.S. News & World Report off the shelf and went behind the counter with Zeke.
“I don’t know about Jason or Dustin but I’m ready,” Zeke said. “I printed off a bunch of stuff about the house and cemetery last night and spent most of last night reading about it. The stories people tell about them are amazing and it would be great if the stories were true.”
Harry began reading his magazine. “Why are we doing this again?”
“Why do we need a reason? We’re doing it to find out if the legends are true. Common sense says they are not but there are some strange things in this world. Plus, it’s a part of our history being in this county,” Zeke exclaimed.
“Eloquently said, Zeke. I’m gonna go get me some Cheez-Its,” Harry left the counter and walked over to the aisle with chips and crackers. Cheez-It was Harry’s only vice and he would go long way for the name brand baked cheese goodness.
“We don’t have any,” Zeke said as they reached the shelves the Cheez-It’s used to be.
“Why not?” Harry asked with anger rising in his voice.
“They weren’t selling so the boss had me not order any this time around. We’ll get more next week.”
“Why didn’t anyone tell me?” Harry complained.
“Oh, calm down. There’s still a box of Cheesie Bits down there,” Zeke pointed.
“You know damn well they are not the same thing!”
“Oh, here we go,” Zeke rolled his eyes.
“Cheez-It, produced by the Sunshine Biscuit Company—now a property of the Kellogg Company—have been the premier baked cheese snack cracker since 1921 and while Nabisco’s Kraft Cheese Nips come close and have, admittedly, more cheese flavor, Cheez-It are the go-to cracker for both cheese and salt,” Harry illuminated.
“I know. You’ve told me,” Zeke complained.
“Remember when we ran out of gummi worms and I told you to just eat gummi bears?”
“Well, gummi bears are just plain disgusting,” Zeke made a face.
“Well, so are generic baked cheese crackers,” Harry sighed and went back to his magazine behind the counter.
Someone came into the store and headed over to the coffee station. Zeke sat down on a stool with the local paper and began reading. “Oh my God.”
“What?” Harry asked.
“Miyoki died,” Zeke said and showed Harry the obituary in the paper. The picture accompanying the obit was Miyoki’s senior high school picture, Zeke recognized.
Harry read the obit. “Wow…” he said. “I wonder what she died from.”
“It doesn’t say but she was in San Francisco. I should call her parents,” Zeke said.
“Are they parents that still like you?”
“All my former girlfriend’s parents still like me,” Zeke said.
“You just keep telling yourself that,” Harry shook his head.
“Miyoki was my first,” Zeke said solemnly. “I can still remember how it felt.”
“I don’t need any details.”
“Who was your first time?” Zeke asked Harry.
“Your mom. Why don’t you call Miyoki’s parents now?” Harry said and scooted the magazine over when the customer finished at the coffee station and came up to the counter.
“How come you don’t have any of that flavored coffee that those big chain store have?” the customer said.
“What? You mean like Starbucks?” Harry asked.
“Yeah. I love their coffee,” the customer said.
“I do too. $2.35,” Harry said.
“I drink your coffee because it’s cheap,” the customer chuckled.
“Yeah…” Harry hated talking to the customers.
“You should put out some chocolate syrup and whipped cream for people to put in with their coffee,” the customer suggested.
“Then we’d have to charge a lot more than $2.35 for it,” Harry faked a laugh and smiled big.
The customer laughed too. “Yeah, I guess so.” The customer headed out the door. “Have a good day!” he shouted.
“You, too!” Harry shouted back then angrily went back to his magazine. Zeke returned and sat back down on his stool. “You get a hold of Miyoki’s parents?”
“Yeah,” Zeke answered.
“How’d she die?”
“She was in San Francisco—she moved there for school—and she was riding the Golden Gate Transit, a public transportation bus, and she saw someone she knew and wanted to get their attention so she opened the window and stuck her body halfway out. The bus makes a sharp turn and she hits a light post, cracking her skull and snapping her back,” Zeke said.
“Ew. That’s graphic,” Harry said. Harry thought for a second and began chuckling. “’Stuck her body halfway out’? I can actually see her hanging out of the bus window, flailing her arms and screaming. It’s kind of funny.”
“A girl died Harry. A girl we both knew and went to school with,” Zeke said. “It’s not funny, it’s tragic.”
“Oh, quit being overly sensitive. You acted the same way when that football player died in our senior year.”
“It’s sad when people that young die!” Zeke exclaimed.
“It’s sad when they have a disease. It’s sad when they are in a car accident. The football guy was drunk. His blood alcohol level was 0.22 which is almost three times over the legal limit. He’s lucky he didn’t hurt or kill another person,” Harry pointed out. “I’m sick of him being made out to be a martyr.”
“Jeez, calm down. You’d feel differently if it were you.”
“I already told my mom not to make me out to be a hero if my death is my fault,” Harry went back to his magazine.
“That’s a nice mother-son conversation,” Zeke said.
It was the spring of 1858 when George Miller began work on his house north of Big Springs on a hill just south of the cemetery. George was a stonemason and currently lived in Lecompton where he had helped with the construction of the territorial capital building, a church and a couple of houses. After living in cities and towns for the last thirteen years, George had finally decided to build his own house and start a farm.
George had been married to Margaret Lowery since 1843 and until their daughter, Adela, had been born in 1846, George and Margaret had practically been nomadic. With the birth of Adela, George and his family settled in Aurora, Illinois until early 1855 when they moved to Lecompton, Kansas shortly after the territory had been opened for settlement.
Lecompton was a tinderbox always on the verge of going off. Lecompton was presently the territorial capital however free state opposition from nearby Topeka and Lawrence aimed to quench that as soon as possible. George had chosen Lecompton instead of Lawrence because Lecompton had more jobs and seemed safer. George picked right because George and Margaret could just hide their opinions and lie if the topic ever came to slavery but if they had chosen Lawrence, their house would’ve been burned to the ground barely a year after arriving by the sheriff and his posse.
Lecompton was good to George. He got a lot of money for starting work on what was to become the territorial capital building plus money for building a church, doing add-ons to existing homes, constructing new ones and doing stonework on Mount Aeolia, where the territorial governor’s mansion was located. All this work gave him free range of the two quarries in the area, the big one being on the south side of the Kansas River just outside of Lecompton. The other was located just southwest of Big Springs.
Big Springs, while much smaller than Lecompton, was the complete opposite in politics. Big Springs was the oldest settlement in the county and hosted a free state convention where men vowed to lay down their lives for the free state cause. Before then, Big Springs had just been a stop along the Oregon Trail. George couldn’t wait to bring his family home to their new house.
Harry cowered under the desk in the small office while Zeke stood by the desk, bent over so he could see Harry. “You’re gonna have to come out some time,” he said with a note of disappointment in his voice.
“I will, when she’s not out there,” Harry said.
“Come on man. She came here between classes to see you,” Zeke said. “She brought you lasagna.”
“Food? That’s how they get you. They make you a nice meal and they’ve got you in their trap!” Harry hissed.
“What trap? The girl you slept with last night is here offering you food. Now go out there, say hello then share some of your lasagna with me,” Zeke dragged Harry out from under the desk and they walked together to the front of the store.
Emily was standing by the counter holding an aluminum pan covered by foil. When she saw Harry she smiled big and her eyes sparkled in the store’s fluorescent lights. “Long time, no see stranger,” she giggled. “I brought you some lunch.”
“That was nice of you,” Harry said but didn’t reach for the pan.
“Hey, I was wondering about last night,” Emily started. “I had a really good time and was just wondering what our relationship is.”
Harry looked back at Zeke who threw his hands up with wide eyes and backed away. “Well, I…Look, there’s something you have to know about me. I don’t date. What happened between us last night was just sex and nothing more,” Harry began.
“What? You used me?” Emily frowned.
“I don’t call it that. I’m sorry if you thought it was something more but I didn’t mean to hurt you. I just figured you knew my history and didn’t care. I have had sex with a lot of girls so I just figured my reputation preceded me,” Harry smiled nervously as Emily got madder.
“You jerk!” she screamed and shoved the lasagna into Harry’s face. He screamed and fell to his knees. “I can’t believe I let you into my backdoor!” Emily shouted and stormed out of the store.
Zeke came over with a wet floor sign, chuckling. “That was so tactful. Especially when you told her that you ‘have had sex with a lot of girls’. Priceless.” Zeke helped Harry up and ate what drops of lasagna fell on his hands. “That’s really good lasagna.”
“It’s still a bit warm,” Harry said, his voice straining through the searing heat “but it is good. I’m gonna go clean up. I’ll be back soon.”
Harry walked off toward the restroom and Zeke went back behind the counter. Zeke began spraying down the counter and cleaning it up when an Asian man came into the store.
“Hello there,” the man said.
“Hello,” Zeke smiled.
“I’m looking for Hungry-Man dinner because I’m hungry man!” the man laughed at his joke. Zeke looked at him uneasily.
“I’m sorry, sir but we don’t have Hungry-Man dinners here,” Zeke said.
“I want the turkey dinner!”
“Sir? We don’t sell Hungry-Man meals here,” Zeke repeated. “We have a wide variety of microwavable burritos though.”
“I want Hungry-Man dinner cuz I’m hungry man,” Zeke wasn’t sure if the man just wasn’t listening or was stupid. He also figured it was the language barrier.
“We don’t sell Hungry-Man dinners here. There is a grocery store three blocks that way,” Zeke pointed. “Go there.”
“I don’t go there, I come here. I here!” the man shouted. “I am hungry man.”
Zeke sighed exasperatingly. “We. Do. Not. Have. Hungry-Man dinners!”
“You get some for me. I wait here,” the man said.
“What? We can order some but it may take two weeks for delivery…”
The man interrupted Zeke. “Two weeks? I’m on lunch now!”
Zeke angrily slapped his hand over his eyes. He muttered something under his breath and noticed Harry was back up front. “What seems to be the problem?” Harry asked.
“I want Hungry-Man dinner because I’m hungry man!” the man said. Zeke visualized snapping the man’s neck.
“And I’ve told him—repeatedly—that we don’t have Hungry-Man dinners,” Zeke’s eye twitched.
“Oh, I’m sorry, sir. We don’t have that item here but the grocery store down the street should have your Hungry-Man dinners,” Harry said and smiled.
“Thank you very much,” the man said. The man then looked Zeke in the eye. “Why didn’t you just say so?”
The man left the store. Zeke angrily looked at Harry. “I hate you.”
“You know I’m your hero.”
In February of 1860, the Miller family was able to move into their new house. The house was a beautiful, yet angular limestone house. The house faced north toward the cemetery and church and was two stories with a small dirt cellar and a small attic. The house was a lot larger than what they needed but George was hoping that they would be blessed with more children.
Adela loved playing around her family’s large farm. She loved running through the cemetery and reading all the names and inscriptions on the stones. She also loved watching all the people go to and from the church that overlooked the cemetery.
The church was simple in design and located a top a hill that overlooked the cemetery and the main road at the bottom of the hill. The Millers had never been to church. When George and Margaret were kids, they were dragged by their parents to worship but that ended when George moved to Canada and when Margaret married George. They had their reasons for not going to church, mainly that they can raise their daughter just fine without church intervention. Adela sometimes wondered what went on behind the doors of the church and wondered if different people worshiped different things.
“Hey, Pa?” Adela went up to her dad while he was tending to the horses. “What goes on at church?”
George stopped and turned to his daughter. Her pretty brown hair reflected the Sunday’s sun and a few strands of her hair framed her face lovingly. “Church is where people go to worship God. They sing to Him, pray to Him and talk about Him,” George explained.
“Does everyone worship God?” Adela asked.
George smiled. “Actually no. Some people worship a different God. A couple religions even worship more than one.”
“Why don’t we go to church?” she asked.
“We worship in our own way. We believe that you can honor and respect God without going into a church,” George said. He continued to look at Adela who slowly absorbed what he said. “You understand?”
Adela was an incredibly smart fourteen-year-old although she could be a bit naive at times. Adela looked at her father and nodded. “I think so. But I want to see what they do there.”
“They do just what I said,” George said. “And I, or your mother, don’t believe that you need to sing and pray in order to get into Heaven.”
Adela, again, thought about that then bounded off back to the house. She went upstairs to a windowed room above the porch where Margaret was sitting in a rocking chair, cross-stitching. “Mama? Why won’t Pa let me go to church?”
Margaret seemed startled at the question and set her cross-stitching down in a basket by the chair. “Well, Adela, it’s just something your father and I have decided not to expose to you.”
“Why not? Pa told me what they do there and I kind of want to go. At least once,” Adela said.
“You don’t need church to worship God, Adela.”
“But it couldn’t hurt, could it Mama?”
After Adela went to bed, George and Margaret talked about Adela going to church. “I thought we determined that going to church was not something our family needs to do,” George said.
“Yes but now that Adela’s older maybe it’s something we should consider for Adela. She can go once and make her own decision. There’s a nice church right across the cemetery. We can go with her and…” Margaret said but George interrupted her.
“I don’t want my daughter exposed to all that…false worship that goes on in a church. We can honor and worship God just fine in our own house. You don’t need a church for that,” George explained.
“It would be a one time thing, George. You don’t have to go but I will. And afterward, the three of us can sit together and talk about it,” Margaret tried to reason but George didn’t like the idea.
“Adela is a smart girl,” George sighed. “You’ve seen the way some of these church-goers react. Just what we saw in Lecompton was enough for me. I don’t want Adela getting mixed up with those people or getting crazy ideas in her head.
“We’re not in Lecompton anymore and we know most of the people in Big Springs. They don’t look down on us like Lecompton did. They like us for who we are, not how we act!” Margaret’s voice raised a little and she took a step closer to George.
“Margaret, I love you and I respect you but I am still the man in this house. I don’t want Adela going to church and that is it,” said George.
Adela was laying on her side with her eyes open, listening to her parents argue. She had heard them argue many times before and she knew that with her father’s “man of the house” line, the argument was over.
Zeke and Ashley stood out at the gas pumps and kissed. Several times. Repeatedly. Harry was inside checking out customers. Harry looked at a man who was buying a couple of biking magazines and a Starbucks Double Shot and motioned out the window with his thumb. “Isn’t that disgusting?” Harry asked.
The man followed Harry’s thumb out the window to the gas pumps. He looked a moment at Zeke and Ashley. “No. At least their mouths are closed. I hate when people French kiss in public and their tongues are all sloppy and worm-like.”
“Amen,” Harry said, laughing.
“I think it’s kind of sweet,” said a girl who was next in line. She placed her drink and candy bar on the counter. “My boyfriend would never do something like that in public,” she pointed. “But then again, my boyfriend doesn’t do a lot of stuff.”
Harry smiled. “Really? Well, you should look me up if you ever get…bored with him. I’m here everyday,” Harry and the girl exchanged monies as she smiled and blushed at him.
“I may do that,” she said.
The next person in line put his stuff on the counter. “How come whenever I’m in here you are hitting on girls or talking about hitting on girls?” the man asked.
“I don’t know. Why? Jealous?” Harry asked. “$5.29.”
The man handed Harry a bank card. “I’m just wonderin’,” the man said.
“I guess the simplest answer would be that I love fucking girls and I know how their minds work. It’s all really very fascinating,” said Harry.
“You jerk,” said a plump woman, next in line. “How can you degrade women like that? Your mother was a woman.”
“Mmm,” Harry nodded. “First of all, how do you know my mother wasn’t a crack-addicted whore who tried to shove a clothes hanger into the womb?” Harry eyed the plump woman.
The woman was stunned and said nothing.
“Second, I do not degrade women. I treat all of them with respect and none of them—none of them hate me.” Harry thought a second and recalled the scene earlier in the day involving a pan of lasagna. “None of them,” he reiterated.
The plump woman was still upset and stormed out of the store with her purchases. Zeke came in with Ashley and Harry helped the last person in line.
“Thank you and come again,” Harry said to the customer then turned to Zeke and Ashley. “Hey, Ash.”
“Hi, Harry. How’s work?” she asked. Ashley Tornedan had been Zeke’s girlfriend since toward the end of their senior year in high school. Ashley had no intention of leaving Zeke and would never even think of it but it was something he worried about all the time. Ashley was in school to be a doctor and was about to enter her final year. Ashley fit in well with Zeke and Harry’s group and was so far the only girl in the group Harry hadn’t slept with.
“It’s going great,” Harry said. “Just the $30.36 in gas?” Harry asked.
“Yeah,” she replied. “Will you be by tonight?” she asked Zeke.
Zeke looked at Harry who shrugged. “I don’t know. Probably not. We may be out pretty late so I’ll just see you tomorrow.”
“Ok, that’s cool,” she handed Harry two twenties. “We’ll have dinner tomorrow when you get off work.”
“Can I come?” Harry asked, handing Ashley her change.
“Only if you’ll let Zeke take you up the ass while you titty-fuck me,” Ashley said.
“You have no idea how okay I am with that,” he smiled.
Ashley laughed, “I’ll see you tomorrow,” she and Zeke kissed. “Love you.”
“Love you too,” Zeke said. After she had left Zeke turned to Harry. “She loves me.”
“I heard,” Harry rolled his eyes. “Hey, did you bring any of that information you got off of the Internet about the caretaker’s house?”
“Yeah. It’s in that folder in my bag. It’s in the office,” Zeke pointed.
“Could you go get it? I want to read about this thing before we get out there,” Harry said.
“Yeah, I’ll go get it.”
Harry went back to reading his magazine while Zeke went to the office. Soon after Zeke’s departure, Dustin Norris and Geoff Dorvac came into the store.
“Sup, slut?” Geoff asked.
“Hi, Harry,” Dustin waved.
“Hey,” Harry said, not looking up from his magazine.
“Where’s Zeke?” Geoff asked, trying to find Zeke by making himself taller.
“In the office,” Harry said. “He’ll be right back. He’s getting his folder with the information of where we are going.”
“I can’t wait to get there,” Geoff said. “I’m gonna show those ghosts that you don’t mess with me,” Geoff suddenly started making faux karate moves and sounds which soon became motions and sounds similar to a lightsaber.
“What’s he doing?” Zeke asked, dropping the folder in front of Harry.
“I don’t know. Some Kung-Fu Jedi thing,” Harry said and slid the folder on top of his magazine. He opened it up and began reading it while Zeke, Dustin and Geoff talked.
Winter had ended not too long ago and it was now April of 1861. What was once the Kansas Territory became the State of Kansas on January 29th. It entered the Union as a free state with Topeka as it’s capitol. That was a mighty blow to Lecompton and the town lost more than half of it’s population. Even the satellite towns of Douglas, Marshall and Rising Sun were hit and all of them ceased to exist. Even Big Springs was affected as people began moving to Lawrence or Topeka. The Millers watched several neighbors move but they stayed.
It was still early in the month and no one knew that a civil war was about to break out. The seeds of war had been planted years ago but it had taken nearly a decade for them to sprout.
George stayed out of all the political talk going around but he was scared for his family. They had honestly lived through so much and it almost seemed as if things were just going to get worse. Margaret and Adela continued living their lives normally and George didn’t interfere with that.
Adela stayed up past her bedtime. She laid in bed and listened as her parents finished up around the house, go to bed and make love. Her dad fell asleep and began snoring but her mom got back out of bed and walked past Adela’s bedroom and went downstairs. Adela estimated that it was twenty minutes until Margaret came back and went to bed. By the time Margaret fell asleep and Adela waited to make sure her parents were asleep, she figured it was around midnight.
Adela quietly got out of bed and put some clothes on. She tiptoed out of her room and softly closed the door. She moved to the back stairs that led to the kitchen and silently descended them. She exited the back door and ran through the yard to the horse stables. She pulled out a beautiful white horse and mounted it. She rode the horse down to the main road then to the California Road that went through Big Springs. She then continued west to Topeka.
About a month ago, a group of travelers passed through Big Springs. While stopping, Adela met and began to talk to one of them about their travels. “Where are you originally from?” she asked him. “I’m originally from Lecompton but my parents are from Illinois.”
The young man smiled. “I’m from Indiana. Me and my team are headed for California. We have a job opportunity in Topeka to make some money then we’re going straight to California.”
“So you’ll be in Topeka for awhile?” Adela asked.
“A while.”
“I’m Adela Miller. What’s your name?” she asked, giggling nervously.
“Efrem Schnebly,” the young man replied. Efrem was annoyed and kind of nervous. He knew Adela was at least ten years younger than him and he knew that she was flirting with him but he was uneasy about it.
“Where are you going to live in Topeka?” Adela asked.
“There’s a boarding tenement at 8th and Adams where I’ll be staying. I’ll be living with another 250 guys but at least I’ll save money,” Efrem shrugged.
“Maybe I can come visit you,” Adela suggested. “I’ve been to Topeka plenty of times with my dad so I know my way around…”
“Look, Adele,” Efrem began.
“Adela,” she corrected.
“Adela,” Efrem continued, “I think you are a little young for me. You’re a sweet girl but why don’t you wait a couple years, huh?”
Inside, Efrem’s comment hurt Adela. She stood up, trying to hold back her tears. “Okay,” she sniffled. “I’ll see you around…Efrem,” and Adela turned and ran back to her house. She sobbed into her pillow only a little while until she came up with a plan.
She had promised herself that she would go to Topeka and surprise Efrem. She would go to his boarding house, knock on his door and offer herself to him. She planned it all out and, in her head, it was perfect.
The boarding house was a massive five-story brick building. The whole building had thirty rooms on each floor and the whole building held 450 people. Adela nervously tied her horse to a post near the building and walked into the building. It was loud inside the building as both drunk and sober men wandered through the rooms and hallways. Most of them hooted and whistled as she walked down the hall and a few of them grabbed their crotches. She found one man who was standing in a doorway and looked relatively safe.
“Excuse me,” she began in a soft voice. “Where is Efrem Schnebly’s room?” she asked.
He exhaled smoke from his cigarette and looked curiously at her. “Schnebly? Second floor, room six,” the man said. “Who are you?” he asked gruffly.
Adela looked up at the man. “Sister,” choosing a title that may protect her. “I’m his sister.”
She went up to the second floor and didn’t see Efrem in the hallway so she began to go down the hall, looking at the doors for the room numbers. She found room six and knocked. Knocked as loud as she could. It took a while but Efrem answered the door and sleepily looked at Adela.
“What the hell…?” he asked, angrily.
“I came to see you,” Adela smiled. “How can you sleep with all this noise?”
“It was pretty easy until now. What are you doing here?” Efrem asked.
“I came to see you. I thought that we could stay up and talk and…”
Efrem quickly interrupted her. “And? And what? I have work early in the morning. I can’t spend my nights talking to children. Now go back home before ma and pa discover you are gone!” Efrem shouted and slammed the door.
Adela stood in the hallway and stared at the closed door. She tried hard not to cry but a few tears left her eyes. She lowered her head and walked back the way she came. When she got to the end of the hallway at the stairs, three men approached her from one of the rooms.
“You can stay up and talk to us,” one said.
The others chuckled.
Adela was scared. “I should be getting home. It’s past my bedtime,” she said.
“You can sleep here,” another said.
Suddenly, two of the men reached out and grabbed Adela’s arms and began dragging her into the room. Adela screamed and struggled. “No! Help! Efrem! Efrem, come help me! Efrem!” she screamed but was soon in the room, on a bed on her back. The men stood over her and held her down.
The three men threw Adela back onto the street about an hour and a half later. Her blouse and skirt were askew and she tried to pick herself up but fell immediately to her knees and vomited. She heaved for several more minutes then vomited again.
Finally, she got up and staggered over to her horse and carefully climbed on. She rode back to her house slower than when she left and when she got back home, she could see the sun rising in the east. Her parents would be up soon.
She slipped back in the way she left and into her room where she slid under the covers and fell asleep.
And she slept until noon.
Ben Michelson walked into the store where Zeke and Harry were behind the counter and Geoff and Dustin were thumbing through the magazines. Ben went behind the counter and pointed over to Geoff and Dustin. “You know they aren’t supposed to do that, right?” he asked.
Zeke gave a customer their change. “We know but it’s just easier this way.”
“What do you mean?” Ben asked as he put on his nametag.
“Well, if we don’t allow Geoff to read the magazines he harasses the customers and us,” Harry explained.
“Mainly us,” Zeke said. “How are you doing, Ben?”
“Doing great,” Ben said as he took Harry’s place at the register and began to log into the system. “Anything planned for tonight?”
“We’re going to the caretaker’s house in Big Springs Cemetery,” Zeke said. “Have you ever been?”
“I’ve driven by it and have been up to the cemetery but I’ve never walked around or went inside the house,” Ben began. “I do have an interesting story about the house.”
“Ooh! Please, do tell,” Harry chimed.
“We’re trying to get as much information as we can before we get up there.”
Ben activated a couple of gas pumps then turned back to Zeke and Harry. “A couple of my friend of mine went up there one night just to walk around and they stumbled upon this pond. There was a full moon and they could see the pond and everything around the pond so they stopped just to look around and one of them felt something—or someone—tap them on the shoulder. The friend who was tapped, knowing it couldn’t of been the other person and knowing that they were alone, scrambled off and made a mad dash back to the car.”
“As would I,” Zeke chuckled.
“A pond?” Harry asked. “A pond is featured in all of the stories I’ve heard about the house. After the daughter gives birth, the mother goes crazy and drowns the baby in a pond.”
“So that means that part of the story could be true,” Zeke pointed out to Harry.
“Or that whoever came up with that part of the story also stumbled across the pond,” said Harry. “Come on, let’s go. I’m hungry. See you, Ben.”
Harry, Zeke, Dustin and Geoff left the store and got into Harry’s SUV. “What are we going to do to kill time? I mean, we sure as hell can’t go to the cemetery in the early evening hours,” Dustin asked.
“I don’t know but we’ll figure out something. Where does everyone want to eat?” Harry asked.
The four of them ended up at the local Perkins restaurant where everyone but Dustin ordered something off the breakfast menu. Everyone was about halfway done when Dustin asked a question. “How did you get into ghost hunting?” He directed the question toward Harry but Zeke answered.
“I’m the one that got started in it first.”
“He just dragged me along,” Harry chuckled.
“My first expedition, as I call it, was to the Black Jack Battlefield east of Baldwin. I heard that ghosts of the Civil War fighters who died there could be seen roaming around.”
“There were a couple problems with that though,” Harry interrupted. “First, the battle took place in 1856, four years before the Civil War began and no one died in the battle.”
“My next expedition did a little better,” Zeke pointed out. “I went to the old Baldwin Cemetery because it used to have a lynching tree and the victims wandered around the cemetery. That’s why they stopped using it.”
“Again, a couple of problems: I could only find one local historian who could remember a story of a lynching but she was pretty certain it happened in Franklin County to the south. Also, the city stopped using the Pioneer Cemetery because of drainage issues,” Harry corrected again.
“What was your first ghost hunting expedition, Harry?” asked Dustin.
“Black Jack. Where I immediately began poking holes in Zeke’s theories.”
“Yeah. You’re good at that,” Zeke said as he chewed.
Suddenly, an older woman, obviously homeless, approached the four of them. She had graying hair and a slight skin disorder on her face. “Will one of you boys buy me a Tremendous Twelve?” she asked.
Geoff finished his food and looked at the woman. “You willing to barter?” he asked. She nodded and Geoff smiled. “Sneak into the men’s restroom and go into the first stall. I’ll be there in a couple of minutes.”
The woman headed toward the restrooms, made sure no one was looking and went to the men’s. “What are you going to do?” Dustin asked.
Geoff tossed some cash onto the table. “This will take care of my dinner. I’ll see you all outside when I’m finished.”
The three watched Geoff get up and go into the restroom. “He’s not going to kill that vagrant is he?” Dustin asked.
“Well, killing her would probably be less painful,” Harry said.
In the restroom, Geoff and the woman were in the stall. “What do I have to do?” she asked, sounding eager.
“Something simple,” Geoff stood on the lid of the toilet and undid his pants, lowering them. He pulled up his shirt and pointed his penis at her. “Suck my cock.” The woman obliged and began sliding her mouth up and down Geoff’s shaft. He began moaning quietly as the woman picked up the pace. “Fondle my nuts,” he said and she complied, tickling and rubbing his testicles in her hand.
Back at the table, everyone had just finished paying and was getting up to leave. “While I believe Geoff demanding sex in return of a favor, I can’t believe he’d do it was a homeless person,” Dustin said.
“I do consider Geoff unbelievable at times,” Harry sighed.
They left the restaurant and waited by Harry’s SUV. In the restroom, Geoff was forcing himself to hold back his moaning as the woman sucked his cock’s head, pumped his penis with her right hand and fondled his balls with her left. Finally, Geoff’s orgasm mounted and he came inside her mouth. She waited for him to stop thrusting before she opened her mouth.
Geoff pulled his pants back up and stepped off of the toilet. “Oh, that was amazing. Okay, now wait a couple minutes after I leave before you come out and you can join us at our table.”
“Okay,” she agreed.
Geoff left the restroom and dashed out to Harry’s car. “Let’s go,” Geoff said, getting in.
“You sick son of a bitch,” Zeke shook his head in disappointment.
“Don’t hate me because I just had sex,” he said.
“I don’t,” began Harry. “But I do hate you for other reasons.”
Margaret and Adela sat in Dr. Graham’s office. Dr. I.F. Graham was Big Springs’ only doctor and everyone in town loved him because he made their little town seem important and he was the best doctor anyone had ever known. Dr. Graham was a burly man with a bushy brown and grey beard. For this visit, there wasn’t much for him to do as Margaret had already figured it out. Dr. Graham was just called to confirm it.
“Well, Mrs. Miller, I believe you are right,” Adela sat topless on a table as Dr. Graham spoke and lightly felt around her stomach. “Adela here is with child.”
“I thought so,” Margaret huffed. “Do you know how far along she is?”
“I could take a shot in the dark but I think Miss Adela would be better for telling us that,” Dr. Graham smiled at the nervous girl.
“Well, Adela?” Margaret asked in a demanding voice.
“It was about six weeks ago. I snuck out one night and went to Topeka to meet someone,” Adela began crying. “I wanted to…but he didn’t. As I left, these three men attacked me. I…” Adela broke out into sobs. Dr. Graham handed back her shirt and softly wiped a tear off her cheek with his thumb.
“This is your punishment for sneaking out,” Margaret said quietly.
“Mrs. Miller, I think that is a bit harsh. Your daughter needs parental support now. She has enough to worry about without wondering if she’s being punished for something,” Dr. Graham said.
Margaret’s eyes widened and she stared off into space. “Punished?” she let the words sink in and went pale which Dr. Graham noticed.
“Mrs. Miller? Are you all right?” he asked.
“Yes, Doctor. We had better get going. George is probably waiting for us and we need to discuss what we’re going to do,” Margaret took Adela’s hand and dragged her out of the office and into the street. George was leaning against a hitching post and smoking his pipe when Margaret and Adela appeared.
“So what did Dr. Graham say?” he asked them.
“Adela is with child,” Margaret whispered.
George smiled big and hugged his daughter. “I’m going to be a grandfather? I can’t believe it,” George was obviously more excited than Margaret.
“George, let’s go home. I don’t want to talk about this in the middle of town,” Margaret said.
When the Millers arrived home, Margaret slammed the door and stared at Adela. “Get up to your room. Your father and I need to talk about this!” she yelled.
“If you’re going to talk about me then I should stay,” Adela stood her ground.
“I agree,” George said.
“Adela, for once in your life listen to your parents and go to your room,” Margaret said with a sigh.
“I resent that,” Adela said.
Margaret, Adela always listens to us,” George defended.
“Then how did she get pregnant? She disobeyed us,” Margaret pointed out.
“I never heard any rule saying I couldn’t sneak out after dark and it wasn’t like I got pregnant on purpose. Three guys attacked me. They attacked me, mother, and forced me to…” she cut herself off.
“We really shouldn’t get angry at Adela. We never did say she couldn’t sneak out and go to Topeka, although that should be implied,” George stared hard at Adela as he said that. She blushed and looked away from her father. “But what is done, is done and we should be celebrating this miraculous event.”
“Don’t you understand, George?” Margaret said furiously. “We are being punished!”
George chuckled but saw the serious, angry and scared look in his wife’s eyes. “Punished for what?”
“For not going to church,” Margaret said. “We live right across from a church and we haven’t been to church in years and it wasn’t that long ago that we forbade Adela from going.”
“That’s crazy, Margaret,” said George. “Our country is being torn apart by war so I think a small farm family in Kansas is far from God’s mind right now.”
“But He is supposed to be all-knowing and all-powerful,” Margaret noted.
“I’m still not believing it,” George shook his head. “I have some work to finish. Adela? Why don’t you lie down?”
“Okay, Pa,” Adela obliged as her father walked out of the house. Margaret readjusted her dress and shawl and opened the front door. “Where are you going, Ma?”
Margaret looked back at her daughter and honestly didn’t recognize her anymore. “I’m going over to the church. To pray for us.”
Harry pulled up next to a gas pump at the Kwik Shop at Sixth and Wakarusa. Harry got out and began pumping gas. He stood casually next to his SUV. Another SUV pulled up behind him and softly nudged him before coming to a stop.
Harry was stunned and walked over to the African-American man that got out. “Excuse me. You hit me with your car,” he said.
“Then get out of the way,” the man said back, not looking at Harry and focusing his attention on the gas pump and his Blackberry.
“You should at least apologize. Considering you hit me with a car!”
The man shoved Harry hard in the shoulder. “Make me! Now why don’t you just continue pumping your gas?” the man turned and headed for the store.
When the man was almost to the door, Harry stopped his gas pump and finished everything up. Then Harry took the man’s gas pump and placed it in the car through the window and locked down the handle so the gas spilled all over the seat and floor. “Do not leave your pump unattended, asshole,” Harry said and quickly got in his car and sped away.
“What the hell is going on?” Zeke exclaimed as Harry exited the parking lot onto Sixth Street heading east.
“That Eddingham prick hit me with his car,” Harry said angrily.
“Eddingham prick?” Dustin looked behind him.
“So I took his gas pump and placed it in his car while running,” Harry admitted.
Geoff busted out laughing and even Dustin chuckled but Zeke was not amused. “That’s really dangerous! The whole place could’ve blown up,” Zeke said.
“He hit me with a Cadillac Escalade and didn’t apologize. He’s an Eddingham prick and deserves to be treated as one,” Harry said.
“What’s an Eddingham prick?” Dustin asked.
“I haven’t told you about Eddingham pricks?” Harry asked, looking at Dustin in the rearview mirror.
“No. I’ve heard about Missouri jackasses, JoCo mofos and Topeka gangsters but never Eddingham pricks,” Dustin said.
“You’re a real people person aren’t you, Harry?” Zeke said sarcastically.
“Eddingham Place is an apartment complex across from where I live and they are ruthlessly unsavory people there. Eddingham has one of the cheapest rents in town but they have a huge turnover rate because while their tenants can’t afford rent, they can, like that asshole back there, afford to go out every weekend and make payments on a brand new Cadillac Escalade,” Harry said.
“I think that’s the most racist thing I’ve ever heard you say,” Zeke said.
“Is it racist even though it’s true?” Harry asked.
“Yes!” Zeke nodded.
Harry scoffed and turned down Monterey Way. “Whatever.”
The four left the McDonald’s and got back into Harry’s SUV. When they left the city limits and were heading west on Highway 40, Zeke began to dig through his backpack. “Here,” he handed a CD to Harry. “It’s a mix CD I made specifically for ghost hunting.”
“Loser,” Geoff coughed.
Harry took the CD and put it into his stereo. Everything was silent for a few seconds until a cartoony instrumental theme began and a woman started singing:
Felix the Cat, the wonderful, wonderful cat
Whenever he gets in a fix
He reaches into his bag of tricks.
You’ll laugh so much, your sides will ache
Your heart will go pitter-pat
Watching Felix the wonderful cat.
The music continued and everyone looked at Zeke who was swaying in his seat to the music and had a goofy look on his face. Harry ejected the CD and hit Zeke with it. “What is wrong with you?” Harry asked.
“What are you doing? There were other songs on there we could listen to,” Zeke said.
“Like ‘Casper the Friendly Ghost’?” Harry asked sarcastically.
“No but I should’ve put that one there. It would have been hilarious!” Zeke laughed.
“So what’s the story behind this house we’re going to?” Dustin asked, leaning forward in his seat.
“The house is next to the Big Springs Cemetery and was owned by the caretaker. The caretaker and his family were Satan worshippers although they were able to keep that part of their lives secret,” Harry began as they continued down Highway 40. “Their daughter snuck out one night and rode to Topeka on a white horse. While in Topeka, she was beaten and raped. She went back home where she found out she was pregnant. Her mother felt like this was a punishment from God for worshipping Satan so she began repenting and when the baby was born, she took it and ran off, drowning the baby in a pond.”
“That’s terrible,” Dustin whispered.
“It gets worse,” Zeke said.
“The daughter was so devastated that she killed herself. And her dad followed suit a couple years later,” Harry finished.
“You’re right. It did get worse,” Dustin said.
“Wait a minute,” Geoff shouted. “Do we have any proof of these alleged deaths?”
“Yes. There is a gravestone near the house of a baby. The father and daughter are probably buried in the cemetery and the mother was supposedly sent to Osawatomie where she is probably buried there,” Harry explained.
“What’s in Osawatomie?” Geoff asked.
“The insane asylum,” Zeke informed.
“You don’t call it an insane asylum anymore. It’s a state hospital,” Harry corrected.
“You live across from Eddingham Place. What if that guy recognizes your car?” Dustin suddenly pointed out.
“I doubt that will happen. The guy barely looked up from his Blackberry, let alone at me or my car,” Harry said. “A guy who I think doesn’t have a job has a brand new Escalade, a Blackberry and an expensive cell phone plan. If that doesn’t prove there’s something wrong with this country, nothing will.”
The dynamic of the Miller changed drastically over the course of Adela’s pregnancy. George not only handled his farming duties and masonry work but also a good percentage of household chores. Adela tended to simple tasks such as sweeping but Margaret only cooked meals. The rest of her days were filled with Bible readings and going to church.
Shortly after Adela’s condition became known, Margaret did her work but hardly said a word and offered no input or anything that went on in the house. Every Sunday she would go to both the morning and evening services at the church and would stay after to talk with the preacher. Margaret got herself a Bible and read it—front to back—several times. In Adela’s seventh month, Adela awoke with a sharp pain just below her stomach. The pain was enough to bring her to tears and scream for her parents.
George rushed in to help his daughter while Margaret stayed in bed, listening to her daughter scream and cry while her husband tried to soothe her. Finally, George boiled some water and poured it into the bathtub. When the tub was halfway filled, he stripped off Adela’s bedclothes and carried her into the bathroom and gently placed her in the warm water. After awhile, the pain subsided. George went back to his bedroom, crossed his arms and glared at his wife.
“What the hell is your problem?” he demanded.
“Don’t take that tone with me,” Margaret said as she closed her Bible.
“Your daughter needed you. She was screaming in pain and I didn’t know what to do. She needed the help of a woman—of her mother!” George complained.
“You seemed to do just fine,” Margaret said with no emotion in her voice.
“You heard how long it took. Something could very well be wrong with Adela. Or the baby,” George said. Margaret just stared at George. George got noticeably angry and stormed over to his wife. “That’s it! I will be damned if I lose my daughter or grandchild to this…book!” George tore the Bible from Margaret’s hand and threw it into the corner.
“Daddy!” Adela cried from the bathroom.
George took one last lingering, angry look at Margaret. “Coming, sweetie,” and he left the room.
Margaret scrambled out of bed to retrieve her Bible. She cradled it in her hands and looked up. “We already are damned,” Margaret whispered. “We’re already damned.”
After that, Margaret became more of a recluse to her family. Her sewing and mending stopped getting done and the cleaning got delegated to Adela, who barely got out of bed during her late eighth month. George then took over the more arduous tasks. Margaret’s days were filled with Bible readings, prayer and cooking breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Margaret had one of the bedrooms converted into a makeshift church which she would lock herself in for hours at a time. She quit sleeping with George and began sleeping on a cot in her prayer room and she kept candles lit all the time, day or night.
Meanwhile, George and Adela bonded and got closer while waiting for the baby to come. When in the early stages of her ninth month, Adela went down into the basement where George was putting the finishing touches on a homemade crib.
“Hey, Pa,” Adela strained as she descended the stairs. “How’s the crib coming?”
“Adela, you shouldn’t be down here. You need to be in bed,” George said. He had aged considerably in the last three months. The hair on his head was almost completely gray while his beard had small speck of grey. His eyes, however, still had a youthful sparkle.
“I’ll be fine. I needed to get out and move.”
“Well, the crib is almost done. I have a couple areas I need to fix and then it’s done. Should finish it tomorrow. How are you doing?”
Adela laughed. “Same as when you asked a couple hours ago.”
“Sorry. I’m just making sure. I want you and the baby to be comfortable.”
“I am. We both are,” Adela smiled, rubbing her stomach. “Do you think Ma will snap out of it when the baby comes?” she asked, feeling kind of guilty.
George sighed. “I don’t know. This…thing she’s going through came all of a sudden so maybe when the baby does come she’ll see it’s not a demon child who will swallow her family into the pits of Hell,” he grimaced.
Adela laughed again. “Daddy,” she giggled. “You don’t think I’m an evil girl or a…whore, do you?”
“Of course not, Adela. Don’t listen to your Mother when she says stuff like that. Deep inside she doesn’t mean it. She’s just worried about you and me and her. She means well but, well, let’s just say that she’s new to this religion thing. And no matter what, she still loves you,” George said and gently rubbed his daughter’s cheek. “And I love you more each day.”
“I love you too, Daddy,” Adela and George hugged tightly.
George briskly backed away. “I felt him kick,” he smiled brightly and teared up. Suddenly, he cleared his throat. “You should get back upstairs and into bed. I’ll be up in a minute and we can talk some more,” George said. Adela smiled at her father and began heading back up the stairs.
It was raining when Adela’s water broke. The Millers were also having dinner causing a good beef dinner to be interrupted. Adela cried out in pain and grabbed the edge of the table. “I think the baby’s coming,” she strained.
George bolted from his chair and attempted to pick up Adela. “Let’s get you into bed. Margaret, boil some water and do whatever else needs to be done to bring this child into the world!” George ordered. Margaret, who had gotten out of her chair, just stood still in the kitchen. “Damn it! Put whatever you feel about us aside and help deliver this baby,” and George carried Adela up the back stairs to her room.
Several minutes later, Margaret brought a bucket of water and several towels and blankets into Adela’s room. Adela was sweating profusely and had her legs pulled up. George looked in awe at his wife who looked like he remembered her.
“All right. We could be here awhile so why don’t you boil some more water and bring up a smaller bucket of cold water and a washrag. And keep your ears peeled in case we call you back up here. Since you’re going to go to the well, I’m going to open a window so you can hear us down there,” Margaret asserted.
George nodded. “Yes, dear,” and he scurried down the stairs.
Margaret used a towel to wipe her daughter’s forehead. “Don’t worry. We’ll get that little ‘un out and still have time to finish dinner.”
Hours passed with no progress from Adela or the baby until finally, Adela yowled loudly, startling both George and Margaret. Margaret went to the end of the bed and looked under the blanket. “We got a baby coming,” Margaret said. “George, bring me all the linens and a nice soft blanket to put the baby in.”
It took another couple hours but the baby, a boy, finally came at 12:06 A.M. on January 29, 1862. Margaret wrapped the baby carefully in a soft blanket and George cut the umbilical cord. Margaret placed her grandson in his mother’s arms and took a moment to savor the occasion with her family.
“Have you thought of a name?” she asked.
“There’ve been a couple names I’ve thought about. I think George Philip would suit him nicely,” Adela looked at her father through her tired eyes.
“That’s a lovely name, Adela,” Margaret smiled. “Now, I’m going to clean up in here so our new mother and baby can get some sleep,” Margaret began picking up the laundry strewn around the room and Adela looked lovingly at her newborn son.
Harry turned his SUV down North 100 Road, getting off of Highway 40. The road went downhill into a valley and passed underneath the two bridges of Interstate 70 before becoming surrounded by the huge trees of the woods.
The road got rougher and it began going uphill. Just as the road resumed going back downhill, Harry turned into a gravel driveway and followed it until it opened into a cemetery. The cemetery was completely dark except for a light that was on near the remains of the church.
The four of them got out of the SUV and stared at the cemetery and the church. “Where’s the roof?” Dustin asked.
“Rumor has it, the caretaker’s wife burned the church before she was sent away and that’s why the church had to close,” Zeke said.
“Or it blew away. The roof was thatch so more than likely it blew off after over a hundred years of neglect,” Harry corrected.
“Killjoy,” Zeke muttered. They entered the cemetery and began heading to the church. “We’ll explore the church first then we’ll head to the house.”
“Where is the house?” Dustin asked in a low voice.
“It’s over there,” Harry pointed to a path near some trees on the other side of the cemetery. “Follow that path and the house is nearby in a clearing.”
The four of them approached the church, which was a lot bigger than it looked from the cemetery entrance. It was a simple four-sided church with three empty windows on each side, an opening in the front and a huge crack in the northwest corner. There was no evidence of a roof except for a couple of broken beams that jutted out from the tops of the walls. The rest of the beams lay broken and strewn around inside.
Harry and Zeke peered into the church from the front opening. Harry attempted to climb into church but couldn’t. “How’d people get inside? There must’ve been something with stairs or something at one point,” he suggested.
The four went around to the north side of the church and looked inside. Rocks, bricks, beams and timbers littered the floor of the church along with used cigarette butts, beer bottles and aluminum cans. Harry climbed in through the window and stood inside the church, looking up through the non-existent roof at the sky.
Zeke and the others stayed outside and continued walking. They passed by the second window on the north side and peered inside, seeing only what they saw through the first window. They came to the third window but Zeke paused and went back to the second window. On the wall was a small white thing. Zeke picked it up and looked at it. It seemed to have some floral decorations on it and looked professionally handmade from what Zeke knew.
“What’d you find?” Geoff asked.
“I don’t know. But we just looked in this window and I don’t recall this being here,” Zeke said.
Harry came over and took the thing from Zeke. He examined it. “I think it’s porcelain. I don’t know what it is—maybe a fancy vase or something from the cemetery but I’m pretty sure it’s porcelain,” Harry handed it back to Zeke who placed it into his backpack.
“How’s the inside of the church?” Zeke asked.
“Kind of boring. I like all of the graffiti though,” Harry pointed at several vandalized areas. The graffiti was mainly Satanic but some were not, like the ‘Matt & Julie’ heart of the reference to Psalms 117. “What do you think used to be up there?” Harry pointed to a plank of wood bolted to the back wall.
“Maybe it was a crucifix or something,” Dustin said.
“Maybe,” Harry trailed off. “I like this church. I wish there was some way to restore it.”
“Repair the wall, fix the ceiling and clean up the inside and it would look fine,” Zeke said, sounding enthusiastic.
“$100,000 minimum to fix this up and that’s hoping the walls and foundation are still structurally sound,” Geoff said. Everyone looked at him in shock. “My dad works in construction,” Geoff shrugged.
Harry continued walking around inside the church while Zeke, Dustin and Geoff stayed outside. Harry walked over to the back wall and stood under the bolted piece of wood. He turned and looked toward the front of the church and stared.
The other three circled the church and looked out over the cemetery. “It’s nice out here,” Dustin said.
“It’s a cemetery,” Geoff sneered. “What’s so nice about it?”
“It’s quiet. It smells like nature. I’ve never seen so many stars in the sky,” Dustin pointed up and everyone looked up. “And this old church makes it seem so...protected.”
“This church has seen a lot,” Harry said as he approached the others. “But the house has seen more. Who’s with me?”
The four headed through the cemetery toward the path that led to the house.
It was warm April day, Adela sat on the front porch in a rocking chair holding George in her arms and rocking softly. George was out in the fields with the cows and Margaret was at the church so Adela was by herself and was looking out over the cemetery and the main road several yards away.
Adela saw her mother heading toward the house, holding tight to her Bible like she always did. “Hi, Mama. How was church?” Adela cordially asked.
“It was good,” Margaret began. “Afterward, a small group of us sat down with the pastor and discussed some things. There are some parts of the Bible I’ve read but just can’t right figure them out. Where’s Pa?”
“Out in the fields. He should be back soon, it’s about lunchtime,” Adela noted.
“Then I better start making something,” Margaret took off inside.
Adela hollered after her, “Do you need any help?”
“No, thank you, Adela. You just sit comfortably . If I should need you, I’ll call for you,” Margaret hollered back.
Since George had been born, Margaret had reverted almost back to where she was before learning Adela was pregnant. She became the wife and mother that George and Adela loved. She still went to church and she still prayed in her room but she had returned to her previous family-oriented self. She had become even more headstrong toward George and helped out in the fields on occasion. Adela had often helped her father in the fields and out in the pasture until she had a child. George had to hire a farm hand who lived in a small house on the far west end of the Miller’s property.
Marion Wyman was a good ten years younger than George. He had come from Ohio and was injured in the war. He was discharged due to his injuries and moved to Kansas where he answered an ad in the Lawrence Herald of Freedom asking for an able-bodied man to help on a large farm in Big Springs. Room and board included plus generous pay. Marion was the first person to apply for the job and George, not seeing anything wrong with Marion, hired him right away.
Marion was a handsome man with a youthful face but weathered eyes. His raven black hair hung down over his forehead and eyes but Marion was always clean-shaven.
Over the weekend, Marion was invited to join the Millers for dinner and everyone enjoyed his company and he enjoyed theirs. They all talked about their lives and the state of the country and the war and other things. They also talked about religion, which was something Margaret had become an expert on.
After everyone had went to bed on a windy April night, Margaret left her and George’s bedroom and went to her prayer room and lit all of the candles. She got on her knees and began praying. She prayed for her family’s souls but still left uneasy and uncertain.
“I understand,” she began out loud, “that You still love our baby George no matter what but I still feel that he will be cursed. He’s so young and he can’t protect himself the way George, Adela and I can.” She bowed her head in prayer again and it was silent for a couple of minutes. “This poor baby doesn’t deserve the sinful life he will receive. He is so innocent and good,” Margaret began talking louder. “I shall save George. I shall make him a disciple of God!”
Margaret left her room and went down to Adela’s room where George was asleep in the crib his grandfather made for him. She quickly but quietly scooped him up in her arms and left the bedroom, using the back to get to the bottom floor and swiftly exited the house into the windy night.
George awoke a few minutes later and noticed his wife was gone. “Margaret?” he asked, dazed. He sat up and looked around the room. George got out of bed, pulling on a robe. He tapped lightly on the door to Margaret’s prayer room but got no answer. He opened the door and saw only the candles. He went down the hall to Adela’s room. The door was wide-open which was strange and he walked in. Adela was sound asleep, George peered into the crib and saw it was empty.
George wandered around the house looking for any sign of Margaret or the baby before heading back upstairs and waking Adela up. “Daddy? What’s wrong?” she asked in a sleepy and quiet voice.
“Do you know where your mother took the baby?” he whispered.
“I don’t know. I’ve been asleep. George is gone?” Adela seemed to completely wake up with that question. “Maybe she’s down in the kitchen?” Adela suggested.
“I looked all around the house and neither she or George are inside,” George shook his head.
“Should we go out and look for them?” Adela asked.
“Where would we start? Even if they are somewhere on the farm, that’s a good square mile they could be in. If they are not on the farm, then they could literally be anywhere.”
“I’m sure everything is fine but I think we should go down to the kitchen and wait for them to return,” Adela said.
It was about an hour later when Margaret came through the back door in the kitchen. She had been crying and had a dazed look in her eyes. She was shaking and half of her body was soaking wet. Adela stood up and looked up at her mother. George stopped pacing and crossed his arms. Margaret walked by them both and up the back stairs and into her prayer room. George and Adela hurried after her and George pounded on the door.
“Margaret! Margaret, get out here,” George yelled. When she didn’t answer, George opened the door and her and Adela saw Margaret on her knees, praying. “Margaret? Do you know where George is?” he asked calmly.
She looked at him innocently. “George?”
“Yes, George! Adela’s son and your grandchild!” George got angry.
“I saved him.”
Adela knelt down next to her mother. “You saved him? How Mama? Why’d you save him?”
“He was born of sin and would be cursed for the rest of his life. He was just an innocent baby. He didn’t deserve the life that was handed to him,” Margaret began to cry. “I saved him from Satan. He’s with God now.”
Adela looked up at George with tears in her eyes. She turned back to Margaret and sniffled. “Mama? Where is George? What did you do to him?”
“He’s with God. I took him to the pond and gave him to God,” Margaret said. Adela began sobbing and George dashed out of the house.
George retrieved the baby’s body out of the pond that was in a wooded area of the Miller farm. He dug a grave for the baby near the house and made a gravestone reading, George P. Miller, son of A. Miller, Jan. 29, 1862, Apr. 12, 1862 and placed it flush was the ground.
Neither George or Adela knew what to do. They left Margaret alone, usually in her prayer room and tried to go about their normal lives. George and Marion continued to work the farm while Adela walked around the house in a daze, constantly crying. Only a couple weeks after George had died, Adela shut herself in her room while her father and Marion were out in the fields and Margaret had locked herself in her prayer room.
Adela began writing a letter. She filled the piece of paper front and back. She read it over several times before leaving it alone and walking away from her desk. Adela sat on her bed and took one of her father’s razors in her hand. She clenched her teeth and closed her eyes as she drug the razor across her left wrist. The blood poured out onto the wooden floor and Adela laid down with her arm hanging off the side, letting the blood continue to drip.
George came home to a completely silent house. He poured himself a cup of coffee and slowly meandered upstairs to the bedrooms. He knocked on Adela’s door but got no answer. He knocked louder and when he got no answer again, he opened the door and saw his daughter lying in bed, her wrist cut open.
He tried to wake her up but it was too late. George saw the note on Adela’s desk and read it over several times before falling to his knees, weeping.
Adela was buried in Big Springs Cemetery in a plot George bought for his family near the house. It was a small funeral, just her family, Marion and a couple of townspeople who were close to the Millers. After the funeral, George went home while Margaret went to the church.
The limestone house rose up among the trees and seemed to glow in the moonlight. Zeke, Harry, Dustin and Geoff slowly approached the house. The trail that led from the cemetery road disappeared into the grass. There was another trail just past the house that led into the trees.
All the windows and doors of the house were boarded up and a ‘No Trespassing’ sign was posted on one of the boards. There was some graffiti painted along the first floor but it was mainly your generic scribbles. The four of them approached a boarded-up door and pointed their flashlights at the house.
“How do we get inside? All the openings are boarded shut,” Geoff asked.
“There’s got to be a way in,” Harry said in a whisper. “Let’s look around the house.”
They headed around the north side of the house and Harry shined his flashlight at the small window to the basement but continued walking. They stood in the open of the yard and looked at the rear of the house. They saw a door leading to the basement that had been kicked off its hinges and laying across the stairs.
“I think we found our entrance,” Harry said. They walked over to the door and shined their flashlights around. “Ready to go in?”
“What’s down that trail?” Dustin asked he pointed his flashlight over to the trail that led into the trees.
“That probably leads to other buildings, like a barn or something,” Harry looked.
“Let’s go look,” Dustin headed off toward the trail. Zeke followed and Harry and Geoff trailed behind. As they entered the tree line, Harry got to the front of the group with Zeke and Dustin close behind. The first thing they came to was a huge stone foundation. “Whoa! What is this?” Dustin went over to the foundation and leaned over, shining his flashlight into the pit.
“Looks like a foundation to a barn maybe,” Harry also looked in and focused his flashlight on all of the small trees now growing in the pit. “Whatever was here hasn’t been here for quite awhile.”
“What do you think happened?” Zeke asked.
“If the barn was as old as the house, it probably got torn down or fell down on it’s own,” Harry said. “It also may have been moved so it could be preserved.”
“Do you want to continue down the path?” Zeke asked. As he shined his flashlight down the trail, the light reflected off of a couple watersheds and a huge spider web.
“Maybe in the daylight,” Harry said and the four of them went back to the house where something caught Zeke’s eye.
“What’s that?” Zeke dashed over to a stack of rocks that had a gravestone placed in the center of it. “It’s the grave,” he said.
“’George P., son of A. Miller’,” Harry read. “He was only two and a half months old.”
“Do you think this is the baby who the mother murdered in the story?” Dustin asked.
“Probably,” Harry answered. “If that part of the story is true.”
They went back to the door of the basement and Harry tried to carefully move the door out of the way but just ended up making a lot of noise. They stepped over the door and Harry shined his flashlight along the floor catching sight of several mice.
The floor to the basement was dirt and was separated into two rooms. The walls were almost completely demolished but the ceiling and floors above were still in good shape. The four silently walked around the first room before going to the second. There was no staircase upstairs and what may have been an exit was solidly boarded up.
“How do we get upstairs?” Zeke asked.
“I think there is our only option,” Harry shined his flashlight up at a hole in the ceiling. “Someone help me up.”
Harry turned off his flashlight and stuck it in his pocket then grabbed ahold of the edge of the hole. Geoff and Zeke each got under a foot and shoved Harry up through the hole. Next, Geoff was lifted up then Dustin. Zeke was last, presumably because he was the heaviest. Zeke had some trouble pulling himself up even with the help of the other three.
They finally got Zeke on the first floor, they looked around what was obviously a living room. The walls were still pretty torn up, there was graffiti in random places and the place smelled musty.
There was no evidence of anyone living in the house for possibly decades. Even the kitchen just had a couple cabinets still attached to the wall. The counters had been removed and the kitchen was stripped bare.
“There’s nothing here. This is boring,” Geoff said.
“All the occult stuff is supposedly in the attic or the third floor but it’s inaccessible,” Harry said. “There are no stairs leading to the attic and supposedly the attic hasn’t been entered in twenty years.”
“How can there be no way to get up there?” Dustin asked.
“Its a hundred and fifty year old house that has been abandoned since the early Twentieth Century, the stairs have rotted and collapsed. Come on, let’s see if we can get upstairs,” Harry said and left the kitchen and went down the small hallway to the foot of the stairs. Almost every third stair was missing and there was a large gap of stairs missing about halfway up. Harry placed his foot on the second step and pressed his weight down. The step creaked and groaned. “Hold this and point it up the stairs,” he handed his flashlight to Dustin.
Harry stepped onto the molding that connected the stairs to the wall and slowly began heading up carefully only stepping on the stairs if he needed to. He made it to the second floor and Dustin tossed the flashlight back to him then attempted to climb the stairs himself. When he made it to the top, Geoff began heading up.
Zeke paused when it was his turn. “I can’t do it,” he said.
“You haven’t even tried. Now get up here,” Harry ordered.
“I’m not as skinny as all of you. My feet are too big!”
“Your fat ass doesn’t matter,” Geoff said.
“I wear a size 14 wide shoe,” Harry said. “My feet are almost twice as big as yours.”
“I wear a size nine,” Zeke argued as he began up the molding.
“I wear a size 12,” Geoff said.
“Size 10,” Dustin revealed.
“All right, I get it. Everyone has bigger feet than me!” Zeke shouted from the middle of the staircase as he grabbed ahold of the edge of the floor.
“You know what they say about people with big feet, right?” Harry asked, smiling. “They wear big shoes.”
Zeke joined the other three on the second floor and they grouped together in the hallway. They all looked up at the ceiling, which was higher than the ceiling for the first floor.
“The ceiling downstairs was only six and a half feet high. I wonder how come this one is so much taller,” Harry wondered.
“To keep people out of the caretaker’s Satanic ritual room,” Geoff said.
“Well, the caretaker had to have a way up there,” Harry noted. “Let’s split up and search the bedrooms. Dustin, Geoff, you’re on that side. Zeke and I will do this side.”
Dustin and Geoff went into one of the rooms and just pointed their flashlights around. Dustin noticed that one of the windows wasn’t boarded up and went over to shine his light out onto the field below the house. “Isn’t this the southwest window?” he asked.
Geoff thought about it, then answered. “I think so.”
“What was the story Harry told us about the southwest window? Something about a horse,” Dustin said.
“The white horse. If you stand quiet at the southwest window, you’ll hear the neigh of a horse,” Geoff recalled as he walked over to the window.
They actually stood quiet for several minutes listening but only heard the faint talking of Zeke and Harry on the other side of the house and the leaves on trees rustling in the light breeze. Suddenly, the faint sound of a horse neighing in the distance was heard. “Oh my God! I heard it! I heard a horse neigh!” Dustin was ecstatic.
“Yeah, there’s a horse farm nearby,” Geoff said.
“Really? How far away?”
“Mile, mile and a half. That way, toward the highway,” Geoff pointed out the window.
“Then how come they say it’s the neigh is of a ghost horse?” Dustin asked.
“The girl rode off on a horse and the story is for idiots who don’t know there’s a horse farm nearby,” Geoff said. “Let’s finish looking around in here and the next bedroom.”
Dustin looked in the closet which was very small. Aside from the shelf, nothing was there. The other window in the room was boarded up. Dustin noticed that even though the house was abandoned there was a noticeable absence of spider webs but he did note the splatters of bird feces and the mice feces strewn about the floors.
They left the one bedroom and went past the stairs to the other one on their side. Dustin felt a chill go up his spine and Geoff slowed his pace as they entered the room. It was slightly smaller than the last room but had more windows. Two on the east side and one on the south, all boarded up. The floor also squeaked more than in the other room.
“There’s something odd about this room,” Geoff said in a low whisper. “I don’t like it.”
“It’s kind of weirding me out, too,” Dustin said. “Does it seem darker in here? Like the flashlights are dim or something? Maybe it’s just the lack of moonlight.”
“I don’t know. It does seem darker now that you mention it,” Geoff agreed. “There’s nothing in these rooms. Let’s go meet back up with Zeke and Harry.”
They left the room and went down the hall to the room Zeke and Harry were in now and found Harry on the floor.
George knocked on the door to Marion’s house. Marion opened the door and was kind of surprised to find his landlord on his stoop. “Mr. Miller, what a nice surprise. I can’t remember the last time you were here.”
“Marion, we’ve known each other for over a year. You can call me George,” George said with a laugh. “Can I come in?”
“Of course. Welcome,” Marion invited and George came in. Marion’s house, which was constructed by George to house any laborer he hired, was a small and modest limestone affair with three rooms on the first floor and two on the second. “What brings you here? Something wrong with the farm?”
“No, everything’s fine,” George began and sat down at Marion’s kitchen table. “I wanted to talk to you about what you are going to do when your work here at the farm is done.”
“Done? I really haven’t thought about it. I figured I’d be here until I saved up enough to buy my own farm. Or until you kicked me off the property,” Marion laughed.
“Do you want to start your own farm?” George asked.
“I wouldn’t mind but there’s always been something I wanted to do. I want to open a furniture store. All the furniture in this house I made,” Marion revealed. “I think I could sell it.”
George examined the table and nodded. “I’m not an expert at woodwork but it sure looks sturdy,” George got serious again and reluctantly continued. “You should start looking into that. I’m not sure how much longer I…we are going to be here and I wouldn’t want to leave you in a lurch.”
“Are you and the missus going to visit somewhere or are you moving?” Marion asked.
George was silent, then, “I don’t know. I think we’ll be moving. We just…kind of need to get away from Big Springs.”
“I understand. Losing both your daughter and grandson within the span of a month is
not something I’d wish on my worst enemy. How’s the missus taking it?”
Again, George was silent. “Margaret is, or was, taking it like she normally does: by burying her nose in the Bible and going to church,” George became angered by this and Marion immediately noticed.
“Well, it’s good she has something to keep her strong,” he tried.
“Oh, Marion. If only you knew,” George chuckled. “So I don’t know when or where we will be going but I wanted to go ahead and pay you now for the next three months,” George pulled out a lot of cash from his pocket and began counting it.
“Oh, George, that’s fine but you don’t have to. You can just continue to pay me by the month and…”
George interrupted. “I told you that I don’t know when we’ll leave. It could be tomorrow, it could be six months from now. Now, here’s three months pay and an extra half month for all of your hard work.”
Marion eyed the money then looked at George. Marion cautiously took the money and cleared his throat. “George? Is something wrong?”
“Everything’s fine. I need to get back to the house,” George stood up and shook Marion’s hand. “I’ll see you first thing in the morning.”
It was two months later. George and Marion finished their work on the farm and Marion was preparing to head home. “Hold up a moment,” George hollered. Marion paused. “I wanted to let you know that your services will not be required anymore.” George put his hand in his pocket and pulled out another wad of money.
“You and the missus finally leaving, huh?”
“Yeah,” George hesitated. “Here’s another month of pay. For all the hard work you’ve been doing.”
“Mr. Miller—George, you’ve already paid me. You’ve been more than generous.”
“Just take it. I have it and don’t need it so it should go to someone who does need it. You’ve been a hard worker, a good person and almost like a son to me. This is my way of saying ‘thanks.’”
Marion took the money and looked at George. “Thank you for this wonderful experience, George,” Marion began, pocketing the money. “I hope our paths will cross again.”
“I’m sure they will,” George smiled. The two men turned and went their separate ways. George slowly walked up to his house, passing by his grandson’s grave. He knelt down and touched the engraving on the stone and teared up. He stood back up and composed himself and headed into the house. “Margaret?” he shouted, his voice echoing hollowly through the house.
There was no answer.
George went upstairs and knocked on Margaret’s prayer room door but, again, got no answer. George seemed satisfied and went down to the basement and grabbed a strong length of rope.
He went back upstairs and squeezed his way through a small door and up a very narrow staircase to the attic. He tossed the rope over a beam and slid a chair underneath it.
It was several hours after Margaret got home from church that she found her husband hanging in the attic. And it was another three days before anyone knew what had happened.
After finding her husband, Margaret broke down. She locked herself in her prayer room and prayed for three days as George hung in the attic. Marion, riding past the house as he was leaving for Lawrence noticed the candles in the window and decided to stop and say good-bye.
Marion hopped off his horse and walked onto the porch. He knocked loudly but heard no signs of movement. He pushed the door open and stepped in. “Mr. Miller? George?” he shouted but got no reply. “I wonder if they accidentally left the candles burning,” Marion said to himself.
He went upstairs and attempted to open the prayer room door but it was locked. “Mrs. Miller? Are you in there?”
He pressed his ear to the door and heard Margaret’s muffled voice. He tried to the door again then just decided to kick it in. The door banged against the wall but Margaret barely moved. She continued to kneel and mumble Bible verses.
“Mrs. Miller, are you okay?” he shook her. “Where’s George?”
Margaret looked at Marion. She mumbled an answer with a Bible verse intermingled with it. Marion could pick out the word ‘attic’ so he ran to the small door that led to the attic and squeezed his way up the stairs.
George was buried next to Adela in the Miller plot George had purchased after Adela died in Big Springs Cemetery. Margaret was left in the house for awhile but was soon sent to the State Hospital in Osawatomie and stayed there until her death in 1883. She was buried in the hospital cemetery.
Marion stayed behind to take care of the house. He did some minor upkeep and removed all evidence of the attic staircase by building a wall where the door was. He finally sold it to Loren and Julia Anderson, a young newlywed couple who raised their three children there and lived happily ever after.
In 1972, the Anderson’s left leaving the house abandoned. Ten years later, the county obtained it for back taxes and the land was sold to the Big Springs Cemetery Association to prepare for expansion. The house has sat virtually untouched since.
While Dustin and Geoff were off doing their thing, Zeke and Harry were trying to find an access to the attic. They knocked on walls, pounded around in closets and pushed on the ceiling with their flashlights. “There has got to be a way up there,” Harry said, aggravated. “A staircase, ladder, something!”
“Maybe there is no attic. Maybe we are just overestimating the size of the house,” said Zeke.
“We can’t be. The outside of the house has a vent or window on it so there has to be something up there even if it’s only a foot of space,” Harry pointed out.
“The previous owners or whoever obviously didn’t want anyone going up into the attic. They probably removed the stairs and sealed up the entryway,” Zeke said. “Face it, Harry. Aside from being a really cool abandoned house, there’s nothing else here.”
Harry was quiet for a moment. “There’s one other room. I’m going to look around in there and then we can go.”
The two left the one bedroom and went into the other but found a whole lot of nothing like the first one. Harry looked closely in the closet at the ceiling. “What are you doing in there?” Zeke asked.
“When I was growing up,” Harry began stabbing the ceiling of the closet with his flashlight. It was difficult because it was so much taller than him but he seemed to manage. “the attic access was in my bedroom closet. I always wanted to go up there but was too chicken to do it. I don’t know why. Nothing was up there, it was our attic!” Harry finally got a large chunk of the ceiling to fall away leaving a hole about the size of a DVD case.
“Nice. Trespassing, breaking and entering and now vandalism,” Zeke said.
“Shut up or I’ll add murder to that list,” Harry breathed heavily. “Now help me up.”
Zeke looked at the hole. “You can’t fit through there!”
“Duh! I need to make the hole bigger but I can’t get any force into my arms because I’m not tall enough. Now help me onto your shoulders,” Harry said.
“Well, this isn’t going to end well,” Zeke sighed. Zeke put the flashlight down on the floor and clasped his hands.
Harry stepped in it and Zeke raised him up. Harry grabbed onto Zeke’s hair and to the hole and tried to steady himself. Zeke began getting wobbly. “Hold still!” Harry yelled.
“I’m trying! I thought you said you only weighed 180!” Zeke strained.
“Sure. Whatever! Hurry up, I’m losing my balance!”
“I haven’t even started yet!”
“Oh, I’m going down,” Zeke collapsed and he and Harry fell to the floor.
Dustin and Geoff entered the room and saw both of them on the floor. “What’s going on?” Dustin asked.
“Harry lied about his weight,” Zeke groaned.
“Did you find anything?” Harry asked.
“No,” Dustin said.
“Us either. We were attempting to get into the attic but our plan failed,” Harry said. “Geoff, you’re taller and stronger than Zeke. Can you lift me up?”
“I think we should just leave it alone,” Dustin began. “Obviously, whoever isn’t going to let us see the attic very easily. We should just cut our losses and accept that this house is and will remain a mystery.”
Harry inhaled deeply. “We have an hour before Taco Bell closes.”
“Sounds good to me,” Zeke said.
The four left the house the same way they came in and walked back through the cemetery to Harry’s SUV. The moonlight still illuminated the house and all the tombstones in the cemetery. Harry looked back at the church, cemetery and where the house was, hidden by the trees before he got in and started his SUV.
by Brian Hall at 1/28/2013 08:00:00 AM No comments:
Labels: 1860s, abandoned houses, gas stations, Liberty, repeat, sex, Tank N Tummy, writing, Zeke and Harry
What About Brian?
There is a post over at The Point of Beginning talking about the future of Tauy Creek so you should go check it out.
by Brian Hall at 1/01/2013 03:00:00 PM No comments:
Labels: metapost, POB
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Αρχική » Last to Die {USED}
Last to Die {USED}
Εκδοτικός Οίκος: Bantam
Συγγραφέας: Tess Gerritsen
"Suspense doesn't get much smarter than this." (Lee Child). "Crime-writing at its unputdownable, nerve-tingling best." (Harlan Coben Murder). That's what they all have in common. Detective Jane Rizzoli and Forensic Pathologist Maura Isles find themselves locked inside a high-security boarding school along with the students. They are told it's for their own safety. The school has been set up to provide a place of sanctuary for children who have lost their families in violent circumstances. But now there has been a murder within the grounds. Does the threat come from outside...or from within?
Ετικέτες: Last, to, Die, USED
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Josefina Carbonell
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Who is Josefina Carbonell? Biography, gossip, facts?
Josefina G. Carbonell was the third Assistant Secretary for Aging at the Administration on Aging within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. She was appointed by President Bush in 2001 and served in the position until 2009. Before her time in public service Carbonell was President and CEO of the Little Havana Activities and Nutrition Centers in Florida.
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(Opinion) : Big Lessons from US reactions to bloody protest at the capitol hill.
Buhari describes Obasanjo as indescreet in comments..divisive, mischievous & offensive
Younews Ng May 21, 2019 Events, Investigation, News, obanjo, Trending, Whistle Blower Leave a comment 336 Views
The federal government has described former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s comments imputing ethno-religious motive to Boko Haram and ISWAP as deeply offensive and patently divisive, saying such indiscreet comments are far below the status of an elder statesman.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday, the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, said it was particularly tragic that a man who fought to keep Nigeria one is the same one seeking to exploit the country’s fault lines to divide it in the twilight of his life.
He said Boko Haram and ISWAP are terrorist organizations pure and simple, adding that they care little about ethnicity or religion when perpetrating their senseless killings and destruction.
”Since the Boko Haram crisis, which had been simmering under the watch of Obasanjo, boiled over in 2009, the terrorist organization has killed more Muslims than adherents of any other religion, blown up more mosques than any other houses of worship and is not known to have spared any victim on the basis of their ethnicity. It is therefore absurd to say that Boko Haram and its ISWAP variant have as their goal the ‘Fulanisation and Islamisation’ of Nigeria, West Africa or Africa,” Alhaji Mohammed said.
He said President Buhari put to rest the mis-characterization of Boko Haram as an Islamic organization when he said, in his inaugural speech in 2015, that ”Boko Haram is a mindless, godless group who are as far away from Islam as one can think of”.
The Minister said Obasanjo’s comments are therefore as insensitive and mischievous as they are as offensive and divisive in a multi-ethnic and multi-religious country like Nigeria, wondering whether there is no limit to how far the former President will go in throwing poisonous darts at his perceived political enemies.
He said Obasanjo’s prescriptions for ending the Boko Haram/ISWAP crisis, which include seeking assistance outside the shores of Nigeria, are coming several years late, as President Buhari has done that and more since assuming office, hence the phenomenal success he has recorded in tackling the terrorists.
”Shortly after assuming office in 2015, President Buhari’s first trips outside the country were to rally the support of Nigeria’s neighbours – Benin, Cameroon, Chad and Niger – for the efforts to battle the terrorists. The President also rallied the support of the international community, starting with the G7, and then the US, France
and the UN.
”That explains the massive degrading of Boko Haram, which has since lost its capacity to carry out the kind of spectacular attacks for which it became infamous, and the recovery of every inch of captured Nigerian territory from the terrorists,” Alhaji Mohammed said.
He said Obasanjo’s call for wide consultations with various groups as part of the efforts to tackle the Boko Haram crisis has been neutralized by his ill-advised comments which have served more to alienate a large number of Nigerians, who are offended by his tactless and distasteful postulation.
The Minister called on the former President, whom he said took bullets for Nigeria’s unity, not to allow personal animosity to override his
love for a united Nigeria, saying it will not be out of place if he withdraws his unfortunate statement and apologizes to Nigerians.
Buhari describes Obasanjo as indescreet in comments..divisive mischievous & offensive Slidedhow 2019-05-21
Tags Buhari describes Obasanjo as indescreet in comments..divisive mischievous & offensive Slidedhow
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Martin Nguyen Determined to Make History at One: Legends of the World
Martin “The Situ-Asian” Nguyen completed his climb to the apex of ONE Championship’s competitive 70.3-kilogram weight class by clinching a prestigious martial arts gold against a fierce Russian rival.
The 28-year-old Australian standout knocked out the previously unbeaten Marat “Cobra” Gafurov and laid claim to the featherweight crown in the main event of ONE: QUEST FOR GREATNESS this past August.
Nguyen may have won the ONE Featherweight World Championship by defeating a tough foe like Gafurov in August, but now he is moving up a weight class and looking to acquire a second world title.
The newly-minted featherweight kingpin is set to challenge Filipino martial arts superstar Eduard “Landslide” Folayang for the ONE Lightweight World Championship in the main event of ONE: LEGENDS OF THE WORLD, which takes place at the 20,000-seater SM Mall of Asia Arena in Manila, Philippines.
For Nguyen, he savors the opportunity to become the first two-division world champion in ONE Championship history.
“I like Eduard [Folayang]. I said to myself I did not want to compete against someone I like and take away their glory, but opportunities like this do not come around too often. And, if I refused to do this, someone else was going to compete against him and take his glory. So it is strictly business,” he said.
According to Nguyen, he considers his highly-anticipated championship clash with Folayang as a dream come true.
“Following my title win, I took a one-month vacation. But in my mind, I really wanted to compete. I was so eager to return to the cage once more before the conclusion of 2017. My wish came true in the form of this dream match against Eduard Folayang,” he shared.
After signing the bout agreement for the cross-divisional showdown with Folayang, Nguyen immediately headed back into training camp and will train as usual with KMA Top Team in Sydney, Australia to figure out the puzzle that is the ONE Lightweight World Champion.
While the Filipino is a world-class striker, Nguyen has noticed a recurring pattern in his style that could leave him vulnerable in their upcoming title tilt.
“Eduard’s striking is pretty legit. A bit wild, but it works for him. Everyone who gets tagged by Eduard, they walk into every single one of his strikes and put pressure on him. But Eduard is the counter striker, and everyone who comes forward gets hit with a spinning attack, a big right hand, or big kicks,” he explained.
“You have to keep moving against someone like Eduard. If you do not move, then you are a standing punching bag. With my style, I am always moving. If I am going backwards, sideways, or forward, I want to make it hard for him to hit me, and I want to make every bit of my wrestling count,” Nguyen added.
Despite being the taller athlete by a mere three centimeters, Nguyen anticipates being the lighter man on the night of ONE: LEGENDS OF THE WORLD.
Nguyen plans to use that to his advantage, believing his speed and dynamism will be his keys to victory in the five-round championship contest.
“My strength in this match is my pace and my cardio. Eduard has legitimate cardio, obviously, training in Baguio City, but going at the pace I go at, I think he is going to fatigue, and my grappling will get the best of him. He is a strong guy, but I will use his weight against him in this match,” he stated.
Nguyen knows that he has quite the challenge ahead of him, especially since he is heading into Folayang’s home turf of Manila in the Philippines.
However, Nguyen is up to the task and trusts in his plan that he will take home the ONE Lightweight World Championship and write his name in history books.
“It is so surreal, Last year, I set my goals. I said to myself, ‘This year, I want to rematch Marat [Gafurov], take the belt off of him, and become a two-division champion.’ I am 75 percent of the way there. I beat Marat, and I got the featherweight belt. Now I am in a super bout for the first time ever in ONE Championship history to become a two-division champion. Everything is falling into place. It is appealing to know all hard work pays off,” he stressed.
Although he has a tough test in front of him on 10 November, Nguyen remains optimistic that a decisive outcome will be in his favor at ONE: LEGENDS OF THE WORLD.
“This match is going to be stopped,” he guaranteed. “I would love for it to be a KO, but I see it as a submission or a TKO for Martin ‘The Situ-Asian’ Nguyen, of course.”
For more updates on ONE Championship, please visit www.onefc.com, follow us on Twitter and Instagram @ONEChampionship, and like us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ONEChampionship.
Mindanao Power Supply Restored After Transmission Tower Bombing
Department of Energy Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi immediately convened the Inter-Agency Task Force on Securing Energy Facilities (IATSEF) to coordinate the restoration of the power services in affected areas in Mindanao. This was done following the attack on Transmission Tower 106 along Kibawe and Sultan Kudarat by suspected terrorists at around 11:30 p.m. Tuesday, October 3.
The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), a member of the IATSEF, was able to tap an alternative power transmission line to temporarily supply the needed electricity. After the bombing of Tower 106, power was temporarily sourced from an alternative route through the Tacurong 69kV line. Because of this, the voltage was being maintained at 45MW due to load limitation.
The NGCP also reported that a rotating load curtailment is being implemented in the franchise areas of Maguindanao Electric Cooperative, Cotabato Electric Cooperative and Palma & Cotelco Light & Power to maintain the delivery of power services in the affected areas.
To improve the delivery of electricity service further, a bypass line is being constructed through an excavation for anchors and the setting up of two sets of Emergency Restoration System from the Baloi Substation. As per NGCP, the completion of the other significant restoration works may take two more days.
Cusi reminded the IATSEF to ensure the safety of the personnel performing the restoration works and asked law enforcers to investigate and arrest the bombers.
Pagani Automobili Hypercars: Coming to the Philippines Soon!
For hardcore motorheads, hypercars represent the ultimate in automotive technology, a notch above supercars in terms of performance, technology, design, luxury, exclusivity, and rarity. With price tags in the millions of dollars, hypercars exist only in the rarefied world of the rich and famous, and ordinary mortals might never get to see one in their lifetime, except on a movie screen—or in a scale model box.
Some hypercars offered in the market are the Bugatti Chiron, the Lamborghini Centenario, and the Porsche 918. Exclusively creating only hypercars, Pagani is a marque that many Filipino motorists may not be familiar with. Founded in 1992 by Argentinian Horacio Pagani, the company is based in the Motor Valley, just outside of Modena, Italy, and is manned by just 130 employees.
The Pagani Zonda was first introduced at the 1999 Geneva Motor Show. Although it does not share the names of its customers, it is well-known that Lewis Hamilton owns a purple 2012 Pagani Zonda.
The Pagani Huayra, which was featured in the 2013 Transformers 4 movie, retails for US$2.5-million. It has a top speed of 378kph, and 0-100kph acceleration time is 3.2-seconds. Only about 40 units are built each year.
How do you recognize a Pagani? Its most distinctive feature is the 4-tube exhaust—the Quattro Scarichi, in Italian—coming together in a circle.
There are currently no Pagani hypercars in the Philippines, but that may change very soon!
Most Sought-After Locations for Properties in 2017
Global real estate website Lamudi unveils the most searched areas in the Philippines for the first nine months of 2017
Where do Filipinos want to live? Global real estate website Lamudi provides an answer to this question by looking at its online search data from the first nine months of 2017. Based from the choice of more than 11 million site visits, these are the preferred locations of online property hunters in 2017.
1. Quezon City
Metro Manila’s largest city (both in terms of size and population) is still the Philippines’ most popular city among property. According to Lamudi, Quezon City’s popularity can be attributed to the sheer volume of listings available, which number around 15,000 properties for sale and for rent. The city also has a number of high-ticket real estate projects in the pipeline, most notable of which include the city’s official CBD, Triangle Park. It is also noteworthy that some of its neighborhoods, including Cubao, Eastwood City, Commonwealth, and Fairview, are some of the most searched areas on the Lamudi platform.
2. Parañaque
The “City of Subdivisions,” southern Metro Manila’s Parañaque is the second most searched city on Lamudi for the first three quarters of 2017. Aside from its popular enclaves—including Merville Park, BF Homes, Multinational Village, and Better Living Subdivision—Parañaque is also home to the up-and-coming Entertainment City, where three of Metro Manila’s multibillion-dollar resort casinos are already operating.
3. Makati
At third spot is the Philippines’ business and financial capital, Makati. Although it may seem that people are looking further afield due to the city’s sky-high property prices, Makati remains a highly sought-after location, which is best demonstrated by a number of exciting projects, especially those outside its central business district (CBD) area. Some of the areas that are gaining attention include Brgy. San Antonio and Chino Roces Avenue, both of which now boast condo projects from some of the country’s biggest players.
4. Cebu
The Queen City of the South is the fourth most searched city for real estate during the first nine months of 2017. Its laidback ambiance complemented by modern conveniences is hard to resist, which entices many to invest or even relocate in the city. It is also worth noting that Cebu is perhaps one of the few cities outside Metro Manila that boasts a full-fledged, master-planned business district.
5. Las Piñas
Las Piñas is the fifth most preferred destination by property seekers. Like its neighbor to the north Parañaque, it boasts numerous gated communities catering to both affordable and high-end markets. The city also has a distinct residential feel that attracts many house-hunters and with transport infrastructure in the south rapidly developing, it will not be surprising to see many to start moving to Las Piñas soon.
6. Manila
Often overlooked, the City of Manila is a fresh entry to the top ten most searched city for real estate. However, considering the immense evolution that is expected to take place in the city, we can expect to see more and more people check out Manila for its real estate. Many condominiums and townhomes projects are currently in the pipeline, particularly those found along Taft Avenue, Roxas Boulevard, and even under-the-radar neighborhoods like Santa Ana. In addition, the city’s local government announced a reclamation project on Manila Bay to start soon. This makes Manila not just a good place to invest, but a city to watch out for in the coming years.
7. Pasig
Pasig is home to the eastern half of Ortigas Center—one of Metro Manila’s three most important business districts. Because of its strategic location, real estate choices in the city continue to surge up. Its property offerings are diverse, from office and commercial spaces and mid-end and upscale condos, to houses and townhouses in both high-end and mid-end gated communities. This makes Pasig a worthy top-of-mind destination when it comes to real estate investment.
8. Taguig
Taguig is home to Bonifacio Global City (BGC)—one of the most important business districts in the country. As the live-where-you-work concept is more appealing to homebuyers nowadays, Taguig is a popular choice among online property-seekers. Aside from BGC and McKinley Hill, other Taguig areas are also gaining popularity, including Brgy. Ususan, AFPOVAI Village, and Arca South, among others.
9. Santa Rosa
This Laguna city, located approximately 38 kilometers south of Metro Manila, offers some of the most highly sought-after properties outside the Philippine capital. Santa Rosa has a number of high-profile gated communities and mixed-use developments, including Ayala Land’s Nuvali, Cathay Land’s South Forbes, and Vista Land’s Sta. Elena City. The city is also well-connected to Metro Manila and the rest of CALABARZON via the South Luzon Expressway, while the upcoming Cavite–Laguna Expressway (CALA) will make it high accessible from the Kawit Exit of the Manila–Cavite Expressway.
10. Antipolo
Located east of Metro Manila in Rizal Province, Antipolo is mostly known as a tourism hub and a pilgrimage site, but this year the city is getting much attention from property-seekers. This city, home to almost 780,000 residents, is the place to be for value-for-money properties for first-time homebuyers and starting families.
Lamudi Housing Fair 2017
Many real estate choices from the top ten most-searched cities on the Lamudi platform will surely be available at the upcoming Lamudi Housing Fair, slated this October 13–15 at Megatrade Hall 1, SM Megamall in Mandaluyong. Exclusive property discounts, auctions of foreclosed properties, and home-buying and investment seminars are just some of the highlights of this year’s housing fair. For more information, visit www.lamudi.com.ph/housing_fair.
Online Tax Assistance Platform Taxumo is the First Digital Startup to Get Four-Year Tax Holiday from BOI
As part of the government’s thrust to spur the digital startup industry and technological innovations in the Philippines, pioneering online tax assistance platform Taxumo was recently granted a four-year income tax holiday so it can focus its resources on growing its business.
This recent move makes Taxumo the first digital startup firm approved by the Board of Investments (BOI) under the 2017 IPP (Investment Priorities Plan.)
Taxumo is an easy online tax filing and payment web app that revolutionizes tax processing for Filipino solo entrepreneurs, self-employed professionals, and freelancers. Says EJ Arboleda, Taxumo’s CEO: “We are grateful that the BOI has given the attention to Taxumo, which sets a precedent for the tech startup industry to get the support it needs to move forward, which in turn will generate jobs and ease business operations. We are proud to be leading the way for the industry.”
“Digitalization is a great equalizer that levels the playing field among small and large firms. Adopting an innovation-led business model, like the integration of digital strategies and e-commerce, enables MSMEs to scale-up their status and become competitive in the long run,” Trade Secretary and BOI Chairman Ramon M. Lopez said.
“We must effectively tap the potential of MSMEs as it forms a significant part in of our country’s growth resurgence and nurturing them not just as backbones of our economy but also one of the prime movers of both domestic and regional growth.”
Trade Undersecretary and BOI Managing Head Ceferino Rodolfo said: “BOI supports entrepreneurial startups as an engine for economic development and as a key driver of economic diversification and job creation. While the Philippine start-ups sector is at a nascent stage, our large young internet-savvy population and growing economy make the country a hot-bed for technology-driven activities.”
He stressed “the need to have a forward thinking mentality that is anchored on providing entrepreneurs and startups with the necessary support to start and grow right from the earliest stages of development.”
Through Taxumo, users simply enter their income and expenses in the system regularly, which then provides real-time information on tax dues.
The platform also autofills the relevant tax forms (BIR Form 2551M for Monthly Percentage Tax Payments, Form 1701Q for Quarterly Income Tax Payments, and soon, Form 1701 for Annual Income Tax Payments) with calculations based on the data entered by the user.
From there, they can easily file and pay their tax dues online through Taxumo as well. Users can avail of paid subscription packages on the platform, depending on their needs.
See other tax return options here
Debunking Outsourcing Myths
Wazzup Pilipinas!Outsourcing is an emerging strategy used by many organizations today to keep their business operations efficient and profitable.
Outsourcing allows companies to assign certain business operations to outsourcing firms rather than accomplishing it internally, thereby, reducing manpower expenses and other operational costs without sacrificing operational efficiencies.
However, despite its obvious benefits, there are still some companies that do not yet fully appreciate the advantages outsourcing brings to a business. In fact, they often look at the practice as an added expense rather than an opportunity to cut costs.
Prople, Inc., one of the leading business outsourcing companies in the country, lists some misconceptions about outsourcing and what are the truths behind these myths.
1. Outsourcing can only reduce costs
Truth be told, outsourcing primarily reduces costs. However, this is only one of its many benefits. Outsourcing also helps increase productivity because the personnel assigned to the task is usually highly trained for the job. This means that less or no training is needed for the task to be done. In the long run, it increases efficiency and productivity because it allows companies to focus on their core business instead of spending time, effort, resources and manpower on these processes.
2. It saves money but the quality of the services are at risk
When a job is outsourced, it is assigned to a group of people with the prerequisite skills set. This means that the people working on the job are experts who know what needs to be done, thus, reducing the chances of poor work quality.
3. Less management control over the specific task and results
Even if the job is outsourced, it doesn’t mean that clients have no control of the output or the outsourced staff. It is a standard among BPO firms to guarantee timely and specific deliverables ensuring that the integrity of the output is maintained and that the staff assigned perform at excellent levels at all times. Companies that outsource usually interface regularly to make sure that the quality of the work is sustained.
4. SMEs cannot benefit from outsourcing
While outsourcing seems to be done mostly by large companies, what many don’t realize is that small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) can benefit better from outsourcing. Hiring people will mean that resources are allocated for salaries, benefits, and other mandatory government payments. Outsourcing takes away the need to pay the required salaries as the fees paid to an outsourcing firm are based on a specific set of deliverables. Once the task is completed, the costs discontinue.
5. Outsourcing causes loss of jobs
BPOs cut down the workloads of an enterprise by accepting minor tasks, like for payroll and tax services among others. Instead of hiring people to work on these, a company may open other positions that will help them focus more on their business core. Furthermore, outsourcing opens up employment opportunities for people who prefer working on a per project basis.
Prople Inc. was established to assist local enterprises of any size. As one of the leading business processes outsourcing companies, it delivers proven, best-in-class methodologies and solutions to ensure their customers’ business stability and progress.
It is staffed by value-driven employees, such as accountants, auditors, project managers, business analysts, engineers and IT professionals, who are rich in adequate professional experiences that may help companies realize true benefits of outsourcing.
Overall, it aims to produce practical outputs including increase of efficiency, immediate start on new projects, control of capital costs, reduction of labor costs, maintaining the focus on the business core and preventing risks that threaten the success of enterprises, and these are what Prople, Inc. desires to provide.
For a complete list of Prople, Inc.’s services, kindly visit its website at https://www.propleinc.com/.
AXN Announces Fourth Golden Buzzer for Asia’s Got Talent Ahead of World Premiere on October 12
AXN announced today that there is an added twist in its latest season of Asia’s Got Talent: a fourth Golden Buzzer to be pushed by new show hosts Alan Wong and Justin Bratton.
The announcement comes ahead of the highly-anticipated Asia’s Got Talent Season 2 which premieres next Thursday, October 12 at 8:30pm on AXN.
The Golden Buzzer, a privilege typically reserved for celebrity judges, David Foster, Anggun and Jay Park, is pushed for an act deemed so incredible that it is sent straight through to the semi-finals for a closer shot at the grand prize of USD100,000. This season, the hosts and each judge will have the power to push the coveted Golden Buzzer only once during the first five episodes called the ‘judges’ auditions’.
“The Golden Buzzer is a life-changing and highly emotional moment on Asia’s Got Talent where viewers share in the journey of the act. Empowering the hosts to choose their favorite act adds an extra layer of excitement to the show. Many of our fans on the Asia’s Got Talent Facebook page requested for this to happen, so we’re thrilled to make the hosts’ Golden Buzzer a reality,” said Virginia Lim, Senior Vice President and Head of Content, Production and Marketing, Sony Pictures Television Networks, Asia.
In Season one of the hit-rated series, Filipino shadow dance group, El Gamma Penumbra, received Anggun’s Golden Buzzer and ultimately won the series. The new season of Asia’s Got Talent promises a bigger, bolder and greater variety of acts from 15 countries which includes a mesmerizing array of magic, dance, music and martial arts, all vying for the four Golden Buzzers.
Asia’s Got Talent Season 2 will premiere on Thursday, October 12, 2017 at 8:30pm on AXN. To follow the journey of this season’s Golden Buzzer acts, check out #AXNAsia, #AsiasGotTalent and #GoldenBuzzer.
Asia’s Got Talent is the 67th adaptation of the Guinness-World-Record-breaking hit “Got Talent” format, which was created by Simon Cowell’s Syco Entertainment and is co-produced by FremantleMedia. The “Got Talent” format is officially the most successful reality TV format in history and currently airs in 186 countries.
Asia’s Got Talent is supported by presenting sponsor Traveloka, the leading travel booking app for all flight and hotel needs; and sponsoring partner Great Eastern Life, the market leader in the conventional life insurance business and the largest life insurer in Malaysia by asset size.
Marina Bay Sands, Asia’s leading business, leisure and entertainment destination, is the official venue partner of Asia’s Got Talent.
@AsiasGotTalent / #AXNAsia / #AsiasGotTalent / #AsiasGotTalentAuditions
www.AXN-Asia.com/AsiasGotTalent
AXN is available on Cablelink Channel 38, Cignal Channel 121, Destiny Cable Channel 61, Dream Satellite TV Channel 20, G Sat Channel 51, and SKYCable Channel 49. AXN HD is available on SKYCable Channel 247.
The New YZF-R6: Refined, Redesigned, Remarkable
Yamaha Motor Philippines Inc. launches the latest addition in their R-Series Category and would make the R-World very much exciting, the new YZF-R6. This model has the next generation R-Series design and technology that encapsulates the essence of performance, style and function with its very own Racing DNA originated from the top of the line racing model. Having its unparalleled racetrack success, the new YZF-R6 is the perfect choice for amateur and professional racers alike.
You can feel the race bred soul with its powerful 599cc inline 4-cylinder, 16 Titanium valves DOHC F.I engine for a refined and smooth high-revving power. Featuring the Aerodynamic style with the next generation control, its YZF-R1 design style cowling with LED position lights & hidden headlights, Race style Analogue Tachometer with Digital Screen appeals to be sportier than ever.
This new beast also comes with a remarkable high-tech electronic system such as Yamaha’s Chip Controlled Intake (YCC-I) for a broader and more tractable powerband, a 6-mode Traction Control System (TCS) as well as a Quick Shifter System (QSS), ABS and D-Mode Adjustable engine power that will give you the ability to push even harder and ultimate control, while having the fully adjustable YZF-R1 type 43mm upside down front forks combined with rear shock and dual front discs for sharper handling and stronger braking.
The new YZF-R6 is available in Race Blu and Tech Black with an SRP of Php749,000 in all Yamaha Big Bike Shop.
Its time to dominate the road, on track or street.
YZF-R6 Technical Specifications
Liquid cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC,
Inline 4 cylinder, 16 Titanium Valves
67.0×42.5mm
87.1kW(118.4PS)/14,500rpm
61.7N・m(6.3kgf・m)/10500r/min
Starter System
Electric starter
Wet, multiple-disc, Slipper Clutch
Constant mesh, 6-speed
1-N-2-3-4-5-6
Primary/ Secondary Reduction Ratio
1st: 2.583, 2nd: 2.000, 3rd: 1.667, 4th : 1.444, 5th: 1.286, 6th: 1.150
Length X Width X Height
2040mm X 695mm X 1150mm
Curb Weight (with oil & full fuel tank)
Caster Angle
24°00′
Steering Angle
Minimum Turning Radius
Aluminum Delta Box
Front Suspension / Inner tube diameter
Upside Down Telescopic fork (Coil spring/Hydraulic damper) / 43.0mm
Link Type Monocross Suspension
Front Tire / Rim Size
120/70ZR17M/C (58W) Tubeless / 17M/C × MT3.50
Rear Tire / Rim Size
180/55ZR17M/C(73W) Tubeless / 17M/C × MT5.50
Wheel travel(Front/ Rear)
120mm / 120mm
Hydraulic dual disc brake (320mm)
Hydraulic single disc brake (220mm)
Headlight/ Auxiliary light/ Brake Light/
Tail Light/ Turn Signal Light (L/R)
Meter Panel
Digital Speedometer/ Analogue Tachometer/ Liquid Crystal Odometer / Liquid Crystal Trip Meter / Digital Water Temperature Meter / Digital Clock/ Fuel Consumption Indicator/
TCI (transistor controlled ignition)
YTZ7S / 12V,6.0Ah(10HR)
Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (YCC-T) system
The Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (YCC-T) system provides you with pinpoint accuracy and an unprecedented level of control to push yourself as you define speed. The precise throttle valve opening is calculated and intake volume is controlled in real time to give you the thrust exactly as you intended.
New Adjustable Traction Control System (TCS)
The new YZF-R6 is equipped with a 6-mode adjustable Traction Control System (TCS) that gives more confidence in various road conditions and provides freedom in a wide range of rider preferences. This state-of-the-art system modulates throttle opening, ignition timing and fuel volume seamlessly with minimal disruption to forward drive which is virtually unnoticeable by the rider.
New Selectable Drive Mode (D-Mode)
The 2017 YZF-R6 users are now given full flexibility to choose the ideal engine character for various riding situations. It is equipped with Yamaha’s D-Mode system which offers three throttle valve control maps (Standard Mode, “A-Mode, and “B-Mode”) with different throttle response settings for absolute adaptability in just one click.
Powerful New Brakes with Anti-Lock Braking System(ABS)
Sheer speed requires remarkable braking power. That’s the reason why the 2017 YZF-R6 inherits the braking prowess of the YZF-R1 with larger 320mm dual front disc brakes, matched to radial-mount four-piston calipers and a Nissin® radial-mount master cylinder. To top it all off, now it is equipped with ABS for maximum control as you decelerate in unfavorable road conditions.
Yamaha’s Chip Controlled Intake (YCC-I)
With a multitude of high-tech electronic systems, the YZF-R6 is the most sophisticated 600 supersport bike Yamaha has ever created. The YZF-R6 features Yamaha’s Chip Controlled Intake (YCC-I) which makes for a broader, more tractable powerband while contributing to optimum efficiency.
Upside Down Front Forks (USD)
The 2017 YZF-R6 is now even closer to YZF-R1 as it shares the same advanced KYB® front telescopic forks which are then specifically tuned. These 43mm Upside Down beasts ensure top of its class front-end feel and experience while offering maximum adjustability.
Quick Shift System (QSS)
The YZF-R6 bears all the characteristics of Yamaha’s thoroughbred R-Series DNA. At its very core is speed and precision control. And to help you push even harder is the Quick Shift System (QSS) which enables clutchless upshifts for your unlimited appetite for speed.
Bloggers That Share Fake News: You Give Blog a Bad Name!
There’s no such thing as absolute freedom, Mocha. Your freedom ends when it infringes on the rights of others. You can't separate your nonsense individual perspective, to your duty to serve the people.
Communications Assistant Secretary Margaux "Mocha" Uson says she is not required to be fair in her social media posts even after she entered government service because she is a blogger.
Opinion-based po ang blogging." says Mocha. But, Mocha dear, you're not just a mere blogger anymore. You're now an ASec. of the PCOO.
Saying "She's a victim of fake news" and then saying "I invoke my right to self-discrimination" is fairly consistent.
It’s very sad that Mocha, who allegedly spreads fake news, earns a lot more than the teachers who dedicate their lives to educate us.
As a blogger, I'm insulted by Mocha's assertion that bloggers make up facts.
Antonio Trillanes, Bam Aquino, Grace Poe and even Nancy Binay looked good when they were questioning Mocha. There were a lot of quotable quotes that emerged.
It's simple, really. Mocha is not a journalist, so therefore her articles are not news. Take them with a grain of salt. Be a smart reader. Articles written by bloggers like Mocha are like opinion pieces written by columnists. They are not news items. They can be biased.
Fake news is not just mere lying. It masquerades as truth by using and distorting a time-honored genre of truth-telling: journalism.
Mocha is a victim of fake news by mainstream media? That may be too hard to accept but there could be some truth to that statement too.
But are journalists really sharing real news? No matter how you look at it, everyone could never be in exception of being biased, and partisan to certain parties or ideals. Journalists or media also receive special perks, privileges, freebies, etc., when covering events or featuring certain brands. This is outside the advertising options available on traditional media.
The best example is when a certain brand made a raffle draw where all three reporters of the top TV networks won the main raffle prizes. I don't need to say that the raffle draws were rigged. It was very obvious.
Why are brands doing it, and why are media men accepting this culture? So both parties could get favors. Thus, the spread of "fake news" when "bribes" in the form of tokens or complimentary gifts, or even thanksgiving parties, are offered to media.
"Blogger and Journalist are entirely different. When you are a journalist it is a must to get both sides of the stories while as a blogger you are showing your perspective on the scenario. However each and every blogger should have the strong basis on their opinions. Fake news happens when a journalist or blogger twisted the story and/or showing some chunks of the reality to make it on their favor." - Justine Lee
How to avoid being a victim of fake news?
1) Check if the facts stated match with other reputable sources...
2) Don't fall to confirmation bias (if an article or statement supports your opinion, you don't bother fact checking it anymore)
3) Avoid "hyper-partisan" media because they tend to exaggerate their fanaticism towards their alliances
4) If you did not personally see it, always give it the benefit of the doubt
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Cosplay Mania 2017: Stressful Queues, Missed Meet and Greets, But Lots of Fun with Friends
First of all, Cosplay Mania has been a blast for me. Regardless of the hardships I encountered on both days of the event. It amazed me how star studded the event was. Inviting seiyuus we all love and cosplayers we go gaga all over. The Japanese singers are all fantastic. Even though I only knew a few of the songs they performed, I kept my head banging, my hand keep swaying and I keep on shouting cheers till my voice got hoarse. Even the creators of Yuri on Ice was a huge bomb to me, having them tell us the secret behind the success of the anime and we even got the chance to see something exclusive. In these part of the event I wish for them to keep up the good work. Having good relations to other countries especially Japan, the home of our beloved anime, should be maintained and nourished.
But because this has been a huge event, there have been problems that arise. Day 1 was hell. Yep, that was one way to describe it. I usually arrive early for events like this but I made sure that on day 1 I will arrive much earlier than my usual. I came around 7AM but the line was already long. At first I didn't mind that. It's the usual, I would say. But after they opened the door for entry and an hour already passed but my line didn't even budge a bit.
Most of the people lining up are already complaining because its really hot. I'm starting to get irritated too because a girl suddenly cut in between me and the group in front of me, thinking that it was the end of the line. Good thing she realized her mistake and looked for the end of the line. That made me ask why. Why is the line so messy and taking forever to move.
I've been attending cons for years and I even arrive late at some but the usual was 12 in the afternoon most of the line are already gone and most of congoers are already having a blast inside. But on day 1, the show already started but the attendees are still outside. I missed the first sched for the meet and greet.
At around 12 noon I am almost desperate because the Yuri on Ice panel will start at 1 and I'm still outside. 12:30 and I finally entered the SMX only to be shoved to another line for the tyvek. Then it dawned to me what is making the line move slower. It was this tyvek system that they changed. That instead of doing it in the entrance itself so that the congoers are directly entering the con area, they made another line for the tyvek booth. Its like we need to line up four times for the entrance itself. Other says that we shouldn't complain about the long line because its the usual on events like this. Yes its true. But will you complain if you fall in line at SM mega's staircase and SMX hallways with aircons and away from the glaring sun. Nope. Its the heat that they made us to endure that triggered our hot headedness.
All in all the staff was unprepared for the crowd. To think that they should have an estimate of attendees based on the pre-selling of ticket they made. We even bought the ticket earlier so it would spare us the line for the ticket buying but it all became meaningless.
After the hellish and chaotic line I finally got inside and started enjoying myself. Strolling from booth to booth, buying merchs. Watched the Yuri on Ice Panel, the only reason why I attended day 1 and then stroll again to get pics from cosplayers. When all of a sudden I encountered the best moment of my life, I turn around and there she is, my idol, Hikarin.
Starstruck and dumbfounded I didn't notice her anxiousness... She was stuck in the crowd on her way to the stage and even her assistants are clueless as to what to do. Another evidence of unpreparedness. Then I heard one of the fans says that Hikarin was sad because no one was buying for her meet and greet. Sorry to Hikarin and other guests but your fans are all trapped outside. And the most astonishing thing is Hikarin was the first to apologise to her fans that waited outside and didn't even get the chance to see her. Take note, not the Cosplay Mania organizers who first apologise but the guest themselves even though they have nothing to do in managing the event. How was that?
I gave another chance for day 2. I even arrived an hour earlier than yesterday. Luckily, my friends will all be attending so there is someone I could talk to while waiting. I hold a gold ticket and our line moved faster than yesterday so its a thumbs up for that improvement. They added another lane for the VIP and Gold which is good too because on day 1, silver moved faster than the VIP lane that made people more irritated. I also noticed the increase of police and security personnel.
On day 1 a friend of mine lost her iPhone and others among her line lost their phone too. The lack of security is alarming so I'm glad they added it up on day 2. I enjoyed taking pictures with my friend and waited for the guests meet and greet.
But alas we weren't able to attend because we don't have a stub that they did not explain how to get or where to get. I heard that you need to buy something for the meet and greet. We all thought that it was already part of the gold ticket since its one of the halls we could access. They did not explain that part thoroughly so our efforts in lining up are in vain. We even missed the Seiyuu's stage appearance for that. We even lined up an hour earlier for the Jam concert.
When we got inside, they imposed the rule of no photo and video recording, same as their other program. Me and my friends enjoyed the Jam. Singing, waving, dancing along with the guests singers. But what annoyed me is that, one of the organizer will walk in front of us every minute waving the signboard saying no photo and video recording. Its really disturbing how we are in the height of jam and they will appear in front of us. They could have make it every after song or the in between rest of the singers. I know they really want to be strict for the guests sake but they could have done it better. Its not only the guest that are important, the fans too waited for this moment for a long time not just to be pissed by their crappy management. In short if not for my friends sharing the same pain as me, I would have felt the same way as day 1.
Yes the Cosplay Mania is the best. What they offer, the guests they brought and how they presented them to us are the best. But how they treated the fans and congoers are the worst.
Written by Ailene Amihan (Hikari Kaze)
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Neil Johnson
Head Instructor of White Crane Fighting Arts,
Graded in China, 7th Duan Chinese Wushu Association 2017
Endorsed and performed at the Putian Southern Shaolin Temple 2017
Five times gold medallist and over all points cup winner
Fuzhou martial arts national competition 2013.
Appointed in China, Master of Shaolin Dog Boxing,
Director & Head International Instructor of the Dishu Boxing Training Centre of Fujian China 2010.
Master Zai Pei Lin awarding in China, 7th Duan to Neil Johnson 8th February 2017
Neil Johnson has been involved in martial arts most of his life, starting his martial arts training in Brighton doing Judo and Karate. His Grandfather, John James Hill, died at 71 having done 51 years of Judo, truly an inspiration to him. As with most children of a young age, there were so many things in life to try, his martial arts training came to an end after a few years.
It was not until Neil was 25 years old that he started learning the Tiger Crane Kungfu and Shuang Yang soft style crane boxing system from the Fujian province. It was then that he really immersed himself into the Chinese arts. Neil believes that traditional martial arts have so much more to them than what people can ever imagine and it is this depth and interest that has gripped Neil ever since.
Neil’s dedication is shown, in his skills after studying under some of the very top white crane masters in China during his first thirteen years training. In 2005, Neil passed his 3rd Duan in Yong Chun County under the Chinese Wushu Association. He will be going to Fujian province, in China again this February as he has for the last sixteen years with some of his top senior students to continue furthering his research and knowledge of the Hu Hè Shuang Xing Quan (Tiger Crane Combination) and Dishu Quan (Dog style ground technique).
It is known that Master Ang Lian Huat, the founder to the core system of White Crane Fighting Arts, had some knowledge of the Nun style DiShu Quan but much of this knowledge has been lost over the years; Neil has been researching the style under Master Zai Pei Lin’s tuition (7 Duan) he is officially advisor to the WCFA club. Neil was accepted to open classes in DiShu Quan in the UK, after our club’s very successful visit to China in 2008.
In 2011, Neil was successful in arranging Master ZaiPei Lin to visit England, to teach the WCFA members. This is quite an achievement as it is hard for China’s national treasures to get a visa to leave in case they don’t come back. Many clubs have tried but failed to get top masters to teach outside of China.
In 2012, Neil Johnson was made Master of Dishu Quan, Director and Head International Coach of the overseas division of the Dishu Boxing Training Centre of Fujian China. It was a very proud moment for him, eight years after his last grading in China. Many performances were done to other boxers and also involved two governmental meetings.
Finally, a demonstration was held at the old house of Grand Master Chen YiJiu in the XiYuan Village. The local Fuzhou TV station covered the story and made a 3rd documentary on our clubs visits to China. This has been instrumental in helping the local people to start training in Dishu Quan, spreading the art for the future.
In the first ten years, Neil won every year competing in full contact SanDa competitions twice a year, apart from the one time when he dislocated his knee the day before, but still entered the event, just for the fun. As his training developed he also started winning the open hand forms, and weapons categories. He has performed in China on numerous trips to Fujian provinces. One of the highlights of Neil’s early martial arts experience was demonstrating in the Yong Chun white crane festival in 2003. People from all over China, Taiwan, Malaysia and Europe all sharing a common passion demonstrating their art, showed just how much dedication they had put into their style or systems of kung fu.
The trips to China made Neil realise just how far he still had to go to improve on his skills and to better the level of martial arts in Europe. Neil’s aim as an instructor in martial arts is to teach real traditional kungfu and Taichi that is not only good for an individual’s health, but also is an effective martial art. Neil believes that a lot of martial arts now days in the western world are too sport oriented and can often forget what martial arts were developed for. In the past kungfu had no rules and so was not about scoring points; it was about survival. Competitions and gradings in this day and age can provide an excellent way for a student to push themselves on to the next goal and provide them with the mental focus to progress but ultimately, you are training against your own self motivation.
Neil has always been good at making things with his hands and has been described as the perfect thing to take on a deserted island if stranded for survival, but as a dyslexic, he is most proud of studying the other side of martial arts and that is learning Mandarin Chinese over the last six years. In 2012, it was the first year he went to China with out the need for a translator during training other than to help with the details of old stories and some of the obscure names of all the movements. Getting around and ordering food is no longer a problem.
Neil also makes most of the Shaolin weapons himself in the traditional ways at home giving him a better understanding of the balance required for the individual students needs. A lot of people start martial arts thinking about fitness or how to look after themselves but little do they realise, it helps to develop a lot more than that; It can help the mind, body, self defence, flexibility, awareness, self control, confidence, respect, social life, posture and stop asthma …to name but a few. Neil believes that if he can pass his knowledge on and help people better their own lives on the way, he has achieved his goal and is able to do what he loves to do as a life style.
White Crane Fighting Arts teach the three arts, Shuang Yang Bai Hè Rou Ruan Quan (Soft Crane Boxing), Hu Hè Shuang Xing Quan (Tiger & Crane Combination) and Dishu Quan (Ground technique kungfu). All three styles fundamentally work well together, helping the stylist to become a rounded martial artist.
So if you would like to learn under a full time traditional instructor, call Neil Johnson or send him an E-mail on the details listed below.
Wushu Duan Certificate.
Neil Johnson Graded 3rd Duan under the Chinese Wushu Association 2005.
Neil Johnson Master of Dishu Quan
Neil Johnson Master of Dishu Quan & Head International coach of Dishu Quan
Received this letter of achievement from the Chinese government, upon recommendation of 7th Duan Master Zai Pei Lin on the 2012 trip to China.
Dishu Boxing certificate
Neil Johnson received this certificate that authorizes him to officially impart DiShu Boxing in the United Kingdom from Master ZaiPei Lin on the 2016 trip to China.
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Home Community Free lunch gives pupils taste of what’s to come
Free lunch gives pupils taste of what’s to come
Hot lunch...Tuturau pupils (from left) Piper Devery (6), D'Larney McDiarmid and Amity Brinsdon (both 7) try the butter chicken which was the first meal served at the school as part of the Government's free school lunch programme.PHOTO: SANDY EGGLESTON
Despite the axiom that there is no such thing as a free lunch, that is just what Tuturau Primary School pupils tucked into on Wednesday.
The lunch was a trial run for next term when the school will have free lunches daily.
The school would be one of 18 joining the Government’s free school lunch programme by term three as a result of increased funding allocated towards the programme in this year’s Budget.
Acting Principal Diane Walker said she was pleased with the new policy.
“I think it’s great,” Mrs Walker said.
When children were all eating the same food there was a kind of positive peer pressure at play, making them less likely to be picky, she said.
“It encourages kids to eat better.”
She thought the policy was especially important in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic to ease the burden on parents.
“Families are at all different stages of employment or lack of employment.”
“It’s one less thing for parents to do.”
The trial meal was a butter chicken with hidden vegetables.
It had gone down well with the 31 pupils at Tuturau.
“They all loved it.”
Pupil Amity Brinsdon said the meal was “yum”.
“The chicken is delicious.”
The lunches would be cooked by charitable programme Koha Kai in Mataura each day before being driven 10 minutes down the road to the school.
There was an emphasis on healthy food and Koha Kai would use some vegetables it had grown itself.
The impact of the free lunches on pupils would be evaluated.
“The Government will be assessing energy and engagement,” Mrs Walker said.
Education Minister Chris Hipkins said that the programme was being extended in stages.
“Around 200,000 more children [will] get a free lunch by the end of 2021,” Mr Hipkins said.
“A full stomach makes all the difference to a child’s learning.”
Tuturau School would not be the only school in the area to benefit from the programme, with Mataura School also taking part from term three.Sports ShoesNike Air Max 270
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James Mahon1
Child of James Mahon
John Joseph Mahon+1 b. c 1840
John Orde1
Child of John Orde
Reverend John Orde+1 b. 28 Oct 1770, d. 13 Jan 1850
[S5872] Peter Bell, "re: Mainwaring Family," e-mail message to Darryl Roger LUNDY (101053), 14 February 2012. Hereinafter cited as "re: Mainwaring Family."
Diana Lees1
Diana Lees is the daughter of Thomas Orde Lees and Charity Armit.2
Charlotte Lees1
Last Edited=28 Oct 2013
Charlotte Lees was the daughter of Sir John Lees, 1st Bt. and Mary Cathcart.2 She died, unmarried.1
Colonel Thomas Lyster1
Colonel Thomas Lyster lived at Grange, County Roscommon, Ireland.1
Child of Colonel Thomas Lyster
Sophia Lyster+2 d. 11 Aug 1874
Sophia Lyster1
F, #496396, d. 11 August 1874
Sophia Lyster was the daughter of Colonel Thomas Lyster.2 She married Rev. Sir Harcourt Lees, 2nd Bt., son of Sir John Lees, 1st Bt. and Mary Cathcart, in October 1812.1 She died on 11 August 1874.1
From October 1812, her married name became Lees.
Children of Sophia Lyster and Rev. Sir Harcourt Lees, 2nd Bt.
George Cholmondeley Lees+2 d. 15 Mar 1896
Mary Lees2 d. 7 Aug 1895
unknown daughter Lees1
Sir John Lees, 3rd Bt.+2 b. 31 Dec 1816, d. 19 Jun 1892
Major Thomas Ellis Bridgeman Lees2 b. 1818, d. 19 Sep 1865
Maj.-Gen. William Nassau Lees2 b. 1826, d. 9 Mar 1889
Sir John Lees, 3rd Bt.1
M, #496397, b. 31 December 1816, d. 19 June 1892
Sir John Lees, 3rd Bt. was born on 31 December 1816.1 He was the son of Rev. Sir Harcourt Lees, 2nd Bt. and Sophia Lyster.2 He married Maria Charlotte Sullivan, daughter of Edward Richard Sullivan and Eliza Maria Caldwell, on 29 May 1839.2 He died on 19 June 1892 at age 75.1
He succeeded as the 3rd Baronet Lees, of Black Rock, co. Dublin [U.K., 1804] on 7 March 1852.1
Children of Sir John Lees, 3rd Bt. and Maria Charlotte Sullivan
Bellina Alicia Maria Lees2 d. 26 Jan 1858
Mary Charlotte Cooke Lees2 d. 8 May 1935
Hester Elizabeth Ida Lees2 d. 12 May 1928
Sir Harcourt James Lees, 4th Bt.+2 b. 24 Apr 1840, d. 23 Mar 1917
Colonel Arthur Richard Lees+2 b. 18 Jul 1842, d. 15 Sep 1887
James Lillyman Martell Lees2 b. 11 Jun 1845, d. 11 Dec 1870
Nora Frances Sophia Lees+2 b. c 1850, d. 26 Jan 1902
George Cholmondeley Lees1
M, #496398, d. 15 March 1896
George Cholmondeley Lees was the son of Rev. Sir Harcourt Lees, 2nd Bt. and Sophia Lyster.2 He married, firstly, Georgina Colclough, daughter of General George Washington Colclough and Elizabeth Anne Wellesley, in 1840.1 He married, secondly, Antoinette du Gué, daughter of Benjamin Louis du Gué, in 1886.1 He died on 15 March 1896.1
He gained the rank of officer in the 61st Regiment.1
Child of George Cholmondeley Lees and Georgina Colclough
Alice Lees2 d. 28 May 1925
General George Washington Colclough1
General George Washington Colclough married Elizabeth Anne Wellesley, daughter of Richard Wellesley.
He gained the rank of Major in the 33rd Regiment.1
Child of General George Washington Colclough and Elizabeth Anne Wellesley
Georgina Colclough+2 d. 1843
Georgina Colclough1
Georgina Colclough was the daughter of General George Washington Colclough and Elizabeth Anne Wellesley.2 She married George Cholmondeley Lees, son of Rev. Sir Harcourt Lees, 2nd Bt. and Sophia Lyster, in 1840.1 She died in 1843.1
Her married name became Lees.
Child of Georgina Colclough and George Cholmondeley Lees
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COVID-19 Update – January 8, 2021
With the entire province remaining in the Red (Critical) level on the pandemic emergency response system as of Saturday, January 9, 2021, 4-H Manitoba clubs are reminded to follow the provincial health guidelines. All 4-H in-person activities are suspended until further notice.
4-H Manitoba Offers New Virtual Club
4-H Manitoba members who want to enroll in a club this year because theirs didn’t reorganize due to COVID-19, please consider joining the new Keystone 4-H Virtual Club. Programming will include an Art and Crafts Series, Cloverbud Series, Beef Series and Equine Series. Please watch for more information in upcoming eZines and on social media. … Read more »
4-H Manitoba Scholarships – Apply by February 12, 2021
Please click here for complete details and application criteria for the 20 scholarships available this year. Please note: Applications for the newly announced 4-H Manitoba Scholarship Program, funded by the Province, will be available in the coming weeks. Watch emails and eZine for more information.
Manitoba 4-H Council Resolutions – Deadline to Submit is March 1, 2021
Please see this PDF for information on how to submit a resolution: 2020-21 Resolution submissions must be received by March 1, 2021. Please click here for resolution form.
Manitoba 4-H Council Board Nominations – Deadline to submit is March 1, 2021
If you are interested in joining the M4HC Board of Directors or wish to nominate an individual, nominations must be submitted to the office by March 1, 2021. For nominations form click here or further information on the nomination process, click here.
Youth Safety at 4-H in Canada Training Sessions
Additional training dates for 4-H Leaders have been scheduled this month and in February. Sessions are scheduled on Zoom for January 11 at 7 p.m., January 20 at 7 p.m., February 3 at 7 p.m., February 8 at 7 p.m., February 11 at 7 p.m., February 13 at 1 p.m. and February 25 at 7… Read more »
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Raanta stops 36 shots, Coyotes keep Ovechkin at 698 goals
Antti Raanta stopped 36 shots to keep Alex Ovechkin at 698 career goals, Phil Kessel scored early in the third period, and the Arizona Coyotes beat the Washington Capitals 3-1
By JOHN MARSHALL AP Sports Writer
Washington Capitals defenseman Nick Jensen (3) and Arizona Coyotes right wing Clayton Keller, right, battle for the puck during the first period of an NHL hockey game Saturday, Feb. 15, 2020, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)
GLENDALE, Ariz. -- Alex Ovechkin tested Antti Raanta early with a hard slap shot from his customary power-play spot in the left circle. He tried to slip a quick release past Arizona's goalie late and tried shots from all angles, 17 in all.
One got through — and hit the post. Raanta stopped everything else that was on net, leaving Ovechkin still short of becoming the eighth player in NHL history with 700 career goals.
Raanta stopped 36 shots to keep Ovechkin at 698 career goals, Phil Kessel scored early in the third period, and the Coyotes beat the Washington Capitals 3-1 on Saturday night.
“I wasn't thinking about that too much, but obviously don't want to be in those highlights for 700,” Raanta said. “One post, a couple of lucky saves and you take those.”
Raanta was sharp all night after giving up three goals in a loss to Ottawa on Thursday night, making some tough saves to leave Ovechkin without a goal in four straight games for the first time this season.
Ovechkin has been down this road before; he went three games without a goal before notching No. 600 with his wife in the stands in 2018.
“He's getting himself in some good spots and that's really the least of my concerns,” Capitals coach Todd Reirden said. “To me it's more about our team helping him out and producing a little more.”
The Coyotes played a solid game in front of Raanta, pushing Ovechkin and the Capitals to the outside most of the night, a day after flying back from Ottawa.
Christian Dvorak scored his 18th goal in the second period and Kessel redirected a shot past Braden Holtby on a power play in the third. Lawson Crouse capped it with an empty-net goal.
“If we start trying to poke and go and play offense, we're just that type of team,” Coyotes coach Rick Tocchet said. “We just have to play this way and embrace it. That's who we are and that's what we did.”
Holtby stopped 27 shots and Carl Hagelin scored for Washington.
The Capitals had their eighth multi-goal comeback on Thursday, rallying from a 2-0 hole to beat Colorado 3-2.
Ovechkin failed to score against the Avalanche, leaving him at 698 goals since scoring three in the third period against the Los Angeles Kings on Feb. 4.
He had some good early chances against Arizona.
Raanta stopped Ovechkin's slap shot on a power play in the opening four minutes and the post stopped him from getting No. 699 in the second period. Raanta made another tough save on a quick-release shot by Ovechkin after Kessel's goal.
“He's a guy who can get a shot off at any angle. I've never seen anything like it,” Tocchett said. “Raants made some big saves.”
Both goalies were sharp early, turning away numerous good scoring chances in a scoreless first period.
Raanta stopped Ovechkin on the early power play and slid over to stop T.J. Oshie on a 2-on-1. Holtby was just as good, sprawling for a kick save on a shot by Derek Stepan and another close-range chance by Dvorak.
Dvorak finally got one past Holtby shortly after that, gathering the puck with his back to the goalie, turning and slipping it through his pads.
Hagelin tied it late in the second period, punching in a rebound after Raanta did the splits to stop a shot by Travis Boyd.
Kessel put the Coyotes up 2-1 on a power play early in the third period, redirecting Jacob Chychrun's shot for his 13th of the season.
Raanta turned away a flurry of shots in the final two minutes after Washington pulled Holtby.
“He made some good stops, Raanta was pretty good, but we had a lot of one and done,” Hagelin said. “We had some good looks, but we didn't have enough sustained pressure.”
NOTES: Coyotes D Jordan Oesterle played his 200th career NHL game. ... Capitals C Evgeny Kuznetsov missed his second straight game with an upper-body injury. ... The Coyotes have scored in the second period in 11 straight games. ... Oshie limped off after being hit by a shot in front of Arizona's goal, but came back out for his next shift.
Washington: At Vegas Golden Knights on Monday.
Arizona: Hosts New York Islanders on Monday.
More AP NHL: www.apnews.com/NHL and www.twitter.com/AP—Sports
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Trump to be 'special guest' during House GOP Immigration Conference
President Trump will be a "special guest" at a House GOP Member conference.
ByMeridith McGraw
Trump tries to blame Democrats for policy of separating migrant kids and parents
As the family-separation policy sparks widespread criticism, two new bills on immigration are to be heard on the House floor this coming week.
Evan Vucci/AP, FILE
President Trump will be making a rare trip up Pennsylvania Avenue next week as a "special guest" at an additional House GOP Member Conference meeting to talk about immigration, a GOP source confirmed.
News of the meeting at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday comes just one day after the president created a state of confusion on Capitol Hill after he dismissed one of the immigration measures in his spontaneous interview with FOX & Friends on the White House North Lawn. Trump's comments sent lawmakers into a last-minute tizzy as they prepare for potential votes in the coming week.
"I wouldn't sign the moderate bill. I need a bill that gives this country tremendous border security. I have to have that," Trump said.
President Donald Trump walks to an interview on the North Lawn of the White House, June 15, 2018, in Washington.
A White House official said the president had misunderstood the question, and later the White House issued a statement to clear up the confusion.
“The President fully supports both the Goodlatte bill and the House leadership bill. In this morning's interview, he was commenting on the discharge petition in the House, and not the new package. He would sign either the Goodlatte or the leadership bill,” said White House principal deputy press secretary Raj Shah.
The House may take up an immigration bill next week although nothing is on the schedule yet.
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Wave of Energy Auctions to Trigger $8.2 Billion in Brazil Spending
Vanessa Dezem, Bloomberg Markets
Brazil is expecting to see about 27 billion reais ($8.2 billion) invested into the country’s energy infrastructure over the next six years, the result of an end-of-year flurry of auctions aimed at boosting its electricity capacity.
Energy companies won contracts to build about 5,000 kilometers (3,100 miles) of new power lines and more than 4.5 gigawatts of power plants, in a trio of auctions over the past week.
The events led to record low power prices, with strong competition dragging one auction out to five hours. They reflect both growing demand for power and increasing confidence as Brazil’s economy starts to recover from the worst recession in a generation, according to Luiz Augusto Barroso, head of the government’s Energy Research Agency, EPE.
“Brazil has once again became an interesting investment hub for large-scale investments,” he said.
Brazil will end 2017 with power consumption levels similar to the ones from 2014, mainly due to a decline in industrial production. That’s expected to increase next year, as Brazil’s gross domestic product is forecast to expand by more than 2 percent, and almost 3 percent in 2021. As a result, electricity consumption is anticipated to swell 3.7 percent from 2017 to 2021, according to EPE estimates.
“Brazil’s electric sector has become an oasis for investors,” said Reive dos Santos, director of the country’s power regulator Aneel.
International energy companies dominated the power-line auction on Friday. After long lines to enter Sao Paulo’s B3 exchange where the event was held, France’s Engie SA, India’s Sterlite Technologies Ltd. and Neoenergia SA — majority-owned by Spain’s Iberdrola SA — were among companies that won the right to build transmission lines at prices averaging 40 percent below ceiling values set by regulators.
The auction will spur 8.75 billion reais in spending to build power lines crossing 10 states, mainly in the northeast.
“The power-line auction showed investors’ confidence,” Brazil’s President Michel Temer said on Twitter. “More than 17,000 new jobs will be created directly and consumers will save billions of reais over 30 years.”
Solar and wind power stood out in auctions Monday and Wednesday for new power plants. A total of 574 megawatts of new solar farms and 1,387 megawatts of new wind parks won contracts to sell electricity, as the government seeks to increase installed clean-energy capacity by 19 gigawatts by 2026 to diversify the local grid.
The auctions were the first in two years for wind and solar developers. The government canceled two auctions in 2016 as the recession curbed electricity demand. That put the brakes on the nascent solar industry and stifled the wind industry’s supply chain.
With pent-up demand, the events were competitive, dragging down prices for solar and wind. Solar was sold at an average price of 145.68 reais a megawatt-hour on Monday, while wind developers won contracts at an average of 98.62 reais per megawatt-hour on Wednesday, both record lows.
“Brazil has gotten onto the radar of countries that are buying renewables for prices below $40 a megawatt-hour,” said Luiz Barroso, president at EPE. “Prices we’ve seen today are in line with the ones seen in the rest of the world.”
“Wind technology is improving — there are new machines with better capacity factors,” said Marcos Meireles, founder of Brazilian energy company Rio Energy. “The Brazilian wind market is more mature and Brazil has a better macroeconomic scenario. All these factors push wind power prices down.”
Sustainable Debt Breaks Annual Record Despite Covid-19 Challenges
After Attracting a Record $32 Billion from Abroad in 2019, Clean Energy in Emerging Markets Endures a Rough 2020
More Gender Diversity on Corporate Boards Makes for Better Climate Governance and Innovation
Record Month Shoots Green Bonds Past Trillion-Dollar Mark
McCrone: Don’t Get Euphoric – Risks Yet For World Energy Transition
Colossal Six Months for Offshore Wind Support Renewable Energy Investment in First Half of 2020
Well Built Green Stimulus Packages Can Revitalize Economies, Help the Climate
Falling Clean Energy Costs Can Provide Opportunity to Boost Climate Action in COVID-19 Recovery Packages
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roots – how do we see ourselves spatially
Posted on November 2, 2011 by alan
I was just reading the chapter on Benedict Anderson in “Key Thinkers on Space and Place”1. Anderson forged the concept of a national imagination, the way nations are as much, or more, a construct of socio-cultural imaginings than physical topography or legal/political sovereignty.
However, this made me wonder whether this conception itself was very culturally specific, to what extent do people relate to nation as opposed to other areas.
I was reminded particularly of a conversation with, the much missed, Pierro Mussio. He explained to me the distinct nature of Italian cultural identity, which tends to focus on regional and local identity before national identity, partly because Italy itself is quite young as a nation state (a mere 150 years in a country which sees itself in terms of millennia). There is even a word “campanilismo”, which is literally relating to the “bell tower” (campanile) in a town, meaning one’s primary loyalties lie to that bell tower, that town, that community.
How do you see yourself? Are you British or Geordie, French or Parisian, American or New Yorker?
I know I see myself as ‘Welsh’. Wales is part of Britain, but my Britishness is secondary to Welshness. I was born and brought up in Bangor Street, Roath Park, Cardiff, but again while the street, area and city are foci of nostalgia, it is the Welshness which seems central. For Fiona she is Cumbrian (rather than Wetheral, English or British), Steve who is visiting is British, but says his brother would say Scottish, despite both having spent equal amounts of time in Scotland whilst growing up and since.
I asked people on Twitter and got a variety of answers2, most quite broad:
“I always think English rather than British but I don’t have a more specific area to identify with.”
“I think I primarily think of myself as both “Brit” & “northerner”. Lancastrian when differentiating myself from Yorkshire lot!”
“in decreasing granularity I’m a Devoner (south, of course!), west country-er, English, British, European, World-ean.”
Some less clear:
“I’m confused specially. I am Coloradan and American by birth, but feel more at home in England, and miss Scotland.”
“ooh, complicated. I’m British but not English. that’s as specific as I get.”
The last perhaps particularly interesting in its focus on what he is not!
Obviously the way we see ourselves varies.
The choice of a ‘level of granularity’ for location reminds me a little of the way in which we have some sort of typical level in a classification hierarchy (I think Lakoff writes about this); for example you can say “look at that bird”, but not “look at that mammal”, you have to say “look at that dog” or “look at that cat”. This also varies culturally including subcultures such as dog breeders – saying “look at that dog” in Crufts would hardy sound natural.
Some cities have specific words to refer to their natives: Glaswegian, Geordie, Londoner; others do not – I was brought up in Cardiff, but Cardiffian sounds odd. Does the presence of a word (Cumbrian, Welsh) make you more likely to see yourselves in those terms, or is it more that it is that, where cities have forged a strong sense of belonging, words naturally emerge … I sense a Sapir-Whorf moment!
Now-a-days this is even more contested as loyalties and identities can be part of networked communities that cut across national and topographical boundaries. In some way these new patterns of connection reinforce those focusing on human relations rather than physical space as defining countries and communities, but of course in far newer ways.
However, it also made me think of those parts of the world where there are large numbers of people with problematic statehood. There is how we see ourselves and how states see us. We tend to define democracy in terms of citizenship, and laud attempts, such as the Arab Spring, that give power to the people … but where ‘people’ means citizens. In Bahrain the Shite majority are citizens and therefore their views should be considered in terms of democracy, whereas the migrant workers in Libya fleeing the rebels in the early days of the recent Libyan war, or the Palestinians in Kuwait during the first Gulf War were not citizens and therefore marginalised.
Defining citizenship then becomes one of the most powerful methods of control. This has been used to powerful effect in Estonia leaving some who had lived the country for fifty years effectively stateless, and, while not leaving people stateless, in the UK new rules for electoral registration could leave up to 10 million, principally the young and the poor, voteless.
In the days of the nation state those with loyalties not tied to geography have always been problematic: Gypsies, Jews before the establishment of Israel, the various Saharan nomad trades. Many of these have been persecuted and continue to suffer across the world, and yet paradoxically in a networked world it seems possible that pan-national identity may one day become the norm.
I’ve got 1st edition, but 2nd edition recently come out.[back]
Many thanks for those who Tweeted responses.[back]
This entry was posted in academic, books, political by alan. Bookmark the permalink.
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Desecrate the cities...and desecrate civilization
Mohammad Ali Atassi
The ruling clique in Syria has always evinced a strong and neurotic animosity toward the urban centers of the country, with special emphasis on the cities of bilad As-sham. Throughout the junta’s long reign and domination of the land, it exhibited hostility toward the city while at the same time rebelling against the essence of the city itself. A truly modern concept of the city requires certain indispensable components: ...
Read more about Desecrate the cities...and desecrate civilization
Assad's Prisons
Elie Chalala
Read more about Assad's Prisons
"The Earthquake of Houla"-- Reading Adonis
Adonis’ controversial writings on the Syrian revolution have ensured that his critics consistently mention that many people hate him. Yet, even so, there remains a big difference between his critics and his “haters.” A large number of Arab and Syrian intellectuals, artists and scholars have denounced the threats of physical harm to Adonis featured on some new media venues ...
Read more about "The Earthquake of Houla"-- Reading Adonis
Let Salameh Kaileh Go Free!
Read more about Let Salameh Kaileh Go Free!
No Literary Awards or Medals from Tyrant!
Read more about No Literary Awards or Medals from Tyrant!
Silencing the Singer
A day after he had sang in protest in the square of his hometown, Ibrahim Kashoush was found dead, floating in the Orontes River (Al Asi). The fate of Ibrahim Kashoush expresses in the simplest terms the anger that has been driving Syrians in almost every corner of the country onto the streets and in front of the bullets of the security forces.
Read more about Silencing the Singer
Celebrated Iraqi Archeologist Dies at 71
Selma al-Radi, the Iraqi archaeologist best known for her role in restoring
Read more about Celebrated Iraqi Archeologist Dies at 71
From the Victimizer’s View: “Lebanon”
About Films
Michael Teague
I recently saw the film “Lebanon” when it was playing at the West Los Angeles Nuart.
Read more about From the Victimizer’s View: “Lebanon”
Syria: Open Sesame
A spate of recent articles in The New York Times popularized the notion that Syria is “opening up” and that an effort is being made to somehow “liberalize” society.
Considering the long and brutal track record of the Assad regimes, especially the Machiavellian tactics to which both father and son have resorted in order to retain power, there is ample reason to question the sincerity of such reports. It behooves us to take a closer look at the premises of these articles, and ask whether they offer solid evidence that this new “opening up” is genuine, and to what extent, if at all, it is taking place.
Read more about Syria: Open Sesame
Lebanon Takes Center Stage at Avignon Theater Festival
Read more about Lebanon Takes Center Stage at Avignon Theater Festival
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Features of Childhood Acute Myeloid Leukemia in Iran: a Report from Double Center Study
Azim Mehrvar Department of Pediatric Hematology Oncology, MAHAK s’ Pediatric Cancer Treatment and Research Center, Army University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran.
Mohammad Saeid Rahiminejad Department of Pediatric Hematology Oncology, Children’s Medical Center, Tehran, Iran.
Amir Abbas Hedayati Asl Department of Pediatric Hematology Oncology, MAHAK s’ Pediatric Cancer Treatment and Research Center, Azad University of Medical Science, Qom Branch, Qom, Iran.
Maryam Tashvighi Department of Pediatric Hematology Oncology, MAHAK s’ Pediatric Cancer Treatment and Research Center, MAHAK Hospital, Tehran, Iran.
Mohammad Faranoush Department of Pediatric Hematology Oncology, MAHAK s’ Pediatric Cancer Treatment and Research Center, Iran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran.
Mardawig Alebouyeh Department of Pediatric Hematology Oncology, MAHAK s’ Pediatric Cancer Treatment and Research Center, Azad University of Medical Science, Qom Branch, Qom, Iran.
Leili Kuchakzadeh Department of Pediatric Hematology Oncology, Children’s Medical Center, Tehran, Iran.
Asghar Ramyar Department of Pediatric Hematology Oncology, Children’s Medical Center, Tehran, Iran.
Javad Sabery nejad Department of Pediatrics, Army University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran.
Narjes Mehrvar Cancer Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran.
Acute myeloblastic leukemia, Malignancy, Survival
Acute Myeloblastic Leukemia is one of the important malignancies in children. For better managing the prognosis of this disease, there should be enough information about common features of this malignancy. The aim of this study was to evaluate these common features in children with Acute Myeloblastic Leukemia. A total of 104 eligible children less than 15-year-old have been referred from 2007-2011 to two referral centers for childhood malignancies. Basic epidemiological information recorded in checklists for each individual. Analyzes have been done by SPSS version 22. Out of patients, 57 cases were males (54.8%). The male/female ratio was 1.2. The mean age of patients was 6.5 ± 4.3 years. The majority subtypes of patients were M3, M4, non-M3, and M2, respectively. The common molecular abnormalities were t (15;17) and inv (16). Of patients, 19.2% had an early relapse. The mean age of relapse in patients was 6.7 ± 3.9 years. Sixty patients (57.7%) were alive, and 44 cases (42.3%) died during or after therapy. The three years overall survival rate of patients was 42% in this study. According to our data, AML has the same frequency as compared with data from developing countries. But different epidemiological characteristic was a lower rate of three years overall survival in patients. These data may serve the health authorities for more effective environmental and preventive measurements, purposeful allocation of resources for facilitating up-to-date diagnostic and treatment modalities, psychological support programs for respective family members and educational purposes.
Etemadi A, Sadjadi A, Semnani S, et al. Cancer Registry in Iran: a Brief Overview. Arch Iranian Med 2008;11(5):577-80.
Gurney JG, Bondy ML, editors. Epidemiology of Childhood Cancer Principles & Practice of Pediatric Oncology. 5th ed. Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2006: p. 1-10.
Lanzkowsky P. Leukemias. Manual of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology 4th ed Churchill livingstane Nek, London, Madrid. 2011;17:518-66.
Leukemia. Center for Disease Control and Prevention. (Accessed in May 2015, 3, at http://www.cdc.gov/CDCHome>).
Conter VRC, Sala CRA. Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Orphanet Encyclopedia Monza, Italy. Clin Pediatr Univ Milano Bicocca 2004:106.
Pérez-Saldivar ML, Fajardo-Gutiérrez A, Bernáldez-Ríos R, et al. Childhood acute leukemias are frequent in Mexico City: descriptive epidemiology. BMC Cancer 2011;11:355-66.
Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). Leukemia Foundation. (Accessed in May 2015, 10, at www.leukaemia.org.au).
Leukemia.Cancer types. (Accessed in May 2015, 10, at http://www.cancer.gov/types/leukemia
Kheifets L, Shimkhada R. Childhood Leukemia, and EMF: Review of the Epidemiologic Evidence. Bioelectromagnetics 2005;7(Suppl):S51-9.
Rauscher GH, Sandler DP, Poole C, et al. Family History of Cancer and Incidence of Acute Leukemia in Adults. Am J Epidemiol 2002;156(6):517-26.
Wen WQ, Shu XO, Sellers T, et al. Family history of cancer and autoimmune disease and risk of leukemia in infancy: a report from the children's cancer group (The Unites States and Canada). Cancer Causes Control 1997;9(2):161-71.
Perrillat F, Clavel J, Jaussent I, et al. Family Cancer history and risk of childhood acute leukemia (France). Cancer Causes Control 2001;12(10):935-41.
Farhud D, Mahmoudi M, Kamali M, Marzban M, Andonian L, Saffari R. Consanguinity in Iran. Iranian Journal of Public Health. 1991;20(1-4):1-16.
Deschler B, Lübbert M. Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Epidemiology and Etiology. Cancer 2006;107(9):2099-107.
Appelbaum FR, Gundacker H, Head DR, et al. Age and acute myeloid leukemia. Blood 206;107(9):3481-5.
Xie Y, Davies SM, Xiang Y, et al. Trends in Leukemia Incidence and Survival in the United States (1973-1998). Cancer 2003;97(9):2229-35.
Kolahdoozan S, Sadjadi A, Radmard, et al. Five Common Cancers in Iran. Arch Iran Med 2010;13(2):143-6.
Dastgiri SS, Fozounkhah Sh, Shokrgozar S, et al. Incidence of Leukemia in the Northwest of Iran. Health Promot Perspect 2011;1(1):50-3.
Alebouyeh M. Current Status of Pediatric Oncology in Iran. Arch Iranian Med 2003;6(3):160-2.
Mousavi SM, Gouya MM, Ramazani R, et al. Cancer incidence and mortality in Iran. Ann Oncol 2009;20(3):556-63.
Hjalgrim LL, Rostgaard K, Schmiegelow K, et al. Ageand Sex-Specific incidence of childhood leukemia by immunophenotype in the Nordic countries. J Natl Cancer Inst 2003;95(20):1539-44.
Pui CH, Boyett JM, Relling MV, et al. Sex differences in prognosis for children with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. J Clin Oncol 1999;17(3):818-24.
Mejía-Aranguré JM, Fajardo-Gutiérrez A, Flores-Aguilar H, et al. Environmental Factors contributing to the development of childhood leukemia in children with Down's syndrome. Leukemia 2003;17(9):1905-7.
Mehrvar A, Rahiminejad MS, Hedayati Asl AA, Tashvighi M, Faranoush M, Alebouyeh M, Kuchakzadeh L, Ramyar A, Sabery nejad J, Mehrvar N. Features of Childhood Acute Myeloid Leukemia in Iran: a Report from Double Center Study. Acta Med Iran. 53(12):749-752.
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Welcome to a state of dreams.
Where everything is as real as you let it be
Viewing: Music Video - View all posts
FRONTIERS ALL STARS ANNOUNCE 'PUSH THROUGH' SINGLE FEATURES NEARLY SIXTY ARTISTS FROM FRONTIERS MUSIC SRL ROSTER
Frontiers Music Srl is excited to present a one of a kind release, the single 'Push Through'. A unique song - available now on all digital platforms - which was recorded by a virtual plethora of Frontiers artists!
Watch the music video HERE.
Stream or download the song HERE.
It all started from a discussion that the label team had with their in-house producer Alessandro Del Vecchio after the idea of creating a Frontiers All Stars song had come up. It was everyone's desire to vent about the overall frustration and disappointment that the pandemic situation had created for the world and give a sort of "sign of life," which had to be related to the fact that while all the businesses were shut down, creativity was certainly not on hold.
Alessandro says, "We all know how we will remember 2020. A year when everything stopped and we experienced something unique, tough, and certainly trying. These times are difficult for all the musicians, labels, promoters, and workers of the music industry. The dream felt like it was slipping away and the world seemed a much sadder place without concerts, albums, and all the emotions that music brings. "Push Through" is about how musicians reacted. I've never seen so much music played, shared, and promoted as in this pandemic. My timeline was full of music videos, live streams, bedroom acoustic sessions, and anything that could be done in such a situation. Musicians never stopped. Even in a trying environment we kept our voice out there, kept pushing to release music and this is my tribute to us all, who kept our voices heard. "Push Through" is the anthem to Frontiers and their amazing roster and I'm very glad I could be joined by some of my bandmates, friends, and new found brothers. The line up says it all, they roar those words and let their instruments scream! The result is simply incredible and to see three generations of rockers creates a unique bond never heard or seen before. This is for you all, keep pushing and feeding that PMA!"
Music and lyrics by Alessandro Del Vecchio
Produced, mixed and mastered by Alessandro Del Vecchio at Ivorytears Music, Clearwater, FL, USA
Jeff Pilson - bass
Alessandro Del Vecchio - keyboards
James Martin - keyboards
Tom Martin - guitar
Andrea Seveso - guitar
Aldo Lonobile - guitar
Michele Sanna - drums
Singers (in order of appearance):
James Christian (House Of Lords)
Ronnie Romero (Lords Of Black)
Gary Hughes (TEN)
Renan Zonta (Electric Mob)
Adrienne Cowan (Seven Spires)
Dino Jelusick (Animal Drive)
Ailyn (Her Chariot Awaits)
Ross Jennings (Novena)
Caterina Nix (Chaos Magic)
Alessandro Del Vecchio (Edge Of Forever)
Toby Jepson (Wayward Sons)
Toby Hitchcock (Pride Of Lions)
Michael Sweet (Stryper)
Roberto Tiranti (Labyrinth)
Sergio Mazul (Semblant)
Kent Hilli (Perfect Plan)
Nick Workman (VEGA)
Robin McAuley (Black Swan)
Margarita Monet (Edge Of Paradise)
Andy Kuntz (Vanden Plas)
Mizuho Lin (Semblant)
Lars Safsund (Work Of Art, Lionville)
Mariangela Demurtas (Ardours)
Nathan James (Inglorious)
Dan Rossall (Passion)
Johnny Gioeli (Hardline)
Mark Basile (DGM)
Alessio Garavello (A New Tomorrow)
Nasson (Chaos Magic, Sinner's Blood)
Marina La Torraca (Phantom Elite)
Claudia Layline (Eternal Idol)
Guitarists (in order of appearance):
Mario Percudani (Hardline)
Nick Savio (Eternal Idol)
Ivan Keller (Animal Drive)
Dave Bates (Edge Of Paradise)
Tony Hernando (Lords Of Black)
Robert Sall (Work Of Art)
Tracii Guns (L.A. Guns)
John Berg (Paralydium)
Mike Orlando (Her Chariot Awaits)
Olaf Thorsen (Shining Black)
Aldo Lonobile (Secret Sphere)
Simone Mularoni (DGM)
Danny De La Cruz (Inglorious)
Magnus Karlsson (Magnus Karlsson's Free Fall)
Ben Hur Auwarter (Electric Mob)
in Music Video
Seven Spires: "Succumb" from Upcoming "Emerald Seas" Album
Here it is, the first video & single from Seven Spires' new album, "Emerald Seas". Please enjoy 'Succumb' and let us know what you think! Frontiers Music srl will release the new album on February 14, 2020.
"Die Just a Little" Music Video by Sascha Paeth's Masters of Ceremony
"Sick" Lyric Video by Sascha Paeth Masters of Ceremony
"NEW SONG & VIDEO ALERT: Sascha Paeth's Masters Of Ceremony have premiered a second single & video, 'Sick' from their upcoming album "Signs of Wings"! This one is for all the metalheads, so turn it up and bang your head....??
"Signs of Wings" is out September 13th on CD/LP/Color LP/Digital. Pre-order: http://radi.al/SignsofWings "
"The Time Has Come" by Sascha Paeth's Masters of Ceremony
NEW SONG & VIDEO ALERT: Sascha Paeth's Masters Of Ceremony have unveiled their first single & video, 'The Time Has Come'! Debut album, "Signs Of Wings" out September 13, 2019 on CD/LP/Color LP/Digital. Pre-order: http://radi.al/SignsofWings Get a limited edition, 180g, white vinyl edition available exclusively on the Frontiers EU & U.S. stores. Strictly limited to 300 copies worldwide. Get a copy here, while supplies last.
After four or five years of discussions about a possible collaboration with Frontiers, renowned German producer, guitarist, and songwriter Sascha Paeth agreed to join forces with the Italian label and launch his new band, Sascha Paeth's Masters Of Ceremony. Today, fans can get their first look at Sascha Paeth's Masters Of Ceremony with the premiere of their first music video, 'The Time Has Come'.
Watch it here.
Sascha says, “Finally, I am putting my energy into a metal project of my own. It is the sum of my experiences over the years and a bit of a revival of what I was doing in the past.”
“Signs of Wings” is much more than a solo album. Sascha put together a great group of musicians including Felix Bohnke (Avantasia) on drums, André Neygenfind (Avantasia) on bass, Corvin Bahn on keyboards, and the awesome American singer Adrienne Cowan (Seven Spires). Offering a wide range of styles within the metal spectrum, from aggressive and straight forward metal songs, to more melodic and symphonic tracks, this record has a bit of everything and is certainly going to strike fans of Sascha's as one of the most inventive, complete, and exciting releases in the metal genre in 2019.
As a 15 year old teenager, you might have found Paeth playing a more bluesy style, or Van Halen-meets-Accept style hard rock, but it wasn’t long before Paeth joined Heaven’s Gate, where the music was harder and heavier. This experience was where he learned to enjoy inspiration from new styles and from new collaborations. It was the start of a long journey through the music business, a journey that is far from over....
To label Sascha Paeth a multi-talented producer, engineer, musician, and songwriter might not quite cover his full set of skills and achievements. The Wolfsburg-born German multi-musician has produced countless bands including Avantasia, Kamelot, Rhapsody, Epica, and more. Having worked on, produced, and engineered over 200 albums since 1988, it’s fair to say he has a reputation for being at the forefront of shaping the European melodic power metal sound.
1. The Time Has Come
2. Die Just A Little
3. Radar
4. Where Would It Be
5. My Anarchy
6. Wide Awake
7. The Path
8. Sick
9. Weight Of The World
10. Bound In Vertigo
11. Signs Of Wings
Sascha Paeth: guitar
Adrienne Cowan: lead-vocals
André Neygenfind: bass
Felix Bohnke: drums
Corvin Bahn: keyboards
Produced by Sascha Paeth
https://www.facebook.com/saschapaethsmastersofceremony/
https://twitter.com/PaethSascha
https://www.instagram.com/saschapaethofficial/
"The Cabaret of Dreams" OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO
It's a thrill to bring to you "The Cabaret of Dreams" OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO! Filmed by the delightful EmVision in various locations in MA, this is the first video from our coming album, "Solveig".
3.5 WEEKS LEFT to pre-order the new SEVEN SPIRES album "Solvieg" here.
Don't miss Seven Spires LIVE at MetalDays in Tolmin, Slovenia this July!
“Solveig” will be available worldwide on August 4, 2017!
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AfraRaymond in CL Financial Bailout, Colman Commission, Corruption, Politics and Public Affairs July 9, 2015 July 9, 2015 1,456 Words
CL Financial Bailout – Impunity Insanity?
© 2015 Dion Jennings. Used with permission.
The headline ‘Duprey wants back CLICO‘ in the Sunday Express of June 28th 2015, did not surprise me at all. That is exactly the threat against which I have been warning throughout my campaign against this appalling and unprecedented bailout.
To allow Lawrence Duprey to regain control of CLICO would do serious violence to the fundamental notions of the law not allowing persons to benefit from their wrongdoing.
Already, we can see various positions being taken – the Movement for Social Justice and Peter Permell of the CLICO Policyholders’ Group stating their objections, while Mariano Browne (former PNM Treasurer and Minister in the Ministry of Finance) and Mary King (economist and former Minister of Planning) setting out what seem to be supportive positions.
The arrangements have been set in place a long time ago to facilitate exactly this move by Duprey at his convenience. It would be a travesty for us to allow this to proceed. If I am to believe certain reports, it may already be too late to stop Lawrence Duprey, so the facts must be stated clearly. It was reported that Duprey’s lead attorney for his intended legal action is former Attorney General Ramesh Lawrence Maharaj SC, while his negotiations with the other shareholders are former Hindu Credit Union (HCU) President, Harry Harnarine, former CLICO CEO, Claudius Dacon and former CLICO Agent, Carlton Reis.
The 27 March 2015 announcement by the Central Bank Governor of the ‘Resolution Plan’ for the bailout was intended to signal that the State had seen clearly how to recover all the Public Money advanced to CLICO in this massive bailout. It seems that with all the monies owed now being reported as either repaid or otherwise secured, Duprey is prepared to make a case to regain control of CLICO. It also seems that other claims of breach of contract and oppression are to be made.
This entire discussion is only possible because of two important aspects of the bailout – firstly, the shares remained with the original shareholders and secondly, the entire huge loan to repay all of CL Financial’s creditors was made interest-free. If the State had taken the shares at the outset or even a modest rate of interest had been charged, we would not be in this damaging position.
The fact is that the decision on the bailout terms were made by the responsible officials in negotiations during the first half of 2009. Those officials were in the Cabinet of the previous government and the bailout was presented to the public as a ‘done deal’.
In my view the respective officials need to give some explanation as to how and why these beneficial terms were extended to the CL Financial group. Some of those people appear unlikely to seek public office again, but others are certainly in the forefront of this heated election season with prominent roles as spokespersons. For the record, those high officials include –
PM Patrick Manning,
Finance Minister Karen Nunez-Tesheira,
Mariano Browne,
Colm Imbert and
the PNM Chairman and Minister of Energy, Conrad Enill.
We need to hear from those persons who are responsible for negotiating this series of concessions.
Fit & Proper?
Apart from those critical elements of the bailout agreements, there is also the fact that the Central Bank has established rules to restrict the people who operate our country’s financial institutions. The ‘Fit & Proper’ Regulations are an essential control in deciding on the persons and entities who can own or serve as Directors, Officers, Auditors and Actuaries of Financial Institutions.
These Regulations define a person of ‘Good Character’ as follows –
8.1.7 Whether the person has been a director, partner, or otherwise involved in the management of a business that has gone into receivership, insolvency, or compulsory liquidation while the person was connected with that organization or within a reasonably short period (e.g. one year) after the person’s departure from the institution;
8.1.8 Whether the person has been dismissed, asked to resign or resigned from employment or from a position of trust, fiduciary appointment or similar position because of questions about honesty and integrity;…
8.1.10 Whether the person has not been fair, truthful and forthcoming in dealings with customers, superiors, auditors and regulatory authorities within the past ten years and has been the subject of any justified complaint relating to regulated activities; and
8.1.11 Whether the person demonstrates a readiness and willingness to comply with the requirements and standards of the regulatory system and other legal, regulatory or professional requirements and standards…
It seems clear to me that Lawrence Duprey does not qualify as a person of ‘Good Character’ as defined in these Regulations.
At the first page of the Central Bank Statement of 27 March 2015 is stated –
“…CLICO Resolution Plan was developed to repay all creditors and policyholders and to ultimately facilitate the transfer of CLICO’s traditional insurance portfolio to a suitable buyer by ensuring that enough appropriate assets are put aside…” (emphasis mine)
The acid question is whether the Central Bank can find the will to pursue the proper enforcement of these important regulations. Any decision to apply the fit & proper tests to Lawrence Duprey would raise questions on other parties who were serving before the crash.
Some of those other parties would be –
Andre Monteil – former CL Financial Group Finance Director, PNM Treasurer and Chairman of several State Enterprise Boards.
Dr Bhoe Tewarie – former CL Financial Board Director, now serving as Minister of Planning & Sustainable Development.
Faris Al Rawi – Former Director of Clico Investment Bank, now a PNM candidate for the upcoming elections.
PricewaterhouseCoopers – former auditors for CL Financial.
It seemed to me that the insertion of the conditional ‘suitable’ in the Central Bank statement was an intentional way to signal that the Fit and Proper Regulations could play a decisive role in this matter. We will see.
Code of Silence?
Duprey refused to testify to the Colman Commission, preferring to run the risk of paying the paltry $2,000 fine for that. I deplored that failure as something no responsible person could condone since it effectively undermined a lawfully-appointed enquiry which was intended to establish the facts about a situation of great public concern. If we deplore Abu Bakr’s no-show at the ‘Coup Enquiry’ then Duprey’s must also be deplored.
For the record, the five responsible parties who refused to appear before the Colman Commission were –
Lawrence Duprey – Executive Chairman of the CL Financial Group
Andre Monteil – former CL Financial Group Finance Director and PNM Treasurer
Mariano Browne – former Minister in the Ministry of Finance and PNM Treasurer
Conrad Enill – Former Minister in the Ministry of Finance and PNM Chairman
Danny Montano – Former Minister of Labour.
The Chairman of the Enquiry lamented the refusal of those persons to give evidence which could have assisted in unravelling just what had gone wrong. To me, this conduct seems to amount to a kind of Contempt of Court from our leadership class.
DUPREY DUPED?
I was not at all surprised at Duprey’s claim that he had been ‘duped’ in the bailout negotiation. That is the typical when someone is trying to escape fundamental responsibilities and conveniently play victim. Surely Lawrence Duprey would have had solid legal, financial and commercial advice in negotiating this bailout. It seems unlikely to me that Duprey was outwitted.
FREEDOM OF INFORMATION?
The final point is really the starting-point, since one of the serious criticisms of the entire bailout arrangements is that there was no legal or financial due diligence to define just what the parties were agreeing to. That lack of information at the start has continued to this day, with no audited accounts for the CL Financial group or any details as to the payout of $25 Billion of Public Money.
Before any decision to return CL Financial or any of its parts to the control of its former owners, there must be a full and proper accounting of those vast sums of Public Money. One of the points advanced by the State in my litigation for that information was that CL Financial was not subject to the Freedom of Information Act, since it was a privately-owned company. Of course my request was to the Ministry of Finance, which is subject to the FoIA, so the point was never argued.
‘Public Authorities’ are subject to the FoIA and they are defined at S 4 (k) as “…a body corporate…which is supported directly or indirectly by Government funds and over which Government is in a position to exercise control…” CL Financial is definitely supported by ‘government funds’ and the government appoints the majority of its Directors, so the details all constitute public information to which we are lawfully entitled.
Sunlight is the best disinfectant.
andre monteil
British-American Insurance
CL Financial
CLICO
CLICO Investment Bank
CMMB
colman commission
lawrence duprey
CL Financial Bailout – False Firing?
AUDIO: Election Hardtalk interview on Power 102FM – 16 Jul 2015
4 thoughts on “CL Financial Bailout – Impunity Insanity?”
Reblogged this on Barbados Underground and commented:
Barbadians have acquired a reputation of having short memories. One subject not making the news cycle of late is the CLICO fraud matter. Questions about the role late prime minister David Thompson and DLPites played in the demise of CLICO, and the lack of appetite to pursue key players known to have been associated with CLICO remain unanswered five years later.
It is a shame the first item on the Barbados Investors and Policyholders Alliance (BIPA) third annual general meeting is “Ascertainment of Quorum in accordance with Organization’s By-laws”. BU understands these meetings are not well attended which is a big disappointment with 25,000 policyholders listed to be at risk.
How many of you critics out there can build a $100 billion dollar business? The US and world economy was in a crisis/meltdown around that time, hence the reason for much of Mr. Duprey’s and many other larger insurance, banking, hedge funds, real estate companies problems. Was it over night success as per Duprey and his assets?
Did the USA seize all the assets of companies that were in trouble? Were they not supported with an injection of capital and given back to their rightful owners…most. Did Mr. Duprey company pay back the TT treasury? How much interest should be paid back for the Treasury support? Are his companies Solvent or Insolvent? Were the Liabilities more than his assets? not so. Did Clico turn a profit after the world financial problems were corrected a la President OBAMA? IS IT AN ETHNIC ISSUE AS PER WHO OWNS THE BUSINESS or are we afraid to say so???? you thoughts are as good as mine!
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William, a very thought provoking article, adding yet more confusion to who was the “spy” in the print shop. However it does help explain why McLane was involved outside the…
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Thanks for this information on the Turner family. I am doing research on the Towles family who were neighbors of the Turners, and the Abneys. I read accounts of the…
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The British Naval Signals Missions of 1781
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Congress’s “Committee on Spies” and the Court-Martial Policies of General Washington
Ken Daigler on The British Naval Signals Missions of 1781
Sandra B Elder on “The Celebrated and Notorious” Ned Turner
John P. on Congress’s “Committee on Spies” and the Court-Martial Policies of General Washington
Wayne Lynch on Victory for the Georgia Refugees
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Jo Hickson on The South Carolina backcountry in mid 1780
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Home | S | Socks
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Observations from Carlton's lone classical liberal
Troeth faction splits
December 1, 2007 ~ Andrew Norton ~ 7 Comments
Senator Troeth, a former party vice-president who has been in Parliament for 14 years, told The Age the Costello-dominated committee’s decision to override Mr Baillieu’s bid to run a candidate in last month’s byelection for the state seat of Albert Park was “simply disgraceful”.
– Victorian Liberal Senator Judith Troeth, reported on page 1 of today’s Age.
Despite John Howard accepting responsibility for last weekend’s result, it cannot all be laid at his feet. Many of the problems the party faced were caused by a weak and subservient organisational wing that lacked the courage to stand up to the parliamentary wing.
– Victorian Liberal Senator Judith Troeth, in her opinion piece published in today’s Age.
Election 2007 celebrity politics
One upside of the 2007 election was the failure of celebrity politics. Big names and big dollars were after Malcolm Turnbull in Wentworth, yet there was a swing to him of 1.19%, against a NSW swing away from the government of 5.65%.
Across the harbour in Bennelong, Labor’s celebrity candidate Maxine McKew, though clearly with qualifications for the job beyond a long TV career, won with a swing of 5.38%, slightly below the NSW average. Perhaps a less-well-known Labor candidate wouldn’t have been able to get Labor over the line in Bennelong against a Prime Minister, but the celebrity factor isn’t obvious in the numbers.
Nor was a celebrity factor clearly showing for former TV weatherman Mike Bailey, running against Joe Hockey in North Sydney. His swing of 4.8% was also below the NSW state average.
In the South Australian seat of Boothby, Nicole Cornes probably did get a celebrity effect – far more publicity for her blunders than she might have received had she been more obscure. She did get a swing to Labor of 2.33%, but that was only just over a third of the overall South Australian swing.
Many voters probably do make their election decision for superficial reasons, but in 2007 their interest in celebrities did not seem to be among them.
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Sierra.P.Griffin@KP.org
Manager, Issues and Brand Management
PASADENA, Calif. — The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted many of our holiday traditions, including the beloved annual Rose Parade® watched by millions in person and on TV each year, often under sunny skies in beautiful Pasadena.
This year, however, the Pasadena Tournament of Roses will broadcast “The Rose Parade’s New Year Celebration presented by Honda” a 2-hour TV entertainment special on Jan. 1, featuring prerecorded performances, celebrity appearances, and more to celebrate the history of the Rose Parade. This reimagined program will air locally on 6 Tournament of Roses broadcast-partner stations/networks: at 7 a.m. Pacific time on Univision, and at 8 a.m. PT on ABC, Hallmark Channel, KTLA, NBC, and RFD-TV.
While a Kaiser Permanente float has been a fixture in the parade for 15 years, the organization will trade in their float for a 90-second video with the theme, “Honoring health care heroes and a healthy, thriving world,”expected to be viewed by millions around the world. This unique and inspirational video will highlight health care heroes, while reinforcing the importance of proper safety and hygiene measures as we continue to fight the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The staff walking in each day to care for COVID and non-COVID patients are doing so much more than stepping up and going the extra mile,” said Julie Miller-Phipps, president, Kaiser Permanente Southern California and Hawaii, Health Plan and Hospitals. “They are recommitting themselves daily to their calling of providing clinical care, support services and human connection to the 4.7 million people who have entrusted us with their lives in Southern California.”
Edward M. Ellison, MD, executive medical director and chairman of the board for the Southern California Permanente Medical Group, echoed those sentiments.
“Our physicians and care staff show up with bravery and commitment every day to ensure the highest possible patient care and medical excellence are provided in our communities across Southern California,” he said. “Day after day and throughout the pandemic, they have gone above and beyond the call of duty to deliver high-quality, equitable, and compassionate care. That commitment is particularly meaningful during these unprecedented times, but we can’t do this alone. We are all in this together and need everyone to wear a mask, wash your hands frequently, avoid large and small gatherings, and practice physical distancing. Along with the vaccine, putting these actions into practice will not only protect the health of your family and communities, but also help us return to a more normal life.”
Kaiser Permanente’s TV segment features heart-warming and emotional testimonials by 8 health care heroes. They include:
Marcial Reyes, Emergency Department Charge Nurse, Fontana Medical Center
Shortly after the start of the pandemic, Marcial Reyes found himself on the other side of the fence when he contracted the COVID-19 virus. After spending 23 days in the hospital — isolated, comatose, and on a ventilator for more than a week — Reyes recovered and returned to his work on the front lines in the emergency department to care for patients experiencing the same illness that placed him in a critical state and near death.
Maria Guzman, Environmental Services Aide, Anaheim Medical Center
Maria Guzman’s passion for patients started when she witnessed hospital staff treat her close loved ones who were fighting cancer with love and compassion. She quickly fell in love with health care and decided she wanted to make a difference in the healing experience. As an environmental services aide during the pandemic, Guzman has found great meaning in going above and beyond for her patients. Her love for helping others has motivated her, and she is now working toward becoming a registered nurse.
Nina Vallega, Intensive Care Unit Registered Nurse, Los Angeles Medical Center
The beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic felt like walking into the unknown, and for Nina Vallega, it is a moment in time she’ll never forget. “We saw all the negative reports in the news, the ever-changing stream of information about the virus, and it made us wonder what we were getting ourselves into,” Vallega said. One of the things that inspires her most is the bravery of her colleagues. “They still show up every single day, and they still take care of these people,” she shared.
Jerry Barba, Clinical Psychologist, Downey Service Area
Front-line workers have been under enormous pressure. Jerry Barba saw that and took action. Barba began by supporting Kaiser Permanente staff over the phone, but soon realized that wasn’t enough, deciding instead to volunteer his time in person at Kaiser Permanente Downey Medical Center. After setting up an office right in the heart of the emergency department, he began providing quick interventions and offering coping tips for front-line workers in need of a little extra connection. “Hold on to hope and try to find some bright spots, even if they’re just moments in a day,” he says.
Rene Aventura, Registered Nurse, Step Down Unit, Baldwin Park Medical Center
A platoon sergeant in the U.S. Army, Rene Aventura has experienced the reality of being in combat zones on the other side of the globe, even once coming close to losing his life during an airstrike. Now back home, Aventura is fighting another battle as a front-line nurse during the COVID-19 pandemic. “Since I came back, I feel like I’m in a state of war. It’s a fight we have to win,” Aventura said. He feels honored to be able to provide patient care during this difficult time, sharing that it feels like this is his and his fellow nurses’ calling.
Ebony Talley, Director of Infection Prevention, Woodland Hills Medical Center
Ebony Talley believes we can get through the pandemic together. “There is light at the end of the tunnel, and there is another side of this,” Talley says. “This is hard for all of us, and we really haven’t had a moment’s rest since this started. That takes a toll on anybody.” After more than 9 months of combatting the virus, pandemic fatigue is expected, but giving up isn’t an option, she says.
Danielle R. Flowers, MD, pediatrician and physician in charge, Mission Hills Clinic
Providing care for children during the pandemic hasn’t been easy because of the emotional toll. “You can barely see your doctor’s eyes behind all of the stuff we’re wearing, so it is really hard to connect with the kids and make an already scary experience a comfortable one,” said Dr. Flowers. “We’ve had to say things like, ‘I’m smiling at you with my eyes,’ and we have to do more with our voices and our body language to let them know that this is a safe environment and we’re here to help them.”
Elizabeth E. Hudson, DO, Head of Infectious Disease, Panorama City Medical Center
Dr. Elizabeth E. Hudson said one thing that has helped her navigate through the unknown is recognizing the importance of embracing an interdependent culture. Another is understanding that sacrifice is hard and uncomfortable, but necessary. “This is all about caring for your fellow human being and showing the Martin Luther King kind of love — a real love for people,” she explains. While it’s impossible to have all the answers, Dr. Hudson says she is focusing on making sure patients can get the care they need so they can recover as quickly as possible. “I have seen whole families die, especially earlier on in the pandemic, and it’s just been heartbreaking. That has sort of shaped my whole focus,” she shared.
These health care heroes are available for interviews and are eager to tell their stories to inspire others to stay strong and remain optimistic that the new year will bring a beginning to the end of the coronavirus pandemic.
About Kaiser Permanente
For 75 years, Kaiser Permanente has been committed to shaping the future of health and health care — and helping our members, patients, and communities experience more healthy years. We are recognized as one of America’s leading health care providers and not-for-profit health plans. Since July 21, 1945, Kaiser Permanente’s mission has been to provide high-quality, affordable health care services and to improve the health of our members and the communities we serve. We currently serve 12.4 million members in 8 states and the District of Columbia. Care for members and patients is focused on their total health and guided by their personal Permanente Medical Group physicians, specialists, and team of caregivers. Our expert and caring medical teams are empowered and supported by industry-leading technology advances and tools for health promotion, disease prevention, state-of-the-art care delivery, and world-class chronic disease management. Kaiser Permanente is dedicated to care innovations, clinical research, health education, and the support of community health.
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coffee won't help —
Drunk people account for 70% of weekend emergency room visits in UK city
Drinking binges are now a scientifically measurable phenomenon.
Annalee Newitz - Dec 22, 2015 1:00 pm UTC
The lads from the film World's End know when to start drinking.
114 with 72 posters participating
A study conducted in the city of Newcastle, UK, has revealed what you always suspected. Over two-thirds of emergency room visits on weekends, especially in the wee hours of the morning, are directly related to alcohol consumption.
Newcastle University health researcher Kathryn Parkinson and her colleagues examined health records from a local inner-city hospital over the 2010-11 year, looking for statistics on how many people were admitted for alcohol-related issues. Then they conducted breathalizer tests of people admitted to the same ER during 2012-13.
In an analysis of the data, the researchers uncovered several telling patterns. Though overall alcohol-related visits to the ER hovered around 15.2 percent in 2012-13, the numbers jumped dramatically on weekends, rising to 70 percent. The majority of those were young men, arriving in the late night or early morning—and most of them came from outside the city. "Traumatic injury was the most common reason for attendance [at the hospital]," Parkinson and her colleagues write in a paper published yesterday in Emergency Medicine Journal. But "psychiatric problems" were a close second.
Parkinson and her colleagues suggest that hospitals could ease the burden on workers by beefing up staff during weekend binge drinking hours. Psychiatric staff could offer brief interventions, helping people who are struggling with alcoholism and depression. In the long run, these interventions could save money. Right now, treatment for alcohol-related problems in the ER costs the hospital where the research took place roughly £1 million per year (nearly $1.5 million).
Musgrove Park Hospital emergency care consultant Clifford Mann says the main problem is that alcohol is too widely available and too cheap. "The absurdity of retail alcohol prices must be addressed," he argues in an op-ed. "There are few more obvious economic principles than the link between price and volume sales." He suggests one remedy would be to set minimum unit prices on booze. Like Parkinson and her colleagues, he also recommends "short personalized interventions" for people who show up at the ER with alcohol-related maladies.
Ultimately, this study confirms that cities experience predictable patterns of people drinking to excess—and getting injured as a result. The question that remains is whether hospitals and policymakers will do anything about it.
Emergency Medicine Journal, 2015. DOI:10.1136/emermed-2014-204581 (About DOIs).
Annalee Newitz Annalee Newitz is a former Senior Tech Culture Editor at Ars Technica. She is the author of Scatter, Adapt, and Remember: How Humans Will Survive a Mass Extinction, and her first novel, Autonomous, came out in September 2017.
Email annalee.newitz@arstechnica.com // Twitter @annaleen
traumadog Ars Praefectus
Well, duh... it's a well-known observation by anyone working in the ER.
Whether or not a tax on alcohol designated to support hospitals for this care is a good question, though. Too bad you can't legislate against stupidity.
isparavanje Ars Praefectus
traumadog wrote:
Well they do it in Singapore and the riot couple years ago still happened. It really does curb college drinking though.
baba264 Ars Scholae Palatinae
And yet, alcohol is legal while pot is not. I wish our society's relation to drugs our guided less by moralism and more by fact.
Kevin Lowe Ars Tribunus Angusticlavius
I've only wound up in the ER due to alcohol once - and I wasn't the one drinking. Pro tip: when removing someone from a pool who is too drunk to swim, if that person is a soccer player, let someone else volunteer to get their feet.
BatCrapCrazy Ars Tribunus Militum et Subscriptor
Drunk people account for 70% of weekend emergency room visits in UK any city.
Sadly been there done that. Do not try to go to a midnight ice skating thing at a local rink while drinking, your arm WILL end up in a cast.
Last edited by BatCrapCrazy on Tue Dec 22, 2015 8:28 am
Chromauk Wise, Aged Ars Veteran
I don't really drink, but friends and family certainly do! Round this neck of the woods (Glasgow) its like £3 ($4.50) a pint on average so standard procedure is to hit up an "offy" (liquor store) and get shitfaced before even getting to the bar/club.
The objective seems to be to get shitfaced and price has very little to do with it, raising the price of alcohol in stores will simply mean a switch to something higher proof, instead of spending £10 on a slab of beer to get me tanked up before i hit the club, i'll down a bottle of Whisky or Rum.
Its not the pricing, alcohol has been taxed rotten over the years and the situation has NOT changed at ALL, its still viewed as an acceptable escape for your average working class guy, tired of a week of shoveling tarmac for £6 an hour and looking for anything he can to momentarily forget about having to start all over again on Monday morning to hopefully make enough to feed, clothe and make rent.
I've worked with guys whos sole focus was on merely making it to the weekend because getting "mad with it" was the only thing they looked forward to.
Pricing isnt going to change that, never in a million years.
196 posts | registered Aug 4, 2007
maehara Ars Scholae Palatinae et Subscriptor
A study conducted in the city of Newcastle, UK, has revealed what you always suspected.
Newcastle? Going purely on its steretypical image, I'd suspect that limiting the study to that one city may be skewing the figures somewhat high...
986 posts | registered Feb 6, 2008
strohminator Ars Scholae Palatinae et Subscriptor
Chromauk wrote:
They said the same thing about cigarettes. But if you tax the ethanol at a high enough rate, people will drink less.
1173 posts | registered Apr 13, 2010
That really depends on how much you tax. If you need 50 bucks for a bottle of vodka, like in Singapore, it becomes rather expensive to get piss drunk.
IagoRubio Ars Centurion
isparavanje wrote:
The only thing you will do with that is promote smuggling.
The prohibition already reduced consumption but created Al Capones.
Counter point: Have you tried Tiger beer in Singapore? That stuff is almost noxious enough to send anyone to the hospital.
I'd suspect anyone who's made Singapore a port of call sometime in the past can verify that. (I still haven't found the cat....)
nimro Ars Tribunus Militum et Subscriptor
ER? Er, not over here! A&E thank you very much.
maehara wrote:
It's no stereotype: just walk down the Bigg Market on a Friday or Saturday night. And there are plenty of other cities that are close.
The problem that we have in this country (and elsewhere, admittedly) is a social attitude of getting drunk as the objective of the evening. Not to have fun with friends; not to meet new people; not to dance; not to enjoy a nice meal, but the purpose of going out is to get incoherent and abusive. Best summed up in the T-shirt slogan "If you weren't wasted, the weekend was." When the PLAN for the evening is to have so much to drink that you lose consciousness, and everyone cheers you on, there is something seriously wrong, and I'm not sure there's an easy fix.
Last edited by benwiggy on Tue Dec 22, 2015 9:20 am
Howay the lads!
mrrooster Smack-Fu Master, in training
strohminator wrote:
Cigarettes don't get you drunk though. So the price pressure becomes at what point will you take the withdrawal over the financial burden; whereas with alcohol it provides some level of escapism or social lubrication that many find much harder to give up.
Whilst it probably will have some effect I would expect most people to just switch to brewing their own or other illegal sources.
History tells us that people really really like a little drinky.
mrseb Ars Tribunus Militum
nimro wrote:
I propose you read the story on the UK site, where the headline says A&E
cbreak Ars Praefectus et Subscriptor
I never understood why some people prefer spending the few free days they have each week sleeping away being drunk instead of actually doing something fun. Do they miss work so much that they can't bare spending any waking moment without it?
Jilkon Ars Praetorian
IagoRubio wrote:
That's not actually true at all from my experience in a high tax country. Convenience trumps price any day of the week. Normal people are not going to seek out criminals and/or scary people to buy their beer just because it's a few bucks cheaper.
Geebs Ars Tribunus Militum
The psychs aren't going to be much help either. They generally refuse to see anybody under the influence of substances because that makes evaluation difficult - so'd you'd actually have to keep the person in hospital for longer than you otherwise would have done.
bsiu Wise, Aged Ars Veteran
Annalee, welcome to Ars! Been a fan of your work at io9.com for a long time. Sad you left io9.com, but glad you left for another of my favorite sites.
--B
Ice_Pirate Ars Centurion
You know how to get these numbers to go down? Legalize marijuana.
I'm not saying weed is perfectly safe, but if your goal is harm reduction - legalizing marijuana is the easiest way to do it.
I see some downvotes, so here are some sites.
If given a choice, some alcohol users will switch to marijuana: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.3 ... 012.733465
Marijuana is MUCH safer than alcohol: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4311234/
Last edited by Ice_Pirate on Tue Dec 22, 2015 11:13 am
Direwood Ars Praetorian et Subscriptor
cbreak wrote:
Going by mostly anecdotal evidence it's that they have no other outlet. They don't get drunk solely because it's fun. They get drunk to escape the drudgery of their lives or because they are too poor or isolated to enjoy other activities.
Alcohol is as much a symptom as a cause of these problems. If you had the choice to sit at home and do nothing but think of the problems in your life or go out and get shitfaced to forget about your troubles, what do you think most people would do?
robotic_tourist Ars Tribunus Militum
I usually call it Casualty (and I think there should be some game called Causality, based on the Casualty TV show where you get points for guessing how the emergency of the week will happen, a bit like Cluedo I suppose)
Mitlov Ars Tribunus Angusticlavius
Or they'll go back to making moonshine in the woods.
puppies Ars Praefectus
Mitlov wrote:
I believe this is the case in Norway, which has high taxes on alcohol.
Round this way people don't really smoke taxed tobacco, they smoke bootlegged stuff from god knows where, from the smell of it it seems comprised of 50% privet hedge, 25% oiled rope and 25% actual tobacco... I routinely get offered cartons of 200 for £30, when retail its more akin to £75 for a 200 carton.
Its Scotland where we have a long history of bootlegging Whisky and introduced the Appalachians to it and look at the market for illegal alcohol there!
You could ban alcohol outright and a Scotsman will still get his hands on his wee dram, it'll get to a point that the tax will outweigh the risks of running a profitable still.
Heroin and Cocaine are overpriced, doesn't seem to slow down the consumption in impoverished parts of the country.
I don't have a workable simple solution, simply because its not a simple problem, Check out the deprivation index and I guarantee areas with most impoverished have the greatest cases of binge drinking, I live in one of the poorest areas of Scotland and see it consistently, but thats purely anecdotal, National statistics will in all likelihood back me up. I don't see there being a fix thats likely to be agreeable to the powers that be, outside of lipservice and price hikes. Because tackling the wider issue would likely mean that all the folks who do all the shittiest of jobs would be less inclined to settle for that kind of life. An inebriated populace is largely a happy populace, if a little self destructive and problematic. So long as someone continues to pick up the garbage each week and tarmac the roads, whos complaining really?
raxx7 Ars Legatus Legionis et Subscriptor
Sweden has high alchool taxes and more.
Anything stronger than beer and cider is only sold in a state owned chain of stores.
All alchool is bloody expensive to the point swedes make road trips to Denmark and Germany to buy cheaper alchool.
Yet binge drinking is common. As a swede once put it, if you drink a glass of wine during the week people will thibk you are an alchoolic, but getting shitfaced on the weekend is normal.
10727 posts | registered Jul 17, 2006
Wellard Ars Centurion
Like Jock says above. It's an escape, and in the arse end of Glasgow there really isn't any better escape that geeting smashed on buckfast and a few spirits if you can afford it.
You need to give people variety and opportunity. THe side effect to drinking is bloody aweful hangovers and lack of energy. I get that on just 3-4 pints. So I try not to drink as I'm lucky enought to have other interests and activities in life. If peoples minds could be opened up to good wholesome fun like mountain biking, doing DIY or working on somthing which doesn't get finished at the end of the day so you need to be with it the next day and the next then you'll see a drop in Alcohol, and may be a population drop to
You'll still get the smack heads. Always will. Life for some is the pleasure you get from drugs. But at least you'll show those seeking escape other ways to enjoy life if you can create opportunity and show it to them
cdclndc wrote:
I've tried Tiger beer, and yes it's ridiculously bad, but I don't see how it's a counter point since it's still 5% ABV.
In Singapore there's very little smuggled alcohol, and the average citizen certainly does not have access to smuggled alcohol. People do drive to malaysia to get drunk but the government doesn't really care about that.(obviously)
I mean yeah it's cool to dismiss government control nowadays, but some countries really have done it successfully.
Frodo Douchebaggins Ars Tribunus Militum
Singapore is also a geographically tiny place, easy to secure. It's also on the list of places I won't even transit through, based on their laws.
kehcorpz Ars Praetorian
baba264 wrote:
Yah.... now that I think about it Canada is in the process of legalizing, maybe I should open up a pizza or munchies store.
Ice_Pirate wrote:
Part of binge drinking is going out to places and doing it there with friends and having fun. People are going to go to bars or restaurants and drinking and it's not going to change all of a sudden. Most places won't allow smoke, nor would they want their restaurants smelling. And alcohol is more of a social drug and it lowers inhibitions and makes you more chatty. Marijuana is very strain dependent but none of those strains will ever match alcohol for its effects. And likely it would just make people use both marijuana and alcohol. It's not necessarily too bad of a thing but it increases the effects of alcohol. The problem with that is if you have a blood alcohol level of 0.08 with Marijuana it's a completely different effect than without it.
I'm not against marijuana, it can be good for you in small doses. And by small doses I do mean through a vaporizer with controlled heat and only a puff or two. A joint is not a small dose, and release more compounds due to the heat level.
LordInsidious Ars Centurion
kehcorpz wrote:
Should open a drone delivery of weed, burritos, hot pockets (pizza has too much surface area) and ketchup chips.
jdale Ars Tribunus Angusticlavius et Subscriptor
I'm not sure I disagree with your conclusion, but the second paper seems to assess the safety only in terms of lethal dose. Both alcohol and marijuana can cause other kinds of harm without approaching poisoning you to death. I think a fair assessment needs to be more holistic. It certainly might reach the same conclusion (e.g. counting deaths due to drunk driving is not really an issue of lethal dose, but it's going to tip the scales against alcohol) but it would be a lot more convincing.
JPan Account Banned
Sometimes laws are made less by moralism and more by realities. Alcohol has been part of pretty much all societies since we have civilization. Weed less so. Just because one dangerous thing is allowed doesn't mean we should allow all.
And nobody should tell me weed is not dangerous. I had a good friend from school. He transformed himself from a normal boy into the slow always smiling proto pothead. A fate worse than a swift death. A bit might not hurt but a lot during your formative years clearly does.
Frodo Douchebaggins wrote:
Na, you don't wish to transit through Singapore not due to their laws, but due to how Western media misportrays them.
dotdavid Seniorius Lurkius
Something about these headlines doesn't add up to me. Christopher Snowdon reckons the study hasn't been read properly by journalists.
http://velvetgloveironfist.blogspot.co. ... ances.html
"With a little scrutiny of the data, it becomes clear that 'On weekend days, over 70% of attendances were alcohol related' should read 'On weekend days, alcohol related attendances reached a peak of 70% at 3 am'"
That would make more sense to me; the non-alcohol-related people are probably asleep then.
John_5mith Ars Centurion
Here in the US, a few months ago, at 9 pm on a Friday night I took my wife into the ER for serious breathing problems. By the time we left (~midnight) there were 22 people waiting. All of them were grossly overweight. Yes, I counted, and I was amazed. I guess they were in the ER for issues related to diabetes.
My point is that most of the people in the ER on weekends are there because of avoidable problems. I'm not blaming people, but alcoholism and poor nutrition are problems that might be handled better before an ER visit. I know that these are difficult problems to fix.
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Florida’s Jon Harrison Claims Arkansas Player Used Racial Slurs
Posted byBy Curtis Bunn | November 13, 2013 CommentsComments (0)
Photo by www.slackpile.com.
More than a month after he was ejected in the Oct. 5 game against Arkansas, Florida center Jon Harrison claims he was pummeled by racial slurs from an unnamed Razorback.
Explaining to reporters that he did not poke an official in the chest as alleged and causing his ejection from that game, Harrison said he was telling the referee that he was fed up with racial insults directed at him.
“What happened was, one play I got face-masked, then the next play I got called every version of the ‘N-word’ known to man,” Harrison said to 247Sports affiliate, GatorBait.net. “And I went up to the ref and I’m like, ‘Ref, please, you have to control this player. He’s been calling me every racial slur.'”
In the process of pleading with the referee, Harrison said he made contact with him, which is an automatic ejection.
“I talk with my hands as you guys probably have seen this whole time and I touched the ref in his chest,” he said. “I didn’t poke him, but I was talking like this.” He waved his hands to illustrate.
“I was honestly was just trying to tell the ref to get this player because I was getting attacked, I felt like I was getting harassed, and it was beyond football,” Harrison said. “Calling me the N-word and everything is not football anymore.”
Harrison declined to name the player and no other players have come forward to say they heard the remarks, making it unlikely there will be an investigation by the SEC.
TagsArkansasFloridaNCAA footballRacial slursec
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Dr. Deepak Kumar (Audiological Scientist)
Phone: 01-9106913 ; 083 3126 299
Email: info@audiologyclinic.ie
Dr. Deepak Kumar
Adult Hearing Test and Assessment Dublin
Child Hearing Assessment
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MICROSUCTION
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An Auditory Perspective On Concussion
Concussion: Definition
Concussions are a public health crisis. A majority of athletes and service members yearly suffer concussive injuries. Concussions are extensively known to drive to possible major brain-related conditions, like CTE, concussions also harm the auditory brain, hereof the auditory brain system should also be considered in concussion management.
A concussion is an unfold, nonpenetrating traumatic brain injury (TBI), originate by an immediate external force. TBIs are categorised as mild, moderate, or severe, and by description, a concussion is a mild TBI. However, there has been debate over whether a “concussion” is a kind of injury that is different from a “mild TBI,” we understand these terms to be synonymous, in accordance with the Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center (DVBIC, 2018) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, 2018).
Concussion: Medical Overview
A concussion can be defined as an injury or harm to the brain causes streaky loss of normal brain function. Generally, it is caused by a strong hit on the head or back of the head where the central nervous system is located. Most of the times, there are no visible indications of head trauma. Additionally, it is also not clear whether a person losses his consciousness or not because of concussions. It is also seen in most of the cases that a person with concussion nevermore loses consciousness.
On the other hand, if we medically define concussion we can say, it is a clinical syndrome which can be distinguished by instant and temporary alteration in brain function. It includes mental status alteration, degree of consciousness, emerging from mechanical force or injury.
Ordinarily, people with concussions are not able to remember the incidents that happened instantly before or after the injury. In simple words, people with concussions are not able to describe the incidents that immediately happened earlier or later the injury. Additionally, if we talk about the results of concussions, it may impact on memory, judgment, reflexes, speech, balance, and muscle coordination of the patient.
If we talk about the stiffness of concussions, you can not even take mild concussions lightly. Neurologist, as well as other health professionals, specialize in brain-injury, stand on the fact that some concussions are less severe than others, but there is no such thing as a “minor concussion.”
Concussion: Symptoms
Symptoms of a concussion are classified into four categories:
Cognitive impairments – trouble concentrating;
Physiological impairments – like blurry vision;
Emotional problems – feelings of sadness or depression;
Sleep disturbances – Unable to sleep;
Type and severity of these symptoms can vary considerably, and the equal force that causes a concussion in one person may not cause a concussion in another. Earlier, loss of consciousness at the time of injury was required for the diagnosis of concussion.
Concussions are a Public Health Crisis:
In the United States, 1.6 million to 3.8 million sports-related concussions happen every year. Members of physical games, for example, football or boxing can likewise encounter “subconcussive” wounds. These wounds are not extreme enough to cause acute concussion symptoms, yet the accrual of concussive and subconcussive occasions are considered to lead to progressive brain atrophy, a disease known as Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy, or CTE. This neurodegenerative damage, which regularly does not start until years after the athlete has quit playing, prompts mindset issue, psychological decrease, and dementia.
Concussion, as well, is an imperceptible injury. Since it influences work, not macrostructure, a Concussion is imperceptible utilizing conventional image techniques, for example, MRI or CAT checks. Hence, Concussion diagnosis depends intensely on a patient’s symptom reporting. For many professional athletes in physical games, be that as it may, their occupations are attached to their capacity to continue hits to the head thus they may endeavour to cover up or make light of head damage to anticipate losing their business to another player. This can make sports-related concussion hard to analyze. To overcome the limitations of concussion diagnosis, research has moved to recognize markers of concussion in oculomotor and vestibular capacity to give target measurements to concussion finding and observing. Our work recommends that the sound-related framework ought to likewise be considered in Concussion management.
What Does Concussion Have to Do with Hearing?
The blast wave of an explosive device usually results in harm to both the peripheral and central auditory system. Peripheral damages include perforation of the tympanic membrane, tinnitus, temporary or permanent audiometric threshold shifts, and otalgia. However, the level of peripheral hearing damage does not align with the level of listening difficulties experienced, suggesting that the central auditory system is impaired by the concussive force of the blast wave.
Why Would the Auditory System Be Affected by Concussion?
The anatomy of the auditory system makes it sensitive to injury. The auditory system has more relays combining the sensory organ to the brain than other sensory systems and contains some of the largest axonal tracts (e.g., the lateral lemniscus). Axons bidirectionally connect all of the auditory relays, crossing between the ear, brainstem, midbrain, and cortex. In addition to blood vessels, axons are supposed to carry the brunt of the damage from a concussive force. When a force, like a blast wave or games-related impact, pushes the brain inside the skull, axons are stretched and sheared by this movement. Shearing and stretching of axons can initiate a dysfunctional metabolic cascade (Giza and Hovda, 2014), which can start to improper signalling among cells, or potentially the death of the injured axon.
How Hearing Aids for Elderly can Make their Lifestyle Easier
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Category: AIRLINES & AIRPORTS
BAA Training Vietnam And Vietravel Airlines Sign A Long-term Agreement
Reading Time: 2 minutes Aviation training centre BAA Training Vietnam and newly established Vietravel Airlines have recently signed a long-term partnership agreement. BAA Training Vietnam has committed to the startup airline Vietravel, controlled by Vietnam’s leading tour operator Vietravel, to provide wet and dry Airbus A320 full-flight simulator lease services. The first students occupy the Airbus A320 full-flight simulator […]
15 January – Inaugural Flight of Wizz Air Abu Dhabi
Reading Time: < 1 minute The UAE’s newest national airline Wizz Air Abu Dhabi will launch its operations in mid-January, completing its inaugural flight from Ab Dhabi to Athens. The airline delayed its initial plan to penetrate the Asian market last summer due to the unforeseen pandemic event and its destructive impact on air travel demand. However, currently, the airline […]
Emirates Introduces A New Premium Economy Concept
Reading Time: 2 minutes Last week, Emirates Airlines received its ordered A380 airplane, which incorporates a brand new Premium Economy cabin product and more advancements across all cabins onboard. The Premium Economy represents two passenger lavatories located at the front of the main deck. Sir Tim Clark, President at Emirates Airline, said: “The Emirates A380 is already one of […]
Alaska Air Buys 23 More BOEING 737 MAX Aircraft
Reading Time: < 1 minute Alaska Airlines is ordering 23 more Boeing 737 MAX 9 jets upsizing its original order. The U.S. fifth major passenger airline has placed this order less than three weeks after Ryanair confirmed it would be purchasing 75 Boeing 737 MAX jets. “We are extremely proud to be announcing this transformative agreement with Boeing,” said Brad […]
Finnair Will Get A 400€ Million Government Loan
Reading Time: < 1 minute As Finnair reported on Wednesday, it plans to receive an unsecured hybrid loan of up to 400€ million ($486 million). This financial aid, subject to EU Commission approval, should help the airline get through the challenging times of the pandemic. Tytti Tuppurainen, the minister responsible for state ownership policies, said, “The state is committed to […]
Aeromexico To Resume Boeing 737 MAX Flights From December 21s
Reading Time: < 1 minute Aeromexico is planning to relaunch Boeing 737 MAX flights on December 21st. According to some reports, the carrier will make round trips between Mexico City and three other essential destinations: Cancun, Tijuana, and Monterrey. In total, Aeromexico has six Boeing 737 MAX aircraft and is expecting at least eight more. Based on Boeing’s information on […]
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Azuna Press
How a Buffalo-based startup Azuna grew monthly revenue from $12k to $200k
Scott Dancy’s startup company, Azuna, started with a broken washing machine and reeking wet clothing. The Buffalo native’s friend, Keith Green, gave him a prototype of a product that uses tea tree gel to remove mold, mildew and bacteria from the environment. “I was like, ‘OK, sure,' ” Dancy said of his initial dismissiveness. “Within an hour the smell was gone and I was like holy (cow), this actually works.” Solving a simple problem is the way many startup companies get started. But Dancy and Green aren’t ordinary friends. Dancy is a longtime entrepreneur who has founded and led several staffing agencies, and he is also a board member and vice president at oil and gas investment firm APX Energy. Green and Ryan Plesh run...
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‘Stranger Things’ Creators Say Season 4 Won’t Be the Last
Stranger Things Season 4, like almost every other Hollywood production this year, has been delayed due to coronavirus. As we wait for new episodes of the smash hit Netflix series, we can't help but wonder: How long will Stranger Things last? Do these production delays spell out an untimely end for the residents of Hawkins, Indiana? Rest assured, show creators The Duffer Brothers have a plan. In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Ross Duffer shared that Stranger Things’ upcoming season won’t be the last:
Season 4 won't be the end. We know what the end is, and we know when it is. [The pandemic] has given us time to look ahead, figure out what is best for the show. Starting to fill that out gave us a better idea of how long we need to tell that story.
If the consistent popularity of the first three seasons are any indicator, a majority of Netflix users would gladly accept more installments of Stranger Things. Something about the combination of its charming cast, playful nostalgia, and genuinely creepy paranormal activity just works. But as its principal cast of youths continues to mature and grow into young adults, the show may lose that Goonies/Stand By Me/E.T. vibe. Or we might be introduced to a new crop of kids to carry the torch to the show's finish.
While Netflix hasn't greenlit a fifth season of Stranger Things yet, it’s worth knowing that The Duffer Brothers signed a multi-year deal with Netflix to develop new projects. Unlike cable television series, Netflix series are typically designed to last around three or four seasons. Of course there are exceptions, but that seems to be the deal. This might be because Netflix shows are filmed less like TV shows and more like multi-part movies. These shows are often afforded the opportunity to wrap things up neatly, rather than jumping the shark with unnecessary, drawn-out final seasons in a last attempt to stay on the air. But when a show is as popular as Stranger Things? Bring on Season 5.
Gallery — The Best Netflix Original Shows:
Source: ‘Stranger Things’ Creators Say Season 4 Won’t Be the Last
Filed Under: netflix, Stranger Things
Categories: Offbeat
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Technology plays a critical role in the courtroom and court proceedings. Capturing the record with accuracy and clarity is fundamental to ensuring a fair and transparent judicial system.
BIS Digital provides comprehensive high-quality technology systems incorporating the key elements your courtrooms require for sound, video, presentation and communication.
Steve Coldren
We have the knowledge and experience to customize your systems—no one-size fits all, cookie-cutter solutions will ever come from us. Each component is handpicked by our engineers during their in-depth solution design process based on a needs analysis of your organization.
Our recommendations are backed by expertise, developed through rigorous testing and certifications issued by our industry-leading manufacturing partners along with our decades of AV experience.
If you’re in the market for a well-designed, reliable AV system that perfectly matches your court’s needs, you’ve come to right place.
Digital Audio and Video Recording
Digital Audio & Video Recording
DCR is our landmark digital court recording software used in thousands of courts throughout the U.S.
It’s important so that everyone in the room can hear what’s been said and individuals who must speak can do so normally without strain.
AV and Presentation Technology
Our multi-media evidence presentation systems are flexible enough to handle everything from digital documents to 3-dimensional objects.
Video Arraignment and Remote Testimony
The technology handles multi-site, multi-party conferencing and encounters can be recorded and archived.
Remote Language Translation
To ensure a fair judiciary, courts must grant equal access regardless of a person’s proficiency in English.
Enterprise Room Control
Our reliable Enterprise Room Control system provides a central command center to manage every audio and video device in the room.
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DCR is our landmark digital court recording software used in thousands of courts throughout the U.S. It can record and play back recordings on multiple audio and video channels making it an ideal solution for every environment from small hearings to large courtroom proceedings. Moreover, DCR integrates with your docket and case management system for significant time savings.
It’s reliable, feature-rich and super easy to learn. The free DCR player is transcription and file export ready. Use it alone, or as part of a complete integrated AV solution with evidence presentation, video arraignment, sound reinforcement and remote translation.
Courtrooms require a good sound system. It’s important so that everyone in the room can hear what’s been said and individuals who must speak can do so normally without strain. Being able to capture speech precisely and broadcast it clearly carries added weight when language translations come into play.
We offer cost-effective solutions with top-shelf components that provide excellent audio pick up and superior digital sound processing. Features such as acoustic echo cancellation and white noise generation for sidebars distinguish our sound reinforcement and amplification systems from the merely acceptable standard of other vendors.
One of the key determinants in the outcome of a trial is evidence. Since evidence can come in all shapes and sizes, presenting evidence in all its forms can be challenging. Our multi-media evidence presentation systems are flexible enough to handle everything from digital documents to 3-dimensional objects. Our visualizers display evidence with outstanding image quality and maintain real-life color representation. Even the small print appears sharp to viewers in the courtroom or participating remotely via video link.
Our system accommodates multiple inputs and is HDMI and VGA compatible. It’s so easy to use which can come in handy particularly with last-minute evidence. The last thing anyone wants to do or see during a trial is fumbling with finicky AV equipment.
Two other key features are preview and management control. These allow a judge to preview evidence and determine who in the courtroom: attorneys, witnesses or jury members, should view it. This advanced presentation system, which also enables touchscreen annotations, which can be saved for the record, is technology every courtroom should have.
Our video conferencing solutions offer flexibility, outstanding high-definition quality and adhere to industry protocol standards for security and encryption. Our conferencing and collaboration tools include professional audio and video components such as wide-angle, optical zoom cameras, speakers, microphones and display monitors for superior HD web conferencing. The technology handles multi-site, multi-party conferencing and encounters can be recorded and archived.
Technological advances often bring cost savings and convenience. Video conferencing does both in a courtroom setting. Video arraignments dramatically reduce costs associated with traditional arraignments which require transporting an inmate from the correctional facility to the court. With video arraignments, an inmate never leaves the jail and appears before the judge virtually. The judge conducts the arraignment using a secure, two-way, full-motion, real-time video connection, thus eliminating safety risks to law enforcement transporters, judicial staff and civilians encountered along the way.
Remote testimony is another process to which video conferencing bring efficiencies. Delays due to bad weather no longer apply when a witness can connect electronically to the courtroom. Another upside is the potential for cost savings. Expert witnesses or attorneys that must travel great distances to appear physically in court would incur costs for transportation, meals, hotels and travel time. These all disappear in a virtual court environment.
To ensure a fair judiciary, courts must grant equal access regardless of a person’s proficiency in English. If a person does not speak or understand English because it’s not their primary language or because of a hearing impairment, the court should provide resources to overcome these barriers.
BIS Digital offers technology solutions that facilitate access to court services for limited English proficient individuals including those who communicate in American Sign Language. We provide the audio and video technology that brings translation and interpretation services into the courtroom, even if the interpreter is many miles away. We not only provide the connectivity, but our Remote Translation System also records these interactions, capturing the record for transcription and maximizing limited resources.
For those with impaired hearing, an assistive listening device can aid those for whom a hearing aid is not adequate. These systems with multiple digital audio inputs reduce background noise and maximize listening. Be sure your courts provide equal access and comply with state and federal regulations, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) with BIS Digital.
Smart AV monitoring makes sense for most court systems. Our reliable Enterprise Room Control system provides a central command center to manage every audio and video device in the room. It eliminates the need for expensive proprietary AV controllers. Using a standard iPad, Surface Pro or Android tablet, the user controls everything with just one touch. The system is configured to match the requirements of each individual room and scalable for future upgrades or downgrades. We work with legacy equipment not just devices purchased from us.
Court administrators looking to streamline processes and tighten security by restricting user access appreciate the total control the system provides. Whether it’s a microphone that needs to be muted or a witness that needs to be cued for upcoming testimony, Enterprise Room Control will optimize operational performance throughout.
Since 1982 the mission of BIS has been to create the best digital recording solutions available in the marketplace.
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In 1982, the first compact disk player was launched. Coincidentally, so was BIS Digital.
Introducing the all-new DCR for today’s fast-track judicial and courtroom management demands. We’ve made our landmark recording system better, faster and more reliable than ever before.
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Home News China Orders Towns to Count How Many Citizens ‘Believe In God’ And Then Monitor Them
China Orders Towns to Count How Many Citizens ‘Believe In God’ And Then Monitor Them
Bp-News-1
Police Invade Beijing’s Shouwang Church
China’s central government has intensified its crackdown on Christianity in recent months by pressuring local government officials to keep a count on the number of citizens who believe in God and to monitor them, according to a new report.
Like the days of Daniel and King Darius.
3 Now Daniel so distinguished himself among the administrators and the satraps by his exceptional qualities that the king planned to set him over the whole kingdom. 4 At this, the administrators and the satraps tried to find grounds for charges against Daniel in his conduct of government affairs, but they were unable to do so. They could find no corruption in him, because he was trustworthy and neither corrupt nor negligent. 5 Finally these men said, “We will never find any basis for charges against this man Daniel unless it has something to do with the law of his God.” Daniel 6:3-9
Chinese Christians Memorize Entire Bible In Prison, Says Gov’t Can’t Take What’s In Your Heart’
6 So these administrators and satraps went as a group to the king and said: “May King Darius live forever! 7 The royal administrators, prefects, satraps, advisers and governors have all agreed that the king should issue an edict and enforce the decree that anyone who prays to any god or human being during the next thirty days, except to you, Your Majesty, shall be thrown into the lions’ den. 8 Now, Your Majesty, issue the decree and put it in writing so that it cannot be altered—in accordance with the law of the Medes and Persians, which cannot be repealed.” 9 So King Darius put the decree in writing.
The CCP (Communist Party of China) even is threatening the officials in towns and villages with repercussions if the number is wrong. Three government officials in Yongcheng city in Henan province were suspended in April when their report to the government was too low.
Recommended: Why Many Chinese Are Becoming Christians
“The government is taking the matter of religion very seriously now,” an unidentified local government official in the province of Henan told Bitter Winter, a watchdog that monitors religious freedom in the country. “Every day, they ask us how many people in our village believe in God. If we say there aren’t any believers, they claim that we’re concealing what we know and failing to report it.
“If it is determined that we didn’t report the situation truthfully, we will be punished. Now, we have to report our work to the township government twice a day. We also need to fill out a form in the evening. We’re so busy that we don’t have any free time at all.”
The three local officials eventually were reinstated.
“Special attention is paid to this work. It’s like our lives are being threatened,” a local official said. “After reporting someone, we have to restrict their movements and report their situation every day.”
China Offers Thousands of Dollars to Anyone Who Will Report Christians, ‘Illegal’ Churches to Government
This local official who spoke to Bitter Winter said Beijing fears the number of Christians is growing too fast and that believers may undercut the CCP’s message — or even overthrow the central government.
Beijing believes “measures must be taken, and the number of believers cannot be allowed to continue growing,” the local official said.
Followers of Buddhism and Taoism also are monitored.
Central government officials use a message platform, WeChat, to share information about Christians and followers of other religions. For example, during last year’s Dormition of the Mother of God – a Catholic feast day on Aug. 15 – local government officials were told to monitor citizens who were Catholic. A Catholic woman who was taking a bus to a nearby city to celebrate the feast was intercepted and returned home, according to an official in the province of Jiangxi.
Tortured Evangelist Supernaturally Escapes Chinese Maximum-Security Prison by Simply Walking Out
“Government officials have a WeChat group,” the official in Jiangxi told Bitter Winter. “Everything is sent to it: the latest orders from higher authorities, the status of regular inspections of religious venues, photos of believers and their movements during religious holidays, activities in closed down meeting venues. Superior officials can easily ascertain the religious situation in local areas. They can even deal with any matter, regardless of importance, and conduct remote real-time monitoring.”
China ranks 27th on Christian support organization Open Doors 2019 World Watch list of the 50 countries where it is most difficult to be a Christian.
Chinese State-mandated Pastor Commits Suicide ‘Exhausted’ With Government Control
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No need August 18, 2019 At 4:18 pm
Good for those who have come to Christ. Prayerfully more will come bringing many other people with them! And Satan No Doubt Is & Will Be Defeated as Christ Jesus has already done. HALLELUYAH AMEN!
oop someone Doesnt like the GOD OF ALL CREATION, SAD! MIGHT THEY POSSIBLY BE PERSUADED TO PARTAKE IN HIS LIGHT AND GOODNESS ….. 🤗 🌺🌴🍃 LIFE & SPIRIT!
Don’t really care for this symbol ☪ , but that would be a personal issue wouldn’t it?
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Legacy of Making
Sustainability & Wellness
A Legacy of Making
At the heart of our workshops in Berkshire and Dorset lies a dedicated team of skilled and passionate craftspeople.
We believe in the value of the handmade object and it is our mission to champion craft and create a legacy of making and makers.
APPRENTICESHIP SCHEME
Our award-winning apprenticeship scheme has been running for over 30 years and has been the cornerstone of our business.
Many of our senior craftsmen and management team joined the company as apprentices, and we firmly expect many of those starting with us today to remain with us for the next 30 years.
Find out more about our apprenticeship scheme
CREATIVE COLLABORATIONS
We champion British manufacturing and craft through high profile and innovative collaborations such as The Legacy, Wish List and Connected projects with the American Hardwood Export Council (AHEC); as well as the GREAT Britain campaign with the Department for International Trade.
CONNECTED by Design - a project with AHEC and The Design Museum
CPD & TALKS PROGRAMME
We have developed a specialist CPD programme for the trade, which looks to educate designers and architects on the key considerations when working with timber, and how to specify healthy and sustainable furniture.
We work with local schools, university students and the wider community to share our love of making.
We have always supported young, up and coming designers – helping them to craft their designs, providing business advice and giving them a platform to showcase their talent to a wider audience.
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Loretto, MN
Best Events Near You in Loretto, Minnesota
Friday, Jan 15, 2021 at 7:00pm
Stages Theatre Company
Saturday, Jan 16, 2021 at 1:00pm
Sunday, Jan 17, 2021 at 1:00pm
Loretto Top Searches
Monday, Jan 18, 2021 at 10:00am
Tuesday, Jan 19, 2021 at 7:30pm
Orpheum Theatre - Minneapolis
Wednesday, Jan 20, 2021 at 10:00am
Wednesday, Jan 20, 2021 at 12:30pm
Wednesday, Jan 20, 2021 at 7:30pm
Thursday, Jan 21, 2021 at 10:00am
Thursday, Jan 21, 2021 at 12:30pm
Thursday, Jan 21, 2021 at 7:30pm
Anderson Daniels and Shalo Lee Band
Medina Entertainment Center
Hamel, MN
Best Places To Go Near You
Minnetonka Beach Skatepark
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Voyageur is a year-round Environmental Education Center located in Mound, Minnesota. It is situated on 110 acres of forested, rolling hills o...
Diamond A Ranch
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20950 Rogers Drive
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About Us: A stroll through the museum will take you on a nostalgic trip through the automotive past. Enjoy seeing 100 vehicles, including cars, tru...
South Shore Skate Park
5355 Street Albans Bay Road
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East on Highway 7 - Turn left on Christmas Lake Road. Turn right on Excelsior Blvd. to St. Albans Bay Road.West of Highway 7 - Turn right on Christ...
Plymouth Skate Park
3625 Fernbrook Lane
Plymouth’s Skate Park is open daily from 9 a.m. to sunset. Admission is free. The Skate Park provides skateboarders and in-line skaters a var...
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Central Park (formerly City Park) is near the St. Albert Catholic Church. Park amenities include an enclosed park shelter (warming house...
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Mission:The mission of the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, as part of the University of Minnesota, is to provide a community and a national resource...
Maple Grove Community Center
12951 Weaver Lake Road
The Community Center is a recreational and meeting facility open for drop-in or rental use. Our 835,000 annual visitors bring people of all ages th...
Lowry Nature Center
7025 Victoria Drive
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Lowry Nature Center, the first public nature center built in the Twin Cities, is a beautiful, prairie-style building nestled in the middle of the C...
Victoria Recreation Center
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Discover the Victoria Recreation Center, a place for family fun and fitness that fits your life. The Victoria Recreation Center amenities include:-...
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Paisley Park, Prince's extraordinary private estate and production complex in Chanhassen, Minnesota, will open for daily public tours starting Octo...
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The Chanhassen Skate Park was installed in September of 1999. The park is located between city hall and the downtown fire station. A new hockey / i...
History Chanhassen Dinner Theatres' founders, Herb and Carol Bloomberg, designed and constructed their 90,000 square foot entertainment complex wh...
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In 1849, Minnesota Territory was established with a population of fewer than 6,000 settlers. With few towns and a widely scattered population, farm...
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Official Site is: http://www.ci.otsego.mn.us/index.asp?Type=B_BASIC&SEC={3FE32B8B-541F-44F9-8D45-85B5A9B172FC}
Round Lake Park Pavilion
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AMENITIES: Baseball Field Basketball Court Bike Trail Fishing Pier Hiking Trail Hockey Rink Ice Skating Rink Lighted Field Outdoor...
New Hope Skate Pad
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The city of New Hope constructed a tier-one skateboard park in Civic Center Park in 2008. The pad features:6,000 square foot concrete padeight obs...
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The Chaska Skate Park is located at Chaska Community Park. The park has over 1,500 square feet of smooth blacktop with nine ramps and rails for ska...
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Generoso and Lily’s Bovine Ska and Rocksteady: Bobby Kalphat’s Soul Sounds Label
December 1, 2015 / Generoso Fierro
A New Gaylads Track on Bobby Kalphat’s label with Willi Williams at the Producer Helm
Hello Bovine Ska and Rocksteady Listeners!
Thanksgiving is one of our favorite holidays, and, to celebrate, we had a food themed Thanksgiving edition of Generoso and Lily’s Bovine Ska and Rocksteady. All sets outside of the spotlight on Bobby Kalphat’s dazzling Soul Sounds label were related to food in some way, and to start off the Thanksgiving cheer, we presented two sets of ska, beginning with a 19 year tradition of starting the Thanksgiving edition with Prince Buster’s excellent track, “Thanksgiving,” a super ska from the Hard Man Fe Dead LP. Then, Laurel Aitken kicked off the second set with his “Mash Potato Boogie,” a rollicking track that should make you dance anytime you are mashing potatoes (regular or sweet!). Given the food theme, there was no way that we would forget to include “Night Food” by Alerth Bedasse or “Night Food Recipe” by Chin’s Calypso Sextet in the mento set. After some fun and salacious mento, the last set of the first hour featured food related rocksteadys, including “Coconut Water” from Desmond Dekker and “Food of Love” from The Inventors.
At the top of the second hour, we presented a two set spotlight on Bobby Kalphat’s label, Soul Sounds.
Bobby Kalphat, the mighty melodica player, began performing as a vocalist. Upon realizing that his voice was not quite the best, he began to perform as an instrumentalist, first as a keyboard player and then gaining enough of a reputation to become a member of Bobby Aitken and the Carib-Beats. He first recorded for Lloyd Bell’s President Hi Fi sound system before heading over to Lyndon Pottinger’s SEP label. And after recording for other producers and saving up his salary from being a correctional officer as he honed his craft as a musician, in 1968, Kalphat began producing his own tracks, debuting with, “Rhythm and Soul,” which he released for his own label, Soul Sounds.
We began the spotlight on “Rhythm and Soul,” which was distributed in England through Pama, whose purchasing payment did not include a royalty agreement but did allow Bobby to purchase a Wurlitzer keyboard he would use in the coming years.
While Bobby founded the label and even designed its logo, Willi Williams, who was a member of the Set Takers, a band that Bobby performed with, would eventually take over the Soul Sound label, releasing his own recordings on it along with his own productions. One of those Willi Williams’ productions of note is “Revenge,” credited to Youth Winston. Youth Winston would become Dr. Alimantado, but Willi Williams met him before those days and gave him the name Youth Winston in order to evoke a similarity to Big Youth, who was rising in popularity.
Beyond Soul Sounds, Bobby Kalphat continued to produce records and open up his own imprints. Some of note are Roots Rock Inc./International, which released tracks in the late 1970s, Hit Vibes, which released recordings in the 1980s, and Music Mania, which released productions in the 2000s.
After the trek through Soul Sounds, we closed off the show with some sensational reggae, including I Roy’s “My Food Is Ration” and Skin, Flesh and Bones’ “Bammie Fe Fish.”
You can listen to our full show from November 24, 2015 HERE. Subscribe to our show on Mixcloud; it’s FREE, and you’ll get an email every Tuesday when we post a new show.
Happy Thanksgiving!!! Please help us and spread the word and repost if you liked the show! Repost anywhere you see fit.
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Generoso and Lily
Bobby Kalphat, desmond dekker, laurel aitken, reggae, rocksteady, ska, Soul Sounds Label, Thanksgiving, Willi Williams
← Generoso and Lily’s Bovine Ska and Rocksteady: BB Seaton’s Soul Beat Label 11-17-15
Generoso and Lily’s Bovine Ska and Rocksteady: Duke Reid’s Dutchess Label 12-1-15 →
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Tags: globalization
Pagtingin sa wika
Bulatlat Contributors May 29, 2019 globalization, language, wikang Filipino
Ang sariling wika ay bahagi ng kultura at instrumento ng pagkakaisa. Ang pagpapaunlad ng sariling wika ay magreresulta sa pagpapalaya hindi lang ng bayan kundi ng kaisipan.
Counterhegemony: 12 Reasons to save the national language
Bulatlat Contributors August 7, 2014 Filipino language, globalization
Filipino subjects have been obliterated through Commission on Higher Education/CHED Memorandum Order (CMO) No. 20, Series of 2013. Hence, instead of celebrating this year’s National Language Month (Buwan ng Wikang Pambansa), everyone is requested to help turn the tables against the enemies of our beleaguered national language.
The tragedy of Greece as a case study of neo-imperial pillage and the demise of Social Europe
Bulatlat Contributors October 16, 2013 globalization, neoliberalism, structural adjustment policies for Greece in 2009
Three and a half years after the EU and IMF, the “twin monsters” of global neoliberalism, came to the “rescue,” Greece has been transformed from a developed economy into an emerging economy, posting unemployment and poverty rates that are normally associated with so-called “third world” nations, and is permanently stuck in a vicious cycle of debt, austerity and depression.
On US Imperialism and a way forward for the Philippines
Bulatlat Contributors January 25, 2012 7 Comments globalization, peace talks, US imperialism
By BILL FLETCHER, JR.
Is the so-called “special relations” with the US beneficial to the Philippines? Is the Left a spent force? What are the prospects for real change? In an interview, Professor Jose Maria Sison tackles these questions and more.
War and health
Benjie Oliveros September 24, 2011 Afghanistan's health care system, effect of war on terror to access to health, effect of war on terror to people's right, Global Health Course, globalization, principles guiding US defense policy, War on Terror
By BENJIE OLIVEROS Bulatlat.com When I began thinking about this topic and doing my research, I realized that I should be discussing not only about war and health but, more importantly, on the war against the people’s right and access to health. The two wars against the people’s right and access to health occurred simultaneously…
Satur C. Ocampo | Winners and losers
Bulatlat Contributors September 16, 2011 2 Comments globalization, IMF, IMF-WB, Neoliberal
By Satur C. Ocampo At Ground Level | The Philippine Star In my last two columns I wrote about the call of US billionaire-investor Warren Buffet to tax the rich more, and about efforts to create more jobs in the United States by reviving manufacturing that uses advanced technology. Acceding to readers’ requests, I try…
KMU Resolves to Intensify Struggle Against Globalization and For A Just and Lasting Peace
Benjie Oliveros March 27, 2011 Bayan Muna, globalization, Gloria Arroyo, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, KMU, Satur Ocampo
By BENJIE OLIVEROS
During the 10th National Congress of the Kilusang Mayo Uno, the labor center took stock of its strengths and weaknesses and resolved to bring the struggle of workers to a higher level, and to pursue the fight against neoliberal policies, which constitute an attack on the rights of workers and the Filipino people.
The Philippine Economy in 2009: Bruised and Battered by Myths and Hype
Web Master January 21, 2010 5 Comments 2009 yearend report, globalization
By SONNY AFRICA
Amid the unfounded hype about a global economic recovery, the challenge for Philippine development remains to be in the direction of defying the imperialist globalization offensive and genuinely building the domestic economy.
Ex-CCP Exec Says Globalization Has Ill Effects on Culture
Web Master February 7, 2009 1 Comment cultural imperialism, globalization, Nanding Josef
Cultural worker, actor and art activist Fernando “Nanding” Josef talks about globalization and cultural imperialism. He insists that both are detrimental to the indigenous arts and culture of the Filipinos. BY NOEL SALES BARCELONA Correspondent Bulatlat CULTURE For Fernando “Nanding” Josef, former vice president and artistic director of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP),…
Youth Group: Pro-US Policies to Blame for Mass Lay-offs
Web Master February 3, 2009 1 Comment Anakbayan, global economic crisis, globalization, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo
BY ALEXANDER MARTIN REMOLLINO Bulatlat MANILA — Members of Anakbayan and other youth groups staged a rally at the US Embassy here this morning to take the US to task for its role in the global economic crisis. They also lambasted the Arroyo administration for implementing what they described as pro-US policies, which they say…
Groups Slam Senate ‘Railroading’ of RP-Japan Trade Deal
Web Master October 9, 2008 Economy & Business, globalization, Japan, Philippines, trade agreement
BY ALEXANDER MARTIN REMOLLINO Bulatlat Two groups opposed to the Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA) have condemned what they described as the “railroading” of the treaty last night at the Senate. The JPEPA was approved, close to midnight, with a vote of 16-4. Those who voted “Yes” were Senate President Manuel Villar, Senate President Pro-Tempore…
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Sollicitanten
Foreign Brides For Japanese Farmers
The web site allows importing more than one picture, whereas a single photograph reveals only one aspect of a person. Moreover, the design itself offers some tips about what members are to indicate in their profiles to succeed in their task. Whenever you will date Japanese ladies, bear in mind time-management.
Where To Find Frightful Family Fun In L A. And O.c. This Halloween Season
Only then, after a full investigation are they allowed to talk with precise folks. You might need been born in the United States whereas your perfect woman might reside in Russia. Or, if we take a more straightforward reply, that we simply weren’t fortunate enough to seek out the one.
You need to formally connect your life with another particular person. From an early age, they were raised in a approach to give greater than they take. Sincerity and decency are the main foundations for them. Every bride believes modesty adorns a person; this opinion is also shared by almost every fiancé. It is no marvel that each second man values the Japanese bride for sale. There was a story in The New York Times of a girl from the Philippines who went to a small Japanese village and won over the townsfolk to such an extent that a fellow farmer married her sister. As a result, a complete foreign marriage brokering business has developed.
On Thursday afternoon, people have been contacting Clarke immediately on her Twitter account. Clarke’s net sequence/proof of concept Mail Order Family posted on Vimeo was rapidly taken down after members of the API neighborhood, together with Jeff Yang, viewed and derided the video. Under present laws, immigrant spouses are issued conditional green playing cards, which allow them to stay and work on this nation for two years. If the wedding stays intact at the end of that conditional interval, the couple can then file papers and schedule an in-person interview to use for permanent residency and eventual citizenship. Many of the men looking for out this service are considerably older than the ladies they contract to marry, although some businesses encourage their clients to remain inside a 20-year distinction in age. Clearly, an annual determine of four,000 to five,000 new Americans arriving by way of the “mail-order bride” route is a small figure in comparison with whole immigration of more than one million. Moreover, these newcomers, unlike refugees and other immigrant teams who focus in particular city areas, are typically dispersed over a large geographic range, additional diminishing any influence they may have.
To make every Japanese lady feel wanted, the positioning designs the positioning in a means the place everyone communicates lots with one another. It recommends every bride to several potential partners to achieve an lively interplay. Here, virtually every Japanese person is matrimony-oriented. They don’t perceive social media and such web sites as something the place one can solely have enjoyable. With the most critical intentions, every bride conscientiously fulls the profile and begin searching. With free sign-up and a few primary features given for free as well, Japanese singles right here can talk so much to define who’s worth additional dating or matrimony. Brides submit bright footage to attract male attention.
Step One: Find A Reliable Dating Website
Even when you had been born with a large capability for love and you might be able to quiet down, your excellent associate may not be in the same location as you. Love is essentially the most fundamental of feelings; we reside for it and attempt to find one thing like it throughout our lives. It is a biological pull that is deeply set into our DNA. According to analysis, each https://yourmailorderbride.com/japanese-brides/ single particular person on the planet has fallen in love at least ones – some do it fairly often. Relationships lengthWe suppose it’s essential to find your love. Every girl that wishes to find a husband however has failed to do so in her nation can register on such an internet site. Their functions are reviewed, and the women are required to submit some documentation as proof of validity.
These paperwork could be an ID card, passport, driver’s license and proof of handle. Every individual on the web site is required to take a psychology take a look at to find out that they’re of sound mind.
Where You Can Find Japanese Wife
Encounters International, for example, stories that the fifty three couples who’ve married during the company’s three years of existence reside in 12 different states . In phrases of age, 20 p.c are years of age, 41 p.c are 21-25, 24 percent are 26-30, eleven percent 31-35, and just four p.c over the age of 35. A skilled portrait of a Japanese American girl and her youngster | Image Courtesy of the USC Digital Archives. We additionally believe that it is even more necessary to keep love by your facet. We talked to couples who have been still collectively after a number of years. These couples met on web sites similar to those we’ve been discussing. We have some interviews with them in our romance section.
If you suppose that deviation in 5 minutes isn’t an enormous deal, you higher change your mind. Whether it’s already matrimonial relationships or simply the stage before, it’s important. Sometimes, it is even great to return sooner than Japanese magnificence. Real mailorder Bride Service Can Not allow you to Pick If You Do Not Need To Another of the prevalent myths is a web-based service won’t allow you to select should you’d like to marry him. Yeah, positive, women / men from different nations are totally different. You really feel a deep want to explain a fantasy life and demand you know all about me. You know nothing of my physical physique, religion or no faith, you understand nothing of my intelligence and yet you desperately hope I am what your limited thoughts manifests of me.
Brides need to take a look at the facial expressions while it’s the reflections of what we really feel. The first and obvious factor is simply to complete your enroll. Neither a site nor Japanese women for matrimony like when a man doesn’t tell the truth.
Before you begin cringing on the implications, think about that there has at all times been a convention of organized marriages in Japan, so it’s not quite so strange an idea. Add to this the truth that in rural areas, there have always been agencies that helped with matchmaking. Whenever you are feeling the urgent want to chat with the bride from Japan, use AsiaMe.com to do it comfortably and shortly. AsiaMe.com offers a number of providers for each member to make use of to seek out matrimonial happiness. The first simple and all over the place ubiquitous one is chatting. However, with typing our messages, Japanese women can’t see our true emotions.
juni 2, 2020 /door admin
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Indigenous Women’s Access To Justice In Latin America The Great, The Bad and Hot Korean Women
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Bleeding Quill
The Creative Writing Portfolio of William Wismer
Trashland
Trashland Ch.1
wismerw trashland February 28, 2020 November 21, 2020 8 Minutes
The Trash Sea sat calm in the morning gloom. Only a gentle churn disturbed its vast surface, too weak to budge anything but the lightest and smallest of objects. Ahead, Kay watched as a wave of old plastic bottles slowly formed, the churn pushing it up through the surface like a spoonful of thick molasses. It crested quickly, the flimsy mass falling apart under its own weight and scattering bottles in every direction. Each of them held the surface for only a moment longer, quickly dragged back down into the depths, where they would remain until chance saw fit to bring them back to the surface once again.
Similar events played out all around them, the churn pulling a seemingly endless variety of things to the surface. Kay saw waves of rusty tin cans, discarded action figures, splintered wooden furniture and the smashed remains of computer monitors. Off to one side, her eyes were drawn to a wave of paint cans, split open to spreading bright colours onto the surface. These too were quickly swallowed up, pushed asides to make way for what was to emerge next.
Just another day on the Trash Sea. Just as it always had been, just like it probably always to be.
“You’re drifting,” Oscar said.
Looking away from the horizon, Kay glanced over to look at her co-pilot. How he knew anything about their bearing, she had no idea. The man hadn’t even looked up from his console, focused entirely on his task of monitoring the various screens and gauges that controlled the engine. Stooped over like he was, she couldn’t even see his eyes, just the mop of silver streaked red hair atop his head.
“You want to drive old man?” she challenged.
“No, I want you to quit gawking and drive properly.”
Kay gave a mocking scoff, mostly to cover for the fact that she’d just realized he was right. They were off course by a not insignificant margin. As discretely as she could, Kay shifted the controls to set them back on the right track. The Pacific, groaned in protest at the command, incensed at being expected to do actual work. Regardless, the four mechanical legs affixed to the hull got to work, beginning to shift them around inch by crawling inch.
It took nearly ten minutes to complete the course adjustment and fall back into a normal walking rhythm. After a few steps to ensure things were steady, Kay pushed the throttle back up to flank. Immediately the Pacific gave another protest, a violent shudder rattling through the deck. When it persisted for several steps, Oscar swore quietly under his breath.
“Back it off,” he said, rising from his seat. “Pressure’s dropping.”
“The oil again? I thought you fixed that?”
“I repaired it. Clearly its broken again.”
Kay made a strangled sound in the back of her throat. “Why is this ship so old?”
Oscar offered no answer, instead crossing the cramped space of the pilothouse to where his oilskin hung from a hook. Practiced motions had it settled on his shoulders inside of a minute, followed quickly by a respirator over his head.
“You need any help?”
“No, should be an easy enough fix. Just keep us steady, I’ll radio when I’m done.
Kay nodded, taking in a deep breath before Oscar slid the door open. Instantly, a wave of humid foul-smelling air flooded in, so thick that it felt like liquid oil sliding over her skin. Seeking to minimize Kay’s exposure to it, Oscar exited the pilothouse, sliding the door shut behind him with a sharp click. Kay kept the breath held for as long as she could, hoping to give the air purifier time to at least take the edge off. It still tasted like rotten eggs. Doing her best to ignore it, Kay shut down everything save the stabilization gyros and settled in to wait, turning her eyes to resume watching the waves.
No one knew for certain how deep the Trash Sea ran. The detritus of entire generations lay beneath the surface, layer upon layer of discarded things stacked atop one another. It had been the work of no one event or group but instead countless individuals adding to it little by little. What had once been a mere trash heap had grown and expanded until it had become the sprawling behemoth it was today. A vile, stinking blemish on the world that very few went near willingly, let alone entered. Kay had been sailing it for most of her life.
“Alright we’re good,” Oscar’s voice buzzed through the intercom. “Try it.”
“Copy, hold on,” Kay replied, easing the throttle back up to one quarter. The Pacific gave an annoyed groan but obediently fell back into step, legs resuming their forward motion. When no alarms sounded, Kay pushed the throttle up to three quarters, wishing to make up for lost time.
“Easy!” Oscar shouted through the intercom. “Wait for me to get back!”
“Don’t bother, we’re basically there,” Kay sent back. “Go get the crane spun up.”
“You sure?”
“I think I can move us a couple hundred meters on my own. How bad at this do you think I am.”
A pause stretched on, long enough for Kay to glare at the speaker in annoyance.
“Shut up.”
“Didn’t say a thing, heading out.”
“Copy that.”
The connection cut, leaving Kay to focus on steering the ship. Their destination lay just ahead, a section of the Sea where the waves were growing to the size of small hills. A direct result of a stronger churn, able to pull up larger objects from much deeper down. Even as they approached, Kay saw the skeleton of a car burst into view, long since reduced to nothing but rusty framework. Unlike the bottles from before, the car was tough enough to fight the churn, struggling to stay afloat on the uneven surface. It put up an admirable effort but, inevitably, it was dragged down. The Sea did not let things escape so easily.
Kay kept a firm grip on the controls as she steered the Pacific forward into the area. Instantly she felt resistance as the legs stepped down onto the shifting, uneven surface. This was where things got dangerous. The lack of steady ground increased the risk of the legs slipping, potentially tipping it off balance and crashing down into the Sea. In such a state, the Pacific would beno less vulnerable to being dragged under than anything else out here. Any misstep could easily be the end of them.
The thought barely even crossed Kay’s mind as she worked. Practice and instinct guided her hand, driving by feel as much as sight. She wasn’t worried about their chances, having navigated far worse than this many times over. With only a few stumbles, Kay soon had them settled into a relatively stable patch where the gyros could keep them upright without supervision. It left them sat still in the middle of a field of waves, each pulling up a veritable cornucopia of things up from deep below. The perfect ground for dredging.
For all the literal garbage within the Sea, just as much of it sill had value. Metal, paper, plastics, electronics, rubber, treasures of all kinds sitting below the surface. Just waiting for an enterprising individual to dredge them up for sale to the highest bidder. Easy fortunes sitting around for the taking.
Or at least that was the theory. In Kay’s experience, it mostly entailed digging through piles of crap, looking for random bits worth the bother of hauling back to sell as bulk scrap.
Switching the ship over to standby, Kay stood and began donning her own oilskin. The garment was as old as the Pacific, wear and tear making it both look and feel like a burlap sack. Her respirator was little better, its mouthpiece infused with the smell of old sweat, seasoning every breath she took with the aroma. She pulled it over her head anyway, knowing it to be better than the oppressive musk that washed back over her as she stepped outside.
Even stabilized, the Pacific’s deck still rocked gently from the churn, forcing Kay to widen her stance for balance. She took her time crossing to midship, quickly catching sight of Oscar where he sat at the crane. Under his direction, the device began to rise out of the deck, unfolding like a metal wing. As Kay took her position next to the sorting bin, winches squealed to life, pulling on the arm and twisting it out over the side of the ship. From the end dangled the grabbing claw on a length of steel cable. When everything had settled into position, Oscar turned in his seat to look over at Kay.
“Fortune and fillet!” he shouted.
“Pennies and porridge!” Kay shouted back.
It was an utterly silly little ritual, one that her father had started years ago by accident. He’d insisted one day that they were going to find something so valuable that they’d be having fish for dinner that night. One meal of reheated breakfast later had provided the rest of the phrase, a reminder to never get ahead of themselves. Kay hated it but couldn’t bring herself to let it go.
At the press of a button, the claw dropped from the crane into the churn below. It was immediately caught and pulled down, swiftly disappearing beneath the surface with nothing but the cable to mark where it had gone under. Oscar allowed it to sink for several seconds before hitting the recall, cable going taunt as it hauled the claw back up. A shallow dive, testing to see if it was worth the time investment to dredge deeper.
The claw broke the surface, grasping a full load of trash between its pincers. To Kay’s dismay she could see large chunks of organic matter threaded throughout. A bad sign for two reasons. First, it meant the spot was likely no good, and second, it meant she had to go through that disgusting slop to make sure.
Somehow it was even worse than she was expected when Oscar dumped the load into the bin with a wet plop. Kay spent a moment just staring, watching as the semi-liquid compost slowly oozed towards the corners. The smell was bad enough to overpower her respirator, the acrid stanch burning the inside of her nose.
“So uh, want to switch?” Kay shouted up at Oscar.
“Oh no, I did it the last three days. It’s your turn to sort.”
Grumbling, Kay stepped up to the edge of her bin, bracing as she pushed her hands into the muck. It was just as disgusting as she’d expected, warm to the touch and adhering to her gloves despite their wax coating. Trying not to think about what exactly this stuff had once been, Kay sifted through the more solid bits, doing her best to assess without touching anything.
Most of it was crap, worth less than nothing, certainly not the time it had taken to haul it up. A few bits looked more promising, scraps of metal and plastic, but they were the dregs at best, nothing to imply anything more valuable waited below. She kept them regardless, tossing the scraps into the appropriate bins. Dregs or no, little bits could add up.
Judging the load sorted, Kay signaled Oscar to continue by flashing him a thumbs down. He nodded and began to maneuver the crane back over the edge, aiming for a different spot in the churn to continue the search. Kay spent the time using her own controls to tilt the sorting bin over on its side, dropping the worthless contents back into the Sea. Some of it stuck and she had to use a scrapper to push it the rest of the way. She had to fight her gag reflex as the last dredges dribbled away.
Just as she got the bin back level, the next load arrived for her perusal. Somehow this one was even worse than the first, the slop so thick that it barely moved from where it fell, encasing every solid object within truly vile cocoons. Kay wanted to scream but managed to dial it back to an extended sigh.
It was going to be a long day.
Start Home Next
Published by wismerw
View all posts by wismerw
Published February 28, 2020 November 21, 2020
Next Post Trashland Ch.2
8 thoughts on “Trashland Ch.1”
Margaret Santon says:
As usual, an intriguing tale.and beautifully written.
wismerw says:
I’m glad you enjoyed it. Many thanks for the kind words.
Pingback: Bleeding Quill
Beautiful first chapter!
Many thanks, I’m glad you enjoyed it.
J. Chiasson says:
Regarding polish, this needs a touch of work before it’s publish-ready; I noticed a handful of typos, one misused “its”, and a bit of suspect grammar. You might want to double-check your voicing on the prose too, since your descriptions trend towards passive-voice and I don’t think that was what you were aiming for.
I like the picture you’re painting here, but my word of caution would be to avoid overexposition early in the story. Little things like the “fortune and fillet!” exchange don’t need to be dissected by the narration; the audience can get the idea from context, and explaining something that’s by definition normal and unremarkable to the focal characters can’t not draw the reader out of immersion. You can maybe explain it later, but the cold open at least is about drawing in the reader, and getting them invested in the world you’re building around them.
Aside from that, my only immediate suggestion is to think about Oscar and Kay’s voices? They both sound pretty much the same, snarky, cantankerous professionals. Depending on how character-focused the story is, you might want to think about ways to distinguish them in the reader’s mind this early on.
Pingback: Trashland Ch.4 – Bleeding Quill
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2020 Luxury Watch Guide
By Roberta Naas
With the unprecedented health and economic stresses put upon us this year by COVID-19, the concept of time has become monumental. Some of us have too much time on our hands and no place to go to spend that time. Others are busier than ever as we juggle work-from-home zoom calls and social-distance meetings. However, almost all of us are highly aware of time and are planning what we want to do when we can go back into the real (albeit different) world.
Most of the time, a wristwatch accompanies us on our journeys. For some that watch is sporty, for others it’s classic. Yet others want a connected watch to track our moves, and the true lovers of horology and all things mechanical are most likely making that wrist companion a complicated watch — maybe even one with three-dimensional movement architecture.
The thing is, the wristwatch industry – even despite being closed down for several months earlier this year due to the pandemic – is a multi-billion-dollar business that believes in delivering exactly what the customer wants. Variety is the spice of life and watch brands are complying with demands that run the gamut from retro-inspired to racing-inspired and everything in between. Additionally, the new watches making their way (finally) to stores this fall are available in all price ranges, from the affordable below $1,000 realm to the million dollar sky’s-the-limit realm. So, how do you decide which watch (or watches if you’re building a collection) is right for you? There are some good rules of thumb when considering a watch for your adventures – even if that adventure is simply an elegant dinner out at a nice restaurant.
KNOW YOUR MECHANICAL LIKES
Just like when you are buying a car, you know if you like something just by the looks of it. However, you can’t always judge by looks alone. Most likely you have a wish list of what you want under the hood, of the performance you’re looking for and the details inside. The same is true of a watch – looks will draw you in, but make sure the entire package is there. Do you want a self-winding mechanical watch (also called an automatic), or do you want a movement that is manually wound – meaning you have to physically turn the crown to power it up Some people love the ease of the watch winding itself as you wear it; others love the power of breathing life into the watch each time it is wound. Some people don’t care, as long as the watch is mechanical. Think about if this matters to you before you start shopping.
Another important consideration is your interests and hobbies. If you are a car enthusiast, you may want to look at racing-inspired watches from brands that partner with vintage rallies, contemporary super-speed races or even racecar drivers. If you’re a lover of all things vintage, you may want to look at the recreations of yesteryear that many brands are unveiling today to pay homage to their roots. Similarly, if you are into diving or aviation, there are entire genres of watches that go the distance with you and also speak volumes on your wrist about who you are and what you enjoy. For those who love the idea of a smart watch, Apple is not the only option. Today so many of the traditional watch brands are creating top-notch hybrid connected watches that offer dynamite dials and still perform the functions you want.
DON’T BUY BLINDLY
One of the most important things to know before you shop is your budget. You have no idea how fast the prices can jump when it comes to watchmaking.This is because – just like a car – some watches are hand-made with exacting attention to detail and in one-off or limited editions. Others have a certain amount of hand craftsmanship involved, but also utilize today’s top production processes and are more readily available.
DON’T DISCOUNT THE LITTLE GUY
In addition to the big-brand names we all know off the tops of our heads, there is an entire category of smaller, independent watchmaker brands that have a lot to offer when it comes to horology. Many of these brands create smaller numbers of watches that offer think-outside-of-the-box designs and features.
LOOK FOR NEWNESS
There are also a host of great watch brands on the market that are either names you may not have heard of because they are either relatively new to the U.S. market, or relatively new to the watch market as a whole. Just because you never heard of the brand, don’t shy away from it. Ask questions and be open-minded to newness in ideas and brand names.
In the end, though, these four words should be your governing theme: Buy what you like.
Blue Blast
An incredible work of architecture, color, mechanics and geometrics, the new Ulysse Nardin Blue Blast takes you on a mesmerizing journey into its soul. A simple tour around the three-dimensional skeletonized movement – the UN 172 automatic caliber – and you won’t take your eyes off your wrist. The watch boasts a silicium flying tourbillon inside an X-shaped cage and surrounded by a multitude of finishes. The barrel of the watch – located at 12:00 on the non-existent dial – is highly visible and evokes a sense of power and authority. This version is crafted in titanium with a PVD/DLC coating and ceramic upper middle case and bezel. The Ulysse Nardin Blast was 18 months in the making and features some exceptionally ingenious technology and mechanics.
The movement was incredibly well thought-out and boasts alluring features such as the tripletoothed round bezel and the double X clamp that joins the movement in a sandwich style. There is even a patented three-blade system on the self-deploying strap buckle that snaps open with a single clasp. There are four versions available, including this Blue Blast, the Rose Gold Blast seen on the cover, a Black Blast and a White Blast. The Blue Blast, with titanium middle case, blue titanium bezel, blue brass rectangular bridge, blue tourbillon cage and the double X pattern is both blue and grey.
Ultrathin Tourbillon Koi
Utilizing one of its most sophisticated movements for this elegant lotus and koi fish adorned watch, Arnold & Son brings technical prowess and artistic mastery to the forefront. This 42mm 18-karat 5N rose gold watch is equipped with the manually wound A&S8200 one-minute flying tourbillon (an escapement that compensates for errors in timekeeping due to the effects of gravity when the watch is in certain positions on the wrist). The tourbillon escapement, which constantly rotates, is located in an aperture at 6:00, opposite the smaller dial that indicates the hours and the minutes. The rest of the dial is freed up for the miniature painting of lotus flowers and koi fish – all on a black mother-of-pearl dial. The watch highlights Arnold & Son’s tradition of bespoke excellence.
Nebula 38 Steel
Aptly named Nebula because its architectural three-dimensional open-worked movement recalls an inverted star, this watch is a favorite among collectors. Here, Swiss brand Arnold & Son reflects on its British history to create a highly technical caliber inside a clean and sophisticated case. The A&S5101 hand-wound mechanical movement showcases its gears, wheels and balance on the dial side, where the dial has been reduced to a black lacquer flange. The symmetry of the seven bridges that span the four axes is like a dream to lovers of mechanical wonders. The 38mm case features a sapphire crystal case back for unobstructed views of the machine inside. It is offered for the first time in stainless steel.
Eberhard 1887
Scafograf 300 MCMLIX
This bold re-edition of the original Scafograf 300 dive watch that burst onto the scene in the 1960’s is a perfect rendition of a vintage-inspired tool watch. Eberhard was a leader in dive watches – releasing the first Scafograf (water resistant to 100 meters) in 1959 and then moving on to greater water resistance in the ensuing years, moving from 100, to 200, 300 and even, eventually 1000 meters. The 43mm stainless steel automatic winding dive watch – the MCMLIX version – recalls the Roman numerals of the year the Scafograf collection was born. It is built according to the strictest codes and boasts a unidirectional rotating black ceramic bezel, curved sapphire glass and a helium escape valve at 9:00. The black dial features hands and markers with vintage-style luminescence. The case back features a starfish engraved on it.
Nuvolari Legend “The Brown Helmet”
Easily one of the most important European racing legends of yesteryear, Tazio Nuvolari holds a special place in the watch line-up of Eberhard 1887. The brand has an entire collection dedicated to this master and it is one of the most sought-after by car lovers around the world. The newest, “The Brown Helmet” watch, is a vintage-inspired chronograph that takes its color way of warm brown dial from the soft leather driving helmet (as well as the vest and the gloves) of the famed racer. Hence the name, “The Brown Helmet.” The 43mm stainless steel Nuvolari Legend is inspired by the pocket chronograph from the 20th century that Nuvolari carried, but it boasts a thoroughly modern mechanical movement with automatic winding and two counters. The watch features a tachymeter spiral scale in hours and kilometers and the case back offers a checkerboard motif recalling the starting flag in racing.
Big Bang MP-11 Red Magic
There is no color as powerful as red, and when Hublot tackles it – creating it in high-tech ceramic – very little can rival it. This Big Bang MP-11 watch deftly combines horological prowess with state-ofthe-art technology. The three-dimensional Caliber HUB9011 manual-wind movement, made in-house, offers an incredible 14 days of power reserve thanks to the seven barrels on the lower portion of the dial. A portion of the 270 parts of the movement, including gears and wheels, is visible on the top half of the watch. The magnificent case is made of the brand’s exclusive high-tech ceramic that was developed in its Research and Development laboratory and is protected by three patents for the machining and components. Just 100 pieces will be made.
Big Bang e
Hublot has been creating connected watches in the traditional watchmaking realm since 2018, but this new iteration of the brand’s Big Bang offers cutting-edge updated design. The 42mm Big Bang e is crafted of light-weight titanium. The numerals and markers on the bezel are placed beneath the sapphire crystal, which is covered with an AMOLED high-definition touch screen. Like a traditional mechanical Big Bang, the crown controls the electronic functions thanks to its integrated pusher. The new functions include digital interpretations of traditional watch complications, such as the perpetual calendar (shown here) with precise moon phase indication. New dials will be unveiled, as well. The connected portion of the watch is powered with Wear OS by Google™. Even with its digital technology, the watch is water resistant to 30 meters.
Avanti 6 Macassar
Have a half a dozen watches or more that you want to keep wound? The Avanti 6 Macassar winder offers modular appeal and is Orbita’s most popular winder. Designed to wind six watches, it also has two storage drawers for other timepieces. Each watch has its own power switch, allowing stations not in use to be switched off. The Avanti 6 is sold with either the Orbita Programmable technology or with Orbita’s patented Rotorwind technology. The case is covered in exotic Macassar veneer on the sides and features a carbon fiber front and trim – adding a cutting-edge, impressive appeal. There is also a key lock on the tempered glass front.
Voyager Travel Winder
While you may be still quarantining, and not traveling as much, you might be taking some road trips and Orbita’s Voyager Travel Winder is ready to go with you. The Voyager comes in a cylindrical carrier that features a mounting system similar to its Futura winders, so it sets up in a snap to keep your watch perfectly wound. Simply take the winder base and mount out of the cylinder case and set it on the desk, press a button and watch the magic happen. The winder is powered by four AAA batteries, or by the supplied AC/DC adapter. The base, the mount and even the mounted watch fit securely in a suedelined leather carry case. It measures a scant 4” H x 6” W x 4” L.
Vortic Watch Company
Military Edition-Second Edition
American-based Vortic is known for its unique work taking original pocket watch movements and transforming them into incredible wristwatches. Each year on Veterans Day (November 11), the brand introduces a 50-piece Military Edition timepiece. Last year’s watches sold out in just under eight hours. For this year’s 2020 edition, the brand releases the Second Edition Military piece that is built using the movement, dial and hands of a pocket watch originally made for the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. That watch, the Master Navigational Watch, was used by navigators on American bomber planes. The movements have been meticulously restored by Vortic.
Chicago Railroad 039
The unique watch brand Vortic is known for salvaging and restoring antique pocket watches – preserving their original integrity – and transforming them into unique wristwatches. There is no serial production here. There is no mass marketing. Instead, the watchmakers and engineers at Vortic create one-of-a-kind conversation pieces that recall American history. This Chicago Railroad 039 watch is the first pocket watch to be completely made in the USA since the 1960s. It was the first pocket watch the brand made and it was sold within a half an hour. The case was cut at Vortic’s Colorado manufacturing facility from a block of bronze and a vintage chain was sourced to match the patina. The movement, hands and dial are all original from a Railroad Grade Elgin pocket watch that was made in 1922. This example of the work Vortic executes sold for
Churchill British Racing Green
For those who love watch collecting as much as car collecting, having the perfect safe is critical. WOLF has you covered with its bespoke safe series – made to order exactly as you wish. A fine example is this handmade British Racing Green Churchill Safe that brings the vintage 1920s international motor racing color to the forefront. Forged in steel, it features a distinctive three-dimensional angled panel across the front of the safe, with fine detailing such as goldcolored hardwood and pebbled leather. Top-grain leathers, rare woods or paneling can also be custom ordered. The Bluetooth-controlled watch winders precisely count the turns per day using WOLF’s patented technology. The interior of each safe can also be tailored by adding drawers or additional winders.
WOLF’s bespoke safes retail starting at $95,995.00
British Racing Green Triple Watch Winder
If a large safe is just too much for your current collection, take a look at the WOLF Triple Watch Winder, shown here in British Racing Green leather. The lush, vegan-friendly, pebble-grained leather features a quad-angled, three-dimensional lid, a glass front to view the watches as they wind and gold foil accents and hardware. The cushion-close hinges make for easy opening and closing and there is storage at the top of the winder box for five additional watches. Only a WOLF winder counts the exact number of rotations with a patented innovation and rotation options can be set between 300 and 1,200 turns per day. It also features winding clockwise, counter-clockwise and bi-directionally.
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Gold Rolex “Paul Newman” Sells for $3.7 Million, Most Expensive of its Kind
in Watches
At Phillips’ recent Geneva Watch Auction, a rare Rolex Daytona known as “The Legend” went up for auction and ended up selling for a record price. The 18k yellow gold Rolex Oyster watch with a “Paul Newman” dial ended up selling for $3.7 million, making it the most expensive Daytona ever sold.
This is what Hodinkee.com had to say about the winner of the watch: “The eventual winner even decided to get up and walk out of the auction room before Aurel Bacs finally dropped his gavel. He turned around just in time to hear confirmation of his winning bid, but he was the first person out of the auction room. Perhaps he was just keen on getting his hands on his new watch.” That’s a pretty epic exit.
According to the watch’s listing on Phillips.com, it is the three known and correct example of its kind to ever appear in public. They also noted that for decades, a yellow gold Paul Newman wristwatch, like this one with screw down pushers, has been the subject of mystery for collectors and scholars. This was because the existence of such a watch was unknown. Well, now we know that they do exist and they cost a pretty penny.
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Lex Bytes
Review of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Policy of India For Curbing Opportunistic Takeovers/ Acquisitions of Indian Companies Due to The Current COVID-19 Pandemic
Prithiviraj Senthil Nathan
Points Covered: Chinese direct FDI Investments and indirect investments from other jurisdictions, Investments by Venture Capital Funds and Private Equity Funds with Chinese LPs, Retrospective Effect and Exemptions.
FDI Policy To Save Indian Companies From Takeover Amid COVID
Foreign investments into India are bound by the Foreign Direct Investment (“FDI”) Policy issued by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India (“Government”) from time to time. The changes to the said policy are reported in a form a press note and suitable amendments will be made to the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 2000 (“Forex Laws”). Per FDI Policy, non-resident entities are allowed to invest in India, subject to the FDI Policy except in those sectors/activities which are prohibited for foreign investment.
The Government has, vide a press note dated April 18, 2020, revised this position and stated that investment in India by non-resident entities of countries, which share a land border with India i.e., Pakistan, Bangladesh, China, Nepal, Myanmar, Bhutan and Afghanistan (“Border States”) or where the beneficial owner (“Beneficial Owner”) of investment into India is situated or is a citizen of any such Border States, such investments will be permitted only under the Government approval route. Please note that the restrictions apply even in the event of the transfer of ownership of any existing or future FDI in an entity in India, directly or indirectly, resulting in the beneficial ownership falling within the restriction.
Our comments are interspersed below:
Investments into India from the Border States including China from now on requires approval from the Government. The approval will also be required in cases where a transfer of ownership in an Indian company results in the Beneficial Owner falling within the Border States. It is pertinent to note that the term ownership is not defined but reference in this regard may be drawn to the definition prescribed in the Master Direction – Foreign Investment in India which states Ownership of an Indian company as the beneficial holding of more than 50 per cent of the capital instruments of such company.
The aforementioned restrictions shall notably apply to the beneficial owners for the investments made into India. It is pertinent to note that the term Beneficial Owner is not defined in the Press Note. Section 90 of the Companies Act, 2013 read with the Companies (Significant Beneficial Owners) Rules, 2018 (“Companies Act”) mentions the term Significant Beneficial Owner (“SBO”) as against the beneficial owner.
It states SBO is an individual who either alone or together with other individuals or trust, exercises rights or entitlements in a company by way of holding 10% shares or 10% voting rights or right to receive 10% or more dividend, both indirect and direct holdings or right was taken together or such individual exercise significant influence or control, indirectly or along with direct holding in the Company.
Reporting and Guidelines to identify Beneficial Owner has also been prescribed under the Securities and Exchange Board of India regulations. Further per provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 (“PMLA”) “Beneficial Owner” is defined as an individual who ultimately owns or controls an entity or the person on whose behalf a transaction is being conducted and includes a person who exercises ultimate effective control over a juridical person.
The provisions of the PMLA mandates the financial institutions to conduct diligence on the customers to identify Beneficial Owner and prescribes reporting requirements. Since the purpose of the policy is meant to curb “opportunistic takeovers/acquisitions of Indian companies” due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, there is a strong possibility of government taking the view that Beneficial Owner will have the same meaning of Significant Beneficial Owner.
Chinese FDI Investments from other jurisdictions
The initiative by the Government is to block direct investments from China. But going by the definition of Beneficial Owner (and interpreting the definition of the term used in the other laws), one can infer that the revised position would also impact investments from other jurisdictions where Beneficial Owners intended to or have invested more than 50 per cent of the capital instruments of an Indian company through special purpose vehicles (“SPV”).
If a Chinese citizen, living or corporate person, has an interest in such an SPV in a foreign jurisdiction, the same will be deemed as an indirect investment. “Ownership of an India Company” has been defined as the beneficial holding of more than 50 per cent of the capital instruments of the Indian Company. Usually, investments in India from the Border States will be structured by creating SPV in Hong Kong, Singapore, Mauritius, Netherlands or other jurisdictions to avail tax treaty benefits under the respective double taxation avoidance agreements (executed by India with these countries).
With the revised position, it appears that Government approval will be required for – a) all the future investments through SPV, if there is a Chinese element, which results in a situation of Beneficial Ownership; and/or b) transfer of more than 50% of capital instruments of the Indian Company by the SPVs where the Beneficial Owner is from the Border States.
Investments by Venture Capital Funds and Private Equity Funds with Chinese LPs
If a VC or PE fund has a Chinese LP who falls within the definition of Beneficial Owner, they will have to seek government approval for investments into Indian companies.
This regulation has a retrospective effect, meaning that all previous transactions before the date of the current press note and involving existing investments from land bordering countries, including China, will need to seek government approval for buying/ selling and/or transacting in shares/ debt instruments if it results in a transfer of beneficial ownership. This also renders several Chinese investments locked up, until further clarification/ instruction by the government.
This order of the government does not provide for any restriction on investments into India by Chinese companies under the Foreign Institutional Investor (FII) or Foreign Portfolio Investor (FPI) route.
This is a step to avoid investments and takeover of Indian listed and unlisted companies and their subsequent control, directly or indirectly, by Chinese Companies.
Contributed By –
Jidesh Kumar – Managing Partner
[email protected] – +91 99722 25878
Prithiviraj Senthil Nathan – Partner
King Stubb & Kasiva,
Advocates & Attorneys
New Delhi | Mumbai | Bangalore | Chennai | Hyderabad | Kochi
Tel: +91 11 41032969 | Email: [email protected]
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Greenhouse Wall
Posted on November 25, 2011 June 29, 2014 by Randall R Bresee
I discussed a photo of a door located at Gibson Greenhouses in the last blog post and today we will discuss another image acquired at the greenhouse complex. Today’s image along with six other photographs from the complex can be seen at http://www.RandallRBreseePhoto.com by clicking on the “Galleries” tab at the top and then clicking on the “Gibson Greenhouses” image to view small thumbnails of all seven photos. Move the cursor over a thumbnail and then click to view a larger image.
I generally work very deliberately to incorporate important scene attributes into a photograph, including things that are abstract. In my photograph “Athabasca Indians Keeping Watch,” for example, I tried to visually develop a feeling that native Indian spirits were present at the scene. The dominant scene attribute for today’s post was very concrete and visually obvious. A greenhouse is designed to allow an impressive amount of light to pass through its walls and roof and the specific goal of today’s image was to produce a print which conveyed the feeling of an enormous amount of light falling onto a greenhouse wall.
When I arrived at the greenhouse, the wall was fully illuminated by direct sunlight except for shadows produced by vertical pipes. This seemed like an excellent opportunity to capture an impressive amount of light but I decided that a uniformly illuminated wall provided a limited sense of bright light even though the light was very strong. I thought strong sunlight could be sensed by the human brain more readily if it was compared with light that is not as strong. Contrasting bright, direct sunlight with soft, indirect light ought to allow the eye and mind to provide meaning to the bright sunlight more readily.
I decided to wait until the shadow from the roof overhang high on the wall moved lower to add contrasting light to the wall and I returned an hour later to find the shadow from the overhang stretching nicely down the wall. The wall’s lower region was illuminated brightly by direct sunlight whereas its upper region was shadowed by the roof overhang and illuminated only indirectly by the blue sky. This contrast seemed to more effectively communicate a sense of bright light than earlier when the wall was illuminated nearly uniformly by bright sunlight.
Two composition decisions were quickly made. First, I decided to hurry so an image could be acquired before the shadow from the roof overhang moved low enough to reach the concrete blocks. I wanted to position the line of contrast (direct versus indirect illumination) on the textured glass panes of the wall. A position located precariously close to the concrete blocks was selected to add tension to the image.
Second, the wall was flat physically so I decided to prominently incorporate one of the gutter pipes in the composition. The wall was seriously flat between the pipes and a pipe provided the best opportunity to add much needed depth to the image.
I knew the photograph would benefit by using a slightly wide-angle lens because it would allow me to get closer to the subject and “pull” the pipe out of the wall better to emphasize depth. I selected a 120 mm lens for my 4inch x 5inch camera (a “normal” lens for a 4×5 is 150 mm) and set up the camera quite low to the ground so approximately half of the scene was illuminated by direct sunlight and half was illuminated only indirectly by blue sky. I hoped that dividing the image nearly in half would direct attention toward the interface between harsh sunlight and soft shadows.
The ground glass of my view camera showed that textures illuminated acutely by direct sunlight contrasted nicely with soft shadows illuminated indirectly by blue sky. I felt the composition would effectively communicate the enormous presence of bright sunlight in the image and I was excited by what I saw on the ground glass.
My light meter indicated that the exposure would be straightforward. The darkest wood frames surrounding the glass panes (located slightly above the concrete blocks) were placed on Zones I-II (nearly black with no texture – very dark with slight texture) to form a solid visual “anchor” for the image. The brightest areas of the scene were located on small sections of the curved pipe which reflected sunlight strongly and those areas fell on Zone VIII-IX (very bright with slight texture – nearly white with no texture). Since I wanted the feeling of strong sunlight to dominate the image and the brightest areas of the pipe were small, placing the brightest areas quite high on the exposure scale was fine and normal film development was appropriate.
My light meter is a one degree spot meter which can sample small areas of a scene. A spot meter was indispensable for measuring the brightness of this scene and determining the appropriate exposure for it.
The cloudless sky provided plenty of light so a sheet of Kodak Tri-X black & white film (ASA 320) was exposed for 1/30 sec at f/32-45 (read as half way between f/32 and f/45). I was excited and hoped the photograph captured the feeling of bright light flooding the wall that I experienced.
I scanned the 4inch x 5inch black & white negative with a drum scanner by capturing 5,000 ppi with 16-bit pixel depth. The scan was straightforward and no adjustments were needed during scanning.
Editing the image in PhotoShop was easy. I began with a global curve modification (i.e. the curve for the whole image was adjusted). Dark pixels of the image were darkened by bending the dark section of the curve downward. Bright pixels were brightened by bending the bright section of the curve upward except for the brightest pixels of the photo (gray levels brighter than 238) which were not altered.
The global curve modification strengthened the image but I remained surprised that the texture of the glass panes was weaker in the image than what I recalled at the scene. I realized the glass was weak on film because so much light filled the inside of the greenhouse that the dark and middle tones of the panes were brighter than I anticipated. It was clear that their dark and middle image tones needed darkening to achieve adequate texture.
I used PhotoShop’s Magnetic Lasso tool to select shaded areas in the upper half of the photo and modified the curve for the selected areas. The curve was bent downward substantially for dark tones, bent downward less for midtones and bent downward only slightly for bright tones so darker pixels were darkened progressively more than brighter pixels. This strengthened the texture of the glass considerably and added some “weight” to the wood frames around the glass panes.
Local retouching using PhotoShop’s Burn and Dodge tools was performed next. A few large shadowed areas of the concrete blocks were so dark that they pulled the viewer’s eyes off of the glass panes. Those areas were lightened by dodging to reduce their weight and help keep viewer’s eyes on the textured glass. This was important because a key editing goal was to contrast bright, sunlit areas with soft, shadowed areas and the interface between these two areas was located on the glass panes above the concrete blocks.
Next, I wanted to direct viewer attention more strongly to the interface between bright sunlit areas and soft, shadowed areas. This was accomplished by increasing contrast at the interface in a way that could be viewed loosely as edge enhancement on a macro level. Shadowed areas near the interface were burned slightly darker whereas sunlit areas near the interface were dodged slightly brighter. This emphasized the interface in a way that is similar to enhancing edges during image sharpening by darkening and brightening pixels at the edges. My edit was applied manually with local burning and dodging over areas that included several hundred pixels on both sides of the interface but its effect was analogous to edge enhancement using ordinary image sharpening.
Comparing my edited and unedited images showed that the edit increased contrast at the interface and effectively pulled viewer’s eyes toward the interface.
Small sunlit portions of the pipe were brightened by dodging to enhance the feeling of blazing sunlight reflecting off of the pipe. Light also was added to the pipe’s shadow on the concrete blocks to further increase the feeling of strong light in the lower half of the photograph. Several small areas of the concrete blocks also were brightened by dodging to strengthen the feeling of strong, bright sunlight.
Finally, I identified a few small areas of high contrast near edges of the photograph that pulled the viewer’s eyes off of the image. The contrast in these areas was reduced by burning and/or dodging.
Today’s image feels right to me when printed to a small size that can be held in the hand (e.g. 11 inch x 14 inch).
The subject of this photograph was the presence of an enormous amount of sunlight falling on a greenhouse wall. For me, the final image successfully captured the feeling of bright light flooding the wall which I experienced at the scene. Any comments you might have about the image, the photographic approach used for it, its composition, or image workup will be appreciated.
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Los Angeles Chargers defensive end Joey Bosa. (AP Photo)
Chargers’ Joey Bosa on his sack that sparked rally in win over Cardinals
The original plan was to ease Joey Bosa back into the Los Angeles Chargers’ lineup, limiting his appearances to third downs.
That went out the window last week, when the defensive end wound up playing 31 snaps against the Denver Broncos in his first game back from a bruised bone in his left foot suffered in August.
Los Angeles Chargers defensive end Joey Bosa. (SiriusXM NFL Radio Photo)
‘This week was a lot more about preparing to play football’
On Sunday, Bosa’s snap count increased to 33 and he helped the Chargers to a 45-10 victory against the Arizona Cardinals.
“I put myself and my foot through a lot last week, knowing that I could have confidence in it and knowing that I’m going to be OK playing a game,” Bosa told Zig Fracassi on NFL Rewind. “So this week was a lot more just about preparing to play football rather than worrying about my body.”
‘Yeah, it was rough start, but I think it says a lot about our defense and our team to be able to rally’
After the Chargers fell behind by 10 points, Bosa had a big sack that sparked a rally. When the Chargers closed to within three points, they lost a fumble, the Cardinals missed a field goal and the Chargers proceeded to score five straight touchdowns. Philip Rivers tied an NFL completion record by connecting on 25 passes in a row to start the game for 224 yards and three touchdowns.
“Yeah, I think that was a great series for our defense, being able to come out, sudden change after the turnover and being able to stop them and obviously missing the field goal,” Bosa said. “But I think, after that, it kind of got the ball rolling. From there, we just wanted to dominate. Yeah, it was rough start, but I think it says a lot about our defense and our team to be able to rally and kind of dominate the rest of the game there.”
Check out more exclusive interviews with NFL players all week on SiriusXM NFL Radio (Ch. 88).
NFL, Sports
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Blue Mood Café
Sharing My Eclectic Reading
Saturdays at the Café
April 11, 2020 April 11, 2020 Jonetta (Ejaygirl) | Blue Mood Café
Saturdays at the Café is a weekly feature hosted here to talk about and discuss the books I’ve discovered during the past week, added to my shelf and am excited about reading. They may be new/scheduled releases I’ve seen on NetGalley, at the library, or from publishers or they may be older titles my friends have reviewed and shared on Goodreads or blogs.
Two broken hearts find love and healing in each other in this sexy contemporary romance spin-off from the New York Times best-selling author of the Rock Chick and Dream Man series.
Evie is a bonafide nerd and a hyper-intelligent chick who has only ever been able to rely on herself. So when she decides to earn an engineering degree, she takes a job dancing at Smithie’s club to make the tuition money she needs. But between her lack of dancing skills and an alpha bad boy who becomes overly protective, Evie realizes this gig might not be as easy as she thought.
Daniel “Mag” Magnusson knows a thing or two about pain, but the mask he wears is excellent. No one can tell that this good-looking, quick-witted, and roguish guy has deep-seated issues. Mag puts on a funny-guy routine so he can hide his broken heart and PTSD. But when Evie dances her way into Mag’s life, he realizes that he needs to come face to face with the demons of his past if he wants a future with her.
It’s KA and this will be an auto listen when it’s released next month.
Being young is all about the experiences: the first time you skip school, the first time you fall in love…the first time someone holds a gun to your head.
After being held hostage during a robbery at the local convenience store, seventeen-year-old Edie finds her attitude about life shattered. Unwilling to put up with the snobbery and bullying at her private school, she enrolls at the local public high school, crossing paths with John. The boy who risked his life to save hers.
While Edie’s beginning to run wild, however, John’s just starting to settle down. After years of partying and dealing drugs with his older brother, he’s going straight—getting to class on time, and thinking about the future.
An unlikely bond grows between the two as John keeps Edie out of trouble and helps her broaden her horizons. But when he helps her out with another first—losing her virginity—their friendship gets complicated.
Meanwhile, Edie and John are pulled back into the dangerous world they narrowly escaped. They were lucky to survive the first time, but this time they have more to lose—each other.
I’m collecting books by this author and this audiobook recently showed up at my library. It’s narrated by one of my favorites and reviews are strong.
A Reese’s Book Club x Hello Sunshine Book Pick
“This month we are listening to The Scent Keeper by Erica Bauermeister and y’all…it is SO GOOD! It’s a beautiful story about a young woman, Emmaline, confronting the modern world for the very first time. As she embarks on a journey of digging up her past, she is confronted with truth about love, family, and who she really is. Let’s embark on this magical journey together!” (Reese Witherspoon)
“Woven through [Emmeline’s] life’s journey is a multi-layered story of fragrance and its evocative power, as strong and tenacious as this sensuous novel’s plucky heroine.” (Shelf Awareness)
Erica Bauermeister, the national best-selling author of The School of Essential Ingredients, presents a moving and evocative coming-of-age audiobook about childhood stories, families lost and found, and how a fragrance conjures memories capable of shaping the course of our lives.
Emmeline lives an enchanted childhood on a remote island with her father, who teaches her about the natural world through her senses. What he won’t explain are the mysterious scents stored in the drawers that line the walls of their cabin, or the origin of the machine that creates them. As Emmeline grows, however, so too does her curiosity, until one day the unforeseen happens, and Emmeline is vaulted out into the real world – a place of love, betrayal, ambition, and revenge. To understand her past, Emmeline must unlock the clues to her identity, a quest that challenges the limits of her heart and imagination.
Lyrical and immersive, The Scent Keeper explores the provocative beauty of scent, the way it can reveal hidden truths, lead us to the person we seek, and even help us find our way back home.
This is a Reese Witherspoon pick and as I’ve had excellent experiences with her choices, I got in line at my library for the audiobook. My number finally came up!
Beauty. Wealth. Success.
She’s got it all.
And it all should’ve been mine.
Everything is slipping through Eleanor Hardwicke’s fingers. When her beloved father dies, her world is further shattered by a gut-wrenching secret: the man she’s grieving isn’t really her dad. Eleanor was the product of an affair and her biological father is still out there, living blissfully with the family he chose. With her personal life spiraling, a desperate Eleanor seeks him out, leading her to uncover another branch on her family tree—an infuriatingly enviable half sister.
Perfectly perfect Victoria has everything Eleanor could ever dream of. Loving childhood, luxury home, devoted husband. All of it stolen from Eleanor, who deserves it just as much. Now she plans to take it back. After all, good sisters are supposed to share. And quiet, docile little Eleanor has been waiting far too long for her turn to play.
I received a NetGalley widget for this one but am holding out for the audiobook, hopefully for review. It’s the kind of story I’d prefer to listen to.
There’s something wicked in Burning Lake…
Natalie Lockhart is a rookie detective in Burning Lake, New York, an isolated town known for its dark past. Tasked with uncovering the whereabouts of nine missing transients who have disappeared over the years, Natalie wrestles with the town’s troubled history – and the scars left by her sister’s unsolved murder years ago.
Then Daisy Buckner, a beloved schoolteacher, is found dead on her kitchen floor, and a suspect immediately comes to mind. But it’s not that simple. The suspect is in a coma, collapsed only hours after the teacher’s death, and it turns out Daisy had secrets of her own. Natalie knows there is more to the case, but as the investigation deepens, even she cannot predict the far-reaching consequences – for the victim, for the missing of Burning Lake, and for herself.
I believe it was Toni @ Reading Tonic who first put this on my radar. It showed up at my library and I was in the queue for a few weeks and it finally became available.
It’s impossible to know what you will do…
Every child’s potential is regularly determined by a standardized measurement: their quotient (Q). Score high enough, and attend a top tier school with a golden future. Score too low, and it’s off to a federal boarding school with limited prospects afterwards. The purpose? An improved society where education costs drop, teachers focus on the more promising students, and parents are happy.
When your child is taken from you.
Elena Fairchild is a teacher at one of the state’s elite schools. When her nine-year-old daughter bombs a monthly test and her Q score drops to a disastrously low level, she is immediately forced to leave her top school for a federal institution hundreds of miles away. As a teacher, Elena thought she understood the tiered educational system, but as a mother whose child is now gone, Elena’s perspective is changed forever. She just wants her daughter back.
And she will do the unthinkable to make it happen.
This next book from the author of Vox was offered for audio review and I grabbed it immediately.
Perfect for fans of The Mothers and Olive Kitteridge, in this stunning and perceptive debut novel three women learn what it means to come home–and to make peace with the family, love affairs, and memories they’d once left behind.
“Here are voices from the heartland rendered real, raw, and aching. . . . Reminiscent of Celeste Ng’s Little Fires Everywhere, this novel announces Jeni McFarland as a writer of our generation.” –Aja Gabel, author of The Ensemble
River Bend, Michigan, is the kind of small town most can’t imagine leaving, but three women couldn’t wait to escape. When each must return–Linda Williams, never sure what she wants; her mother, Paula, always too sure; and Beth DeWitt, one of River Bend’s only black daughters, now a mother of two who’d planned to raise her own children anywhere else–their paths collide under Beth’s father’s roof. As one town struggles to contain all of their love affairs and secrets, a local scandal forces Beth to confront her own devastating past.
Filled with the voices of mothers and daughters, husbands, lovers, and fathers, The House of Deep Water explores motherhood, trauma, love, loss, and new beginnings found in a most unlikely place: home.
This was offered for audio review and I was intrigued by the description. It’s a debut novel with early strong reviews so I’m giving it a try.
Don and Mimi Galvin seemed to be living the American dream. After World War II, Don’s work with the Air Force brought them to Colorado, where their twelve children perfectly spanned the baby boom: the oldest born in 1945, the youngest in 1965. In those years, there was an established script for a family like the Galvins–aspiration, hard work, upward mobility, domestic harmony–and they worked hard to play their parts. But behind the scenes was a different story: psychological breakdown, sudden shocking violence, hidden abuse. By the mid-1970s, six of the ten Galvin boys, one after another, were diagnosed as schizophrenic. How could all this happen to one family?
What took place inside the house on Hidden Valley Road was so extraordinary that the Galvins became one of the first families to be studied by the National Institute of Mental Health. Their story offers a shadow history of the science of schizophrenia, from the era of institutionalization, lobotomy, and the schizophrenogenic mother to the search for genetic markers for the disease, always amid profound disagreements about the nature of the illness itself. And unbeknownst to the Galvins, samples of their DNA informed decades of genetic research that continues today, offering paths to treatment, prediction, and even eradication of the disease for future generations.
With clarity and compassion, bestselling and award-winning author Robert Kolker uncovers one family’s unforgettable legacy of suffering, love, and hope.
I initially gave this a pass when offered for audio review and then I read the review by Ren @ What’s Non Fiction and did a complete turnaround. This promises to be a fascinating study, so says Ren and I trust her!
You knew a teenager like Charlie Crabtree. A dark imagination, a sinister smile – always on the outside of the group. Some part of you suspected he might be capable of doing something awful. Twenty-five years ago, Crabtree did just that, committing a murder so shocking that it’s attracted that strange kind of infamy that only exists on the darkest corners of the internet – and inspired more than one copycat.
Paul Adams remembers the case all too well: Crabtree – and his victim – were Paul’s friends. Paul has slowly put his life back together. But now his mother, old and senile, has taken a turn for the worse. Though every inch of him resists, it is time to come home.
It’s not long before things start to go wrong. Reading the news, Paul learns another copycat has struck. His mother is distressed, insistent that there’s something in the house. And someone is following him. Which reminds him of the most unsettling thing about that awful day 25 years ago.
It wasn’t just the murder.
It was the fact that afterward, Charlie Crabtree was never seen again….
New from the author of The Whisper Man, it’s scheduled for release in July and I’m hoping my library takes my recommendation and gets the audiobook. Thanks to Marialyce @ yayareads and her wonderful review for putting in on my radar
In Oak Knoll, a verdant, tight-knit North Carolina neighborhood, professor of forestry and ecology Valerie Alston-Holt is raising her bright and talented biracial son. Xavier is headed to college in the fall, and after years of single parenting, Valerie is facing the prospect of an empty nest. All is well until the Whitmans move in next door―an apparently traditional family with new money, ambition, and a secretly troubled teenaged daughter.
Thanks to his thriving local business, Brad Whitman is something of a celebrity around town, and he’s made a small fortune on his customer service and charm, while his wife, Julia, escaped her trailer park upbringing for the security of marriage and homemaking. Their new house is more than she ever imagined for herself, and who wouldn’t want to live in Oak Knoll? With little in common except a property line, these two very different families quickly find themselves at odds: first, over an historic oak tree in Valerie’s yard, and soon after, the blossoming romance between their two teenagers.
Told from multiple points of view, A Good Neighborhood asks big questions about life in America today―What does it mean to be a good neighbor? How do we live alongside each other when we don’t see eye to eye?―as it explores the effects of class, race, and heartrending star-crossed love in a story that’s as provocative as it is powerful.
I’ve waited in the library queue so long for this audiobook I can’t remember who recommended it! Reviews by my Goodreads friends run the gamut but I found the description interesting.
What books did YOU add to your shelves this week?
Tagged Saturdays at the Café
Published by Jonetta (Ejaygirl) | Blue Mood Café
View all posts by Jonetta (Ejaygirl) | Blue Mood Café
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18 thoughts on “Saturdays at the Café”
Good morning! I did get a chance to read The Shadows and it’s good. I am sure it will be a welcome addition to your reading. I do have the Scent Keeper on my TBR.
I added The Midnight Library by Matt Haig (loved his How To Stop Time), Beach Read by Emily Henry, and The End of Her by Shari Lapena.
Be well and enjoy the day, Jonetta!
Actually, I put The Shadows on my shelf because of you, Marialyce!!! I’ve made the correction above (that’s what I get for trying to multitask…I was watching an episode of Columbo).
I’ve not heard of Matt Haig so I’m looking forward to your review of that book. And of course, Lapena is on my shelf already😏
I can’t say enough how happy I am you’ve joined our book club💜
happytonic says:
Great list, Jonetta, as always! I’ve also added Shadows after reading Marialyce’s review 😁
I’d love to read Christina Dalcher’s new book. Thanks for bringing it to my attention ❤❤❤
The only book I’ve downloaded recently is The End of Her. I’m very happy that it is on your shelf too. Will be looking forward to reading your thoughts on it.
How are doing, Jonetta? Hope you and your family are healthy and staying safe
Thank you for sharing your adds, Toni💜 I’m doing fine and thanks for asking. More importantly, how are you doing? My heart breaks for Italy, the country of my youth. Are you and your family safe?
We are safe and healthy and that’s the most important thing ❤❤❤🌈 Thank you for asking. I know it is the same on your side. 🙏
Nice selection hope you enjoy them 🙂
Thank you, Nicki💜
Northwoman says:
I love the cover on Trust and I like that author/narrator combo as well. I gave Trace of Evil 5 hearts – I hope you enjoy it also.
Have a relaxing, safe week!
Anne – Books of My Heart Here is my Sunday Post
Thank you, Anne💜 I still have her series to start but may just have this one be my first read. Stay safe!
I loved The Scent Keeper! Creative and well written. However I felt a bit letdown by the ending. It wasn’t satisfactory for me and didn’t measure up to the rest of the book. I’m eager to hear what you think!
Oh, that is SO good to know, Carol💜 I added it as a leap of faith in Witherspoon.
Great selection! I’m looking forward to the new Dalcher, I had mixed feelings about Vox so I’m very curious about Q. I’m also curious about the new Alex North, I liked The Whisper Man but I didn’t love it as much as the rest of the world seemed to, so it’ll be interesting to see what I make of this one 😊
Thanks, Kelly💜 I still have both of them to listen to.
Bea's Book Nook (@BeasBookNook) says:
A nice selection as always; enjoy!
Thank you, Bea💜
I loved The Good Neighborhood, Jonetta! I hope you do, too! And Master Class?! Wow, that is a good one! I loved it even more than Vox! Great list of new reads! ❤️
It was probably your review, Jennifer, that put The Good Neighborhood on my radar! Great to know about Master Class.
Christopher | Plucked from the Stacks says:
So many great titles this week! I’m really looking forward to seeing what you think about Sister Dear—sounds wild.
Comment anyone? Cancel reply
The Highlander’s Christmas Countess by Anna Campbell @AnnaCampbellOz
Blog Tour: This is Not the End by Sidney Bell @sidneybellbooks @TantorAudio @CarinaPress
For Now, Forever by Nora Roberts
Return to Virgin River by Robyn Carr @RCarrWriter @HarlequinAudio
Jonetta (Ejaygirl) |… on Blog Tour: This is Not the End…
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Alex on The Highlander’s Christmas Cou…
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BoardroomPR Promotes Zoe Haugen to Multimedia Account Executive
Hannah Colson
BoardroomPR, one of Florida’s largest public relations and integrated marketing agencies, has promoted Zoe Haugen to Multimedia Account Executive.
Haugen takes on the new position with BoardroomPR after serving as a Multimedia/PR Specialist with the firm for over two years. Haugen specializes in managing high-end photo and video production, social media strategy, influencer marketing and blogging. She also works with clients in a variety of industries including real estate, finance, healthcare, construction and hospitality.
Zoe Haugen, Felipe Calderon and Jasmin Curtiss at the 2019 Social Fresh Social Media Conference in Orlando, Florida.
“Zoe is a tech-savvy leader in the company’s digital PR and Marketing departments,” said Todd Templin, Partner and Executive Vice President of BoardroomPR. “Her impressively well-rounded skill set from writing to presenting makes her a valuable asset to our team.”
Zoe Haugen with BoardroomPR client Bonnie Ross, Marketing Director of Fiske & Company at Broward County Bar Association’s 2019 Raising the Bar Seminar.
With her previous experience as an ABC News local and national TV reporter and field producer, she also possesses a deep knowledge and understanding of the media.
“She deservingly earned this new title and we are excited to see her continued success,” said Templin.
Zoe Haugen interviewing BoardroomPR client Haliczer Pettis & Schwamm Florida Civil Litigation Attorneys on video.
Haugen is currently the PR Director of Emerge Broward and deeply involved in the community, playing an instrumental role in not only maintaining client relationships but also developing new business for BoardroomPR.
Zoe Haugen at Emerge Broward 2020 Leadership Launch
“I am grateful to be a member of the most supportive family of coworkers and clients who constantly remind me why I love what I do,” said Haugen. “I look forward to taking on this new role and growing with BoardroomPR as I dive into this amazing opportunity.”
Haugen graduated from the University of Florida with a Bachelor’s degree in Communications. She grew up in Weston, moved to Wisconsin for her career as a Multimedia Journalist and now resides in Fort Lauderdale.
Zoe Haugen with BoardroomPR client Exquisite Catering by Robert’s Owner and CW South Florida TV Anchor Melissa Marrero.
Follow Zoe Haugen on Linkedin, Instagram and Twitter.
tags: best pr firm in south florida, marketing professional, multimedia account executive, multimedia specialist, public relations news, zoe haugen
categorized in: BoardroomPR, Newsroom
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Boatwif
The occasional adventures of the Cleddau crew
Boatwif Blog
Boat Update
Not without trials and tribulations…
A life afloat will never be without its trials and tribulations. Over the years (over the decades, actually) there have been engine emergencies, electrical issues, water discovered in wrong places, failures of domestic equipment and so on. The boating community, thankfully, is always very supportive of others in trouble. On countless occasions the child’s fishing net kept on the front deck has been deployed to scoop up footballs, dogs’ balls – and once, in 2016, to retrieve a pair of...
Seen and heard around Liverpool 3
Salthouse Dock, Liverpool to Burscough: 25 miles, 6 locks, 3 Liverpool Link tunnels, 10 swing bridges So much to see, so much to do… During the week moored in Salthouse Dock there were new places visited and others revisited. Many of the museums in the city are operated under the umbrella of National Museums Liverpool. In these museums the staff wear distinctive turquoise blue shirts which makes them easy to spot; in every location the staff were brimming full...
It was nearly seven years ago when a very particular cruise saga started. Techno Son-in-Law announced that a birthday present for two would be dispatch on a Cruise – a cruise along the Manchester Ship Canal… Arrangements were made, tickets were booked – but, if you read here, you’ll see that due to most unusual circumstances the cruise ended up in a very expensive taxi ride… A boat trip to within sight of Runcorn and a clamber over a wall...
Liverpool – upbeat, lively, self-mocking, positive: that’s the impression gained of Liverpool three years ago – it’s an impression that has not changed. There is much to see – the skyline, the varying shapes and styles of buildings, the UNESCO waterfront, sculptures, museums and art galleries. Yet often it is the incidental remark or chance sighting that sticks in the memory. On the first day as floating residents in Salthouse Dock the Captain and Boatwif made their way (again) to...
Destination Liverpool
Lydiate to Salthouse Dock: 14½ miles, 6 locks, 7 movable bridges and 1 tunnel Only a couple of weeks ago Cheshire Mum and Cheshire One had driven from Macclesfield to Liverpool. Their journey had taken about an hour and a quarter. Cleddau’s journey started about three hours north of Macclesfield – and took something like 62 hours to complete. The last stretch of this 129 mile long cruise was to involve some physical effort, a continuing attention to timing and...
B words: the Bridgewater to THAT bridge…
Dunham Massey to Lydiate: 47 miles, 8 locks, 7 movable bridges B words (not swear words, just B-beginning words): Bridgewater, Burscough, bridge, baked beans, baby, birthday… To back track: eventually, a day later than planned, Cleddau had reached Dunham Massey, and in lieu of the planned “day off” a couple of hours was spent at the Dunham Massey Estate. It was Sunday, it was dry – and it felt a slightly dangerous place, the grounds packed with families and bikes,...
Testing Conditions
Middlewich (Trent & Mersey) – Dunham Massey (Bridgewater Canal): 30¼ miles, 2 locks Any readers of the previous post who got to the end may (or may not!) be awaiting report of a Monkton Moment*. From the overnight mooring just back from the children’s park in Middlewich Cleddau cruised the few hundred yards / metres to Big Lock. This lock is well-named as it is wide enough for two narrow boats side by side or for a wide beam boat… A...
Red Bull Aqueduct (Kidsgrove) to Middlewich: 14 miles, 34 locks Cleddau and crew left the Macclesfield Canal on Tuesday morning to start their descent down the Trent and Mersey Canal to the Cheshire Plain. In 7 miles between Hardings Wood Junction and Wheelock there are 26 locks. Many of them are paired single locks. One lock down and the canal flows underneath the Red Bull / Poole Aqueduct, on which Cleddau had been moored the previous evening. Though several of...
Southbound, on a north west heading
Victoria Pit, Higher Poynton – Red Bull Aqueduct: 23 miles, 13 locks Home for three nights. Mail checked. Admin attended to. Grass cut. Light weight clothes selected… Then it was back to the boat to start the 2019 cruise. The easterly blasts had gone and warm summery temperatures had arrived. There was earnest discussion abut the coal, whether to retain it on board in case of back to winter temperatures or to offload it so as to give more space...
High winds on the High Peak
So, after last year’s disruptions (the breach on the canal at Middlewich, the water shortages that closed Bosley locks), it seemed timely to cruise along all of the Macclesfield Canal from end to end. Once past Victoria Pit Moorings at Higher Poynton it’s about another five miles to the end of the Macc, where it meets the Peak Forest Canal at Marple. Onwards Cleddau cruised then, past many moored boats, past the Man Shed like no other (at Bridge 13),...
Recent Ken & Sue Location
Jaqueline Biggs on Novembers, past and present…
Sue Deveson on Hello Pumpernickel
Carol on Hello Pumpernickel
Boatwif on Hello Pumpernickel
Pip on Hello Pumpernickel
SAN DIEGO TIME
Cleddau
Novembers, past and present…
Hello Pumpernickel
The last stretch ‘home’
The clock rounded
A little bit of a triumph
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The Bob Rosenberg Group
List of articles in category Wilcher Associates
University of Alberta Press
Central European University Press
University of New Orleans Press
Northeastern University Press
Bored Feet Press
University of Utah Press
Wilcher Associates
Publisher Terms
Best of the backlist
Zeno's Picks
Age of Anger: A History of the Present by Pankaj Mishra
Zenosbooks - Zeno's Picks
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The Violent Bear It Away by Flannery O'Connor
The Violent Bear It Away by Flannery O'Connor. New York. 1960. Farrar Straus & Cudahy. 243 pages. hardcover. Jacket design by Milton Glaser. FROM THE PUBLISHER - In this novel Flannery O’Connor is at the top of her powers.[…]
Love, Anger, Madness: A Haitian Trilogy by Marie Vieux-Chauvet
Love, Anger, Madness: A Haitian Trilogy by Marie Vieux-Chauvet. New York. 2009. Modern Library. Translated From The Haitian French By Rose-Myriam Rejouis & Val Vinokur. Introduction By Edwidge Danticat. 381 pages. Jacket design by Thomas Beck Stvan. 9780679643517. August 2009.[…]
This Sweet Sickness by Patricia Highsmith
This Sweet Sickness by Patricia Highsmith. London. 1961. Heinemann. 240 pages. hardcover. Cover by Jack Whitsett. FROM THE PUBLISHER - This Sweet Sickness is a chilling novel. David Kelsey was a brilliant young chemist, and the firm he[…]
The Great Camouflage: Writings of Dissent (1941-1945) by Suzanne Cesaire
The Great Camouflage: Writings of Dissent (1941-1945) by Suzanne Cesaire. Middletown. 2012. Wesleyan University Press. 9780819572752. Edited by Daniel Maximin. Translated by Keith L. Walker. 67 pages. paperback. Cover illustration: Suzanne Cesaire. FROM THE PUBLISHER - The Great[…]
Passing by Nella Larsen
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A Good Man In Africa by William Boyd
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Geist and Zeitgeist: The Spirit In An Unspiritual Age - Six Essays by Hermann Broch
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Spies of the Balkans: A Novel by Alan Furst
Spies of the Balkans: A Novel by Alan Furst. New York. 2010. Random House. hardcover. 268 pages. Jacket design by Robbin Schiff. 9781400066032. FROM THE PUBLISHER - Greece, 1940. In the port city of Salonika, with its wharves[…]
James Joyce by Italo Svevo
James Joyce by Italo Svevo. San Francisco. 1950. City Lights Books. Reprinted Paperback Edition after A limited Edition of 1600 numbered copies were privately issued by James Laughlin for the friends and supporters of New Directions.Very Good In Wrappers. unpaginated.[…]
At the Dusk of Dawn: Selected Poetry and Prose by Albery Allson Whitman
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Haiti Noir by Edwidge Danticat (editor)
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(04/30/2014) Eurocentrism by Samir Amin
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The Shooting Gallery & Other Stories by Yuko Tsushima
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The Invasion of America: Indians, Colonialism, and the Cant of Conquest by Francis Jennings
The Invasion of America: Indians, Colonialism, and the Cant of Conquest by Francis Jennings. New York. 1976. Norton. paperback. 369 pages. Cover design by Jay J. Smith. keywords: History America Colonialism Conquest. 0393008304. FROM THE PUBLISHER - […]
The Voices Of Guns: The Definitive & Dramatic Story Of The Twenty-Two-Month Career Of The Symbionese Liberation Army-One Of The Most Bizarre Chapters In The History Of The American Left by Vin McLellan and Paul Avery
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Agua Viva by Clarice Lispector
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The Bureaucrats by Honore de Balzac
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The Traces Of Thomas Hariot by Muriel Rukeyser
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Sally Hemings by Barbara Chase-Riboud
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Unbought & Unbossed by Shirley Chisholm
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The Good Fight by Shirley Chisholm
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The Italics Are Mine by Nina Berberova
The Italics Are Mine by Nina Berberova. New York. 1969. Harcourt Brace & World. 606 pages. hardcover. Jacket photograph & design by Robert A. Propper. Translated from the Russian by Philippe Radley. FROM THE PUBLISHER - […]
The Republic Of Dreams by Nelida Pinon
The Republic Of Dreams by Nelida Pinon. New York. 1989. Knopf. 663 pages. July 1989. hardcover. 0394555252. Jacket illustration by Steven Rydberg. Jacket design by Carol Devine Carson. Translated from the Portuguese by Helen Lane. (original title: Republica dos sonhos,[…]
Resurrection by William Gerhardi
Resurrection by William Gerhardi. New York. 1934. Harcourt Brace & Company. 372 pages. 'One grows older furtively, under the watchful eyes of friends. But gradually one sees they are accomplices who condone the crime; which turns into a weakness,[…]
Tales of the German Imagination: From the Brothers Grimm to Ingeborg Bachmann by Peter Wortsman (editor)
Tales of the German Imagination: From the Brothers Grimm to Ingeborg Bachmann by Peter Wortsman (editor). New York. 2012. Penguin Books. paperback. 361 pages. Cover: 'Melancholy of the Mountains', 1929, Coloured woodcut by Ernst Ludwig Kirchner. Translated from the German,[…]
© 2021 The Bob Rosenberg Group
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Category: Production
Some thoughts on the HBO Max day-and-date streaming releases during the pandemic
Earlier today Keith Calder asked a intriguing question about the Warner Bros. announcement to release their upcoming slate on HBO Max date-and-date with movie theaters.
I’d love to read a detailed story about how WB renegotiated all of their backend deals to make it possible to release their whole 2021 slate direct to HBO Max and not alienate A-list directors, movie stars, and co-financiers. That’s a very complicated situation.
— Keith Calder (@keithcalder) December 4, 2020
So let’s give it a whirl then, shall we?
Warner Bros. is a primarily a distribution company and to some extent acts like a bank.
Generally most of their contracts are written to protect themselves and their financial interests at the highest end, not the interests of the producers or production companies that work for them.
Usually they’re acquiring content from production companies and the acquisition doesn’t tie them down to particular release patterns, marketing dollars, or other preconditions. Producers can consult on some of the decisions, but usually the studio is going to do what it wants.
This is done, in part, because it’s in everyone’s general interest that the picture makes the maximum amount of money. Usually the studio is putting (at least some of) their own money up in advance, so it doesn’t behoove them not to maximize their return.
Production companies, directors, writers, and actors all rely on them having skin in the game. In this case, they’re the ones left physically holding the bag.
With this move, the studio is covering its (and everyone else’s) best interest by attempting to recoup as much as they can. Since they control the release from top to bottom on their own platform all the money goes into their own pockets instead of giving a sliding percentage of it away to so many of the popcorn and carbonated sugar syrup grocery stores that masquerade as movie theaters these days.
One also needs to keep in mind that it’s quite common for talent contracts to fester for long after the start of principal photography and some never get to the point of receiving wet signatures. I’ve seen dozens of contracts get wet signatures long after their films’ theatrical releases.
So it’s entirely possible that they could be waiting until now to drop the bomb. But what is the talent going to do? They’re not going to fail to show up and support their work, that’s for sure. Everyone knows the business is in the hole and not coming back any time soon.
The finance costs of some of these movies would completely eat the studios alive if they don’t do something. What else can they do? The best they can. Grin, bear it, and keep the gears turning.
And let’s not forget about the total turkeys which can be illustrative. There are many movies that get made and acquired and don’t get a release at all. Sometimes the studio makes the determination that it’s in their interest to sit on a film and never release it because the cost of prints and advertising is just too great.
Here’s a great example. Do you remember the 2000 blockbuster hit The Third Wheel starring Ben Affleck and Luke Wilson?
What?! Never heard of it? Affleck shot it between Reindeer Games and Bounce while starting talks for doing Pearl Harbor for Bruckheimer at Disney.
His star was on the rise after Good Will Hunting and Armageddon and it was generally obvious to Mirimax and the producers (which included Matt Damon and Ben Affleck), that an incredibly mediocre film starring him might potentially end his career or the pairs’ producing careers.
So, what the heck? We only spent a few million on it, so we’ll eat the cost of production and maybe release it in a handful of foreign territories in a cheap dub a few years down the road and no harm, no foul. Right?
But what about all the other crappy movies that come out and tank at the box office? It’s often not until your film has had a test audience screening that the studio truly slots its release date. Any dates prior to that are just flexing to scare the competition.
After a test screening, the last thing you want to hear is that it’s coming out in late August or February. Studios don’t release movies in those time periods—they escape! Those slots are the kiss-of-death because no one goes to the movies then.
The studio knows that but generally needs to recoup some money. Typically they’re also paying interest on production loans or bridge financing which they can’t sit on forever.
So in an effort to clear the books, they push the movie out with the least amount of P&A so that they can begin bundling their films into all the follow up release windows in hopes that those will at least cover their cost.
If there are law suits after-the-fact, they’ll likely be over the back end deal segments that provide bonuses for talent for box office performance. But guess what? Usually creative finance on the studio’s part is done to prevent these bonuses from being paid out in the first place.
And shame on the agents and attorneys of the talent for not adding in bonus payouts for performance of releases in each window segment of the pictures lifespan. You can bet those clauses will be baked into contracts going forward.
I’ve got some first look and producing deals as well as some acquisition paperwork kicking around the office here, but without looking through them, I’m pretty sure that there’s nothing in those contracts that requires the studio(s) to actually release anything.
Of course it only hurts the studio to buy material and just sit on it, so can you fault them for doing the best they can?
My guess is that with the givens, they’ll get a massive bump in (recurring–everyone’s favorite) subscription income and it will either mostly or completely cover a large part of the gap. And likely better for their part, it’s harder for talent to audit internal numbers and machinations within a studio to prove that the movie made it to profit levels necessary to pay off points on the back end.
If there is a contractual obligation lurking around somewhere, they’ve always got a force majeure clause in there somewhere that would certainly cover the issues they’re living with.
Some of the more interesting questions relate to the studios’ relationships with exhibitors which generally aren’t owned by them. That may be a slightly harder question, but what are theater owners really going to do? They can’t guarantee the box office turn out that they might have before, and a poor box office turn out is more likely to do irreparable damage to a film’s release in all the subsequent windows.
Generally with a sliding scale of box office receipts going to the exhibitors, they’re really in the business of selling popcorn which is where they make all their profits, but as we all know, that’s not doing very well for them right now either.
It’s actually more likely in the studio’s interest to pull their films. Their smaller budget releases in January and February are far more likely to overperform by being released during the pandemic to audiences who can pay a premium for them and who may feel a dearth of new entertainment options.
Meanwhile all the parents who couldn’t afford the $100+ for the babysitter and incidentals are likely to appreciate their HBO Max subscription all the more.
But wait! There’s more! I’ve completely buried the lede! Peter Kafka alludes to it in his interview with WarnerMedia CEO Jason Kilar earlier today, but I suspect he is completely unaware of it. (This is likely why Vox gets the interview in a soft presser and not a senior legal journalist with The Hollywood Reporter or Variety.) For the careful viewers at home, let’s not forget that the 1948 Paramount Consent Decree died quietly earlier in August this year. This essentially makes it much easier for studios to become vertically integrated again. The studios can now own the entirety of the finance, production, distribution, and exhibition chain like they could in the “Golden Era” of Hollywood. If you want to ask questions about something, this is the area to focus on!
Give it another couple of years and studios will eventually own talent agencies again… Who’s going to be the next Lew Wasserman?
If only we had a President who was also in the entertainment business who could monkey around with this arrangement the way Reagan did…
Posted on December 3, 2020 9:44 pm December 3, 2020
Author Chris AldrichCategories Distribution, Entertainment Industry, ProductionTags HBO Max, Paramount consent decree, vertical integrationSyndicated copies:
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11 Comments on Some thoughts on the HBO Max day-and-date streaming releases during the pandemic
Watched Mind yer Scots - Dr Michael Dempster full interview from YouTube
Dr Michael Dempster - Full Interview. Speaking to 'The Big Night In' Dr Dempster discusses the origins of the Scots language, Scots in popular culture, place names, common attitudes and various initiatives to encourage people to use and understand their own Scots tongue.
Interesting note about the TV show Shetland and the language used and how it was affected by the BBC as a production entity.
Mention around 23 minutes about the Anglicization of Scots words that not only don’t make sense, but remove the relationship between the people and their land.
Format StatusPosted on August 29, 2020 10:46 pm
Author Chris AldrichCategories Linguistics, Production, Social Stream, WatchTags accents, culture, Scots
64 °F clear sky
Read How an unknown British actress played a role in the downfall of two Hollywood moguls by Stacy Perman (Los Angeles Times)
Ron Meyer, the former vice chairman of NBCUniversal, was the second mogul embroiled in a sex scandal with Charlotte Kirk to be toppled in less than two years.
Format LinkPosted on August 21, 2020 9:49 am August 27, 2020
Author Chris AldrichCategories Entertainment Industry, Production, Read, Representation, Social StreamTags Charlotte Kirk, extortion, Kevin Tsujihara, me too, Ron Meyer, sexual harassmentSyndicated copies:
Read Anne Hathaway Recalls Christopher Nolan’s Advice for Playing Catwoman in ‘The Dark Knight Rises’ by Ramin Setoodeh (Variety)
How did Anne Hathaway become Catwoman? To portray Batman’s purring nemesis in Christopher Nolan’s 2012 movie “The Dark Knight Rises,” the actress realized that she needed to…
Hathaway also recalled a specific detail from Nolan’s movie sets. “He doesn’t allow chairs, and his reasoning is, if you have chairs, people will sit, and if they’re sitting, they’re not working,” Hathaway said. “I mean, he has these incredible movies in terms of scope and ambition and technical prowess and emotion. It always arrives at the end under schedule and under budget. I think he’s onto something with the chair thing.”
Format LinkPosted on June 29, 2020 9:43 pm July 1, 2020
Author Chris AldrichCategories Entertainment Industry, Production, Read, Social StreamTags productivitySyndicated copies:
Read Fox Says Discovery About 'Simpsons' Composer Culminated in Firing (The Hollywood Reporter)
In new court papers, 'Simpsons' producers say they were surprised and disturbed to learn that Alf Clausen was having his son and others create music for the animated comedy. Fox demands an end to an age bias suit as an impingement of its First Amendment-protected decision-making about the show's music.
Format LinkPosted on April 30, 2020 2:08 pm May 6, 2020
Author Chris AldrichCategories Entertainment Industry, Production, Read, Social StreamTags ageismSyndicated copies:
Listened to Computers Judge What Makes The Perfect Radio Voice by Audie Cornish from All Things Considered | NPR
A few weeks ago, All Tech Considered asked the audience to send voice samples to analyze. Those samples were put through an algorithm to figure out what kind of voice would make an appealing radio host. NPR's Audie Cornish explains how this experiment turned out.
hat tip: What do authority and curiosity sound like on the radio? NPR has been expanding that palette from its founding | NiemanLab
Format AudioPosted on December 18, 2019 9:48 am December 18, 2019
Author Chris AldrichCategories Listen, Production, Social StreamTags algorithms, gender discrimination, history, radioSyndicated copies:
Read What do authority and curiosity sound like on the radio? NPR has been expanding that palette from its founding by Jason Loviglio (Nieman Lab)
From nasal New York accents to vocal fry, NPR's anchors and reporters have long inflamed debates about whose voices should represent the nation — or just be heard by it.
WNYC Studios’ On The Media recently had a piece on the history, science, and engineering behind How Radio Makes Female Voices Sound “Shrill”.
This piece on NPR is a great example of how we’re still dealing with these engineering and social problems nearly a century on.
Format LinkPosted on December 18, 2019 9:16 am December 18, 2019
Author Chris AldrichCategories Entertainment Industry, Production, Read, Social StreamTags curiosity, gender discrimination, history, NPR, radioSyndicated copies:
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1 Comment on
👓 Days of Our Lives cast let go from contracts, as the show struggles with ratings | CNBC
Read Days of Our Lives cast let go from contracts, as the show struggles with ratings by Díamaris Martino (CNBC)
The entire cast has been released from their contracts, although the show has not bee canceled yet, according to an exclusive by TVLine.
Format LinkPosted on November 12, 2019 6:25 pm November 15, 2019
Author Chris AldrichCategories Entertainment Industry, Production, Read, Representation, Social StreamTags soap operasSyndicated copies:
Leave a comment on 👓 Days of Our Lives cast let go from contracts, as the show struggles with ratings | CNBC
👓 Werner Herzog on ‘The Mandlorian’ and Why He Hasn’t Seen ‘Star Wars’ | Variety
Read Werner Herzog on Why He Didn’t Need to See ‘Star Wars’ Films for ‘The Mandalorian’ Role (Variety)
At first sight, playing a vital character in Jon Favreau’s “The Mandalorian,” Disney’s live-action “Star Wars” series, which the studio is using to launch its ambitious streaming venture, might appear to be an odd move for Werner Herzog.
Do you watch any television?
I do, I watch the news from different sources. Sometimes I see things that are completely against my cultural nature. I was raised with Latin and Ancient Greek and poetry from Greek antiquity, but sometimes, just to see the world I live in, I watch “WrestleMania.”
WrestleMania! This has to be the quote of the year from Werner Hertzog.
Format LinkPosted on November 12, 2019 10:37 am November 13, 2019
Author Chris AldrichCategories Entertainment Industry, Production, Quotes, Read, Social StreamSyndicated copies:
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Leave a comment on 👓 Werner Herzog on ‘The Mandlorian’ and Why He Hasn’t Seen ‘Star Wars’ | Variety
🎧 Sheila Nevins on Age, Sex, Love, Life, and Everything Else | Clear+Vivid with Alan Alda
Listened to Sheila Nevins on Age, Sex, Love, Life, and Everything Else by Alan Alda from Clear+Vivid with Alan Alda
Sheila Nevins has explored the human condition in the thousand or so documentaries she produced for HBO. From more than 30 years of telling us stories about ourselves, to her experience as a woman in the workplace, Sheila has plenty to say about communicating. And she never holds back. In this delightful episode, Alan Alda talks with Sheila about her life, how she feels about aging, the #MeToo movement, sex, divorce, documentaries, storytelling, and just about everything else! This episode is sponsored by Calm. Check out www.calm.com/alda for more details.
I always forget that Sheila is as old as she is. She does have a great sense of humor.
She makes an interesting point about humility that people with power (and especially within the entertainment industry) should be aware of and work to improve.
Most shocking was the story she tells about her me too moment and how she viewed it. Definitely a perspective I wouldn’t have expected.
Her perspective about looking at individuals as a way into human problems and making documentaries is similar to a philosophy I remember hearing from Masha Gessen in an interview that Jeffrey Goldberg did with her. The upshot is that, especially for righting wrongs and general atrocities, focusing a story on a particular individual has a lot more power than focusing on the nameless and faceless masses. Sheila’s example of the Holocaust survivor is a particular apt one. (As I think about it Masha would be a great interview for this podcast.)
In fact, I recently watched an immigration related documentary on Frontline and while I didn’t personally find the lead woman very relate-able or sympathetic, I was still pissed off at the process because her individual story was still so powerful.
This general ideal also reminds me of the gut-punch scene at the end of the film A Time To Kill (1996) [spoiler alert] which ends with the command to the jury “Now imagine she’s white.”
Format AudioPosted on May 30, 2019 12:47 pm May 31, 2019
Author Chris AldrichCategories Development, Entertainment Industry, Listen, Production, Social StreamTags atrocities, Clear+Vivid with Alan Alda, communication, documentaries, HBO, holocaust, immigration, me too, racism, sexual harassment, storytellingSyndicated copies:
1 Comment on 🎧 Sheila Nevins on Age, Sex, Love, Life, and Everything Else | Clear+Vivid with Alan Alda
👓 ‘Lion King’ director Jon Favreau explains why he’s remaking an animated classic | TechCrunch
Read ‘Lion King’ director Jon Favreau explains why he’s remaking an animated classic (TechCrunch)
Disney has been cranking out live-action remakes of its animated library for the past few years — in fact, Tim Burton’s “Dumbo” just left theaters, and Guy Ritchie’s take on “Aladdin” is currently at the top of the box office. But these distinctions get tricky wi…
I was reading some other Tech Crunch stories and recognized Caleb Deschanel in the photo for this article, so I clicked to see what he’s been up to lately. I actually recognized him before Favreau…
Format LinkPosted on May 30, 2019 11:13 am May 31, 2019
Author Chris AldrichCategories Production, Read, Social StreamTags Caleb Deschanel, Johns Hopkins alumni, Johns Hopkins Film and Media StudiesSyndicated copies:
1 Comment on 👓 ‘Lion King’ director Jon Favreau explains why he’s remaking an animated classic | TechCrunch
👓 ‘BH90210’ Showrunner, Multiple Writers Quit Fox Series Revival (EXCLUSIVE) | Variety
Read ‘BH90210’ Showrunner, Multiple Writers Quit Fox Series Revival (EXCLUSIVE) by Joe Otterson and Matt Donnelly
There is drama behind the scenes of Fox’s upcoming “Beverly Hills 90210” revival that is worthy of — well, “Beverly Hills 90210.” Showrunner Patrick Sean Smith and multiple senior-level writers have quit the six-episode series, which is titled “BH90210.” The exact reason for the exodus is unclear. One source said the dispute was over interference from two of the show’s lead actresses, while another noted that the writers were unhappy with one of the executives overseeing the project. Paul Sciarrotta has been named the new showrunner along with series’ creators Chris Alberghini and Mike Chessler. Sciarrotta, a member of the show’s writing staff, is currently under an overall deal with CBS Television Studios, which is producing the series.
Format LinkPosted on May 16, 2019 10:36 pm May 22, 2019
Author Chris AldrichCategories Development, Entertainment Industry, Production, Read, Social StreamTags 90210Syndicated copies:
Leave a comment on 👓 ‘BH90210’ Showrunner, Multiple Writers Quit Fox Series Revival (EXCLUSIVE) | Variety
👓 'Sneaky Pete' Producers Adjusting Season 3 After Ricky Jay's Death | Hollywood Reporter
Read 'Sneaky Pete' Producers Adjusting Season 3 After Ricky Jay's Death (The Hollywood Reporter)
The magician and actor, who died Saturday, had his final acting role on the Amazon series.
Format LinkPosted on November 28, 2018 6:57 am November 28, 2018
Author Chris AldrichCategories Entertainment Industry, Production, Read, Social StreamTags Netflix, Ricky JaySyndicated copies:
Leave a comment on 👓 'Sneaky Pete' Producers Adjusting Season 3 After Ricky Jay's Death | Hollywood Reporter
👓 Altadena Filming Committee submits report on filming permit accountability | Altadena Filming
Read Altadena Filming Committee submits report on filming permit accountability (altadenafilming.org)
The Altadena Filming Committee has prepared a report addressing accountability in Los Angeles County’s filming permit approval and enforcement processes. The report was prepared in response to the issue raised most often to the Committee: the lack of accountability by County departments.
Format LinkPosted on November 12, 2018 8:37 pm April 13, 2019
Author Chris AldrichCategories Entertainment Industry, Local, Production, Read, Social StreamTags AltadenaSyndicated copies:
Leave a comment on 👓 Altadena Filming Committee submits report on filming permit accountability | Altadena Filming
👓 Quincy Jones on the Secret Michael Jackson and the Problem With Modern Pop | Vulture
Read Quincy Jones on the Secret Michael Jackson and the Problem With Modern Pop by David Marchese (Vulture)
Music legend Quincy Jones on who he thinks killed JFK, the secret Michael Jackson, his relationship with the Trumps, and the problem with modern pop.
I’ve known many older “Hollywood” executives like this. You have to take what they say with a heavy grain of salt, though some of their stories can have some grains of truth to them.
Format LinkPosted on February 9, 2018 5:59 pm February 13, 2018
Author Chris AldrichCategories Entertainment Industry, Production, Read, Social StreamTags Quincy Jones, Reading.amSyndicated copies:
Leave a comment on 👓 Quincy Jones on the Secret Michael Jackson and the Problem With Modern Pop | Vulture
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TBR Alert: NetGalley’s Staff Reads
NetGalley Tips
Subscribe to We Are Bookish
by Kelly Gallucci
Curious what the NetGalley team is reading? Wish you could steal a peek at our bookshelves? You’ve come to the right place. Check out the books we’re recommending this month, and share your favorite recent reads in the comments!
Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia, narrated by Frankie Corzo
Mexican Gothic has been on my must-read list ever since I saw the stunning cover. Set in 1950s Mexico, it follows Noemí Taboada as she travels to a strange house in the countryside to discover the truth behind an odd letter from her cousin asking for help. Moreno-Garcia weaves together Mexican history with gothic horror to create an unsettling tale that reads like a classic. I was unnerved and suspicious from the very first page, as uncertain as Noemí about who to trust and what was going on. I listened to the audiobook, which is narrated by Frankie Corzo, who I think did a great job of creating an uneasy atmosphere throughout the tale. Before listening, I saw lots of readers discussing how creepy the book was, but few talk about how gross some of the horror gets! Let’s just say, I’d suggest not making this something you read while eating. I certainly recommend this to gothic literature fans, but want to caution readers to check the content warnings before diving in. I’m already looking forward to reading more from Moreno-Garcia!
Drowned Country by Emily Tesh
Emily Tesh has been on my TBR for a while, often recommended to me by readers who know that I love fantasy, romance, and queer stories. I finally sat down with both books in the Greenhollow duology over the weekend. There’s a gentleness and a tenderness to these tales (a warmth to the language) that encourages readers to comfortably settle in, and I quickly found myself enchanted by the world Tesh created. Drowned Country takes place two years after the events in the first novella. Tobias and Henry’s folklorist mother Adela requires Henry’s help with a vampire who has taken a local girl. Once they all arrive in Rothport, it’s to find that the missing girl they’re meant to rescue is hiding a few secrets of her own. Drowned Country hit shelves earlier this month and is a beautiful conclusion to the story that begins with Silver in the Wood. Readers who enjoy folklore will love this fantasy duology and the romantic thread that runs through it.
Here to Stay by Adriana Herrera
Adriana Herrera is launching a new series this summer starting with Here to Stay. New Yorker Julia del Mar Ortiz starts the Gotham Exiles Club as a way to make friends after her recent move to Dallas, Texas and isn’t happy to learn Rocco Quinn wants to join. Rocco is a new consultant for the high fashion department store she works for, and has the power to shut down the charity foundation she runs. Family is a major theme in this book, and Herrera expertly explores its various forms—from Julia’s tight-knit one, to the found family created by friends, to Rocco’s desire to give his sister the kind of familial support he never had. It’s all beautifully tied into the concept of home and the idea that it doesn’t need to be a singular place; it can be where you grew up and also where you grew into the person you wanted to be. I adored Julia, Rocco, and the entire Gotham Exiles Club. I cannot wait to see where Herrera takes the series next.
Burn Our Bodies Down by Rory Power, narrated by Lauren Ezzo
Rory Power’s debut Wilder Girls was one of my favorite books that I read last year, and I’ve been eagerly looking forward to reading her next book, Burn Our Bodies Down. This one takes readers to a strange small town where Margot is searching for answers about her family’s history. Along the way, she uncovers a horrifying secret that links herself, her mother, and her grandmother to the family farm. It’s eerie, unsettling, and really gross (seriously, Power has a gift for the gross). I can be a little squeamish, but it’s Power’s writing that keeps me coming back for more. Her heroines are always that perfect blend of sharp edges and a vulnerable core, and her mysteries always unfurl in ways you don’t expect. In particular, I loved the line she explores here between wanting to belong to someone and wanting to stand on your own. Margot longs for the kind of relationship with her mother that she’ll never have, but also prides herself on her independence. She spends the book reconciling the two, a matter made all the more complicated as she learns the truth about their relationship. If you’re looking for a YA novel that blends horror and mystery, and if you loved Wilder Girls, you won’t want to miss Burn Our Bodies Down.
The Space Between Worlds by Micaiah Johnson
I loved the concept for this novel—multiverse travel is finally possible, but there’s just one catch: No one can visit a world where their counterpart is still alive—and was thrilled when it became about much more than the logistics of inter-universe traversing. Cara finds herself between the worlds of Ashtown and Wiley, between the worlds of “Rurals” and “Runners,” and between the worlds of love and indifference. Twists abound throughout, creating complex scenarios beyond the complications of multiverse travel.
You Had Me at Hola by Alexis Daria, narrated by Seraphine Valentine
I connected with You Had Me at Hola on a deeply personal level in a way that I haven’t with a book in a long time. Jasmine has gotten her first leading lady role on a streaming show that’s an adaptation of a telenovela, and her co-star is Ashton, a telenovela star trying to break into mainstream Hollywood. The two fall in love despite Jasmine having a recent bad breakup and Ashton hiding his son in Puerto Rico. I was obsessed with this story from the beginning and really connected with Jasmine. As a half Puerto Rican reader, I felt very seen reading a heroine who wasn’t fluent in Spanish and feels insecure because of it. I also really loved seeing all of these Puerto Rican and Latinx characters on the page. I highly recommend the audiobook for this one as the characters speak Spanish quite frequently and the narrator performs the hero Ashton’s accent. It helps set the tone and also aids with the switches between the book’s narrative and the TV scenes that depict the characters playing their on-screen roles.
Riot Baby by Tochi Onyebuchi
Riot Baby is one of those books that I just couldn’t put down; I needed to keep reading. This novella follows Ella and Kev, siblings whose entire lives have been impacted by systemic racism. Onyebuchi weaves together the past and present through Ella, who possesses powers (including time-traveling) she calls her Thing. Her trips to the past reveal the history of injustices faced by Black communities. Through Kev’s timeline, Onyebuchi explores the cruelty of the justice system. This book does so much in 180 pages, and I know I didn’t pick up on all of the different nuances on my first read. A reader could truly sit and unpack it for days.
Only Mostly Devastated by Sophie Gonzales, narrated by Mark Sanderlin
I just finished the audiobook of Only Mostly Devastated and it was fantastic. This contemporary YA is a loose queer Grease retelling and I was here for it. Ollie has a summer fling with Will while on vacation visiting his aunt’s family. When Ollie ends up staying in town for the academic year, he finds out that Will isn’t out at his school. While being a fun story, Gonzales still writes about a lot of really important themes that teens can relate to like coming out on your own terms and grief. I really loved the romance between Ollie and Will, which clearly has a Sandy/Danny vibe, but Ollie isn’t a pushover like Sandy. He isn’t perfect and I enjoyed him because of it. Grease’s theme of changing yourself for a relationship comes up and Gonzales expertly handles it in a modern way. For me the real star of this book was Ollie and Laura’s relationship. Laura is the Rizzo, a mean girl with a chip on her shoulder, but her journey of coming to terms with being bisexual and coming out was really beautifully handled. I loved how her and Ollie became friends and defended each other. I also adored the Latinx Thanksgiving dinner here as well. If you’re in the mood another queer YA book after reading You Should See Me in a Crown, I highly recommend this one!
Take a Hint, Dani Brown by Talia Hibbert
My goodness, I loved this book so much! This follows Dani and Zaf, who go viral and end up faking a relationship while also becoming friends with benefits. Hibbert has an incredible ability to write hysterical banter and characters that feel real. Zaf is the perfect cinnamon roll hero with a heart of gold. Dani’s bisexual and it was so great to see that representation here. This is a m/f romance, but her bisexuality is never negated or forgotten. I didn’t think Hibbert could top Get a Life, Chloe Brown but she definitely did and I can’t wait to read the next Brown Sisters book.
Cinderella Is Dead by Kalynn Bayron
It took approximately half a second after reading the synopsis to know this book was going to be a favorite, and I’m so happy it didn’t disappoint. Two hundred years after the death of Cinderella, 16-year-old Sophia is ready to take down the patriarchy. The society she grew up in forces women and girls to be married off at the yearly ball, and if they’re not chosen, they’re forced into a life of servitude or worse. But Sophia doesn’t want to marry a man—she wants to marry her childhood best friend, Erin. And not even a murderous king and a corrupt society can stop her. This book has all the drama and romance you’d expect from a Cinderella retelling, but without the sparkle and talking animals. It’s a little dark, a little dystopian, and a little more grown up than your average Cinderella story.
Tags: audiobooks, Staff Reads
Kelly Gallucci
Kelly Gallucci is the Executive Editor of We Are Bookish, where she oversees the editorial content, offers book recommendations, and interviews authors and NetGalley members. When she's not working, Kelly can be found color coordinating her bookshelves, eating Chipotle, and watching way too many baking shows.
Kelly Gallucci August 24, 2020
© 2010-2019 NetGalley LLC. All Rights Reserved
Subscribe to our monthly newsletter for book recs, interviews, and favorites from our editor.
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Payment of Veterans' Adjusted-service Certificates: Hearings Before the Committee on Finance, United States Senate, Seventy-first Congress, Third Session, Relative to Payment of Veterans' Adjusted-service Certificates. February 18, 1931, Volume 1
United States. Congress. Senate. Committee on Finance
U.S. Government Printing Office, 1931 - Disabled veterans - 178 pages
Payment of Veterans' Adjusted-service Certificates: Hearings ..., Parts 1-2
Payment of Veterans' Adjusted-service Certificates: Hearings ..., Volume 2
25 per cent additional adjusted service adjusted-service certificates administrative amended American amount annually applied assuming average banks benefits better bill bonds bonus borrow Bureau called cash Chairman committee compounded Congress Congressional Record consideration cost course debt December difference disabled dollars effect estimate face value fact figures fund give going Government HINES hospitals House immediate increase interest investment issue January Legion legislation less loans matter maturity mean meet ment million month obligation paid passed payment present present value probably proposal question raised received referred reported represent retirement Secretary MELLON securities Senator BARKLEY Senator CONNALLY Senator COUZENS Senator HARRISON Senator SHORTRIDGE Senator Walsh Senator WATSON service certificates shows statement Treasury Undersecretary Mills United veterans volume Walsh of Massachusetts World
Page 3 - ... collateral security for the prompt payment of this note I have delivered to and do hereby pledge with the holder of this note my Adjusted Service Certificate No. dated , further identified by No. A This note may be sold, discounted, or rediscounted and the certificate pledged herewith may be transferred in accordance with the provisions of the World War Adjusted Compensation Act, as amended. If the principal and interest of this note are not paid at its maturity, any bank holding this note and...
Page 1 - ... notice. (c) The authority of the President to enter into foreign trade agreements under section 1 of this Act shall terminate on the expiration of three years from the date of the enactment of this Act. SEC. 3. Nothing in this Act shall be construed to give any authority to cancel or reduce, in any manner, any of the indebtedness of any foreign country to the United States.
Page 2 - As used in this act (1) the term "migratory waterfowl" means the species enumerated in paragraph (a) of subdivision 1 of article I of the treaty between the United States and Great Britain for the protection of migratory birds concluded August 16, 1916; (2) the term "State...
Page 1 - TO PROVIDE FOR THE IMMEDIATE PAYMENT TO VETERANS OF THE FACE VALUE OF THEIR ADJUSTED-SERVICE CERTIFICATES, FOR CONTROLLED EXPANSION OF THE CURRENCY, AND TO EXTEND THE TIME FOR FILING APPLICATIONS FOR BENEFITS UNDER WORLD WAR ADJUSTED COMPENSATION ACT, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES MAT 22, 1935.
Page 45 - ... organization, yet Congress has deferred action on this cash payment ; and Whereas this adjusted-compensation certificate does not benefit the veteran greatly unless he is dead, and it is our firm belief that what the ex-service man of to-day needs is immediate cash to help him meet the obligations imposed upon him by his Army service, unemployment, business depression, etc.: Therefore be it Resolved, That the thirty-first national encampment, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, goes...
Page 4 - An Act to prohibit financial transactions with any foreign government in default on its obligations to the United States", approved April 13, 1934 (USC, title 31, sec. 804a), is amended by adding at the end thereof a new section to read as follows: "SEC. 3.
Page 2 - All amounts in the fund shall be available for payment, by the administrator, of adjusted-service certificates upon their maturity or the prior death of the veteran, for payments under section 502 to banks on account of notes of veterans, and for making loans authorized by section 502." SEC. 3. There is authorized to be appropriated such amounts as may be necessary to provide for the making of loans to veterans by the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs under the World War adjusted compensation act,...
Page 87 - ... carried its arms in 1917 and 1918:. Now therefore be it " 'Resolved, by the delegates of the thirteenth annual convention duly assembled, That we again declare and reaffirm as our first and major objective legislation for the further relief of the disabled men and their dependents, widows and orphans and will take definite exception to any interference with or delay in the passage of such legislation; and be it further " ' Resolved, That this convention approves and confirms the action taken...
Page 116 - ... credit shall be computed by allowing the following sums for each day of active service in excess of 60 days, in the military or naval forces of the United States after April 5, 1917, and before July 1, 1919, as shown by the service or other records of the veteran: $1.25 for each day of overseas service and $1 for each day of home service...
Page 3 - Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That notwithstanding the provisions of the World War Adjusted Compensation Act, as amended (USC, 1934 edition, title 38, ch. 11), the adjusted-service certificates issued under the authority of such Act are hereby declared to be immediately payable. Payments on account of such certificates shall be made in the manner hereinafter provided upon application therefor to the Administrator...
Title Payment of Veterans' Adjusted-service Certificates: Hearings Before the Committee on Finance, United States Senate, Seventy-first Congress, Third Session, Relative to Payment of Veterans' Adjusted-service Certificates. February 18, 1931, Volume 1
Payment of Veterans' Adjusted-service Certificates: Hearings Before the Committee on Finance, United States Senate, Seventy-first Congress, Third Session, Relative to Payment of Veterans' Adjusted-service Certificates. February 18, 1931, United States. Congress. Senate. Committee on Finance
Author United States. Congress. Senate. Committee on Finance
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A road of discoveries
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The A14 Cambridge to Huntingdon improvement scheme is a £1.5 billion roadworks project including a major new bypass and upgrades to 21 miles of the A14. With over 250,000 artefacts found, it is one of the largest and most complex archaeological projects in the UK.
Just before the main work began in November 2016, a team of 250 archaeologists from the UK and Europe were called in to investigate over 40 sites spanning 350 hectares. Archaeological work was initially started with geophysical surveys in 2010 when the roadworks were first being considered. The surveys identified some of the possible findings and created a proposal for excavation areas.
MOLA Headland archaeologists worked as a joint venture with the Highways England team to ensure the excavations were carried out with minimal disruptions, were executed safely and efficiently. Both teams believed it to be highly important to learn about and preserve thousands of years of history that lay beneath the future roads.
What was found?
Once the team had completed the excavations, the findings included:
Woolly mammoth tusks and woolly rhino skulls, potentially dating back to over 100,000 years ago
Three Neolithic henges, between four and five thousand years old, and seven prehistoric burial mounds from the Bronze Age
15 Iron Age and Roman settlements, three Anglo-Saxon settlements and one deserted medieval village
Around 15,000 objects such as coins, brooches and ironwork, over 500 human burials and cremations, more than six tonnes of pottery and almost five tonnes of animal bone
With such a big project like this, the A14 Cambridge to Huntingdon improvement scheme wanted to make sure that the work was carried as smoothly as possible to ensure there would be no delays. The archaeologists worked to an extremely high standard and shared the same work ethos as the A14 Integrated Delivery Team.
The A14 Cambridge to Huntingdon improvement scheme is a registered Ultra Site, meaning that they have made a commitment to be a beacon of best practice within the industry, shining a light to how others should be working in the industry.
Portraying their Ultra Site considerate credentials, the A14 team laid trackway matting down to ensure the archaeologists work could be as productive as possible and provide the team with a safe way to move around the site freely. As a large amount of the work took place in winter, the site team conducted warm up exercises each morning so the archaeologists were ready to safely start the day.
Engaging with the community
Not only was the work that was conducted carried out safely, the archaeologists on the A14 site were careful to respect the community. The use of social media ensured regular updates were provided to the interested public.
The team delivered many talks to interested groups, as well as holding regular open days which were organised for the public to come onto site to see the findings of the excavations. Alongside working with the community, the A14 Apprenticeship Scheme ensured trainee apprentices worked on the site with the archaeologists to gain first-hand experience in a different field of work. Other initiatives included school visits, events days with the MHI (MOLA Headland Infrastructure) and a community excavation, where over 70 people came onto site for a week and were trained in the techniques of archaeological excavation.
Now that the main excavations have finished, the team will spend the next three years recording and analysing the 250,000 artefacts found to put together a picture of over 6,000 years of human history and over 130,000 years of animal history to establish what once used to be. The results will be presented in a variety of formats including: traditional academic and popular reports, an online accessible archive and other digital applications.
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An action plan for the Philly region’s infrastructure
This article was originally published on Philly.com.
by Rob Wonderling & Gregory A. Kelly
In anticipation of President Trump’s proposal to generate a trillion-dollar investment for our nation’s infrastructure, the CEO Council for Growth, a council of the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia, worked with public and private partners to develop a plan called “Connecting the Region: A Transportation Strategy for Greater Philadelphia.”
This strategic portfolio of interconnecting transportation projects identifies nine key infrastructure investment areas that are likely to accelerate development, catalyze job growth, and transform our region. The proposed strategy, which will enhance our region’s economy, mobility, and livability, is achievable within the next 10 years with a total cost of $7 billion to $9 billion.
Our strategy calls for improvements to our global gateways by investing in Intercity Rail Stations at 30th Street Station, Newark, and a new station at Philadelphia International Airport. It seeks to maximize the benefit of the Delaware River Deepening Project by improving direct access to Packer Avenue Marine Terminal at Interstate 95.
The economic core between Center City and University City continues to thrive due to the tremendous growth of our innovation, knowledge, and entrepreneurial economies. Our strategy emphasizes the advancement of the 30th Street District plan and Schuylkill Yards development. This bundle of projects includes improvements to I-76 ramps, Civic Center Boulevard, and the Schuylkill River bridges from University Avenue to Spring Garden Street. The addition of a Market-Frankford line station at 20th Street will support the continued growth of Center City to the west.
Our plan highlights development opportunities that expand the reach and depth of our transportation infrastructure system, which will unlock development and strengthen our communities. Extending the Norristown High-Speed Line and transforming Roosevelt Boulevard will bind King of Prussia and Northeast Philadelphia, respectively, back to our region. Expanded mass transit services at the Navy Yard, enhancements at Walter Rand Transportation Center and elsewhere in Camden, and the integration of neighborhoods currently divided by the Vine Street Expressway will reconnect isolated communities to opportunities for residential and commercial development.
Lastly, we call for investments that will adapt our existing transportation system to the needs of the next generation by expanding capacity along the Market-Frankford line and within the Regional Rail systems by procuring new train cars, extending platforms, and improving frequency.
These new transportation investments must be made to accommodate and accelerate our outstanding development. The future of our region rests in large part on our ability to both secure infrastructure spending and activate new, innovative ways to direct more local resources to help rebuild and strengthen our communities.
The CEO Council for Growth looks forward to working with the administration and our regional congressional delegation, representing northern Delaware, South Jersey, and Southeastern Pennsylvania, to pass a bipartisan infrastructure spending bill and secure funding for implementation of the projects that will help us become a truly global region.
Rob Wonderling is chairman of the CEO Council for Growth and president and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia. [email protected]
Gregory A. Kelly, president and CEO of the U.S. and Latin America region of WSP, a global engineering and consulting firm. is a member of the CEO Council for Growth.
To learn more, visit www.ceocouncilforgrowth.com.
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Personalized Care Plan
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Red Cross Blood Drive – Wednesday September 18th, 1:00PM – 7:00PM
The team at CarenetLA is happy to support community service whenever possible. It’s part of who we are. Therefore, we are proud to co-sponsor and to promote a blood drive which is being organized by the America Red Cross for Wednesday, September 18th, between the hours of 1-7 PM.
The blood drive will be held in the meeting room of the drive’s main co-sponsor, the LAX Coastal Chamber of Commerce, also located at 9100 S. Sepulveda Blvd., on the second floor. There are many other businesses at this location which will be participating as well.
Everyone knows the importance of a steady blood supply. Your help would be appreciated in making this blood drive a success. Donors who are at least 17 years old and up and are in reasonably good health are encouraged to donate.
You can register on line by registering at www.redcrossblood.org, or with Christina at [email protected], or by calling 1-800-Red- Cross (1-800-733-2767). All donors will receive a coupon for 2 free tickets to the Laugh Factory, 2 ticket vouchers to the LA Grammy Museum, and a coupon for buy-one-get-one-free USC Football tickets ($5 processing fee per ticket).
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IDF-ADA Translational Symposium
Breaking Up Prolonged Sitting With Standing or Walking Attenuates the Postprandial Metabolic Response in Postmenopausal Women: A Randomized Acute Study
Joseph Henson1,2⇑,
Melanie J. Davies1,2,
Danielle H. Bodicoat1,2,3,
Charlotte L. Edwardson1,2,
Jason M.R. Gill4,
David J. Stensel2,5,
Keith Tolfrey2,5,
David W. Dunstan6,7,
Kamlesh Khunti1,3 and
Thomas Yates1,2
1Diabetes Research Centre, University of Leicester, Leicester, U.K.
2National Institute for Health Research Leicester-Loughborough Diet, Lifestyle and Physical Activity Biomedical Research Unit, Leicestershire, U.K.
3National Institute for Health Research Collaborations for Leadership in Applied Health Research and Care, East Midlands, U.K.
4Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, U.K.
5School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Leicestershire, U.K.
6Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
7Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Corresponding author: Joseph Henson, jjh18{at}le.ac.uk.
Diabetes Care 2016 Jan; 39(1): 130-138. https://doi.org/10.2337/dc15-1240
OBJECTIVE To determine whether breaking up prolonged sitting with short bouts of standing or walking improves postprandial markers of cardiometabolic health in women at high risk of type 2 diabetes.
RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Twenty-two overweight/obese, dysglycemic, postmenopausal women (mean ± SD age 66.6 ± 4.7 years) each participated in two of the following treatments: prolonged, unbroken sitting (7.5 h) or prolonged sitting broken up with either standing or walking at a self-perceived light intensity (for 5 min every 30 min). Both allocation and treatment order were randomized. The incremental area under the curves (iAUCs) for glucose, insulin, nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA), and triglycerides were calculated for each treatment condition (mean ± SEM). The following day, all participants underwent the 7.5-h sitting protocol.
RESULTS Compared with a prolonged bout of sitting (iAUC 5.3 ± 0.8 mmol/L ⋅ h), both standing (3.5 ± 0.8 mmol/L ⋅ h) and walking (3.8 ± 0.7 mmol/L ⋅ h) significantly reduced the glucose iAUC (both P < 0.05). When compared with prolonged sitting (548.2 ± 71.8 mU/L ⋅ h), insulin was also reduced for both activity conditions (standing, 437.2 ± 73.5 mU/L ⋅ h; walking, 347.9 ± 78.7 mU/L ⋅ h; both P < 0.05). Both standing (−1.0 ± 0.2 mmol/L ⋅ h) and walking (−0.8 ± 0.2 mmol/L ⋅ h) attenuated the suppression of NEFA compared with prolonged sitting (−1.5 ± 0.2 mmol/L ⋅ h) (both P < 0.05). There was no significant effect on triglyceride iAUC. The effects on glucose (standing and walking) and insulin (walking only) persisted into the following day.
CONCLUSIONS Breaking up prolonged sitting with 5-min bouts of standing or walking at a self-perceived light intensity reduced postprandial glucose, insulin, and NEFA responses in women at high risk of type 2 diabetes. This simple, behavioral approach could inform future public health interventions aimed at improving the metabolic profile of postmenopausal, dysglycemic women.
Clinical trial reg. no. NCT02135172, clinicaltrials.gov.
Accepted October 8, 2015.
© 2016 by the American Diabetes Association. Readers may use this article as long as the work is properly cited, the use is educational and not for profit, and the work is not altered.
January 2016, 39(1)
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You are going to email the following Breaking Up Prolonged Sitting With Standing or Walking Attenuates the Postprandial Metabolic Response in Postmenopausal Women: A Randomized Acute Study
Joseph Henson, Melanie J. Davies, Danielle H. Bodicoat, Charlotte L. Edwardson, Jason M.R. Gill, David J. Stensel, Keith Tolfrey, David W. Dunstan, Kamlesh Khunti, Thomas Yates
Diabetes Care Jan 2016, 39 (1) 130-138; DOI: 10.2337/dc15-1240
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Defend your Honor.
141 min 7.3 2014 USA
A successful lawyer returns to his hometown for his mother's funeral only to discover that his estranged father, the town's judge, is suspected of murder.
Ken Howard
Emma Tremblay
David Krumholtz
Grace Zabriskie
Denis O'Hare
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Ras Enoch McCurdie
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Jeffrey Corazzini
Keith Fluker
Ian Lyons
Semi-retired Michigan lawyer Paul Biegler takes the case of Army Lt. Manion, who murdered a local innkeeper after his wife claimed that he raped her. Over the course of an extensive trial, Biegler parries with District Attorney Lodwick and out-of-town prosecutor Claude Dancer to set his client free, but his case rests on the victim's mysterious business partner, who's hiding a dark secret.
Anatomy of a Murder
A young lawyer defends a black man accused of murdering two white men who raped his 10-year-old daughter, sparking a rebirth of the KKK.
A lawyer conducts business from the back of his Lincoln town car while representing a high-profile client in Beverly Hills.
Molly Bloom, a young skier and former Olympic hopeful becomes a successful entrepreneur (and a target of an FBI investigation) when she establishes a high-stakes, international poker game.
Kris Kringle, seemingly the embodiment of Santa Claus, is asked to portray the jolly old fellow at Macy's following his performance in the Thanksgiving Day parade. His portrayal is so complete that many begin to question if he truly is Santa Claus, while others question his sanity.
A man tries to warn his brother away from the new girlfriend he brings home during Thanksgiving, but ends up becoming infatuated with her in the process.
The Vicious Kind
An average family is thrust into the spotlight after the father commits a seemingly self-defense murder at his diner.
When Leonard Vole is arrested for the sensational murder of a rich, middle-aged widow, the famous Sir Wilfrid Robarts agrees to appear on his behalf. Sir Wilfrid, recovering from a near-fatal heart attack, is supposed to be on a diet of bland, civil suits—but the lure of the criminal courts is too much for him, especially when the case is so difficult.
Deepak is a lawyer suffering from bipolar disorder who experiences frequent mood swings. One night, Rajveer and his friends get drunk and try to molest Miss Arora and her two roommates leading to an accident. The film revolves around how Deepak fights the girls' case against these influential boys.
A small time thief from Belfast, Gerry Conlon, is falsely implicated in the IRA bombing of a pub that kills several people while he is in London. He and his four friends are coerced by British police into confessing their guilt. Gerry's father and other relatives in London are also implicated in the crime. He spends fifteen years in prison with his father trying to prove his innocence.
In the Name of the Father
Young lawyer Ruth Bader Ginsburg teams with her husband Marty to bring a groundbreaking case before the U.S. Court of Appeals and overturn a century of sex discrimination.
Clinging to an unfinished letter written by her recently deceased father, young Momo moves with her mother from bustling Tokyo to the remote Japanese island of Shio. Upon their arrival, she begins to explore her new habitat, meeting local children and learning their routines and customs. However, it's not long before several bizarre occurrences crop up around the previously tranquil island. Orchards are found ransacked, prized trinkets start disappearing and, worst of all, each morning after her mother leaves for work, Momo hears strange mumblings coming from the attic of their home. Annoyed by these creepy goings-on and her mother's refusal to believe them, Momo embarks on a strange and supernatural adventure to discover the source of the mischief, which leads her to a trio of troublesome imps: the flatulent lizard Kawa, the childlike Mame and their hulking ogre leader Iwa. Momo also learns that her visit to the island is in some way connected to her father's mysterious letter.
A small mountain community in Canada is devastated when a school bus accident leaves more than a dozen of its children dead. A big-city lawyer arrives to help the survivors' and victims' families prepare a class-action suit, but his efforts only seem to push the townspeople further apart. At the same time, one teenage survivor of the accident has to reckon with the loss of innocence brought about by a different kind of damage.
When a high school teacher is asked a question in class about Jesus, her reasoned response lands her in deep trouble and could expel God from the public square once and for all.
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In 1950s Pittsburgh, a frustrated African-American father struggles with the constraints of poverty, racism, and his own inner demons as he tries to raise a family.
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The defense and the prosecution have rested and the jury is filing into the jury room to decide if a young Spanish-American is guilty or innocent of murdering his father. What begins as an open and shut case soon becomes a mini-drama of each of the jurors' prejudices and preconceptions about the trial, the accused, and each other.
Three generations of a French family open up about their sexual experiences and desires after young Romain is caught masturbating in his biology class.
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SONG TO SONG (145 R)
SUMMARYBUY TICKETS
Two intersecting love triangles. Obsession and betrayal set against the music scene in Austin, Texas.
Stars: Haley Bennett, Ryan Gosling, Christian Bale, Natalie Portman, Michael Fassbender, Rooney Mara, Cate Blanchett, Trevante Rhodes, Boyd Holbrook, Val Kilmer, Bérénice Marlohe
Closed Captioning Available.
One of the loveliest images in “Song to Song,” the latest from Terrence Malick, is of ripples expanding across a small pool of water, echoes of a woman’s quick step. Mr. Malick, one of cinema’s philosopher kings, embraces fluidity as a visual principle and his films are filled with life’s ebb and flow — its swirling waters, swooping birds, stirring trees, billowing curtains, and gliding people and cameras. He loves silence and stillness, and the image of sunlight caressing a woman’s motionless face. But he is a searcher, and that searching informs his visual style with its restless, moving pictures.
There’s much to take in here, including the film’s narrative fragmentation, which requires you to go with the flow as you also puzzle together the story’s parts, themes and circling characters: Faye (Rooney Mara), a musician trying to find her way in Austin, Tex.; Cook (Michael Fassbender), a music producer and Faye’s sometime lover; and BV (Ryan Gosling), a musician and Faye’s other lover. A few other lovelies float in as well, including Rhonda (a moving Natalie Portman), a waitress who marries Cook; Amanda (Cate Blanchett), who has an affair with BV; and Zoey (Bérénice Marlohe), who has an affair with Faye. Holly Hunter, Iggy Pop, Johnny Rotten and Val Kilmer also drop in.
Mr. Malick began embracing narrative fragmentation years ago and it has increasingly characterized his films. Most movies rely on formulas, employing three or four acts, story beats and character arcs that are so standard you almost intuitively know when something will happen if not what. There will be a crisis; there will be a tidying up. “Song to Song” has distinct sections, but Mr. Malick frames them his own way. They move the narrative forward, but inside these sections time can seem to stutter, like a song on repeat. Many scenes are so short that they don’t seem to be overtly driving the story forward, but instead pile up and nearly swirl, like leaves caught in a gust.
The first section traces the earlier, joyful moments shared by Faye, Cook and BV; by the final section, Faye is stepping once more into a natural pool of water, challenging Heraclitus’s observation that you cannot step into the same river twice (life changes). Throughout, Mr. Malick inserts shots and short scenes that seem more like shards of memory, like those flashes from the past that suddenly materialize in the temporal slipstream. Faye and Cook gaze at each other warily; Faye and BV embrace; Faye and Cook embrace; at one point, all three fly off in a private plane to Mexico, where they cavort on a beach, wander around and get drunk amid a relay of looks.
During this idyll, play turns into a rehearsal for a possible future that’s telegraphed by a baby whom BV holds in one scene and by a tiny, elderly woman trembling alone in another scene. Cook also speaks in muted voice-over about Faye and BV as if telling himself a story. “They have a beauty in their life,” he murmurs, “that makes me ugly.” You have to take his word for it, because there’s very little here that’s intentionally ugly in “Song to Song.” Ugliness hovers like a threat, but is often only inadvertently conveyed, as when the film reduces Mexicans to touristic props. Cook, by contrast, just seems like a rich, bored henhouse fox who throws parties where women wait to be chosen and where one lies on a table like a centerpiece, food covering her naked body.
Cook’s world is a stage show or so he tells BV, a sentiment that Mr. Malick seems to share. It’s a beautiful, seductive show, an endless carnival (with little actual work or sweat) filled with jostling, occasionally colliding bodies that — whether playing onstage, thrashing in a mosh pit or seductively grinding on the floor — seem to be reaching, reaching, always reaching for something beyond these earthly, fleeting, sensual delights. As in Mr. Malick’s 2016 film “Knight of Cups” (about a screenwriter), sex and especially sex without love inevitably proves to be a crucial false promise, a temptation that leads to suffering, cascading tears and sometimes catastrophic, even fatal falls.
“Song to Song” continually flits — like the butterfly seen in one fleeting shot — from theme to theme, from love (always love) to fidelity, betrayal, identity, art, freedom, captivity, forgiveness and mercy. God is there, too, in nature and in the glowing, streaming sunlight, but also in a Madonna painted on the side of a building and in a Leonardo drawing of the Virgin Mary. The Leonardo shows up in a scene with Patti Smith, who plays herself (St. Patti) and compares Mary’s face to Faye’s. Ms. Smith tears a hole in the film because she’s so thrillingly present, so alive; playing against Ms. Smith, Ms. Mara seems lost and she just disappears, poof, like a snuffed-out candle.
Despite Ms. Smith’s electric sincerity this exchange finally feels false because Ms. Mara can’t convey the interiority that it requires, the kind of astonishing inner truth — call it a fever or call it grace, passion or holiness — effortlessly expressed by Ms. Smith and manifest in Leonardo’s Madonna. Mr. Malick’s filmmaking, with its storytelling ellipses and visual fragments, places a heavy burden on his performers, who need to build their characters primarily through individual voice-overs and in onscreen silence or near-silence, in gestures and movement. Mr. Fassbender does this brilliantly; too often, Ms. Mara and Mr. Gosling seem to be running through different acting exercises.
“Song to Song” is filled with beautiful people adrift in beautiful (glass) houses and natural settings. All this loveliness has its pleasures, but Mr. Malick’s visual choices also give the film a commercial luster that can rob that beauty of its power. That’s partly because the advertising world and mainstream cinema have long pilfered his aesthetic, turning it into a sales pitch. Mr. Malick is enraptured with beauty as an expression of God and as a path to God. But in “Song to Song” both the familiarity of his aesthetic and the inability of some of his actors to summon an inner light create immaculately photographed surfaces rather than immanence. You see the poses, not the divine.
That’s disappointing, even if there’s also much here that’s exhilarating, including the film’s ambitions and its seriousness. Seriousness in cinema is often viewed with suspicion and that’s as true now as it was when, say, Antonioni shook up the art. The difference is that now seriousness (and beauty and grace) is rarely part of a wider discussion, because that conversation is dominated by corporate cinema, where there’s often little to argue over and get excited by. There is, by contrast, much to admire in “Song to Song” and much to argue with, including its ideas about pleasure and women. So go, fall into its embrace, resist its charms, argue. This may not be a film to love, but it is a film to see.
-Manohla Dargis, NY TIMES
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Becoming an Adult Model
SABRINA ASHLEY
Becoming an adult model is the career goal of many people. For some people, modeling is a glamorous and prestigious way to make good money. While adult modeling is only for people 18 years of age and older, it is a profession that accepts people of all races, sizes, shapes and genders. The main criterion for being an adult model is the willingness to be photographed nude or semi-nude. With a good portfolio and contacts, a person can achieve his goals of becoming an adult model.
First Steps in Adult Modeling
Adult Modeling Agencies
Adult Websites and Magazines
1 First Steps in Adult Modeling
Deciding on the type of adult modeling you want to do is an important first step. Adult modeling includes artistic nudes, lingerie photos and pornographic photos. Artistic modeling is more respectable, but you won’t make as much money as you would from lingerie modeling. Posing for photographs with graphic sexual content pays the most, but many people do not want to do this. Stay in your comfort zone and do the type of modeling work you can feel proud of. You also need to find a niche area such as large breasts, long legs, lingerie, gay, overweight, mature, young looking, tattooed or pregnant. Doing adult modeling just to pay the bills can lead to profound burnout. The most successful adult models love what they do.
2 The Portfolio
Having a book of photographs of yourself in various poses and situations (such as headshots, full length photos, and nudes or semi-nudes) is the best way of getting modeling jobs. You can get a portfolio by modeling free of charge for professional photographers. This is called TFCD or time for CD. In exchange for your time, you get a CD of digital photographs. There is also PFT.or prints for time. Many professional photographers need unpaid models for a variety of legitimate reasons. You can find local photographers that need models on Craigslist, in the adult help wanted section of classified ads, through flyers and websites, and by word of mouth.
3 Adult Modeling Agencies
Using a modeling agency is the beat way to get work. There are many legitimate modeling agencies that deal exclusively with adult modeling or have an adult modeling division in the company. Modeling agencies look at your portfolio and decide if they can find work for you. There is never a fee for this, and if the agency gets you modeling work, the company receives a percentage of the pay. Osterfeld Models is considered one of the best adult modeling agencies in the world. There is a directory of adult modeling agencies at the Jurgita website. (See Resource links.)
4 Adult Websites and Magazines
Contact adult websites. Adult websites and magazine are frequently looking for aspiring adult models. Look for websites and magazines that specialize in your niche. Whatever your niche, there is a website or magazine that caters to aficionados of that niche. If you don’t see a “models wanted” link on the website, contact the webmaster or the owner of the site. Email or phone magazines and tell them you are looking for modeling assignments and indicate which type of modeling you want to do.
How to Find Out What Type of Model You Can Be (Male)
How to Become a Calvin Klein Model
How Can I Become a Famous Model?
How to Become a Sports Illustrated Model
Foot Model Requirements
How to Be a Junior Model
How to Become a Maxim Magazine Model
How to Become a Clothes Model
How to Become a Music Video Girl
How to Make Money as a Freelance Makeup Artist
Online Modeling Schools
Different Sizes of Silicone Wristbands
What Are the Requirements to Become a Model?
What Skills Are Needed to Become a Model?
Victoria's Secret Model Requirements
Jobs for Studio Art Minors
What Does a Modeling Agent Do?
How to Become an Amateur Fashion Model
Online Schools to Become a Private Investigator
How to Start Modeling at Age 15
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Kevin Feige discusses plans for Black Panther 2
Chadwick Boseman passed away on August 28, leaving the future of the Black Panther saga up in the air.
During a recent interview with Yahoo!, Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige spoke out about the process of moving the narrative on, following Boseman's death.
Kevin Feige quoted that the comics and first movie were heavily focused on Wakanda's world, and there is a lot to explore with characters and their subculture in the place itself. This was always the case and initially it was the main focus of the next story, "he said".
"Ryan Coogler is hard at work, and continuing that legacy is job number one for us", Feige tells Yahoo Entertainment during an interview this weekend promoting the new Disney+ series WandaVision (watch above). He explains, "There's also the task of honoring and respecting the ongoing learnings and teachings from Chad as well".
Check out the cool skill Chadwick actually learned for his latest movie.
Marvel is set to move on to phase 4, beginning in just a few days with Wanda Vision as their first project from Disney Plus.
The untitled "Black Panther" sequel is now set for a July 8, 2022 release date.
He was also asked if we could ever see the return of the Netflix Marvel characters, including Daredevil, Jessica Jones and Luke Cage - to which Feige replied: "Never say never about anything".
Feige previously confirmed that Marvel Studios would not recast Boseman's role during Disney's investor's day presentation last month. We loved Chadwick Boseman as the Black Panther and will continue to remember him as our Wakanda's hero. For fans of Black Panther, this was a particularly tough pill to swallow, as the story of King T'Challa had not yet come to an end.
Despite the original Black Panther's absence, it seems Marvel Studios has big plans for the sequel.
Black Panther was a massive global hit at the box office in 2018, earning $700.4 million domestic, the highest-grossing movie at the domestic box office, and $1.34 billion worldwide, second only to Avengers: Infinity War ($2.04 billion) that year.
Kim Kardashian begins 2021 with plant-based diet
Katy Perry collaborates with Pokemon to celebrate the game’s 25th anniversary
Ford announces state of emergency, stay-at-home order in Ontario
No Time to Die Release Date Set to Be Delayed Again
Men's Six Nations tournament remains 'as scheduled' despite women's competition being postponed
Intel CEO Bob Swan replaced by VMWare's Pat Gelsinger
Ford: ‘Bad actors’ flouting emergency orders will be fined
Butcher accused of rape and murder of Libby Squire goes on trial
UN Ambassador's Planned Trip to Taiwan Canceled
Pregnant Kareena Kapoor looks breathtakingly handsome in her latest stunning snap
Potter relieved as Brighton win ‘traumatic’ Newport tie
Nowhere to rant as Google also suspends Donald Trump's YouTube account
TCL To Launch A Rollable Or Foldable Phone This Year
New Open-World Star Wars Game By The Division Developer Announced
Aryna Sabalenka wins third straight title in Abu Dhabi
United Kingdom reports new daily record of 1 564 COVID deaths
Master Quick Movie Review: Thalapathy Vijay And Vijay Sethupathi Present High-Voltage Entertainer
Britain's Francesca Jones bags a place in Australian Open main draw
Estonian Prime Minister Resigns Over Corruption Scandal, Denies Personal Involvement
U.S. emissions plummet to lowest levels in post-World War II era
First Minster announces further lockdown restrictions
All Hitman 3 locations confirmed
Boris Johnson warns United Kingdom intensive care capacity could be exceeded
Justin Timberlake and Demi Lovato will perform at Biden inauguration special
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Home Morocco
Coliving in Casablanca is Coming Soon!
Join the waitlist and you'll be the first to know when we're there!
Coliving is a modern form of shared housing for like-minded people to live, work and play together. Fully furnished, specially-designed living spaces create an inspiring environment for people to interact and share experiences.
The biggest value of joining a coliving space is access to the community.
Looking for a month to month lease?
Coliving spaces don’t force you into a yearly contract, they offer flexible short term rentals with leases starting from as short as even a week.
Destinations in Morocco
About Casablanca
A major financial hub of Africa, Casablanca in Morocco is a trendy location for digital nomads and their coliving communities. Its region boasts about 7 million people, and its port continues to support Casablanca’s position as a center of industry, import, and export, as well as the primary base for Morocco’s navy. Other regional inhabitants call Casablanca “Ad-dar Al-Bida,” which is in another dialect. Those native to the city, it's international inhabitants, and tourists often simply call the city “Casa.” Casablanca has a major history of French and Portuguese conquest, most notable in its present architecture. Presently, Casablanca is a site or excitement and development. Digital nomads find themselves inspired by the beautiful Casablanca coastline, its extensive bus network and fishing. To navigate Casablanca, you’ll want to brush up on basic Arabic and French.
Interesting facts about Casablanca:
- The city is home to Africa’s first skyscraper, Immeuble Liberte, constructed in 1949.
- Casablanca hosted the Mediterranean Games in 1983.
- The city’s nickname is “the breadbasket of Morocco” due to its food production- rich location in the Chawiya Plain.
- 44 percent of Morocco’s industrial production happens in Casablanca.
- There is a long history of Sephardic Judaism in Casablanca. While a synagogue was destroyed in an earthquake back in 1755, the Jewish Cemetery of Casablanca remains, as well as the Moroccan Jewish Museum. This is the only museum for Judaism in the Arab world.
- Casablanca has a public university (University of Hassan II Casablanca) and two private institutions (Université Mundiapolis and Université Internationale de Casablanca).
- It took over six years for 6,000 builders to complete the Hussan II Mosque in Casablanca. It was completed in 1993.
- The Corniche is a great place to go for boardwalk entertainment, clubs, restaurants, and the beach.
Looking for a coliving arrangement in one of the most unique cities in the world? Join the digital nomad hub and community in trendy (and historical) Casablanca.
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University staff set to strike in pensions’ row
TOPICS:PensionsUnionsUniversities
Academic unrest: industrial action at 61 higher education institutions is on the agenda.
Staff and university leaders are at loggerheads over plans to change the Universities Superannuation Scheme. A move the union says could cost lecturers £200,000 in retirement, Aban Contractor reports.
More than 60 universities could face 14 days of disruption next month after members of the University and College Union (UCU) backed industrial action in a row over potential changes to their pensions in the Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS).
Almost 90 per cent of UCU members who voted backed strike action and 93 per cent backed action short of a strike. The turnout was 58 per cent. A full breakdown of the results by institution is available here.
The union’s higher education committee is meeting today to discuss the results and plan an industrial action strategy should talks about the future of the scheme fail to deliver a solution. Those talks are currently scheduled to finish on Tuesday.
UCU said Universities UK (UUK) wants to transform the scheme from a defined benefit scheme that gives a guaranteed retirement income to a defined contribution scheme where pension income is subject to changes in the stock market.
Without reform now, universities will likely be forced to divert funding allocated from research and teaching to fill a pensions funding gap. The option of no reform is a dangerous gamble. It is a risk that employers cannot take. Universities UK
A Universities UK spokesperson said the prospect of industrial action at 61 out of the 68 higher education institutions balloted by UCU was disappointing as talks between employers and the union on USS pension reform continue.
“A solution to the significant funding challenges facing USS [which is reported to have a £17.5 billion deficit] needs to be found. UUK’s priority is to put USS on a secure and sustainable footing while offering attractive, market-leading pensions – the very best that can be afforded by both employers and employees,” the spokesperson said.
“We should be under no illusion; this is not a problem that will go away if ignored. To retain the status quo would only serve interests in the short term. Without reform now, universities will likely be forced to divert funding allocated from research and teaching to fill a pensions funding gap. The option of no reform is a dangerous gamble. It is a risk that employers cannot take.
Two rounds of cuts in USS benefits since 2011 have already left USS members with pensions worth less than those of school teachers and academics in the sector’s other pension scheme, the Teachers’ Pension Scheme. University and College Union
“If industrial action takes place it could cause disruption to students at some universities. We hope that this can be avoided through further talks with UCU and that union members carefully consider the possible impact on students of taking industrial action.”
However, UCU said independent modelling by First Actuarial of the proposals showed that a typical lecturer would lose £200,000 in retirement if the UUK plans were imposed and pointed to a move last week by the vice-chancellors of Warwick and Loughborough universities who criticised UUK for failing to guarantee retirement incomes for USS members.
The union said it hoped that the overwhelming mandate for strike action would focus universities’ minds and that more vice-chancellors would publicly pressure UUK to agree a deal. UCU said it was happy for talks to be extended in an attempt to resolve the issue without strike action.
The union said that two rounds of cuts in USS benefits since 2011 have already left USS members with pensions worth less than those of school teachers and academics in the sector’s other pension scheme, the Teachers’ Pension Scheme.
UCU general secretary Sally Hunt said: “UCU members have made it quite clear that they are prepared to take sustained strike action to defend their pensions.
“USS already offers worse benefits than other schemes available in universities, and UUK’s proposals would make matters worse. I hope more vice-chancellors will pressure their negotiators to work with us to resolve the matter without strike action.”
Sixty-one UK universities could be hit by industrial action
Aberdeen, The University
Bath, University of
Birkbeck College, University of London
Bristol, University of
Cambridge, University of
Courtauld Institute of Art
Dundee, The University of
East Anglia, University of
Edinburgh, University of
Essex, University of
Exeter, University of
Glasgow, The University of
Hull, The University of
Kent, The University of
Lancaster, University of
Leeds, The University of
Leicester, University of
Liverpool, University of
Manchester, The University of
Nottingham, The University of
Oxford, University of
Queen Mary, University of London
Reading, University of
Royal Veterinary College, University of London
Salford, The University of
Senate House, University of London
Sheffield, The University of
SOAS, University of London
Southampton, University of
St Andrews, University of
Stirling, The University of
Strathclyde, University of
Surrey, University of
Sussex, University of
University of Wales
Headline photo credit: Matt Gibson/Shutterstock.com
Higher education bill faces stiff examination
Q and A with Paul Jackson, outgoing chief executive of Engineering UK
Union warns of Brexit brain drain
Shifting sands of scientific progress
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Home / Programs / Search & Rescue
Each day an average of 136 people go missing in the United States. Many places lack the expertise and equipment to locate missing persons. To help fill this need, CAM has launched Search & Rescue as an arm of Rapid Response Services.
Read More about Search & Rescue
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Highlighted, Search & Rescue, Updates
It was a spring day in the mountains of Virginia, and Amelia was riding her bike. Suddenly she got disoriented, and abandoned her bike to try to find her way back home. Instead, she went further from her home. She was lost. Amelia is autistic, and mostly non-verbal....
Another chance for Trenton
Search & Rescue, Updates
A damp February afternoon found the Virginia Search & Rescue team looking for forty-year-old Trenton from Tennessee. Trenton had been missing from his home on several other occasions, but usually he was with someone. This time he was alone and had been missing for...
Arkansas Search & Rescue Swift water rescue
One evening at 9:30, the Arkansas Search & Rescue team was called to help several people stranded in their vehicles. Heavy rain washed two vehicles off a low water bridge by the Mulberry River close to Oark, Arkansas. To rescue the occupants, the Arkansas Search...
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« Just Joking Around with Your Youth Ministry
Youth Ministry Idea Creators »
Youth Ministry Question: What is Your Foundation?
Here is a handout to use with your youth ministry to focus in on your foundation. The tallest buildings in the world have impressively large and strong foundations, but nothing that can compare to the foundation that we have as Christians!
At over 828 meters (2,716.5 feet, that’s more than a half mile high) and more than 160 stories, Burj Khalifa holds the following records:
Tallest building in the world
Tallest free-standing structure in the world
Highest number of stories in the world
Highest occupied floor in the world
Highest outdoor observation deck in the world
Highest swimming pool in the world
Highest restaurant in the world
Elevator with the longest travel distance in the world
Tallest service elevator in the world
The elevator, it travels at about 40 miles per hour and reaches the observation deck in about 2 minutes.
On the observation deck near the top, it is nearly 15 degrees cooler than at the building’s base.
Dubai is built in the middle of the desert, so to withstand the UAE’s 120-degree blistering summer heat the tower is covered with 24,348 cladding panels.
The Burj Khalifa weights 500,000 tons.
The foundation slab of the Burj Khalifa is 80,000 sq ft in size and is supported by massive 1.5m in diameter steel piles which dig into the earth at 50 meters deep.
This massive foundation is needed to support a structure of this magnitude. Without a foundation to support the massive building, the Burj Khalifa would simply fall in on itself under the strain of its weight of 500,000 tons.
The foundation is important to the building, so that it can stand tall through the harsh 120 degree weather, and the violent wind storms that are common in Dubai. In your life you need a foundation to support you. Your foundation allows you to stand tall through rough and trying times that you will endure.
So who/what makes up your foundation? What do you stand for? What are your principles? Who do you look to for help?
Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.”
When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at his teaching, because he taught as one who had authority, and not as their teachers of the law.
Jesus clearly states that His Word is our foundation. Jesus Christ is our foundation along with his teachings.
1.Knowing that we are built on perfect foundations of Jesus, how can you help others who may not have Jesus as their foundation in life?
2.When has your foundation and belief helped you through a difficult time?
3.The Burj Khalifa is a testament to how strong it’s foundation is. How can we be a testament to how strong our foundation (Jesus Christ) is through how we conduct ourselves?
Download the Handout directly from the link below:
Downloads,Youth Ministry,Youth Ministry Questions
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NBPA Top 100 Camp PM Recap: Thon Maker continues to send a message
By Scott PhillipsJun 19, 2015, 10:30 AM EDT
Kelly Kline/Under Armour
CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. — Thon Maker is the most popular high school basketball player in America when it comes to the casual basketball fan. Because of the hype surrounding a mixtape of Maker made well over a year ago — which unfairly compared the high school big man to Kevin Durant based on some highlights curated over months of game footage — he’s become a household name with American basketball fans.
The last few months for Maker, however, have been a whirlwind. The 7-foot-0 big man enrolled at Orangeville Prep in Ontario before last high school season. He tried as hard as possible to graduate early and enroll in the Class of 2015 so he could play college basketball early. That didn’t quite work out. There were even long-standing rumors Maker would try to graduate this December and enroll at a college for the second semester of the 2015-16 season.
All of those reclassification rumors were put to rest on Thursday as Maker told a group of reporters, including NBCSports.com’s Rob Dauster, that he plans on playing the entire 2015-16 season as a high school player and (potentially) enroll in college after. The news of Maker staying in high school is significant because a potentially talented contributor won’t suit up in the college ranks next season.
Staying in high school for another full season also seems to have given Maker the freedom to be a kid and a basketball prospect again.
After some sluggish play during the high school season, Maker has started to play in some recent events and it’s come to a pinnacle at the NBPA Top 100 Camp this week. He’s been arguably the best player here. Maker leads the camp in scoring at 17.8 points per game and was particularly impressive in Thursday night’s camp win. Maker went for 22 points on 8-for-11 shooting (2-for-3 3-point) and hit numerous tough shots while also snaring seven rebounds.
He’s run the floor hard, looked like a complete offensive weapon and also protected the rim. Now that Maker is in the Class of 2016, if he continues to play like this, he’s going to be in the discussion among the best prospects in the 2016 class.
RELATED: NBPA Top 100 Camp Thursday Morning Recap
— Playing with Maker was Class of 2016 point guard Xavier Simpson, who had a strong evening session with 25 points (11-13 shooting), four assists and three rebounds. Simpson shook off a rough morning session to have an efficient outing where he scored from multiple levels, set up teammates and looked good in both the open floor and half-court settings.
— Class of 2017 big men Nick Richards and Mohamed Bamba both showed ridiculous flashes of potential on both ends of the floor on Thursday night, but both big men received minimal offensive touches thanks in-part to shot-happy guards.
— Speaking of shot-happy guards, there are plenty of them at the NBPA Top 100 Camp this year. While guards always have a propensity to shoot a high volume of shots in the camp setting, this year’s camp seems to be as bad as ever in terms of some players looking to get theirs each time they get minutes.
— New York native Shamorie Ponds has put up good scoring numbers this week after also being a high-level scorer with the New York Lightning in the Nike EYBL. The lefty guard went for 16 points on 8-for-15 shooting and did much of his damage in transition.
— Class of 2016 power wing Deshawn Corprew went for 22 points on 10-for-17 shooting on Thursday night. Corprew put together a productive spring with Boo Williams and always plays with a high motor every time he sets foot on the floor.
— Udoka Azubuike, a monster of a Class of 2016 prospect, nearly brought down the rim with one powerful two-handed dunk on his way to 16 points on 7-for-8 shooting. The big man’s power moves have been tough to stop in the early part of camp.
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Conservative Heroes, Education Reform Rock Stars
You don't have to be President of the United States to trigger earth moving change.
If you doubt that, take the case of the Douglas County School Board. In 2009, a cabal of top shelf conservative thinkers, leaders, movers and shakers decided that they wanted more from their local schools.
They waged a fierce and at times controversial race to evict school board members who had become cozy with the failed educational status quo. The unions fought them at every turn. It was the rare school board election that received significant statewide and national attention.
Now it is becoming a rare school board election that was about something profound. Real education reform.
After being hailed at a national education conference in Denver last month for another innovative reform, the Douglas County school board has embarked on a cutting edge voucher, or scholarship, program.
This groundbreaking program has caught the eye of observers across the nation, even drawing an editorial attack from the LA Times:
Public schooling is, at least in theory, the great equalizer and meritocracy, in which hardworking, committed students have an equal chance to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to accomplish great things. Using public money to support a fragmented private school model with vastly unequal offerings is not the way to build a stronger educational system.
Perhaps the presumptuous purveyors of liberalism at the LA Times harbor the grand aspiration that every school district across the fruited plain trap young men and women in a public school sewer like their own LA unified school district. Forgive Douglas County residents and their school board for seeing the matter a little differently.
The major newspaper editorial board from Colorado strongly supports the school board's decision:
Traditional public schools, no matter how fine they might be, don't have all of the answers for all of the children…While we believe strongly in traditional public schools, the tremendous challenges facing this country in education need to be answered with innovation and choice.
We'd call that a conservative win — an attack from coastal liberals fighting for more of the same, but support from a reform minded editorial board who is paying closer attention.
Most importantly, as the Denver Post reports the program is finding overwhelming support from parents:
“By the time exhausted office staffers went home Wednesday evening, they had logged more than 400 calls from parents wanting to get in on the program.”
The school district has one of the highest parental satisfaction rates in the country, leading defenders of stagnation and the status quo to complain there is no reason to institute a voucher program.
Douglas County schools didn't achieve their greatness by sticking with the status quo. Parents already have the option of nine charter schools, two online programs or home schooling. Choice and competition have strengthened the schools, not hampered them. The results speak for themselves.
Educational choice has been a resounding success for Douglas County students. The conservative board members want to extend that success with more choice. The CEA wanted less choice, but more control for itself.
This is a familiar and tired argument taking place between retrenchment and reform. But this time the Douglas County school board is taking their mandate and spending that political capital wisely on groundbreaking educational transformation.
The failed and failing forces of educational stagnation have lost, and the Douglas County regiment of reform has the winds and parents at their back.
Watch for more great things to come out of Douglas County schools, just don't expect to hear about their successes in the Colorado "Independent" or other leftist rags.
icequeen on March 25, 2011 at 7:08 pm
My hope is that the state and the nation will continue to pay attention to Douglas County. If they can prove how successful this system is, maybe the rest of the nation will catch on. I’m tired of having all of our students suffer equally, I want real reform.
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WHAT THE FRACK? Ballot Mayhem In Broomfield, As Clerk Considers Counting Boulder Ballots Received After Election
There has been a sudden uptick in chatter from Peak Nation™ about irregularities in the recount over the fracking ban in Broomfield.
The Broomfield ban, as we wrote before the election, was the one proposed ban on hydraulic fracturing that was worth watching because that ban occurred in something akin to a swing community as opposed to a liberal stronghold. (Broomfield actually isn’t a true swing community — Barack Obama carried it twice, and Mark Udall and Michael Bennet both carried it handily — but it is certainly more so than the liberal bastions of Boulder and Ft. Collins)
Forced to compete in a left of center community, the frack banners are actually losing, albeit by a small margin — 13 votes
Heading into a recount, though, strange things are happening in Broomfield. We haven’t had time to run down all the paranormal voting activities, but these two stand out.
Cliff Willmeng
One trusted source reported that a well-known fracktivist, Cliff Willmeng tried to escort an elderly woman in to get a ballot to vote just yesterday.
Cliff, was that you trying to commit voter fraud, or were you just being a good neighbor and helping your grandma vote? Our source tells us Mr. Willmeng was denied.
Today things are getting even weirder, with reports of magically appearing ballots and an email from one trusted source reporting that the Clerk and Recorder is actively considering counting a FedEx package full of votes mailed from Boulder and received after the election date.
Packages from Boulder with votes on a Broomfield election question?
Counting ballots received after the election?
Cliff Willmeng trying to get Granny Frackellberry a new ballot?
If someone sees Cliff, the Elections Chief in Broomfield, or the District Attorney for that matter, would you mind asking them what in the world is going on?
On the question of whether or not to count ballots not received by Election Day, we would refer Broomfield vote counters to our two favorite liberal blogs for legal clarification:
Kevin M. Koop on November 18, 2013 at 11:32 pm
No! Some people just deserve a kick in the ass!
Philip Fallis on November 16, 2013 at 9:05 am
Right Cliff I'm sure between raising your kids and working a real job you've got nothing better to do…
Scott Jacobsen on November 16, 2013 at 1:43 am
I don't believe that he cares as much as he says he does. He just wants the status and celebrity limelight
Mike L Shelton on November 15, 2013 at 9:24 pm
Here's another thing to think about: Filtering kids to schools based on District Boundaries is archaic, cumbersome and limits choice, competition. While we have boundaries, then changing them to adapt to shifts in population, new schools, etc. is a healthy practice, but it also obviously causes confusion. Adams 12 has changed their boundaries 10 times over the past seven years: http://www.adams12.org/boundary_process_timeline
Irregardless, governments and districts (and political opponents) should always be vigilant in checking the qualifications of candidates.
My friend Joseph, allow me to respectfully clear a few things up, and perhaps defend Jim Candelarie also.
Speers is indeed ineligible, but the ballots were already printed and she refused to withdraw from the race, and believe it or not, State Law is not clear about what to do in this case. Broomfield and Adams Counties asked the Secretary of State to clarify and he did on Nov 5:
10.7.5 If the designated election official determines [Adams 12 School District], after ballots are printed, that an individual whose name appears on the ballot is not qualified for office, the votes cast for that individual are invalid and must not be counted.
The machines were already set to tabulate results from this race and cannot be changed during the election, so her votes are going to be tabulated even though she's ineligible, its just a matter of whether they'll be published or not. However, since they are public record, a CORA request will undoubtedly reveal how many votes she received, but again, it won't matter.
The most sensible message to receive from all this is that Adams 12 messed up big time by not checking their boundaries and they need to fix that. There is no sense in placing blame on Clerks who have their hands tied by Laws that sometimes aren't precise enough, or need to be changed quickly to accommodate.
J.p. Weichel on November 15, 2013 at 7:57 pm
Cliff Willmeng your a poster boy for some america hating ass hat of a liberal. People like you are what is destroying this country. Your pathetic.
Cliff Willmeng on November 15, 2013 at 4:44 pm
http://m.youtube.com/watch?feature=youtu.be&v=JxI7ERflFfM&desktop_uri=%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DJxI7ERflFfM%26feature%3Dyoutu.be
So do you Intend on stopping volcanos, and natural oil and gas seeps? What your doing by spreading fear and propaganda is not helping. Why don't you put thus energy into something productive like improving frac technology. Make a difference, not a scene.
Tori Sue Petersen on November 15, 2013 at 3:38 am
Class act! Love media now a days!
Cliff Willmeng on November 15, 2013 at 12:27 am
Of course Scott, just as soon as the industry that uses the atmosphere as its dumping ground can remove itself from utilizing air and water. The sad truth is that it does not matter what we do, or even if Colorado used no fossil fuel at all. Oil and gas are commodities, mined for profit by international corporations and that will ultimately be sold on the world market. In the mean time the costs will be externalized onto the public in the form of pollution and health impacts. So just because we attempt to boycott their products does not mean that the industry will no longer come for the community, public will or no.
Scott Jacobsen on November 15, 2013 at 12:09 am
*stop
If your so against franking and the oil and gas industry I suggest you atop being a hypocrite and refrain from using anything that uses petroleum or natural gas.
Mike Walker on November 15, 2013 at 12:03 am
PLEASE SHARE love that photo http://www.independent.co.uk/news/science/vast-methane-plumes-seen-in-arctic-ocean-as-sea-ice-retreats-6276278.html
Cliff Willmeng on November 14, 2013 at 11:40 pm
Glen Willmeng No – I really have no idea where they came up with that story. But given the opportunity, I would gladly help a senior citizen to vote, for sure.
Glen Willmeng on November 14, 2013 at 11:39 pm
Did you really walk an old lady to vote?
I'm going to have to start charging them royalties for that photo.
Danielle Diamond on November 14, 2013 at 10:57 pm
Your trusted sources shouldn't be quoted so eagerly. Apart from being anonymously reported, they are also entirely wrong, similar to many oil and gas claims involving community self determination. Despite hundreds of thousands of dollars of that outside money, Broomfield wasn't convinced that the industry actually has their interests in mind. And you should do your readers the favor of informing them that this photo is actually of a character on a music video, and therefore fictional, or make believe. But if those are your standards of reporting, it would make sense that no respectable author or industry would want to attach their name to it. Paranormal indeed. Remember this last spring when the Colorado Oil and Gas Association turned in petitions with falsified names? What ever happened to that police investigation? http://www.coloradoan.com/article/20130603/NEWS01/306030017/Fort-Collins-Police-investigating-error-filled-COGA-fracking-petition
Teresa Maes Koeckhoven on November 14, 2013 at 10:04 pm
Violent are you…
Joseph Hein on November 14, 2013 at 8:40 pm
Disturbing…. the Broomfield clerk is Jim Candelarie. He is the same clerk that was willing to count votes for *ineligible*, union-backed, Klingon speaking school board candidate, Amy Speers, who lived OUTSIDE of the director district for which she was running. And yes, you read that right – the message was nearly: "run in any race, anywhere in the state and never change addresses; and you could be elected, or at least impact the vote, so long as you're not caught." The Secretary of State had to intervene to prevent that count and awful precedent from happening. Perhaps it's time for another intervention….
Don T. Frack d'Forque on November 14, 2013 at 8:03 pm
Remind me why if the Broomfield vote was the only one that matters industry dumped $1M into defeating all four (mostly–perhaps totally–unsuccessfully) again? EXTRA CREDIT: How does repeating the transparently self-serving nonsense that industry and its apologists (aka, you) didn't really care about the ballots in Boulder, Lafayette or Ft Collins ("Those grapes were sour anyways!") bolster your overall credibility?
Deanne Weiss on November 14, 2013 at 6:57 pm
CO Peak Poli…..you ALWAYS make my day!!! ~hopelessly devoted to YOU! ♫ (here in Broomfield)
Aaron Lore on November 14, 2013 at 5:45 pm
Time for another recall!!!!
Kevin M. Koop on November 14, 2013 at 5:01 pm
Cliff nice middle finger. What do you expect from an a poorly educated coward liberal? I dare Cliff to flick me off to my face. That finger would be broke in under 2 seconds!
Ed Hunnicutt on November 14, 2013 at 4:46 pm
Cliff Willmeng, with actions like what was reported, is attempting to retain his donor base as opposed to actually making a difference for a cause he claims to believe in… Politics is all about money these days folks.. But a guy who daringly flips the "world" the "Bird", is really telling anyone who ends up seeing the photo to "F**K off", and people gave this guy money to do this…
Colorado Peak Politics - POOR JUDGMENT: Broomfield Fracking Ban Ruling Proves No Need for Election Laws - [...] on November 14, 2013, we reported about the shenanigans that were going on in Broomfield around this election, including…
Recount Official Played Key Role in Anti-Fracking Campaign | The Colorado Observer - [...] conservative political website Colorado Peak Politics suggested on November 14 that one prominent anti-fracking activist, Cliff Willmeng, may have…
As Election Irregularities Mount, Future of Broomfield Frack Ban in Doubt | North Suburban Republican Forum - [...] conservative political website Colorado Peak Politics suggested on November 14 that one prominent anti-fracking activist, Cliff Willmeng, may have [...]
As Election Irregularities Mount, Future of Broomfield Frack Ban in Doubt | The Colorado Observer - [...] conservative political website Colorado Peak Politics suggested on November 14 that one prominent anti-fracking activist, Cliff Willmeng, may have…
Colorado Peak Politics - “DELAYED INDEFINITELY”: Broomfield Anti-Fracking Mandatory Recount Postponed - [...] recently has drawn scrutiny for voting irregularities in Broomfield. Here are two examples from our report last week: “One…
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The Walking Dead’s Cooper Andrews Reveals the Backstory He Imagined for Jerry
By Cameron Bonomolo - August 14, 2020 10:30 pm EDT
The Walking Dead star Cooper Andrews, who plays burly bodyguard Jerry, imagines his character might have traded a barometer for a battle-ax at the onset of the zombie apocalypse. Jerry was introduced alongside his majesty in Season 7 Episode 2, "The Well," as the faithful steward of best bud King Ezekiel (Khary Payton), the theatrical leader of the Kingdom. Now a tenured fan-favorite and series regular who panicked viewers when he almost bit it in this year's midseason premiere — where he was clawed at by walkers while trying to squeeze his way out of a tight spot — Jerry is still a closed book even to Andrews.
"I didn't [receive a backstory]. I always felt my character was so in the moment that whatever he was beforehand, it just didn't matter to him," Andrews said during the Scares That Care 2020 Virtual Convention. "And performance-wise, I don't like giving myself that kind of rule, especially on a show like this where we can be anything now [in the apocalypse]."
While shooting The Walking Dead's snowy Season 9 finale, "The Storm," which sees Jerry and other displaced Kingdom survivors navigate a harsh blizzard, Andrews imagined Jerry was a weather presenter pre-apocalypse.
"I fancied being a weatherman when we had that snow episode at the end of Season 9," Andrews said. "I just think it would be really funny if we're going by a bus on horses, and you see my face [laughs]."
There were a "few different versions" of the character who would become Jerry during the audition process, including one iteration that was "zen-like."
"I don't know quite what the plan was with Jerry. For me it was, being such a fan of the show, trying to find a comedy that worked for it and within it, which is always difficult," Andrews recalled. "And so I think we just sort of rolled with it, just sort of seeing how it happened."
During a convention appearance earlier this year, Andrews admitted he expected Jerry to be a short-lived character when he won the role in the show's seventh season.
"My first season, I was like, 'Alright, I'm gonna do four or five episodes, I'll probably die at the end of it, and that'll be fun. I'll get to say I did Walking Dead,'" Coopers said at GalaxyCon Richmond. "I had no clue of the reaction I would get from people, the character, I had no clue. I was just hoping people wouldn't hate the guy, and just knowing that the little more that's been happening every season, I've just been excited about and grateful for."
Andrews next appears in The Walking Dead Season 10 finale, "A Certain Doom," where Jerry fights alongside the coalition in the deadly final battle of the Whisperer War.
For all things TWD, follow the author @CameronBonomolo on Twitter. The Walking Dead Season 10 finale premieres Sunday, October 4 on AMC.
WandaVision: Glamor and Illusion Marvel Comics Easter Egg Explained
WandaVision: What Is SWORD?
WandaVision: How Is Vision Alive?
WandaVision: Tom Hiddleston Accuses Paul Bettany of Stealing Loki's Gimmick
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Undone By Blood #3
Writer: Lonnie Nadler, Zac Thompson Artist: Sami Kivela Publisher: Aftershock Comics Release Date: June 10, 2020 Cover Price: $3.99 Critic Reviews: 2 User Reviews: 2
With a new lead pointing toward her family's killer, Ethel uncovers the sinister secrets hidden beneath the quaint surface of Sweetheart, AZ and its famed high school foot-ball team. But when she sticks her nose where it doesn't belong, the townspeople don't take kindly to it and display their ruthless hospitality. Despite her bruises, Ethel is more determined than ever, and she owes it all to the famed fictional gunslinger, Sol-omon Eaton. Meanwhile, the cowboy faces his own complications in the form of be-trayal and must decide what he values more: companionship or violence.
From the minds of Lonnie Nadler and Zac Thompson (The Dregs, X-Men, HER IN-FERNAL DESCENT) and artist Sami Kivela (Abbot, Tommy Gun Wizards) comes a neo-western that depicts the hard truth of seeking vengeance in the real world. more
AIPT - Arbaz M. Khan Jun 11, 2020
Overall, it's nice to have this adventure back in stores. It's wonderful to get a bang for your buck with two genuinely unique narratives. Read Full Review
The Fandom Post - Chris Beveridge Jun 12, 2020
There's a lot to like with Ethel's story and how she holds herself even as she really gets beaten down a lot. It's also an interesting contrast to the old west story where we see a journey of betrayal play out there that's interesting in a kind of superficial way but where I feel like I'm still missing something critical about it. It's a nice bit of color to contrast the modern events for Ethel but it hasn't been compelling reading. That said, this installment of it worked a lot better as we watch the betrayal unfold and how it's solved so that he'll live another day. I'm curious to see where it goes but I wish I felt like it had more meaning or that I was grokking what it's really doing there. Read Full Review
Silver Rocket Jun 18, 2020
Phil B. Jun 15, 2020
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SPIDER-GWEN OMNIBUS
Written by JASON LATOUR, HANNAH BLUMENREICH, TOM TAYLOR, ROBBIE THOMPSON, DENNIS HOPELESS
& BRIAN MICHAEL BENDIS
Penciled by ROBBI RODRIGUEZ, CHRIS VISIONS, BENGAL, HANNAH BLUMENREICH, OLIVIA MARGRAF, MARCIO TAKARA, VANESA R. DEL REY, TANA FORD, JOELLE JONES, NICO LEON, SARA PICHELLI & MORE
COVERS BY ROBBI RODRIGUEZ & NICK BRADSHAW
Out of the Spider-Verse, Gwen Stacy swings into action as the Spider-Woman of Earth-65 — a neighborhood like no other! Gwen balances super hero life with being the daughter of a cop — and playing drums in up-and-coming band, the Mary Janes! And you won’t believe her reality’s versions of the Lizard, the Osborns, Matt Murdock, Captain America, Frank Castle and more! The dimension-hopping Gwen joins a team-up of Spider-Women, and sparks fly when she meets Miles Morales! But troubles mount up at home, where she becomes S.H.I.E.L.D.’s most wanted — and problems with her powers lead to the introduction of Earth-65’s Venom! Experience Jason Latour and Robbi Rodriguez’s complete, world-building run! Collecting EDGE OF SPIDER-VERSE #2, SPIDER-GWEN (2015A) #1-5, SPIDER-GWEN (2015B) #1-34, SPIDER-GWEN ANNUAL #1, ALL-NEW WOLVERINE ANNUAL #1, SPIDER-WOMEN ALPHA and OMEGA, SILK (2015B) #7-8, SPIDER-WOMAN (2015) #6-7 and SPIDER-MAN (2016) #12-14.
1224 PGS./Rated T+ …$125.00
X-MEN: AGE OF APOCALYPSE OMNIBUS (3rd PRINTING)
Written by SCOTT LOBDELL, MARK WAID, FABIAN NICIEZA, JEPH LOEB, LARRY HAMA, JOHN FRANCIS MOORE, WARREN ELLIS
& HOWARD MACKIE
Penciled by ROGER CRUZ, ANDY KUBERT, STEVE EPTING, CHRIS BACHALO, JOE MADUREIRA, ADAM KUBERT, STEVE SKROCE, KEN LASHLEY, TONY DANIEL, SALVADOR LARROCA & MORE
Covers by BILLY TAN & JOE MADUREIRA
ON SALE JUNE 2021
Charles Xavier is dead — killed in the past during a time-travel accident — and without his dream, the present has become a nightmare! Apocalypse rules with an iron fist, ruthlessly enforcing his “survival of the fittest” creed…but hidden among a downtrodden humankind are Magneto’s ragtag freedom fighters: the X-Men! When Bishop, last survivor of the true Marvel Universe, explains how the world went wrong, these embittered mutants must risk everything — and undertake a dangerous and complex quest — to put things right! Collecting UNCANNY X-MEN (1981) #320-321, X-MEN (1991) #40-41, CABLE (1993) #20, X-MEN ALPHA and OMEGA, AMAZING X-MEN (1995) #1-4, ASTONISHING X-MEN (1995) #1-4, FACTOR X #1-4, GAMBIT & THE X-TERNALS #1-4, GENERATION NEXT #1-4, WEAPON X (1995) #1-4, X-CALIBRE #1-4, X-MAN #1-4, AGE OF APOCALYPSE: THE CHOSEN and X-MEN ASHCAN #2.
X-MEN: AGE OF APOCALYPSE COMPANION OMNIBUS (2nd PRINTING)
Written by HOWARD MACKIE, SCOTT LOBDELL, RALPH MACCHIO, JOHN FRANCIS MOORE, BRIAN K. VAUGHAN, TERRY KAVANAGH, JUDD WINICK, TONY BEDARD, MARIANO NICIEZA, RICK REMENDER & MORE
Penciled by TERRY DODSON, IAN CHURCHILL, JOE BENNETT, STEVE EPTING, NICK NAPOLITANO, ROGER CRUZ, LUKE ROSS, TREVOR MCCARTHY, CARLOS PACHECO, JIM CALAFIORE, CHRIS BACHALO, HECTOR GOMEZ, KEVIN HOPGOOD, DAVE WILKINS & MORE
Covers by ADAM KUBERT & BRYAN HITCH
It’s a return trip to the dark, dystopian Age of Apocalypse! Untold tales of Apocalypse’s rise to power and the beginning of the X-Men’s underground resistance! Blink’s extradimensional exploits! The desperate struggle of Earth’s remaining non-mutant heroes! And after Apocalypse’s defeat, a deeply scarred Earth tries to rebuild…but some of the AoA’s most powerful mutants have escaped into the Marvel Universe! All the orphaned AoA adventures are collected in one oversize volume! Collecting X-MEN CHRONICLES #1-2, TALES FROM THE AGE OF APOCALYPSE #1-2, X-MAN #-1 and #53-54, BLINK #1-4, X-UNIVERSE #1-2, EXILES (2001) #60-61, X-MEN: AGE OF APOCALYPSE #1-6 and ONE-SHOT, WHAT IF? (1989) #77 and #81 and WHAT IF? X-MEN: AGE OF APOCALYPSE — plus material from HULK: BROKEN WORLDS #2, X-MAN ANNUAL ’96, OFFICIAL HANDBOOK OF THE MARVEL UNIVERSE: AGE OF APOCALYPSE 2005 and AGE OF APOCALYPSE subplot pages.
992 PGS./Rated T …$125.00
slop101
Hmmm... I have the Premier Classic HC that collects Longshot 1-6 - I wonder how the Masterworks edition will differ.
Regardless, I'm holding off until Uncanny Omnibus 5 that should collect that as well.
HEROES REBORN OMNIBUS (2nd PRINTING)
Written by ROB LIEFELD, JEPH LOEB, JAMES ROBINSON, JIM VALENTINO, WALTER SIMONSON, JIM LEE, BRANDON CHOI, SCOTT LOBDELL & PETER DAVID
Penciled by ROB LIEFELD, JOE PHILLIPS, JOE BENNETT, CHAP YAEP, IAN CHURCHILL, MICHAEL RYAN, JIM LEE, BRETT BOOTH, RON LIM, WHILCE PORTACIO, RYAN BENJAMIN, TERRY SHOEMAKER, ED BENES, MIKE DEODATO JR. & MORE
Covers by BRETT BOOTH & JIM LEE
Marvel’s greatest heroes, revamped and reborn! Featuring Captain America, Iron Man, Thor, Hulk, the FF and more — on a whole new world, boldly reimagined by the hottest creators of the 1990s! Steve Rogers takes on the mantle of the Sentinel of Liberty, gains a brand-new sidekick and faces down the Red Skull! Cap, Hawkeye, Vision, Swordsman, Hellcat and more form the Avengers, but can they awaken Thor and defeat the devious Loki? The Fantastic Four face old threats for the first time, from the Mole Man to Doctor Doom! The newly forged Iron Man takes on Hydra and the incredible Hulk! But can these reborn heroes save the Earth from the hunger of Galactus? Collecting HEROES REBORN #1/2, CAPTAIN AMERICA (1996) #1-12, AVENGERS (1996) #1-12, FANTASTIC FOUR (1996) #1-12, IRON MAN (1996) #1-12 and material from INCREDIBLE HULK (1968) #450.
1360 PGS./Rated T+ Â…$125.00
HEROES REBORN OMNIBUS HC LEE COVER (NEW PRINTING, DM ONLY)
WOLVERINE OMNIBUS VOL. 2
Written by PETER DAVID, ARCHIE GOODWIN, JO DUFFY, WALTER SIMONSON, ALAN DAVIS, MARV WOLFMAN, ERIK LARSEN, MICHAEL HIGGINS, HOWARD MACKIE & MORE
Penciled by JOHN BUSCEMA, JOHN BYRNE, GENE COLAN, KLAUS JANSON, BARRY KITSON, BILL JAASKA, HOWARD CHAYKIN, MIKE MIGNOLA, ALAN DAVIS, ERIK LARSEN, ROB LIEFELD, DAVE ROSS, PAUL RYAN & MARK TEXEIRA
COVERS BY JIM LEE, JOHN BYRNE & BARRY WINDSOR-SMITH
The best there is, by some of comics’ greatest talents! On the cutthroat island of Madripoor, Wolverine and Jessica Drew take on an evil cult that plans to raise an ancient demon with the mystical Gehenna Stone! An old friend’s death leads Logan to Nick Fury, but what is the surprising secret under the new Scorpio’s mask? Wolverine battles an unexpected foe in the jungles of the Savage Land — but when he follows a trail of tainted cocaine to Central America, can a young revolutionary help a sick and infected Logan survive against Tiger Shark? And what is the Lazarus Project? Plus: Wolverine crosses paths with Spider-Man, the Hulk, Ghost Rider and more! Collecting WOLVERINE (1988) #11-30, WOLVERINE/NICK FURY: THE SCORPIO CONNECTION, WOLVERINE: THE JUNGLE ADVENTURE, WOLVERINE: BLOODLUST and material from MARVEL COMICS PRESENTS (1988) #38-71.
MAN-THING OMNIBUS (2nd PRINTING)
Written by ROY THOMAS, GERRY CONWAY, STEVE GERBER, TONY ISABELLA, LEN WEIN, MARV WOLFMAN, CHRIS CLAREMONT, RALPH MACCHIO, MICHAEL FLEISHER, DOUG MCKENZIE & J.M. DEMATTEIS
Penciled by GRAY MORROW, JOHN BUSCEMA, RICH BUCKLER, JIM STARLIN, VAL MAYERIK, MIKE PLOOG, ALFREDO ALCALA, VICENTE ALCAZAR, RICO RIVAL, ED HANNIGAN, RON WILSON, JIM MOONEY, TOM SUTTON, JOHN BYRNE, DON PERLIN, GENE COLAN, LARRY HAMA & PAT BRODERICK
Covers by ARIEL OLIVETTI & FRANK BRUNNER
Neither wholly plant nor animal, neither entirely self-aware nor totally non-sentient, the creature called the Man-Thing is unique, unchanging and alone — but none who encounter him can ever be the same again. Empathic by nature and drawn to fight evil, his shambling visage inspires fear — and whatever knows fear burns at the Man-Thing’s touch! Whether danger rises from the swamp or the city, the past or the future, outer space or the human soul, the Man-Thing awaits! Collecting ASTONISHING TALES (1970) #12-13, FEAR #11-19, MAN-THING (1974) #1-22, GIANT-SIZE MAN-THING #1-3, INCREDIBLE HULK (1968) #197-198, MARVEL TEAM-UP (1972) #68, MARVEL TWO-IN-ONE (1974) #43, MAN-THING (1979) #1-11 and DOCTOR STRANGE (1974) #41 — plus material from SAVAGE TALES (1971) #1, FEAR #10, GIANT-SIZE MAN-THING #4-5, MONSTERS UNLEASHED (1973) #5 and #8-9 and RAMPAGING HULK (1977) #7.
1192 PGS./Parental Advisory …$125.00
CAPTAIN AMERICA BY TA-NEHISI COATES VOL. 2 OHC
Written by TA-NEHISI COATES, MICHAEL CHO
& ANTHONY FALCONE
Penciled by JASON MASTERS, SEAN IZAAKSE, NIKO WALTER, BOB QUINN, LUCAS WERNECK, DANIEL ACUÑA, LEONARD KIRK & MICHAEL CHO
Cover by ALEX ROSS
Ta-Nehisi Coates continues to put the Sentinel of Liberty through the wringer! Framed for a crime he did not commit and pursued by a dogged Nick Fury, Steve Rogers takes on the Power Elite and their insidious minions — with help from the Daughters of Liberty! Disgraced and hunted, Steve has been forced underground — but he’s not down and out yet. And the hour is drawing nigh when he will once again pick up the shield and don the stars and stripes! But which of Steve’s closest allies will do the same with the armor of the Iron Patriot? And who will be the new Agent 13? But even as Captain America returns, so too does his greatest enemy — and now Steve Rogers must marshal his forces to face the reborn Red Skull! Collecting CAPTAIN AMERICA (2018) #13-25.
JoeGuy
MARVEL MASTERWORKS: DAREDEVIL VOL. 15 HC
Written by FRANK MILLER & ROGER McKENZIE with MICHAEL FLEISHER, DAVID MICHELINIE
& RALPH MACCHIO
Penciled by FRANK MILLER with STEVE DITKO & PAUL GULACY
Cover by FRANK MILLER
One of the most influential runs in not just Marvel history, but all of comics history begins with the arrival of Frank Miller as the creative force behind DAREDEVIL! Miller remade the mythos of the Man Without Fear, first illustrating Roger McKenzie’s scripts with art partner Klaus Janson, then taking over as both writer and artist. Miller grinds the grit of New York City’s streets into every page, blending super heroics with the dark tone of noir crime thrillers. DD squares off against Doctor Octopus, the Hulk, Gladiator and the psychotic side of Bullseye before Miller introduces a new icon: the assassin Elektra! And her tempestuous relationship with Matt Murdock will form the unforgettable backdrop to DD’s war against the Kingpin! Collecting DAREDEVIL (1964) #159-172 and material from BIZARRE ADVENTURES #25.
Trim size: 7 x 10
MARVEL MASTERWORKS: DAREDEVIL VOL. 15 HC — VARIANT EDITION VOL. 307 (DM ONLY)
Nab432
That Spider Gwen DM cover looks pretty nice. Definitely going to go with that one as the standard cover isn’t doing much for me.
FANTASTIC FOUR: ANTITHESIS TREASURY EDITION TPB
Written by MARK WAID with DENNIS O’NEIL
Penciled by NEAL ADAMS with MIKE WIERINGO
Cover by NEAL ADAMS
Legendary artist Neal Adams illustrates his first ever full-length Fantastic Four story — and FF legend Mark Waid is back to join him! An unstoppable meteor of unknown origin has just erupted from hyperspace — and unless the Fantastic Four can keep it from hitting Manhattan, millions will die! But worse is yet to come. Galactus has vanished — and only he has the power to defeat his Negative Zone equivalent, the mysterious Antithesis! The Silver Surfer leads Reed, Sue, Ben and Johnny on a mad race across the galaxy in search of the World-Eater — but if they fail, desperate times may call for desperate measures. Cosmic rays gave them their powers — but what will the Power Cosmic do to the FF?! Plus: Two classic tales by Waid and Adams! Collecting FANTASTIC FOUR: ANTITHESIS #1-4, X-MEN (1963) #65 and FANTASTIC FOUR (1998) #60.
Trim size: 8-1/2 x 13
X-MEN EPIC COLLECTION: THE SENTINELS LIVE TPB (NEW PRINTING)
Volume #3 in the X-Men Epic Collections
Written by GARY FRIEDRICH, ARNOLD DRAKE, ROY THOMAS, LINDA FITE, DENNIS O’NEIL & JERRY SIEGEL
Penciled by DON HECK, WERNER ROTH, GEORGE TUSKA, JIM STERANKO, BARRY WINDSOR-SMITH, NEAL ADAMS, MARIE SEVERIN & SAL BUSCEMA
Cover by JIM STERANKO
Professor X is dead! The X-Men have gone their separate ways! In the late 1960s, searching for a way to reinvigorate its poorest-selling super heroes, Marvel was trying anything and everything. With the title on the verge of cancellation, writer Roy Thomas and artist Neal Adams suddenly clicked — and the rest is history! Their epic evolution of the X-Men defines the team to this day. Adams’ lavish and dynamic visuals and Thomas’ challenging and contemporary stories combined in a book that throbbed with the pulse of the times. Their iconic stories collected here introduce Cyclops’ brother Havok, the vampiric villain Sauron, the Savage Land Mutates and X-Man-to-be Sunfire! Not to mention the Living Pharaoh, a classic team-up with Ka-Zar…and don’t forget the return of Magneto! Collecting X-MEN (1963) #46-66, KA-ZAR (1970) #2-3 and MARVEL TALES (1964) #30.
512 PGS./All Ages …$39.99
X-MEN EPIC COLLECTION: THE FATE OF THE PHOENIX TPB
Written by CHRIS CLAREMONT & JOHN BYRNE with JO DUFFY & SCOTT EDELMAN
Penciled by JOHN BYRNE with JOHN ROMITA JR., KEN LANDGRAF & BRENT ANDERSON
Cover by JOHN BYRNE
Chris Claremont and John Byrne’s collaboration ranks among the greatest comics has ever known. But of their many iconic X-MEN stories, none was more epic or influential than the “Dark Phoenix Saga”! The X-Men have fought many battles, set out on galaxy-spanning adventures and grappled with enemies of limitless might, but nothing could prepare them for their most shocking fight: One of their own teammates, Jean Grey, has gained power beyond all comprehension, corrupting her into the Dark Phoenix! Now the X-Men must fight the woman they cherish, or her unquenchable fire will consume the universe itself! Also featuring Wolverine vs. Wendigo, the dystopian “Days of Future Past” and more! Collecting X-MEN (1963) #129-141, UNCANNY X-MEN (1981) #142-143, X-MEN ANNUAL (1970) #4, MARVEL TREASURY EDITION #26-27, PHOENIX: THE UNTOLD STORY and material from MARVEL TEAM-UP (1972) #100.
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AFRICA AMERICA ASIA EUROPE OCEANIA
ALL MUSEUMS EXHIBITIONS VISITORS CENTERS IMMERSIVE INSTALLATIONS SHOWS CORPORATE EVENTS CULTURAL EVENTS TRADE FAIRS AND CONGRESSES HOTELS, SPAS AND RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL CENTRES AND OFFICES RESTAURANTS THEME PARKS EXPO PAVILIONS
2020 / United Arab Emirates
UAE PAVILION – EXPO 2020 DUBAI
2020 / Malaga, Spain
SANTALUCÍA SALES CONVENTION 2020
2019-2020 / Madrid, Spain
VIDEOGAMES. THE TWO SIDES OF THE SCREEN
2019 / Madrid, Spain
LAUNCH OF SOLÁN DE CABRAS GAS
2019 / Lisbon, Portugal
ASIA PACIFIC BMW DEALER CONVENTION
33rd EDITION OF THE BMW PAINTING AWARD
GUIDED TOUR OF THE LIRIA PALACE
2019 / Seville, Spain
II GLOBAL FORUM OF LOCAL GOVERNMENTS
ACCIONA’S ANNUAL SHAREHOLDER MEETING 2019
2019 / A Coruña, Spain
LUZ E SON DE HÉRCULES
2019 / Santiago de Compostela, Spain
APOSTLE FIREWORKS 2019
2019 / City of Panama, Panama
500 YEARS OF PANAMA CITY
2019 / Toledo, Spain
LEGENDARY TOLEDO
THE STAR OF DREAMS
BICENTENARY OF THE MUSEO DEL PRADO
ACCIONA STAND – SIMA
ACCIONA STAND – COP25
COMMON SPACES PROMOTION IN ADELFAS
COMMON SPACES PROMOTION IN ROZAS DEL PUERTO REAL
COWORKING AND RESTORATION SPACES
2019 / Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
QASR AL WATAN. THE PRESIDENTIAL PALACE
2019 / Palma de Mallorca, Spain
2019 / Doha, Qatar
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF QATAR – MULTIMEDIA PRODUCTIONS
2019 / Madrid and Barcelona, Spain
ANNUAL BESTINVER INVESTORS CONFERENCE
ACCIONA STAND – INTERNATIONAL WATER SUMMIT
A-LAB WORK CENTRE
2020 / Dubai, United Arab Emirates
SUSTAINABILITY PAVILION – EXPO 2020 DUBAI
2019 / Cairo, Egypt
GRAND EGYPTIAN MUSEUM
THE FOUNDER’S MEMORIAL
LUZ TOLEDO 2018
TOLEDO HAS A STAR 2018
2018 / Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
PARTNERSHIP FOR FINANCIAL INCLUSION 2018
2018 / Huesca, Spain
CENTENARY OF THE SEIRA HYDROELECTRIC POWER PLANT
2018 / Manama, Bahrain
QAL’AT AL-BAHRAIN AUDIOVISUAL EXPERIENCE
2017 / Galicia, Spain & Mindelo, Cape Verde
XUNTA DE GALICIA STANDS
(ESP) STAND CENTENARIO TRASMEDITERRANEA
ABU DHABI SUSTAINABILITY WEEK (ADSW)
2017 / Fatima, Portugal
FÁTIMA-TEMPO DE LUZ
PRESENTATION OF LAFFAN REFINERY 2
TOLEDO TIENE ESTRELLA. LA JUGUETERÍA MÁGICA
2017 / Astana, Kazakhstan
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES PAVILION, EXPO ASTANA 2017
KAZAKHSTAN PAVILION, EXPO ASTANA 2017
SPAIN PAVILION, EXPO ASTANA 2017
2017 / Barcelona, Spain
100 YEARS OF TRASMEDITERRANEA (1917-2017)
2017 / Brussels, Belgium
HOUSE OF EUROPEAN HISTORY
HANDER CEREMONY OF THE FIRST AIRBUS A400M TO THE SPANISH AIR FORCE
2016 / Béziers, France
BÉZIERS, TOUTE UNE HISTOIRE
2016 / Istanbul, Turkey
SIMURG. THE MUSICAL
STAND TRASMEDITERRANEA
2016 / Kuwait City, Kuwait
AL-SHAHEED PARK MUSEUMS
2016 / Muscat, Oman
THE NATIONAL MUSEUM – SULTANATE OF OMAN
2016 / Abeokuta, Nigeria
OLUSEGUN OBASANJO PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY
HEARTBEATS OF LIGHT (LATIDOS DE LUZ)
KATARA PLAZA SHOW
MARCA ESPAÑA SHOW
MSHEIREB MUSEUMS
2015 / Yekaterinburg, Russia
BORIS YELTSIN PRESIDENTIAL CENTER
THE HUNT: PRINCELY PURSUITS IN ISLAMIC LANDS
2015 / Cordoba, Spain
THE MAGIC CITY
ADAMA EVENT “SIMPLY. GROW. TOGETHER”
2014 / Various locations
STANDS ACCIONA ENERGÍA AND ACCIONA WINDPOWER
2014 / Geneva, Switzerland
UEFA EURO 2020 ANNOUNCEMENT CEREMONY
VUELTA CICLISTA A ESPAÑA SHOW
2014 / Wuxi, China
WU KINGDOM HELV RELIC MUSEUM
2014 / Fuengirola, Spain
FUENGIROLA IN MEDIEVAL TIMES AND TODAY
2013 / San Sebastián, Spain
200 YEARS BUILDING SAN SEBASTIAN
2013 / London, United Kingdom
UEFA SHOW
2013 / Melbourne, Australia
THE LAST DAY AT GIVERNY
INDIGENOUS VS ALIENS
HAJJ, THE JOURNEY THROUGH ART
SAINTS OF ZURBARAN: DEVOTION AND PERSUASION
2012 / Cadiz, Spain
XXII IBERO-AMERICAN SUMMIT
2012 / Athens, Greece
COLLECTION OF CYPRIOT ANTIQUITIES
MUSIC DAY
2010 & 2012 / Spain
VODAFONE MOVE
2012 / Yeosu, Korea
RUSSIA PAVILION, EXPO YEOSU 2012
2012 / Moscow, Russia
JEWISH MUSEUM AND TOLERANCE CENTER
COLLECTION OF THE ARTS OF THE BOOK AND CALIGRAPHY
2012 / Valencia, Spain
OBSERVATORI DEL CANVI CLIMÁTIC
SEGUROS SANTALUCÍA
THE ART OF TRAVEL: BARTHOLOMAÜS SCHACHMAN (1559-1614)
2011 / Illescas, Spain
AIRBUS EXCELLENCE AWARDS
BARCELONA ZOO
2011 / Saragossa, Spain
KICK OFF UNE VODAFONE
ACROSS. THE CYCLADES AND WESTERN ANATOLIA DURING THE 3RD MILLENIUM BC
2011 / Toledo, España
MUSEUM OF EL GRECO
MUDIZ. MUSEUM OF THE DIOCESAN OF SARAGOSSA
MUSEUM OF NAVIGATION
CROCKERY AND TILES OF TRIANA. CARRANZA COLLECTION
THE NATIONAL DAY OF SPAIN
“FLAMENCO, FLAMENCO” BY CARLOS SAURA
THE SOUL OF CORDOBA
2010 / Shanghai, China
SAUDI ARABIA PAVILION
MUSEUM OF THE ARMED FORCES
TREASURES OF AGA KHAN MUSEUM
2009 / Granada, Spain
MUSEUM OF CAJAGRANADA MEMORIES OF ANDALUSIA
2009 / Paris, France
DE BYZANCE À ISTANBUL, UN PORT POUR DEUX CONTINENTS
ENDESA CORPORATE PARTY
PAVILION OF AL-ANDALUS AND SCIENCE
ISLAZUL
2008 / Huelva, Spain
PLAYACARTAYA SPA HOTEL
RUSSIAN PAVILION, EXPO ZARAGOZA 2008
OMAN PAVILION, EXPO ZARAGOZA 2008
ARAGÓN PAVILION, EXPO ZARAGOZA 2008
2008 / Valladolid, Spain
BODEGAS VIÑA MAYOR
2008 / Cartagena, Spain
ARQUA. NATIONAL MUSEUM OF UNDERWATER ARCHAEOLOGY
ACCIONA PAVILION, EXPO ZARAGOZA 2008
2007 / Istanbul, Turquey
SACRED TRUST
SHOPPING AREA PALMA DE MALLORCA AIRPORT
MONASTERY OF SAN JUAN DE LA PEÑA
2007 / Vitoria-Gazteiz, Spain
CHANCELLOR AYALA
2006 / Various locations, Spain
HAMMAM SANCTI PETRI
MUSEUM OF THE AUTONOMOUS REGION OF ANDALUSIA
2006 / Almeria, Spain
MUSEUM OF ALMERIA
BEER STATION
PARQUE BOTÁNICO LAS LOMAS DE GUADALMINA APARTAMENTS
2005 / Aichi, Japan
TURKEY PAVILION, EXPO AICHI 2005
“THE GIANT OF THE 7 SEAS” AND “DREAMS OF SUMMER NIGHTS”
MADRID-XANADU
MN4
2003 / Tarragona, Spain
HOTEL CARIBE RESORT
ANDALUSIA PAVILION
2002 / Bottrop, Germany
WARNER BROS MOVIE PARK
CANTINA MARIACHI
2002 / Alicante, Spain
MARQ. MUSEUM OF ARCHAEOLOGY OF ALICANTE
2002 / Yverdon-les-Bains, Switzerland
IMAGO SHOW, EXPO SUIZA 2002
2001 / Teruel, Spain
T- REX EXPERIENCE
2000 / Benidorm, Spain
1999 / Abu Simbel Temples, Egypt
SOUND & LIGHT SHOW
1998 / Sao Paulo, Brasil
GREAT ADVENTURE HOPI HARI
MEXICO, THE ONU, TURKEY AND TUNUSIA PAVILIONS, EXPO LISBON 1998
AFRICA, CARIBBEAN COUNTRIES, EGYPT, MADRID, RUSSIA AND THE PLAZA OF AMERICA PAVILIONS, EXPO SEVILLE 1992
SICAB. INTERNATION HORSE SHOW P.R.E.
ACCIONA Cultural Engineering
info.ce@acciona.com
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Anabel Segura 11
Albatros Building C, 4th floor
Madrid. Spain
Av. Averroes, 8
Acropólis Building, 3rd floor
41020 Seville. Spain
Al Bateen Tower c6 Bainunah
Street 34, 1st and 2nd floor
ADIB Building
Abu Dhabi. United Arab Emirates
Office #905 API Trio Commercial Tower
Al Barsha 1
Dubai. United Arab Emirates
GSSG Building
Doha. Qatar
Juan Salvador Agraz 61
Euro+Ten Building
Col. Las Tinajas
05370 Cuajimalpa
Mexico City. Mexico
© Copyright 2020 · ACCIONA Cultural Engineering
DAVID GALVÁN
David Galván has been the Finance Manager of ACCIONA Producciones y Diseño since 2014.
He has more than 20 years of experience in the management of corporate resources, specializing in the areas of finance, project finance control, accounting, administration, treasury and auditing, as well as other areas such as personnel, purchasing and quality and environment. Over the course of his long career at APD, which he joined in 1998, David has successfully led the financial management of projects to ensure their financial viability. He has also been responsible for implementing the Enterprise Resource Planning Systems and the Quality and Environmental Management Systems, in accordance with ISO 9001 and 14001 standards, respectively.
He has a degree in Business from the University of Seville, an MBA from the Business School Foundation of Andalusia in Seville and a master’s degree in Quality and Environment from Servicios Normativos Formación in Seville.
MARÍA PADILLA
INTERIOR DESIGN MANAGER
MPG MIRICS is Responsible for the Interior Design Division at ACCIONA Producciones y Diseño since October 2019. She has more than 20 years of experience in the architecture and interior design sector. She manages teams for the execution of projects for offices, hotels, residence buildings, religious, university centres, etc. Because of her unitary vision of the entire creative process and her technical ability, she is able to coordinate all the phases of the project from its technical and economic viability, the idea, the creation of spaces and interior design to the final execution on site.
Committed to sustainability and aware of the impact that the carbon footprint of buildings has on the environment, she faces every project from a sustainable perspective, applying criteria for improving energy efficiency.
She has a degree in Architecture at the Polytechnic University of Madrid. Member of the Royal Institution Chartered Surveyors since 2010 and for over 4 years, she has been a member of the Passivhaus Spain Building Platform.
CARLOS DOMÍNGUEZ
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT - MUSEUMS
Carlos Domínguez is the Director of Business Development for the Museums and Exhibitions Department of ACCIONA Producciones y Diseño.
With over 25 years of professional experience, Carlos has held positions in both technical and managerial areas, developing and leading multidisciplinary and multicultural teams and successfully contributing to the implementation of projects in which he has participated in countries in Africa Asia, Latin America and the Middle East.
Since joining APD, Carlos’ main role has been the coordination and direction of the teams involved in the identification of opportunities, preparation of bids and launching of all international museum and exhibition projects awarded to the company.
He has a degree in Industrial Engineering from the National Distance Education University (UNED), a master’s degree in Machine Mechanics and graduate studies in Senior Management from IE Business School.
PABLO CHAMORRO
Pablo Chamorro has been the Bid Manager of ACCIONA Producciones y Diseño since January 2018.
Throughout his career, he has held positions in the preparation of bids all over the world for large international companies in the sectors of museums, infrastructure, water and energy.
Since joining the company, APD has been awarded projects in countries such as Mexico, Egypt, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Spain, among others, making 2018 a record year in contracting for the company.
Pablo has a degree in Civil Engineering from the University Córdoba.
Iván López has been the Purchasing Manager of ACCIONA Producciones y Diseño since December 2017.
He has more than 16 years of experience in contracting international and local supplies, optimizing resources, comprehensive control of financial projects and team coordination.
Since joining ACCIONA in 2014 as the Purchasing Manager for the Construction Department, he has successfully and simultaneously led more than 15 projects and coordinated subcontractors participating in the implementation of emblematic works in several countries in the Middle East, Asia, Africa and Europe.
He has a degree in Business Administration from CEU San Pablo University in Madrid and an MBA from ESIC.
Victoria Martín has been the Director of Marketing and Communications of ACCIONA Producciones y Diseño since January 2014.
She has more than 17 years of experience in strategic communication, digital and offline marketing, branding, communication and media relations. Throughout her career, she has carried out functions related to event management and organizing, content development and design of differentiating communication activities, marketing and sponsorship for large private companies and public institutions.
She is responsible for promoting and implementing the company's sustainability strategy, thus positioning APD as a leader in its sector.
She has a degree in Advertising and Public Relations from the University of Seville and a graduate degree in Corporate and Institutional Communications from Dircom.
PROJECT FINANCE DIRECTOR
José Aguilar has been the Director of Project Finance Control of ACCIONA Producciones y Diseño since 2018.
He has more than 12 years of experience in the field of engineering and construction. Since joining APD in 2015, José has been the Director of Planning and Costs for the Technical Implementation Department, carrying out functions related to financial control and the planning of cultural engineering projects, mainly involving museum, exhibitions and international events in countries such as Kazakhstan, Oman, Nigeria, Qatar, United Arab Emirates and Kuwait.
He has a degree in Road, Canal and Port Engineering from the University of Granada, an MBA from Camilo José Cela University in Madrid and a degree in Economy from the National Distance Education University (UNED).
REBECA FERREIRA
HEAD OF LEGAL AFFAIRS
Rebeca Ferreira is the Head of Legal Affairs of ACCIONA Producciones y Diseño.
She has been practising law for more than 15 years and boasts ample experience as the in-house legal and general strategy counsel for corporations.
Rebeca is specialized in commercial law (international contracting, foreign investment, corporate and cross-border transactions) and has experience in Latin America, Europe, the Middle East and Africa. She has also worked as the legal and strategic advisor on international projects for Spanish companies in the fields of consulting, engineering and industry.
She earned a Law degree from the University of Fortaleza in Brazil, which was approved by the University of Alcalá in Spain and is a registered member of the Madrid Bar Association. She earned a master’s degree in Business Law from Francisco de Vitoria University in Madrid and a doctorate in Commercial Law from Autonomous University of Madrid.
MARTA MORENO
Marta Moreno has been the Human Resources Director of ACCIONA Producciones y Diseño since February 2019.
Marta has 18 years of professional experience in different management roles in the Human Resources Department of Atos Iberia, a world leader in digital transformation.
She earned a degree in Psychology from the Complutense University of Madrid and an executive master’s degree in Labour Relations from Centro de Estudios de Garrigues.
JUAN ANTONIO ARANDA
DIRECTOR OF CORPORATE EVENTS
Juan Antonio Aranda is the Director of Corporate Events of ACCIONA Producciones y Diseño.
He has more than 25 years of professional experience in the technical management of world-renowned institutional events. Since joining the company in 2000, Juan has undertaken projects in countries such as Mexico, Chile, Russia, Denmark, Germany, France, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Portugal and Qatar, among others.
In the cultural sphere, Juan Antonio has been at the helm of internationally renowned public events, such as the show Heartbeats of Light (Seville), which received the Eventoplus Grand Jury Prize and the silver medal for the Best European Public Event 2016, or the Fires of the Apostle (Santiago de Compostela), which received the gold medal for the Best European Cultural Event 2012.
Before joining APD, Juan was responsible for the technical direction of different culture and event spaces, such as El Palenque at Expo ‘92, the Auditorium and Conference Centre of the Region of Murcia, and the Isla Mágica Theme Park in Seville.
MANUEL FERNÁNDEZ
MUSEUMS DIRECTOR - OTHER REGIONS
Manuel Fernández is the Museums and Exhibitions Director for Other Regions of ACCIONA Producciones y Diseño.
He has over 27 years of experience in managing and implementing large-scale museum, exhibition and construction projects at an international level. Since joining the company, Manuel has played an essential role in positioning APD as a reference in the sector, undertaking successful and emblematic projects that have received international awards in countries such as Oman, Kuwait, Nigeria, China and Kazakhstan, among others.
Since 1992, Manuel has also gained valuable experience in the technical development and implementation of universal and international exhibitions at pavilions, receiving recognition from renowned entities such as the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE), Red Dot Design Award, iF Product Design Award and New York Festivals.
He has a degree in Technical Architecture for Construction Works from the University of Seville.
JUAN CARLOS VASCO
MUSEUMS DIRECTOR - MIDDLE EAST
Juan Carlos Vasco is the Branch Manager of ACCIONA Producciones y Diseño in Dubai and the Museums and Exhibitions Director for the Middle East.
He has 18 years worth of solid experience in the design, development and management of international projects in the sectors of museums, infrastructure and civil works. He has worked in Kuwait, Qatar, United Arab Emirates and North Africa, among other locations.
He has a degree in Architecture from Higher Technical School of Architecture in Seville and specialized in Integrated Management of Property and Services at the Technical University of Madrid and the Madrid College of Architects.
PATRICIO PAN DE SORALUCE
DIRECTOR OF INSTITUTIONAL RELATIONS
Patricio Pan de Soraluce Muguiro joined ACCIONA in October 2014. He is currently the Director of Institutional Relations of ACCIONA Producciones y Diseño.
Over the course of his long professional history, he has worked at first-class companies such as Johnson & Johnson, R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company and Dorna Sports, among others.
He was a founding partner of the sports marketing company W.E.P., where he was responsible for managing and exercising the rights of the International Federation for Equestrian Sports. He also founded and managed a Spanish hospitality chain for twelve years.
Patricio has a Law degree from the Complutense University of Madrid and an MBA in English from IESE Business School in Barcelona.
JOSÉ MARÍA LÓPEZ-GALIACHO
José María López-Galiacho González
has been the Director of ACCIONA Producciones y Diseño since April 2016. Since joining the company, he has positioned APD as a world leader in its sectors of activity.
In addition to rapid improvement across the main financial performance indicators, APD has experienced significant geographic growth, with the opening of key markets such as the Gulf, Latin America and Africa. It currently has offices located in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Mexico, Egypt and Kenya.
José María has nearly 20 years of professional experience, over the course of which he has accumulated a long history of success in seeking out and implementing projects in the Gulf, Africa and Latin America – the latter two being continents where he developed a large part of his career.
He has a Law degree with a specialization in Corporate Law, from CEU San Pablo University, a degree in Business Studies from University College Dublin (UCD), a doctorate in Economics from the National Distance Education University (UNED) and an MBA from Nottingham University Business School.
Information on data protection
In compliance with Regulation (EU) 2016/679 on Data Protection and with other Data Protection regulations in force, you are hereby informed that your personal data shall be processed by ACCIONA Producciones y Diseño, S.A. (hereinafter “ACCIONA Producciones y Diseño”), whose identification data are as follows: Tax ID No. (NIF): A41404351, Address: Avenida de Europa, 18, Parque Empresarial de la Moraleja, 28108 in Alcobendas, Madrid, Tel. No.: +34 910470624, email: protecciondedatos@acciona.com, in order to manage your résumé and candidacy within the ACCIONA Producciones y Diseño job offer and selection processes.
The consent given by the data subject when submitting their résumé to participate in the selection process by indicating that they have read and accept the Privacy Policy comprises the legal grounds for processing the data. The data provided are necessary to be able to participate in the selection process and if you fail to provide them you cannot participate in said process.
The data provided in the job application shall be stored and processed during a maximum of twenty-four months. Where appropriate, should you eventually work at our company, your résumé shall be stored and included in your professional record. In the event your résumé is not suited for the requested job offer, we shall store your information for the maximum storage period in order to consider your candidacy for other job offers that may match your profile within the Acciona Group. (You can consult a list of Group companies at www.acciona.com/shareholders-investors/financial-information/annual-accounts/), dentro del plazo máximo de conservación.
The data provided shall be shared with companies in the Acciona Group with the sole purpose of covering employment needs within the Group. ACCIONA Producciones y Diseño hereby informs you that some of said companies are located outside the European Union, including countries that apply a legal level of data protection that is not comparable to the level of data protection applied within the EEA. This means that some data transfers may be international data transfers, and same can be consulted at the link given above. Sending your résumé may entail an international data transfer. By submitting your résumé you expressly consent to such transfer for the aforementioned purposes.
In selection processes involving head-hunter service companies or job offer and selection process management service companies, your personal data may be shared between both companies under the service agreement signed in order to manage your potential recruitment. Such sharing is necessary for your candidacy to be included in the selection process.
ACCIONA Producciones y Diseño uses the platform Oracle Taleo Recruiting Cloud to manage résumé data. The use of this tool entails the international transfer of data to the company Oracle. This transfer is made under the scope of the EU-US Privacy Shield agreement. - Further information is available at the following link: https://www.privacyshield.gov/participant?id=a2zt00000000181AAA&status=Active#other-covered-entities. Other data transfers are not anticipated, except where required by law.
The data subject can exercise their rights of portability and to access, correct, eliminate, restrict and oppose the processing of their data before ACCIONA Producciones y Diseño, S.A. by writing the Department of Data Protection located at Anabel Segura, 11 C.N. Albatros. Building C. 4th floor, 28108, in Alcobendas, Madrid or by sending an email to the following address: protecciondedatos@acciona.com, In either case, the data subject must enclose or attach a copy of their National ID (DNI) or other ID. Furthermore, at any time the data subject may withdraw the granted consent by contacting the aforementioned address and file a claim before the Supervisory Authority (the Spanish Data Protection Agency www.aepd.es).
For more information you can consult the Privacy Policy of the Web Site at http://web-apd.es/politica-de-privacidad/."
In compliance with Regulation (EU) 2016/679 on Data Protection and with other Data Protection regulations in force, you are hereby informed that your personal data shall be processed by ACCIONA Producciones y Diseño, S.A. (hereinafter “ACCIONA Producciones y Diseño”), whose identification data are as follows: Tax ID No. (NIF): A-41404351, Address: Avenida de Europa, 18, Parque Empresarial de la Moraleja, 28108 in Alcobendas, Madrid, Tel. No.: +34 91 047 06 24, email: protecciondedatos@acciona.com. Your data shall be processed in order to send you information, through the subscription to our Newsletter through electronic means, regarding our services, products, activities and news pertinent to your activity sectors, which are specified on the Web Site, as well as those of other companies that comprise the Acciona Group, which can be consulted on the Web Site at www.acciona.com/shareholders-investors/financial-information/annual-accounts/.
The consent given by the data subject by indicating that they have read and accept this data protection information comprises the legal grounds for processing the data. If the party fails to provide the required data the subscription request cannot be satisfied. The data shall be stored until the elimination thereof is requested.
ACCIONA Producciones y Diseño uses the platform MailChimp to send commercial communications and the newsletter. Sending these communications by using this tool entails the international transfer of data to the American company The Rocket Science Group LLC. This transfer is made under the scope of the EU-US Privacy Shield agreement. - Further information is available at the following link: www.privacyshield.gov/participant?id=a2zt0000000TO6hAAG&status=Active
Other data transfers are not anticipated, except where required by law.
The data subject can exercise their rights of portability and to access, correct, eliminate, restrict and oppose the processing of their data before Acciona Producciones y Diseño, S.A. by writing the Department of Data Protection located at Anabel SEGURA, 11, C.N. Albatros, Edificio C 4º pl., 28108, in Alcobendas, Madrid or by sending an email to the following address: protecciondedatos@acciona.com. In either case, the data subject must enclose or attach a copy of their National ID (DNI) or other ID. Furthermore, at any time the data subject may withdraw the granted consent by contacting the aforementioned address and file a claim before the Supervisory Authority (the Spanish Data Protection Agency www.aepd.es).
You can find more information in our Privacy Policy on our website.
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Giro Rosa stage 4: sprinters’ day shakes up GC
by Jeanine Laudy
In its 28th edition, the Giro Rosa is once again a celebration of women’s cycling. The only remaining Grand Tour on the women’s calendar is a target for many teams and riders.
The team time trial in stage one and the tough climb in stage two have already caused the first time differences in the GC. It was a familiar sight when Anna van der Breggen (Boels-Dolmans) put on the pink jersey after stage two, the 2015 winner eager to repeat that win this Sunday in Torre del Greco.
A pancake flat stage four looked like it was going to be another bunch sprint, but it was eventually a sprint by a reduced bunch, won by Jolien D’Hoore (Wiggle-High5), who took her first Giro Rosa victory. Anna van der Breggen (Boels-Dolmans) also made the split and keeps the pink leader’s jersey.
Missed the earlier stages of the Giro Rosa? Read our Giro Rosa round-ups of:
Giro Rosa Round-up: stage four
Stage four can only be described by two words: hot and flat. Hours before the stage start, temperatures already reached 30 degrees Celsius. And without any wind to offer a cooling breeze, it was going to be a hot day in the office.
Two riders didn’t take to the start in Occhiobello this morning. Team Sunweb’s Molly Weaver, who only returned to the Women’s WorldTour in the Giro Rosa after recovering from serious injuries she sustained at a training ride crash in February, punctured in yesterday’s stage at a bad time. It meant the end of her Giro Rosa.
Not how I wanted my Giro to end after working so hard to get here. Puncture once the team car passes+no neutral service=game over! #gutted
— Molly Weaver (@mollyweaver94) 2 juli 2017
Tiffany Cromwell (Canyon-SRAM) also didn’t line up in the peloton, withdrawing to focus on the Thüringen Rundfahrt (or Lotto Thüringen Ladies Tour as it is rebranded in 2017), as had always been the team’s plan. A 165-rider peloton left Occhiobello at 12.15pm local time for 118 kilometres.
Teammates Anouska Koster and Lauren Kitchen (WM3 Pro Cycling) alongside Amanda Spratt (Orica-Scott) in the peloton.
The heat made for an uneventful first half of the stage. A couple of breakaways were attempted, most notably an attack by Trixi Worrack (Canyon-SRAM), but they all led to being very short-lived attacks.
Boels-Dolmans targeted the intermediate sprint points again today, doing everything to keep Anna van der Breggen (Boels-Dolmans) in the pink leader’s jersey. They wanted no bonus seconds to go to Annemiek van Vleuten (Orica-Scott) in the intermediate sprints, as Van der Breggen’s closest rival in the GC, only 18 seconds down.
The many jerseys of Boels-Dolmans in stage four of the 2017 Giro Rosa.
Megan Guarnier (Boels-Dolmans) won the first intermediate sprint, ahead of Dani King (Cylance Pro Cycling) and Stephanie Pohl (Cervélo-Bigla). She wore the green jersey for Van Vleuten, as the fifth rider in the QOM classification – numbers one to four all wearing higher-ranked jerseys.
Halfway through the stage, the wind picked up a bit and an exciting finale ensued. Three riders tried to sneak away from the peloton, the tension palpable, but the nervous peloton caught them not much later.
The world road champion Amalie Dideriksen (Boels-Dolmans) in front of her compatriot Julie Leth (Wiggle-High5).
The wind caused splits in the peloton, breaking it up in at least three larger groups. Kilometres before the second intermediate sprint, there was a lead group, followed by a 10-rider chase group and behind that, the first bunch. Without any names, it was a guessing game whether the favourites had made the split.
The results of the second intermediate sprint showed that at least two Boels-Dolmans riders had made the split, Chantal Blaak and Guarnier taking second and third behind Lucinda Brand (Team Sunweb). The reduced bunch had a 35-second advantage as they went into the last 20 kilometres of the stage. Would they be able to prevent a bunch sprint?
The answer: yes. The advantage grew to 1’09” at 10 kilometres to go. Word came out that Van Vleuten had missed the front group, meaning a reshuffle of the GC after the stage, with Guarnier moving into the podium places.
The reduced bunch returned to Occhiobello, preparing for a sprint. Although it initially looked like Chloe Hosking (Alé Cipollini) had won the sprint, delivering her Italian team her first Women’s WorldTour victory, it was eventually Jolien D’Hoore (Wiggle-High5) who was determined as the winner after inspecting the photo finish.
Result of Stage 4 of the #GiroRosa Occhiobello – Occhiobello
Hosking
D’hoore#UCIWWT #GiroRosa pic.twitter.com/3eP1ReIfXi
— UCI_WWT (@UCI_WWT) July 3, 2017
“Yeah, it was pretty close, but a win is a win,” D’Hoore said. “Somewhere around halfway WM3 put the hammer down, together with Boels-Dolmans, and suddenly we heard that Annemiek van Vleuten was in the second group. So we started to work for Elisa, for the GC, and then we came really fast to the final 5km for the sprint.”
“In the end we had two roundabouts in the last 800 metres, so it was pretty dangerous and hectic,” she said. “But I managed to be up there, thanks to Giorgia [Bronzini], she led me out into the sprint, and yeah, it was a close call.”
Coryn Rivera (Team Sunweb) managed third behind D’Hoore and Hosking.
“As a team we learned from yesterday’s stage and applied it to today and we finished it off with a podium,” she said. “We were all together for most of the stage, especially when the bunch split as well as inside the final 5 kilometres.”
“Lucinda was able to take me around the final two roundabouts and I could take the opportunity to go for the podium,” Rivera said. “It was great team work and we can also take some more points to learn from which is great. As a team we continue hunting for some more great results here.”
GC reshuffle
Van Vleuten missed the front group, but Van der Breggen did not. She’ll keep her pink leader’s jersey and will line up in the pink skinsuit for the individual time trial tomorrow. She now has a 25 second lead on Elisa Longo Borghini (Wiggle-High5) in second place and teammate Guarnier in third place, 1’56” down. Van Vleuten dropped to fourth place, with a gap of 2’17” to Van der Breggen.
“Annemiek was a little caught out of position at one moment and suddenly the race split,” Orica-Scott DS Gene Bates reflected on what happened during the stage. “I think the front group realised Annemiek wasn’t there and the time gap went from five seconds to thirty seconds instantly.”
“All the girls waited for Annemiek, except Spratt who was in the front,” he said. “There was a lot of the sprinter team’s up there so probably 15 or 20 riders working hard to stay away, and just our six riders behind chasing. Once the gap opened up it was always going to be a tough ask for us to bring it back.”
“It was simply a moment of loss of concentration, a little slip up and that can cost a lot in these kinds of stages,” he concluded. “It is obviously disappointing for us but we just have to take positives from the day, we have to regroup quickly and just put our best foot forward now. The race is certainly not over, we won’t give up with out a big fight.”
Kasia Niewiadoma (WM3 Pro Cycling) remains sixth in the GC after stage four, but was able to take some time on Van Vleuten as she also found herself in the first group. She is 2’37” back from Van der Breggen, but only twenty seconds down on Van Vleuten now.
“We lost time in the beginning of this Giro and know this year’s Giro Rosa is less difficult than previous editions,” WM3 DS Jeroen Blijlevens said. “Today was a flat stage too. If you can’t use the mountains to make a difference, you have to try something else. Today we had a chance to use the wind.”
[rrsummary id= 173496 places=10]
Stage five information
Stage five: Tuesday July 4
Sant’Elpidio a Mare – Sant’Elpidio a Mare
12.7 kilometres
Stage five consists of an indvididual time trial. It’s an undulating course, with the finish some 140 metres higher than the start. In 2015, Anna van der Breggen (Boels-Dolmans) took the leader’s jersey in the penultimate Giro Rosa stage by winning the individual time trial. Will she increase her lead in the GC even further tomorrow?
Jersey wearers going into stage five
Pink leader’s jersey: Anna van der Breggen (Boels-Dolmans)
Purple points jersey: to be announced
Green Queen of the Mountain jersey: Annemiek van Vleuten (Orica-Scott)
White young rider jersey: Floortje Mackaij (Team Sunweb)
Blue best Italian rider jersey: Elisa Longo Borghini (Wiggle-High5)
Check back tomorrow for the Giro Rosa Round-up of stage five!
#2017 Giro Rosa
#2017 UCI Women's WorldTour
#Anna van der Breggen
#Boels-Dolmans
#jolien d'hoore
#race report
#Wiggle High5
A 'stay sane' packing guide for the Giro Rosa
The 2017 Giro Rosa in numbers, names & colours; this is your guide to women's biggest cycling tour
Anna van der Breggen's unassuming rise to the top
Giro Rosa stage 1: opening team time trial easy prey for Boels-Dolmans
Giro Rosa stage 2: Annemiek van Vleuten wins the stage as Anna van der Breggen takes pink
Giro Rosa stage 3: Hannah Barnes fastest in bunch sprint finish
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Gov. Zulum’s Convoy Attack, Borno National Assembly Members Visits Maiduguri to Condole Him
Borno National Assembly members were in Maiduguri on Monday on a condolence and solidarity visit to commiserate and sympathized with Governor Babagana Zulum over the recent Boko Haram attack on his convoy near Baga where 8 policemen and 3 members of Civilian Joint Taskforce CJTF were killed.
While speaking, at the Government House, Maiduguri on Monday the leader of the delegation who is also a Former Borno state Governor, and Senator representing Borno central, Senator Kashim Shettima said ” we are in Maiduguri to show our solidarity and commiserate with the governor, government and people of the state.”
Senator Shettima said ” I urge the people of Borno state to continue to be resilience and endour these, by the grace of God endouring peace will sure come. I believed the people of Borno have the resilience and the courage to see that enduring peace is enthroned in our father land.”
“Much importantly we urged the people to give the maximum support and cooperation to government and the military establishment to see that peace is established in Borno,” he added..
The Former Governor said ” I have the confident and believe that Governor Zulum’s commitment to ensure enduring peace in the state.”
While responding, Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno state thanked them for the visit and assured his administration commitment to rerun all Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) back to their homes safety and dignified manner.
” We have to do something to address the security challenge in the state before it further deteriorates. The situation in the state is very dicey, obnoxious and will not be allowed to remain like that otherwise the insurgents will take over Maiduguri,, the governor stressed
He further said that “there is need for us to stamped our resilience with a view to build peace and stability,” .
Gov. Buni visits Maiduguri to commensurate with Zulum Over the attack on his convoy
Yobe shifts LG election to February next year
Boko Haram: Governor zulum urges FG to give special consideration to Borno youths in the 774 special public projects
Boko Haram; Governor Zulum urges FG to give Special consideration to Borno youths in the 774 Special Public Projects,
The Borno state Governor Prof. Babagana Zulum has called on the Federal government to give Special consideration to the state by engaging more Borno youths and women in the Federal Government 774 Special Public work projects due to the insurgency that ravaged the state in the last 10 years.
The governor made the appeal when flagging off the 774 Special Public works projects on Wednesday in Maiduguri said ” here in Borno we’re facing a lot of challenges due to decade long insurgency and further aggravated by the COVID 19 , we are appealing the Federal government to give special attention to Borno state”.
The Governor Zulum represented by his Deputy, Alhaji Umar Kadafur said “the pilot projects launched in Borno state in February, 2020 was successful but however the participants are yet to be paid their two months allowances. We urge the Federal Government to pay them.”
He said “the launhing of the Extended Public Works Project is timely, as the decade long insurgency has negatively affect the state. The Special public project is a strategy of creating jobs to teeming unemployed youths and women and in the fight against poverty.”
Also speaking, the Representative of the Federal Government, the State Minister for Agriculture, Hon. Mustapha Baba Shehuri said ” the Extended Special Public Works Projects is an initiative of President Muhammadu Buhari to create job to 774 ,000 youths and the pilot is taking place in Borno and 7 other states and will also be extended to to the 36 states and here in Borno 27000 youths and women are benefiting”.
” A Total of N1.62 billion has been set aside in different banks for the payment of their allowances and working tools were also provided for the youths to effectuveky carry out public work in different projects that will change their communities”, the minister added..
Hon Shehuri said ” in Borno state alone 4885 were trained various vocation skills acquisition, 596 women were trained in costimitology,, 50 people were trained in small scale enterprises and 15 were settled., 3,054 were trained micro empowerment scheme,, 500 internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) were trained in various camps across the State among other programmes”.
He urged Nigerians to cooperate with beneficiaries and the officials for success of the projects across the nation.
In his welcome address, the Acting Director General of the National Directorate of Employment (NDE), Abubakar Fikpo said the Extended Special Public Works Projects is very significant to the Federal Government quest to create job and fight unemployment, as well as cushioned the effect of COVID 19, adding that the projects is commencing in 8 states of Borno, Jigawa, Sokoto, Ondo, Adamawa, Eboyi among others.
The DG represented by his Special Assessment, Technical, Sumaila Mamman thanked President Bihari for entrusting the projects into the hands if NDE and promised to o justify the confidence eposed on them.
In his remarks, the chairman Borno state selection committee, Engr Bukar Talba commented President Buhari for the initiative of creating jobs to thousand of teeming unemployed youths, adding that Borno youths are hardworking and enterprising.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Liman Abba thanked the Federal government for giving them the opportunity and promised to put more efforts in discharging their duties.
1,163 IDP Children taking refuge in camps enrolled into Schools in Damasak
1,163 IDP-children taking refuge in camps enrolled into schools in Damasak
A total of 1,163 children of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) were enrolled into primary school supervised by Governor Babagana Zulum on the 3rd day of his humanitarian trip to Damasak, in the shores of Lake Chad,.
The pupils who hailed from Guzamala and Abadam local government areas in northern Borno, had been out of school since the displacement of their parents and guardians, by Boko Haram, following attacks on communities they lived.
While speaking at the enrollment ceremony in Damasak on Monday, Governor Zulum appealed to parents to allow their children enroll in schools, adding that where functional schools are provided by government, social welfare assistance from government will eventually be restricted to parents who allow their children and wards to attend schools whether western or combined curriculum of Islamic and western education.
The governor also addressed secondary school students in Damasak and those who have written their senior schools certificate exams, in preparation for higher institution and promised all of them government support to help them actualize their dreams in live.
Zulum had traveled to Damasak Saturday morning, the day he launched the distribution of water pumps, fertilizer, seeds, chemicals and five thousand naira cash to each of 1,200 irrigation farmers embarking on food cultivation this dry season.
It could be recalled that during the visit on Sunday, the governor supervised the distribution of food combination to 10,000 internally displaced families in need of support. Each of the 10,000 families received 25kg of rice
Restoration of livelihood: Zulum in Damasak, Distributes varieties of inputs, cash to 1,200 dry season farmers, distributed food items to 10,000 households
Restoration of livelihood; Zulum in Damasak, distributes variety of inputs, cash to 1,200 dry season farmers
Distributed food items to 10,000 households
In it’s efforts to reduced dependence on humanitarian supports, the Borno state government has distributed variety of farm inputs to 1,200 irrigation farmers for food production this dry season.
Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum of Borno state while lauching the distribution of farm implements in Damasak, headquarters of Mobbar local government area in northern Borno, yesterday urged the farmers to make good use of the implements so that they would not only feed their families but also sell the excess.
Zulum, who was accompanied by the senator representing northern Borno, who hails from the area, Senator Abubakar Kyari, distributed water pumps as key components of irrigation, fertilizer, seeds, chemicals and five thousand naira cash to each of the 1,200 farmers, all of whom will be cultivating rice and onions among other food crops.
The event was facilitated by the ministry of agriculture, under its commissioner, Engr Bukar Talba who spoke at the launch.
Damasak community members, led by Senator Kyari, thanked Zulum for his unquantifiable support, expressing their determination to increase food production in line with the governor’s vision in agriculture.
Zulum has always held the view that unless resettled communities engage in agricultural activities, there could be problems resulting unsustainable dependence on food aid from donors.
Similar in the second day in Damasak, the governor distributed food items to 10,000 internally displaced families
Damasak, a business town in northern Borno in the shores of the Lake Chad, Borno is about 200 kilometers away from Maiduguri, the Borno state capital
Each of the 10,000 families received 25kg of rice 25kg of beans, 25kg of maize and 5 litres of cooking oil as part of interventions before they can generate livelihoods for themselves in Damasak.
Damasak, headquarters of Mobbar local government area in northern Borno, is a former stronghold of Boko Haram insurgents before it was liberated with citizens now resettled by Zulum.
Zulum hopes that when farmers in Damasak, like others across the state, are able to cultivate food, dependence on food aid from donor partners will be largely reduced.
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Biafra: Why we’re yet to recover from pains of Civil War – MASSOB
Ameh Comrade Godwin
Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra, MASSOB, has said that the Igbo were still feeling the pains of the civil war, which lasted for about three years.
MASSOB stated that it was wrong for President Muhammadu Buhari to say that the Nigerian troops were soft on Biafrans, claiming that five million people of Igbo extraction were killed during the civil war (1967-1970).
The National Director of Information of MASSOB, Mr Sunday Okereafor, in a statement on Sunday, explained that while many Igbo people, including children, were killed, the entire Biafran people were subjected to hunger.
Okereafor recalled how Frederick Forsyth, a British pilot, who later became a journalist, captured what happened during the war and maintained that the federal troops were brutal against the Biafrans during the civil war.
Describing the civil war as genocide against the Igbo, Okereafor stated that the genocide in Rwanda was child’s play compared to the massacre during the Biafran war.
“We are still feeling the pains of the civil war. I lost my sister; Precious. Properties were also left as abandoned properties. Yakubu Gowon, who was the Head of State then, was not soft on Biafrans.
“He (Gowon) once said that he had no regret over the civil war. Over five million Igbo were killed by the Nigerian troops. We faced hunger and kwashiorkor. Children and civilians were attacked.
“It is surprising that Gowon is now telling the Igbo that they should forgive and forget about the past. During the war, two million children were killed; the attacks were in the markets. It is not true that the federal troops were soft on us. The Rwandan genocide is a child’s play to Biafran genocide.
“Frederick Forsyth, a former pilot, who later became a journalist, captured what happened during the war. How could they say that the troops were soft on us? The pains are there and we can never forget the pains,” Okereafor said.
Related Topics:biafraCivil WarMASSOB
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Zafar Malik
OPF Housing Society lacks basic facilities
ISLAMABAD: The housing society of the Overseas Pakistanis Foundation (OPF) is giving the looks of ancient ruins even after a lapse of two decades. The OPF made the housing society for overseas Pakistanis in Zone-V of Islamabad covering thousands of kanals of land, and the foundation had spent billions of rupees taken from potential residents, […]
OPF MD closes door on fake degree holders
ISLAMABAD: Overseas Pakistanis Foundation (OPF) Managing Director (MD) Habibur Rehman Gilani has said noose has been tightened around the fake degree holder and soon their cases will be forwarded to police and FIA. In an exclusive interview with Daily Times, he said, “It is fact that sheer injustices were done with OPF during the previous […]
Presidency becomes no-go area for media
ISLAMABAD: Security staff at the Presidency did not allow media to cover a function as a list carrying names went ‘missing’. The Presidency had invited the media for the coverage of a ceremony in which prizes were to be distributed among the toppers of FBISE exam. However, security officials prevented the media from entering the […]
Angry Punjab to teach Sharifs a lesson in next polls
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has learnt through a recent report compiled by intelligence agencies that his party would lose more than 100 seats in Punjab in the next general elections. Sources told Daily Times that the secret agencies issued an alarming report in which it is revealed that improvement of the systems of policing, […]
Chaudhrys to breathe new life into Mushs party
ISLAMABAD: Former president Pervez Musharraf has tasked his old confidants, the Chaudhrys of Gujrat, to transform his party into the third biggest political force in Pakistan. The party leaders have initiated meetings with smaller parties to bring them under one flag. In this connection, former Prime Minister Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain will be meeting important political […]
ISLAMABAD: Former president Pervez Musharraf has tasked his old confidants Chaudhrys of Gujrat to transform his party into the third biggest political force. The party leaders have started meetings with small parties to bring them under one flag. In this connection, former prime minister Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain would meet important political figures of the […]
Fake degree holders in OPF move against management
ISLAMABAD: Bogus degree holders in the Overseas Pakistani Foundation (OPF) have united and started a move against the management of the department. The administration of the OPF has also adopted a firm stance against the alliance of the fake degree holder by issuing an order that the pay and allowances would be stopped of […]
Workers agitated as PPP divided into two factions in Islamabad
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan People’s Party is clearly divided into two factions in federal capital Islamabad, where, after announcement of party office bearers for Islamabad, the workers have started protests. The President of PPP Central Punjab Qamar Zaman Kaira and General Secretary Nadim Afzal Chan , who show themselves as the champion of re-organising the party in […]
Sexual abuse scandal surfaces in OGRA
ISLAMABAD: A sexual harassment scandal surfaced in the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) has surfaced. The OGRA officials have not only levelled allegations but also handed over documentary evidence against each other to the National Accountability Bureau. After receiving complaints regarding the case NAB interrogated former OGRA Chairman Saeed Ahmed Khan, Aamir Saleem, Nauman […]
ISLAMABAD: A sexual harassment scandal in the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) has surfaced. OGRA officials not only levelled allegations but also handed over documentary evidence against each other to the National Accountability Bureau (NAB). After receiving complaints regarding the case NAB interrogated former OGRA chairman Saeed Ahmed Khan, Aamir Saleem, Nauman Afzal, Chaudhry […]
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‘Little Women’ Going Large At The B.O. With $100M+ By Oscar Weekend
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We knew this was going to happen. By Oscar Sunday, if not before, Greta Gerwig’s feature revival of Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women will cross $100 million at the domestic box office, a huge 33% surge in its domestic tally since notching six Oscar nominations on January 13 including Best Picture.
Amy March (Florence Pugh), Meg March (Emma Watson), Beth March (Eliza Scanlen) and Jo March (Saoirse Ronan) Sony
While Gerwig already demonstrated her flair for sophisticated fare coming off the five-time Oscar-nominated Lady Bird three years ago, Little Women just shows the commercial success the filmmaker can spur by giving classics a modern spin. That was the absolute sell in this nth remake of the late 19th century period tale about Jo March and her sisters who plot for a better life outside their snowy Massachusetts home. More upside: a box office hit like this for Gerwig further makes her a brand name among female moviegoers. While she was overlooked in the Directing category at both the Golden Globes and the Oscars, she scored an Original Screenplay nom at the latter.
'Birds Of Prey' Hopes To Slay $110M-$125M Global Opening - Box Office Preview
In a Christmas season largely owned by guy-leaning fare like Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker and Jumanji: The Next Level, Sony wisely launched Little Women as the option for girls (76% under 12) and moms (83%) with a PG rating, also drawing 44% females over 25, and 27% under 25. I’ll never forget the pent-up demand for Little Women at its first Hollywood screening at the DGA Theater on Sunset Boulevard back in October, with people fighting over seats and noted press being boxed out (which Sony later tended to graciously). That’s how much of a hot ticket the movie was, and continues to be. Comscore/Screen Engine PostTrak exits were 4 1/2 stars for general audiences and 5 stars for parents. CinemaScore was a very respectable A-. As of today, Little Women‘s domestic box office stands at $99.1M.
In addition to the magazine covers, panel Q&As, radio interviews, late-night and AM TV appearances by Gerwig and cast — Saoirse Ronan (Oscar best actress nominee), Florence Pugh (Oscar best supporting actress nominee), Timothee Chalamet, Laura Dern and Emma Watson — the team participated in various custom segments with specialty outlets like Popsugar, Buzzfeed, Refinery29 and MTV which aimed at key demos. Note this hysterical one with Pugh chowing down on British food with Vogue (at 1.9M views):
Sony pushed the pic largely in the literature and educational space, specifically librarians in top markets, public schools, YMCAs and after-school programs. Among those top organizations participating were the Library of Congress, New York City Public Schools, Barnard College, the LA Public Library System, The National Council of Teachers of English, and Book Bub, a website for book lovers that reaches north of 5 million readers.
Other literature-centric pushes included a partnership with Little Free Libraries to create Little Women-themed book-sharing boxes in 10 U.S. cities. Little Women movie books were also donated and stocked at 50 Little Free Library locations. Visitors to these libraries were invited to take a book and share what Little Women means to them on social. Sony also worked with The Book Fairies, a global book-sharing project, to hide over 2,000 copies of the May Alcott novel in 38 countries. Every novel hidden contained a copy of a handwritten note from Watson hidden its pages. Watson hid books around London, which she documented on Instagram to her 54M+ followers.
Sony also worked with non-profit Boston history tourist org Boston by Foot to create a Little Women-centric scavenger hunt for groups local to the Northeast.
The Culver City, CA studio hosted more than 30 word-of-mouth screenings in various markets with an emphasis on film groups, book clubs, sororities and teenage girls. The studio also targeted women who’ve empowered their local communities, advocating for those in need via a #LITTLEWOMENBIGSTORIES campaign. These women were honored before screenings in their markets, often with a donation to a charity of their choosing. There was also a “Senators and Wives” tastemaker/influencer screening in Washington DC that drew top legislators and their families.
Little Women spots aired on widely viewed TV programs throughout Q4 including The Little Mermaid Live!, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, The Voice finale, The Masked Singer finale, a Democratic debate and the Survivor finale. Sony also worked with Bravo to create custom vignettes with Top Chef‘s Gail Simmons in which she sat down to talk about the film with the cast.
There was also a big reach to the LGBTQ+ community with Sony teaming with prominent female influencers to host dedicated screenings in New York and Los Angeles including LGBTQ advocate Allison Graham (NY) and historian and author Blair Imani (LA), who connected to themes of female empowerment and individuality. Partners also included LGBTQ film festivals Outfest (LA) and NewFest (NY). There was a nightlife part of the marketing at LGBTQ venues. In five markets, drag queens were hired to host events, dress in a style inspired by Little Women and perform a “sisters”-themed number.
Also, let’s not forget one of the most powerful pieces of film marketing: Harry Potter alum Watson, who counts over 117 million social media followers across Twitter, Instagram and Facebook, and who shared original behind-the-scenes photos, trailers and more. Overall, social media universe for the pic prior to opening was 168.3M according to social media analyst Relishmix, well ahead of the average drama’s 109.2M followers before opening weekend.
RelishMix said of Sony’s handling of Little Women, “This film has its target audience, and the campaign has done a fine job of reaching them on a lot of different points, all of which are sellable.”
'Godzilla Vs. Kong' Jumps Up To March In HBO Max & Theatrical Debut
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India’s ‘Master’ Off To Commanding Box Office Start; Hindi Remake Set By Endemol Shine
Voltage Launches Global Sales On Revelations Entertainment's 'The Killing Of Kenneth Chamberlain'
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Last edited by JoJomi
Friday, February 14, 2020 | History
7 edition of Rock & roll diner found in the catalog.
popular American cooking, classic rock & roll music.
by Sharon O"Connor
Published 1996 by Menus and Music Productions in Emeryville, Calif .
Cookery, American,
Diners (Restaurants) -- United States,
Rock music -- To 1961,
Rock music -- 1961-1970
Other titles Rock and roll diner
Series Sharon O"Connor"s menus and music ;, v. 10
Contributions Bay City All Stars.
LC Classifications TX715 .O32724 1996
Plot summary[ edit ] Clark and Mary Willingham are a couple traveling through Oregon. Most of the E Street Band including Springsteen himself cycled through the band, while Steven Van Zandt was a full-fledged Rock & roll diner book and produced some of their most impactful material. His songwriting - and his immense success - owes as much to a relentless work ethic as it does to his undeniable brilliance. A basic fruit salad dish can be labeled "'Tutti Frutti' fruit salad" to reference the Little Richard song. Dip the cone and cake in melted chocolate; roll the cake in colored sugar or sparkly sprinkles to complete the microphone. From signed music memorabilia to collectible musical instruments and everything in between, this is one of the largest music collections around.
During the performance, Britney Spears rode a mechanical electric guitar, which simulated a mechanical bull, as it rotated on stage. Mary voices her worst fear when she asks Sissy her age; she is twenty-three, and has been that way for seven years. Of all the Rat Pack, nobody had the easy style of Dean Martin. He finally shouts: "Rock and roll will never die! This very recognizable black and turquoise silk suit from his 'Lovesexy' era was designed by his in-house Paisley Park wardrobe department and was worn by the Purple One at the Grammy Awards, where he was nominated in three categories.
After a waitress named CeCe Pryor attempts to warn them off, Clark slips out, but Mary is confronted by two dead musicians. He wore this denim vest on stage during the tour that made him a global superstar - 's 'Born in the U. Mary voices her worst fear when she asks Sissy her age; she is twenty-three, and has been that way for seven years. And then came their smash album 'Built for Speed', forever rescuing rockabilly from the brink of extinction. A full dinner of meatloaf, mashed potatoes and corn, for example, pays tribute to the singer, Meatloaf, popular songs from James Brown, Dee Dee Sharp and The Contours, and the hard rock band, Korn.
Political and diplomatic history of Russia
Highlands and Western Isles of Scotland, containing descriptions of their scenery and antiquities, with an account of the political history ...
Wall Street Journal on Management
On the long-run under-performance of IPOs
history and romance of the horse.
Fires of Coventry
Asking the right questions
functional response to prey density in an acarine system
The international menu speller
Legal Risk in Sport and Recreational Facility Management
Civil & criminal liability in commercial transactions
Proceedings of a Symposion on Perception of Reproduced Sound
The essence of spiritualism
Advanced Custom Painting Techniques
Jamaica at the Royal Jubilee Exhibition, Liverpool, 1887
fate of John the Baptist.
Rock & roll diner by Sharon O"Connor Download PDF Ebook
Clark is being transferred out of state, so they opt to take a more scenic route.
Inside the diner, they see that the town is inhabited by dead musicians. Clark and Mary drive frantically through the town, chased by dead music legends. A "Director's Cut" version of the video was Rock & roll diner book leaked, containing previously unseen scenes.
Mary feels worried about the too-perfect town, but Clark becomes irritated and the two argue. As they drive, Mary notices other citizens of Rock and Roll Heaven, all of whom look exhausted and apathetic; she realizes that these are Rock & roll diner book "true" inhabitants, lured in and trapped in the town.
She wore this Gareth Pugh silk gown with ostrich-feather sleeves for a Harper's Bazaar photo shoot for the magazine's March issue. She tells them that her name is Sissy, and reveals that one of her fingers was cut off by Frankie Lymon as punishment for assisting the pair.
Try cake pop microphones by sticking a miniature ice cream cone underneath the cake on a cake pop stick. She also explains that while the concerts must end at midnight, "time is different" in Rock and Roll Heaven; the songs sometimes go on for years.
That's a quintessentially Jersey approach. With a creative label, pretzel rods or veggie sticks transform into drum sticks for tiny rock stars.
Unlike so many of his contemporaries, Springsteen has never become a caricature of himself. The disc jockey Alan Freed takes the stage and begins to announce an endless series of legendary rock stars.
Dip the cone and cake in melted chocolate; roll the cake in colored sugar or sparkly sprinkles to complete the microphone. A police car bearing the mayor a deceased Elvis Presley and the chief of police pulls up. Mary looks at the other exhausted townsfolk, and chooses to sit next to the waitress from the diner.
For the members of the Rat Pack, however, that was essentially true.
Provide a selection of dinner rolls to pay tribute to the s band, Bread. The musicians ominously reveal that they couldn't have escaped, as the road out is surrounded by swamp, quicksand, bears, and "other things". Plot summary[ edit ] Clark and Mary Willingham are a couple traveling through Oregon.
The single sold a total of 65, copies. Init was added to the revamped set list of her Las Vegas residency show, Britney: Piece of Me —17marking the first time Spears performed the song in 14 years.
Try slider burgers, cocktail wieners in blankets, and paper cones filled with French fries to keep the food easier to eat on the go.
The two plan to visit Toketee Fallsand Clark insists on taking a road through Rock & roll diner book deep forest despite Mary's fears of becoming lost.
The satin crew jacket on display was owned and worn by Southside Johnny himself. A basic fruit salad dish can be labeled "'Tutti Frutti' fruit salad" to reference the Little Richard song.You Rock & roll diner book for: rock and roll diner!
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Rock & Roll Diner re-opened this past week after renovations. It's honestly one of the hidden gems of Roanoke, and folks visiting the city need to check it out. The tough part of my visit was figuring out what to order. We decided to do a taco tasting. First, we tried the fish tacos (simply amazing).4/5(8).
The Rock 'N Roll Diner has the look of a 's diner with the colors of pink, blue and black and makes the sound of fun fifties music. Our Rock 'N Roll Diner measures 9' 7" high x 18' 4" wide and includes plastic records and our Fifties Sound magicechomusic.com: Shindigz.Diner food and rock ’n’ roll went hand-in-hand in the s when customers noshed pdf diner fare while listening to the latest hit on the jukebox.
Serve full-sized hamburgers, hot dogs and baskets of fries if the party includes tables for guests to sit down and enjoy a meal.Rock & Roll Diner - Railroad St, Oceano, California - Rated based on Reviews "I brought my family to Rock and Roll Diner for the first /5().The Rock ebook Roll Diner opens every weekday at noon with Nick.
It’s all request for your lunch break! Place your order for a song from The River below.
magicechomusic.com - Rock & roll diner book © 2020
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HomeNewsHuobi Launches Trading in South Korea With 100 Cryptos
Huobi Launches Trading in South Korea With 100 Cryptos
Latest Update: Mar 30, 2018 2700
Despite the fact that the South Korean government has become colder towards cryptos since the end of 2017, a new cyber money trading venue has announced its launch in this country.
Finally, Huobi has formally set off in South Korea, offering 100 cryptos for trading, 201 crypto pairs as well as 208 markets.
The crypto bourse also promises to establish the safeguarded atmosphere for assets and a program for refunding any losses caused not by investors, stat. That is a very promising offer, especially after the January hacker attack on the Japanese platform Coincheck, resulting in the loss of $500 million worth NEM coins.
Huobi Entering South Korean Virtual Assets Market
Huobi is known to be a Chinese cyber money platform, headquartered in the country’s capital. Now, it has a subsidiary Huobi Korea in the progressive Asian state. The exchange notified about its formal launch on Friday, March 30.
Huobi itself is considered to be the third immense cyber money trading platform in the world. Every day, there are traded $1.32 billion worth coins. By contrast, Korea’s largest bourse Upbit can boast only with the $750 million trading volume.
Before China announced the clampdown on crypto exchanges, Huobi had been even the most considerable there. But since that time the company started spreading in other states, including Singapore, the US, Hong Kong and now, Korea.
Therefore, Huobi Korea has all the chances to succeed in a new market for it.
Security On Top
On par with a wide variety of offered pairs for trading, the new-born exchange also provides the high level of protection as it says it preserves almost 100% of its clients’ assets in cold wallets.
As it is known, this types of wallets which keep reserves of cryptos offline, not likewise hot wallets. Therefore, cold wallets are much more desperate for hackers to crack than the hot ones. By the way, in the case of Coincheck, most of NEM units were stored in hot wallets. That is why the incident occurred.
Huobi Korea also claims that its internal access operations have been reinforced.
Moreover, the platform also promises to establish a protection fund for all those people who have piled into cryptos, so that they would be able to get their funds back in case of any force majeure.
Variety For Trading
Among coins offered for trading on Huobi Korea, there will be known bitcoin, bitcoin cash, litecoin, NEO, Ripple, NEM, ethereum and lots of other altcoins, making up a sum of 100 coins.
However, there is no support for the Korean Won yet, even though the platform promises to prepare and launch it in the foreseeable future. That is, perhaps, due to the control that the South Korean gov’t set on the cryptos.
Since the end of January Korean financial establishments have the right to create virtual accounts only to Korea’s four most significant trading bourses, including Bithumb, Coinone, Upbit as well as Korbit. Other banks are not permitted to do so due to the real-name system for the crypto-market.
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Cancel Detroit’s Debt To The Banks!
Fight for Detroit jobs, pensions and services — the banks owe us!
Moratorium NOW! Coalition
International People’s Assembly
Detroit’s Debt Crisis: Everything Must Go
The city just suspended its payments to Wall Street. But is this the beginning of a resurrection for the city – or an organ sale?
By Laura Gottesdiener, Rolling Stone, June 20, 2013
Diego Rivera is under attack in Detroit. It’s not the first threat to the late Mexican artist’s famed murals, which depict the city’s steel factories with a not-quite-subtle anti-capitalist bent. In 1933, union workers had to guard the then-new exhibit from the followers of a fanatical local preacher. But today the mural series is facing a different challenge: It is one of many assets that the city could potentially sell off to pay back billions of dollars in long-term debts to Wall Street creditors.
Detroit’s finances and governance have been controlled since March by Kevyn Orr, the emergency manager appointed by Republican Governor Rick Snyder. Under Michigan’s controversial Public Act 436, Orr’s primary duty is to pay back the money that Detroit owes to Wall Street – which would mean scrounging up an impossible $16 to $18 billion. Orr recently announced that the city is temporarily suspending some of its debt payments, setting off a new round of speculation that the city could soon be declaring Chapter 9 bankruptcy. In the meantime, he has ordered that everything in the city be evaluated for the impending fire sale.
Many residents trace Detroit’s current troubles directly back to the foreclosure crisis it faced over the past decade. “Predatory dealing went down in Detroit,” says Egypt, a resident who works in the city’s law department. (She asked to use a pseudonym to protect her job.) “The media will say that it’s because of elected officials’ mismanagement – but that didn’t cause billions in debt.”
Egypt knows firsthand how hard Detroit was hit when the housing market collapsed. She got trapped in a ballooning mortgage that claimed her house in 2005 – a common story in this majority African-American city, where the crisis hit early and with a predatory vengeance. Between 2004 and 2006, a full 75 percent of mortgages issued in Detroit were subprime. By 2012, banks had foreclosed on 100,000 homes, which drove down the city’s total real estate value by 30 percent and spurred a mass exodus of nearly a quarter million people.
“We’re almost like economic refugees,” says Mike Shane, an organizer with Moratorium Now!, an activist group that is calling for a moratorium both on foreclosures and on municipal debt payments to Wall Street. According to the group’s analysis of thousands of city documents obtained through a Freedom of Information Request, it was the foreclosure crisis – not simply the steady march of deindustrialization – that pushed Detroit over the edge.
Starting in the mid-2000s, foreclosures eroded millions of dollars from the city’s tax base. This shortfall forced the city to begin borrowing money from Wall Street by issuing municipal bonds in 2005, the same year Egypt lost her home. As a result of a series of interest rate swaps and other financial acrobatics, the debt spiraled out of control. The city further shut down services to cut costs, which spurred even more people to leave – taking their tax dollars with them. In the last five years, the city lost $1.6 billion from declined property tax revenue alone.
“There was predatory lending against people, which precipitated the financial crisis,” says Jerry Goldberg, a leading anti-foreclosure lawyer. “Then the banks carried out what amounted to predatory lending against the city itself.”
Goldberg explains that pattern is repeating in other areas with high minority populations like Stockton, California and Jefferson County, Alabama. “That’s because the municipal crisis is itself an outgrowth of subprime lending,” he says.
Still, few places have been hit as badly as Detroit. “Detroit is called post-industrial, but it’s almost like a post-housing situation,” says Mike Fannon, development associate for the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American history. “There’s a lack of access to housing, even though the structures are there.”
To concerned residents like Fannon, recent events in Detroit raise a troubling question: Can America’s most basic democratic rights be realized without protecting economic rights as well? It’s the same point Franklin D. Roosevelt made in his Second Bill of Rights speech in 1944, when he said, “People who are hungry and out of a job are the stuff of which dictatorships are made.”
A quick survey of Michigan’s other emergency manager-controlled cities offers a bleak vision of what could happen soon in Detroit. From the start, the emergency manager plan was heavily backed by right-wing think tanks and the much-criticized American Legislative Exchange Council – and sure enough, emergency managers across the state have followed a radical right-wing blueprint. In Pontiac, the number of city employees plummeted from 600 to 50. In Muskegon last year, the school district’s emergency manager fired every single employee. Benton Harbor’s emergency manager effectively dissolved the city council. Allen Park’s emergency manager privatized the community center.
Debt payments aside, it’s increasingly clear to many residents that these policies are not improving their cities’ ability to provide basic services. In Highland Park, finances remained so dire even after a decade of emergency management that the gas and electric company recently repossessed 1,400 of the city’s streetlights – light poles included. Hamtramck, Flint and Highland Park are all still in debt after more than a decade under financial managers.
Orr’s most recent report suggests that Detroit may be headed down the same path of privatization and pension-slashing. His proposal to creditors included leasing the city’s water department to a regional agency and cutting back on health care for retirees. But the big question is whether the suspension of scheduled debt payments to Wall Street could potentially grow into the moratorium that activists are demanding – or whether it’s simply a threat intended to coerce unions and civic groups to accept sweeping cuts. “It’s pretty stunning,” says Moratorium Now!’s Shane. “This is signaling that he’s going to do some pretty drastic things.”
Read more: http://www.rollingstone.com/politics/news/detroits-debt-crisis-everything-must-go-20130620#ixzz2X09qnlKX
Follow us: @rollingstone on Twitter | RollingStone on Facebook
June 21, 2013 Posted by Moratorium NOW! at 1:38 am Uncategorized Tagged with: BANK FRAUD, CANCEL DEBT, debt service, debt service moratorium, Detroit, Emergency Manager, Moratorium NOW! Coalition, pensions Add comments
Just what are derivatives? Only solution to Detroit’s crisis: CANCEL THE DEBT
Plan for the Adjustment of Debts of the City of Detroit
Disclosure Statement With Respect to Plan for the Adjustment of Debts of the City of Detroit
The Plan for Adjustment was filed in U.S. Bankruptcy Court by Emergency Manager Kevin Orr and Jones Day Law Firm, "on behalf of the City of Detroit," on February 21, 2014.
Demos Report: The Detroit Bankruptcy
by Wallace Turberville, Demos, November 20, 2013
click image of Detroit skyline to download report
New pamphlet: Behind Detroit’s emergency manager dictatorship and bankruptcy . . .
Behind Detroit’s emergency manager dictatorship and bankruptcy . . .
Click image to read pamphlet.
Excerpts from the deposition of Kevyn Orr, taken by Jerome Goldberg, attorney for a City of Detroit retiree, on August 31, 2013
Detroit: Night of the Wolves (1:37) by Mumia Abu-Jamal
Three Detroiters discuss bankruptcy.
kpfk_130808_150045lawyersguild.MP3 (MP3 Format Sound, 13.2 MB)
City of Detroit Proposal for Creditors from Emergency Manager Kevyn Orr, June 14, 2013
Proposal for Creditors from City of Detroit-Executive Summary 6-14-13
Financial and Operating Plan for Detroit - May 12, 2013, from the Office of Detroit Emergency Manager Kevyn Orr
Jones Day Report – August 2011
Pensions and Chapter 9: Can Municipalities Use Bankruptcy to Solve Their Pension Woes?
Which muni bond funds hold Detroit bonds?
What’s Municipal Bond Insurance?
Detroit FOIA Request
City of Detroit Financial Documents Received in response to the FOIA lawsuit by the Moratorium NOW! Coalition
Detroit Debt Docs
FOIA letter
foia complaint filing 02-12-13
EXHIBITS 1 AND 2 FOIA Complaint
ISDA Master Agreement
The ISDA master agreement is the most commonly used master contract for OTC derivative transactions internationally. It is used to govern many of the financial transactions between the City of Detroit and Wall Street. Below are links to the agreement and sites with explanations.
ISDA Master Agreement - Wikipedia
ISDA Master Agreement - Practical Law
Master ISDA Agreement (pdf)
ISDA Master Agreement and Schedule (pdf)
The Bankers group:
ISDA-International Swaps and Derivatives Association, Inc.
ISDA news
Report of the Detroit Financial Review Team, March 26, 2012
Report of the Detroit Financial Review Team, February 19, 2013
Legacy Costs and Indebtedness of the City of Detroit-Citizens Research Council of Michigan, Dec., 2011
Just what are derivatives?
Inforgraphic: The LIBOR Scandal Explained
The Swap Crisis
Interest Rate Swap Report, SEIU, Mar. 22, 2010
The Blood of Cities: Public Finance, Debt, Accumulation
The Swaps That Swallowed Your Town
Wall Street's Tax on Main Street
The Plot Against Pensions
How Wall Street is bankrupting Public Transit Agencies by profiteering of off toxic swap deals
PublicSchool Emergency Managers
Robert Bobb And The Failure Of Public Act 72: A Case Study
DPS Emergency Manager Roy Roberts Revels in Accolades while Detroit’s Children Fall Further Behind
EMMA - Electronic Municipal Market Access
Visit the Moratorium NOW! Coalition website for actions and activities against the Detroit Emergency Manager and the Banks
File your objection in court
Come to the organizing meetings every Monday at 7 PM
Moratorium NOW! Coalition Office
5920 Second Ave., Detroit, MI 48202
(Two blocks north of Wayne State U.), map
Accessible ramp at side entrance
email:moratorium@moratorium-mi.org
STAND WITH DETROIT
Local Media reflecting the people’s voices
Voice of Detroit
by Curt Guyette, Investigative Reporter
City of Detroit – Case 13-53846
Click to go to the official website containing information for the City of Detroit Bankruptcy Filing for the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Eastern District of Michigan.
U.S. Government memorandum in support of the constitutionality of the Detroit bankruptcy
Demonstrators march in the “Great Walk to Freedom”, 50th Anniversary, June 22, 2013
Click on the image above to view the PowerPoint slides from the May 4 Rally
Detroit’s Economic Crisis and the Role of the Banks: Part of a Global Crisis
Municipal Bankruptcy News - American Bankruptcy Institute
Firefighters in England and Wales begin series of strikes in a long-running pensions fight
Wringing Detroit Dry
British Firefighters to strike over pensions for eight days in August
Testimony by Kristen A. Hamel, Detroit resident and homeowner
RNs to Declare Public Health Emergency
Detroit bankruptcy bills top $75M so far
Detroit bankruptcy bills, payments
STOP THE PRIVATIZATION OF DETROIT!
Ethiopia to give Djibouti underground water for free
U.N. officials condemn Detroit water shutoffs
Going Without Water in Detroit
Illinois Supreme Court: Retiree health benefits must not be reduced
Appeal to United Nations to Halt Racial Discrimination and Acts of Genocide Against the People of Detroit
‘Threat to health of region’
Detroit Financial Dictator Uses Water as Weapon – Black Agenda Radio
Banks have destroyed Detroit – Black Agenda TV
DWSD Shutoffs on Belgian radio
Just Say No! Union Leader Explains Why Retirees Should Reject ‘Grand Bargain’
Detroit’s Emergency Manager Shuts Off Water for Thousands of Homes; Is Your City Next?
Condemned by UN, Is Detroit’s Water Shutoff About Privatization?
Wall Street mouthpiece: the water shutoff policy is a necessary part of Detroit’s restructuring
Detroit and Iraq
‘NO’ to privatization in Philadelphia
EFF to Jones Day: Don’t Be A Trademark Bully
Detroit’s Water War: a tap shut-off that could impact 300,000 people
"property tax capture" austerity BANK FRAUD Bank of America-Merrill Lynch bankruptcy bankruptcy audio Barclays bond insurers CANCEL DEBT debt service debt service moratorium derivatives Detroit Detroit Eviction Defense Detroit Institute of Arts Detroit Public Schools EM Detroit Water and Sewerage Department Emergency Manager Fight for Democracy Financial Stability Agreement (FSA) Flint FOIA foreclosures Freedom Fridays gentrification Goldman Sachs Harrisburg interest rate swaps ISDA Jones Day JP Morgan Chase LIBOR May Day Moratorium NOW! Coalition objections pensions rating agencies Robert Bobb Stockton CA swaps taxes UBS videos voting rights water shutoffs
© 2013 For a Moratorium on Detroit's Public Debt Suffusion theme by Sayontan Sinha
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Chinese Whispers: An Art of Displaced Perception
Chinese Whispers is a curatorial survey of Eastern European artists whose work involves issues of miscommunication. The disintegration of the former Soviet Union and Eastern Block have precipitated widespread identity crises amongst its various cultures and ethnicities. A number of artists in this exhibition hail from the former Yugoslavia, where ancestral blood feuds have resurfaced in the form of civil war. The displacement of ideology and social infrastructure, economic hardship, and violence have led to an aesthetic of the absurd which manifests itself in various ways through photography, video projects, and installation work.
Mladen Stillnovi, An Artist Who Cannot Speak English is No Artist, 1994 – 2000, installation, acrylic on silk, wooden console, cakes, 52 x 118 inches.
Roman Ondák, an artist from Bratislava, exhibits a series of postcards entitled Antinomads. Ondák’s postcards depict people in personal environments such as a university professor in his study or a little girl in her room. The professor sits before a massive bookcase which is unable to absorb the vast assortment of periodicals and tomes which are stacked in piles at his feet. The little girl sits upright on her bed. She wears a t-shirt with a Western cartoon character and sits before curtain, which ostensibly covers a window but seems more like the sort which might cover the proscenium of a stage. A long shelf spans the top of the curtain along which her stuffed animals are displayed. Both subjects remain rooted in their place, having created a nest that reflect personal interests, house fetish objects, and reflect subtle particularities of the culture to which they appertain which are most difficult to describe and doubtless misinterpreted.
Vlado Martek exhibits a big red map on a black ground. His map describes the immediately recognizable silhouette of the United States, but on its face is scrawled “Balkan” in white lettering. Where prominent American cities might lie, the names of Balkan towns are written in black type. What does it mean? Is it about red blood or red communism or coca colonialism or mounting racial tension in the United States? Perhaps it reflects the almost meaningless, arbitrary nature of cartography and alludes to the danger of false boundaries and frontiers. Martek’s work, like that of Ondák, suggests a multiplicity of meanings to the Western viewer. Nonetheless, an informed reading of Martek’s map seems bound to a knowledge of Balkan history and its quagmire of separatist movements and blood feuds.
Mladen Stilinovi exhibits a print that depicts an appetizing assortment of cakes, torts, chocolates, and marzipans, presumably photographed through the window of a candy store. Superimposed on this image, in red type, is the phrase, “An Artist who Cannot Speak English is no Artist.” When I lived in Italy I remember that neo conceptual artists from Northern Italian cities outside Milan would come to Milanese openings and loiter outside (never entering the gallery) in a symbolic gesture of how they were excluded from mainstream exposure. Similarly, the Eastern European Stilinovi seems to refer to American cultural hegemony. Like some Dantean torture in Hades, non-English-speaking artist view the laurel crowns of their peers at a distance. Or perhaps Stilinovi questions the legitimacy of “internationalism,” wishing to conserve regional culture at all cost. Linguistic barriers once again obscure the meaning to an American viewer. Dalibor Martinis exhibits an installation of eight sheet music stands that are arranged following the semicircular contour of a wall. The stands are placed eighteen inches from the wall and between them are odd numbers of potted corn plants. There is no sheet music on the stands. What seems outwardly to be an Arte povera statement about material, in the context of Eastern Europe takes on darker meaning. Poverty, opportunism, ethnic rivalries, and war seem to alienate higher forms of cultural expression. Invisible musicians play against a wall with invisible music, or do they?
Chinese Whispers, curated by Branka Stipancic and Ana Devic from October 11 through November 11 at Apex Art Curatorial Program, 291 Church Street, New York, New York 10013, telephone (212) 431-5270.
© Daniel Rothbart, 2000.
Homage to ENRICO PEDRINI
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Why African startups are now on the acquisition trail
By Tom Jackson on June 19, 2018 East Africa, Features, North Africa, Southern Africa, Startups, West Africa
Investments in African startups are on the up year-on-year, with funding flooding into a variety of countries and a large selection of sectors.
The annual Disrupt Africa African Tech Startups Funding Report tracks the growing investor interest in the continent’s tech scene, but it also tracks acquisitions and exits each year. This tells a less coherent story.
There were only five acquisitions of African tech startups in 2017, the same as in 2015, and for less than in 2016. Acquirers are certainly interested in the space, but it seems that it is not yet mature enough for it to be recording multiple exits on a regular basis. This is surely something that will change over time.
When startups buy startups
What is happening, however, is African startups becoming acquirers themselves. In February, Lenya’s BitPesa, which raised two funding rounds last year to take its total secured investment to around the US$10 million mark, bought Spain-based online money transfer platform TransferZero.
Ghanaian marketing startup Kudobuzz has made two acquisitions this year, buying e-commerce product RetailTower and advert creation tool AdGeek. This was a process begun by Nigerian on-demand delivery startup Metro Africa Express (MAX) late in 2016 when it acquired Lagos-based Easyappetite.
But why is this happening, even before the African tech startup space has matured to the point where startups are serious targets for more major acquirers. BitPesa chief executive officer (CEO) Elizabeth Rossiello says the TransferZero acquisition came about as the Spanish firm was a BitPesa customer and the two teams had a strong working relationship.
“The acquisition came out of the realisation that we could be more successful working together and combining our assets,” she said.
That said, it was still a very big deal for an African tech startup to buy out a European one.
“I’m not sure what the numbers are, but there are very few small African startups that have grown in the last few years to purchase a European payments company. It takes a lot of corporate governance, financing, compliance and legal work to complete an acquisition,” says Rossiello.
“There is a lot of operational execution required in the months afterward to ensure optimisation of the new assets. We are really proud of our team’s work and achieving this milestone event.”
She says she sees a number of such consolidations occurring over the next few years as certain sectors slim down. Spaces such as fintech, for example, are crying out for consolidation, with significant stakeholders preaching its necessity. The Finnovating for Africa report released last year by Disrupt Africa, for example, found there were 125 payments and remittances startups active across Africa, and 31 in Nigeria alone. Mergers, acquisitions and – alas – closures are necessary and inevitable as the space evolves.
“There has been a long period of innovation and entrepreneurship, but there is a lot of overlap that is not efficient,” Rossiello said.
“As companies grow or specialise, there is a need to work together for better customer service. There has been some incredibly successful innovation over the past years in the fintech space, and the complementary models that have proven traction should be working together, either through mergers or strong partnerships.”
The need to embrace complementary models in order to grow was also behind the 2016 acquisition made by MAX, according to the startup’s director of marketing and communication Ized Uanikhehi.
“MAX decided to expand its food delivery service, so we decided to acquire Easyappetite. We also brought the founder on board,” she said. “This allowed MAX to expand rapidly in the food delivery space in Lagos.”
Uanikhehi said acquisitions were a big deal for any tech startup as they are a sign of liquidity, and agreed with Rossiello that consolidation in the startup space was a good thing as excessive competition destroys value.
“Consolidations mean people are working together to solve big problems,” she said, adding that she expected more acquisitions across the sector in the coming years, especially in fintech and logistics.
Can we expect more acquisitions?
Startups may be buying startups, but can we expect more activity on the part of major acquirers in the coming years? Successful exits would certainly help with attracting more investment to the space.
Last month saw South African restaurant technology company orderTalk get acquired by Uber Eats, in the latest successful exit for local VC firm Knife Capital. Knife Capital partner and co-founder Keet van Zyl says he expects to see more such deals occurring with greater frequency over the coming years.
“It is just a matter of time. Collectively some of the VC investors in Africa have enviable portfolio companies that will mature and attract interest from strategic acquirers. And our entrepreneurs and supporting ecosystems are gaining momentum,” he said.
Paul Cook is managing director of South African firm Silvertree Internet Holdings, which has been on the acquisition trail itself over the last couple of years, buying the likes of TopCheck and DealDey in Nigeria. He also expects more successful exits in the coming years.
“Many of the transactions seem to be in classifieds and e-commerce. At the moment, most are still driven by value-add that the acquirer can bring on top of the current business. I think the market is still perhaps too early-stage for deals driven by the value of the startup as a self-standing entity. Hopefully that will start to change,” he says.
Cook did, however, have a qualifier about deals that have taken place to date, saying unless you are on the inside it is hard to know when a transaction is a success and a real opportunity-driven acquisition, or rather a distressed sale due to shareholders needing liquidity or the under-performance of the company.
“I would say that we are starting to see a few more “secondary” – sale of shares versus investment – transactions, but at least some of these are distressed sales,” he said.
“Also, there was a wave of investments in spaces like e-commerce that happened several years ago, and it’s now come time for those investors to seek liquidity, so that’s driving some transactions.”
A how-to guide to exits
How have the exits that have taken place come about? van Zyl said each of Knife Capital’s exits – it also successfully exited its investment in Kubu to Garmin, for example – have been unique in their own way. In orderTalk’s case, the business was highly scalable, had a recurring revenue model, had seen aggressive growth, and was generating sustainable cash flows.
“Each startup had some key differentiators and was innovation-driven. The entrepreneurs focused on business development and were engaging and coachable. Business models were scalable and target markets mostly B2B. They had an Investment team behind them that always thought about the exit,” he said.
“Every strategic choice we made was considered from many angles, but one of those angles always included the impact it would have on the attractiveness to potential acquirers. And we always knew who they could be. From as early on as the due diligence exercise we built out a so-called ‘Partner Universe’ of preferred market access partners and potential acquirers to get closer to through our networks during the growth journey.”
During this journey, van Zyl said, Knife Capital prioritised value drivers and always had a realistic sense of what the financial and strategic valuation ranges of the companies could be.
“Then we ensured that the companies systematically built out a comprehensive sell-side data room as interesting things happen to interesting companies – and they were ready to pounce when the opportunities presented themselves,” he said.
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Tom Jackson
Passionate about the vibrant tech startups scene in Africa, Tom can usually be found sniffing out the continent's most exciting new companies and entrepreneurs, funding rounds and any other developments within the growing ecosystem.
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Ep. 10 – Zealots of Stockholm [Free Information]
Zealots of Stockholm begins and ends with a cold, somber sonic environment, fitting The Boy’s emotional state after the loss of his father, and reflective of his new environment in Stockholm, a notoriously cold city where it’s dark most of the day in the winter.
“When we were coming down, they left us all alone, / we’re headed nowhere.”
It seems The Boy is grappling with the loneliness of death and the isolation he feels in his grief. It’s a feeling that closely resembles something Glover himself wrote in his Instagram note above.
Note above, The Boy’s strained conversation with his father after driving home from camp and the mysterious calls from the Califax Collection Agency in Clapping for the Wrong Reasons as evidence of The Boy’s tense relationship with his father.
If we look at the movie poster made for BTI, done as a near-perfect-match to the first Star Wars poster, we see that Ross holds the same position as Darth Vader – an ominous, imposing father figure, whose identity and influence on his son are central to the development of the story.
Tweets by Hello_Pity_
In the screenplay, The Boy uses the “Free Information” of the internet to search for a follower online who lives in Stockholm to escape his loneliness. He ends up connecting with someone on twitter under the handle @Hello_Pity_.
Her avatar is an inverted photo of Hello Kitty, and he searches for her Instagram, which is private.
“We’re not together. But it’s a relationship, for sure.”
@Hello_Pity_’s real name is Alyssa. She asks The Boy about the longest relationship he’s ever been, and he reveals that it’s been 5 years – and he’s still in it. He goes on to describe a girl who does private web shows, who is almost undoubtedly referring to the characters played by former adult actress Abella Anderson throughout BTI. Most notably, she appears as a mystery figure in Clapping for the Wrong Reasons.
Anderson is also the subject of the lyric video for “3005,” wherein she performs a webcam show while chatting with Childish Gambino. Ticket sales Ticket sales for Gambino’s Deep Web Tour were ‘unlocked’ for presale by accessing a website called abella.xxx and using a similar chat function inside to ask Abella for tickets.
Click here to access the abella.xxx chat feature from the wayback machine
The chat also contained other functions, and the Abella algorithm would respond differently to lyrics from BTI as well as questions about different characters.
“She’s just chilled, a really cool person. The reason we liked her so much is that we all felt like we knew her in the back of our heads because she’s really good at making dudes feel like they have a girlfriend.”
Glover in GQ regarding Anderson’s casting
“Is it real cause you’re online?”
At each of the timestamped videos above, Glover discusses what is “real” and isn’t as the idea pertains to life on and off the internet.
At each of the timestamped videos above, Glover responds to a journalist who voiced frustration with not being able to determine exactly what the lyrics throughout the album were by discussing the subjectivity of every moment.
A YouTube creator who goes by the name Miss Aaron, or AARONE99, is the source of the sample in Zealots at about the 3-minute mark.
This sample’s connection to online fabrications is solidified in the live shows. In contrast to the mother’s monologues, which are represented by projections of glowing orbs, Miss Aaron’s passage is conveyed with a vibrating cube. Opposed to the natural shape of the orb, the geometric edges of the cube reflect the digital influence on any attempts at communicating an authentic self online.
it seems the situations of Abella Anderson and Miss Aaron convey a similar message – we need to be mindful of our consumption of people, and remember the human beings on the other side of our screens. Glover discussed this sort of situation through the lens of the infamous Vine star, TerRio.
Glover discusses vine and terrio on grantland.com
“Fame is not really cool at all. People don’t realize how dangerous it is. Everyone knows what TerRio looks like. And he’s a kid. Everyone knows who he is. And for some reason, people still equate fame with money. So people think this kid has a bunch of money. When, really, his face is everywhere and people are making money off his face by making TerRio T-shirts. It’s scary to be famous. They know everything about you.”
Glover on Vine star TerRio
“Craftmatic, making moves but they sleeping on me / we can kick it like its FIFA homie.”
Here, we see the drug metaphor extend with “craftmatic” – which likely references OJ da Juiceman’s song No Hook.
This song was used as the first musical cue in the first episode of Glover’s show, Atlanta. Glover also included it in a Spotify playlist he created in 2013 titled “the temple,” which highlighted songs that were played in the mansion when they created BTI.
Also, given that this line falls in the middle of clear references to other iconic hip hop songs, we have to consider the line being a possible allusion to A Tribe Called Quest’s classic, Can I Kick It?
“Nevertheless I got that fresh like it was Crest, grind ‘cause I’m stressed.”
The line alludes to another hip hop classic, the Luniz’ I Got 5 On It.
We also have to wonder about the extended references to teeth here — Crest toothpaste, grinding teeth, and TMJ. We’re reminded of The Boy’s twitter handle, @thegoldmolar – which is a reference to the scene in Clapping for the Wrong Reasons where Gambino grossly pulls a long string out of his nose, eventually revealing a bloody, golden molar.
Tweets by thegoldmolar
We might associate a gold molar or teeth as status symbols that cover up bad dental health. Since the gold molar is also tied to The Boy’s trolling online persona, the link to fabricated identity is clear – a gold tooth is an attempt to cover up something unsavory with a display of wealth and prosperity, just as Gambino has throughout the album and The Boy has done throughout the script.
“Lost God, never pray / forgotten us, lost love, never say just like our parents.”
These lines also convey the immense loss Gambino feels, especially with this song grappling with the death of his father, who we already noted might be a larger metaphor for society’s loss of God. This seems similar to existentialist Fredrich Nietzche’s infamous claim that “God is dead” and the general loss of purpose and structure that society would endure in the aftermath of this death.
All this talk about loss also reminds us of Glover’s instagram notes when he said, “I got really lost last year. But I can’t be lonely tho. Cause we’re all here.” Gambino touched on this above when reflecting on posting those notes.
“Too much power ain’t enough power”
If knowledge is power, then we have tons at this point, but it’s still not enough, exemplifying human nature’s tendency to never be satisfied, especially when it comes to the pursuit of power. Generally speaking, power is a concept that’s preoccupied Glover for years. He has “Truth is a power” tattooed on his bicep.
“Power is what allows you to do whatever you want… I’m in it for the power.”
Glover in the Village Voice, 2011
And don’t forget, he covered this same topic on his Sway Freestyle as well.
“Brain splattered like I’ve fallen off a watchtower”
This line seems to reference both Glover’s suicide attempt and the Jehovah’s Witness monthly religious magazine, The Watchtower, one of their primary tools for circulating free information. Given Gambino’s continued worries over disappointing his parents, this nod to Glover’s childhood faith ties in his real-life parents, and his worries that his life of celebrity and art, which fails to adhere to the Jehovah’s Witness faith, has removed him from their lifestyle, perhaps for good.
“Kinison said if you gon’ miss heaven, why do it by two inches? Old money and new bitches.”
This is a reference to a quote from stand up comedian Sam Kinison, a boisterous and primal performer whose history of being a pentecostal preacher before turning to hedonism and the entertainment industry reflects the thematic content of the track.
“Getting next level in a hotel / ain’t shit that we don’t need, [n-word] oh well”
This passage stands in stark contrast to the script, where The Boy and Alyssa sit in a bit of awkward silence staring at the urn holding his father’s ashes in his hotel room. Alyssa asks if they were close, or if The Boy wants to talk about it, and he responds “no” to both. When The Boy gets up to make a drink, Alyssa takes the urn and walks out, aligning with the sounds of passing cars we hear at the end of “Zealots of Stockholm.”
Author dissectpodcastPosted on November 2, 2020 November 10, 2020 Categories S7 Visual GuidesTags Analysis, because the internet, childish gambino, Dissect Podcast, free information, Meaning, zealots of stockholm
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BlogsJust Jim
A Long Way Back
By chris No Comments
Following this week’s extension of the lockdown, business in the North is desperate for some indication of how long it might go on. The pressure on the government for an answer is only increased by the partial lifting of restrictions in Spain and Italy.
The main problem is the lack of testing. Few believe the Health Secretary will achieve 100,000 tests by the end of April. Until we identify where the infection dangers remain at their highest, how can the government ease the restrictions?
One wants to give Ministers some slack as they are faced with the enormity of Covid-19 but the response to the virus both medically and economically has been patchy. Capacity in the NHS seems to have been addressed with some of the Nightingale hospitals standing empty. But in the areas of testing and protective clothing, one gets the impression that there has been a lack of transparency and a surplus of wishful thinking. On the number of deaths, the figure we need to see prominently on our TV screens is the total number of deaths in hospitals and care homes, even if the latter takes longer to compile.
The revelation of the true position in our care homes over the last week has been truly shocking. The service needs to be treated as a twin of the NHS, both now and in a long-term solution that has so far just caused political point scoring.
ECONOMIC CAUTION
There is much speculation about the shape of the recovery when it comes. It is unlikely to be V shaped in my opinion. Although there will be pent up demand, millions of people will have had their income planning totally disrupted. There will be caution in the high street and in the property market. Without testing there will be fear about mass contact while the virus is still out there.
The Office for Budget Responsibility spelt out the stark figures this week. The OBR does not disguise the difficulties the government will face when it finally relents on the shutdown.
STARMER’S NORTH WEST STARLETS
The new Labour leader has now completed his team for when politics gets back to normal. I’ve been looking at the North West MPs that he has picked.
There are a couple of Corbyn supporters; Dan Carden (Walton) who is in the Treasury team and Cat Smith (Lancaster) dealing with young people.
St Helens MP Conor McGinn, born in Northern Ireland during the Troubles, is Shadow Security Minister; while Ellesmere Port’s Justin Madders takes on the task of monitoring Public Health where so many questions will be asked when the virus has passed. His colleague in Chester, Chris Mathieson will be the new spokesman on media policy.
Manchester’s Lucy Powell is the new Shadow Business Minister while neighbour and Urmston MP Kate Green deals with child poverty. Mike Kane, representing Wythenshawe has the important job of Shadow Transport Minister.
Over on Merseyside, Wirral West’s Margaret Greenwood will shadow schools and Alison McGovern, sport, not the best use of her many talents in my opinion. Bill Esterson (Sefton Central) covers Overseas Development under Emily Thornberry who should have been sacked.
Kate Hollern will use her experience as leader of Blackburn Council to shadow local government while Mike Amesbury (Weaver Vale) has another important portfolio in housing.
They will all have an uphill task to make names for themselves in the current circumstances and following Labour’s massive defeat, but we will see who takes their chance.
Follow @JimHancockUK
Tweets by JimHancockUK
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Fort Collins, CA © 2016 Drive Electric Northern Colorado
Location: Downtown Santa Cruz, Cooper St Between Pacific Ave and Front St
113 Cooper St
We hosted our local event in downtown Santa Cruz for the first time. We estimated about 800 people who came through including some of our elected officials. The event featured 20 electric vehicles with many on display and several available for test drives. We also partnered with several local bike shops to offer electric bike test rides. We had 20 electric bikes of all different types and had over 45 e-bike test rides. We had many booth partners who provided community members with information and resources including from local solar companies (one of which brought a solar array and we were able to plug in one of our EVs on display to demonstrate charging), our local Air District, the City of Santa Cruz, Monterey Bay Community Power and more.
photo by: Ecology Action
General community members (not sure of names). In foreground there is a Tesla Model X
More photos from this event.
We are excited to be hosting our National Drive Electric Day event in downtown Santa Cruz for the first time! Cooper Street between Pacific Avenue and Front Street will be closed to traffic and we will have a number of the most popular electric vehicles on display. Join us to view these vehicles up close and talk with owners and EV experts. In addition, we will be offering test drives and will also have electric bike test rides.
The event will also feature information booths where you can talk with local solar companies who have experience in installing home charging stations, gather educational resources from our Monterey Bay Electric Vehicle Alliance/Electric Auto Association booth and more.
Our event will be next to the new Abbott Square Marketplace which just opened and features a number of restaurants which we hope you will take advantage of while at our event.
Mitsubishi i-MiEV 1
9 Models 16
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Dual Enrollment Program Manual
This document has been formatted to meet accessibility standards under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1978. If you encounter errors in formatting or structure that prevent you from accessing the content in this document, please contact the webmaster. For more information, read the Agency of Education Web and Document Accessibility Policy.
Copyright © 2021 State of Vermont. All rights reserved Accessibility Policy + Privacy Policy
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Successful Islet Transplantation
Continued Insulin Reserve Provides Long-Term Glycemic Control
Edmond A. Ryan1,
Jonathan R.T. Lakey23,
Breay W. Paty1,
Sharleen Imes4,
Gregory S. Korbutt3,
Norman M. Kneteman2,
David Bigam2,
Ray V. Rajotte3 and
A.M. James Shapiro2
1Department of Medicine, Clinical Islet Transplant Program, University of Alberta and Capital Health Authority, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
2Department of Surgery, Clinical Islet Transplant Program, University of Alberta and Capital Health Authority, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
3Surgical Medical Research Institute, Clinical Islet Transplant Program, University of Alberta and Capital Health Authority, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
4Capital Health Authority, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
Diabetes 2002 Jul; 51(7): 2148-2157. https://doi.org/10.2337/diabetes.51.7.2148
Clinical islet transplantation is gaining acceptance as a potential therapy, particularly for subjects who have labile diabetes or problems with hypoglycemic awareness. The risks of the procedure and long-term outcomes are still not fully known. We have performed 54 islet transplantation procedures on 30 subjects and have detailed follow-up in 17 consecutive Edmonton protocol-treated subjects who attained insulin independence after transplantation of adequate numbers of islets. Subjects were assessed pretransplant and followed prospectively posttransplant for immediate and long-term complications related to the procedure or immunosuppressive therapy. The 17 patients all became insulin independent after a minimum of 9,000 islets/kg were transplanted. Of 15 consecutive patients with at least 1 year of follow-up after the initial transplant, 12 (80%) were insulin independent at 1 year. In 14 subjects who have maintained demonstrable C-peptide secretion, glucose control has been stable and glycemic lability and problems with hypoglycemic reactions have been corrected. After 2 of the 54 procedures, some thrombosis was detected in the portal vein circulation. Five subjects had bleeding related to the percutaneous portal vein access procedures: three required transfusion alone, and in one subject, who had a partial thrombosis of the portal vein, an expanding intrahepatic and subscapular hemorrhage occurred while on anticoagulation, requiring transfusion and surgery. Elevated liver function test results were found in 46% of subjects but resolved in all. Complications related to the therapy have been hypercholesterolemia requiring statin therapy in 65%; a rise in creatinine in two patients, both of whom had preexisting renal disease; a rise in protein in four, all of whom had preexisting proteinuria; and antihypertensive therapy increased or started in 53%. Three of the 17 patients have required retinal laser photocoagulation. There have been no cases of posttransplant lymphoproliferative disorder or cytomegalovirus infection, and no deaths. The acute insulin response to arginine correlated better with transplanted islet mass than acute insulin response to glucose (AIRg) and area under the curve for insulin (AUCi), but the AIRg and AUCi were more closely related to glycemic control. The AUCi directly posttransplant was lower in those who eventually became C-peptide deficient. Our results, with a maximum follow-up of 34 months, indicate that prolonged insulin independence can be achieved after islet transplantation. There are some risks associated acutely with the procedure, and hypercholesterolemia and hypertension are treatable concerns on longer-term follow-up. All patients with persisting C-peptide secretion have had a resolution of both glycemic lability and problems with hypoglycemic reactions. Apart from the rise in serum creatinine in two subjects, no serious consequences of immunosuppressive therapy have been encountered. Islet transplantation is a reasonable option in those with severe problems with glycemic lability or hypoglycemia.
Interest in islet transplantation has increased enormously, because of the improved success rates with newer immunosuppressive regimens and islet preparation techniques (1,2). After our early results, many other centers are now initiating islet transplant programs (3,4). A favorable outcome depends primarily on having excellence in harvesting human islets, appropriate immunosuppression regimens, and medical expertise in selecting patients and in follow-up. Although successful islet transplant programs are relatively new, the concept of transplanting islets rather than the whole pancreas is attractive because of its technical ease and the ability to transplant early in the course of the disease. The early promise of islet transplantation is now a reality, but the process still carries potential risks.
In deciding whether it is worthwhile to undergo the risk of immunosuppression for labile diabetes or concerns with hypoglycemia, it is important to be aware of the problems and outcomes in the long term. The simplest measure of success is insulin independence, which must be judged in the context of glycemic control. However, other parameters have to be assessed, including the risks associated with both the procedure and immunosuppression, the improvement in glycemic lability, the eradication of problems with hypoglycemia, the effect of transplantation on long-term diabetes complications, and finally, the economic costs involved. In addition, early measures of success of the transplant other than the absolute measure of insulin independence would be helpful to assess function and outcomes. Measures of insulin release after the secretagogues glucose or arginine have been suggested but not formally studied in the setting of successful allotransplantation.
As of 1 January 2002, we performed 54 procedures as part of our islet transplant program, and these serve to delineate issues related to the procedure. Seventeen subjects have completed the Edmonton protocol and are the basis of this report of longer-term outcomes. Our results demonstrate the ability to stabilize labile diabetes and greatly improve problems with hypoglycemia. The better measure of insulin reserve appears to be the insulin response after intravenous glucose.
Thirty consecutive patients had islet transplantation, for a total of 54 procedures. Seventeen of these had islet transplantation using the Edmonton protocol, with provision of adequate numbers of islets for insulin independence. These 17 subjects have had a total of 38 procedures as part of their original transplant protocol. Three others have had their first transplant procedure and are in the process of completing the Edmonton protocol. Eight further subjects have had an islet transplant with another protocol using infliximab (nine procedures). Two more subjects had a transplantation under the Immune Tolerance Network protocol (two procedures), and 2 of the original 17 Edmonton protocol subjects had a supplemental infusion of islets.
The major indications were labile diabetes or decreased awareness of hypoglycemia giving rise to frequent or severe hypoglycemic reactions or progressive complications of diabetes. Further to our previous report (4), the latter is now a rare indication for an islet transplantation in our current subjects. Problems with hypoglycemia were characterized with a month’s monitoring of glucose values and documentation of all occurrences of capillary glucose values <3.0 mmol/l with minimal or no symptoms of hypoglycemia or primarily neuroglycopenic symptoms. Typically, evidence of severe hypoglycemia (requiring outside help to treat the hypoglycemia) was required. Labile diabetes was characterized using mean amplitude of glycemic excursion (MAGE), (5) and evidence for disruption of daily lifestyle was also sought. Approval for either indication required confirmation that the problems had not been rectified by a period of intensive insulin therapy and intensive glucose monitoring. Of the 30 patients, 90% had problems with hypoglycemia awareness, 50% had labile diabetes, and 2 patients had progressive complications. All patients were fully briefed on the risks and complications associated with the procedure and immunosuppressive therapy, and all gave written informed consent. The protocols were approved by the Research Ethics Board of the University of Alberta.
The 30 patients, 14 men and 16 women with type 1 diabetes (absent C-peptide), had a mean age of 41.3 ± 1.6 years and a duration of diabetes of 25.5 ± 2.1 years. In the 17 subjects who completed the Edmonton protocol, 10 men and 7 women (mean age 39.7 ± 2.0 years and duration of diabetes 27.2 ± 2.8 years), 8 had evidence of treated proliferative retinopathy (1 was blind), and 3 others had nonproliferative retinopathy. Three subjects had elevated serum creatinine, five had both microalbuminuria and macroproteinuria, and two each had microalbuminuria or macroproteinuria. One subject had known coronary artery disease that had been previously treated by angioplasty and was stable. Two subjects had severe painful peripheral neuropathy, four gave a history suggesting possible autonomic neuropathy (impotence), and one patient had Charcot arthropathy. Pretransplant, all patients underwent a complete blood count (CBC), liver function tests (LFTs), and tests for electrolytes, calcium, magnesium, thyroid function, lipid profile, and renal function. Both Addison’s disease and celiac disease as causes of labile diabetes or recurrent hypoglycemia were excluded; prostate-specific antigen levels were determined in men >40 years old, and women >40 underwent mammograms. An ultrasound of the abdomen was performed, as were chest X-ray, dental exam, and electrocardiogram. Further cardiac tests were performed if it was believed they were required. Screening was done for cytomegalovirus (CMV) IgG, Epstein-Barr nuclear antigen IgG, varicella-zoster IgG, hepatitis, syphilis, toxoplasmosis, and HIV. Lymphocytotoxic antibody screens were performed. All patients were screened for C-peptide status with determination of glucose and C-peptide levels before and 90 min after ingestion of a standard mixed meal.
Transplant procedures.
Islets were prepared as previously described (3,6–8). Briefly, human cadaveric pancreata were removed from brain-dead multiorgan donors following in situ vascular flushing with cold University of Wisconsin solution and transported to Edmonton. On arrival at the laboratory, the pancreatic duct was cannulated and liberase enzyme (Boehringer Mannheim, Indianapolis, IN) (8) was perfused. The pancreas was enzymatically and mechanically dissociated before the islets were separated on a refrigerated Cobe 2991 centrifuge (Cobe BCT, Lakewood, CO). A group of pancreata (n = 14) were preserved for a period of 2–3 h with a two-layer (University of Wisconsin/perfluorochemical) cold storage method, as the retrieval results for situations of longer cold ischemic time appear to improve islet recovery with this modification (T. Tsujimura, Y. Kuroda, T. Kin, J.G. Avila, R.V.R., G.S.K., E.A.R., A.M.J.S., J.R.T.L., unpublished observations). In addition, in some cases, isolated islets were cultured at 22°C for up to a maximum of 12 h before transplantation (n = 14) to facilitate timing of islet infusion. This did not appear to adversely affect viability, as measured in vitro after transplantation (3). Islet numbers were quantified in duplicate using an islet standard diameter of 150 μm (9). Once the islets were obtained, the patient was admitted and (for the Edmonton protocol) had the following tests: CBC, chest X-ray, LFTs, and coagulation screen. The patient was then brought to the Radiology Department, and portal vein cannulation was performed. Typically, a size 4F catheter is now used to minimize the risk of bleeding, and with this a Gelfoam plug is not required as previously reported (4). Once the portal vein was cannulated, the islets were slowly injected. To facilitate the slow pace, for the four most recent procedures, a gravity feed system has been used: the islets in culture medium were placed in an intravenous fluid bag and were allowed to infuse under gravity pressure, which may decrease the shear forces on the islets. Portal pressure was monitored after each infusion, and once the transplant was completed, the patient returned to the ward. The glucose was monitored hourly initially, and insulin therapy was withheld until glucose was >8.0 mmol/l premeal or ≥10.0 mmol/l 2-h postmeal.
Patients were usually discharged the following day once an ultrasound had confirmed the absence of any portal vein thrombosis and the CBC and LFT results were acceptable. Immunosuppressive therapy consisted of dacluzimab every 14 days for 10 weeks (1 mg/kg), sirolimus with a loading dose of 0.2 mg/kg followed by 0.1 mg/kg with target trough levels of 12–15 ng/ml, and tacrolimus at a dose of 2–4 mg twice a day with a target trough level of 3–5 ng/ml. Inhaled pentamidine was used for pneumocystis carinii prophylaxis originally, but sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim has been used in its place for the most recent 13 patients because of its more broad coverage. Ganciclovir 1,000 mg three times a day for 3 months was given for CMV prophylaxis. CBC, drug levels, and basic parameters (LFTs, electrolytes, calcium, and magnesium) were measured three times a week for the first 2 weeks, twice a week for the next 2 weeks, and then weekly.
Metabolic monitoring.
Before transplantation, all patients had C-peptide and glucose measurements before and after mixed-meal stimulation tests (Ensure HP; Abbott Laboratories). After transplant, fasting C-peptide and glucose levels were measured daily for the first week and then weekly. If insulin was used, the dose was recorded as the amount used on the day before the clinic visit. The Edmonton protocol subjects had Ensure tests performed 2 weeks after the first transplant and then at 2 weeks off insulin therapy, 3 and 6 months off insulin, and every 6 months afterward. These subjects also had intravenous glucose tolerance tests (IVGTTs) and intravenous arginine stimulation tests between the first and second transplants, 1, 3, and 6 months after becoming insulin independent after the second transplant, and every 6 months thereafter. An oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was performed at 6 and 12 months and then at yearly intervals posttransplant in insulin-independent subjects. HbA1c and lipid profiles were checked monthly. In seven subjects, arginine and IVGTTs were performed pretransplant.
The meal tolerance test was performed in the fasting state with blood drawn for glucose and C-peptide at baseline and then at 90 min after drinking 360 ml Ensure (391 kcal with 8.5 g fat, 44 g carbohydrate, and 17 g protein). The morning of the test, subjects did not take insulin until the test was completed, and typically the test was postponed if the glucose was >15 mmol/l before starting. The OGTT was performed using 75 g of oral glucose, with blood samples drawn at baseline and 30, 60, 90, and 120 min.
IVGTTs were performed in the fasting state using 50% dextrose, 300 mg/kg body wt, given over 1 min after two baseline samples (–10 and 0 min) for glucose, insulin, and C-peptide were drawn. Sampling was then at 3, 4, 5, 7, 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 min, with time 0 being the start of the infusion. On a separate day, 5 g arginine HCl was infused intravenously over 0.5 min into the patient in the fasting state, and insulin levels were checked at the following time periods: −10, 0, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, and 10 min.
The IVGTT allowed calculation of the acute insulin response to glucose (AIRg) based on the mean of the insulin level at 3, 4, and 5 min after the infusion less the mean basal insulin level. Glucose disposal (KG) was calculated as the slope of the natural log of the glucose values from 10 to 30 min. The areas under the curve for insulin and C-peptide (AUCi and AUCC-p) were calculated as the area under the curve above baseline over 30 min postinfusion. Acute insulin response to arginine (AIRarg) was calculated as the mean of the three highest values for 2, 3, 4, and 5 min postinfusion less the mean basal value. Homeostasis model assessment (HOMA) was calculated based on the formula of Levy et al. (10) for the assessment of insulin sensitivity.
Glucose was measured by the hexokinase method using the Hitachi 917 system (Roche Diagnostics, Indianapolis, IN). As of December 2000, serum insulin was measured by Elecsys radioimmunoassay using a commercial kit (Roche Diagnostics) with local laboratory intra-assay and interassay coefficients of variation <8.2% and a lower limit of detectability of 0.2 μU/ml; all samples were measured in duplicate. Serum C-peptide was measured using a commercial assay (Diagnostic Systems Laboratories, Webster, TX). The lower limit of sensitivity of this assay was 0.1 nmol/l and the intra-assay and interassay coefficients of variation were <12.3%. An ischemic index was calculated by dividing the number of islets transplanted × 10–3 by the total cold ischemia time (time from cross clamp until time of islet infusion into the patient) as previously described (4). The ischemic index for each infusate was summed for a total for each patient.
Statistics.
All statistical and regression analyses were performed using Sigma-Stat from Jandel Scientific (San Rafael, CA), and descriptive statistics are given as means ± SE or medians (25–75% CI). Significance was taken at a P value of <0.05, and groups were compared with Student’s t test and Mann-Whitney U rank sum test or Wilcoxon signed rank test when normality tests failed. ANOVA was used for multiple comparisons, with the Tukey test for assessing significance.
Control subjects.
Ten volunteers (six women, four men; age 32 ± 4 years, BMI 23.7 ± 0.8 kg/m2) were studied as control subjects for metabolic tests. All had confirmed normal OGTTs, with a fasting glucose of 4.2 ± 0.2 mmol/l; 2-h postload glucose was 4.4 ± 0.4 mmol/l. The subjects underwent mixed-meal tolerance testing for determination of glucose and C-peptide and both arginine and IVGTTs.
Of 54 islet transplant procedures, all were successful in achieving portal vein access and being able to use the islets for transplantation. The median hospital stay was 1 day (CI, 1–2). Two patients had transient bradycardia during the procedure, believed to be vasovagal attacks. Five patients had a bleed after the transplant, four of whom required blood transfusions. In one of these subjects, a thrombus occurred in the right portal vein (the main and left portal veins were patent), and anticoagulation was commenced. Three days later, an expanding intrahepatic and subcapsular bleed occurred, requiring transfusion and surgery to evacuate the hematoma with segmental hepatic resection. One other thrombus occurred as reported previously (4). In 12 of 54 procedures, moderate abdominal pain occurred, which was transient. In two patients, puncture of the gallbladder occurred, but in both cases it settled spontaneously and was noted at the time of the portal vein cannulation. LFT results rose to more than twice normal levels in 46% of cases; this peak typically occurred at 6 days posttransplant (CI, 4–9). In all these patients, LFTs returned to normal within a median time of 22 days (CI, 17–41). In only eight instances did alkaline phosphatase rise, and in all patients the peak aspartate aminotransferase was 189 ± 23 U/l (range, 62–563) (normal, <40 U/l) and the peak alanine aminotransferase was 208 ± 26 U/l (range, 59–614) (normal, <50 U/l).
Glycemic outcomes with the Edmonton protocol.
Seventeen patients have completed the islet transplant procedure using the Edmonton protocol. The median follow-up time for these 17 patients was 20.4 months (CI, 15–29), with a range of 3.2–34.2 months from the first transplant. HbA1c pretransplant was 8.21 ± 0.36, and the most recent value was 6.08 ± 0.77 (P < 0.001) (normal <6.1%). At 1 year after the initial transplant, 12 of 15 subjects were off insulin. As of 1 January 2002, of the 17 subjects, 11 remained off insulin and in these 11, HbA1c pretransplant was 8.48 ± 0.49% and the most recent value was 5.8 ± 0.13 (P < 0.001) at a median follow-up of 20.4 months (CI, 14.2–30.5) (Fig. 1A). Of these 11 subjects, 2 are on oral hypoglycemic agents but have good glycemic control. The oral hypoglycemic agents were started because the HbA1c rose above 6.5% in one subject and the postprandial glucose levels were consistently >10.0 mmol/l in the other subject. Glucose and C-peptide levels before and after the mixed-meal stimulation are shown in Figs. 1B and C for the pretransplant and most recent posttransplant tests. Although the C-peptide response was clearly improved and the stimulated C-peptide values were equivalent to those of control subjects, the glucose levels post-Ensure are higher in the posttransplant group than the control group but much better than pretransplant. All the subjects off insulin have stable glucose values and do not have hypoglycemic reactions.
Of the 6 patients who are now >2 years posttransplant, 4 remain off insulin, and of the 15 patients who are >1 year posttransplant, 9 are still off insulin. The more stringent criteria of the OGTT revealed that only two subjects currently meet the criteria for normal glucose tolerance. Of the 17 patients, 11 have diabetes by American Diabetes Association criteria, and in all but 3 of these there is detectable C-peptide secretion. The MAGE value pretransplant for the subjects judged to have increased lability was 10.6 (CI, 9.0–12.5), and the most recent value was 3.3 (CI, 2.6–5.7 mmol/l), indicative of more stable glucose control (P = 0.003). Fasting C-peptide was maintained over prolonged follow-up (Fig. 2). Of the six patients who are back on insulin, three lost C-peptide secretion at 7.5, 16, and 17 months posttransplant. Two of the three have become positive for glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) and islet cell antigen (ICA) antibodies and are believed to have had a recurrence of their autoimmune disease. The other subject who lost C-peptide remained negative for ICA and GAD antibodies, and one of the subjects on insulin with continuing C-peptide secretion (to 31 months) also had a rise in ICA and GAD antibodies. In the six patients requiring insulin, the median interval from the first transplant to restarting insulin was 10.1 months (CI, 2.5–14.1; range, 2–22.8 months). The current daily insulin dose in the three C-peptide-positive subjects on insulin is 0.33 ± 0.1 units/kg, which is significantly less than their pretransplant use of insulin (0.58 ± 0.08 units/kg; P = 0.015).
Immunosuppression regimen.
As previously reported, two of the three patients with preexisting elevation of serum creatinine had a further rise of serum creatinine. In both of these subjects, the creatinine level has remained stable over the last year after replacing tacrolimus with mycophenolate mofetil: baseline serum creatinine of 160, peak of 371, and most recent 234 μmol/l for the first patient; and baseline of 158, peak of 269, and most recent of 251 μmol/l for the second patient. Four others had an increase in urine protein and, again in the three subjects with follow-up for more than a year, the urine protein has remained stable. Only 2 of 17 subjects did not develop mouth ulcers, most of which were small and superficial and resolved within a few weeks. Two patients have had episodes of recurrent nausea and vomiting requiring intravenous hydration. Acne occurred in two subjects and arthralgias in one, and one patient has developed rheumatoid arthritis. Ten patients have had problems with diarrhea posttransplant, but the bowel problems have generally subsided with time. Eight patients developed anemia to a hemoglobin level of <100 g/l. Two of these patients had a rise in serum creatinine, two were subjects who had bleeding posttransplant, one had an ileal ulcer, one had transient colitis, and in two the finding was unexplained. The mean hemoglobin level for the group of 17 fell from 140 ± 4 g/l pretransplant to the most recent level of 123 ± 4 g/l posttransplant (P < 0.001). The white blood cell (WBC) count also fell from a pretransplant level of 6.2 ± 0.3 × 109/l to the most recent posttransplant level of 4.9 ± 0.3 × 109/l (P = 0.002). In four subjects, the WBC fell below 2.5 × 109/l (for at least two consecutive readings), and in two subjects the WBC fell below 2.0 × 109/l; granulocyte colony-stimulating factor was used in two patients briefly. This problem may have been related to high levels of sirolimus. The platelet count did not change significantly after transplantation. All patients currently have negative panel-reactive antibodies. Most patients lost weight: pretransplant 70.3 ± 2.3 kg versus posttransplant 65.4 ± 2.3 kg (P < 0.001).
Diabetes complications.
Three patients have had progression of their retinopathy so as to require laser photocoagulation. The mean serum creatinine for the 17 subjects rose slightly from 89 ± 8 pretransplant to 104 ± 14 μmol/l posttransplant (P = 0.047) and, excluding the two patients who had serious deterioration in renal function, there was no difference pre- and posttransplant (79 ± 5 vs. 85 ± 16 μmol/l, respectively; P = 0.117). Urine protein was unchanged in 15 of 17 subjects (excluding the two with a significant rise in serum creatinine), 0.2 (CI, 0.1–0.3) pretransplant versus the most recent posttransplant value 0.2 g/day (CI, 0.1–0.4) (P = 0.492), and creatinine clearance was unchanged pre- and posttransplant (1.68 ± 0.08 vs. 1.62 ± 0.13 ml · s–1 · 1.73 M2, respectively; P = 0.195). Four patients were hypertensive pretransplant, and 10 had a rise of blood pressure posttransplant, such that a total of 9 either started or increased antihypertensive therapy. No dramatic changes have been seen in neuropathy. Anecdotally, two patients with severe neuropathic pain, both off insulin with a duration of insulin independence of 30 and 20 months, have had no change in their pain. Cholesterol rose in 15 of 17 subjects, and in 4 it has dropped again on diet therapy. In the 11 subjects who are on statin therapy, the median cholesterol is 4.8 mmol/l (CI, 4.4–5.2), not significantly different from baseline in these subjects, 4.7 mmol/l (CI, 4.5–5.1), but the maximum cholesterol in these subjects was 6.1 ± 0.2 mmol/l. Triglyceride levels did not change, and the total-to-HDL cholesterol ratio for the entire group pretransplant was 3.2 ± 0.2 and reached a maximum level of 4.6 ± 0.3 (P < 0.001), but once treated the group ratio was 3.3 ± 0.1. One patient with preexisting coronary artery disease has been stable but has required further angioplasty. No cases of posttransplant lymphoproliferative disease have occurred, and in none of the 12 CMV mismatches (i.e., donor positive, recipient negative for CMV) has there been any occurrence of CMV. There have been no deaths.
Transplant details and metabolic outcomes.
The median interval between the first and second transplant was 29 days (CI, 21–54). All of the 17 subjects required at least two transplant procedures, and 4 required three procedures. In two instances, two pancreata were used for a single infusion (both pancreases became available simultaneously). The mean number of islet equivalents (IE) for the first and second transplants were 374,283 ± 20,247 and 391,647 ± 32,921, respectively; the total delivered islet mass was 850,035 ± 37,911 IE per patient (including the four patients who had three islet infusions). The mean numbers of IE/kg for the first and second transplants were 5,442 ± 327 and 5,678 ± 487, respectively, for a total of 12,330 ± 581 IE/kg provided. For the 17 patients who became insulin independent with the Edmonton protocol, the minimum number of islets required for insulin independence appears to be 9,000 IE/kg (Fig. 3). The subject with >12,000 IE/kg who was not insulin independent likely lost islets from a thrombosis of a peripheral branch of the portal vein. Two patients who resumed insulin therapy have had a supplemental infusion of islets but remain on exogenous insulin (one of these supplemental infusions resulted in the partial portal thrombus and hepatic bleed on subsequent anticoagulation).
As can be seen in Figs. 4A and B, measures of insulin secretion after intravenous glucose were reduced but clearly maintained in the subjects who remained insulin independent to 24 months. In a subanalysis of the four followed for 24 months, there were no significant changes in these parameters. Only one subject has been studied at 30 months, and his islet function is stable (insulin independent; HbA1c 5.7%). In addition, AUCC-p, KG, and insulin sensitivity HOMA did not change significantly over the follow-up period. In particular, the five patients with persisting C-peptide secretion who have had to resume either oral hypoglycemic agents or insulin therapy did not have a lower HOMA value than the remaining nine with persistent C-peptide secretion. The AIRg appears proportionately better after the second transplant than after the first transplant (Table 1), but this may reflect the limits of the test. The AIRarg was also significantly less than that of control subjects even after the final transplant (Table 1).
In control subjects, the AIRg and AIRarg did not correlate significantly with each other (r = 0.613, P = 0.059), whereas the AUCi did correlate significantly with AIRg (r = 0.9, P < 0.001). In the transplanted patients, this association of AIRg and AUCi held (r = 0.901, P < 0.001), but the correlation between AIRg and AIRarg was not nearly as strong (r = 0.294, P = 0.288). All the measures of insulin reserve correlated with the islet mass transplanted (Fig. 5 A and B; Table 2). The AIRarg showed a stronger correlation, but we have smaller numbers in this group and the level of significance is similar with all measures of function. Interestingly, the correlation with islet mass was stronger for the studies at 3 months than those at 1 month (data not shown), and the correlation was stronger when cold ischemia time was considered (Table 2). The relationship of these measures of insulin secretion and glycemic control were also determined. Insulin responses to intravenous glucose were more strongly correlated than insulin response after arginine, with both fasting plasma glucose and 2-h glucose after oral glucose load (Figs. 6A and B; Table 3). The 90-min glucose post-Ensure was related to the AIRg (n = 60, r = −0.593, P < 0.001) and AIRarg (n = 21, r = −0.697, P < 0.001), as were AUCi, AUCC-p, and KG. The 90-min glucose post-Ensure was significantly related to the 2-h glucose post-OGTT (r = 0.718, P < 0.001) in the posttransplant subjects. Finally, on long-term follow-up, the AUCi within 3 months of transplantation in the three subjects who lost C-peptide production was significantly lower than those who remained off insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents (94 ± 17 vs. 299 ± 38 μU · ml-1 · min-1; P < 0.05).
Our results show that as a therapy for subjects with unstable, labile diabetes or severe problems with hypoglycemia, islet transplantation can achieve consistent glucose values and alleviate these problems. Even in the six subjects who resumed insulin therapy, the three who have clearly present C-peptide have stable glucose levels and are using about one-half the pretransplant dose of insulin. Thus, for the majority of patients with major problems of hypoglycemia or lability, the islet transplant procedure can provide an excellent solution.
The risks involved primarily relate to the procedure itself and the drugs used for immunosuppression. The procedure was associated with a 10% chance of bleeding and a 4% chance of some thrombus within the portal venous circulation. In only one case was bleeding a major concern, the patient who had hemorrhage while on anticoagulation for a partial portal vein thrombosis. Moderate abdominal pain occurred in ∼20% of the subjects and settled readily. With a median hospital stay of 1 day and only one serious complication after 54 procedures, the overall safety profile of the percutaneous approach is acceptable. Other approaches such as using computed tomography guidance for percutaneous access (11), approaches by the transjugular route, or laparotomy could be considered as viable alternatives but would likely take longer, and the latter may be associated with further delay in recovery or potential long-term risk of adhesion formation. The rise in LFT results has become more frequent compared with our original findings without any obvious cause. Reassuringly, all the elevations in liver enzymes have resolved with time.
The only serious immunosuppression-related complication in the 17 patients to date has been a rise in the creatinine in 2 subjects with known preexisting renal impairment. This level of renal dysfunction is stable with the discontinuation of the potentially nephrotoxic tacrolimus (12). The previous rise in urine protein (4) has now stabilized on longer-term follow up. These findings prompted changes in the protocol so that tacrolimus levels in the lower range of the target level of 3–5 ng/ml are accepted and hypertension is more aggressively treated. If blood pressure is consistently >135/85 mmHg, antihypertensive therapy is initiated and a target level of <125/75 mmHg on therapy is sought. With these targets, we have had to use or increase antihypertensive therapy in 53% of subjects. Of the 17 patients, 3 have required laser photocoagulation. This is of concern, and it is likely that the acute stabilization of glucose control is contributing (13,14). These results demonstrate the need for confirmation of stable eye disease pretransplant and monitoring for retinopathy posttransplant. It is too early to comment on neuropathy, but no dramatic changes have been noted. A concern is the degree to which hypercholesterolemia is being encountered. The rise in cholesterol is associated with a rise in the HDL so that the total to HDL cholesterol ratio is not grossly elevated, but we believe that this hypercholesterolemia warrants aggressive therapy given the history of unstable diabetes in the subjects. All have responded well to statin therapy when required, but the implications of this for the vasculature are unknown and merit close observation. Interestingly, hypertriglyceridemia has not been a problem, although it is common in other transplant immunosuppressive regimens (15); the absence of glucocorticoids with the regimen used in our patients may be the difference. Significant anemia was seen in eight patients and although explainable in most cases (renal or gastrointestinal disease), in other cases it most likely reflects a side effect of the medications. The WBC has also fallen, and in two subjects granulocyte colony-stimulating factor was used temporarily, but no serious infections have occurred. No posttransplant lymphoproliferative disorder has been encountered, and no CMV infection occurred despite a significant number of mismatches. It may be that in the islet preparation there are few contaminating leukocytes, making CMV infection less likely.
Most patients lose weight over time after the islet transplant procedure. No specific diet plan is prescribed other than eating healthily; in particular, the timing of meals is not specified. Although the frequent occurrence of mouth ulcers may be contributing to weight loss, these are usually transient and resolve as sirolimus levels stabilize. The occurrence of diarrhea may also be contributing, but even this is not as much of a problem as previously. Finally, once hypoglycemia is no longer a problem, the subjects are likely not eating as much to treat low glucose values.
For the patient with labile diabetes or recurrent hypoglyemia, the results continue to be excellent. Even for those who are now using insulin again, glucose values are more stable than pretransplant, and in only three subjects has complete C-peptide secretion been lost. The more stringent criteria of the OGTT confirmed problems with islet mass and/or function. Although only two patients meet the criteria for normal glucose tolerance with OGTT, the remainder with continuing C-peptide secretion have stable glucose control and do not have problems with hypoglycemia. In general, patients still feel that they are much better off with stable posttransplant diabetes than with the labile type 1 diabetes they had pretransplant. Two of the three who have lost C-peptide secretion appear to have had a recurrence of autoimmunity, as others have found (16). The other three subjects on insulin have persisting fasting C-peptide levels not different from those when they were insulin independent, yet their HbA1c has risen. Why these individuals required insulin therapy is not clear. The acute insulin response to glucose was low from the time of transplant in these subjects. Whether the need for insulin simply reflects borderline islet mass that is failing over time or some insulin resistance induced by the tacrolimus or is a direct effect of the immunosuppressive drugs on islet function is unknown (17–19). We have considered supplemental islet infusions and will proceed cautiously with them in the absence of a recurrence of autoimmunity. In the presence of a raised titer of GAD or ICA antibodies, it would appear prudent to accept that the current immunosuppressive regimen may be inadequate and alternative regimens would be required for these subjects. Finally, in terms of glucose control, it is of interest that the C-peptide response to the mixed meal challenge was normal, albeit with a higher glucose level, yet the response to intravenous glucose was blunted. Perhaps the incretin response is more marked in this setting to account for the better C-peptide response to the oral challenge. The higher glucose level than the control subjects with equivalent C-peptides may be indicative of insulin resistance, other subtle metabolic derangements (20), or the venous drainage of the islets (whether portal or systemic), an issue yet to be resolved.
It continues to appear that an absolute minimum of 9,000 IE/kg is required for insulin independence in the absence of steroids (Fig. 3). The lack of previous long-term success with islet transplantation (21,22) was likely related to the presence of glucocorticoids combined with inadequate prophylaxis of rejection and autoimmune events. However, in the current study, each subject had an average of 850,000 islets transplanted; the nondiabetic pancreas is believed to have 1.0–1.7 × 106 islets (23,24). Thus the poor acute insulin response to the IVGTT we documented might suggest either loss of islets or poor β-cell function. Assessing β-cell mass has been difficult in this setting and yet is of importance. Many measures of insulin reserve are available. Although insulin independence is the most important end point, it has to be tempered with coexisting good glycemic control. Islet function can be severely impaired with the subject still insulin independent; thus the need for more detailed measures. Suggested tests of insulin secretion have included AIRg, AIRarg, AUCi, insulin response to glucagon, and glucose-potentiated response to arginine (25). We believe that any tests should be considered in the light of four issues: are they equivalent, do they correlate to islet mass, do they relate to glycemic control, and can they predict future function of the graft.
Both glucose and arginine have been used as acute stimuli of insulin secretion. A bolus of glucose stimulates insulin release by increasing intracellular ATP, leading to closure of islet potassium channels, influx of calcium, and insulin secretion. Arginine, a cationic amino acid, can directly lead to depolarization of the β-cell, calcium influx, and insulin release. The response to arginine is increased when hyperglycemia is present (26). Our results show that whereas AIRg and AUCi were closely related, there was no significant relationship of AIRg and AIRarg in control subjects or study subjects. Thus whereas both stimulate insulin release, they are not measuring the same mechanisms. The differential response to these secretagogues is also evident in early type 1 and 2 diabetes, where AIRarg is typically preserved after AIRg is lost (27–29). All the parameters used gave a measure of islet mass. The correlation coefficient was higher for AIRarg and islet mass than for AIRg or AUCi. Detailed assessments in streptozotocin-treated baboons, which had in vivo measures of insulin reserve that were then correlated with in vitro anatomical determinations of islet mass or direct measures of pancreatic insulin content, have indicated that AIRg correlates more closely with pancreatic insulin content than AIRarg (30). In that study, AIRg was linearly correlated (r = 0.92) with pancreatic insulin content, and the regression line passed through zero. Interestingly, islet mass was still detectable when insulin reserve in vivo was completely depleted. The correlation of AIRg with β-cell mass, although linear, had a y intercept of 0.2 g/pancreas, indicating that at a negligible AIRg there was no insulin reserve but there was persisting islet mass (30). AIRarg and glucose-potentiated arginine-stimulated insulin release did not correlate as well as AIRg with either insulin reserve or islet mass. Tobin et al. (31), using a rodent islet transplant model of known islet mass, likewise found that AIRg was the better correlate with islet mass. Our results appear to be following a slightly different pattern. With the first transplant procedure, we have provided a reasonable islet mass, adequate to reduce exogenous insulin requirements and stabilize glycemic control but with a poor AIRg (Table 1). When the second transplant is provided, AIRg appears to improve disproportionately, although it still remains reduced compared with that of control subjects. AIRarg appears independent of this and thus may provide the better measure of islet mass posttransplant. In addition, if nondiabetic subjects have closer to 1.7 × 106 rather than 1.0 × 106 islets (23,24), then the results for AIRarg as a percentage of control (Table 1) are consistent with this proposition.
Our results indicate that the insulin response to glucose correlates better with the measures of glycemia we used (fasting plasma glucose and glucose level at 2 h during the OGTT) than AIRarg and provides a better composite measure of islet mass and function. Finally, when we examined the dynamic tests in light of the final outcome of C-peptide production, the responses to intravenous glucose were lower in those whose islets eventually failed, but there were too few AIRarg studies available to assess this parameter. It is clear that an improved measure of islet mass and/or function is needed for evaluating these patients. It needs to be determined whether proinsulin determinations will permit detection of islets that are beginning to fail (32). The glucose-potentiated arginine stimulation test may help, but the possibility of imaging islets is more exciting as a measure of mass (33). In the meantime, 90-min post-Ensure glucose is a simple and helpful test for following these patients in the long term. Many of our patients have problems with the palatability of the Ensure, and some other standard meal test would be of benefit. Of the more invasive tests, AIRg and AUCi derived from an IVGTT appear to give the most information and correlate better with function and long-term outcome; AIRarg may be a better measure of islet mass.
In conclusion, our results show that continued insulin independence for up to 2 3/4 years is possible after islet transplantation. The glucose values are stable in 14 of 17 transplanted subjects, and at 1 year, 80% of patients were insulin independent, as were 4 of 6 subjects >2 years after their initial transplant, a major improvement over previous results (21,22). There are acute risks of the procedure and risks associated with the immunosuppressive drugs, demonstrating the need for further improvement. The insulin reserve is not normal but adequate to correct the problems with glycemia. Thus for many subjects who have very labile diabetes and severe problems with hypoglycemia, the risks are worth the outcome; careful patient selection remains essential to maximize the risk-benefit ratio for any individual patient as islet transplantation becomes more widespread.
A: HbA1c at 3-month intervals after islet transplantation in subjects who remained insulin independent (n = 11). Each line represents an individual subject. B: Plasma glucose levels derived from standard meal tolerance tests in control subjects (n = 10) and patients before and after islet transplantation who have remained insulin independent (n = 11). Values are means ± SE. C: Plasma C-peptide levels derived from standard meal tolerance tests in control subjects (n = 10) and patients before and after islet transplantation who have remained insulin independent (n = 11). Values are means ± SE. Levels pretransplant were below detectability of the assay.
Fasting plasma C-peptide levels during the first 4 weeks (top panel) and at 3-month intervals for the full duration of follow-up (lower panel) in the 11 patients who remained insulin independent. Shown also are the values pretransplant (pre-Tx) and after the first transplant (mid). Values are means ± SE.
Exogenous insulin use (units/kg) in relation to the number of islets transplanted (IE/kg). Values for pretransplant (•), after first transplant (□), after second transplant (⧫), and after the third procedure (○) are shown. All patients became insulin independent once adequate islet numbers were provided.
AIRg (A) and AUCi (B) over time in insulin-independent subjects (n = 11) before and after islet transplantation as derived from the IVGTT. The number of subjects studied is shown across the top of the figure. Mean values ± SE are provided for each time point. Values for all time periods up to 24 months are significantly different from those of control subjects.
A: Relationship of the number of islets transplanted and AIRarg as derived from intravenous arginine infusion test at midtransplant (n = 6) and 3 months (n = 3) after transplant. B: Relationship of AUCi and the number of islets transplanted as derived from IVGTT at midtransplant (n = 13) and 3 months (n = 13) after transplant.
A: Relationship of AIRg as derived from IVGTT and fasting plasma glucose in subjects after islet transplant who were not taking exogenous insulin. B: Relationship of AIRg as derived from IVGTT and 2-h plasma glucose during the OGTT in subjects after islet transplant who were not taking exogenous insulin.
Measures of insulin secretion after the first and final transplant
Relationship of both IE transplanted and the cold ischemic index with measures of insulin secretion and glucose disposal
Relationship of glycemia (fasting plasma glucose and the 2-h glucose during the OGTT) with measures of insulin secretion and glucose disposal
This work has been supported by funds from Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation International, the Alberta Foundation for Diabetes Research, a generous donation from the Roberts family, a grant from the Canadian Institute for Health Research, the Alberta Health Services Innovation Fund, and institutional support by the University of Alberta Hospitals, University of Alberta Capital Health Authority, and the Muttart Diabetes Research and Training Center. A.M.J.S. is a Clinical Investigator of the Alberta Heritage Foundation for Medical Research, and J.R.T.L. and G.S.K. are recipients of scholarships from the Canadian Diabetes Association and the Alberta Heritage Foundation for Medical Research. G.S.K. received a Career Development Award from the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation International. N.M.K. is a senior scholar of the Alberta Heritage Foundation for Medical Research.
We thank the staff of the Clinical Investigation Unit, the nurse coordinators: Ingrid Larsen, Tracy Davyduke, Sheri Newitt, Lana Toth, and Cindy Yarmuch. We are grateful for the technical help of Deborah McGee-Wilson, Tatsuya Kin, Doug O’Gorman, Richard Wilson, Jose Avila, and Toshi Tsujimura for their expertise in the Human Islet Isolation Laboratory; to our colleagues in the Division of Vascular and Interventional Radiology for their expert assistance with the portal vein cannulation; to our colleagues in the organ procurement programs in Alberta and across Canada for identifying cadaveric donors; to the Human Organ Procurement and Exchange Program of Northern Alberta; to Jean Der and staff in the laboratory of the University of Alberta Hospitals for help with assays; to Louise Bohachyk for secretarial assistance; to Jonathan Levy, Radcliffe Infirmary, Oxford, U.K., for providing the HOMA disk program; and to George Eisenbarth, Barbara Davis Diabetes Center, Denver, CO, for the ICA and GAD determinations. We acknowledge support from Roche Canada, Wyeth-Ayerst Canada, and Fujisawa Canada for the kind gifts of daclizumab, sirolimus, and tacrolimus, respectively.
Address correspondence and reprint requests to Edmond A. Ryan, Clinical Islet Transplant Program, 2000 College Plaza, 8215 112th St., Edmonton, AB, Canada T6G 2C8. E-mail: edmond.ryan{at}ualberta.ca.
Received for publication 11 February 2002 and accepted in revised form 4 April 2002.
N.M.K. served as a consultant for Wyeth on structuring clinical trials with Sirolimus in liver transplantation.
AIRarg, acute insulin response to arginine; AIRg, acute insulin response to glucose; AUC, area under the curve; AUCC-p, area under the curve for C-peptide; AUCi, area under the curve for insulin; CBC, complete blood count; CMV, cytomegalovirus; GAD, glutamic acid decarboxylase; HOMA, homeostasis model assessment; ICA, islet cell antigen; IE, islet equivalents; IVGTT, intravenous glucose tolerance test; KG, glucose disposal; LFT, liver function test; MAGE, mean amplitude of glycemic excursion; OGTT, oral glucose tolerance test; PTLD, posttransplant lymphoproliferative disorder; WBC, white blood cell count.
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Davalli AM, Maffi P, Socci C, Sanvito F, Preshci M, Bertuzzi F, Falqui L, Di Carlo V, Pozza G, Secchi A: Insights from a successful case of intrahepatic islet transplantation into a type 1 diabetic patient. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 85:3847–3852, 2000
Moore A, Bonner-Weir S, Weissleder R: Noninvasive in vivo measurements of β-cell mass in mouse model of diabetes. Diabetes 50:2231–2236, 2001
July 2002, 51(7)
You are going to email the following Successful Islet Transplantation
Edmond A. Ryan, Jonathan R.T. Lakey, Breay W. Paty, Sharleen Imes, Gregory S. Korbutt, Norman M. Kneteman, David Bigam, Ray V. Rajotte, A.M. James Shapiro
Diabetes Jul 2002, 51 (7) 2148-2157; DOI: 10.2337/diabetes.51.7.2148
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Electric Ghost Magazine
BFI LFF Review
A haunting, absurdist work of art from Andrey Zvyagintsev
Post author By Teodosia Dobriyanova
Post date 7 October 2017
Loveless / Nelyubov / Нелюбовь (Andrey Zvaygintsev, 2017), Altitude Film Entertainment, Russia, DCP, 128 minutes, (Boris leksey Rozin)
Teodosia Dobriyanova on Andrey Zvaygintsev’s ‘Loveless’ (2017)
IN THE MIDST OF PICTURESQUE URBAN woods during the Russian winter, a young boy finds a piece of abandoned police tape beside the log of a tree. After fondling it for a while, the boy throws the tape upwards in the air, whereupon it gets stuck between tree branches. Cinematographer Mikhail Krichman’s camera zooms into a distant building in the background, targeting a single window. On the other side of the glass is a young boy named Alyosha (Matbey Novikov), blankly contemplating the outside world that the camera had just departed. Suddenly, his mother Zhenya (Mariana Spivak) enters and Alyosha, as children do, pretends to read his book. With a voice devoid of motherly affection, she tells her son to tidy his room, as people are coming to view the apartment. It turns out, the family is going through a divorce, the home is for sale. Such is the opening of Andrey Zvyagintsev’s latest work, Loveless, a story about the departure of love from a modern family destroyed in its absence.
During a prolonged first act, the film establishes its loveless universe. Feeling nothing but growing abhorrence for her husband, Zhenya prefers to indulge in hedonistic pleasures over spending time at home—treatments in the beauty salon and romantic dinners with her new, charming, older boyfriend. Even when she is physically present, her thoughts are with her phone, scrolling purposelessly through her social media feed. The constant absence of the husband, Boris (Alexey Rozin), during this first act speaks volumes regarding his engagement in the family. It even seems a plausible scenario that the divorce was triggered by the appearance of Boris’ young, new girlfriend in the last stages of her pregnancy with his child.,
Aloysha seems to be the last concern of his parents. It all escalates one evening when Zhenya and Boris begin a vicious fight, each of them blaming the other for their ruined lives. Words of regret for not aborting Aloysha sound before Zhenya leaves the room to go the bathroom, with the camera following her for seemingly no reason. Then she leaves, but the camera remains, revealing little Aloysha hidden and crying behind the bathroom door. This devastating scene marks the end of the first act. The next day, Alyosha disappears.
At this rupture, Loveless begins to dissect the psycho-sociological reasons behind Alyosha’s disappearance. Meanwhile, his parents continue to express regret for his existence whilst, paradoxically, taking to the the road to look for him, devastated by his disappearance and battling each other and the resource-lacking bureaucracy. We begin to peep into Zhenya’s psyche too, her perspective on life influenced by a hostile mother. Zvyagintsev’s film is an exploration in the darkest corners of contemporary Russian society; torn between the conservative roots of the country where Orthodox religion dictates societal values and the Capitalist values of the West, Zvyagintsev re-iterates the philosophical questions that have burdened him throughout his career – is there an authenticity to the human character that remains immune to societal influences, or are we all consequences of the socio-economical reality that surrounds us?
Even if it seems that the film leaves the realm of realism, ‘Loveless’ always remains deeply grounded in it, delivering sociological examinations to every nonsensical situation. For example, while having lunch with one of his co-workers inside their modernist office building, Boris commences a bizarre conversation “What happens if someone working for their company divorces?” Why should anything happen? The whole scene enfolds in the manner of a Lanthimosean absurdist dystopia, having us thinking that Zvyagintsev’s new film will contain such surreal elements. Then, we get an explanation: Boris’ boss is a fanatical Orthodox Christian who believes in domestic patriarchal values and only values “family people” in his company. The realism of Loveless contains all sorts of common absurdities that citizens of contemporary Russia are no strangers of. The characters are defined by either a conservative past or a soulless future.
An overpowering postmodern soundtrack composed by Evgueni and Sacha Galperine contributes to the omnipresent darkness, but also positions the film in a contemporary context. This, together with an exquisite cinematography and use of faded colour palettes in the set design, contribute to the moody work of art that Loveless is.
As it seems to be a tradition in Zvyagintsev’s filmography, after the human story has been told, Loveless leaves us where it started, within nature—changing but unchanged. Seasons have circulated a few times and we are again at winter, but the magnificent trees and the cold snow remain indifferent to anything that happens. This acknowledgement of nature’s indifference is interesting to consider, bearing in mind the frequent critiques of religion often found in Zvyagintev’s work. A devastating exploration of humanity’s fallibility, Loveless is a haunting work of art demonstrating that both living in the past and denying its existence has the potential to be equally destructive.
Tags Aleksey Rozin, Andrey Zvyagintsev, Author: Teodosia Dobriyanova, Maryana Spivak
By Teodosia Dobriyanova
Teodosia Dobriyanova is a writer, programmer, and documentary filmmaker based in London. She graduated in Film Studies (BA) from King’s College London (BA) and Ethnographic and Documentary Film (MA) from University College London. She has written for Dirty Movies, Filmotomy, and New East Cinema.
← GAGA: FIVE FOOT TWO → LAST FLAG FLYING
Electric Ghost Magazine (est. 2016) is an international online film publication committed to heterodox opinion on transformative cinema.
Please direct enquiries to editor@electricghost.co.uk
© 2021 Electric Ghost Magazine
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Home / CAE Reading and Use of English Practice Tests / CAE Reading and Use of English Practice Test 9 / Page 6
CAE Reading and Use of English Practice Test 9
CAE Reading and Use of English Part 6
You are going to read four extracts from online articles about sports psychology. For questions 37-40, choose from the reviews A-D. The extracts may be chosen more than once.
Sports psychology: a valid discipline?
A Dorothy Common
Is the ever growing discipline of sports psychology contributing effectively to sporting performance or is it, as many people think, “simply the art of stating the blindingly obvious”? I have certainly seen evidence that those in journalistic circles are yet to be fully convinced. And it is certainly true that sport psychologists should strive to increase the sophistication of their approaches to research, making use of more reliable scientific methods. Yet it’s a shame that people should be so sceptical. Essentially, sports psychology asks this simple question: considering the undeniable role mental life plays in deciding the outcomes of our sporting efforts, why is mental training not incorporated to the equivalent degree into the athlete’s typical training? If, say, a track sprinter is susceptible to letting their head get the better of them (temper issues, nerves, anxiety), then why should they spend their training just working on their strengths (the physical side)?
В Jahangir Khan
There is a popular view, largely based on a well-known case with a prominent runner, that sports psychology is something for treating athletes with mental disorders. This has no basis in fact and stems from making assumptions based on a limited understanding of psychology and how it is used in applied settings. In my area of particular expertise, football, rugby and hockey, there exists a culture of what one psychologist calls ‘folk psychology’. That is, there are usually individuals (typically an older dominant coach) who communicate non-scientific words of wisdom which, consciously or unconsciously, affect everyone, usually to detrimental
effect in the long run. Think of a young player who is told to ‘dig deep’ and give it ‘110%’ consistently. This gives a mental aspect to training that is non-scientific and misguided. But this is in stark contrast to the reality of modern day psychology research, which is based upon rigorous scientific methodologies.
C Brian D. Rossweller
Research into sports psychology is increasingly evidence-based, using the gold standard methodology of randomised control group designs . Nevertheless, using the term ‘psychology’ in relation to psychological efforts with athletes, especially those involved in team sports, can be both an asset and a hindrance to understanding the field. Psychology as a field has become much more acceptable in social life. It seems that every time a person flicks through the television channels they are likely to see a psychologist talking about something or other. Thus people tend to view psychologists, including those seen on sports programmes, as knowledgeable and as providing information useful to everyday life. However, the flip side is that most people know someone who sees a clinical psychologist or therapist for a mind-related problem. In our society there has been a stigma attached to such problems and so many people have attached negative connotations to seeing a psychologist and may misunderstand the nature of seeing a sports psychologist.
D Xiu Li
There is still some distance between research and coaching practice. Sports psychology has been able to develop a relatively significant research base in the last fifteen years; aided by general experimental researchers often using athletes as an easily identifiable and obtainable population. Yet, as a practising sports psychologist I recently observed an athletics coach, whose reaction to a promising middle-distance runner losing a winning position on the last lap was to prioritise developing a sprint finish. What he didn’t address was the fact that the runner failed to focus whenever he got overtaken. Then again, I also witnessed some baseball coaches doing some work – which I would have been proud of in my professional capacity – on assessing and profiling strengths and weaknesses, and also on performance anxiety. So things vary, and some trainers are clearly more knowledgeable than others. But it is not surprising that, as a result, public conceptions are confused on the issue.
Which expert …
37 shares Khan’s opinion on why public misconceptions about sports psychology have occurred? ABCD
38 has a different view from Khan on whether some psychological training used in team sports is helpful to the players? ABCD
39 has a different view from Rossweller on how the media regard sports psychologists? ABCD
40 has a different opinion from the other three experts on the current state of research in sports psychology? ABCD
For this task: Answers with explanations :: Vocabulary
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Body language experts tell us that photos of couples offer up myriad clues as to the state of their relationship, even more when they’re caught unawares. The idea is that we all emit ‘tells’ which give away our secrets, and that anyone skilled in the dark arts of decoding this particular branch of semiotics can read us like the words on a page. I don’t have those skills. While I wouldn’t bet my house on anything a ‘body language expert’ might say, it’s still interesting that this pseudo-science remains neither verified nor disproved. It persists in the realm of things that might sorta-maybe-kinda be true. Like god, and UFO’s.
Speaking of gods, Barack Obama and Michelle Obama sit at the top of the tree for skilled exponents of the body-language game. These guys have some moves. Consistently, they send out the message that they are very much in love. Always in sync, there’s a lot of apparently spontaneous touching, public displays of affection, deep eye gazing, body mirroring, which can all be faked of course. Especially the hand-kissing. They lay that on a bit thick.
But not even the Obamas can keep their game-face on 24/7. Sometimes they let the mask slip and the reality of crushing schedules and personal sacrifices, of a powerful and ambitious woman playing second fiddle to a man she adores but also, maybe, sometimes resents, slips through. Especially when she’s not being constantly validated as the hottest woman in the room by the most powerful man on Earth. But I’ll get to the Danish vixen Helle Thorning-Schmidt in a moment.
Next we have Xi Jinping, the General Secretary of the Community Party of China, and his vivacious wife Peng Liyuan, a former folk-singer whose charm offensive extends to everybody except her husband. I’ve reviewed hundreds of photos: no shared eye contact, no hand-holding, no kisses either staged or spontaneous. Maybe it’s a cultural thing, but if a man and woman like each other, it shows. Here, it doesn’t. She is like a dutiful employee, a proud foot soldier of the Communist cause, the stylish smiling face of Chinese ‘soft power’ abroad.
Vladimir Putin and Lyudmila Putina, now divorced, were married for 31 years until he dumped her for a 31 year old gymnast with a monobrow. He loved Lyudmila, I think, when he was a hungry young nobody. But then he became a somebody and started putin it into other women willy-nilly to prove his enduring masculinity, it all fell apart. But for many years the photos showed them drifting sideways, evidenced his roving eye, her smile becoming tired and fake. For a long time, they were happy as only a couple who’ve shared the best years of their lives can be. She’s still looking for him in this picture, but he doesn’t want to look at her anymore, he’s looking elsewhere. It’s sad.
A totally different pair, Bashar al-Asaad the President of Syria and his wife Asma (described as the First Lady of Hell) are monsters. Carefully posed photos aside, this weak-chinned war-criminal somehow snagged a beautiful, posh-talking Londoner who pretends at compassion yet goes on shopping sprees while her poverty-stricken subjects are being cluster-bombed by her husband. In a way, their photos are perfect. He looks like an insincere, insecure crybaby, the wimpy kid who got bullied and came back for revenge. She’s not invested in any of it. Never a hair out of place, immaculately groomed, she’s there purely for the bling. I’m sure she dominates the shit out of him at home. Back at the palace it would be all femdom whips and high heels, diapers and harsh spankings. He’s got that sort of head on him, and so has she.
Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada, and his wife Sophie Grégoire can do no wrong. He comes across as the ants pants of world politics, an energetic young progressive, and she is his stunningly attractive and very much in love young wife. But both seem very posed, a byproduct of a public life I guess, as if they studied ‘relationships’ at university. She seems to dote on him more than he does her. Both are supremely conceited about their looks, but they’re hard not to like. They seem genuine, lots of touching, flirting, eye contact — but why so many photos of her pulling him towards her for affection, as if he is resisting? Dude, you’re an idiot!
Okay, so who the hell are Giorgi Margvelashvili and Maka Chichi? He’s a former chess champion, academic, and current President of Georgia, and she’s his not-really qualified at anything second wife. I like this couple. He looks like a busted-nose bouncer from some underground strip-club in Moscow, when in fact he’s a bilingual intellectual who loves knitting. She looks like a bimbo, when in fact she’s ah, … a bimbo! Just this once, who cares. Lots of hand holding, incidental touching, leaning in to share each other’s personal space, heaps of deep eye contact. He knows he’s punching above his weight in the looks department, and he’s delighted. Every photo screams happy to me.
Our next contestants are about to get some major heat. Enrique Peña Nieto is the President of Mexico, and Angelica Rivera (filthy rich entrepreneur and former soap-opera actor) as the First Lady make for a very photogenic couple. And don’t they know it. But they are smitten, love their respective public roles, and dazzle in the limelight. Nieto will shine in his showdown with Trump, and Angelica’s political capital will soar as his #1 staunch (and stylish) supporter. He needs it, because he has a bad-boy image to bury, hence (maybe) the very public displays of affection. These guys are all over each other, all the time. But they are media savvy too, and Trump hasn’t applied the blowtorch to Nieto’s belly yet either.
Did anybody know that Kim Jong-un is married? Apparently the lucky lady is called Ri Sol-ju. His consort never gets closer than half a metre to the Supreme Leader of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea; there’s no touching, no intimacy. I’ve looked at tons of pics, and the pair don’t even look at each other. I suspect that their ‘marriage’ is bogus, to finally put to rest those rumours that Kim Jong-un is actually unicorning his younger sister, the sinister Kim Yeo Jong, who’s said to be behind some of Kim’s nastier executions (burning people alive with flame throwers, shooting them with anti-aircraft guns, etc). It’s hard to examine photos of Kim and Ri together, because seven months ago Ri disappeared and hasn’t been see since.
Much better relationship-ambassadors are Britain’s new PM Theresa May and husband Philip, a terrific couple with plenty of miles on the clock, always relaxed and comfortable in each other’s company, with no suggestion of any rivalry or simmering resentment. Their pictures exude warmth and trust, mutual respect and admiration of each other. You feel happy for them. Lots of photos, quite a few of them snapped privately, reveal a power-couple leading successful careers with plenty of energy and hope for the future. They are a feel-good pair with no real dirt or scandal attaching to them, unlike some of our subjects.
Angela Merkel and Joachim Sauer are an interesting pair. Without a doubt, Sauer plays second fiddle in public. He comes across as insecure, stiff and uncomfortable, deferential, unsure, a real beta-male. But in private photos (and there are many) there’s a 180 degree reversal. Maybe that’s what Ange, the world’s most powerful woman, wants when she’s at home? By all accounts, he’s a (professor of theoretical chemistry) smart bloke who happens to be extremely private, strong-willed and disciplined enough not to be drawn into the media whirlwind. I suspect he’s an introvert too, so he gets my vote. Solid couple. He’s always looking at her with admiration and pride.
Now we come to the saucy Viking at the business end of Michelle Obama’s death-glares: Helle Thorning-Schmidt, Prime Minister (until recently) of Denmark, married to Stephen Pinnock. While it lasted, she was all the power and all the glory. His sole claim to fame was that he’s a skinny-younger-brother lookalike for Vladimir Putin. in 2015 came an interesting role reversal: he’s now a British MP and she’s retired from politics, with far fewer photos of them in the present situation. This is mainly, I think, because Pinnock is a bit dull. I haven’t seen a single picture suggesting Helle disagrees with this assessment. I think Helle baited her hook for bigger fish, and received more than one nibble.
Lastly, and perhaps irrelevantly, Donald and Melania Trump. I won’t rehash the body language experts, frothing at the mouth over the way she draws away from any contact with him, her fake smile, his arrogant dismissiveness. I have no doubt that the loathing and boredom you see in her expression is genuine, but it’s hard to tell with all those injections paralysing her face. What I do see is an absence of any warmth between them. Look of love? If you are rich enough, you can surround yourself with pretty, shiny things. If you look hard enough into them you might see your own reflection. That’s all it is for Donald Trump — Melania, his empire, the Presidency, everything is just a giant mirror reflecting the only thing in the world that matters to him.
Pictures don’t always speak a thousand words — they don’t need to — sometimes a single word will do.
Posted in random thoughts, UncategorizedTagged al-asaad, body language, jinping, kim jong-un, margvelashvili, melania, merkel, nieto, obama, putin, theresa may, trudeau, trump
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State Natural Areas
a natural area by name.
a natural area by county.
and find places to go.
Use our interactive map
to find natural areas.
and help care for SNAs.
Subscribe to news and events updates
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Natural Areas Preservation Council
Research permitProblems opening the form?
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Rare plants, animals, natural communities
For information on State Natural Areas, contact:
State Natural Areas Program
Wisconsin State Natural Areas Program Kettle Moraine Low Prairie (No. 88)
Photo by Thomas A. Meyer
Kettle Moraine State Forest - Southern Unit
Within the Southern Unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest. Waukesha County. T5N-R17E, Sections 3, 4, 9, 10. 250 acres.
Kettle Moraine Low Prairie lies near the center of the Scuppernong Basin, a broad lowland drained by the Scuppernong River that once supported a vast prairie and sedge meadow complex. Situated in the glacial plain of southeastern Wisconsin, the northern portion of prairie is on gently undulating topography with standing water in depressions. Wet prairie and fen species such as blue-joint grass, shrubby cinquefoil, valerian, grass-of-Parnassus, and the uncommon Ohio goldenrod (Solidago ohioensis) dominate this area. Rich wet-mesic prairie lies to the south where the land slopes down to the river. Dominant species include Indian grass, big and little blue-stem, rattlesnake-master, and prairie dock. Small, upland islands within the wetland contain recovering oak opening and dry-mesic prairie. The natural area harbors significant populations of rare plants and animals and is an important refuge for them. Kettle Moraine Low Prairie is owned by the DNR and was designated a State Natural Area in 1971.
From the intersection of State Highways 67 and 59 in Eagle, go north on Highway 67 2.1 miles to a gated access lane leading west. Walk west 0.5 mile to the southeast corner of the site.
Kettle Moraine Low Prairie is owned by:
WDNR
The DNR's state natural areas program is comprised of lands owned by the state, private conservation organizations, municipalities, other governmental agencies, educational institutions and private individuals. While the majority of SNAs are open to the public, access may vary according to individual ownership policies. Public use restrictions may apply due to public safety, or to protect endangered or threatened species or unique natural features. Lands may be temporarily closed due to specific management activities. Users are encouraged to contact the landowner for more specific details.
The data shown on these maps have been obtained from various sources, and are of varying age, reliability, and resolution. The data may contain errors or omissions and should not be interpreted as a legal representation of legal ownership boundaries.
Property map [PDF]
Very few State Natural Areas have public facilities, but nearly all are open for a variety of recreational activities as indicated below. Generally, there are no picnic areas, restrooms, or other developments. Parking lots or designated parking areas are noted on individual SNA pages and maps. Trails, if present, are typically undesignated footpaths. If a developed trail is present, it will normally be noted on the SNA map and/or under the "Access" tab. A compass and topographic map or a GPS unit are useful tools for exploring larger, isolated SNAs.
The good majority of SNAs are isolated and have few or no facilities. Some SNAs have vehicle access lanes or parking lots, but their accessibility may vary depending on weather conditions. Parking lots and lanes are not plowed during winter. Hiking trails may be nonexistent or consist of undeveloped footpaths. A GPS unit or compass and detailed topographic map are useful tools for exploring larger SNAs.
Entrance fees: Excepting Parfrey's Glen, the Cambrian Outlook in the Dells of the Wisconsin River, SNAs within State Parks and some within State Forests, all other DNR-owned SNAs do not have any admission fee. For more information, see Wis. Admin. Code NR 45. For non-DNR-owned SNAs, we are unaware of any vehicle or admission fees. However, please contact the landowner for more information.
Allowable activities
In general, the activities listed below are allowed on all DNR-owned SNA lands. Exceptions to this list of public uses, such as SNAs closed to hunting, are noted under the "Access" tab above and posted with signs on site.
Scientific research (permit required)
Wild edibles (What is this?)
Pets (Rules)
Although a handful of sites allow activities like primitive camping (e.g. Lower Chippewa River on sand bars) or horseback riding (e.g. S. Kettle Moraine), the activities listed below are generally prohibited on DNR-owned SNAs.
Camping and campfires
Collecting of animals (other than legally harvested species), non-edible fungi, rocks, minerals, fossils, archaeological artifacts, soil, downed wood, or any other natural material, alive or dead. Collecting for scientific research requires a permit issued by the DNR
Collecting of plants including seeds, roots or other non-edible parts of herbaceous plants such as wildflowers or grasses
Vehicles, including bicycles, ATVs, aircraft, and snowmobiles except on trails and roadways designated for their use
For rules governing state-owned SNAs and other state lands, please consult Chapter NR 45 Wis. Admin. Code [exit DNR]
Last revised: Friday, October 16, 2020
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OTN Home > Oracle WebLogic Server 12.2.1.0 Documentation > Administration Console Online Help > Web Services
Before you can use the Administration Console to install, start, and configure a WebLogic Web service, you must develop one. For detailed information and procedures about developing a WebLogic Web service, see:
Developing JAX-WS Web Services for Oracle WebLogic Server
Developing JAX-RPC Web Services for Oracle WebLogic Server
A Web service is a Java class or a stateless session EJB that contains additional artifacts so that it can be invoked using SOAP. The additional artifacts include Web service-specific deployment descriptors, a WSDL file (public contract of the Web service), and data binding components to convert data between its internal Java representation and its external XML representation used in the request and response SOAP messages.
The WebLogic Web services programming model centers around Java Web Service (JWS) files and Ant tasks that execute on the JWS files. JWS files are Java files that use JWS metadata annotations to specify the shape and behavior of the Web service. Programmers begin creating a Web service by either programming the JWS file from scratch, or generating a stubbed-out version from an existing WSDL file (public contract of the Web service) and updating it with their business logic Java code. Programmers then use the jwsc Ant task to generate, from the JWS file, a deployable JEE 5 application or module that represents the Web service. These tasks are iterative; programmers keep coding and generating the Web service until it works as they want.
Programmers can pick one of two implementation types when programming a Web service: JAX-WS or JAX-RPC. Although the two types of Web services differ slightly in how they are invoked and the other specifications that they support, the two types are also very similar. For example, the programming model is essentially the same in that they both use JWS files and metadata annotations.
Web services are deployed as either Web applications or EJBs, depending on their implementation. The Web applications or EJBs can be deployed on their own, or as part of an Enterprise application. See View installed Web services for instructions on viewing the Web services that are currently installed on this Administration Server.
Programmers also use the Administration Console to test that the generated Web service deploys and works correctly. Later, administrators perform similar tasks on the completed Web service, such as installing, starting, and further configuring the Web service, as described in the sections below.
The following high-level procedure describes the types of administrative tasks you can perform on Web services using the Administration Console.
Install the Web service to make its archive or exploded directory known to the Administration Console. See Install a Web service.
Start the Web service so that client applications can begin using it. See Start and stop a Web service. This task also describes how to stop the Web service so that client applications can no longer access it.
Attach a WS-Policy file to the Web service or its operations. WS-Policy files are used to configure message-level security and reliable messaging. See Attach a WS-Policy file to a Web service
Configure the Web service. Basic configuration details of a Web service include the type of implementation (Java class packaged in a WAR file or a stateless EJB packaged in an EJB JAR file), the full name of the Web service, and so on. See Configure Web services.
Configure Web services reliable messaging. See Configure Web service reliable messaging.
Configure message buffering for Web services. When a buffered operation is invoked by a client, the method operation goes on a JMS queue and WebLogic Server deals with it asynchronously. See Configure message buffering for Web services.
Configure Web service atomic transactions and enable interoperability with other external transaction processing systems. See Configure Web service atomic transactions.
Configure Web service persistence. WebLogic Server provides a default Web service persistence store that provides a built-in, high-performance storage solution for Web services. The Web service persistence store is used by advanced features, such as Web services reliable messaging, to support long running requests and to survive server restarts. See Configure Web service persistence.
View the SOAP message handlers associated with the Web service. See View the SOAP message handlers of a Web service.
View the WSDL of the Web service. See View the WSDL of a Web service.
Test a SOAP Web service. See Test a Web service.
Test a RESTful Web service. See Test RESTful Web services.
Monitor the activity of a SOAP Web service, such as the number of times it has been invoked and the time of the longest invoke. See Monitor SOAP Web services.
Monitor the activity of a SOAP Web service client. See Monitor SOAP Web service clients.
Monitor the activity of a RESTful Web service. See Monitor RESTful Web services.
Create the Web service security configuration that is associated with the Web service.
When programmers created the Web service, they might have used the @WssConfiguration JWS annotation to associate a Web service security configuration to the service. This associated Web service security configuration is used to configure security features (in addition to those specified in any associated WS-Policy files), such as whether to use X.509 certificates to establish identity or use a password digest in a SOAP message.
See the following tasks:
Create a Web service security configuration
Use X.509 certificates to establish identity
Use a password digest in SOAP messages
Specify the key pair used to sign SOAP messages
Specify the key pair used to encrypt SOAP messages
If necessary, delete a Web service. See Delete a Web service.
Introducing Web Services for Oracle WebLogic Server
Securing WebLogic Web Services for Oracle WebLogic Server
WebLogic Web Services Reference for Oracle WebLogic Server
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A look at .Com numbers over the past 5 years
by Andrew Allemann — August 4, 2014 Uncategorized 8 Comments
.Com continues to grow, just at a slower pace.
There are many ways to measure .com.
There’s the zone file, the monthly reports Verisign sends to ICANN, and Verisign’s quarterly numbers revealed to investors.
Each of these numbers is measured differently. For example, some include domains in pending delete, while others don’t. The quarterly number combines .com with .net.
The key to measuring .com over time is to use consistent numbers. To compare apples to apples.
In this post I’ll provide data about .com’s growth over the past five years using data from the monthly reports Verisign submits to ICANN.
(These reports are made public three months after the the end of the month, which means there’s no data from Q2 2014. This is the period in which Verisign reported a sharp drop in “net adds” of domain names using the third measure listed above. Although new registrations were healthy, the renewal rate dropped.)
The number of registered .com domain names in the monthly reports has increased by at least 1 million each quarter during this period, with a median of about 1.7 million net adds.
You’ll note that the first quarter of each year is generally strongest. There’s seasonality in the domain name registration business, both natural and artificial (due to marketing programs).
Because of this seasonality, comparing quarter-over-quarter growth isn’t the best way to look at growth in .com. A year-over-year comparison is better:
The increase in the .com base is growing at a slower rate than before.
This will happen, of course, regardless of renewal rates and new registrations. As the existing base gets bigger, the percentage gain by the same gross gain is smaller.
The annual net adds have certainly been slipping, though. Over the past four quarters they’ve been in the 5.0-6.0 million range; in prior years they’ve been between 6.0-8.0 million.
Meyer says
Andrew, it appears Warren Buffett read your analysis. He just announced he bought shares in VeriSign.
Leonard Britt says
One of the arguments of the new TLDs is that there are millions and millions of users which are now or will be launching new businesses in the coming years. They will need a domain and will not be able to find a .COM. Is the domain aftermarket booming? There are sales but 2014 sales are nothing extraordinary compared to prior years. If .COM registrations are slowing then why do we need the new TLDs again?
“If .COM registrations are slowing then why do we need the new TLDs again?”
What is happening is that ccTLDs have been gaining ground, so the relative market share of .com has decreased in favor of ccTLDs.
Correction. It was announced this afternoon that Buffett increased his ownership of VeriSign to 10.5% from 9%
That is definitely a vote of confidence.
I did not realize Berkshire Hathaway owned that much of VeriSign.
Maybe Mr. Buffett can see why the contracts for the gTLD’s verisign applied for are still not signed.
Joseph Peterson says
My word! That upward trajectory in the .COM base is a straight line!
It’s still worth pointing out — since observers often talk about lower annual growth in registrations as a “deceleration” — that domain registrations are not one-time purchases; they’re ongoing subscriptions. Subscription income is means ongoing revenue at some rate.
So as long as the second graph, “Annual Growth Rate”, is above 0.00%, then .COM revenue is not only growing, it’s accelerating.
Di says
If they’re growing at such a slower place then why are more and more domain name programs coming out with great features? Have you heard about (removed). They’ve been around for 15 years, so I’m confused.
Jozef, namestrap has only been around 9 months as a site to promote domains for sale.
I would guess .com has been around over 30 yrs. And, VeriSign has had the contract for 15? yrs after the spinoff from Netsol. (going from memory which might be slightly off). 🙂
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Keith Urban Talks Retirement In Today’s Nashville Roundup
Scotty McCreery tells Digital Journal that he loves to sing his hit song ‘This Is It.’“It’s exciting. It’s my wedding and engagement song. I am excited to sing it every night. It has good memories for me.”
Jon Pardi tells the website, Grizzly Rose, that his ‘blue collar’ mentality is what he’s all about. “Man, that’s just how I grew up. I’ve always worked hard and I carried that work ethic into music with me. It’s what helped drive me to Nashville.”
Blake Shelton tells People magazine that John Legend has no chance of beating him on ”The Voice.” “I don’t know how deadly John is as a coach. I can only tell you that I have absolutely no faith in his ability to win this show. Not as long as I’m on, you know what I’m saying? I wanna beat him.”
Radio.com claims Michael Ray recently honored his grandfather by covering Randy Travis’ ”He Walked on Water.”
Keith Urban tells CMT that he has no plans to retire. “I will after Mick Jagger does. Right. Which is never gonna happen. I always think of retiring being about a factory job or a desk job or something that’s not your passion necessarily. I play music because that’s what I do. I love making music, and if I weren’t doing it in the gigs that I’m doing it, I would be doing it in little clubs somewhere, or I’d be doing it at someone’s barbecue, or the weekends somewhere, its just what I do. So I would never retire.”
The Daily Mail claims Carrie Underwood recently threw a Muppet-themed birthday party for her four-year-old son Isaiah. The highlight of the party was a Kermit the Frog cake.
Wonderwall claims Gwen Stefani is ready to marry Blake Shelton. A source tells the website; “Not only does Gwen want to move out of this ‘dating limbo,’ as she calls it, but she says she needs the security of marriage for herself and her kids’ peace of mind because they adore Blake and already consider him a second dad.”
Eric Kauffman
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Home > Proceedings > Volume 10565
PROCEEDINGS VOLUME 10565
INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON SPACE OPTICS—ICSO 2010 | 4-8 OCTOBER 2010
International Conference on Space Optics — ICSO 2010
Editor(s): Errico Armandillo, Bruno Cugny, Nikos Karafolas
IN THIS VOLUME
35 Sessions, 159 Papers, 0 Presentations
10565 Detector and Focal Plane Technologies I (4)
10565 Telescope and Mirror Technologies I (3)
10565 Detector and Focal Plane Technologies II (3)
10565 Telescope and Mirror Technologies II (4)
10565 LIDARS (3)
10565 Space Instruments I (4)
10565 LASERS (5)
10565 Space Instruments II (3)
10565 Photonic Qualifications (2)
10565 Stellar Cancellation (3)
10565 Photonic Communications (3)
10565 Spectrometers I (4)
10565 Photonic Sensing and Fiber Cables (5)
10565 Spectrometers II (4)
10565 Photonic Specialty Applications (5)
10565 Spectrometers III (3)
10565 Optical Subsystem and Technologies (6)
10565 Imaging (4)
10565 Deployable Telescopes (4)
10565 Qualification of O/E Technologies (4)
10565 Mirror Manufacturing and Testing (3)
10565 Attitude Control Technologies (4)
10565 Ceramic Technologies in Optical Instruments (5)
10565 Optical Devices (4)
10565 X‐Ray Technologies (4)
10565 Metrology (5)
10565 X‐Rays and SAR (3)
10565 Technologies for Fundamental Physics (5)
10565 Additional Papers (7)
10565 Telescope and Mirror Technologies I: Additional Paper (1)
10565 Spectrometers III: Additional Papers (1)
10565 X‐Ray Technologies: Additional Papers (2)
10565 Spectrometers III: Additional Paper (1)
10565 Poster Session: Additional Papers (37)
10565 Space Instruments II: Additional Paper (1)
INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON SPACE OPTICS—ICSO 2010
Rhodes Island, Greece
View the SPIE Conference + Exhibitions Calendar
10565 Detector and Focal Plane Technologies I
Hyperspectral CMOS imager
P. A. Jerram, M. Fryer, J. Pratlong, A. Pike, A. Walker, B. Dierickx, B. Dupont, A. Defernez
Proc. SPIE 10565, International Conference on Space Optics — ICSO 2010, 1056501 (20 November 2017); doi: 10.1117/12.2309195
CCDs have been used for many years for Hyperspectral imaging missions and have been extremely successful. These include the Medium Resolution Imaging Spectrometer (MERIS) [1] on Envisat, the Compact High Resolution Imaging Spectrometer (CHRIS) on Proba and the Ozone Monitoring Instrument operating in the UV spectral region. ESA are also planning a number of further missions that are likely to use CCD technology (Sentinel 3, 4 and 5). However CMOS sensors have a number of advantages which means that they will probably be used for hyperspectral applications in the longer term.
There are two main advantages with CMOS sensors: First a hyperspectral image consists of spectral lines with a large difference in intensity; in a frame transfer CCD the faint spectral lines have to be transferred through the part of the imager illuminated by intense lines. This can lead to cross-talk and whilst this problem can be reduced by the use of split frame transfer and faster line rates CMOS sensors do not require a frame transfer and hence inherently will not suffer from this problem. Second, with a CMOS sensor the intense spectral lines can be read multiple times within a frame to give a significant increase in dynamic range.
We will describe the design, and initial test of a CMOS sensor for use in hyperspectral applications. This device has been designed to give as high a dynamic range as possible with minimum cross-talk. The sensor has been manufactured on high resistivity epitaxial silicon wafers and is be back-thinned and left relatively thick in order to obtain the maximum quantum efficiency across the entire spectral range
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Development of an EMCCD for lidar applications
B. De Monte, R. T. Bell
A novel detector, incorporating e2v’s L3 CCD (L3Vision™) [1] technology for use in LIDAR (Light Detection And Ranging) applications has been designed, manufactured and characterised. The most critical performance aspect was the requirement to collect charge from a 120μm square detection area for a 667ns temporal sampling window, with low crosstalk between successive samples, followed by signal readout with sub-electron effective noise. Additional requirements included low dark signal, high quantum efficiency at the 355nm laser wavelength and the ability to handle bright laser echoes, without corruption of the much fainter useful signals.
The detector architecture used high speed charge binning to combine signal from each sampling window into a single charge packet. This was then passed through a multiplication register (Electron Multiplying Charge Coupled Device) operating with a typical gain of 100X to a conventional charge detection circuit. The detector achieved a typical quantum efficiency of 80% and a total noise in darkness of < 0.5 electrons rms. Development of the detector was supported by ESA (European Space Agency).
Systems approach to the design of the CCD sensors and camera electronics for the AIA and HMI instruments on solar dynamics observatory
N. Waltham, S. Beardsley, M. Clapp, J. Lang, P. Jerram, P. Pool, G. Auker, D. Morris, D. Duncan
Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) is imaging the Sun in many wavelengths near simultaneously and with a resolution ten times higher than the average high-definition television.
In this paper we describe our innovative systems approach to the design of the CCD cameras for two of SDO’s remote sensing instruments, the Atmospheric Imaging Assembly (AIA) and the Helioseismic and Magnetic Imager (HMI). Both instruments share use of a custom-designed 16 million pixel science-grade CCD and common camera readout electronics. A prime requirement was for the CCD to operate with significantly lower drive voltages than before, motivated by our wish to simplify the design of the camera readout electronics. Here, the challenge lies in the design of circuitry to drive the CCD's highly capacitive electrodes and to digitize its analogue video output signal with low noise and to high precision. The challenge is greatly exacerbated when forced to work with only fully space-qualified, radiation-tolerant components. We describe our systems approach to the design of the AIA and HMI CCD and camera electronics, and the engineering solutions that enabled us to comply with both mission and instrument science requirements.
Dynamic MTF measurement
Alain Bardoux, Thierry Gimenez, Nicolas Jamin, Frederic Seve
MTF (Modulation Transfer Frequency) of a detector is a key parameter for imagers. When image is not moving on the detector, MTF can be measured by some methods (knife edge, slanted slit,…). But with LEO satellites, image is moving on the surface of the detector, and MTF has to be measured in the same way: that is what we call "dynamic MTF". CNES (French Space Agency) has built a specific bench in order to measure dynamic MTF of detectors (CCD and CMOS), especially with component working in TDI (Time delay and integration) mode. The method is based on a moving edge, synchronized with the movement of charges inside the TDI detector. The moving part is a rotating cube, allowing a very stable movement of the image on the surface of the detector The main difficulties were:
- stability of the rotating speed
- synchronization between cube speed and charge transfer inside the detectors
- synchronization between cube position and data acquisition.
Different methods have been tested for the displacement of the knife edge:
- geometrical displacement
- electrical shift of the charge transfer clocks.
Static MTF has been performed before dynamic measurements, in order to fix a reference measurement, Then dynamic MTF bench has been set up. The results, for a TDI CCD show a very good precision. So this bench is validated, and the dynamic MTF value of the TDI CCD is confirmed.
10565 Telescope and Mirror Technologies I
Compact multispectral and hyperspectral imagers based on a wide field of view TMA
S. Grabarnik, M. Taccola, L. Maresi, V. Moreau, L. de Vos, J. Versluys, G. Gubbels
Three mirror anastigmat (TMA) telescope designs [1] had been implemented in different projects ranging from the narrow Field-Of-View large instruments as Quickbird (2° FOV) [2] to smaller telescopes as JSS 12° FOV developed for RapidEye mission [3].
This telescope configuration had been also selected for the PROBA-V payload, the successor of Vegetation, a multispectral imager flown on Spot-4 and subsequently on Spot-5 French satellites for Earth Observation and defence. PROBA-V, small PROBA-type satellite, will continue acquisition of vegetation data after the lifetime of Spot-5 expires in 2012.
The PROBA-V TMA optical design achieves a 34° FOV across track and makes use of highly aspherical mirrors. Such a telescope had become feasible due to the recently developed Single Point Diamond Turning fabrication technology. The telescope mirrors and structure are fabricated in aluminium and form an athermal optical system.
This paper presents the development of the compact wide FOV TMA, its implementation in PROBA-V multispectral imager and reviews optics fabrication technology that made this development possible. Furthermore, this TMA is being used in combination with a linear variable filter in a breadboard of a compact hyperspectral imager. Moreover, current technology allows miniaturization of TMA, so it is possible to use a TMA-based hyperspectral imager on a cubesat platform.
Pilot, a balloon borne experiment underground tests
C. Engel, C. Marty, B. Mot, J.-Ph. Bernard, I. Ristorcelli, G. Otrio, B. Leriche, Y. Longval, F. Pajot,et. al.
PILOT is a balloon borne experiment, which will measure the polarized emission of dust grains, in the interstellar medium, in the sub millimeter range (with two photometric channels centered at 240 and 550 μm).
The primary and secondary mirror must be positioned with accuracies better than 0.6 mm and 0.06°. These tolerances include environmental conditions (mainly gravity and thermo-elastic effects), uncertainties on alignments, and uncertainties on the dilatation coefficient. In order to respect these tolerances, we need precise characterization of each optical component. The characterization of the primary mirror and the integrated instrument is performed using a dedicated submillimeter test bench.
A brief description of the scientific objectives and instrumental concept is given in the first part. We present, in the second and in the third part, the status of these ground tests, first results and planned tests.
Parametric cost models for space telescopes
H. Philip Stahl, Todd Henrichs, Courtnay Dollinger
Multivariable parametric cost models for space telescopes provide several benefits to designers and space system project managers. They identify major architectural cost drivers and allow high-level design trades. They enable cost-benefit analysis for technology development investment. And, they provide a basis for estimating total project cost. A survey of historical models found that there is no definitive space telescope cost model. In fact, published models vary greatly [1]. Thus, there is a need for parametric space telescopes cost models. An effort is underway to develop single variable [2] and multi-variable [3] parametric space telescope cost models based on the latest available data and applying rigorous analytical techniques.
Specific cost estimating relationships (CERs) have been developed which show that aperture diameter is the primary cost driver for large space telescopes; technology development as a function of time reduces cost at the rate of 50% per 17 years; it costs less per square meter of collecting aperture to build a large telescope than a small telescope; and increasing mass reduces cost.
10565 Detector and Focal Plane Technologies II
Performance characterization of the EarthCARE BBR Detectors
C. Proulx, M. Allard, T. Pope, B. Tremblay, F. Williamson, C. Julien, C. Larouche, J. Delderfield, D. Parker
The Broadband Radiometer (BBR) is an instrument being developed for the ESA EarthCARE satellite. The BBR instrument objective is to provide measurements of the reflected short-wave (0.25-4.0 μm) and emitted long-wave (4.0-50 μm) top of the atmosphere (TOA) radiance over three along-track views (forward, nadir and backward). The instrument has three fixed telescopes, one for each view, each containing a broadband detector. The BBR instrument is led by SEA in the UK with RAL responsible for the BBR optics unit (OU) while EADS Astrium is the EarthCARE prime contractor. A detailed description of the instrument is provided in [1].
The BBR detectors consist in three dedicated assemblies under the responsibility of INO. The detectors development started in 2008 and led to the design and implementation of a new gold black deposition facility at INO [2], in parallel with the preliminary and detailed design phases of the detector assemblies. As of today, two breadboard models and one engineering model have been delivered to RAL. In the BBR OU each detector mechanically interfaces with the telescope and electrically with the front-end electronics (FEE). The detectors’ development is now at the Critical Design Review (CDR) level.
This paper first provides a description of the detector design along with its principles of operation. It further presents and discusses measurement and analysis results for the performance characterization of the engineering model in the context of the applicable requirements. Detector-level qualification planning is finally discussed.
Status of backthinned AlGaN based focal plane arrays for deep-UV imaging
J.-L. Reverchon, G. Lehoucq, J.-P. Truffer, E. Costard, E. Frayssinet, F. Semond, J.-Y. Duboz, A. Giuliani, M. Réfrégiers,et. al.
The achievement of deep ultraviolet (UV) focal plane arrays (FPA) is required for both solar physics [1] and micro electronics industry. The success of solar mission (SOHO, STEREO [2], SDO [3]…), has shown the accuracy of imaging at wavelengths from 10 nm to 140 nm to reveal effects occurring in the sun corona. Deep UV steppers at 13 nm are another demanding imaging technology for the microelectronic industry in terms of uniformity and stability. A third application concerns beam shaping of Synchrotron lines [4]. Consequently, such wavelengths are of prime importance whereas the vacuum UV wavelengths are very difficult to detect due to the dramatic interaction of light with materials.
The fast development of nitrides has given the opportunity to investigate AlGaN as a material for UV detection. Camera based on AlGaN present an intrinsic spectral selectivity and an extremely low dark current at room temperature. We have previously presented several FPA dedicated to deep UV based on 320 x 256 pixels of Schottky photodiodes with a pitch of 30 μm [4, 5]. AlGaN is grown on a silicon substrate instead of sapphire substrate only transparent down to 200 nm.
After a flip-chip hybridization, silicon substrate and AlGaN basal layer was removed by dry etching. Then, the spectral responsivity of the FPA presented a quantum efficiency (QE) from 5% to 20% from 50 nm to 290 nm when removing the highly doped contact layer via a selective wet etching. This FPA suffered from a low uniformity incompatible with imaging, and a long time response due to variations of conductivity in the honeycomb. We also observed a low rejection of visible. It is probably due to the same honeycomb conductivity enhancement for wavelength shorter than 360 nm, i.e., the band gap of GaN.
We will show hereafter an improved uniformity due to the use of a precisely ICP (Inductively Coupled Plasma) controlled process. The final membrane thickness is limited to the desertion layer. Neither access resistance limitation nor long response time are observed. QE varies from 5% at 50 nm to 15% at 6 nm (85% more when taking into account the filling factor). Consequently, we can propose prototypes concerning not only “solar blind” camera optimized for narrow band in the near UV range (between 280 nm and 260 nm), but also devices with spectral range extended in the deep UV (290 nm to 10 nm). Both detectors are available for an optical budget evaluation.
In-flight performance of the solar UV radiometer LYRA/PROBA-2
Y. Stockman, A. BenMoussa, I. Dammasch, J.-M. Defise, M. Dominique, J.-P. Halain, J.-F. Hochedez, S. Koller, W. Schmutz,et. al.
Proc. SPIE 10565, International Conference on Space Optics — ICSO 2010, 105650A (20 November 2017); doi: 10.1117/12.2309149
LYRA is a solar radiometer, part of the PROBA-2 micro-satellite payload (Fig. 1). The PROBA-2 [1] mission has been launched on 02 November 2009 with a Rockot launcher to a Sun-synchronous orbit at an altitude of 725 km. Its nominal operation duration is two years with possible extension of 2 years. PROBA-2 is a small satellite developed under an ESA General Support Technology Program (GSTP) contract to perform an in-flight demonstration of new space technologies and support a scientific mission for a set of selected instruments [2]. PROBA-2 host 17 technological demonstrators and 4 scientific instruments. The mission is tracked by the ESA Redu Mission Operation Center.
One of the four scientific instruments is LYRA that monitors the solar irradiance at a high cadence (> 20 Hz) in four soft X-Ray to VUV large passbands: the “Lyman-Alpha” channel, the “Herzberg” continuum range, the “Aluminium” and “Zirconium” filter channels. The radiometric calibration is traceable to synchrotron source standards [3]. LYRA benefits from wide bandgap detectors based on diamond. It is the first space assessment of these revolutionary UV detectors for astrophysics. Diamond sensors make the instruments radiation-hard and solar-blind (insensitive to the strong solar visible light) and, therefore, visible light blocking filters become superfluous. To correlate the data of this new detector technology, silicon detectors with well known characteristics are also embarked. Due to the strict allocated mass and power budget (5 kg, 5W), and poor priority to the payload needs on such platform, an optimization and a robustness of the instrument was necessary. The first switch-on occured on 16 November 2009. Since then the instrument performances have been monitored and analyzed during the commissioning period. This paper presents the first-light and preliminary performance analysis.
10565 Telescope and Mirror Technologies II
Baffles design of the PROBA-V wide FOV TMA
A. Mazzoli, P. Holbrouck, Y. Houbrechts, L. Maresi, Y. Stockman, M. Taccola, J. Versluys
Proc. SPIE 10565, International Conference on Space Optics — ICSO 2010, 105650B (20 November 2017); doi: 10.1117/12.2309106
Proba-V payload is a successor of the Vegetation instrument, a multispectral imager flown on Spot-4 and subsequently on Spot-5, French satellites for Earth Observation and defence. The instrument, with its wide field of view, is capable of covering a swath of 2200 km, which, in combination with a polar low Earth orbit, guarantees a daily revisit.
The lifetime of Spot-5 expires in early 2013, and to ensure the continuity of vegetation data, BELSPO, the Belgian Federal Science Policy Office, supported the development of an instrument that could be flown on a Proba type satellite, a small satellite developed by the Belgian QinetiQ Space (previously known as Verhaert Space).
The challenge of this development is to produce an instrument responding to the same user requirements as Vegetation, but with an overall mass of about 30 kg, while the Vegetation instrument mass is 130 kg. This development had become feasible thanks to a number of new technologies that have been developed since the nineties, when Vegetation was first conceived, namely Single Point Diamond Turning fabrication of aspherical mirrors and efficient VNIR and SWIR detectors.
The Proba-V payload is based on three identical reflective telescopes using highly aspherical mirrors in a TMA (Three Mirrors Anastigmat) configuration. Each telescope covers a field of view of 34° to reach the required swath.
One of the challenges in the development of the PROBA-V instrument is the efficient reduction of stray light. Due to the mass and volume constraints it was not possible to implement a design with an intermediate focus to reduce the stray light. The analysis and minimization of the in-field stray light is an important element of the design because of the large FOV and the surface roughness currently achievable with the Single Point Diamond Turning.
This document presents the preliminary baffle layout designed for the Three Mirrors Anastigmatic (TMA) telescope developed for the Proba-V mission. This baffling is used to avoid 1st order stray light i.e. direct stray light or through reflections on the mirrors. The stray light from the SWIR folding mirror is also studied. After these preliminary analyses the mechanical structure of the TMA is designed then verified in term of vignetting and stray light.
Design, manufacturing and testing of a four-mirror telescope with a wide field of view
P. Gloesener, F. Wolfs, F. Lemagne, M. Cola, C. Flebus, G. Blanchard, V. Kirschner
Proc. SPIE 10565, International Conference on Space Optics — ICSO 2010, 105650C (20 November 2017); doi: 10.1117/12.2309113
Regarding Earth observation missions, it has become unnecessary to point out the importance of making available wide field of view optical instruments for the purpose of spectral imaging.
Taking advantage of the pushbroom instrument concept with its linear field across the on-ground track, it is in particular relevant to consider front-end optical configurations that involve an all-reflective system presenting inherent and dedicated advantages such as achromaticity, unobscuration and compactness, while ensuring the required image quality over the whole field.
The attractiveness of the concept must be balanced with respect to the state-of-the-art mirror manufacturing technologies as the need for fast, broadband and wide field systems increases the constraints put on the feasibility of each individual component.
As part of an ESTEC contract, AMOS designed, manufactured and tested a breadboard of a four-mirror wide field telescope for typical Earth observation superspectral missions.
The initial purpose of the development was to assess the feasibility of a telecentric spaceborne three-mirror system covering an unobscured rectangular field of view of 26 degrees across track (ACT) by 6 degrees along track (ALT) with a f-number of 3.5 and a focal length of 500 mm and presenting an overall image quality better than 100 nm RMS wavefront error within the whole field.
AsteroidFinder – the space-borne telescope to search for NEO Asteroids
M. Hartl, H. Mosebach, J. Schubert, H. Michaelis, S. Mottola, E. Kührt, K. Schindler
Proc. SPIE 10565, International Conference on Space Optics — ICSO 2010, 105650D (20 November 2017); doi: 10.1117/12.2309201
This paper presents the mission profile as well as the optical configuration of the space-borne AsteroidFinder telescope. Its main objective is to retrieve asteroids with orbits interior to the earth’s orbit. The instrument requires high sensitivity to detect asteroids with a limiting magnitude of equal or larger than 18.5mag (V-Band) and astrometric accuracy of 1arcsec (1σ). This requires a telescope aperture greater than 400cm2, high image stability, detector with high quantum efficiency (peak > 90%) and very low noise, which is only limited by zodiacal background. The telescope will observe the sky between 30° and 60° in solar elongation. The telescope optics is based on a Cook type TMA. An effective 2°×2° field of view (FOV) is achieved by a fast F/3.4 telescope with near diffraction-limited performance. The absence of centre obscuration or spiders in combination with an accessible intermediate field plane and exit pupil allow for efficient stray light mitigation. Design drivers for the telescope are the required point spread function (PSF) values, an extremely efficient stray light suppression (due to the magnitude requirement mentioned above), the detector performance, and the overall optical and mechanical stability for all orientations of the satellite. To accommodate the passive thermal stabilization scheme and the necessary structural stability, the materials selection for the telescope main structure and the mirrors are of vital importance. A focal plane with four EMCCD detectors is envisaged. The EMCCD technology features shorter integration times, which is in favor regarding the pointing performance of the satellite. The launch of the mission is foreseen for the year 2013 with a subsequent mission lifetime of at least 1 year.
First experimental demonstration of a temporal Hypertelescope operation
L. Bouyeron, S. Olivier, F. Reynaud, L. Delage
Proc. SPIE 10565, International Conference on Space Optics — ICSO 2010, 105650E (5 January 2018); doi: 10.1117/12.2309192
High resolution Optical imaging instruments based on aperture synthesis have been developed over the last decades with the aim of reaching angular resolution in the nano radian range. These different instruments [1] take avantage of the property of the Zernike van Cittert theorem to recover the intensity distribution of the object from its spatial coherence analysis. With this method, the instrument can never select the light coming only from one of the pixels composing the full object because the measurements are being carried out on the Fourier spectral domain.
10565 LIDARS
The Lunar Orbiter Laser Altimeter (LOLA) on NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) mission
H. Riris, J. Cavanaugh, X. Sun, P. Liiva, M. Rodriguez, G. Neuman
Proc. SPIE 10565, International Conference on Space Optics — ICSO 2010, 105650F (20 November 2017); doi: 10.1117/12.2309209
The Lunar Orbiter Laser Altimeter (LOLA) instrument [1-3] on NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) mission, launched on June 18th, 2009, from Kennedy Space Center, Florida, will provide a precise global lunar topographic map using laser altimetry. LOLA will assist in the selection of landing sites on the Moon for future robotic and human exploration missions and will attempt to detect the presence of water ice on or near the surface, which is one of the objectives of NASA’s Exploration Program.
Our present knowledge of the topography of the Moon is inadequate for determining safe landing areas for NASA’s future lunar exploration missions. Only those locations, surveyed by the Apollo missions, are known with enough detail. Knowledge of the position and characteristics of the topographic features on the scale of a lunar lander are crucial for selecting safe landing sites. Our present knowledge of the rest of the lunar surface is at approximately 1 km kilometer level and in many areas, such as the lunar far side, is on the order of many kilometers. LOLA aims to rectify that and provide a precise map of the lunar surface on both the far and near side of the moon.
LOLA uses short (6 ns) pulses from a single laser through a Diffractive Optical Element (DOE) to produce a five-beam pattern that illuminates the lunar surface. For each beam, LOLA measures the time of flight (range), pulse spreading (surface roughness), and transmit/return energy (surface reflectance). LOLA will produce a high-resolution global topographic model and global geodetic framework that enables precise targeting, safe landing, and surface mobility to carry out exploratory activities. In addition, it will characterize the polar illumination environment, and image permanently shadowed regions of the lunar surface to identify possible locations of surface ice crystals in shadowed polar craters.
LIDAR technology for measuring trace gases on Mars and Earth
H. Riris, J. B. Abshire, Allan Graham, William Hasselbrack, Mike Rodriguez, Xiaoli Sun, Clark Weaver, Jianping Mao, Randy Kawa,et. al.
Proc. SPIE 10565, International Conference on Space Optics — ICSO 2010, 105650G (20 November 2017); doi: 10.1117/12.2309207
Trace gases and their isotopic ratios in planetary atmospheres offer important but subtle clues as to the origins of a planet's atmosphere, hydrology, geology, and potential for biology. An orbiting laser remote sensing instrument is capable of measuring trace gases on a global scale with unprecedented accuracy, and higher spatial resolution that can be obtained by passive instruments.
For Earth we have developed laser technique for the remote measurement of the tropospheric CO2, O2, and CH4 concentrations from space. Our goal is to develop a space instrument and mission approach for active CO2 measurements. Our technique uses several on and off-line wavelengths tuned to the CO2 and O2 absorption lines. This exploits the atmospheric pressure broadening of the gas lines to weigh the measurement sensitivity to the atmospheric column below 5 km and maximizes sensitivity to CO2 changes in the boundary layer where variations caused by surface sources and sinks are largest. Simultaneous measurements of O2 column use a selected region in the Oxygen A-band. Laser altimetry and atmospheric backscatter can also be measured simultaneously, which permits determining the surface height and measurements made to thick cloud tops and through aerosol layers.
We use the same technique but with a different transmitter at 1.65 um to measure methane concentrations. Methane is also a very important trace gas on earth, and a stronger greenhouse gas than CO2 on a per molecule basis. Accurate, global observations are needed in order to better understand climate change and reduce the uncertainty in the carbon budget. Although carbon dioxide is currently the primary greenhouse gas of interest, methane can have a much larger impact on climate change. Methane levels have remained relatively constant over the last decade but recent observations in the Arctic have indicated that levels may be on the rise due to permafrost thawing. NASA’s Decadal Survey underscored the importance of Methane as a greenhouse gas and called for a mission to measure CO2, CO and CH4. Methane has absorptions in the mid-infrared (3.3 um) and the near infrared (1.65 um). The 3.3 um spectral region is ideal for planetary (Mars) Methane monitoring, but unfortunately is not suitable for earth monitoring since the Methane absorption lines are severely interfered with by water. The near infra-red overtones of Methane at 1.65 um are relatively free of interference from other atmospheric species and are suitable for Earth observations. The methane instrument uses Optical Parametric Generation (OPG) along with sensitive detectors to achieve the necessary sensitivity. Our instrument generates and detects tunable laser signals in the 3.3 or 1.65 um spectral regions with different detectors in order to measure methane on Earth or Mars. For Mars, the main interest in methane is its importance as a biogenic marker.
Imaging lidar technology: development of a 3D-lidar elegant breadboard for rendezvous and docking, test results, and prospect to future sensor application
B. Moebius, M. Pfennigbauer, J. Pereira do Carmo
Proc. SPIE 10565, International Conference on Space Optics — ICSO 2010, 105650H (20 November 2017); doi: 10.1117/12.2309246
During the previous 15 years, Rendezvous and Docking Sensors (RVS) were developed, manufactured and qualified. In the mean time they were successfully applied in some space missions: For automatic docking of the European ATV “Jules Verne” on the International Space Station in 2008; for automatic berthing of the first Japanese HTV in 2009, and even the precursor model ARP-RVS for measurements during Shuttle Atlantis flights STS-84 and STS-86 to the MIR station. Up to now, about twenty RVS Flight Models for application on ATV, HTV and the American Cygnus Spacecraft were manufactured and delivered to the respective customers.
RVS is designed for tracking of customer specific, cooperative targets (i.e. retro reflectors that are arranged in specific geometries). Once RVS has acquired the target, the sensor measures the distance to the target by timeof- flight determination of a pulsed laser beam. Any echo return provokes an interrupt signal and thus the readout of the according encoder positions of the two scan mirrors that represent Azimuth and Elevation measurement direction to the target. [2], [3].
The capability of the RVS for 3D mapping of the scene makes the fully space qualified RVS to be real 3D Lidar sensors; thus they are a sound technical base for the compact 3D Lidar breadboard that was developed in the course of the Imaging Lidar Technology (ILT) project.
10565 Space Instruments I
James Webb space telescope (JWST): fine guidance sensor and tunable filter imager optical design overview and status
M. Maszkiewicz
Proc. SPIE 10565, International Conference on Space Optics — ICSO 2010, 105650I (20 November 2017); doi: 10.1117/12.2309243
The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) is a successor of the Hubble Space Telescope and the Spitzer Space Telescope to be launched in 2015 for 5 years long (10 years goal) science mission.
The integral field unit for the James Webb space telescope's near-infrared spectrograph
David J. Purll, Daniel R. Lobb, Andrew R. Barnes, R. Gordon Talbot, Stephen Rolt, David J. Robertson, Martin F. Closs, Maurice te Plate
Proc. SPIE 10565, International Conference on Space Optics — ICSO 2010, 105650J (20 November 2017); doi: 10.1117/12.2309221
The European Space Agency (ESA) is providing the Near Infrared Spectrograph (NIRSpec) developed by EADS Astrium GmbH to fly on the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST). NIRSpec covers the 0.6-5.0 µm domain. It will be primarily operated as a multi-object spectrograph, using a MEMS micro-shutter array (MSA) provided by NASA to select multiple objects from the field of view at an intermediate image plane formed by the NIRSpec fore-optics. The MSA apertures form multiple entrance slits of the spectrometer section.
EUCLID mission design
Oswald Wallner, Klaus Ergenzinger, Sean Tuttle, L. Vaillon, Ulrich Johann
Proc. SPIE 10565, International Conference on Space Optics — ICSO 2010, 105650K (20 November 2017); doi: 10.1117/12.2309226
EUCLID, a medium-class mission candidate of ESA's Cosmic Vision 2015–2025 Program, currently in Definition Phase (Phase A/B1), shall map the geometry of the Dark Universe by investigating dark matter distributions, the distance-redshift relationship, and the evolution of cosmic structures. EUCLID consists of a 1.2 m telescope and two scientific instruments for ellipticity and redshift measurements in the visible and nearinfrared wavelength regime. We present a design concept of the EUCLID mission which is fully compliant with the mission requirements. Preliminary concepts of the spacecraft and of the payload including the scientific instruments are discussed.
Wavefront sensor for the GAIA Mission
Amir Vosteen, Folkert Draaisma, Willem van Werkhoven, Luud van Riel, Margreet Mol, Wim Gielesen
Proc. SPIE 10565, International Conference on Space Optics — ICSO 2010, 105650L (20 November 2017); doi: 10.1117/12.2309234
TNO has developed, built and tested the Wave Front Sensor (WFS) for ESA’s Gaia mission. The WFS will help Gaia create an extraordinarily precise three-dimensional map of more than one billion stars in our Galaxy. Part of ESA's Cosmic Vision programme, Gaia’s build is led by EADS Astrium and is scheduled for launch in 2012. The Wave Front Sensor will be used to monitor the wave front errors of the two main telescopes mounted on the GAIA satellite. These mirrors include a 5-degree of freedom (DOF) mechanism that can be used to minimize the wave front errors during operation. The GAIA-WFS will operate over a broad wavelength (450 to 900 nm) and under cryogenic conditions (130 to 200 K operation temperature). The WFS uses an all reflective, a-thermal design and is of the type of Shack-Hartmann. The boundary condition for the design is that the focal plane of the WFS is the same plane as the focal plane of the GAIA telescopes. The spot pattern generated after a micro lens array ( MLA) by a star is compared to the pattern of one of the three calibration sources that is included in the WFS, allowing in flight calibration. We show the robust and lightweight opto mechanical design that is optimised for launch and cryogenic operation. Details are given on its alignment and commissioning. The WFS is able to measure relative wave front distortions in the order of lambda/1000, and can determine the optimum position of the focal plane with an accuracy of 50 μm
10565 LASERS
Development of lidar sensor systems for autonomous safe landing on planetary bodies
F. Amzajerdian, D. Pierrottet, L. Petway, M. Vanek
Proc. SPIE 10565, International Conference on Space Optics — ICSO 2010, 105650M (20 November 2017); doi: 10.1117/12.2309116
Future NASA exploratory missions to the Moon and Mars will require safe soft-landings at the designated sites with a high degree of precision. These sites may include areas of high scientific value with relatively rough terrain with little or no solar illumination and possibly areas near pre-deployed assets. The ability of lidar technology to provide three-dimensional elevation maps of the terrain, high precision distance to the ground, and approach velocity can enable safe landing of large robotic and manned vehicles with a high degree of precision. Currently, NASA-LaRC is developing novel lidar sensors aimed at meeting NASA’s objectives for future planetary landing missions under the Autonomous Landing and Hazard Avoidance (ALHAT) project [1]. These lidar sensors are 3-Dimensional Imaging Flash Lidar, Doppler Lidar, and Laser Altimeter. The Flash Lidar is capable of generating elevation maps of the terrain identifying hazardous features such as rocks, craters, and steep slopes. The elevation maps collected during the approach phase between 1000 m to 500 m above the ground can be used to determine the most suitable safe landing site. The Doppler Lidar provides highly accurate ground velocity and distance data allowing for precision navigation to the selected landing site. Prior to the approach phase at altitudes of over 15 km, the Laser Altimeter can provide sufficient data for updating the vehicle position and attitude data from the Inertial Measurement Unit. At these higher altitudes, either the Laser Altimeter or the Flash Lidar can be used for generating a contour map of the terrain below for identifying known surface features such as craters for further reducing the vehicle relative position error.
Development of a pulsed UV laser system for laser-desorption mass spectrometry on Mars
C. Kolleck, A. Büttner, M. Ernst, T. Hülsenbusch, T. Lang, R. Marwah, S. Mebben, M. Priehs, D. Kracht,et. al.
Proc. SPIE 10565, International Conference on Space Optics — ICSO 2010, 105650N (20 November 2017); doi: 10.1117/12.2309199
A near-flight prototype of a pulsed UV laser has been developed for the Mars Organic Molecule Analyzer (MOMA) of the ExoMars mission. The laser head is based on a Nd:YAG oscillator with subsequent frequency quadrupling and emits nanosecond pulses with an energy of > 300 μJ at a wavelength of 266 nm. The design is compact and lightweight. Tests in relevant environment regarding temperature, vibration, and radiation have been performed.
Highly-reliable laser diodes and modules for spaceborne applications
E. Deichsel
Proc. SPIE 10565, International Conference on Space Optics — ICSO 2010, 105650O (20 November 2017); doi: 10.1117/12.2309258
Laser applications become more and more interesting in contemporary missions such as earth observations or optical communication in space.
One of these applications is light detection and ranging (LIDAR), which comprises huge scientific potential in future missions. The Nd:YAG solid-state laser of such a LIDAR system is optically pumped using 808nm emitting pump sources based on semiconductor laser-diodes in quasi-continuous wave (qcw) operation. Therefore reliable and efficient laser diodes with increased output powers are an important requirement for a spaceborne LIDAR-system. In the past, many tests were performed regarding the performance and life-time of such laser-diodes. There were also studies for spaceborne applications, but a test with long operation times at high powers and statistical relevance is pending.
Other applications, such as science packages (e.g. Raman-spectroscopy) on planetary rovers require also reliable high-power light sources. Typically fiber-coupled laser diode modules are used for such applications. Besides high reliability and life-time, designs compatible to the harsh environmental conditions must be taken in account. Mechanical loads, such as shock or strong vibration are expected due to take-off or landing procedures. Many temperature cycles with high change rates and differences must be taken in account due to sun-shadow effects in planetary orbits. Cosmic radiation has strong impact on optical components and must also be taken in account. Last, a hermetic sealing must be considered, since vacuum can have disadvantageous effects on optoelectronics components.
Athermal fiber laser for the SWARM absolute scalar magnetometer
W. Fourcault, J.-M. Léger, V. Costes, I. Fratter, L. Mondin
Proc. SPIE 10565, International Conference on Space Optics — ICSO 2010, 105650P (20 November 2017); doi: 10.1117/12.2309215
The Absolute Scalar Magnetometer (ASM) developed by CEA-LETI/CNES is an optically pumped 4He magnetic field sensor based on the Zeeman effect and an electronic magnetic resonance whose effects are amplified by a laser pumping process [1-2]. Consequently, the role of the laser is to pump the 4He atoms at the D0 transition as well as to allow the magnetic resonance signal detection.
The ASM will be the scalar magnetic reference instrument of the three ESA Swarm satellites to be launched in 2012 in order to carry out the best ever survey of the Earth magnetic field and its temporal evolution. The sensitivity and accuracy of this magnetometer based on 4He optical pumping depend directly on the characteristics of its light source, which is the key sub-system of the sensor.
We describe in this paper the selected fiber laser architecture and its wavelength stabilization scheme. Its main performance in terms of spectral emission, optical power at 1083 nm and intensity noise characteristics in the frequency bands used for the operation of the magnetometer, are then presented. Environmental testing results (thermal vacuum cycling, vibrations, shocks and ageing) are also reported at the end of this paper.
Qualification of an evaluated butterfly-packaged DFB laser designed for space applications
S. Tornow, C. Stier, T. Buettner, T. Laurent, M. Kneier, J. Bru, Y. Lien
Proc. SPIE 10565, International Conference on Space Optics — ICSO 2010, 105650Q (20 November 2017); doi: 10.1117/12.2309179
An extended qualification program has proven the quality of a previously evaluated semiconductor laser diode, which is intended to be used in a subsystem for the GAIA mission. We report on results of several reliability tests performed in subgroups. The requirements of the procurement specification with respect to reliability and desired manufacturing processes were confirmed. This is an example for successful collaboration between component supplier, system integrator and payload responsible party.
10565 Space Instruments II
Optical and thermal design of 1.5-m aperture solar UV visible and IR observing telescope for Solar-C mission
Y. Suematsu, Y. Katsukawa, T. Shimizu, K. Ichimoto, T. Horiuchi, Y. Matsumoto, N. Takeyama
Proc. SPIE 10565, International Conference on Space Optics — ICSO 2010, 105650R (20 November 2017); doi: 10.1117/12.2309191
The next Japanese solar mission, SOLAR-C, which has been envisaged after successful science operation of Hinode (SOLAR-B) mission, is perusing two plans: plan-A and plan-B, and under extensive study from science objectives as well as engineering point of view. The plan-A aims at performing out-of-ecliptic observations for investigating, with helioseismic approach, internal structure and dynamo mechanisms of the Sun. It also explores polar regions where fast solar wind is believed to originate. A baseline orbit for plan-A is a circular orbit of 1 AU distance from the Sun with its inclination at around or greater than 40 degrees. The plan-B aims to study small-scale plasma processes and structures in the solar atmosphere which attract researchers’ growing interest, followed by many Hinode discoveries [1], for understanding fully dynamism and magnetic nature of the atmosphere. With plan-B, high-angular-resolution investigation of the entire solar atmosphere (from the photosphere to the corona, including their interface layers, i.e., chromosphere and transition region) is to be performed with enhanced spectroscopic and spectro-polarimetric capability as compared with Hinode, together with enhanced sensitivity towards ultra-violet wavelengths. The orbit of plan-B is either a solar synchronous polar orbit of altitude around 600 km or a geosynchronous orbit to ensure continuous solar observations. After the decision of any one of the two plans, the SOLAR-C will be proposed for launch in mid-2010s.
In this paper, we will present a basic design of one of major planned instrumental payload for the plan-B: the Solar Ultra-violet Visible and near IR observing Telescope (hereafter referred to as SUVIT). The basic concept in designing the SUVIT is to utilize as much as possible a heritage of successful telescope of the Solar Optical Telescope (SOT) aboard Hinode [2]. Major differences of SUVIT from SOT are the three times larger aperture of 1.5 m, which enables to collect one order of magnitude more photons than SOT, relatively shorter telescope length of 2.8 m to accommodate a launcher’s nosecone size for possible dual-satellite-launch configuration, and much wider observing wavelength from UV (down to 250 nm) through near IR (up to 1100 nm). The large aperture is essentially important to attain scientific goals of the plan-B, especially for accurate diagnostics of the dynamic solar chromosphere as revealed by Hinode, although this make it difficult to design the telescope because of ten times more solar heat load introduced into the telescope. The SUVIT consists of two optically separable components; the telescope assembly (TA) and an accompanying focal plane package equipped with filtergraphs and spectrographs. Opto-mechanical and -thermal performance of the TA is crucial to attain high-quality solar observations and here we present a status of feasible study in its optical and thermal designing for diffraction-limited performance at visible wavelength in a reasonably wide field of view.
Performances of swap on-board PROBA-2
J.-P. Halain, D. Berghmans, J.-F. Defise, P. Rochus, B. Nicula, A. de Groof, D. Seaton
Proc. SPIE 10565, International Conference on Space Optics — ICSO 2010, 105650S (20 November 2017); doi: 10.1117/12.2309237
The PROBA2 mission has been launched on 2nd November2009 with a Rockot launcher to a Sunsynchronous orbit at an altitude of 725 km. Its nominal operation duration is two years with possible extension of 2 years. PROBA2 is a small satellite developed under an ESA General Support Technology Program (GSTP) contract to perform an in-flight demonstration of new space technologies and support a scientific mission for a set of selected instruments. The mission is tracked by the ESA Redu Mission Operation Center.
ASPIICS: a giant, white light and emission line coronagraph for the ESA proba-3 formation flight mission
P. L. Lamy, S. Vivès, W. Curdt, L. Damé, J. Davila, J.-M. Defise, S. Fineschi, P. Heinzel, Russel Howard,et. al.
Proc. SPIE 10565, International Conference on Space Optics — ICSO 2010, 105650T (20 November 2017); doi: 10.1117/12.2309188
Classical externally-occulted coronagraphs are presently limited in their performances by the distance between the external occulter and the front objective. The diffraction fringe from the occulter and the vignetted pupil which degrades the spatial resolution prevent useful observations of the white light corona inside typically 2-2.5 solar radii (Rsun). Formation flying offers and elegant solution to these limitations and allows conceiving giant, externally-occulted coronagraphs using a two-component space system with the external occulter on one spacecraft and the optical instrument on the other spacecraft at a distance of hundred meters [1, 2]. Such an instrument ASPIICS (Association de Satellites Pour l’Imagerie et l’Interférométrie de la Couronne Solaire) has been selected by the European Space Agency (ESA) to fly on its PROBA-3 mission of formation flying demonstration which is presently in phase B (Fig. 1). The classical design of an externally-occulted coronagraph is adapted to the formation flying configuration allowing the detection of the very inner corona as close as ∼0.04 solar radii from the solar limb. By tuning the position of the occulter spacecraft, it may even be possible to reach the chromosphere and the upper part of the spicules [3]. ASPIICS will perform (i) high spatial resolution imaging of the continuum K+F corona in photometric and polarimetric modes, (ii) high spatial resolution imaging of the E-corona in two coronal emission lines (CEL): Fe XIV and He I D3, and (iii) two-dimensional spectrophotometry of the Fe XIV emission line. ASPIICS will address the question of the coronal heating and the role of waves by characterizing propagating fluctuations (waves and turbulence) in the solar wind acceleration region and by looking for oscillations in the intensity and Doppler shift of spectral lines. The combined imaging and spectral diagnostics capabilities available with ASPIICS will allow mapping the velocity field of the corona both in the sky plane (directly on the images) and along the line-of-sight by measuring the Doppler shifts of emission lines in an effort to determine how the different components of the solar wind, slow and fast are accelerated. With a possible launch in 2014, ASPIICS will observe the corona during the maximum of solar activity, insuring the detection of many Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs). By rapidly alternating high-resolution imaging and spectroscopy, CMEs will be thoroughly characterized.
10565 Photonic Qualifications
Optoelectronic devices product assurance guideline for space application
A. Bensoussan, M. Vanzi
Proc. SPIE 10565, International Conference on Space Optics — ICSO 2010, 105650U (5 January 2018); doi: 10.1117/12.2309262
New opportunities are emerging for the implementation of hardware sub-systems based on OptoElectronic Devices (OED) for space application. Since the end of this decade the main players for space systems namely designers and users including Industries, Agencies, Manufacturers and Laboratories are strongly demanding of adequate strategies to qualify and validate new optoelectronics products and sub-systems [1]. The long term space application mission will require to address either inter-satellite link (free space communication, positioning systems, tracking) or intra-satellite connectivity/flexibility/reconfigurability or high volume of data transfer between equipment installed into payload.
Experimental demonstration of the switching dose-rate method on doped optical fibers
J. Thomas, M. Myara, L. Troussellier, E. Régnier, E. Burov, O. Gilard, M. Sottom, P. Signoret
Proc. SPIE 10565, International Conference on Space Optics — ICSO 2010, 105650V (20 November 2017); doi: 10.1117/12.2309255
Optical technology developed for ground and submarine telecommunications is becoming of strong interest for next generation satellites. In addition to inter-satellite laser communications and LIDAR’s, new applications are being considered such as on-board distribution and processing of microwave signals, fiber sensors or gyroscopes as well. Whereas common optical / optoelectronic components are known to be weakly sensitive to radiations, the essential optical amplifiers are strongly degraded in such an environment because of the RIA (Radio-Induced-Absorption) experienced by the Erbium-Doped Fiber (EDF) itself [1-3]. This degradation is mainly caused by the presence of co-doping ions, such as Aluminium or Germanium, inserted in the fibre to assist the inclusion of the Erbium ions in the silica matrix or to provide to the optical fibre its guiding properties.
10565 Stellar Cancellation
First results of the PERSEE experiment
J.-M. Le Duigou, J. Lozi, F. Cassaing, K. Houairi, B. Sorrente, J. Montri, S. Jacquinod, J.-M. Reess, L. Pham,et. al.
Proc. SPIE 10565, International Conference on Space Optics — ICSO 2010, 105650W (20 November 2017); doi: 10.1117/12.2309159
Although it has been recently postponed due to high cost and risks, nulling interferometry in space remains one of the very few direct detection methods able to characterize extrasolar planets and particularly telluric ones. Within this framework, several projects such as DARWIN [1], [2], TPF-I [3], [4], FKSI [5] or PEGASE [6], [7], have been proposed in the past years. Most of them are based on a free flying concept. It allows firstly to avoid atmosphere turbulence, and secondly to distribute instrumental function over many satellites flying in close formation. In this way, a very high angular resolution can be achieved with an acceptable launch mass. But the price to pay is to very precisely position and stabilize relatively the spacecrafts, in order to achieve a deep and stable extinction of the star. Understanding and mastering all these requirements are great challenges and key issues towards the feasibility of these missions. Thus, we decided to experimentally study this question and focus on some possible simplifications of the concept.
Since 2006, PERSEE (PEGASE Experiment for Research and Stabilization of Extreme Extinction) laboratory test bench is under development by a consortium composed of Centre National d’Etudes Spatiales (CNES), Institut d’Astrophysique Spatiale (IAS), Observatoire de Paris-Meudon (LESIA), Observatoire de la Côte d’Azur (OCA), Office National d’Etudes et de Recherches Aérospatiales (ONERA), and Thalès Alénia Space (TAS) [8]. It is mainly funded by CNES R&D. PERSEE couples an infrared wide band nulling interferometer with local OPD and tip/tilt control loops and a free flying Guidance Navigation and Control (GNC) simulator able to introduce realistic disturbances. Although it was designed in the framework of the PEGASE free flying space mission, PERSEE can adapt very easily to other contexts like FKSI (in space, with a 10 m long beam structure) or ALADDIN [9] (on ground, in Antarctica) because the optical designs of all those missions are very similar. After a short description of the experimental setup, we will present first the results obtained in an intermediate configuration with monochromatic light. Then we will present some preliminary results with polychromatic light. Last, we discuss some very first more general lessons we can already learn from this experiment.
Manufacturing and testing of wavefront filters for DARWIN
R. Flatscher, V. Artjushenko, T. Sakharova, Joao Pereira do Carmo
Proc. SPIE 10565, International Conference on Space Optics — ICSO 2010, 105650X (20 November 2017); doi: 10.1117/12.2309269
Wavefront filtering is mandatory in the realisation of nulling interferometers with high star light suppression capability required to detect extrasolar planets, such as the one foreseen for the ESA Darwin mission.
This paper presents the design, manufacturing, and test results of single mode fibres to be used as wavefront filters in mid-infrared range. Fibres made from chalcogenide glass and silver halide crystals were produced. The first class can serve as wavefront filters up to a wavelength of 11 microns, while silver halide fibres can be used over the full Darwin wavelength range from 6.5 to 18 micron. The chalcogenide glass fibres were drawn by double crucible method whereas polycrystalline fibres from silver halides were fabricated by multiple extrusion from a crystalline preform.
Multi-layer AR-coatings for fibre ends were developed and environmentally tested for both types of fibres. Special fibre facet polishing procedures were established, in particular for the soft silver halide fibre ends. Cable design and assembly process were also developed, including termination by SMA-connectors with ceramic ferrules and fibre protection by loose PEEK-tubings to prevent excessive bending and chemical attacks for fibres.
The wavefront filtering capability of the fibres was demonstrated on a high quality Mach-Zehnder interferometer. Two different groups of laser sources were used to measure the wavefront filtering of the fibres by using a CO-laser for testing in the lower sub-band and a CO2-laser to check the upper sub-band.
Measurements of the fibres far field intensity distribution and transmission were performed for numerous cable samples. Single mode behaviour was observed in more than 25 silver halide fibre cables before AR-coating of their ends, while after that 17 cables were compliant with all technical requirements. Residual cladding modes existing in short single mode fibres were effectively removed by applying of a proper absorbing jacket to the fibre's lateral surface and by adding an oversized output aperture in front of fibre ends.
Several fibres were exposed to gamma radiation of total dose of 25, 50, and even 500 krad. No deterioration was found on AR-coated fibre ends and on fibre material. Five fibres were irradiated by proton radiation of 10MeV energy and 1010 p/cm2 equivalent fluence. Several fibres were cooled down to 10 K by plunging them in a dipstick into liquid Helium. Silver halide fibres survived that test when cables were properly assembled. The brittle chalcogenide glass fibres were much more sensitive to thermal gradients and the related cables did not survive the thermal shock.
Critical issues have been revealed in multiple drawings of chalcogenide glass fibres where core and cladding composition were not stable at some fabrication stages - resulting in a poor single mode guiding. Much better results have been achieved with polycrystalline fibres from silver halides made with a small core and low NA and enabling single mode guiding in the mid infrared.
Integrated optics for nulling interferometry in the thermal infrared: progress and recent achievements
M. Barillot, E. Barthelemy, L. Bastard, J.-E. Broquin, G. Hawkins, V. Kirschner, S. Ménard, G. Parent, C. Poinsot,et. al.
Proc. SPIE 10565, International Conference on Space Optics — ICSO 2010, 105650Y (20 November 2017); doi: 10.1117/12.2309134
The search for Earth-like exoplanets, orbiting in the habitable zone of stars other than our Sun and showing biological activity, is one of the most exciting and challenging quests of the present time. Nulling interferometry from space, in the thermal infrared, appears as a promising candidate technique for the task of directly observing extra-solar planets. It has been studied for about 10 years by ESA and NASA in the framework of the Darwin and TPF-I missions respectively [1].
Nevertheless, nulling interferometry in the thermal infrared remains a technological challenge at several levels. Among them, the development of the "modal filter" function is mandatory for the filtering of the wavefronts in adequacy with the objective of rejecting the central star flux to an efficiency of about 105. Modal filtering [2] takes benefit of the capability of single-mode waveguides to transmit a single amplitude function, to eliminate virtually any perturbation of the interfering wavefronts, thus making very high rejection ratios possible.
The modal filter may either be based on single-mode Integrated Optics (IO) and/or Fiber Optics. In this paper, we focus on IO, and more specifically on the progress of the on-going “Integrated Optics” activity of the European Space Agency.
10565 Photonic Communications
Fibre optics in the SMOS mission
K. Kudielka, F. J. Benito-Hernández, W. Rits, M. Martin-Neira
Proc. SPIE 10565, International Conference on Space Optics — ICSO 2010, 105650Z (20 November 2017); doi: 10.1117/12.2309115
Launched on November 2nd, 2009, SMOS (Soil Moisture, Ocean Salinity) is the second Earth Explorer Opportunity mission developed as part of ESA’s Living Planet Programme. It demonstrates a completely new type of instrument – a large, deployable synthetic-aperture microwave radiometer [1].
RUAG Space, Switzerland, as a subcontractor of EADS Astrium, Spain, has provided the instrument’s fibreoptic harness, which interconnects the central data processor with all 69 microwave receivers, as well as 12 auxiliary units on board. For reasons explained in Section 3, SMOS is the first European mission extensively using both fibre-optic clock distribution and data transmission in space.
In Section 2, we present an overview of the scientific goals of SMOS, and describe the payload’s basic function. There from we derive the rationale and the design of the fibre-optic harness (Section 3). In Section 4 all development, manufacturing, and test activities are summarised, which culminated in the successful delivery of all flight units to EADS Astrium by October 2006. We present the major test results obtained with the flight harness (Section 5), and conclude with a short summary of the higher-level activities, which lead to successful launch and commissioning of the SMOS satellite (Section 6).
Innovative on board payload optical architecture for high throughput satellites
D. Baudet, B. Braux, O. Prieur, R. Hughes, M. Wilkinson, K. Latunde-Dada, J. Jahns, U. Lohmann, D. Fey,et. al.
For the next generation of HighThroughPut (HTP) Telecommunications Satellites, space end users’ needs will result in higher link speeds and an increase in the number of channels; up to 512 channels running at 10Gbits/s. By keeping electrical interconnections based on copper, the constraints in term of power dissipation, number of electrical wires and signal integrity will become too demanding. The replacement of the electrical links by optical links is the most adapted solution as it provides high speed links with low power consumption and no EMC/EMI.
But replacing all electrical links by optical links of an On Board Payload (OBP) is challenging. It is not simply a matter of replacing electrical components with optical but rather the whole concept and architecture have to be rethought to achieve a high reliability and high performance optical solution. In this context, this paper will present the concept of an Innovative OBP Optical Architecture.
The optical architecture was defined to meet the critical requirements of the application: signal speed, number of channels, space reliability, power dissipation, optical signals crossing and components availability. The resulting architecture is challenging and the need for new developments is highlighted. But this innovative optically interconnected architecture will substantially outperform standard electrical ones.
High performance photonic ADC for space applications
S. Pantoja, M. A. Piqueras, P. Villalba, B. Martínez, E. Rico
The flexibility required for future telecom payloads will require of more digital processing capabilities, moving from conventional analogue repeaters to more advanced and efficient analog subsystems or DSPbased solutions. Aggregate data throughputs will have to be handled onboard, creating the need for effective, ADC/DSP and DSP/DAC high speed links. Broadband payloads will have to receive, route and retransmit hundreds of channels and need to be designed so as to meet such requirements of larger bandwidth, system transparency and flexibility.[1][2]
One important device in these new architectures is analog to digital converter (ADC) and its equivalent digital to analog converter (DAC). These will be the in/out interface for the use of digital processing in order to provide flexible beam to beam connectivity and variable bandwidth allocation.
For telecom payloads having a large number of feeds and thus a large number of converters the mass and consumption of the mixer stage has become significant. Moreover, the inclusion of ADCs in the payload presents new trade-offs in design (jitter, quantization noise, ambiguity). This paper deals with an alternative solution of these two main problems with the exploitation of photonic techniques.
10565 Spectrometers I
Instrument demonstration effort for the CLARREO mission
Frédéric Grandmont, Louis Moreau, Hugo Bourque, Joe Taylor, Frédéric Girard, Martin Larouche, James Veilleux
NASA and other national agencies ask the National Research Council (NRC) once every decade to look out ten or more years into the future and prioritize research areas, observations, and notional missions to make those observations. The latest such scientific community consultation referred to as the Decadal Survey (DS), was completed in 2007 [1]. DS thematic panels developed 35 missions from more than 100 missions proposed, from which the DS Executive Committee synthesized 17 missions, with suggested order presented in three time-phased blocks. The first block with aim for near term launch (2010-2013) included four missions. The Climate Absolute Radiance and Refractivity Observatory (CLARREO) mission is one of them.
The CLARREO mission was classified as a Small Mission to be contained in a 300 M US$ budgetary envelope. CLARREO will provide a benchmark climate record that is global, accurate in perpetuity, tested against independent strategies that reveal systematic errors, and pinned to international standards. The long term objective thus suggests that NOAA or NASA will fly the CLARREO instrument suite on an operational basis following the first scientific experiment
The CLARREO missions will conduct the following observations:
1. Absolute spectrally-resolved measurements of terrestrial thermal emission with an absolute accuracy of 0.1 K in brightness temperature (3σ or 99% confidence limits.) The measurements should cover most of the thermal spectrum.
2. Absolute spectrally-resolved measurements of the solar radiation reflected from Earth. The measurements should cover the part of the solar spectrum most important to climate, including the near-ultraviolet, visible, and near-infrared.
3. Independent measurements of atmospheric temperature, pressure, and humidity using Global Positioning System (GPS) occultation measurements of atmospheric refraction.
4. Serve as a high accuracy calibration standard for use by the broadband CERES instruments on-orbit.
Following the DS conclusion, and considering the early development stage of the mission, NASA funded three Instrument Incubator Programs (IIP) to push instrument concepts to a higher level of maturity. A joint proposal between University of Wisconsin (UW) and Harvard University was selected to address the first above objective and part of the fourth one in the corresponding spectral region. In order to achieve this goal, four complementary technologies are to be developed [2]:
(1) On-orbit Absolute Radiance Standard (OARS), a high emissivity blackbody source that uses multiple miniature phase-change cells to provide a revolutionary on-orbit standard with absolute temperature accuracy proven over a wide range of temperatures.
(2) On-orbit Cavity Emissivity Modules (OCEMs), providing a source (quantum cascade laser, QCL, or “Heated Halo”) to measure any change in the cavity emissivity of the OARS.
(3) On-orbit Spectral Response Module (OSRM), a source for spectral response measurements using a nearly monochromatic QCL source configured to uniformly fill the sensor field-of-view.
(4) Dual Absolute Radiance Interferometers (DARI), providing spectral coverage from 3.3 to 50 μm that can be inter-compared to dissect any unexpected systematic errors in overlapping spectral regions.
ABB's GFI (Generic Flight Interferometer) has been selected as the favoured architecture for the DARI, mainly due to the maturity of the design and its space heritage. A GFI with commercial grade components was optimised for the selected spectral range. The architecture of the GFI will ensure a high response stability between calibrations.
High throughput, compact imaging spectrometer
P. Bianco, M. Pisani, M. Zucco
A novel hyperspectral imaging technique based on Fourier Transform analysis applied to a low finesse scanning Fabry-Perot (F-P) interferometer has been demonstrated in the visible and NIR regions. The technique allows the realization of a lightweight and compact instrument yet having high throughput with respect to classical instruments based on dispersive means. Experiments carried out in the visible region have demonstrated hyperspectral imaging capability with a spectral resolution of 2 nm @ 532 nm and an image resolution limited by the CCD (696x512 pixel). In the NIR (0,9-1,7 μm) region a spectral resolution of 8 nm @1064nm and an image resolution limited by the CCD (320x256 pixel) has been obtained. The potentiality in spectroscopic applications like remote gas sensing has been demonstrated as well as accurate thermal imaging capabilities. Unlike classical hyperspectral instruments, based on dispersive means or on tuneable band-pass filters, the efficiency of our F-P based system is very high (about 30% of the photons collected by the objective reach the CCD) allowing much faster and/or better quality hyperspectral images. In the present experiments the speed was by far limited by the acquisition speed of the CCD sensors. Furthermore the device is very compact and is placed between the objective and the CCD of a standard imaging system: in this configuration the field of view of the instrument is only limited by the same objective that in the present system is interchangeable. Because of its roughness, compactness, lightweight and luminous efficiency, the device is a good candidate for airborne or space borne hyperspectral applications.
Probing of Hermean Exosphere by ultraviolet spectroscopy: Instrument presentation, calibration philosophy and first lights results
J. F. Mariscal, N. Rouanet, J. L. Maria, E. Quémerais, P. O. Mine, P. Zuppella, M. Suman, P. Nicolosi, M. G. Pelizzo,et. al.
PHEBUS (Probing of Hermean Exosphere by Ultraviolet Spectroscopy) is a double spectrometer for the Extreme Ultraviolet range (55-155 nm) and the Far Ultraviolet range (145-315 nm) dedicated to the characterization of Mercury’s exosphere composition and dynamics, and surface-exosphere connections. PHEBUS is part of the ESA BepiColombo cornerstone mission payload devoted to the study of Mercury. The BepiColombo mission consists of two spacecrafts: the Mercury Magnetospheric Orbiter (MMO) and the Mercury Planetary Orbiter (MPO) on which PHEBUS will be mounted. PHEBUS is a French-led instrument implemented in a cooperative scheme involving Japan (detectors), Russia (scanner) and Italy (ground calibration). Before launch, PHEBUS team want to perform a full absolute calibration on ground, in addition to calibrations which will be made in-flight, in order to know the instrument’s response as precisely as possible. Instrument overview and calibration philosophy are introduced along with the first lights results observed by a first prototype.
Micromega IR, an infrared hyperspectral microscope for space exploration
C. Pilorget, J.-P. Bibring, M. Berthe, V. Hamm
The coupling between imaging and spectrometry has proved to be one of the most promising way to study remotely planetary objects [1][2]. The next step is to use this concept for in situ analyses. MicrOmega IR has been developed within this scope. It is an ultra miniaturized near-infrared hyperspectral microscope dedicated to in situ analyses, selected to be part of the ESA/ExoMars rover and RKA/Phobos Grunt lander payload. The goal of this instrument is to characterize the composition of samples at almost their grain size scale, in a nondestructive way. Coupled to the mapping information, it provides unique clues to trace back the history of the parent body (planet, satellite or small body) [3][4].
10565 Photonic Sensing and Fiber Cables
Fiber-optic sensor demonstrator (FSD) preliminary test results on PROBA-2
Roman V. Kruzelecky, Jing Zou, Emile Haddad, Wes Jamroz, Francesco Ricci, Eric Edwards, Iain McKenzie, Pierrik Vuilleumier
Fiber Sensor Demonstrator (FSD) developed by MPB Communications (MPBC) is the first demonstration of a full fiber-optic sensor network in the space environment on a satellite. FSD has been launched on ESA’s Proba-2 satellite in November 2009. FSD contains twelve temperature sensors to measure the temperature at different locations in the satellite, and one High-Temperature sensor to measure the transient high temperature in the thruster, as well as one pressure sensor to measure the xenon tank pressure. First set of on-orbit test data were obtained in January 2010. The FSD unit successfully established the communication with Proba-2. The temperature of FSD unit was also acquired through a AD590 sensor inside the unit. The measurements of all the optical fiber sensor lines will be evaluated after the testing results obtained. The FSD contains twelve specially-packaged FBG temperature sensors to measure the temperature at different locations in the propulsion system and the spacecraft over the range of −60°C to +120°C. A high-temperature sensor is provided to measure the transient temperature response of the thruster to beyond 350°C. There is also an innovative P/T sensor that provides both temperature and pressure measurements of the Xe propellant tank. The preliminary data of on-orbit functional testing and temperature measurements are provided mainly in Section 6.
Applications of FBG sensors on telecom satellites
S. Abad, F. M. Araújo, L. A. Ferreira, F. Pedersen, M. A. Esteban, I. McKenzie, N. Karafolas
Monitoring needs of spacecraft are rapidly increasing due to new and more challenging missions, along with demands to reduce launching costs by minimizing the manufacture, assembly, integration and test time and employing new low weight materials balanced by the need for maximizing system lifetime while maintaining good reliability. Conventional electronic sensors are characterized by their low multiplexing capability and their EMI/RF susceptibility and it is in this scenario that Fiber Optic Sensors (FOS) in general, and more specifically Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) technology offers important benefits, improving in various ways the already deployed sensing subsystems (e.g. reducing the weight associated with sensor cabling, increasing the number of sensing points) and enabling new monitoring applications that were not possible by using conventional sensing technologies.
This work presents the activities performed and the lessons learnt in the frame of ESA’s ARTES-5 project “Fiber Optic Sensing Subsystem for Spacecraft Health Monitoring in Telecommunication Satellites”. This project finished in July 2009, with the implementation and testing of two different demonstrators employing FBG sensor technology: FBG sensors for temperature monitoring in high voltage environments, and in particular in several parts of electric propulsion subsystems [1], and FBG sensors for thermal monitoring of array-antennas during RF testing [2].
In addition, the contacts performed with different actors within the space community allowed the identification of a special area of interest for the substitution of regular thermocouple instrumentation by FBG technology for thermal vacuum ground testing of satellites.
Development of fiber optic sensing interrogators for launchers
M. P. Plattner, T. C. Buck, B. Eder, A. Reutlinger, I. McKenzie
We present our work about the development of two complementary interrogation schemes based on fiber optic sensing for the use of structural and thermal monitoring of Ariane launchers. The advantages of fiber optic sensing in particular light-weight, immunity to electromagnetic interferences and the possibility of sensor distribution along optical fibers are driving factors for utilization of this technology in space crafts [1]. The edge-filter (EF) and scanning-laser (SL) interrogators for determination of the mean wavelength of fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensors have been implemented as two separate demonstrators. Within this paper we describe the functional principles of both interrogators. Furthermore we present test results where the developed systems have been used for readout of FBG sensors which are implemented in an Ariane structural demonstrator during thermal, thermal-vacuum and vibration tests. Functionality of both systems is demonstrated and their potential for further development towards space qualified systems is shown.
Since the performance characteristics of the two systems are different from each other, they are dedicated for different sensing applications on a launcher. The EF sensor interrogator provides a sample rate of 20 kHz at a number of 4 connected sensors and supports parallel readout and aliasing free operation. Therefore it is best suited for high priority measurement. Structural monitoring which requires the acquisition of real time sensor information in order to support control of the launcher is one operation area for a future EF system. The SL interrogator provides an overall measurement rate of 1 kHz at a number of 24 connected sensors distributed on three sensor channels. It can be adapted to any sensors that have design wavelengths lying within the output spectrum of the laser diode. Furthermore the number of overall sensors to be read out with this system can be adapted easily. Thermal mapping of satellite panels is one possible future application for the SL interrogator.
Development and qualification of a fiber optic cable for Martian environments
C. A. Lindensmith, W. T. Roberts, M. Meacham, M. N. Ott, F. LaRocca, W. J. Thomes
ChemCam is an instrument suite on the Mars Science Laboratory (MSL) mission that will launch to Mars in 2011. MSL is a rover-type lander that is capable of exploring large territories over the mission lifetime and includes a number of instruments for analysing rocks and soil. ChemCam includes a laser induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) [1] instrument that samples the surface chemistry of target objects within about 10 m of the rover without having to physically move to the target to obtain emission spectra in the 240 nm to 800 nm range. The ChemCam laser and sensing telescope are mounted on the rover Remote Sensing Mast (RSM) and have 360 degrees of azimuthal range, and 180 degrees of vertical range, allowing sampling of any object within range and line-of-sight of the mast top. This capability can be used to select targets for further analysis by other MSL instruments.
The LIBS portion of ChemCam is split between the top of the RSM and inside the rover body. The laser and the telescope are located atop the mast and rotate to select and observe targets. The three spectrometers (UV, VIS, and NIR) are located inside the rover body, along with a demultiplexer (demux) that splits the signal into the three bands. The signal from the telescope is transmitted to the demux by the fiber optic cable that is the subject of this paper. The fiber optic cable (FOC) is a single 5.7-m long, broadband, mult-mode fiber that connects the telescope and demux and is exposed to the full martian environment in some places and subjected to significant temperature gradients as it runs from interior areas to exterior areas.
Multi-mode optical fibers for connecting space-based spectrometers
W. T. Roberts, C. A. Lindenmisth, S. Bender, E. A. Miller, E. Motts, M. Ott, F. LaRocca, J. Thomes
Laser spectral analysis systems are increasingly being considered for in situ analysis of the atomic and molecular composition of selected rock and soil samples on other planets [1][2][3]. Both Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) and Raman spectroscopy are used to identify the constituents of soil and rock samples in situ. LIBS instruments use a high peak-power laser to ablate a minute area of the surface of a sample. The resulting plasma is observed with an optical head, which collects the emitted light for analysis by one or more spectrometers. By identifying the ion emission lines observed in the plasma, the constituent elements and their abundance can be deduced. In Raman spectroscopy, laser photons incident on the sample surface are scattered and experience a Raman shift, exchanging small amounts of energy with the molecules scattering the light. By observing the spectrum of the scattered light, it is possible to determine the molecular composition of the sample.
For both types of instruments, there are advantages to physically separating the light collecting optics from the spectroscopy optics. The light collection system will often have articulating or rotating elements to facilitate the interrogation of multiple samples with minimum expenditure of energy and motion. As such, the optical head is often placed on a boom or an appendage allowing it to be pointed in different directions or easily positioned in different locations. By contrast, the spectrometry portion of the instrument is often well-served by placing it in a more static location. The detectors often operate more consistently in a thermally-controlled environment. Placing them deep within the spacecraft structure also provides some shielding from ionizing radiation, extending the instrument’s useful life. Finally, the spectrometry portion of the instrument often contains significant mass, such that keeping it off of the moving portion of the platform, allowing that portion to be significantly smaller, less massive and less robust.
Large core multi-mode optical fibers are often used to accommodate the optical connection of the two separated portions of such instrumentation. In some cases, significant throughput efficiency improvement can be realized by judiciously orienting the strands of multi-fiber cable, close-bunching them to accommodate a tight focus of the optical system on the optical side of the connection, and splaying them out linearly along a spectrometer slit on the other end.
For such instrumentation to work effectively in identifying elements and molecules, and especially to produce accurate quantitative results, the spectral throughput of the optical fiber connection must be consistent over varying temperatures, over the range of motion of the optical head (and it’s implied optical cable stresses), and over angle-aperture invariant of the total system. While the first two of these conditions have been demonstrated[4], spectral observations of the latter present a cause for concern, and may have an impact on future design of fiber-connected LIBS and Raman spectroscopy instruments. In short, we have observed that the shape of the spectral efficiency curve of a large multi-mode core optical fiber changes as a function of input angle.
10565 Spectrometers II
SWIFTS: on-chip very high spectral resolution spectrometer
E. le Coarer, L. G. Venancio, P. Kern, J. Ferrand, P. Puget, M. Ayraud, C. Bonneville, B. Demonte, A. Morand,et. al.
The size and the weight of state of the art spectrometers is a serious issue regarding space applications. SWIFTS (Stationary Wave Integrated Fourier Transform Spectrometer) is a new FTS family without any moving part. This very promising technology is an original way to fully sample the Fourier interferogram obtained in a waveguide by either a reflection (SWIFTS Lippmann) or counter-propagative (SWIFTS Gabor) interference phenomenon. The sampling is simultaneously performed the optical path thanks to "nano-detectors" located in the evanescent field of the waveguide. For instance a 1.7cm long waveguide properly associated to the detector achieves directly a resolution of 0.13cm-1 on a few centimetre long instruments. Here, firstly we present the development status of this new kind of spectrometers and the first results obtained with on going development of spectrometer covering simultaneously the visible domain from 400 to 1000 nm like an Echelle spectrometer. Valuable technologies allows one to extend the concept to various wavelength domains. Secondly, we present the results obtained in the frame of an activity funded by the European Space Agency where several potential applications in space missions have been identified and studied.
SPEX: the Spectropolarimeter for Planetary Exploration
J. H. H. Rietjens, F. Snik, D. M. Stam, J. M. Smit, G. van Harten, C. U. Keller, A. L. Verlaan, E. C. Laan, R. ter Horst,et. al.
We present SPEX, the Spectropolarimeter for Planetary Exploration, which is a compact, robust and low-mass spectropolarimeter designed to operate from an orbiting or in situ platform. Its purpose is to simultaneously measure the radiance and the state (degree and angle) of linear polarization of sunlight that has been scattered in a planetary atmosphere and/or reflected by a planetary surface with high accuracy. The degree of linear polarization is extremely sensitive to the microphysical properties of atmospheric or surface particles (such as size, shape, and composition), and to the vertical distribution of atmospheric particles, such as cloud top altitudes. Measurements as those performed by SPEX are therefore crucial and often the only tool for disentangling the many parameters that describe planetary atmospheres and surfaces. SPEX uses a novel, passive method for its radiance and polarization observations that is based on a carefully selected combination of polarization optics. This method, called spectral modulation, is the modulation of the radiance spectrum in both amplitude and phase by the degree and angle of linear polarization, respectively. The polarization optics consists of an achromatic quarter-wave retarder, an athermal multiple-order retarder, and a polarizing beam splitter. We will show first results obtained with the recently developed prototype of the SPEX instrument, and present a performance analysis based on a dedicated vector radiative transport model together with a recently developed SPEX instrument simulator.
Spectrograph for solar imaging in the XUV domain
F. Frassetto, S. Coraggia, L. Poletto
A new concept for an imaging spectrograph operating at grazing incidence and stigmatic in a large field-of-view is presented. It can acquire both spectral and spatial information at the instrumental focal plane. The design is based on a crossed telescope and on a spherical variable-line-spaced grating. A laboratory prototype working in the spectral range 4–20 nm is presented.
A very demanding spectrometer optical design for ExoMars Mission
T. Belenguer, M. Fernandez-Rodriguez, M. Colombo, E. Diaz-Catalá, J. Sanchez-Páramo
Proc. SPIE 10565, International Conference on Space Optics — ICSO 2010, 105651E (20 November 2017); doi: 10.1117/12.2309128
The objective of this report is to present the study performed for a specially demanding solution of a spectrometer [1] design based on a transmissive holographic grating especially designed to actuate as the dispersion element. The main driver of the design has been to obtain a device with a clear reduction in mass, power and mechanical envelope with respect to the previous configuration based on a prism and/or Echelle grating. This simplification is produced mainly at expense of the waveband range. This study has been carried out by Laboratorio de Instrumentación Espacial (LINES) optical designers from Instituto Nacional de Técnica Aeroespacial (INTA).
10565 Photonic Specialty Applications
TESAT laser communication terminal performance results on 5.6Gbit coherent inter satellite and satellite to ground links
M. Gregory, F. Heine, H. Kämpfner, R. Meyer, R. Fields, C. Lunde
The increasing demand on high speed communication networks has stimulated the development of optical free space data transmission during the last years. TESAT has developed a laser communication terminal (LCT) that fulfills the need of a power efficient system whose capability has been successfully demonstrated at bidirectional space-to-space links and bidirectional space-to-ground links (SGLs) at a data rate of 5.625 GBit/s with a homodyne detection scheme and a BPSK modulation format. In comparison to a direct detection system, the homodyne detection scheme works as a bandpass filter. The transmission is immune to false light and even data transmission with the sun in the receiver field of view (FOV) is possible.
Compared to common RF transmission which is implemented on spacecrafts for data transmission, optical transmission provides not only higher transmission rates (factor 10) but also shows excellent security features since the laser beams directivity making it immune to interception.
Transceiver optics for interplanetary communications
W. T. Roberts, W. H. Farr, B. Rider, D. Sampath
In-situ interplanetary science missions constantly push the spacecraft communications systems to support successively higher downlink rates. However, the highly restrictive mass and power constraints placed on interplanetary spacecraft significantly limit the desired bandwidth increases in going forward with current radio frequency (RF) technology. To overcome these limitations, we have evaluated the ability of free-space optical communications systems to make substantial gains in downlink bandwidth, while holding to the mass and power limits allocated to current state-of-the-art Ka-band communications systems.
A primary component of such an optical communications system is the optical assembly, comprised of the optical support structure, optical elements, baffles and outer enclosure. We wish to estimate the total mass that such an optical assembly might require, and assess what form it might take. Finally, to ground this generalized study, we should produce a conceptual design, and use that to verify its ability to achieve the required downlink gain, estimate it’s specific optical and opto-mechanical requirements, and evaluate the feasibility of producing the assembly.
Opto-pyrotechnics for space applications
Y. Lien, G. Thoen, O. Grasvik, J. Bru, K. Paulsen, L. O. Lierstuen, B. Chamayou, D. Pinard, I. McKenzie
Pyrotechnics is in widespread use in both launchers and satellites. The devices are relatively simple, light and compact and provide near-instantaneous response with very little input energy.
Fiber optic cables for transmission of high-power laser pulses in spaceflight applications
W. J. Thomes Jr., M. N. Ott, R. F. Chuska, R. C. Switzer, D. E. Blair
Lasers with high peak power pulses are commonly used in spaceflight missions for a wide range of applications, from LIDAR systems to optical communications. Due to the high optical power needed, the laser has to be located on the exterior of the satellite or coupled through a series of free space optics. This presents challenges for thermal management, radiation resistance, and mechanical design. Future applications will require multiple lasers located close together, which further complicates the design. Coupling the laser energy into a fiber optic cable allows the laser to be relocated to a more favorable position on the spacecraft. Typical fiber optic termination procedures are not sufficient for injection of these high-power laser pulses without catastrophic damage to the fiber endface. In the current study, we will review the causes of fiber damage during high-power injection and discuss our new manufacturing procedures that overcome these issues to permit fiber use with high reliability in these applications. We will also discuss the proper methods for launching the laser pulses into the fiber to avoid damage and how this is being implemented for current spaceflight missions.
Wide band continuous all-fiber comb generator at 1.5 micron
François Lemaître, Linda Mondin, X. Orlik
We present an all-fiber continuous optical frequency comb-generator (OFCG) able to generate over 6 nm (750 GHz) at 1560 nm using a combination of electro-optic and acousto-optic modulations. As opposed to numerous experimental setups that use the longitudinal modes of an optical cavity to generate continuous optical frequency combs, our setup doesn’t need any active stabilization of the cavity length since we use the intrinsically high stability of radiofrequency sources to generate the multiple lines of the comb laser. Moreover, compared to the work of ref [1], the hybrid optical modulation we use allows to suppress the problem of instability due interferences between the generated lines. We notice that these lines benefit from the spectral quality of the seed laser because the spectral width of the synthesized hyperfrequency and radiofrequency signals are generally narrower than laser sources.
10565 Spectrometers III
One-year operation of TANSO-FTS on GOSAT and follow-on mission feasibility
Kei Shiomi, Masakatsu Nakajima, Akihiko Kuze, Toshiaki Takeshima, Shuji Kawakami, Hiroshi Suto
The Greenhouse gases Observing SATellite (GOSAT) was developed to contribute to monitoring of carbon dioxide and methane from space [1]. The mission objectives are global greenhouse gas measurements from space with precision of 1 % for CO2 and 2 % for CH4 in seasonal mean. The GOSAT carries Thermal And Near infrared Sensor for carbon Observation (TANSO) for precise measurement of greenhouse gases. Main instrument is Fourier Transfer Spectrometer (TANSO-FTS) to observe atmospheric absorption spectra of CO2 and CH4 with high spectral resolution of 0.2 cm-1, broad wavelength coverage of 0.76 − 14.3 microns, wide swath of 790 km and frequent revisit of 3 days. Cloud and Aerosol Imager (TANSO-CAI) is simultaneously on board for cloud detection and correction of optical thin cirrus and aerosol interference within the FTS instantaneous field of view. The GOSAT satellite was launched by H2A-15 rocket on January 23, 2009. The Level 1B products of calibrated spectra were released from September 2009 in public. The Level 2 products of CO2 and CH4 column densities were released from February 2010 [2]. The normal observation data is acquired over one year regularly from April 2009. The mission lifetime is 5 years.
FIMAS: feasibility study of a fluorescence imaging spectrometer to be flown on a small platform in tandem with Sentinel 3
S. Kraft, B. Carnicero Dominguez, M. Drusch, J.-L. Bézy, R. Meynart
Resulting from a call for ideas for the 7th Earth Explorer mission, the Fluorescence Explorer (FLEX) mission [1] was selected for assessment as one of the six Earth Explorer missions to be studied within Phase 0. After the review of the study outcome by the Earth Science Advisory Committee (ESAC), FLEX was not selected for Phase A study. Although not selected, ESAC has expressed a clear recommendation to make an in-orbit demonstration of the measurement of vegetation fluorescence from space. Since FLEX involved four different instruments that would be required by an autonomous satellite to measure the chlorophyll fluorescence signal and to make the necessary atmospheric corrections, a new strategy has been proposed, which should make use of existing missions. The aim of this feasibility study is to identify a suitable instrument concept that is compatible with the expected resource limitations.
Applications of immersed diffraction gratings in Earth observation from space
D. R. Lobb, I. S. Bhatti
A number of Earth-observation missions, particularly those aimed at monitoring atmosphere composition, require hyperspectral instruments measuring Earth reflectance and emission at very fine spectral resolution. Examples include instruments for ESA’s Sentinel 5 mission, operating in the short-wave IR (SWIR) spectral region to quantify greenhouse gases, and also in the near-IR region (Oxygen-A band) to provide data on clouds, aerosols and atmosphere pressure. Conventional dispersive spectrometers, typically using diffraction gratings, are needed to provide data at moderate spatial resolution over large swath widths. Fine spectral resolution, together with the system aperture needed for radiometric resolution, tends to demand large beam diameters at gratings; this can lead to excessively large spectrometers, driven by the apertures of gratings and the associated collimators and camera lenses. This presents problems for accommodation of space-based spectrometers, particularly on small platforms.
Apertures, and complete spectrometer sizes, are reduced if the gratings provide high angular spectral dispersion (radians/nm) – this is a property of “immersed” gratings 1,2. An immersed grating is a reflecting grating formed on a prism of refracting material, in which the incident and diffracted beams are both in the refracting medium. Instruments will typically use immersed gratings in silicon for short-wave IR bands, and silica for near-IR bands. This paper describes example designs for spectrometers using immersed gratings, and early results from a current development of immersed gratings are outlined.
10565 Optical Subsystem and Technologies
Development of a large blazed transmission grating by effective binary index modulation for the GAIA radial velocity spectrometer
M. Erdmann, E.-B. Kley, U. Zeitner
Gaia is an ambitious ESA mission to chart a three-dimensional map of our Galaxy, the Milky Way, in the process revealing the composition, formation and evolution of the Galaxy. Gaia will provide unprecedented positional and radial velocity measurements with the accuracies needed to produce a stereoscopic and cinematic census of about one billion stars in our Galaxy. The payload consists of 2 Three Mirror Anastigmat (TMA) telescopes (aperture size ∼1.5 m x 0.5 m), 3 instruments (astrometer, photometer and spectrometer) and 106 butted CCDs assembled to a 0.9 Giga-Pixel focal plane.
The Radial Velocity Spectrometer (RVS) of Gaia measures the red shift of the stars in the spectral band between 847 nm and 874 nm. The spectrometer is a fully refractive optics consisting of 2 Fery prisms, 2 prisms, a pass band filter and a blazed transmission grating (instrument mass about 30 kg). It is located in the vicinity of the focal plane and illuminates 12 of the 106 Charge Coupled Devices (CCDs).
Gaia is in the implementation phase, the launch of the 2120 kg mass satellite is planned in Dec. 2012.
Innovative optical techniques used in the Raman instrument for ExoMars
S. Ferrando, M. Galán, H. Thiele, M. Glier, M. Goepel
The optical part of the Raman Laser Spectrometer (RLS) instrument for ExoMars consists of an excitation laser, an optical harness, an optical head and a spectrometre. The optical harness delivers the green radiation generated by the laser to the optical head which, in turn, focuses the laser radiation on the sample of interest and collects the Raman emission from the sample. The optical head then separates excitation light and Raman emission by a filter setup and sends the isolated Raman signal to a reception fiber, which delivers it to the spectrometer of the instrument. This paper concentrates on the innovative technologies applied for the excitation path of the instrument, the laser, the optical harness with its new compact fiber optic connectors and the Raman optical head; and describes their design, the design driving requirements and the status these units have reached by now. The spectrometer of the system with its transmission grating design will be presented separately.
Parameter design and experimental study of a bifunctional isolator for optical payload protection and stabilization
Guang-yuan Wang, Xin Guan, Dong-jing Cao, Shao-fan Tang, Xiang Chen, Lu Liang, Gang-tie Zheng
With the raise of resolution, optical payloads are becoming increasingly sensitive to satellite jitter. An approach where the entire spacecraft is pointed with great accuracy requires sophisticated and expensive bus design. In an effort to lower the overall cost of space missions that require highly stable line-of-sight pointing, a method of separating the bus and the payload with low frequency isolators is proposed. This isolation system can block the transmission of disturbance and allow relatively large bus motion. However, if the isolator is linear then there is a trade-off between isolation and static deflection as the launch and the on-orbit stage have difference requirements on the isolation frequency. Otherwise, an extra locking system should be appended to protect the payload before getting into orbit, as the STABLE isolation system[1] and the MIM isolation system[2] did.
To overcome this limitation, an alternative approach is to design a nonlinear isolator with high-static stiffness during launch and low dynamic stiffness on orbit. Several specially designed nonlinear isolators have achieved low dynamic stiffness with large static load capacity. Virgin[3] considered a structure made from a highly deformed elastic element to achieve a softening spring. Platus[4] exploited the buckling of beams under axial load in a specific configuration to achieve a negative stiffness in combination with a positive stiffness, and hence low-dynamic stiffness. Others have achieved the same by connecting linear springs with positive stiffness in parallel with elements of negative stiffness[5]~[7].
In the present study, a bifunctional isolator has been developed for optical payloads. The isolator have good performance both during launch and on orbit because of its specially designed nonlinear stiffness and damping. The isolator works in a linear part with low stiffness and small damping ratio under the micro-vibration and microgravity on orbit. The transmissibility requirement and the displacement restriction during launch are satisfied by tuning the nonlinear stiffness and damping parameters. A group of sample isolators are designed tested both statically and dynamically.
Experimental demonstration of 1.5Hz passive isolation system for precision optical payloads
Xin Guan, Guang-yuan Wang, Dong-jing Cao, Shao-fan Tang, Xiang Chen, Lu Liang, Gang-tie Zheng
The ground resolution of remote sensing satellite has been raised from hundreds of meters to less than one meter in recent few decades. As a result, the precision optical payload becomes more and more sensitive to structure vibrations of satellite buses. Although these vibrations generally have extremely low magnitude, they can result in significant image quality degradation to an optical payload. The suggestion of using vibration isolators to isolate payload from the satellite bus has been put forward in 1980s’[1]. Recently, WorldView-2 achieved its perfect image quality via using a set of low frequency isolators[2]. Recently, some of the optical payload manufacturers begin to provide vibration isolators as standard parts together with their main products . During the prototype testing of an earth resource satellite, the image of the optical payload was found to jitter for 5~10 pixels due to disturbances transmitted from the satellite bus structure. Test results indicated that the acceleration level of the vibration was of mG magnitude. To solve the problem, a highly sensitive vibration isolation system was developed to reduce the transmission of disturbances. Integrated isolation performance tests showed that the image jitter can be decreased to below 0.3 pixels.
ASPIICS/PROBA-3 formation flying solar coronagraph: Stray light analysis and optimization of the occulter
F. Landini, A. Mazzoli, M. Venet, S. Vivès, M. Romoli, P. Lamy, G. Massone
The “Association de Satellites Pour l'Imagerie et l'Interferometrie de la Couronne Solaire”, ASPIICS, selected by ESA for the PROBA-3 mission, heralds the next generation of coronagraph for solar research, exploiting formation flying to gain access to the inner corona under eclipse-like conditions for long periods of time. A detailed description of the ASPIICS instrument and of its scientific objectives can be found in [1].
ASPIICS is distributed on the two PROBA 3 spacecrafts (S/C) separated by 150 m. The coronagraph optical assembly is hosted by the “coronagraph S/C” protected from direct solar disk light by the occulting disk on the “occulter S/C”.
The most critical issue in the design of a solar coronagraph is the reduction of the stray light due to the diffraction and scattering of the solar disk light by the occulter, the aperture and the optics. In the present article, we deal with two of these issues:
- The analysis of the stray light inside the telescope.
- The optimization of the external occulter edge, in order to eliminate the Poisson spot behind the occulter and to lower the stray light level going through the entrance pupil of the telescope.
This work was performed in the framework of the ESA STARTIGER program which took place at the Laboratoire d’Astrophysique de Marseille (LAM) during a 6-month period from September 2009 to March 2010.
In general, it is a very complicated task to combine the above two stray light issues together in the simulation and design phase as it requires to consider the propagation inside the telescope of the light diffracted by the external occulter. Actually, the present literature only reports diffraction calculations performed for simple occulting systems (i.e., two disks and serrated disk). A more pragmatic approach, also driven by the tight schedule of the STARTIGER program, is to separate the two contributions, and perform two different stray light analyses. This paper is dedicated to the description of both analyses: in particular, the first part is dedicated to the evaluation of the stray light inside the telescope, assuming a simple disk as occulter, and a preliminary baffle design is presented; the second part describes the investigation on the geometry of the external occulter, with a detailed description of the laboratory setup that has been designed and implemented to compare together several types of occulting systems.
Precision mechanisms for optics in a vacuum cryogenic environment
R. Navarro, E. Elswijk, N. Tromp, J. Kragt, G. Kroes, H. Hanenburg, M. de Haan, M. Schuil, M. Teuwen,et. al.
To achieve superb stability in cryogenic optical systems, NOVA-ASTRON generally designs optical instruments on the basis of a 'no adjustments' philosophy. This means that in principle no corrections are possible after assembly. The alignment precision and consequently the performance of the instrument is guaranteed from the design, the tolerance analysis and the detailed knowledge of the material behavior and manufacturing process. This resulted in a higher degree of integrated optomechanical-cryogenic design with fewer parts, but with a higher part complexity. The 'no adjustments' strategy is successful because in the end the risk on instrument performance and project delays is much reduced. Astronomical instrument specifications have become more challenging over the years. Recent designs of the European Southern Observatory Very Large Telescope Interferometer (ESO VLTI) 4 Telescope combiner MATISSE include hundreds of optical components in a cryogenic environment. Despite the large number of optical components the alignment accuracy and stability requirements are in the order of nanometers. The 'no adjustments' philosophy would be too costly in this case, because all components would need to meet extremely tight manufacturing specifications. These specifications can be relaxed dramatically if cryogenic mechanisms are used for alignment. Several mechanisms have been developed: a tip-tilt mirror mechanism, an optical path distance mechanism, a slider mechanism, a bistable cryogenic shutter and a mirror mounting clip. Key aspects of these mechanisms are that the optical element and mechanism are combined in a compact single component, driven by e.g. self braking piezo actuators in order to hold position without power. The design, realization and test results of several mechanisms are presented in this paper.
10565 Imaging
The EarthCARE multi spectral imager thermal infrared optical unit
M. P. J. L. Chang, D. Woods, Guy Baister, Dan Lobb, Trevor Wood
The EarthCARE satellite mission objective is the observation of clouds and aerosols from low Earth orbit. The key spatial context providing instrument within the payload suite of 4 instruments is the Multi-Spectral Imager (MSI), previously described in [1]. The MSI is intended to provide information on the horizontal variability of the atmospheric conditions and to identify e.g. cloud type, textures, and temperature. It will form Earth images at 500m ground sample distance (GSD) over a swath width of 150km; it will image Earth in 7 spectral bands: one visible, one near-IR, two short-wave IR and three thermal IR. The instrument will be comprised of two key parts:
• a visible-NIR-SWIR (VNS) optical unit radiometrically calibrated using a sun illuminated quasivolume diffuser and shutter system
• a thermal IR (TIR) optical unit radiometrically calibrated using cold space and an internal black-body. This paper, being the first of a sequence of two, will provide an overview of the MSI and enter into more detail the critical performance parameters and detailed design the MSI TIR optical design.
The TIR concept is to provide pushbroom imaging of its 3 bands through spectral separation from a common aperture. The result is an efficient, well controlled optical design without the need for multiple focal plane arrays. The designed focal plane houses an area array detector and will meet a challenging set of requirements, including radiometric resolution, accuracy, distortion and MTF.
The visible, near-infrared and short wave infrared channels of the EarthCARE multi-spectral imager
J. Doornink, B. de Goeij, O. Marinescu, E. Meijer, R. Vink, W. van Werkhoven, A. van ‘t Hof
Proc. SPIE 10565, International Conference on Space Optics — ICSO 2010, 105651U (20 November 2017); doi: 10.1117/12.2309153
The EarthCARE satellite mission objective is the observation of clouds and aerosols from low Earth orbit. The payload will include active remote sensing instruments being the W-band Cloud Profiling Radar (CPR) and the ATLID LIDAR. These are supported by the passive instruments Broadband Radiometer (BBR) and the Multispectral Imager (MSI) providing the radiometric and spatial context of the ground scene being probed. The MSI will form Earth images over a swath width of 150 km; it will image the Earth atmosphere in 7 spectral bands. The MSI instrument consists of two parts: the Visible, Near infrared and Short wave infrared (VNS) unit, and the Thermal InfraRed (TIR) unit. Subject of this paper is the VNS unit.
In the VNS optical unit, the ground scene is imaged in four spectral bands onto four linear detectors via separate optical channels. Driving requirements for the VNS instrument performance are the spectral sensitivity including out-of-band rejection, the MTF, co-registration and the inter-channel radiometric accuracy. The radiometric accuracy performance of the VNS is supported by in-orbit calibration, in which direct solar radiation is fed into the instrument via a set of quasi volume diffusers.
The compact optical concept with challenging stability requirements together with the strict thermal constraints have led to a sophisticated opto-mechanical design.
This paper, being the second of a sequence of two on the Multispectral Imager describes the VNS instrument concept chosen to fulfil the performance requirements within the resource and accommodation constraints.
Geo-oculus: high resolution multi-spectral earth imaging mission from geostationary orbit
L. Vaillon, U. Schull, T. Knigge, C. Bevillon
Geo-Oculus is a GEO-based Earth observation mission studied by Astrium for ESA in 2008-2009 to complement the Sentinel missions, the space component of the GMES (Global Monitoring for Environment & Security). Indeed Earth imaging from geostationary orbit offers new functionalities not covered by existing LEO observation missions, like real-time monitoring and fast revisit capability of any location within the huge area in visibility of the satellite. This high revisit capability is exploited by the Meteosat meteorogical satellites, but with a spatial resolution (500 m nadir for the third generation) far from most of GMES needs (10 to 100 m). To reach such ground resolution from GEO orbit with adequate image quality, large aperture instruments (> 1 m) and high pointing stability (<< 1 μrad) are required, which are the major challenges of such missions.
To address the requirements from the GMES user community, the Geo-Oculus mission is a combination of routine observations (daily systematic coverage of European coastal waters) with "on-demand" observation for event monitoring (e.g. disasters, fires and oil slicks). The instrument is a large aperture imaging telescope (1.5 m diameter) offering a nadir spatial sampling of 10.5 m (21 m worst case over Europe, below 52.5°N) in a PAN visible channel used for disaster monitoring. The 22 multi-spectral channels have resolutions over Europe ranging from 40 m in UV/VNIR (0.3 to 1 μm) to 750 m in TIR (10-12 μm).
Stray light rejection in giant externally-occulted solar coronagraphs: experimental developments
M. Venet, C. Bazin, S. Koutchmy, P. Lamy
Proc. SPIE 10565, International Conference on Space Optics — ICSO 2010, 105651W (5 January 2018); doi: 10.1117/12.2309186
The advent of giant, formation-flight, externally-occulted solar coronagraphs such as ASPIICS (Association de Satellites Pour l’Imagerie et l’Interférométrie de la Couronne Solaire [1,2,3,4]) selected by the European Space Agency (ESA) for its third PROBA (Project for On-Board Autonomy) mission of formation flying demonstration (presently in phase B) and Hi-RISE proposed in the framework of ESA Cosmic Vision program, presents formidable challenges for the study and calibration of instrumental stray light. With distances between the external occulter (EO) and the optical pupil (OP) exceeding hundred meters and occulter sizes larger than a meter, it becomes impossible to perform tests at the real scale. The requirement to limit the over-occultation to less than 1.05 Rsun, orders of magnitude to what has been achieved so far in past coronagraphs, further adds to the challenge. We are approaching the problem experimentally using reduced scale simulators and present below a progress report of our work.
10565 Deployable Telescopes
Technological developments for ultra-lightweight, large aperture, deployable mirror for space telescopes
Alessandro Zuccaro Marchi, Francesco D'Amato, Daniele Gallieni, Roberto Biasi, Marco Molina, Fabrizio Duò, Nikolaus Ruder, Piero Salinari, Franco Lisi,et. al.
The increasing interest on space telescopes for scientific applications leads to implement the manufacturing technology of the most critical element, i.e. the primary mirror: being more suitable a large aperture, it must be lightweight and deployable. The presented topic was originally addressed to a spaceborne DIAL (Differential Absorption LIDAR) mission operating at 935.5 nm for the measurement of water vapour profile in atmosphere, whose results were presented at ICSO 2006 and 2008.
Aim of this paper is to present the latest developments on the main issues related to the fabrication of a breadboard, covering two project critical areas identified during the preliminary studies: the design and performances of the long-stroke actuators used to implement the mirror active control and the mirror survivability to launch via Electrostatic Locking (EL) between mirror and backplane. The described work is developed under the ESA/ESTEC contract No. 22321/09/NL/RA.
The lightweight mirror is structured as a central sector surrounded by petals, all of them actively controlled to reach the specified shape after initial deployment and then maintained within specs for the entire mission duration. The presented study concerns: a) testing the Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) backplane manufacturing and EL techniques, with production of suitable specimens; b) actuator design optimisation; c) design of the deployment mechanism including a high precision latch; d) the fabrication of thin mirrors mock-ups to validate the fabrication procedure for the large shells.
The current activity aims to the construction of an optical breadboard capable of demonstrating the achievement of all these coupled critical aspects: optical quality of the thin shell mirror surface, actuators performances and back-plane - EL subsystem functionality.
Large aperture telescope technology: a design for an active lightweight multi-segmented fold-out space mirror
S. J. Thompson, A. P. Doel, M. Whalley, R. Edeson, R. Edeson, I. Tosh, O. Poyntz-Wright, E. Atad-Ettedgui, D. Montgomery,et. al.
Large aperture telescope technology (LATT) is a design study for a differential lidar (DIAL) system; the main investigation being into suitable methods, technologies and materials for a 4-metre diameter active mirror that can be stowed to fit into a typical launch vehicle (e.g. ROKOT launcher with ∼ 2.1-metre diameter cargo) and can self-deploy – in terms of both leaving the space vehicle and that the mirrors unfold and self-align to the correct optical form within the tolerances specified. The primary mirror requirements are: main wavelength of 935.5 nm, RMS corrected wavefront error of λ/6, optical surface roughness better than 5 nm, areal density of less than 16 kg/m2 and 1-2 mirror shape corrections per orbit. The primary mirror consists of 7 segments - a central hexagonal mirror and 6 square mirror petals which unfold to form the 4-meter diameter aperture. The focus of the UK LATT consortium for this European Space Agency (ESA) funded project is on using lightweighted aluminium or carbon-fibre-composite materials for the mirror substrate in preference to more traditional materials such as glass and ceramics; these materials have a high strength and stiffness to weight ratio, significantly reducing risk of damage due to launch forces and subsequent deployment in orbit.
We present an overview of the design, which includes suitable actuators for wavefront correction, petal deployment mechanisms and lightweight mirror technologies. Preliminary testing results from manufactured lightweight mirror samples will also be summarised.
Space active optics: in flight aberrations correction for the next generation of large space telescopes
M. Laslandes, M. Ferrari, E. Hugot, G. Lemaitre
The need for both high quality images and light structures is a constant concern in the conception of space telescopes. In this paper, we present an active optics system as a way to fulfill those two objectives. Indeed, active optics consists in controlling mirrors’ deformations in order to improve the images quality [1]. The two main applications of active optics techniques are the in-situ compensation of phase errors in a wave front by using a corrector deformable mirror [2] and the manufacturing of aspherical mirrors by stress polishing or by in-situ stressing [3]. We will focus here on the wave-front correction. Indeed, the next generation of space telescopes will have lightweight primary mirrors; in consequence, they will be sensitive to the environment variations, inducing optical aberrations in the instrument.
An active optics system is principally composed of a deformable mirror, a wave front sensor, a set of actuators deforming the mirror and control/command electronics. It is used to correct the wave-front errors due to the optical design, the manufacturing imperfections, the large lightweight primary mirrors’ deflection in field gravity, the fixation devices, and the mirrors and structures’ thermal distortions due to the local turbulence [4]. Active optics is based on the elasticity theory [5]; forces and/or load are used to deform a mirror. Like in adaptive optics, actuators can simply be placed under the optical surface [1,2], but other configurations have also been studied: a system’s simplification, inducing a minimization of the number of actuators can be achieved by working on the mirror design [5]. For instance, in the so called Vase form Multimode Deformable Mirror [6], forces are applied on an external ring clamped on the pupil. With this method, there is no local effect due to the application of forces on the mirror’s back face. Furthermore, the number of actuators needed to warp the mirror does not depend on the pupil size; it is a fully scalable configuration.
The insertion of a Vase form Multimode Deformable Mirror on the design of an optical instrument will allow correcting the most common low spatial frequency aberrations. This concept could be applied in a space telescope. A Finite Element Analysis of the developed model has been conducted in order to characterize the system’s behavior and to validate the concept.
Optical design constrains in triangular Sagnac imaging interferometers for earth observation
A. Barducci, D. Guzzi, C. Lastri, V. Nardino, I. Pippi
The Italian Space Agency selected the imaging interferometer ALISEO (Aerospace Leap-frog Imaging Stationary interferometer for Earth Observation) as the main payload for a technological optical mission based on the small satellite MIOsat. The simple design of such an instrument, based on Sagnac configuration, makes it a promising for Earth observation missions.
The ALISEO instrument acquires an image of 10 Km by 10 Km with a spatial resolution better than 10 m and a spectral resolution of 200 cm-1 (7 nm @ 0.6 μm) in the 0.4 – 1 μm spectral range.
ALISEO does not employ any moving part to generate the phase delays between the two interfering beams. The sensor acquires target images modulated by a pattern of autocorrelation functions of the energy coming from each scene pixel, and the resulting fringe pattern remains fixed with respect to the instrument’s field-of-view. The complete interferogram of each target location is retrieved by introducing a relative source-observer motion, which allows any image pixels to be observed under different viewing-angles corresponding to different Optical Path Differences (OPDs).
In this paper various optical configurations are analyzed in order to meet the mission requirements. Optical configurations are discussed taking into account: detector size, spatial resolution, and entrance pupil aperture. The proposed configurations should avoid vignetting, reduce geometric and chromatic aberrations, and comply with the size and weight constrains requested by space mission. Optical configurations, based on both refractive and reflective focusing elements, are presented and discussed. Finally, some properties pertaining to the selected Sagnac configuration are discussed in conjunction with spectral estimations and data processing.
10565 Qualification of O/E Technologies
Space evaluation of a MOEMs device for space instrumentation
Frederic Zamkotsian, Kyrre Tangen, Patrick Lanzoni, Emmanuel Grassi, Rudy Barette, Christophe Fabron, Luca Valenziano, Laurent Marchand, Ludovic Duvet
Large field of view surveys with a high density of objects such as high-z galaxies or stars benefit of multi-object spectroscopy (MOS) technique. This technique is the best approach to eliminate the problem of spectral confusion, to optimize the quality and the SNR of the spectra, to reach fainter limiting fluxes and to maximize the scientific return. Next generation MOS for space like the Near Infrared Multi-Object Spectrograph (NIRSpec) for the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) require a programmable multi-slit mask. The European EUCLID mission has also considered a MOS instrument in its early study phase. Conventional masks or complex fiber-optics-based mechanisms are not attractive for space. The programmable multi-slit mask requires remote control of the multi-slit configuration in real time. A promising possible solution is the use of MOEMS devices such as micromirror arrays (MMA) [1,2,3] or micro-shutter arrays (MSA) [4]. MMAs are designed for generating reflecting slits, while MSAs generate transmissive slits. MSA has been selected to be the multi-slit device for NIRSpec and is under development at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center. In Europe, an effort is currently under way to develop single-crystalline silicon micromirror arrays for future generation infrared multi-object spectroscopy [5]. By placing the programmable slit mask in the focal plane of the telescope, the light from selected objects is directed toward the spectrograph, while the light from other objects and from the sky background is blocked.
Visitech is an engineering company experienced in developing DMD solution for industrial customers. The Laboratoire d’Astrophysique de Marseille (LAM) has, over several years, developed different tools for modeling and characterization of MOEMS-based slit masks, especially during the design studies on JWSTNIRSpec [6,7]. ESA has engaged with Visitech and LAM in a technical assessment of using a Digital Micromirror Devices (DMD) from Texas Instruments for space applications (for example in ESA EUCLID mission). The DMD features 2048 x 1080 mirrors on a 13.68μm mirror pitch (left-hand side of Fig. 1). Typical operational parameters of this device are room temperature, atmospheric pressure and mirrors switching thousands of times in a second, while for MOS applications in space, the device should work in vacuum, at low temperature, and each MOS exposure would last for typically 1500s with micromirrors held in a static state (either ON or OFF) during that duration. A specific thermal / vacuum test chamber has been developed for test conditions down to -40°C at 10-5 mbar vacuum. Imaging capability for resolving each micro-mirror has also been developed for determining any single mirror failure. Dedicated electronics and software allows us to hold any pattern on the DMD for duration of up to 1500s.
We present the summary of this ESA study, the electronic test vehicle as well as the cold temperature test set-up we have developed. Then, results of tests in vacuum at low temperature, including low temperature stress test, low temperature nominal test, thermal cycling, and life test are presented. Results after radiation (TID and proton), and vibration and shock are also shown.
Effects of thermal deformation on optical instruments for space application
E. Segato, V. Da Deppo, S. Debei, G. Cremonese
Optical instruments for space missions work in hostile environment, it’s thus necessary to accurately study the effects of ambient parameters variations on the equipment.
In particular optical instruments are very sensitive to ambient conditions, especially temperature. This variable can cause dilatations and misalignments of the optical elements, and can also lead to rise of dangerous stresses in the optics. Their displacements and the deformations degrade the quality of the sampled images.
In this work a method for studying the effects of the temperature variations on the performance of imaging instrument is presented. The optics and their mountings are modeled and processed by a thermo-mechanical Finite Element Model (FEM) analysis, then the output data, which describe the deformations of the optical element surfaces, are elaborated using an ad hoc MATLAB routine: a non-linear least square optimization algorithm is adopted to determine the surface equations (plane, spherical, nth polynomial) which best fit the data. The obtained mathematical surface representations are then directly imported into ZEMAX for sequential raytracing analysis. The results are the variations of the Spot Diagrams, of the MTF curves and of the Diffraction Ensquared Energy due to simulated thermal loads.
This method has been successfully applied to the Stereo Camera for the BepiColombo mission reproducing expected operative conditions.
The results help to design and compare different optical housing systems for a feasible solution and show that it is preferable to use kinematic constraints on prisms and lenses to minimize the variation of the optical performance of the Stereo Camera.
Evaluation of 2.1μm DFB lasers for space applications
J. Barbero, D. López, I. Esquivias, J. M. G. Tijero, M. Fischer, K. Roessner, J. Koeth, M. Zahir
This paper presents the results obtained in the frame of an ESA-funded project called “Screening and Preevaluation of Shortwave Infrared Laser Diode for Space Application” with the objective of verifying the maturity of state of the art SWIR DFB lasers at 2.1μm to be used for space applications (mainly based on the occultation measurement principle and spectroscopy). The paper focus on the functional and environmental evaluation test plan. It includes high precision characterization, mechanical test (vibration and SRS shocks), thermal cycling, gamma and proton radiation tests, life test and some details of the Destructive Physical Analysis performed. The electro-optical characterization includes measurements of the tuning capabilities of the laser both by current and by temperature, the wavelength stability and the optical power versus laser current.
Laser-induced contamination control for high-power lasers in space-based LIDAR missions
Jorge Alves, Federico Pettazzi, Adrian Tighe, Denny Wernham
In the framework of the ADM-Aeolus satellite mission, successful test campaigns have been performed in ESTEC’s laser laboratory, and the efficiency of several mitigation techniques against Laser-Induced Contamination (LIC) have been demonstrated for the ALADIN laser. These techniques include the standard contamination control methods of materials identification with particular tendency to cause LIC, reduction of the outgassing of organic materials by vacuum bake-out and shielding of optical surfaces from the contamination sources. Also novel mitigation methods such as in-situ cleaning via partial pressures, or the usage of molecular absorbers were demonstrated. In this context, a number of highly sensitive optical measurement techniques have been developed and tested to detect and monitor LIC deposits at nanometre level.
10565 Mirror Manufacturing and Testing
NANOMEFOS non-contact measurement machine for aspheric and freeform optics
R. Henselmans, G. P. H. Gubbels, C. van Drunen, B. van Venrooy, J.A.P. Leijtens
Applying freeform optics in high-end optical systems can improve system performance while decreasing the system mass, size and number of required components. Their widespread application is however held back by the lack of a suitable metrology method. TNO, TU/e and NMi VSL have therefore developed the NANOMEFOS measurement machine [1], capable of universal non-contact and fast measurement of aspherical and freeform optics ranging from convex to concave and from flat to freeform, up to ⊘500 mm, with an uncertainty below 30 nm (2σ).
Freeform design and fabrication: Where the proof of the pudding is in verification
M. D. Nijkerk, O. E. Van der Togt-Marinescu, G. P.H. Gubbels
Proc. SPIE 10565, International Conference on Space Optics — ICSO 2010, 1056526 (5 January 2018); doi: 10.1117/12.2309177
A freeform optical surface is typically defined as any surface that does not have an axis of rotational symmetry. These surfaces provide additional degrees of freedom that can lead to improved performance compared to systems that make use solely of conventional optics.
Analysis of optical properties behaviour of CLEARCERAM, fused silica and CaF2 glasses exposed to simulated space conditions
M. Fernández-Rodríguez, C. G. Alvarado, A. Núñez, A. Álvarez-Herrero
Optical instrumentation on-board satellites suffer degradation due to the hostile conditions of space environment. Space conditions produce instrumentation performances changes causing a decrease or a cancellation of their features. Particularly, space environment conditions have a significant influence on the optical properties of glasses which are part of space optical systems.
Space environment characteristics which effects on the optical system have to be taken into account are: outgassing, volatile components, gas or water vapor which form part of the spacecraft materials, vacuum, microgravity, micrometeorites, space debris, thermal, mechanical and radiation environment and effects of the high atmosphere [1].
This work is focused on analyzing temperature variations and ultraviolet (UV) and gamma radiation effects on the optical properties of several glasses used on space applications.
Thermal environment is composed of radiation from the Sun, the albedo and the Earth radiation and the radiation from the spacecraft to deep space. Flux and influence of temperature on satellite materials depend on factors as the period of year or the position of them on the space system. Taking into account that the transfer mechanisms of heat are limited by the conduction and the radiation, high gradients of temperature are obtained in system elements which can cause changes of their optical properties, birefringence… Also, these thermal cycles can introduce mechanical loads into material structure due to the expansion and the contraction of the material leading to mechanical performances degradation [2].
However, it is the radiation environment the main cause of damage on optical properties of materials used on space instrumentation. This environment consists of a wide range of energetic particles between keV and MeV which are trapped by the geomagnetic field or are flux of particles that cross the Earth environment from the external of the Solar System [3].
The damage produced by the radiation environment on the optical materials can be classified in two types: ionizing or non-ionizing. This damage may produce continual or accumulative (dose) alterations on the optical material performances, or may produce alterations which not remain along the time (transitory effects). The effects of the radiation on optical materials can be summarized on changes of optical transmission and refractive index, variation of density and superficial degradation [4-6].
Two non-invasive and non-destructive techniques such as Optical Spectrum Analyzer and Spectroscopic Ellipsometry [7] have been used to characterize optically the three kinds of studied glasses, CaF2, Fused Silica and Clearceram.
The study of the temperature and radiation effects on the glasses optical properties showed that the gamma radiation is the principal responsible of glasses optical degradation. The optical properties of the Clearceram glass have been affected by the gamma irradiation due to the absorption bands induced by the radiation in the visible spectral range (color centers). Therefore, an analysis about the behavior of these color centers with the gamma radiation total dose and with the time after the irradiation has been carried out in the same way that it is performed in [8].
10565 Attitude Control Technologies
Pointing stability of Hinode and requirements for the next Solar mission Solar-C
Y. Katsukawa, Y. Masada, T. Shimizu, S. Sakai, K. Ichimoto
It is essential to achieve fine pointing stability in a space mission aiming for high resolutional observations. In a future Japanese solar mission SOLAR-C, which is a successor of the HINODE (SOLAR-B) mission, we set targets of angular resolution better than 0.1 arcsec in the visible light and better than 0.2 - 0.5 arcsec in EUV and X-rays. These resolutions are twice to five times better than those of corresponding instruments onboard HINODE. To identify critical items to achieve the requirements of the pointing stability in SOLAR-C, we assessed in-flight performance of the pointing stability of HINODE that achieved the highest pointing stability in Japanese space missions. We realized that one of the critical items that have to be improved in SOLAR-C is performance of the attitude stability near the upper limit of the frequency range of the attitude control system. The stability of 0.1 arcsec (3σ) is required in the EUV and X-ray telescopes of SOLAR-C while the HINODE performance is slightly worse than the requirement. The visible light telescope of HINODE is equipped with an image stabilization system inside the telescope, which achieved the stability of 0.03 arcsec (3σ) by suppressing the attitude jitter in the frequency range lower than 10 Hz. For further improvement, it is expected to suppress disturbances induced by resonance between the telescope structures and disturbances of momentum wheels and mechanical gyros in the frequency range higher than 100 Hz.
A new star (sensor) is born
Johan Leijtens, Willem Vliegenthart, Dimitris Lampridis, Giuseppe Vacanti, Bert Monna, Elbert Bechthum, Koen Hagenaars, Erik van der Heide, Michiel Kruijff,et. al.
In the frame of the Dutch Prequalification for ESA Programs(PEP), as part of the efforts to design an integrated optical attitude control subsytem (IOPACS), a consortium of TNO and several SME's in the Netherlands have been working on a novel type of startracker called MABS (Multiple Aperture Baffled Startracker). The system comprises a single cast metal housing with four reflective optical telescopes which use only structural internal baffling. Inherent to the design are a very high stability and excellent co-alignment between the apertures, a significant decrease in system size and low recurring production cost. The concept is a radical change from more common multiple startracker setups. The presentation will concentrate on the validity of the concept, the predicted performance and benefits for space applications, the produced breadboard and measured performances as well as the costing aspects.
Now is the time for the sunsensor of the future
Johan Leijtens, K. de Boom, M. Durkut, H. Hakkesteegt, A. Theuwissen, N. Xie
What started as an academic development in frame of the Dutch MicroNed program five years ago should culminate in the introduction of the smallest digital sunsensor available in (and probably outside) of Europe at the ICSO. At the ICSO, TNO plans to show for the first time a working mini-DSS, based on the APS+ chip. The sunsensor has been optimized for low power, low recurring costs and high repeatability in production. In order to achieve this, several innovations have been included and verified in a diverse range of supporting programs. During the presentation, trades performed that lead to the current setup, as well as the properties of the sensor system and interfaces will be discussed.
Compact autonomous navigation system (CANS)
Y. C. Hao, L. Ying, K. Xiong, H. Y. Cheng, G. D. Qiao
Autonomous navigation of Satellite and constellation has series of benefits, such as to reduce operation cost and ground station workload, to avoid the event of crises of war and natural disaster, to increase spacecraft autonomy, and so on. Autonomous navigation satellite is independent of ground station support. Many systems are developed for autonomous navigation of satellite in the past 20 years. Along them American MANS (Microcosm Autonomous Navigation System) [1] of Microcosm Inc. and ERADS [2]，[3] (Earth Reference Attitude Determination System) of Honeywell Inc. are well known. The systems anticipate a series of good features of autonomous navigation and aim low cost, integrated structure, low power consumption and compact layout. The ERADS is an integrated small 3-axis attitude sensor system with low cost and small volume. It has the Earth center measurement accuracy higher than the common IR sensor because the detected ultraviolet radiation zone of the atmosphere has a brightness gradient larger than that of the IR zone. But the ERADS is still a complex system because it has to eliminate many problems such as making of the sapphire sphere lens, birefringence effect of sapphire, high precision image transfer optical fiber flattener, ultraviolet intensifier noise, and so on. The marginal sphere FOV of the sphere lens of the ERADS is used to star imaging that may be bring some disadvantages., i.e. , the image energy and attitude measurements accuracy may be reduced due to the tilt image acceptance end of the fiber flattener in the FOV. Besides Japan, Germany and Russia developed visible earth sensor for GEO [4]、[5]. Do we have a way to develop a cheaper/easier and more accurate autonomous navigation system that can be used to all LEO spacecraft, especially, to LEO small and micro satellites? To return this problem we provide a new type of the system—CANS (Compact Autonomous Navigation System) [6].
10565 Ceramic Technologies in Optical Instruments
SiC challenging parts for GAIA
M. Bougoin
GAIA is one of the cornerstone ESA missions which aims at compiling a catalogue of about one billion stars of our galaxy. Reaching the highly demanding scientific requirements lead ASTRIUM engineers to design a mechanically and thermally ultra-stable instrument. This is the reason why, thanks to its physical properties, the SiC turned out to be indispensable.
The GAIA payload includes the following hardware which is mainly made of SiC i) the 3 meters quasi octagonal torus structure, ii) two identical 1.5 meters TMA type telescopes, iii) the central sub-assembly which holds several folding mirrors and the “Radial Velocity Spectrometer”, iv) the focal plane and v) the “Basic Angle Monitoring”.
Due to the required large size (1 - 3 meters class), accuracy and shape complexity, developing and manufacturing these SiC parts was a real challenge for BOOSTEC. It is reviewed in this paper.
NIRSpec optics development: final report
R. Geyl, E. Ruch, H. Vayssade, H. Leplan, J. Rodolfo
As shown and discussed on a Sagem poster presented at the ICSO 2010 conference [1], scientific or commercial earth observation space instruments are more and more taking advantage of the remarkable properties of Silicon Carbide in term of hardness, stiffness and thermal stability combined with a reasonable density which are indeed of primary importance for all space applications.
Sagem-REOSC High Performance Optics Unit works on the polishing, coating and integration technologies of SiC mirrors since more than ten year through various successful space programs for various customers: INSAT 3D scan mirror, ROCSAT II and SPIRALE main telescopes, GAIA large primary mirrors and Auto-collimation flats, …).
This paper aims to provide to the international space community an exhaustive vision of the work performed by Sagem-REOSC on the polishing, coating and integration of the three Three Mirror Anastigmats of the NIRSpec spectrographic instrument which is the main ESA contribution to the JWST.
Optical testing of lightweight large all-C/SiC optics
M. Suganuma, T. Imai, H. Katayama, M. Naitoh, Y. Tange, Y. Y. Yui, K. Maruyama, H. Kaneda, T. Nakagawa,et. al.
We carried out various tests of 800-mm-diameter aperture, lightweight optics that consisted wholly of carbon fiber-reinforced SiC composite, called HB-Cesic. A cryogenic optical test was performed on the primary mirror to examine any CTE irregularity as a surface change, and only small deformations were observed. The primary mirror was assembled with a convex secondary mirror into an optical system and tested under vacuum at the 6-m-diameter radiometer space chamber at Tsukuba Space Center of JAXA, where we have prepared interferometric metrological facilities to establish techniques to test large optical systems in a horizontal light-axis configuration. The wavefront difference between under vacuum and under atmosphere was confirmed to be less than 0.1 λ at λ=633 nm, if we realigned the optical axis of the interferometer and flat mirror under vacuum. We also demonstrated a stitching interferometry using the Φ800-mm optics by rotating a mask wheel of subapertures in front of the optical reference flat. The wavefront stitched from eight individual measurements of Φ275-mm subapertures differs from the full-aperture measurement without the mask by about 0.1 λ nm RMS, which showed the technique could able to be applied to test large telescopes especially for infrared wavelength region.
Super-light-weighted HB-Cesic® mirror cryogenic test
Christophe Devilliers, Matthias R. Krödel, Zoran Sodnik, Patrick Robert
Future scientific space missions require ever more demanding large optics that work at cryogenic temperatures. In the frame of a Darwin assessment study conducted under ESA contract by TAS, the need of future very lightweight cryogenic mirrors with superior optical quality has been identified. Such mirrors need to be of size up to 3.5 m in diameter, with a mass of less than 250 kg (i.e. 25 kg/m2) and possess excellent optical quality at cryogenic temperature down to 40 K.
Using CeSiC for UV spectrographs for the WSO/UV
A. Reutlinger, C. Gál, C. Brandt, P. Haberler, K.-H. Zuknik, T. Sedlmaier, B. Shustov, M. Sachkov, A. Moisheev,et. al.
The World Space Observatory Ultraviolet (WSO/UV) is a multi-national project lead by the Russian Federal Space Agency (Roscosmos) with the objective of high performance observations in the ultraviolet range. The 1.7 m WSO/UV telescope feeds UV spectrometers and UV imagers. The UV spectrometers comprise two high resolution Echelle spectrographs for the 100 − 170 nm and 170 − 300 nm wavelength range and a long slit spectrograph for the 100 − 300 nm band. All three spectrometers represent individual instruments that are assembled and aligned separately. In order to save mass while maintaining high stiffness, the instruments are combined to a monoblock. Cesic has been selected to reduce CTE related distortions of the instruments.
In contrast to aluminium, the stable structure of Cesic is significantly less sensitive to thermal gradients. No further mechanism for focus correction with high functional, technical and operational complexity and dedicated System costs are necessary. Using Cesic also relaxes the thermal control requirements of ±5°C, which represents a considerable cost driver for the S/C design.
The WUVS instrument is currently studied in the context of a phase B2 study by Kayser-Threde GmbH including a Structural Thermal Model (STM) for verification of thermal and mechanical loads, stability due to thermal distortions and Cesic manufacturing feasibility.
10565 Optical Devices
How nonlinear optics can merge interferometry for high resolution imaging
D. Ceus, F. Reynaud, A. Tonello, L. Delage, L. Grossard
High resolution stellar interferometers are very powerful efficient instruments to get a better knowledge of our Universe through the spatial coherence analysis of the light. For this purpose, the optical fields collected by each telescope Ti are mixed together. From the interferometric pattern, two expected information called the contrast Cij and the phase information φij are extracted. These information lead to the Vij, called the complex visibility, with Vij=Cijexp(jφij). For each telescope doublet TiTj, it is possible to get a complex visibility Vij. The Zernike Van Cittert theorem gives a relationship between the intensity distribution of the object observed and the complex visibility. The combination of the acquired complex visibilities and a reconstruction algorithm allows imaging reconstruction.
To avoid lots of technical difficulties related to infrared optics (components transmission, thermal noises, thermal cooling…), our team proposes to explore the possibility of using nonlinear optical techniques. This is a promising alternative detection technique for detecting infrared optical signals. This way, we experimentally demonstrate that frequency conversion does not result in additional bias on the interferometric data supplied by a stellar interferometer.
In this presentation, we report on wavelength conversion of the light collected by each telescope from the infrared domain to the visible. The interferometric pattern is observed in the visible domain with our, so called, upconversion interferometer. Thereby, one can benefit from mature optical components mainly used in optical telecommunications (waveguide, coupler, multiplexer…) and efficient low-noise detection schemes up to the single-photon counting level.
Space evaluation of optical modulators for microwave photonic on-board applications
A. Le Kernec, M. Sotom, B. Bénazet, J. Barbero, L. Peñate, M. Maignan, I. Esquivias, F. Lopez, N. Karafolas
Since several years, perspectives and assets offered by photonic technologies compared with their traditional RF counterparts (mass and volume reduction, transparency to RF frequency, RF isolation), make them particularly attractive for space applications [1] and, in particular, telecommunication satellites [2]. However, the development of photonic payload concepts have concurrently risen and made the problem of the ability of optoelectronic components to withstand space environment more and more pressing. Indeed, photonic components used in such photonic payloads architectures come from terrestrial networks applications in order to benefit from research and development in this field.
This paper presents some results obtained in the frame of an ESA-funded project, carried out by Thales Alenia Space France, as prime contractor, and Alter Technology Group Spain (ATG) and Universidad Politecnica de Madrid (UPM), as subcontractors, one objective of which was to assess commercial high frequency optical intensity modulators for space use through a functional and environmental test campaign. Their potential applications in microwave photonic sub-systems of telecom satellite payloads are identified and related requirements are presented. Optical modulator technologies are reviewed and compared through, but not limited to, a specific figure of merit, taking into account two key features of these components : optical insertion loss and RF half-wave voltage. Some conclusions on these different technologies are given, on the basis of the test results, and their suitability for the targeted applications and environment is highlighted.
Development of liquid crystal based adaptive optical elements for space applications
M. A. Geday, X. Quintana, E. Otón, B. Cerrolaza, D. Lopez, F. Garcia de Quiro, I. Manolis, A. Short
In this paper we present the results obtained within the context of the ESA-funded project Programmable Optoelectronic Adaptive Element (AO/1-5476/07/NL/EM). The objective of this project is the development of adaptive (reconfigurable) optical elements for use in space applications and the execution of preliminary qualification tests in the relevant environment.
The different designs and materials that have been considered and manufactured for a 2D beam steerer based on passive matrix liquid crystal programmable blaze grating will described and discussed.
Development of the Laser Retroreflector Array (LRA) for SARAL
Vincent Costes, Karine Gasc, Pierre Sengenes, Corinne Salcedo, Stéphan Imperiali, Christian du Jeu
CNES (French spatial agency) will provide the AltiKa high resolution altimeter, Doris instrument and the LRA (Laser Retroreflector Array) for SARAL (Satellite with Argos and AltiKa) in cooperation with ISRO (Indian space agency).
The LRA is a passive equipment reflecting the laser beams coming from the Earth ground stations. Computing the send-return time travel of the laser beams allows the determination of the satellite altitude within an accuracy of a few millimeters. The reflective function is done by a set of 9 corner cube reflectors, with a conical arrangement providing a 150 degrees wide field of view over the full 360 degrees azimuth angle.
According to CNES optomechanical specifications, the LRA has been developed by SESO (French optical firm). SESO has succeeded in providing the corner cube reflectors with a very stringent dihedral angle error of 1.6 arcsec and an accuracy within ±0.5 arcsec. During this development, SESO has performed mechanical, thermal and thermo-optical analyses. The optical gradient of each corner cube, as well as angular deviations and PSF (Point Spread Function) in each laser range finding direction, have been computed. Mechanical and thermal tests have been successfully performed. A thermo-optical test has successfully confirmed the optical effect of the predicted in-flight thermal gradients.
Each reflector is characterized in order to find its best location in the LRA housing and give the maximum optimization to the space telemetering mission.
10565 X‐Ray Technologies
Silicon pore optics for the international x-ray observatory
E. Wille, K. Wallace, M. Bavdaz, M. J. Collon, R. Günther, M. Ackermann, M. W. Beijersbergen, M. O. Riekerink, M. Blom,et. al.
Lightweight X-ray Wolter optics with a high angular resolution will enable the next generation of X-ray telescopes in space. The International X-ray Observatory (IXO) requires a mirror assembly of 3 m2 effective area (at 1.5 keV) and an angular resolution of 5 arcsec. These specifications can only be achieved with a novel technology like Silicon Pore Optics, which is developed by ESA together with a consortium of European industry.
Silicon Pore Optics are made of commercial Si wafers using process technology adapted from the semiconductor industry. We present the manufacturing process ranging from single mirror plates towards complete focusing mirror modules mounted in flight configuration. The performance of the mirror modules is tested using X-ray pencil beams or full X-ray illumination. In 2009, an angular resolution of 9 arcsec was achieved, demonstrating the improvement of the technology compared to 17 arcsec in 2007. Further development activities of Silicon Pore Optics concentrate on ruggedizing the mounting system and performing environmental tests, integrating baffles into the mirror modules and assessing the mass production.
The eROSITA X-ray mirrors: technology and qualification aspects of the production of mandrels, shells and mirror modules
L. Arcangeli, G. Borghi, H. Bräuninger, O. Citterio, I. Ferrario, P. Friedrich, G. Grisoni, F. Marioni, P. Predehl,et. al.
The name “eROSITA” stands for extended Roentgen Survey with an Imaging Telescope Array. The general design of the eROSITA X-ray telescope is derived from that of ABRIXAS. A bundle of 7 mirror modules with short focal lengths make up a compact telescope which is ideal for survey observations. Similar designs had been proposed for the missions DUO and ROSITA but were not realized due to programmatic shortfall. Compared to those, however, the effective area in the soft X-ray band has now much increased by adding 27 additional outer mirror shells to the original 27 ones of each mirror module. The requirement on the on-axis resolution has also been confined, namely to 15 arc seconds HEW. For these reasons the prefix “extended” was added to the original name “ROSITA”. The scientific motivation for this extension is founded in the ambitious goal to detect about 100,000 clusters of galaxies which trace the large scale structure of the Universe in space and time.
The X-ray telescope of eROSITA will consist of 7 identical and co-aligned mirror modules, each with 54 nested Wolter-1 mirror shells. The mirror shells are glued onto a spider wheel which is screwed to the mirror interface structure making a rigid mechanical unit. The assembly of 7 modules forms a compact hexagonal configuration with 1300 mm diameter (see Fig. 1) and will be attached to the telescope structure which connects to the 7 separate CCD cameras in the focal planes. The co-alignment of the mirror module enables eROSITA to perform also pointed observations.
The replication process described in chapter III allows the manufacturing in one single piece and at the same time of both the parabola and hyperbola parts of the Wolter 1 mirror.
Design and development by direct polishing of the WFXT thin polynomial mirror shells
L. Proserpio, S. Campana, O. Citterio, M. Civitani, H. Combrinck, P. Conconi, V. Cotroneo, R. Freeman, E. Mattini,et. al.
The Wide Field X-ray Telescope (WFXT) is a medium class mission proposed to address key questions about cosmic origins and physics of the cosmos through an unprecedented survey of the sky in the soft X-ray band (0.2-6 keV) [1], [2]. In order to get the desired angular resolution of 10 arcsec (5 arcsec goal) on the entire 1 degrees Field Of View (FOV), the design of the optical system is based on nested grazing-incidence polynomial profiles mirrors, and assumes a focal plane curvature and plate scale corrections among the shells. This design guarantees an increased angular resolution also at large off-axis positions with respect to the usually adopted Wolter I configuration. In order to meet the requirements in terms of mass and effective area (less than 1200 kg, 6000 cm2 @ 1 keV), the nested shells are thin and made of quartz glass. The telescope assembly is composed by three identical modules of 78 nested shells each, with diameter up to 1.1 m, length in the range of 200-440 mm and thickness of less than 2.2 mm. At this regard, a deterministic direct polishing method is under investigation to manufacture the WFXT thin grazing-incidence mirrors made of quartz. The direct polishing method has already been used for past missions (as Einstein, Rosat, Chandra) but based on much thicker shells (10 mm ore more). The technological challenge for WFXT is to apply the same approach but for 510 times thinner shells. The proposed approach is based on two main steps: first, quartz glass tubes available on the market are ground to conical profiles; second the pre-shaped shells are polished to the required polynomial profiles using a CNC polishing machine. In this paper, preliminary results on the direct grinding and polishing of prototypes shells made by quartz glass with low thickness, representative of the WFXT optical design, are presented.
Design and development of the multilayer optics for the new hard x-ray mission
G. Pareschi, S. Basso, O. Citterio, D. Spiga, G. Tagliaferri, M. Civitani, L. Raimondi, G. Sironi, V. Cotroneo,et. al.
The New Hard X-ray Mission (NHXM) project will be operated by 2017 and is currently undergoing a Phase B study, under the coordination of the Italian Space Agency (ASI). The project is being proposed by an international team in the context of the ESA Call CV M3 as a Small Mission program, with a large Italian participation. It is based on 4 hard X-ray optics modules, each formed by 60 evenly spaced multilayer coated Wolter I mirror shells. An extensible bench is used to reach the 10 m focal length. The Wolter I monolithic substrates with multilayer coating are produced in NiCo by electroforming replication. Three of the mirror modules will host in the focal plane a hybrid a detector system (a soft X-ray Si DEPFET array plus a high energy CdTe detector). The detector of the fourth telescope will be a photoelectric polarimeter with imaging capabilities, operating from 2 up to 35 keV. The total on axis effective area of the three telescopes at 1 keV and 30 kev is of 1500 cm2 and 350 cm2 respectively, with an angular resolution of 20 arcsec HEW at 30 keV. In this paper we report on the design and development of the multilayer coated X-ray mirrors based on NiCo shells.
10565 Metrology
A coherent free space optical link for long distance clock comparison, navigation, and communication: The Mini-Doll project
K. Djerroud, E. Samain, A. Clairon, O. Acef, N. Man, P. Lemonde, P. Wolf
We describe the realization of a 5 km free space coherent optical link through the turbulent atmosphere between a telescope and a ground target. We present the phase noise of the link, limited mainly by atmospheric turbulence and mechanical vibrations of the telescope and the target. We discuss the implications of our results for applications, with particular emphasis on optical Doppler ranging to satellites and long distance frequency transfer.
Implementation of two telemeter designs for high accuracy laser ranging of kilometer scale distances in space
C. Courde, D. H. Phung, A. Brillet, M. Lintz
We present two different laser ranging systems under development, both based on the use of a high frequency modulated beam. The first range meter makes no use of interferometry: only the phase of the return beam is detected, in a way that rejects cyclic errors due to optical and electronic crosstalk. An Allan deviation slightly better than 10nm has been obtained with this simple system. The other range meter should provide better resolution, at the expense of a somewhat more sophisticated procedure, as it involves both time-of-flight and interferometry measurements.
Dual absolute and relative high precision laser metrology
Klaus Ergenzinger, Thilo Schuldt, Philippe Berlioz, Claus Braxmaier, Ulrich Johann
Design, integration, test setup, test results, and lessons-learnt of a high precision laser metrology demonstrator for dual absolute and relative laser distance metrology are presented. The different working principles are described and their main subsystems and performance drivers are presented. All subsystems have strong commonalities with flight models as of LTP on LISA Pathfinder and laser communication missions, and different pathways to flight models for varying applications and missions are presented. The setup has initially been realized within the ESA project "High Precision Optical Metrology (HPOM)", originally initiated for DARWIN formation flying optical metrology, though now serves as demonstrator for a variety of future applications. These are sketched and brought into context (PROBA-3, IXO onboard metrology, laser gravimetry earth observation missions, fundamental science missions like LISA and Pioneer anomaly).
Mathematical modelling of the complete metrology of the PROBA-3/ASPIICS formation flying solar coronagraph
F. Stathopoulos, S. Vives, L. Damé, K. Tsinganos
Formation flying, with ESA’s mission PROBA-3, is providing the chance of creating a giant solar coronagraph in Space. The scientific payload, the solar coronagraph ASPIICS, has been selected in January 2009 [1]. The advantages of formation flying are: 1) larger dimensions for the coronagraph, which leads to better spatial resolution and lower straylight level and 2) possibility of continuous observations of the inner corona. The PROBA-3/ASPIICS mission is composed of two spacecrafts (S/Cs) at 150 meters distance, the Occulter-S/C (O-S/C) which holds the external occulter, and the Coronagraph-S/C (C-S/C) which holds the main instrument, i.e. the telescope. In addition of the scientific capabilities of the instrument, it will continuously monitor the exact position and pointing of both S/Cs in 3D space, via two additional metrology units: the Shadow Position Sensor (SPS) and the Occulter Position Sensor (OPS). In this paper we are presenting the metrology of this formation flying mission combining the outputs of the above mentioned sensors, SPS and OPS. This study has been conducted in the framework of an ESA “STARTIGER” initiative, a novel approach aimed at demonstrating the feasibility of a new and promising technology concept (in our case formation flying applied to solar coronagraphy, cf. [2, 3]) on a short time scale (six months study).
Researches on hazard avoidance cameras calibration of Lunar Rover
Chunyan Li, Li Wang, Xin Lu, Jihua Chen, Shenghong Fan
Lunar Lander and Rover of China will be launched in 2013. It will finish the mission targets of lunar soft landing and patrol exploration. Lunar Rover has forward facing stereo camera pair (Hazcams) for hazard avoidance. Hazcams calibration is essential for stereo vision. The Hazcam optics are f-theta fish-eye lenses with a 120°×120° horizontal/vertical field of view (FOV) and a 170° diagonal FOV. They introduce significant distortion in images and the acquired images are quite warped, which makes conventional camera calibration algorithms no longer work well.
A photogrammetric calibration method of geometric model for the type of optical fish-eye constructions is investigated in this paper. In the method, Hazcams model is represented by collinearity equations with interior orientation and exterior orientation parameters [1] [2]. For high-precision applications, the accurate calibration model is formulated with the radial symmetric distortion and the decentering distortion as well as parameters to model affinity and shear based on the fisheye deformation model [3] [4]. The proposed method has been applied to the stereo camera calibration system for Lunar Rover.
10565 X‐Rays and SAR
New trends in space x-ray optics
R. Hudec, V. Maršíková , L. Pína, A. Inneman, M. Skulinová
The X-ray optics is a key element of various X-ray telescopes, X-ray microscopes, as well as other X-ray imaging instruments. The grazing incidence X-ray lenses represent the important class of X-ray optics. Most of grazing incidence (reflective) X-ray imaging systems used in astronomy but also in other (laboratory) applications are based on the Wolter 1 (or modified) arrangement. But there are also other designs and configurations proposed, used and considered for future applications both in space and in laboratory. The Kirkpatrick-Baez (K-B) lenses as well as various types of Lobster-Eye optics and MCP/Micropore optics serve as an example. Analogously to Wolter lenses, the X-rays are mostly reflected twice in these systems to create focal images. Various future projects in X-ray astronomy and astrophysics will require large segments with multiple thin shells or foils. The large Kirkpatrick-Baez modules, as well as the large Lobster-Eye X-ray telescope modules in Schmidt arrangement may serve as examples. All these space projects will require high quality and light segmented shells (bent or flat foils) with high X-ray reflectivity and excellent mechanical stability. The Multi Foil Optics (MFO) approach represent a promising alternative for both LE and K-B X-ray optical modules. Several types of reflecting substrates may be considered for these applications, with emphasis on thin float glass sheets and, more recently, high quality silicon wafers. This confirms the importance of non- Wolter X-ray optics designs for the future.
Future large space X-ray telescopes (such as IXO) require precise and light-weight X-ray optics based on numerous thin reflecting shells. Novel approaches and advanced technologies are to be exploited and developed. In this contribution, we refer on results of tested X-ray mirror shells produced by glass thermal forming (GTF) and by shaping Si wafers. Both glass foils and Si wafers are commercially available, have excellent surface microroughness of a few 0.1 nm, and low weight (the volume density is 2.5 g cm-3 for glass and 2.3 g cm-3 for Si). Technologies are needed to be exploited; how to shape these substrates to achieve the required precise Xray optics geometries without degradations of the fine surface microroughness. Although glass and recently silicon wafers are considered to represent most promising materials for future advanced large aperture space Xray telescopes, there also exist other alternative materials worth further study such as amorphous metals and glassy carbon [1]. In order to achieve sub-arsec angular resolutions, principles of active optics have to be adopted.
Active x-ray optics for high resolution space telescopes
Peter Doel, Carolyn Atkins, D. Brooks, Charlotte Feldman, Richard Willingale, Tim Button, Daniel Rodriguez Sanmartin, Carl Meggs, Ady James,et. al.
The Smart X-ray Optics (SXO) Basic Technology project started in April 2006 and will end in October 2010. The aim is to develop new technologies in the field of X-ray focusing, in particular the application of active and adaptive optics. While very major advances have been made in active/adaptive astronomical optics for visible light, little was previously achieved for X-ray optics where the technological challenges differ because of the much shorter wavelengths involved.
The field of X-ray astronomy has been characterized by the development and launch of ever larger observatories with the culmination in the European Space Agency’s XMM-Newton and NASA's Chandra missions which are currently operational. XMM-Newton uses a multi-nested structure to provide modest angular resolution (∼10 arcsec) but large effective area, while Chandra sacrifices effective area to achieve the optical stability necessary to provide sub-arc second resolution. Currently the European Space Agency (ESA) is engaged in studies of the next generation of X-ray space observatories, with the aim of producing telescopes with increased sensitivity and resolution. To achieve these aims several telescopes have been proposed, for example ESA and NASA’s combined International X-ray Observatory (IXO), aimed at spectroscopy, and NASA’s Generation-X. In the field of X-ray astronomy sub 0.2 arcsecond resolution with high efficiency would be very exciting. Such resolution is unlikely to be achieved by anything other than an active system. The benefits of a such a high resolution would be important for a range of astrophysics subjects, for example the potential angular resolution offered by active X-ray optics could provide unprecedented structural imaging detail of the Solar Wind bowshock interaction of comets, planets and similar objects and auroral phenomena throughout the Solar system using an observing platform in low Earth orbit.
A major aim of the SXO project was to investigate the production of thin actively controlled grazing incident optics for the next generation of X-ray space telescopes. Currently telescope systems are limited in the resolution and sensitivity by the optical quality of the thin shell optics used. As part of its research programme an actively controlled prototype X-ray thin shell telescope optic of dimensions 30x10cm has been developed to bench test the technology. The design is based on thin nickel shells bonded to shaped piezo-electric unimorph actuators made from lead zirconate titanate (PZT).
Satellite on-board real-time SAR processor prototype
Alain Bergeron, Michel Doucet, Bernd Harnisch, Martin Suess, Linda Marchese, Pascal Bourqui, Nicholas Desnoyers, Mathieu Legros, Ludovic Guillot,et. al.
A Compact Real-Time Optronic SAR Processor has been successfully developed and tested up to a Technology Readiness Level of 4 (TRL4), the breadboard validation in a laboratory environment. SAR, or Synthetic Aperture Radar, is an active system allowing day and night imaging independent of the cloud coverage of the planet. The SAR raw data is a set of complex data for range and azimuth, which cannot be compressed. Specifically, for planetary missions and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) systems with limited communication data rates this is a clear disadvantage.
SAR images are typically processed electronically applying dedicated Fourier transformations. This, however, can also be performed optically in real-time. Originally the first SAR images were optically processed. The optical Fourier processor architecture provides inherent parallel computing capabilities allowing real-time SAR data processing and thus the ability for compression and strongly reduced communication bandwidth requirements for the satellite.
SAR signal return data are in general complex data. Both amplitude and phase must be combined optically in the SAR processor for each range and azimuth pixel. Amplitude and phase are generated by dedicated spatial light modulators and superimposed by an optical relay set-up. The spatial light modulators display the full complex raw data information over a two-dimensional format, one for the azimuth and one for the range. Since the entire signal history is displayed at once, the processor operates in parallel yielding real-time performances, i.e. without resulting bottleneck. Processing of both azimuth and range information is performed in a single pass.
This paper focuses on the onboard capabilities of the compact optical SAR processor prototype that allows in-orbit processing of SAR images. Examples of processed ENVISAT ASAR images are presented. Various SAR processor parameters such as processing capabilities, image quality (point target analysis), weight and size are reviewed.
10565 Technologies for Fundamental Physics
Optical bench development for LISA
L. d'Arcio, J. Bogenstahl, M. Dehne, C. Diekmann, E. D. Fitzsimons, R. Fleddermann, E. Granova, G. Heinzel, H. Hogenhuis,et. al.
For observation of gravitational waves at frequencies between 30 μHz and 1 Hz, the LISA mission will be implemented in a triangular constellation of three identical spacecraft, which are mutually linked by laser interferometry in an active transponder scheme over a 5 million kilometer arm length. On the end point of each laser link, remote and local beam metrology with respect to inertial proof masses inside the spacecraft is realized by the LISA Optical Bench. It implements further- more various ancillary functions such as point-ahead correction, acquisition sensing, transmit beam conditioning, and laser redundancy switching.
A comprehensive design of the Optical Bench has been developed, which includes all of the above mentioned functions and at the same time ensures manufacturability on the basis of hydroxide catalysis bonding, an ultrastable integration technology already perfected in the context of LISA's technology demonstrator mission LISA Pathfinder. Essential elements of this design have been validated by dedicated pre-investigations. These include the demonstration of polarizing heterodyne interferometry at the required Picometer and Nanoradian performance levels, the investigation of potential non-reciprocal noise sources in the so-called backlink fiber, as well as the development of a laser redundancy switch breadboard.
LISA on Table: an optical simulator for LISA
H. Halloin, O. Jeannin, B. Argence, V. Bourrier, E. de Vismes, P. Prat
LISA, the first space project for detecting gravitational waves, relies on two main technical challenges: the free falling masses and an outstanding precision on phase shift measurements (a few pm on 5 Mkm in the LISA band). The technology of the free falling masses, i.e. their isolation to forces other than gravity and the capability for the spacecraft to precisely follow the test masses, will soon be tested with the technological LISA Pathfinder mission. The performance of the phase measurement will be achieved by at least two stabilization stages: a pre-stabilisation of the laser frequency at a level of 10-13 (relative frequency stability) will be further improved by using numerical algorithms, such as Time Delay Interferometry, which have been theoretically and numerically demonstrated to reach the required performance level (10-21).
Nevertheless, these algorithms, though already tested with numerical model of LISA, require experimental validation, including ‘realistic’ hardware elements. Such an experiment would allow to evaluate the expected noise level and the possible interactions between subsystems. To this end, the APC is currently developing an optical benchtop experiment, called LISA On Table (LOT), which is representative of the three LISA spacecraft.
A first module of the LOT experiment has been mounted and is being characterized. After completion this facility may be used by the LISA community to test hardware (photodiodes, phasemeters) or software (reconstruction algorithms) components.
Picometer stable scan mechanism for gravitational wave detection in space: LISA PAAM
J. A. C. M. Pijnenburg, N. Rijnveld
Detection and observation of gravitational waves requires extreme stability in the frequency range 0.03 mHz to 1 Hz. The Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA) mission will attain this by creating a giant interferometer in space, based on free floating proof masses in three spacecrafts. Due to orbit evolution and time delay in the interferometer arms, the direction of transmitted light changes. To solve this problem, a picometer stable Point-Ahead Angle Mechanism (PAAM) was designed, realized and successfully tested. The PAAM concept is based on a rotatable mirror. The critical requirements are the contribution to the optical path length (less than 1.4 pm / rt Hz) and the angular jitter (less than 8 nrad / rt Hz). Extreme dimensional stability is achieved by manufacturing a monolithical Haberland hinge mechanism out of Ti6Al4V, through high precision wire erosion. Extreme thermal stability is realized by placing the thermal center on the surface of the mirror. Because of piezo actuator noise and leakage, the PAAM has to be controlled in closed-loop. To meet the requirements in the low frequencies, an active target capacitance-to-digital converter is used. Interferometric measurements with a triangular resonant cavity in vacuum proved that the PAAM meets the requirements.
A transportable cold atom inertial sensor for space applications
V. Ménoret, R. Geiger, G. Stern, P. Cheinet, B. Battelier, N. Zahzam, F. Pereira Dos Santos, A. Bresson, A. Landragin,et. al.
Atom interferometry has hugely benefitted from advances made in cold atom physics over the past twenty years, and ultra-precise quantum sensors are now available for a wide range of applications [1]. In particular, cold atom interferometers have shown excellent performances in the field of acceleration and rotation measurements [2,3], and are foreseen as promising candidates for navigation, geophysics, geo-prospecting and tests of fundamental physics such as the Universality of Free Fall (UFF). In order to carry out a test of the UFF with atoms as test masses, one needs to compare precisely the accelerations of two atoms with different masses as they fall in the Earth’s gravitational field. The sensitivity of atom interferometers scales like the square of the time during which the atoms are in free fall, and on ground this interrogation time is limited by the size of the experimental setup to a fraction of a second. Sending an atom interferometer in space would allow for several seconds of excellent free-fall conditions, and tests of the UFF could be carried out with precisions as low as 10-15 [4].
However, cold atoms experiments rely on complex laser systems, which are needed to cool down and manipulate the atoms, and these systems are usually very sensitive to temperature fluctuations and vibrations. In addition, when operating an inertial sensor, vibrations are a major issue, as they deteriorate the performances of the instrument. This is why cold atom interferometers are usually used in ground based facilities, which provide stable enough environments. In order to carry out airborne or space-borne measurements, one has to design an instrument which is both compact and stable, and such that vibrations induced by the platform will not deteriorate the sensitivity of the sensor.
We report on the operation of an atom interferometer on board a plane carrying out parabolic flights (Airbus A300 Zero-G, operated by Novespace). We have constructed a compact and stable laser setup, which is well suited for onboard applications. Our goal is to implement a dual-species Rb-K atom interferometer in order to carry out a test of the UFF in the plane. In this perspective, we are designing a dual-wavelength laser source, which will enable us to cool down and coherently manipulate the quantum states of both atoms. We have successfully tested a preliminary version of the source and obtained a double species magneto-optical trap (MOT).
The space optical clocks project
S. Schiller, G. M. Tino, P. Lemonde, U. Sterr, Ch. Lisdat, A. Görlitz, N. Poli, A. Nevsky, C. Salomon
The Space Optical Clocks project aims at operating lattice clocks on the ISS for tests of fundamental physics and for providing high-accuracy comparisons of future terrestrial optical clocks. A pre-phase-A study (2007- 10), funded partially by ESA and DLR, included the implementation of several optical lattice clock systems using Strontium and Ytterbium as atomic species and their characterization. Subcomponents of clock demonstrators with the added specification of transportability and using techniques suitable for later space use, such as all-solid-state lasers, low power consumption, and compact dimensions, have been developed and have been validated. This included demonstration of laser-cooling and magneto-optical trapping of Sr atoms in a compact breadboard apparatus and demonstration of a transportable clock laser with 1 Hz linewidth. With two laboratory Sr lattice clock systems a number of fundamental results were obtained, such as observing atomic resonances with linewidths as low as 3 Hz, non-destructive detection of atom excitation, determination of decoherence effects and reaching a frequency instability of 1×10-16.
10565 Additional Papers
Active optics: off axis aspherics generation for high contrast imaging
E. Hugot, M. Laslandes, M. Ferrari, S. Vives, S. Moindrot, K. El Hadi, K. Dohlen
Proc. SPIE 10565, International Conference on Space Optics — ICSO 2010, 1056553 (11 January 2018); doi: 10.1117/12.2309119
Active Optics methods, based on elasticity theory, allow the aspherisation of optical surfaces by stress polishing but also active aspherisation in situ. Researches in this field will impact the final performance and the final cost of any telescope or instrument. The stress polishing method is well suited for the superpolishing of aspheric components for astronomy. Its principle relies on spherical polishing with a full-sized tool of a warped substrate, which becomes aspherical once unwarped. The main advantage of this technique is the very high optical quality obtained either on form or on high spatial frequency errors. Furthermore, the roughness can be decreased down to a few angstroms, thanks the classical polishing with a large pitch tool, providing a substantial gain on the final scientific performance, for instance on the contrast on coronagraphic images, but also on the polishing time and cost. Stress polishing is based on elasticity theory, and requires an optimised deformation system able to provide the right aspherical form on the optical surface during polishing. The optical quality of the deformation is validated using extensive Finite Element Analysis, allowing an estimation of residuals and an optimisation of the warping harness. We describe here the work realised on stress polishing of toric mirrors for VLT-SPHERE and then our actual work on off axis aspherics (OAA) for the ASPIICS-Proba3 mission for solar coronagraphy. The ASPIICS optical design made by Vives et al is a three mirrors anastigmat including a concave off axis hyperboloid and a convex off axis parabola (OAP). We are developing a prototype in order to demonstrate the feasibility of this type of surface, using a multi-mode warping harness (Lemaitre et al). Furthermore, we present our work on variable OAP, meaning the possibility to adjust the shape of a simple OAP in situ with a minimal number of actuators, typically one actuator per optical mode (Focus, Coma and Astigmatism). Applications for future space telescopes and instrumentation are discussed.
The SPICA Telescope: design evolution and expected performance
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film, film reviews, movie, movie reviews, reviews
July 21, 2017 October 6, 2017 by CJ
Back in April, Their Finest depicted the British Ministry of Information backing a feature film about the civilian nautical craft evacuation of Dunkirk during World War Two. Now, Warner Brothers has spent a hundred and fifty million bucks on the same subject, and Britain gets a very expensive bonus slice of inspirational propaganda. Reserved, dignified, proud and brave, Christopher Nolan’s Dunkirk is nothing if not very, very British.
I have to admit, I didn’t know about the civilian-aided evacuation effort, and the fact that it features in two prominent films this year might say something about our need for everyday heroes. It was an extraordinary event and it is given extraordinary technical respect here; this is a film where superlatives concerning the technique can’t help but get a bit heady. Utilising practical effects – real planes and boats from the era, including some boats that actually took part in the actual evacuation – Nolan has made a heartfelt connection with the past. It must have been something to launch those nearly hundred-year old vessels on a recreation of their proudest day. It must have given Nolan goosebumps…
…which is more than I can say Dunkirk did for me. I was blown away by its technical audacity, and I’m also in thrall to its intricate screenplay, which not only tells the film’s central story from three perspectives, in three different time-frames, but also allows for multiple interpretations of the same events, allowing for the subjectivity of memory. I learned a lot and was maybe a little inspired. But I cannot say I was moved. The human beings in the film function much as the boats and planes do; they are pieces to be shifted around on Nolan’s magnificent (IMAX!) canvas rather than memorable individuals. There are two exceptions: Mark Rylance’s stoic pleasure-boat captain makes a dignified impression, and Tom Hardy’s fighter pilot is fully realised, despite the actor’s face being covered in a massive pilot’s mask.
For the rest, though, the grunt soldiers who actually bear the story’s spine – I found them interchangeable to the point that I didn’t actually realise that there are three young leads. They’re all “fresh faces” – their names are Fionn Whitehead, Aneurin Barnard and Harry Styles (he of One Direction) – and they didn’t land an impression on me. For all I could really tell, what happened to each of them happened to a bunch of them – they were simply more and more of the 400,000 soldiers on the beach, rather than three we were meant to care about. Their anonymity gave them universality while undercutting their emotional weight.
The film is full peril, danger and death, but I can’t recall a single drop of blood. Unlike every big-budget war film since Saving Private Ryan, it doesn’t stylistically crib Saving Private Ryan. The carnage is portrayed less graphically and eschews the “bullet zip” and sped-up camera effect that made Ryan’s scenes so devastating. It’s a little more old-school, a little more… British.
I appreciated the supreme virtuosity of the film, but I wasn’t really needing it in my life (except as an incredibly staged history lesson). While bravery is always a noble theme, nothing about Dunkirk speaks to the here and now. It’s timeless, classical filmmaking on a massive, modern scale, and there’s nothing wrong with that. Or, daresay I, ‘tis nothing to be sneezed at.
A fun observation: Kenneth Branagh, as the highest-ranked officer on the beach, must have the tightest performance area of any actor in a big epic since the naval commanders on the bridge of Tora Tora Tora! Stationed at the end of the “mole”, Dunkirk’s long pier, Branagh occasionally takes a step over here, and, later… perhaps a step back. Cuppa tea, anyone?
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christopher nolan dunkirk harry styles mark rylance nolan dunkirk their finest tom hardy world war two
One thought on “DUNKIRK”
Frances Macaulay Forde says:
Ever since I heard Christopher Nolan was making this film, I’ve had my eye on it. Whether I’ll agree with you about the characters or not, remains to be seen but I have absolutely no doubt it will be a film worth seeing. And yes, I think at this point in time we are all desperate for real-life heroism and less ‘Fake News’.
MOVIELAND: The Godfather Coda With Shahir Daud #godfathercoda #TheGodfather @ShahirDaud #thegodfathercoda… twitter.com/i/web/status/1… 22 hours ago
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Exclusive: Elliott Management invests in small Guyana oil explorer – sources
Home Financial news Exclusive: Elliott Management invests in small Guyana oil explorer – sources
NEW YORK/LONDON (Reuters) – Activist hedge fund Elliott Management Corp has invested at least $30 million in Cataleya Energy, a small firm focused on oil exploration in Guyana, the world’s newest oil and gas hot spot, two people familiar with the matter said.
FILE PHOTO: Vessels carrying supplies for an offshore oil platform operated by Exxon Mobil are seen at the Guyana Shore Base Inc wharf on the Demerara River, south of Georgetown, Guyana January 23, 2020. REUTERS/Luc Cohen
The deal reflects rising interest in Guyana, a small South American country of 750,000 whose oil discoveries are set to transform an economy dependent on agriculture and mining.
Five years ago, a consortium led by Exxon Mobil Corp struck oil off the Guyanese coast in the 6.6 million-acre (26,800 square kilometer) Stabroek block that has been shown to hold more than 8 billion barrels of recoverable oil and gas.
Cataleya, founded by Canadian and Guyanese businessmen with backgrounds in gold mining, holds a 25% stake in the Kaieteur block, a 3.3 million-acre area adjacent to Stabroek. Exxon holds a 35% stake in Kaieteur, and is the block’s operator.
Elliott declined to comment.
Mike Cawood, chief executive and co-founder of Canada-registered Cataleya, declined to comment on the Elliott investment but said his shareholders come from Guyana, the Caribbean, the United States, Canada and Israel.
“We’ve got a large investor range,” he said.
The company will disclose details of its beneficial ownership later this year for Guyana’s next report to the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative, a multinational standard-setting body, he said.
Guyana’s government has not held licensing rounds for new acreage recently. Elliott’s deal shows how companies with ownership stakes in existing blocks can provide investors with a means to gain exposure to future developments.
READ ALSO Dating app Bumble reveals steady revenue growth, losses in IPO filing
The investment puts Elliott, run by billionaire Paul Singer, in a consortium with U.S. producer Hess Corp, which owns a 15% stake in Kaieteur. Elliott, a shareholder in Hess, pushed for changes at Hess in 2013 and remained critical here of the company’s management for years.
Elliott is well-known in Latin America for its use of litigation to enforce claims on defaulted Peruvian and Argentine bonds.
Elliott also has taken stakes in energy companies QEP Resources Inc, Marathon Petroleum Corp, and Noble Energy. Private equity also is among its investment strategies, the company said on its website.
Cataleya was advised on the deal by boutique investment bank Hannam & Partners, according to one of the people.
The investment faced a setback this month when Exxon disclosed its first exploration well in Kaieteur, known as Tanager-1, had struck less lucrative heavy oil, and that the well was not financially viable on its own.
Exxon said it was still “evaluating the exploration potential” in the block.
Reporting by Luc Cohen in New York, Ron Bousso in London and Jessica Resnick-Ault in New York; Editing by Matthew Lewis
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Dr Niket Patel
MBBS, BSC(1st Class Hons), MD(Res), FRCP
5 years as a specialist
The Wellington Hospital
Chiswick Medical Centre
Top feedback
“He was very good “
Subspecialty
New appointment: £250
Follow-up appointment: £180
St Johns Wood, London, United Kingdom, NW8 7JA
Bond House, 347-353 Chiswick High Road, London, United Kingdom, W4 4HS
Dr Niket Patel is a Cardiologist based in London, UK. He is known for his friendly approach, always putting the patient at the centre of his decision making. He is an expert at managing patients with cardiac conditions and sub specialises in all aspects of complex interventional cardiology such as angioplasty and stenting. Dr Patel enjoys working with his patients, finding solutions to their symptoms and considering all possible options.
Dr Patel studied medicine at St George's Hospital Medical School, completing his specialist training in cardiology and coronary intervention at Harefield Hospital and Oxford University Hospital. While completing his training, he produced his doctoral thesis in the physiology of coronary arteries in patients suffering from heart attacks.
Dr Patel is happy to see patients suffering from chest pain, breathlessness, palpitations, fainting or syncope, high blood pressure, patients concerned by their risk of heart disease (primary and secondary prevention), and heart valve disease or murmurs.
Non-invasive cardiac investigations including 24 hour monitoring
Cardiac MRI
Exercise testing
Angioplasty, coronary stent insertion
Complex percutaneous coronary intervention
Coronary Bypass Graft Assessment
Pressure Wire Assessment
Intravascular Imaging (OCT and IVUS)
Pacemaker insertion
Transaortic valve intervention (TAVI)
Dizziness, loss of consciousness (syncope)
Tachycardia and arrhythmia
Chest pain and treatment of ischaemic heart disease
Management of primary and secondary prevention
MBBS St George's Medical School, University of London
BSc(1st Class Hons) Imperial College, University of London
MD(Res) St George's Medical School, University of London
FRCP Royal College of Physicians
European Society of Cardiology
European Association of Cardiovascular Interventions
Royal College of Physicians, London
British Cardiovascular Society
British Cardiovascular Intervention Society
5 Overall Patient Trust rating
NewestOldestHighest ratingLowest rating
He was very good
We saw Dr Niket Patel in January 2018. I was very upset and shocked With my husband having a heart attack and needed a open heart surgery I cannot thank Dr N Patel enough not only he helped me emotionally get through this tough time but he also made sure my husband got the best care during the operation and after the op too. He made time to come and see us regularly and also made sure my husband was comfortable. I cannot thank Dr Patel enough for his help and care.
Excellent manner towards my condition and fully explained the medical issues he would treat and course if my treatment. Dr Patel put me at ease at each stages of my treatment and felt fully cared for throught out. I can highly recommend his expertise.
Dr Patel has been brilliant from our first consultation till after my surgery, making me feel at ease, explaining everything in a manner I could understand and helping me through the difficult period when I found out I required surgery. Can not thank him enough for the care and attention he has given me.
Having been unwell recently I was so fortunate to be treated under the expert skill and care by Dr Niket Patel. Without exaggerating Dr Patel literally saved my life after completely out of the blue I suffered a heart attack. As well as having the wonderful ability to perform the required procedures, Dr Patel has a calming and genuinely caring manner, which made us all feel comfortable and re-assured under very anxious circumstances. Whilst I have now undergone the necessary treatment Dr Patel has graciously agreed to see me on a regular basis which will help me feel more comfortable with my future health concerns. I cannot praise and thank Dr Patel enough.
I went to see Dr Patel with palpitations, given my family heart history. He listened very carefully and recommended a number of tests before making any decision about my treatment. This was very important for me. I would recommend Dr Patel for his professionalism and approach!
I am very pleased to have been treated by Dr Patel. He told it as it was and was extremely professional every step of the way. I would not hesitate to recommend him to anyone who has a heart problem that needs attention. First class in every respect.
Early in 2017, I started getting tired and breathless during walking or normal daily tasks. The GP referred me to the Cardiology Department in Barnet Hospital, where I met Dr Niket Patel, Consultant Cardiologist for the first time. I found him very pleasant, approachable and charismatic person. He diagnosed my problem, explained the procedure to eliminate it by insertion of the Stent directly into the affected part of an aorta, to increase the blood flow. The procedure took place on 30th May 2017 at IRCU, Royal Free Hospital. Here, I would like to express my sincere thanks and gratitude to you, Dr. Patel, for your diagnosis, your prompt action and your professional support during the procedure to save me from a heart attack in the future. Within days after stent installation I noticed difference in breathing; which became shallower in addition to significantly diminished tiredness during the day. I do realise that it would take some time to restore the level of oxygen in the body to the state before the aorta narrowing had occurred, but so far, I feel more energetic and relaxed. During the follow-up visit Dr. Patel reassured me that my syndrome if it were not spotted in time, it would have probably developed to a serious heart condition. The procedure, therefore, removed the immediate danger of a heart attack. In a word, Dr. Patel as my life saviour, possesses high academic knowledge of cardiology who is able to explain the nature of the problem and to offer the way to eliminate it, in a most approachable and professional manner.
Execllent person with a education as a Doctor very clear &helpfull good knoladge of his field ,I will be always great full to him for his Quick & correct decision making abilities ,I wish him best wishes all the time ‘Best Regards for future
He’s a kind doctor and very caring and professional. Even though I was a first time patient. I would gladly go back to him. Best wishes.
Dr Niket Patel is an excellent, knowledgeable and conscientious doctor. I was treated with great respect and all the tests undertaken were very thorough. Although my particular case did not turn out to be particularly grave, I felt I was treated as seriously as anyone with larger problems.
When l first met with doctor Patel i was very nervous and worried. I found him reassuring and informative in a friendly and relaxed way. Dennis
My experience with Dr Niket Patel was outstanding. He listened very carefully to all my concerns and worries, discussed very thoroughly all the options and tests available and explained in detail all the questions and doubts I had. I will highly recommend him, I felt very comfortable with him and I will use him again in future.
Dr Niket Patel was my cardiologist whilst I recently underwent bypass surgery. I also visited him twice post surgery and his manner, professionalism and expertise were most reassuring. I would certainly turn to Dr Patel in the future should the need arise.
Dr Niket Patel carried out a procedure on me in February 2017 .This was a complete success and he carried this out in the most professional manner .His follow up meetings with me have been both helpful and informative .
Kind. Caring and highly competant A safe pair of hands
Outstanding, professionally and personally. My diagnosis was detailed and the treatment and prognosis was presented in understandable terms. Dr Patels’ qualifications are impressive and his compassion genuine. Anyone being referred to this Doctor is very fortunate indeed. I cannot recommend or thank him enough.-a very grateful.
We consider ourselves very fortunate to have had the opportunity to consult with Dr Patel. His qualifications are impressive and on meeting him we discovered not only a person of knowledge but a a doctor of great warmth and courtesy with an ability to communicate complex medical tests and observations that were comprehensible to John and myself. He is a genuinely caring man and his advice on the future treatment further demonstrated his mastery of his chosen discipline. We should like to wish him every success in his life and thank him - very much
Dr Patel is a very knowledgeable specialist and a caring doctor. Highly recommended.
Contact Dr Niket Patel
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Disk read-and-write head
A hard disk head and arm on a platter
Microphotograph of a hard disk head. The size of the front face is about 0.3 mm. One functional part of the head is the round, orange structure in the middle - the lithographically defined copper coil of the write transducer. Also note the electric connections by wires bonded to gold-plated pads.
Disk read/write heads are the small parts of a disk drive, that move above the disk platter and transform platter's magnetic field into electrical current (read the disk) or vice versa – transform electrical current into magnetic field (write the disk).[1] The heads have gone through a number of changes over the years.
1.1 Traditional heads
1.2 Metal in Gap (MIG)
1.3 Magnetoresistance and giant magnetoresistance
1.4 Tunneling magnetoresistive (TMR)
1.5 Perpendicular magnetic recording (PMR)
In a hard drive, the heads 'fly' above the disk surface with clearance of as little as 3 nanometres. The "flying height" is constantly decreasing to enable higher areal density. The flying height of the head is controlled by the design of an air-bearing etched onto the disk-facing surface of the slider. The role of the air bearing is to maintain the flying height constant as the head moves over the surface of the disk. If the head hits the disk's surface, a catastrophic head crash can result.
Traditional heads
The heads themselves started out similar to the heads in tape recorders—simple devices made out of a tiny C-shaped piece of highly magnetizable material called ferrite wrapped in a fine wire coil. When writing, the coil is energized, a strong magnetic field forms in the gap of the C, and the recording surface adjacent to the gap is magnetized. When reading, the magnetized material rotates past the heads, the ferrite core concentrates the field, and a current is generated in the coil. The gap where the field is very strong and quite narrow. That gap is roughly equal to the thickness of the magnetic media on the recording surface. The gap determines the minimum size of a recorded area on the disk. Ferrite heads are large, and write fairly large features. They must also be flown fairly far from the surface thus requiring stronger fields and larger heads.
Metal in Gap (MIG)
Metal in Gap (MIG) heads are ferrite heads with a small piece of metal in the head gap that concentrates the field. This allows smaller features to be read and written. MIG heads were replaced with thin film heads. Thin film heads were electronically similar to ferrite heads and used the same physics. But they were manufactured using photolithographic processes and thin films of material that allowed fine features to be created. Thin film heads were much smaller than MIG heads and therefore allowed smaller recorded features to be used. Thin film heads allowed 3.5 inch drives to reach 4GB storage capacities in 1995. The geometry of the head gap was a compromise between what worked best for reading and what worked best for writing.
Magnetoresistance and giant magnetoresistance
For more details on this topic, see giant magnetoresistance.
The next head improvement was to optimize the thin film head for writing and to create a separate head for reading. The separate read head uses the magnetoresistive (MR) effect which changes the resistance of a material in the presence of magnetic field. These MR heads are able to read very small magnetic features reliably, but can not be used to create the strong field used for writing. The term AMR (A=anisotropic) is used to distinguish it from the later introduced improvement in MR technology called GMR (giant magnetoresistance). The introduction of the AMR head in 1996 by IBM led to a period of rapid areal density increases of about 100% per year. In 2000 GMR, giant magnetoresistive, heads started to replace AMR read heads.
Tunneling magnetoresistive (TMR)
In 2005, the first drives to use tunneling MR (TMR) heads were introduced by Seagate allowing 400 GB drives with 3 disk platters. Seagate introduced TMR heads featuring integrated microscopic heater coils to control the shape of the transducer region of the head during operation. The heater can be activated prior to the start of a write operation to ensure proximity of the write pole to the disk/medium. This improves the written magnetic transitions by ensuring that the head's write field fully saturates the magnetic disk medium. The same thermal actuation approach can be used to temporarily decrease the separation between the disk medium and the read sensor during the readback process, thus improving signal strength and resolution. By mid-2006 other manufacturers have begun to use similar approaches in their products.
Perpendicular magnetic recording (PMR)
During the same time frame a transition to perpendicular magnetic recording is occurring (PMR), in which for reasons of improved stability and higher areal density potential, the traditional in-plane orientation of magnetization in the disk is being changed to a perpendicular orientation. This has major implications for the write process and the write head structure, as well as for the design of the magnetic disk media or hard disk platter, less directly so for the read sensor of the magnetic head.
Seek time
Tape head
^ Mee, C.; Daniel, Eric D. (1996). Magnetic recording technology. New York: McGraw-Hill. p. 7.1. ISBN 0-07-041276-6.
The PC Guide: Function of the Read/Write Heads
IBM Research: GMR introduction, animations
Hitachi Global Storage Technologies: Recording Head Materials
Hard disk computer storage
Common spotted orchid
read-write head — noun (computing) In a disk drive, a head that can both retrieve and record data • • • Main Entry: ↑read … Useful english dictionary
read/write head — noun (computer science) a tiny electromagnetic coil and metal pole used to write and read magnetic patterns on a disk • Syn: ↑head • Topics: ↑computer science, ↑computing • Hypernyms: ↑coil * * * … Useful english dictionary
Head crash — A head crash in a modern drive. Note circular mark on the platter. A head crash is a hard disk failure that occurs when a read–write head of a hard disk drive comes in contact with its rotating platter, resulting in permanent and usually… … Wikipedia
Disk controller — The disk controller is the circuit which enables the CPU to communicate with a hard disk, floppy disk or other kind of disk drive. Early disk controllers were identified by their storage methods and data encoding. They were typically implemented… … Wikipedia
Head (disambiguation) — In anatomy, the head of an animal is the rostral part (from anatomical position) that usually comprises the brain, eyes, ears, nose, and mouth.Metaphorically, Head may refer to a person who is a leader, supervisor or the like, such as the head of … Wikipedia
Disk II — drives. The Disk II Floppy Disk Subsystem was a 5¼ inch floppy disk drive designed by Steve Wozniak and manufactured by Apple Computer. It was first introduced in 1978 at a retail price of US$495 for pre order; it was later sold for $595… … Wikipedia
read — read1 W1S1 [ri:d] v past tense and past participle read [red] ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ 1¦(words/books)¦ 2¦(find information)¦ 3¦(read and speak)¦ 4¦(music/maps etc)¦ 5¦(computer)¦ 6¦(understand something in a particular way)¦ 7¦(have words on)¦ 8¦(style of… … Dictionary of contemporary English
Disk-drive performance characteristics — are the attributes which control the time it takes to transfer (read or write) data between a computer and a data storage device (most typically disk storage) starting with the initial command from the computer or host until the storage device… … Wikipedia
Disk Defragmenter (Windows) — Disk Defragmenter A component of Microsoft Windows Disk Defragmenter in Windows 7 … Wikipedia
Disk storage — or disc storage is a general category of storage mechanisms, in which data are digitally recorded by various electronic, magnetic, optical, or mechanical methods on a surface layer deposited of one or more planar, round and rotating disks (or… … Wikipedia
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Tourism tourism Instituto Costarricense de Turismo Statistics tourism Costa Rican Hotels Chamber tourist Asociation Costa Rican Tourism Professionals Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería (Costa Rica) Hotel statistics Patricia Duar Statistics tourism decrease Central Bank of Costa Rica Gustavo Araya Hotels
Tourism Statistics Need Improvement
In Costa Rica the current methods for keeping records about the number of tourist arrivals are inefficient, with differences in numbers of up to half a million.
Professionals in the tourism sector believe it is essential to incorporate new tools in order to generate more reliable data regarding the entry of tourists into the country.
One such tool developed by the United Nations and used by several countries are satellite accounts.
"It is a statistical tool designed to measure goods and services consumed by visitors and tourists, allowing valid comparisons with other industries or, rather, between one country to another, or between groups of countries", reported Elfinancierocr.com
Patricia Duarte, executive director of the Association of Tourism Professionals (Acoprot) explained that “this tool has rules and global definitions to assess the true contribution of tourism in terms of percentage of gross domestic product (GDP), direct employment and equity investments. These figures would be seen as more closely tied to reality. "
Source: elfinancierocr.com
Instituto Costarricense de Turismo Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería (Costa Rica) Costa Rican Hotels Chamber Central Bank of Costa Rica Patricia Duar Asociation Costa Rican Tourism Professionals
Statistics Hotel statistics tourism decrease Statistics tourism medical tourism destinations tourism Tourism Statistics
Hotels: Rates in Costa Rica Fall 25%
Because of the restriction measures decreed in the country due to the covid-19 outbreak, between March and April of this year the average hotel rate for two people decreased from $160 to $120.
According to the "Monetary Policy Report" prepared by the Central Bank of Costa Rica (BCCR), in the face of the health crisis, hotel occupancy in the country has plummeted in the first four months of the year, from 90% in January to 15% in April.
Worrying Drop in Hotel Occupancy Rates
Hotel entrepreneurs in Costa Rica attribute the decline in occupancy rates to a lesser flow of US tourists visiting the country, which in the first half fell by 2%.
According to the results of an occupancy survey carried out by the Costa Rican Chamber of Hotels among its affiliates, hotel occupancy fell by 5% in June compared to the same month in 2016, and projections for the coming months are not very flattering.
Hotel Business Expanding in Nicaragua
The rate of annual growth of the sector has been estimated at 3%, and to date there are a total of more than one thousand hotels with 14 thousand rooms.
Most hoteliers in Nicaragua agree that growth has been very positive, but they are aware of the need to accelerate the speed with which the sector is developing in order to compete with other destinations with a higher level of sophistication and development in this service.
Hotel Market Statistics in Costa Rica
Up to December 2015 2.559 hotels with 47,452 rooms were registered in the country, of which 70% are located in the city and at the beach.
Market figures have not yet reached the levels recorded before the crisis of 2008, when the Costa Rican Chamber of Hotels counted 2,599 hotels in operation, spread across different areas of the country, but are instead concentrated in the large metropolitan area and coastal areas.
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Go to main content [shortcut key S] : COVID-19: Twenty-Five New Positive Cases and Seventeen Recoveries on Tuesday 12 January
Coronavirus (Covid-2019)
COVID-19: Twenty-Five New Positive Cases and Seventeen Recoveries on Tuesday 12 January
News of theme "Coronavirus (Covid-2019)"
12 January 2021 Press release
Twenty-five new positive cases of COVID-19 were identified on Tuesday 12 January.
This therefore brings the overall health figures for the Principality to 1,092 people affected by the Coronavirus since the beginning of the health crisis.
This evening, twenty-five people are being treated at the CHPG: sixteen patients, eight of whom are residents, are hospitalised. Moreover, this evening, nine people, six of whom are residents, are in intensive care.
Sadly, a 75-year-old resident died this morning at the CHPG. This person had tested positive for the SARS-CoV virus and had been treated in the hospital. This is the seventh death of a resident.
The Prince's Government extends its sincere condolences to the family and friends of this person. It wishes to assure them of its full support at this time of sorrow.
Today, there are 17 further recoveries to be noted. The total number of people who have recovered thus amounts to 900.
This Tuesday evening, 124 people are being monitored by the Home Patient Follow-up Centre, which provides medical support to people with mild symptoms, who are invited to self-isolate at home.
In line with the practices adopted by the World Health Organization and neighbouring countries in this regard, these daily health assessment figures report only on resident persons affected by the Coronavirus.
Covid-19 : 24 nouveaux cas positifs et 15 guérisons ce vendredi 15 janvier
Le Gouvernement Princier suspend le délai de carence de trois jours en cas d’arrêt de travail en vue d’un dépistage PCR
COVID-19: Seventeen New Positive Cases and Twenty-One Recoveries on Thursday 14 January
COVID-19: 4 new positive cases and 20 recoveries on Sunday 10 January
http://en.gouv.mc/Policy-Practice/Coronavirus-Covid-2019/Actualites/COVID-19-Twenty-Five-New-Positive-Cases-and-Seventeen-Recoveries-on-Tuesday-12-January
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Battle of Honain
:S.M.R. Shabbar
Adopted from the book : "Story of the Holy Ka’aba And its People" by : "S.M.R. Shabbar"
The Victory of Makka brought many non believers into the fold of Islam. Broadly speaking there were three types who embraced Islam. Fear, greed and the true understanding of Islam and its principles. Some of the Makkans became muslims for fear of their lives, they were afraid that the Prophet would kill them, others were simply frightened that the Holy Prophet with the help of Angel Gabriel would bring the wrath of God on them. Then there was greed that Islam was now victorious, so if they joined in the good life would be theirs for free. Very few of them truly understood Islam and accepted it as a true faith. The Test of their true faith came immediately after the fall of Makka while muslims were still in the sweet pleasure of this bloodless victory,that various tribes outside Makka gathered an army of 20,000 in Taif to fight the muslims. The hostile tribes decided to attack at a vantage point at Hunain and selected two prominent places where they concealed their archers. The Muslims were proud of their success in Makka,but their behaviour during the encounter was timorous and cowardly. Qur'an tells us this in Sura Tauba V9 “God came to your help on so many occasions, on the day of Honain, your vanity in the number of your soldiers and your arrogance did not prove any avail to you, you were badly defeated and could not find any place of shelter, you started running away without shame.”
This encounter took place in the month of Shawwal 8th Hijri (Jan 630 AD). When the muslim army marched towards the place where archers were concealed the enemy opened the campaign with such a severe onslaught that the muslim army could not stand it. Their assault was fierce and confusion in the muslim ranks made the archers bolder and they came nearer and attacked from both flanks and from the front. The muslims could not stand the attack and started running without putting any resistance and where not concerned to leave the Prophet alone,(see Saheeh Bukhari)
The first battalion to run was the one in the command of Khalid ibne Waleed(Rauzathus Safa vol II pafw 137) This was followed by such a disorderly and tumultuous flight that only 10 people were left out of an army of 15,000 with the Holy Prophet. Eight of them were of Bani Hashim,(.Abbas, two of his sons, Ali and three other cousins of the Holy Prophet)
Abbas was shouting to the muslims to come back, reminding them of the oath of allegiance taken and promises made, but it was to no avail. Those who accepted Islam for greed , wealth and power were not willing to risk their lives.Many of them who had carefully hidden their enmity from the rising power were happy at the defeat. They gathered round Abu Sofian, started congratulating him and saying, "The magical circle of the lying Prophet is broken,” They were praying for the return of Polytheism. 1.
Once again it fell to the lot of Ali(AS) to save the Holy Prophet and the Islam. Armies of Bani Hawaazen and Banu Saqeef under cover of their archers were rushing the hillock and were getting ready for a fierce onslaught. Ali(AS) divided the small band of faithful true muslims in three divisions; to Abdullah Ibne Masood, Abbas ibne Abdul Muttalib and Abu bin Harris has assigned the duty of protecting the Holy Prophet, to three he ordered to guard the rear and he himself faced the onslaught with only three warriors with him. He fought, wounded at many places,but continue fighting when he faced the commander of the hostile army, Abu Jerdal in hand to hand fight and killed him with one stroke of his sword. He alone killed over 30 of the enemy and with this bravery his aids also fought bravely and enemy was defeated.The day was saved, the commander of the enemy’s army was killed,their ranks were broken they had no courage to face Ali(AS) and they started retreating. The sight of the powerful army in retreat, made the fleeing muslims bold and they came back as victory was won for them 2.
The defensive battles were over and the peaceful spread of Islam began. Ali(AS) was again in the forefront. He brought the whole tribe of bani Hamdan to Islam by preaching . Similarly when he was sent to Yemen he brought the whole country in to the fold of Islam by his sermons. This news so pleased the Holy Prophet that he bowed down in Sajdah to thank God three times and said loudly, peace be to Bani Hamdan and to Ali. Again in the year 10th of Hijra Ali’s sermon and preachings proved so effective that the whole province embraced Islam as one man.
In the 9th year of Hijra the famous event of Mobahela took place. Najran was a city in the province of Yemen. It was the centre of Christian Missionary activities in southern Arabia. The Holy Prophet had written to the Chief Priest of the City to realize the blessings of Islam. In reply he wrote that he personally would like to discuss the teachings of this new religion. His name was Haris. He was invited and came with a group of 14 priests. These priests as guest of the Holy Prophet. Long discussions took place during the course of 4 days of their stay in Madina. When Sunday came the Chief priest wanted to go out of the city to have their Sunday Service. Prophet Islam said that they all have permission to conduct their religious service inside the mosque of the Prophet which they happily did. Long discussions continued about monotheism verses trinity and it was realised that these priests were not open minded, on the contrary they were prejudiced against monotheism. The Almighty Lord ordered the Holy Prophet to explain to tthat “ Verily Jesus is as Adam in the sight of God. He created Adam from dust. He said unto him, Be, and he was. This is truth from thy Lord. be not therefore one of those who doubt, and whoever shall dispute thee, say unto them, “come let us call together our sons and your sons, our women and your women, our Selves and your Selves, then let us make imprecations and lay the curse of God upon those who lie. (Sura Ale Imran, V. 61) According to Bibi Ayesha when the above verse was revealed to the Apostle of God, he called Ali, Fatima, Hasan and Hussain and said, “Lord, this is my family (Ahlulbayt). The Holy Prophet took this small family with them to the open land outside the city where they all assembled to bring the curse of God on those who lie. When the Chief priest saw these faces, he told his companions that he was looking at the faces that if they call the mountain, the mountain will go them. Do not have Mobahela with them or you will be destroyed. On hearing this they all agreed to pay homage to the Holy Prophet and an annual tax for living in the Islamic State and withdrew from the scene.
Prev: Ali (AS) The First Imam
Next: Designation of Ali as successor to the Prophet
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Government bats for LED bulbs again, wants mass use
The government today called upon people to use energy-efficient LED bulbs, saying every unit of energy saved can be used to light the home of a poor household.
NEW DELHI: The government today called upon people to use energy-efficient LED bulbs, saying every unit of energy saved can be used to light the home of a poor household.
"Every unit of energy we save can be used to light the home of a poor person. I urge all to use LED bulbs. #ILEDTheWay," Power and Coal Minister Piyush Goyal said in a tweet.
Maintaining that India has one of the least energy consumption levels in the world, Goyal said still 250 million people go without power.
"India has one of the least energy consumption levels in the world - 1,100 units per capita. Still, 250 million people go without access to energy," the minister tweeted.
"If all 770 million bulbs are replaced with LEDs, India will save 100 billion units in power consumption every year."
The state-run Energy Efficiency Services Ltd (EESL) is distributing 4 lakh LEDs per day under the DELP programme without any subsidy, which will be scaled up to 10 lakh a day later this year, Goyal said.
It has been able to procure LED bulbs for about Rs 73 per piece as of June, down from Rs 310 in February 2014, a reduction of over 75 per cent.
"One unit of energy saved is equal to 1.3 units of energy generated. Youth can play a phenomenal part in energy conservation efforts," Goyal added in the tweet feed.
EESL
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