Earlier this year, Premier John Horgan announced that the British Columbia government was prepared to offer billions of dollars in tax breaks to Royal Dutch Shell should the global fossil fuel giant build a massive liquefied natural gas plant on our province’s north coast.
Absent from the news then, however, was any mention of how the public is being shortchanged billions of dollars in revenues from the fossil fuel industry regardless of whether Shell proceeds with its LNG Canada project or not.
Happily picking up where the previous BC government left off, the current government allows Shell and its competitors to dramatically reduce the royalties they pay on natural gas and other hydrocarbons they drill and frack from the ground in BC’s northeast quarter.
Now, in an ominous development, our government says we are not even entitled to know how much the government actually subsidizes individual energy companies.
In mid-March, the government passed an amendment to the Petroleum and Natural Gas Act. Ministry of Finance officials say the new “confidentiality” provision prevents them from disclosing what individual fossil fuel companies pay in royalties.
If this stands, British Columbians of all political leanings ought to worry.
Why? Because you and I and everyone else in the province own our natural resources, including natural gas. We are entitled to a share of their value and the royalties paid by fossil fuel companies reflect that reality. For that reason, all British Columbians deserve transparency about how royalty fees are calculated and what is actually paid.
Companies like Shell gain access to our fossil fuel resources when our government sells them “subsurface rights”. After those sales, companies may produce natural gas and other fossil fuels by drilling and fracking them from the ground. But once they do so, they must pay royalties on what they extract. Those royalties then help the provincial government pay for a very tiny portion of our health, education and other public service costs.
I say tiny because the public benefits derived from those royalties are dropping faster than a stone through water.
In fiscal year 2008, according to the “upstream development division” of BC’s Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources, British Columbians received $1.16 billion in royalty revenues. By 2017, however, revenues had fallen nearly 90 per cent to $147 million. Yet over that same time, natural gas production shot up 72 per cent and production of gas liquids such as condensate entered the stratosphere, climbing by 250 per cent. Virtually all of the increased output was piped east to Alberta’s oil sands industry.
Now, the government that provided those generous subsidies says the public is not entitled to know what individual companies pay in royalties.
Is our government afraid to let us know? You be the judge.
Every time Shell or its competitors drill deep or horizontal wells in BC – even though such wells are standard industry practice – our government grants them credits allowing them to claim back part of the costs of doing so. The credits translate into far lower royalty payments on the natural gas and gas liquids those companies produce.
In each of the last 10 years, Shell and others used those credits to reduce their royalties by a massive amount. In the last six years in particular, the write-downs were never less than 60 per cent and as high as 73 per cent. What this means is that collectively over the past decade British Columbians lost nearly $5 billion in additional royalty revenues.
And the subsidy train has only just pulled out of the station.
In a startling disclosure last November, BC Energy Minister Michelle Mungall said the current value of outstanding credits is $3.2 billion – a whopping $1.1 billion more than the previous year. That eyebrow-raising jump in the credit account is two times greater than the previous record for an annual increase. Yet when asked to elaborate on the unprecedented increase, Mungall’s communication’s director, David Haslam, declined to provide any concrete explanation.
That $3.2 billion and growing pile of credits represents money that you and I will never see.
But if we want to know what individual companies have stockpiled as credits, what they claim as credits each year or what they pay in net royalties we can forget it.
In February, I filed a Freedom of Information request with the Ministry of Finance asking for copies of all royalty invoices. My request was denied. This “sensitive” information could not be disclosed because it would be “harmful” to business interests.
I then asked for just a simple list of what individual fossil fuel companies paid in total annual royalties. This too was denied. David Currie, head of the Ministry’s communications department, not only said that the information was “proprietary” but that the amended Petroleum and Natural Gas Act expressly forbid the government from releasing it.
This is astonishing. For decades our government has sung a far different tune when it comes to BC’s publicly owned forest resources. Any one of us can use a government-maintained database to determine exactly what companies pay for the trees they log in publicly owned forests. That’s information on a renewable resource that actually benefits our climate.
I did such a search recently and learned that Canfor Corporation – a sizeable chunk of which is owned by BC billionaire Jimmy Pattison – paid $7.3 million last year in stumpage fees for nearly 410,000 cubic metres of trees that the company logged on just a portion of the public forests in which it operates. Is this a fair return? That’s a reasonable question, one we can happily debate precisely because we have access to the data.
That we are apparently forbidden from accessing similar information on fossil fuel companies that exploit non-renewable resources whose uses have dire consequences for our planet is a travesty.
And it will be even more of a travesty in the event Premier Horgan’s promised subsidies help give birth to a massive, new LNG plant in our province.
If we fear the public returns and consequences are bad now, just think how much worse they will be if LNG one day sends gas-drilling and fracking into the stratosphere.
Author: Ben Parfitt
Ben is the resource policy analyst with the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives – BC Office. He has received numerous awards for his investigative journalism, is a co-author and author of two books on forestry, and is a long-established researcher and policy analyst specializing in natural resource management and environmental issues. Reports and analysis for the CCPA–BC include Fracking, First Nations and Water: Respecting Indigenous rights and better protecting our shared resources (June 2017); A Dam Big Problem: Regulatory breakdown as fracking companies in BC’s northeast build dozens of unauthorized dams (May 2017); From disenfranchised to revitalized: Ten proposals to set our forests and BC’s rural communities on a new course (March 2016); Counting Every Drop: The case for water use reporting in BC (June 2013); and Fracking Up Our Water, Hydro Power and Climate: BC’s reckless pursuit of shale gas (November 2011).


The iPhone, a revolutionary device that redefined the way we communicate, work, and play, has a storied history filled with groundbreaking innovations and technological advancements. From its humble beginnings to its current status as one of the most iconic consumer electronics products in the world, the iPhone’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the history of the iPhone, exploring its evolution from the original iPhone to the latest iterations.
The Birth of the iPhone
The story of the iPhone began in 2007 when Apple’s co-founder and then-CEO, Steve Jobs, took the stage at Macworld Expo. Jobs introduced the world to the first iPhone, a device that combined a phone, an iPod, and an internet communication device into a single sleek package. This game-changing product was an instant success, setting the stage for a mobile revolution.
iPhone Generations: An Evolutionary Timeline
- iPhone (2007): The original iPhone featured a 3.5-inch display, a 2-megapixel camera, and 4GB or 8GB of storage. It ran on the first version of iOS, then called iPhone OS, and introduced the multi-touch interface, which is now a standard in the industry.
- iPhone 3G (2008): The iPhone 3G brought 3G network connectivity, GPS, and the App Store, allowing users to download and install third-party applications. It was a major step forward in terms of speed and functionality.
- iPhone 3GS (2009): The “S” stood for speed, and the iPhone 3GS delivered just that with a faster processor and improved camera. It also introduced video recording.
- iPhone 4 (2010): The iPhone 4 marked a design overhaul with its glass front and back, Retina display, and a front-facing camera for FaceTime calls. It was a major leap in both aesthetics and hardware.
- iPhone 4S (2011): The iPhone 4S introduced Siri, Apple’s voice-controlled virtual assistant, and featured an upgraded camera. It was known for its improved performance.
- iPhone 5 (2012): The iPhone 5 featured a larger 4-inch screen, a thinner design, and faster LTE connectivity. It was a significant departure in terms of form factor.
- iPhone 5C and 5S (2013): Apple introduced two models—the colorful iPhone 5C and the premium iPhone 5S. The latter introduced the Touch ID fingerprint sensor and a 64-bit processor, setting new standards for security and performance.
- iPhone 6 and 6 Plus (2014): Apple went big with these models, offering larger 4.7-inch and 5.5-inch displays. These phones also marked the arrival of Apple Pay and optical image stabilization in the Plus model.
- iPhone 6S and 6S Plus (2015): The 6S series brought 3D Touch, Live Photos, and improved camera technology. It continued the trend of iterative design improvements.
- iPhone SE (2016): The iPhone SE combined the compact form factor of the iPhone 5 with the hardware of the iPhone 6S, offering a budget-friendly alternative.
The Modern Era
From 2017 onwards, the iPhone continued to evolve with each new generation, introducing features like Face ID, wireless charging, and advanced camera systems. The iPhone X, released in 2017, marked a significant design shift with its edge-to-edge OLED display. Subsequent models, including the iPhone XS, iPhone 11, and iPhone 12, built upon this foundation, further enhancing performance and camera capabilities.
The Future of iPhone
As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, the latest model is the iPhone 13. Apple continues to innovate with each new iteration, focusing on performance, camera enhancements, and software improvements. With the iPhone 15 and beyond, we can expect even more groundbreaking features and technologies that will shape the future of mobile communication and computing.
The iPhone’s history is a testament to Apple’s commitment to innovation, design excellence, and user experience. From its inception in 2007 to its current status as a global cultural icon, the iPhone has transformed the way we live and work. As we eagerly anticipate the next chapter in the iPhone story, one thing is certain: the legacy of innovation and excellence will continue to define this iconic device.


From the Missouri District (LCMS) office:
By now many of you have some information regarding the devastating tornado that struck Joplin, Mo., Sunday evening. The reports I have received indicate that up to 75% of the city of 50,000 has sustained some damage with much of the damage catastrophic. As of 7:00 a.m. Monday, the media was reporting 89 confirmed deaths and it is anticipated that that number will increase as search and rescue efforts continue.
Immanuel Lutheran Church is the only LCMS congregation in Joplin. The principal, Jeremy Schamber, reports that the school is damaged and at this time is unsafe to enter. It appears that the church did not sustain significant damage. The parsonage received structural damage including the loss of its roof.
The pastor of Immanuel, Rev. Gregory Mech, and his wife are uninjured. Likewise, the principal of the school and the DCE are both safe. Jason Glaskey, DCE, just sent a message via Facebook that all of Immanuel’s staff are now safe and accounted for. The homes of three of the Christian Day School teachers were destroyed. The brother of one of the teachers was killed.
Only approved emergency responders are permitted to enter Joplin. We have no information regarding specific needs and ask that all desiring to provide assistance please wait for a list of needs to be published. We will provide a list once that it has been developed. In the meantime, even for those with insurance, there will be immediate need for cash assistance. You can send cash assistance to:
The Missouri District Disaster Fund
The Missouri District – LCMS
660 Mason Ridge Center Dr. – Suite 100
St. Louis, MO 63141
We give thanks and praise to God for the countless lives that were spared. We pray God’s comfort and blessings upon all of the families that mourn the death of loved ones. We ask God to bless the ministry to the injured and upon all the recovery efforts. Please keep all the residents of Joplin in your prayers.
Through this disaster in Joplin we are once again reminded how temporary this world is. Thanks be to God that through faith in His Son Jesus Christ, all who believe in Him have His promise of a life that will never end. As the Scriptures teach, “For me to live is Christ and to die is gain.”
—-Rev. Ray Mirly, President, Missouri District of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod


Joanna Quinn in conversation with Tracy Chevalier
23 March 2023, 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Spend an evening with Joanna Quinn and best-selling author Tracy Chevalier as they discuss Quinn’s debut novel, The Whalebone Theatre, a brilliant coming-of-age story set in Dorset before and during World War II. The novel was dubbed ‘the Book of the Summer’ by the Sunday Times in 2022.
The novel centres around Cristabel Seagrave, an unwanted orphan who grows into an unmarriageable young woman, with no place for her in a traditional English manor. But from the day that a whale washes up on the beach at the Chilcombe estate in Dorset, and twelve-year-old Cristabel plants her flag and claims it as her own, she is determined to do things differently.
With her step-parents blithely distracted by their endless party guests, Cristabel and her siblings bring a homegrown theatre to life, providing their own kind of education. As the children grow to adulthood and war arrives, they find themselves drawn into the conflict, with each finding different dramatic roles to play…
Joanna Quinn was born in London and grew up in Dorset, where her debut novel The Whalebone Theatre is set. Joanna has worked in journalism and the charity sector. She is also a short story writer, published by The White Review and Comma Press among others. She lives in a village near the sea in Dorset.
Tracy Chevalier is the author of 10 novels, including the international bestseller Girl with a Pearl Earring and Remarkable Creatures, about the Dorset fossil hunter Mary Anning. Tracy grew up in Washington DC and moved to the UK in the 1980s. She and her husband divide their time between London and the Piddle Valley. She is a Trustee of the Dorset Museum and the British Library, and a Patron of the Dorchester Literature Festival and the Lyme Regis Museum.


HIV+ man arrested for child sexual abuse
The writer has posted comments on this articleTNN | Jan 20, 2012, 01.28AM IST
GURGAON: The manager of a city-based NGO was arrested on Thursday for allegedly sexually abusing two minor girls, who were inmates of the childcare centre.
One of the victims is HIV positive. Shockingly, the main accused Ankur Gupta (42) is also HIV positive. Police here said that his mother, who has also been named in the FIR, would soon be arrested.
Gupta, manager of Drone Foundation, had been absconding since Tuesday night after police raided the NGO's premises and rescued the 14 kids, including eight girls. Police have recorded the statements of the two victims (aged 9 and 12).
Sources said the victims' medical reports confirmed sexual abuse. While the 12-year-old girl is HIV positive, the nine-year-old is not and no infection was detected at the time of the medical test. Investigators said the child would be subjected to subsequent tests over the next few months to find out whether she has contracted the virus.
Cops said Gupta was nabbed from IFFCO Chowk between 4.30pm and 5pm when he was about to board a bus to Jaipur.
"He was hiding behind bushes close to the bus stop and when the bus arrived, he hurriedly tried to board it," said Arvind Dahiya, SHO of Bhondsi police station. He will be produced before a city court on Friday.
DCP (south) Hamid Akhtar said, "We are investigating the role of Ankur's mother Sunita Gupta. Most likely, she would also be arrested on Friday." Sunita is the president of Drone Foundation.
These two victims had earlier filed a complaint with National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) that they were being sexually abused by Gupta. After the police raid on Tuesday night, the eight girls residing at the Drone Foundation were transferred to Naz Foundation in Delhi. The Gurgaon administration reportedly plans to shift the boys to a protection home in Rewari.
A team of officials from state's health department and State AIDS Control Society from Panchkula is also here to investigate the case.
Sunita, however, claimed that her son is innocent and is being framed as a part of conspiracy by a former employee of the NGO.
She alleged that the employee's 14-year-old son and other two inmates had sexually abused the girls sometime back. Consequently, they were thrown out of the home along with the employee. "To take revenge, this employee informed the child right activists," she alleged.
Sunita said that she had given information to police about her son's whereabouts on Wednesday night.


The number of people killed or injured in drink-driving related incidents typically goes up at this time of year, a local authority has warned.
According to Wokingham Borough Council, many people believe the number of casualties reaches its highest level during the Christmas party season.
However, the authority said it actually hits a peak throughout the summer months. As a result, it has launched a campaign to highlight the dangers of drink-driving.
Posters and leaflets are being distributed to pubs and sports and social clubs in the region to push the message that drivers could still be intoxicated if they take to the road the morning after having a few drinks.
Julie Pillai, road safety officer at Wokingham Borough Council, commented: “With the longer summer evenings and the prospect of barbeques, garden parties, weddings and family gatherings, it’s all too easy to forget how many glasses of wine or beer have been topped up during the day.”
Ms Pillai acknowledged that people often “do the right thing” by ensuring someone in their party stays sober and acts as a designated driver, or perhaps arrange an alternative means of getting home from a night out.
However, she said many individuals do not realise how long it can take for alcohol to clear their system and are therefore getting behind the wheel while they are over the legal limit.
Wokingham Borough Council added that it takes an hour for the body to break down one unit of alcohol, which means a person who drinks three large glasses up until midnight should not drive until 13:00 the next day.
A similar publicity drive is currently being run by Sussex Police, which has urged people not to drive if they are unsure about whether they might be over the limit the morning after having a few drinks.
Chief Inspector Phil Nicholas said there is no “hard and fast” rule on how much a person can drink and still be within the legal threshold. This, he stated, means not driving even after having just one drink is the “only safe option”.


EPA Honors Virgin Islands Environmental Champions
Fri May 13 2016 04:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)
The EPA honored just two organizations, including Clean Sweep Frederiksted, in the U.S. Virgin Islands with the Environmental Champion Awards.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has honored two organizations from the U.S. Virgin Islands with Environmental Champion Awards for their achievements in protecting public health and the environment. EPA Regional Administrator Judith A. Enck was joined by Murray Fisher, founder of the New York Harbor School, to present the awards to this year’s recipients at a ceremony at the EPA’s offices in Manhattan. The awards are presented annually.
“It is a privilege for EPA to be able to recognize the dedication and accomplishments of these environmental trailblazers,” said Enck. “These individuals and organizations from the U.S. Virgin Islands are an inspiration, encouraging us to do our best to protect the environment every day.”
The Environmental Champion Award winners from the U.S. Virgin Islands are:
Clean Sweep Frederiksted
Clean Sweep Frederiksted is a grassroots initiative with the mission to support the economic development and revitalization of the Frederiksted Historic District through targeted litter cleanups. The organization has developed a program called Adopt‐a‐Spot, where individuals, schools, businesses, civic groups, or churches commit to keeping a specific area clear of litter. They also transformed Cruzan rum barrels into trash receptacles that are painted by local volunteers. To date, volunteers have donated over 4,000 hours of service valued at over $95,000.


An amazing occurrence happened in South Africa when 31 elephants made a “Journey To Pay their Respect.
How did they know? Something that is greater and deeper than human intelligence informed them that their hero– he man who had saved their lives and many other animals–had made his transition from this earthly world.
Lawrence Anthony (1950–2012), a legend in South Africa and author of 3 books including the bestseller “The Elephant Whisperer,” bravely rescued wildlife and rehabilitated elephants all over the globe from human atrocities, including the courageous rescue of Baghdad Zoo animals during the US invasion in 2003.
On March 7, 2012 Lawrence Anthony died. Two days after his passing, the wild elephants showed up at his home led by two large matriarchs. Separate wild herds arrived in droves to say goodbye to their beloved man-friend’. A total of 31 elephants had patiently walked over 12 miles to reach his South African House.
Witnessing this spectacle, humans were obviously in awe not only because of the supreme intelligence and precise timing that these elephants sensed about Lawrence’s passing, but also because of the profound memory and emotion the beloved animals evoked in such an organized way. Walking slowly – for days – they made their way in a solemn one-by-one queue from their habitat in the wild bush to his house.
Lawrence’s wife, Francoise, was especially touched, knowing that the elephants had not been to his house prior to that day for well over 3 years! But yet they knew where they were going and they seemed to know why they were going to Lawrence’s home. The elephants obviously wanted to pay their deep respects, honoring their human friend who had saved their lives–so much respect that they stayed for 2 days 2 nights without eating anything.
After honoring Lawrence Anthony in the only way they could–in this touching and memorable tribute to the man who had saved them and many other animals around the world–these sentient creatures had proven they are wiser and more compassionate than the human race will ever be or ever realize. Then one morning, they left, making their long journey back home..."


Sussex Field Notes is a blog written and compiled by Sophie May Lewis, a naturalist and writer from West Sussex.
In November 2016 Sussex Field Notes became the new combined home of my previous blogs, “SophiEco Wild” and “The Oak By The Rife Local Patch” which included posts from The Cutty Garden Allotment.
Please read on to find out more about myself, and the blog.
Sussex girl through-and-through I draw inspiration from the landscape and nature around my home, as well as the layers of history and stories that weave through it.
There is more to every landscape than the ‘urban jungle’ or ‘green and pleasant land’ that meets the eye. If you listen or look carefully, it isn’t hard to find the undercurrents of times and lives that have passed before, that have shaped and continue to shape the story and pattern of our countryside and towns.
Connecting people with nature, of all ages and backgrounds, is something I have always thought to be very important. I consider an appreciation of the wonderful wildlife of our own ‘backyards and local patch’ to be vital to this connection, due to the accessibility, and capacity to create a sense of ownership, empowerment and passion for its protection, that being close to our homes and everyday life brings.
I am a strong believer of the benefits of green space and nature in our lives, both personal and within the wider community, and in terms of physical and mental wellbeing.
I write both prose and poetry, sharing many of my musings via my blogs and social media. I also enjoy photography, and like to explore new angles of familiar subjects. Butterflies and flowers, trees and signposts, gardens and animals, landscapes and wildlife, and rural heritage; all of these appear under the focus of my camera lens or the scribbling of my pen.
I am known to spend hours in second hand bookshops sniffing out volumes of old sussex writings, or to pull into a lay-by to soak up a view, photograph a sunset, or identify roadkill a few yards behind! My favourite bird, if you can have one, must be the wren. I often declare that all my work would be better if t could be written whilst walking.
In 2009 ago I began my first blog, and discovered the joy of sharing my experiences of the world, and my passions with readers across the world. I have received comments on my posts from as far as America and Romania,as well as here in the UK. During this time I have developed my own writing ‘voice’, and continue to learn how to connect with my audience and express myself through crafted words. It often seems to be the posts about place, and our relationship with landscape and the environment, as well as those celebrating the wonder and beauty of nature, which most seem to strike a cord with readers.
Primarily nature writing, themes also occasionally wander off into family history, art, politics, culture, food, farming and other inspirations.
SophiEco Wild evolved into Sussex Field Notes and now also features guides and prompts to help readers engage and support nature in their own lives. The conversation continues on Twitter and the Facebook page.
In the early days of December 2014, I invited the world to ‘go for a walk’ together via a new blog, “The Oak By The Rife”. I have used this blog to record my experiences and discoveries of nature, within the set parameters of a 2mile radius of my front door. Together, you (the readers of the blog) and I have explored the patch in it’s naked winter form,welcomed back spring migrants who’s arrival sends our spirits soaring almost as high as the skylark song, and we have wallowed in the sluggish haze of summer days. I look forward to completing the year’s cycle with the joys of harvest and the preparations of the land for winter, before seeing what thrills and simple beauties the next seasons bring.
‘The Oak By The Rife’ was chosen as the BBC Wildlife Magazine’s ‘Blog of the week” on their social media platforms, in August 2015.
In February 2016, the Oak By The Rife patch blog saw the addition of a new section, following my adventures on the patch within the patch: my allotment, known as The Cutty Garden.
In November 2016 Sussex Field Notes became the new combined home of my previous blogs, “SophiEco Wild” and “The Oak By The Rife Local Patch”, including posts from The Cutty Garden Allotment.


February 13, 2020
GVX Breaks Ground
Construction is expected to begin this year on 16 of the 26 buildings planned for Grandview Crossing, on the north side of Dublin Road east of Grandview Avenue. The 56-acre site, a former landfill, has been targeted for development for almost 20 years.
Almost two decades after developers first targeted the site, construction has begun to convert a former Grandview-area landfill into a 56-acre development featuring offices, shops, restaurants, apartments, a senior center and a hotel.
Work started this week on an office building and two apartment buildings, the first structures in the long-awaited Grandview Crossing development, on the north side of Dublin Road east of Grandview Avenue.


Guess what, guys! The author of Ideal Global Equality (that’s me) is about to get his first paper published. Woooo! I just want to take the time to thank you for taking interest in my blog. Seeing the traffic and interactions here has inspired me to work harder towards my goal.
My paper or article, if everything goes well, will be appearing in my local newspaper. They liked it so much they might take me on as a part time writer. They love my views about equality and want to see more. I’ll have to share a snippet of the paper when it comes out but for now I’ll briefly tell you what my article’s about.
In my article I stress the importance of teaching inequality in elementary school as a means of combating a host of different social problems, one of them being bullying. I believe children who are aware of inequality are less prone to make fun of others for being less fortunate.
I think it’ll be a cool read for those interested. It took me weeks to write, as there’s a lot of research involved. Once again I just want to say thank you for taking interest in this here blog. Together we can make a big change in the world. Bye for now!


In this e-guide:
In this e-guide find out how a group of Dutch banks are getting together to pool their data resources in the fight against money laundering.
Banks across the world are failing to stop money laundering, a massive proportion of which is associated with organised crime, and with regulators beginning to hand out large fines, banks now see investment in anti-money laundering a necessity. ING, one of the banks in the project, was fined €775m last year after the regulator said the bank failed to prevent the laundering of hundreds of millions of euros between 2010 and 2016.
The vast number of transactions being processed by the five Dutch banks can give great insights about the behavior of people initiating them. Together, the five banks involved handle 9.8 billion payment transactions every year, or 27 million transactions each day.
Applying technology like machine learning to transaction data could significantly increase the proportion of money laundering activity that is detected and blocked, which as a percentage is currently in the low single digits.
It is projects like this that are driving demand for data science skills. To this end a Dutch initiative is trying to put the country on the AI map. Read more about it in this e-guide and find out how the UAE is going about establishing itself as an AI hub of expertise in preparation for future economic benefit.
ABN Amro investigation lends weight to anti-money laundering collaboration by Dutch banks
Dutch bank ABN Amro is being investigated by regulators for allegedly failing to properly monitor and report potential money laundering activity.
Regulators are clamping down on banks that have inadequate technology and processes in place to spot money laundering activity, much of which is linked to terrorism and organised crime.
The criminal investigation by the Dutch public prosecution department was announced in a statement from the bank.
“The Dutch public prosecutor informed ABN Amro that the bank is the subject of an investigation relating to requirements under the act on the prevention of money laundering and financing of terrorism,” the statement said. “ABN Amro will cooperate fully with the investigation.”
Currently, only a small percentage of money laundering activity is spotted. With regulators clamping down on banks failing to prevent it, IT departments will play an important role in ensuring banks comply with strict regulation and avoid heavy fines. Tech startups are also building businesses around this problem.
ING was fined €775m in 2018 after the regulator said the bank had failed to prevent the laundering of hundreds of millions of euros between 2010 and 2016.
Bambos Tsiattalou, founding partner at specialist criminal and civil litigation firm Stokoe Partnership Solicitors, said: “ABN Amro’s failings to prevent money laundering over a long period of time highlights a systemic problem within the banking sector. Such organisations must adopt a more risk-based approach towards anti-money laundering, in particular how they conduct due diligence.”
According to the Dutch banking association, NVB, about €16bn of criminal money is circulating in the Netherlands, most of which is connected to the drugs trade.
Banks in the Netherlands – ABN Amro among them – recently announced a collaboration that will see them work together to improve their ability to spot suspicious transaction activity that could be linked to money laundering.
ING, Rabobank, Triodos Bank, ABN Amro and Volksbank are to set up an organisation that will monitor their combined transactions, with the aim of improving their chances of identifying and stopping money laundering.
The banks, which between them handle 9.8 billion payment transactions every year, plan to jointly set up a standalone operation that will combine huge volumes of transaction data with their vast IT expertise to focus on anti-money laundering (AML).
The group of banks involved could expand beyond five if the project is successful. There are options for banks as startups focus on an area where regulations are getting tighter and the risk of heavy fines is forcing banks to invest in anti-money laundering products and services. Tech startup Comply Advantage provides ondemand cloud services to banks, via Amazon Web Services (AWS), including transaction monitoring.
Luke Mawbey, vice-president of engineering at the company, said financial services companies need to understand who they are doing business with. He said the company works with large banks across the world.
“The reason we exist is because the problem with money laundering and terrorism financing is so badly addressed. About $2tn is currently laundered every year – less than 3% is detected and a small part of this prevented,” said Mawbey. “This cannot be considered a success – it needs to be approached in a different way.”
The traditional way of collecting data to spot money laundering is intensely manual, including analysts reading articles and updating profiles, and doesn’t use modern computing techniques, said Mawbey.
A large proportion of the checks being made by human operators are based on false positives. This is very expensive with a very small success rate. Today, machine learning and natural language processing not only replaces the manual work, but far exceeds it in terms of capacity. Machines can read many more articles than humans and can automate anti-money laundering processes.


I scrolled through the news on my phone, with one eye still shut from sleep. This is how I begin my daily routine; alarm goes off, responsible fiancé kisses me on the forehead and jumps out of bed to feed the animals, and I lie quietly in denial for a few moments, hoping that the five minute snooze button on my phone will somehow cause me to feel as though I’ve slept an extra two hours.
This morning, like most mornings, was no different in the news department. The main headline on CBC seldom related to happenings in Canada, but rather to whatever shocking statement the president of the country just south of me had proudly spewed from his lips the day before. This morning’s news was just as upsetting as any other, with Trump openly mocking the #Metoo movement at a rally in Montana.
I rubbed my closed eye, managing to open both of them, and let out a sigh as I swung my feet out of bed.
I should have been shocked, given that a world leader had mocked a movement that supported women coming out against years of oppression and sexual assault, but what was most disturbing, was that this had become so everyday; so terrifyingly normal that there was little to say about it.
Since before the 2016 election, the world was well aware of the sexism that Trump so proudly displayed. When the “grab ’em by the pussy” video leaked, many people were sure that a man who displayed such a callous attitude towards respect for women would surely lose the election. The results of that fateful night would prove to be not only disturbing for women, but for anyone who Trump didn’t see as a loyal, white, bow-down-to-me-and-follow-me-blindly-American.
And perhaps this is the biggest problem. In my lifetime, I have never seen the world so divided. Trump supporters will seemingly defend their leader to the death, regardless of whatever sexist, racist statements he makes. As women, we are still fighting for equality; to dismantle the expectations thrust upon us from birth based on our gender, and to be seen for who we are as people and not what our genitals dictate we must be. Yet now, in 2018, looking at a picture of a woman at a Trump rally proudly wearing a shirt that states “Trump can grab my (arrow pointing to her genitals)”, I wonder how equality will ever come to fruition when so many women happily support a man who sees them as nothing more than mindless objects.
That is why, while scrolling through Netflix on a lazy afternoon, I am eternally grateful that I stumbled upon Hannah Gadsby’s stand-up special, “Nanette“. What starts off as comedy turns into something that can only be described as relentlessly empowering. Hannah is raw as she delivers the most honest and compelling monologue I have ever seen, and what began with chuckling out loud, finished with me standing on my feet, eagerly hoping that the delivery of her words wouldn’t come to an end. As she walked off stage to the sound of thunderous applause, I stood there, mystified, and I did the only logical thing I could think of; I watched it again.
Hannah gave me hope. Here was a women who laid everything on the table, some of it deeply personal; and where others may have hid meekly, here was Hannah, shouting from the rooftop. She delivered powerful examples of sexism that still very much exist today; examples that no one could argue were the result of simply “being too sensitive”.
In this world of seemingly voluntary submissiveness, we need people like Hannah. We need people like Hannah to remind us to get angry, to speak up, to not sit there and smile as a world leader excitedly shakes hands with murderous dictators and treats women as though they are nothing more than silent beings, existing only for his pleasure.
I don’t care if you identify as Democrat or Republican. I don’t care if you have one God, ten God’s, or no God’s at all. I don’t care if you live in the United States, Canada, or anywhere else in the world. I care that by blindly supporting the Republican Party, you are in turn, supporting the oppression of an entire sex; and if you don’t think the leader of the U.S.A. and his policies will have an effect on the entire world – then you haven’t done your due diligence.
Hannah, after watching Nanette, I experienced something that I haven’t felt in a long time, the hope that the world will continue forward in the fight for equality, and not plummet backwards in these trying times.
I am quite sure, Hannah, that given the strength and clarity you displayed during your Netflix special, that you do not need us.
But please know that we need you.
We need so many more people like you.


Зрозуміло, що МИ ГОТОВІ ДОПОМОГАТИ СБУ В ЙОГО ВАЖЛИВИХ І СКЛАДНИХ ЗАДАЧАХ на укріплення безпеки Краю і міжнародної.
Саме в Краю переховувалося керівництво банди, яка збиралася поцупити ЧВЕРТЬ МІЛЛІАРДА ДОЛЛАРІВ в американців, британців, звичайних громадян, залізши їм в компютери і спиздивши паролі. Але встигли стирити лише 70 мілліонів долларів, які будуть повернені постаждалим
New details emerged on Friday relating to the Zeus financial cybercrime ring busted last week by authorities.
On Thursday, said the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Security Service of Ukraine (known as the SBU) "detained five individuals who were key subjects responsible for this overarching scheme."
The scheme allegedly involved using the Zeus (aka Zbot) financial malware toolkit to infect PCs with malware, steal people's passwords and banking details, and then their money.
Palo Alto Networks rethinks the firewall to accurately identify and control applications
Revising original estimates that the cybercrime ring netted $3 million, the FBI revealed that the ring attempted to steal $220 million in total, with direct losses to victims' bank accounts totaling $70 million.
"We believe we have disrupted a highly organized criminal network, which has used sophisticated methods to siphon large amounts of cash from many innocent peoples' accounts," according to a statement from deputy chief inspector Terry Wilson of the Metropolitan Police Central e-Crime Unit.
The FBI said its investigation, code-named Operation Trident Breach, "began in May 2009, when FBI agents in Omaha, Nebraska, were alerted to automated clearing house (ACH) batch payments to 46 separate bank accounts throughout the United States."
The operation then expanded to include law enforcement agencies in the United States, United Kingdom, the Netherlands, as well as Ukraine. "During this investigation, the FBI worked closely with our overseas counterparts to identify subjects who were instrumental in the development and control of the malicious software, those who facilitated the use of malware, and those who saw a means to make quick, easy money -- the mules," said the assistant director of the FBI's cyber division, Gordon M. Snow, in a statement.
The so-called "money mules" operated as intermediaries between the Zeus cybercrime ring's masterminds and people's bank accounts. Using stolen credentials, the mules would withdraw cash from within the same country as the banking customer's account, to reduce the chance that the account would be frozen due to suspected fraud.
According to a statement from FBI director Robert S. Mueller III, "no one country, no one company, and no one agency can stop cybercrime." Indeed, cybercrime knows no borders, and furthermore the world lacks any kind of international cybercrime treaty. Accordingly, U.S. law enforcement agencies increasingly must build ties with their counterparts abroad, to successfully investigate and pursue criminals in other jurisdictions who operate online.


You could call them "Northwest soul." You could call them "indie-pop." What it boils down to is that My Brothers and I bring a wide range of influences to their music, creating sounds that are melodic, soulful, and danceable on their debut full-length LP, Don’t Dream Alone. This eleven-track collection is comprised of warm vocal harmonies, luscious grooves, and undeniable melodies.
“We're influenced by pop, hip-hop, the blues, Motown, funk, and soul -- but we wouldn't place ourselves under a single umbrella,” says bassist Erik Wurgler. “This album has soul. We're influenced by modern artists and the classics. Our songs fit into the current musical landscape but with throwback vibes.”
Comprised of brothers David (lead vocals), Erik (bass/vocals), and Scott Wurgler (drums), as well as childhood friends Jordan Roach (guitar) and Johnny Iliyn (keys/vocals), the quintet follows up their debut, digital-only EP, Live Sessions, with Don’t Dream Alone, set for release September 18th on Portland indie label Expunged Records. Recorded at Miracle Lake Studios with Skyler Norwood at the helm (who’s produced Blind Pilot, Priory and Horsefeathers), the album brings the energy that floods their live performance.
“We did record two songs from our live EP — “Nowhere to Run” and “Fly Away” — on this record. But, in the studio you focus on every detail, so those songs really developed into something special on this record,” recalls Wurgler. “Overall, we think a studio recording is always going to be more precise than a live recording. The challenge is to bring and capture the same energy from a live recording in the studio - and Skyler did an amazing job of that.”
Titled Don’t Dream Alone, the album represents the idea of dreaming unselfishly. “People dream for themselves everyday,” comments lead singer David Wurgler, “but when you dream with or for other people amazing things can happen.” Don’t Dream Alone is the dream - and voice - of five individuals, rather than one driving songwriter in the band, working as a true collective to create each song.
“I think the best part of being a band is that you collaborate. This album is a combination of how these songs sounded in all of our heads, so naturally some ideas stayed while others had to be left behind. But we are all absolutely amazed by the final product; it's something we're all very proud of," says Scott Wurgler, drummer and eldest brother.
Driven by the mighty, yet soothing soul voice of David Wurgler, it’s no wonder that when people first listen to My Brothers and I, they’re drawn in by his silky, alluring call. “The vocals and harmonies are the highlights of this record,” states Erik. “Unleashing David in the vocal booth was special. This was David's first time ever recording in a studio. Multiple times he would do something with his voice and we'd look at each other in awe.”
Album highlights include the bright album opener “Dream,” the upbeat love song “Maddy Brown,” the late-night, dark soul of “Na Na Na,” the subtle funk of “Stay Here,” and the sparse and haunting album closer, “Scars.” Singing “Somebody scared of the light, now that’s a tragedy”, the affecting number really drives the album home, leaving you with a feeling of warmth, while opening up your mind and getting you to really think about what you’ve just experienced.
“Being scared of the light could mean a lot of things,” says David Wurgler. “It can represent being scared of change, taking risks, or stepping outside your comfort zone, even if it is for the best. But those are all things we need to do in order to live a purposeful life.”
My Brothers and I have stepped outside their comfort zone with Don’t Dream Alone, pushing themselves to bring out their best, working hard to create an album that will resonate with listeners of multiple genres. This is a record for music fans, by music fans.


The Michigan Farm Bureau Family of Companies is partnering with Talons Out Honor Flight to give Farm Bureau members who are veterans of World War II or the Korean War an opportunity to visit their respective war memorial in Washington D.C. and return to a welcome-home celebration May 9, 2020.
The Family of Companies’ $25,000 pledge will allow for 24 veterans and 24 guardians to attend — two veteran-guardian pairs per district.
“This truly is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our members who’ve served their country overseas in some of the most horrible conflicts of the 20th century,” said MFB President Carl Bednarski. “The Honor Flight is about commemorating them and their service, and our priority is on honoring the most senior of our member-veterans.
“As younger men and women, they were fortunate to survive wars halfway across the globe — then returned home to work the land and help build the greatest agricultural industry the world has ever known.”
All participating veterans must be accompanied by an able-bodied guardian, responsible for physically assisting veterans prior to and during the flights to and from D.C., and during visits to memorials and Arlington National Cemetery — an active, 18-hour day. (See preliminary agenda here.)
Guardians may not be spouses or significant others and must be between 18 to 70 years of age. To make the most of this rare opportunity, county Farm Bureaus are encouraged to find guardians who are also veterans themselves.
If a district has more than two nominees, they will be selected based on the order applications were received. County Farm Bureaus can sponsor additional veterans and guardians at a cost of $500 per person (totaling $1,000 per vet-guardian pair).
Separate application forms for veterans and guardians are under development and will soon be made available to county Farm Bureau offices.
Farm Bureau members who served in WWII or Korea are encouraged to apply directly to their county Farm Bureau. The county Farm Bureau must submit completed applications to [email protected] by 4:30 p.m. Jan. 31.
For more information, contact Nicole Guilford (517-679-5665) or Jeremy C. Nagel (517-323-6585).


I recently wrote a series of health related articles for a company’s blog. Due to issues with the website and lack of funding to get the new company off the ground, these articles have not been published. Although I was paid for the work I did I think it’s a shame for my blog posts not to be published or read by anyone. So here is the second one in the series…
How to improve your sleep and why this is important
Many people struggle to sleep well at some point in their life – whether you find it hard to fall asleep at night or difficult to stay asleep this can severely affect your health. Often people don’t know why they aren’t sleeping well, and even if they do they don’t know how to improve their sleep.
So what are the potential consequences of lack of sleep? Most of us have experienced feeling grumpy and irritable, and difficulty concentrating as a consequence of a poor night’s sleep. With more and more sleepless nights it will become more difficult to concentrate and make decisions. Furthermore you’re putting yourself at risk of injury at home, at work or on the road due to fatigue. Prolonged lack of sleep can also affect your immune system so you’re less able to fend of bugs. Furthermore lack of sleep can leave you prone to serious medical conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, obesity and diabetes. And it’s not just your physical health – chronic sleep debt is also linked to mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.
It is important to address the cause of your insomnia. Several types of drugs may contribute to sleep problems including antidepressants, some asthma drugs, heart drugs and some antibiotics. If you have started taking a new drug and noticed that your sleep is suffering it is worth consulting your doctor to find out if an alternative is available. Although alcohol makes us very sleepy, drinking makes our sleep shallower so you will still feel tired the next day and increase your sleep debt despite having slept for several hours. It is well known that caffeine can be linked to lack of sleep, particularly if you are drinking more than one or two cups of coffee or tea per day, or drinking caffeinated drinks too late on in the day. Asthma can also be linked to insomnia as symptoms often become worse at night, making it difficult to sleep. Mental health issues such as stress, anxiety and depression are also common causes of insomnia. Eating patterns are also important – hunger can keep you awake but simultaneously eating a large meal too close to bedtime can make it difficult to fall asleep.
If you have had difficulty sleeping for a long period of time, it is important to keep sleep debt in mind. That is, once you start sleeping more it will take a while to catch up on lost sleep and see the effects of sleeping well. A regular bedtime routine will help you wind down and prepare for bed, and your body will learn that this routine means it’s time to sleep. Decide what time you need to go to bed based on what time you need to get up (most adults require 7-9 hours of sleep per night). It is important to go to bed at the same time every night if you are trying to combat insomnia. Taking a warm bath, practising light yoga stretches, meditation or reading a book can help you to wind down before bed. Ensure that your bedroom is tidy and at a comfortable temperature.
Ensure that your curtains or blinds aren’t letting in too much light, and invest in some earplugs if noise wakes you up at night. Avoid doing any work in your bedroom as you want your brain to associate this room with sleep and relaxation only. Regular exercise can help people to sleep better; however do not exercise within the last four hours before you go to sleep as this will have the opposite effect. Ensure that you do not drink any caffeinated drinks during the evening or late afternoon, and try to cut down on overall caffeine consumption.
If stress is keeping you awake at night, you may have to tackle this head on. Come up with a plan on how to tackle whatever you are stressed about, so that you can sleep easy. Sleeping pills can help people to sleep more over short period of time, however if taken for long periods they can have the opposite effect, so it may be best to avoid them if possible.


How to interpret the current rise of Eurosceptic opinions and parties? Multiple factors are at play:
- The economic crisis reinforces the effect of inequalities and fuels a widespread crisis of confidence in political institutions and elites, not only at a European level, but also at national levels.
- Purely national factors play a role as well, particularly in the case of the UK whose European commitment has always been minimal and ambiguous.
- However, the rise of Euroscepticism is also linked specifically to the EU. Citizens see it as an institutional body that weakens national democracies and divests them of their power to control decisions. As competences are transferred to the EU level, people are motivated to resist.
The last point raises the question of the democratisation of European institutions. Today citizens are not able to regain at a European level the democratic influence they are losing at a national level.
Citizens’ democratic influence relies on the people’s ability to impose constraining popular mandates on decision makers.
At the Member States level, elections can result in national popular mandates because of a direct link between elections and decisions:
- Political parties, which are structured at the national level, compete to promote national platforms and leaders.
- The leader and political agenda of the executive power reflect the outcome of the election.
However, at European level, there is no European popular mandate:
- The national executives represented in the EU Council are elected on the basis of national mandates. Once they negotiate in Brussels, they enter into a diplomatic logic, seeking compromises that facilitate convergence among Member States but tend to disconnect them from their nation’s citizens. Their national mandate is either diluted in a depoliticised European majority or affirmed but isolated. In both cases, ‘Brussels’ seems to decide against national democracies.
- Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) are directly elected, but on the basis of national campaigns led by national parties on national issues (for or against the national government). Here too the gap between the national nature of the elections and the European nature of the decisions leads to a dilution of popular mandates, as decisions are reached through unholy alliances and back-room deals. MEPs have the choice between defending a European mainstream that is out of touch with its citizens or embodying a purely national popular mandate that condemns them to political irrelevance in Brussels.
- As for the European Commission, it is appointed by governments and the Parliament. Thus, its link with voters is even more indirect, making it appear completely undemocratic.
The main cause of Europe’s democratic crisis is, therefore, citizens’ very indirect influence at a EU level, which prevents the emergence of any European popular mandate and, therefore, of a genuine European democracy.
In order to respond to this crisis, we advance three key proposals for the radical democratisation of the EU:
1) The direct election of the European Commission by the European People;
2) The creation of a European Citizens' Assembly, whose members would be drawn by lot and would have the power to block proposals contrary to the general interest;
3) The establishment of a European referendum on popular initiative, allowing all citizens of the Union to express themselves simultaneously on a legislative issue.


8 June 2018 — 14 July 2018
Rue Isidore Verheyden 2
Albert Baronian is pleased to announce a new exhibition of paintings by
Los Angeles-based artist, Joshua Smith.
While the artist has worked across various media and formats, including painting, photography, and speaking and organizing projects, this show will focus entirely on the signature monochrome paintings which he first began producing in New York in 2009.
Download Press Release


Updated: Nov 29
With over ten years of dedicated service, the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Organic Farm Program has been an innovative way to inspire incarcerated individuals and serve the community.
At its core, the program is all about giving back—thousands of pounds of fresh, organic produce have been distributed to more than 50 community organizations including senior centers, veteran groups, and food pantries.
“The Sheriff’s Office’s Organic Farm is a tremendously positive program,” said Worcester County Sheriff Lew Evangelidis. “The farm allows our office to give back to the communities we work to keep safe every day.”
The 15-acre farm in West Boylston produces roughly 500 pounds of fresh produce daily and approximately 40,000 pounds in a growing season. This program continues to expand, now growing fruit such as cantaloupe. As autumn approaches, the farm is also gearing up to offer pumpkins to the community, with an estimated one to two dump truckloads of pumpkins expected.
This generous outreach extends not only to external organizations but also to the inmate population within the correctional facility. Thousands of pounds of produce have been processed and prepared by the Sheriff’s Office’s kitchen, helping to feed the inmate population.
“I’ve been told repeatedly by recipients that these fresh organic vegetables are like nature’s medicine,” said Sheriff Evangelidis. “In addition to community distributions, we’re fortunate enough to use some of the produce we harvest in our kitchens inside the jail. This allows our culinary team to prepare healthy meals for the inmate populations while also saving our organization and taxpayers tens of thousands of dollars in food costs.”
A fundamental aspect of the organic farm program is the active involvement of the incarcerated individuals. Over the past decade, low-risk offenders residing in the jail’s work release building have been given the opportunity to participate.
“Working on the farm program and knowing that I am able to use my time to give back to the community is truly a gift,” said Justin, an inmate in the Work Release Program at the Worcester House of Correction. “The Farm gives my time incarcerated meaning and purpose, and I am grateful each and every day for the opportunity.”
These individuals typically dedicate 10 to 25 hours a week to various farming activities, including planting, harvesting, and maintenance. In addition to the tangible benefits of cultivating crops, participants earn “good time” credits each month, incentivizing positive behavior and contributing to their rehabilitation.
“The integration of the work release program teaches select incarcerated individuals a structured lifestyle, the importance of constructive community involvement, and the dignity that comes along with a steady job or purpose,” said Sheriff Evangelidis.
The Worcester County Sheriff’s Office organic farm program exemplifies how correctional institutions can positively impact their communities and offer inmates opportunities for personal transformation. As the program continues to grow, it simultaneously cultivates hope and a path toward a brighter future among its participants.


Why the name “Tailfeather Photography?”
Every October my family spends time together in rural South Dakota hunting pheasants. Since 1998 I have followed those hunters through the fields shooting pheasants in my own way, through the lens of my camera. It was during one of those hunts out in the middle of a cornfield that I decided to take my photography down this path: opening a studio and pursuing my passion full-time. I could argue that fate chose this path for me long before that moment; as a senior in high school I convinced the shop teacher to let me pursue photography and darkroom film development during senior shop. I didn’t swing a hammer the entire year, but I did use up a lot of film. High school led to a bachelor’s degree in English, a stint in journalism and now my own studio.
I offer studio and location sessions in and around Northeast South Dakota for families, children, high school seniors and weddings. I also photograph school portraits every fall and many different sports and events throughout the year.
I have been a proud member of the Professional Photographers of America for over ten years and became a Certified Professional Photographer in 2015. I currently serve on the South Dakota Professional Photographers of America affiliate board of directors and am the current secretary.
Give me a call, stop by, send me a message or find me on Facebook – I’d love to hear from you!


I had the immense luck and honour to have my work featured as the main exhibition in “Lucca Comics & Games 2018”, the most important comic book event in Italy and the biggest in Europe for tickets sold. This is one of the most important acknowledgement a comic book artist can achieve in Italy and I still can’t believe it really happened to me.
I had the opportunity to put around 250 pieces on display, ranging from the very first self published comics from 1998 to my latest works. In particular, seeing those tiny bits of paper from my teenage hanging in that museum, the one that hosted some of the greatest artists in the world, really moved me as I perfectly remember the day I did those: back then I definitely wasn’t hoping for such an incredible destination.
The exhibition included a special performance area where I signed the official poster(s) I made for Lucca Comics & Games 2018 using an axidraw cnc plotter. This was very fun as I never saw any of those posters before: they are generative, one of a kind prints, I will soon make a in depth case study about it. Every time I got a poster to sign I was shocked. I was way more excited to sign those poster than the attendees waiting for my signature. I must admit that I was often tempted to keep the best ones for me, but I managed to resist.
Anyway: my weird idea of printing and giving away thousands of illustration I never saw, hundred of unique signatures I made without touching the drawing itself, preserving a full digital to analog pipeline where every single piece is an original, one of a kind piece of art is finally accomplished.
Moreover: my axidraw plotter was connected as an audio feed via piezo electric mics to a monomachine: the mono processed the sound coming from the two axidraw brushless motors generating an eerie and futuristic soundscape for the exhibition in realtime, with no chance of hearing the same sound twice.
The exhibition was curated by Guido Martini and the text was written by Adriano Ercolani.
I’m at a loss for words when it comes to thank the incredible “Lucca Comics & Games” team as they did a tremendous job on setting up my exhibition and making my dreams come true: a unique and perfect mix of world class professional excellence and unrelenting kindness.
From the official webiste:
“Lucca Comics & Games è onorata di ospitare nelle sale del Palazzo Ducale le opere di Lorenzo Ceccotti, in arte LRNZ.
Dal collettivo dei Superamici a “Golem”, da “Astrogamma” a “Monolith”, senza tralasciare illustrazioni, copertine e il poster di Lucca Comics & Games 2018. Dotato di un segno riconoscibile e accattivante, rimarrete stupiti dalla varietà delle opere esposte.
Una vera e propria full immersion all'interno del mondo distopico dell'autore romano.
Luogo: Palazzo Ducale - Lucca
Data: dal 13 ottobre al 4 novembre 2018
Inaugurazione: sabato 13 ottobre
Orari: dal 13 al 29 ottobre, lunedì al venerdì ore 15.00-19.00, sabato e domenica ore 10.00-13.00 e 15.00-19.00 / dal 30 ottobre al 3 novembre, ore 9.00-21.00 / 4 novembre, ore 9.00-19.00”


Best Seats for the Croke Park Classic On Sale 1 December
29th November 2013
The Americans are coming and some of the best seats for the Croke Park Classic are going on sale on 1 December.
The game, which takes place on 30th August next year, will see the University of Central Florida take on Penn State in their first game of the 2014 American college football season. It is set to be an amazing event spectacle in one of Europe’s greatest sporting arenas.
Heading into the final weekend of games state side, the University of Central Florida (UCF) needed just need one win to clinch share of The American Conference title. The Knights have had just one loss this season and continue to rise in the ratings poll ranking #17 going into their final games. This is the highest ranking ever for the UCF Knights at this stage of the season.
The share of the Conference title for the Black and Gold, would qualify the Knights to compete in their first-ever BCS Bowl Game in January. Central Florida continues to do what is needed to win each week, defeating Temple University in Philadelphia on 16 November with a dramatic 4th quarter comeback and near-magical winning touchdown pass and catch from juniors Blake Bortles to J.J. Worton. The acrobatic one-handed grab in the end zone is one of the most amazing ever seen in college football!
Coach O’Leary has his squad playing at its highest level ever. He took over the program ten years ago and has rebuilt it from the ground up. The Knights’ two signature victories of the season were against previously undefeated and #8 ranked Louisville, which followed on the heels of their win in Beaver Stadium in September over the Penn State Nittany Lions. Coach O’Leary has his team headed toward their most outstanding season in history.
UCF and Penn State will open their 2014 campaigns August 30 when they meet in the inaugural Croke Park Classic in Dublin, led by two of the most highly regarded college coaches. George O’Leary and Bill O’Brien have previously worked on the same staff at Georgia Tech.
Coach Bill O’Brien got his Penn State team back on track earlier this month by dominating the Purdue University Boilermakers in front of over 96,000 fans at home in Happy Valley. PSU, playing in the Big 10 Conference currently has a record of 6-5, including their four-overtime cliff hanger win over Michigan in mid-October. Their final game is against Wisconsin on 30 November, as the young squad focuses on finishing strong.
So not only will the 2014 Croke Park Classic feature the O’Leary-O’Brien matchup, but also the on-field passing combinations of Hackenberg to Robinson for Penn State vs Bortles to Worton for Central Florida. It’s shaping up to be a great battle of these two giants of American College Football in Dublin next year. This big season opener will also be the first time that UCF and Penn State have played outside the United States guaranteed to bring huge fanfare and significant travelling support.
For a unique Christmas gift, sports fans can pick up tickets from ticketmaster.ie with prices starting from €20. Check out www.crokeparkclassic.ie and follow the event on twitter @CrokePkClassic and facebook.com/crokeparkclassic for news and updates.
Photo credit: Mark Selders


In a landmark announcement, Roche has revealed that its Ventana PD-L1 (SP263) Assay has received CE IVD approval, setting a new standard in the personalized treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This cutting-edge diagnostic test now stands as a beacon of hope for patients with locally advanced and metastatic NSCLC, identifying those who are eligible for treatment with the groundbreaking immunotherapy, Libtayo (cemiplimab).
Bridging the Gap in Lung Cancer Treatment
Lung cancer remains the most prevalent and lethal cancer worldwide, with NSCLC accounting for up to 85% of all cases. The challenge of treating this disease lies in its late diagnosis, often at a stage where traditional therapies have limited efficacy. However, the advent of immunotherapy has introduced a new horizon of treatment options, necessitating precise diagnostic tools to identify suitable candidates.
The Role of Ventana PD-L1 (SP263) Assay
The Ventana PD-L1 (SP263) Assay is at the forefront of this medical evolution, designed to detect the expression of the PD-L1 protein on tumor and immune cells. The expression level of PD-L1 has been closely linked to the efficacy of PD-1/PD-L1 immunotherapy drugs, making it a critical factor in tailoring treatment plans for individual patients. The assay’s approval is based on the results of the Phase III EMPOWER-Lung 1 study, which underscored the potential of Libtayo monotherapy in improving patient outcomes.
Expanding Treatment Options with “Roche PD-L1”
With this CE mark approval, the Ventana PD-L1 SP263 Assay (Roche PD-L1) is the only CE IVD product in the market with NSCLC indications for four different immunotherapy drugs, thereby broadening the spectrum of treatment options available to oncologists and their patients. This development is a testament to Roche’s commitment to advancing personalized medicine and improving access to life-saving treatments.
Jill German, Head of Pathology Lab at Roche Diagnostics, highlighted the significance of this breakthrough: “With our companion diagnostics, we can ensure each patient receives the most appropriate targeted treatment. This approval not only broadens the treatment landscape for advanced lung cancer patients but also marks a pivotal step in our journey towards personalizing healthcare.”
A Step Towards Personalized Healthcare
The CE mark for the Ventana PD-L1 (SP263) Assay represents more than just a regulatory milestone; it signifies a shift towards a future where cancer treatment is tailored to the individual, maximizing efficacy while minimizing unnecessary exposure to potentially ineffective therapies. As the global medical community continues to make strides in the fight against lung cancer, the role of precise, reliable diagnostics will only become more crucial.
In embracing these advancements, we inch closer to a world where lung cancer, once a formidable foe, becomes a manageable condition, with patients receiving treatments designed for their specific biological makeup. The journey towards personalized healthcare is long and fraught with challenges, but with innovations like the Ventana PD-L1 (SP263) Assay, the path becomes clearer, offering new hope to those battling lung cancer.


By Samuel Dummer
When it comes to the 2021 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, the Russians can call themselves numero uno, Champions, чемпион. However it is written, it means the same thing. It means they won.
This round…well sort of.
While the legitimacy of the win could be questioned as Canada, the tournaments perennial powerhouse team, chose to abstain and follow local health guidelines, the Russians went with their best foot forward, their best snipers locked and loaded.
With the performance of some of the youngsters on the “Red Machine” put forth, there is no telling the damage they could have done to Canada’s assumptively strong team.
As usual, the Russians played a fast and creative hockey game. After steamrolling the Slovakian team in an exhibition game, Russia started their first recorded game against Switzerland dragging their feet. While the beginning of the first period was filled with missed passes and blown tires, the Russian team was able to put their heads down (metaphorically of course) and pull their game back into focus. After dusting off the Swiss team with a 5-2 win, they continued on their path of ice-level domination.
After scoring thirty-five goals in just five games, it’s safe to say that the Russians had no difficulties putting the puck in the net. While their defense could have been better, they were easily able to outscore the opposition. With such high-flying, high-scoring games like these, it is easy to see the excitement building around the young Russian prospects.
They looked heavily to one of the younger players at the tournament and he rose to the occasion with a record-breaking performance. Goaltending remained solid throughout the tournament. The defense limited opportunities and weren’t afraid to grind it out when needed, and the Russians showed why they could’ve been in a class of their own. By the time of the final buzzer, ending the weekend, the Russian team and put on a clinic and become the directors of the Hlinka showcase. They finished their time with nothing more left to show.
From game 1, players such as Matvei Michkov, Ivan Miroshnichenko, and Aleksandr Perevalov were hot names on the Russian roster. They were visibly able to control the play, once settled in, and had the same smooth skating style regularly found in many young Russians. Follow those names with the fortifying presence of goaltender Sergi Ivanov and it’s clear to see that these players came to the tournament with the thoughts of becoming professionals strong in their minds. NHL scouts were watching, and the players demanded their attention.
Matvei Michkov, what left is there to be said about this kid? At only 16, Michkov has taken the hockey world by storm. His 13pts in only 5 games was not only incredible, but also record-breaking. The record was previously held by Canadian Cole Perfetti as he was able to put up 12 pts in 2019-2020. He looked at that stat-line, pulled on his skates, and told his coach to hold his non-alcoholic beer. He had a purpose and a record to break, and he did so as an underaged player at the tournament.
When thinking of ages, the difference between 16- and 17-year-old players may not seem like much. But, to put things in perspective, Michkov stands at 5’10 and 159Lbs whereas a player such as Liam Ohgren of Sweden is 6’1” and 187lbs. That’s a weight difference of almost 30lbs. Now, if you will, imagine being Michkov flying through the neutral zone with the puck on his stick, only to run into the shoulder of that guy. I wouldn’t want to be on the receiving end of that. For some players, that may be enough to keep them from the game. For Michkov, it’s an excuse to keep getting better, even if it is just to avoid being hit.
Michkov has been a point producer everywhere he’s played. At 13 he scored 30 points in only 8 games in the U15’s followed by 35 in 8 games at 14 in the U16’s of the Team Center Tournament. Not to mention his 109pts in 25 games for the Lokomotiv-2004 Yaroslavl U16 team in 2019-2020. It is safe to say, that this kid knows how to score. Whether he was finishing it off himself with his deadly accurate laser beam, or dishing it off to a teammate with his tape-to-tape passes, Michkov proved to be more than most teams can handle. His skating strides seem effortless, his shot is a cannon coming off of his stick, and his hands are silky smooth. His offensive IQ is unquestionable and anyone trying to tag him up on the ice needs to be in constant motion, with their head on a swivel. Michkov has a sneaky habit of finding himself in open space.
Michkov should undoubtedly be picked up by an NHL team first or second overall in 2023. Even with his small stature, his point totals are just too out of this world to pass up. With the likes of Brayden Point and Mitch Marner showing the world that size isn’t everything, Michkov’s chances are higher than ever at being a top prospect.
Ivan Miroshnichenko was the captain of this year’s “Red Machine” Russian team. Miroshnichenko didn’t disappoint. While his 9pts wasn’t quite the record-breaking numbers of his fellow teammate, it was still a scoring pace of almost 2 pts per game.
The Russian team did not take it easy on anybody. They had no issues running up the scoreboards in every game, and Miroshnichenko had no issues being part of the reason why. His killer instinct, to go along with his talent, 6’1” 185Lbs frame, and the ability to work with the skilled players around him, make him a valuable asset to the Russian team. He has worn the “C” or an “A” for his country on more than one occasion, which shows his coach’s strong conviction in his play and leadership.
Speaking with scouts in chat groups today showed that the coaches may just have picked the right guy for the job. “Miroshnichenko is a smart, all-around player who understands the game well and is always in position, both on offense and defense. He had good offensive instincts throughout the tournament and was able to contribute both goals and assists across multiple lines” says scout David Cheung.
The coach’s willingness to move him around the lineup, as well as his ability to produce while playing away from his team’s top goal scorers, should only further show his team-first mentality and focus on the game.
Cheung was extremely impressed by the player, “Every day, every game, he gives 100% effort. He finishes hits, wins icing races, and is willing to sacrifice the body to block shots.”
The young captain is on the right path. With a little more finish in his game, Miroshnichenko can be making teams across the NHL think about how they’re going to fit his long name on the back of their jerseys.
Aleksandr Perevalov “He is a left-winger with unbelievable speed. Able to easily get a breakaway or back off the defenders and create time and space for both himself and his teammates” are the first words I heard about the player from fellow writer and scout Jonah Fleisher. Perevalov’s history seems to back up the claims.
At 6’0 and 185lbs, Perevalov has the frame of an athlete. His fast tempo play shows his desire to have the puck and quickly move it up the ice. Because of this game style, Perevalov has been able to produce throughout his young career. In the 2019-2020 season, Perevalov was able to put up 57pts in only 21 games for his Lokomotiv U16 team. Pervalov followed it up with 11pts in only 6 games the following season. This was more than enough to garner a call-up to the MHL where he was able to put up 6pts over 17 games in his first ride with the Jr team.
Perevalov’s 5pt finish in this tournament put him at a 1 points-per-game (ppg) average. When held up against the high-scoring games of the Russians and the high production of some of his teammates, this may not seem overly impressive. This could be true, but the success of his teammates should not be a knock on his own production. Averaging a point-per-game at the international level is nothing to scoff at. Sometimes, when a team is dominating to such a degree, it can easily be overlooked that they are playing against some of the best players of their age bracket. In the world.
Perevalov may still have a little more to prove but has nonetheless garnered plenty of attention. His dynamic and relentless play will keep the interest of scouts throughout the year. Fleisher made sure to finish, “He also has a tireless motor and is always moving his feet in the offensive zone, looking for places to get open and places to get the puck to shoot from.
Sergei Ivanov the “built-tough” goaltender, is built more like a racing jockey than the goaltenders of today. Ivanov shows that size isn’t everything and plays like a wall across the goal-line. At 5’11” and only 157lbs, Ivanov is small, there is no doubt about that. You may think that his thin frame would leave too much of the net exposed. His small size should lead to getting lit up like Chevy Chase on the cover of “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.” But his stats say otherwise.
In 22 games across the seasons of 2018-2020, Ivanov averaged a save percentage (Sv%) of .967. When bumped up to the Jr. A level of the MHL in Russia, Ivanov’s save percentage was still a more than respectable .921 and a goals-against-average (GAA) of 3.24. All outstanding numbers to be throwing up for a kid of his size. It makes you think of a young Patrick Roy.
Ivanov finished the Hlinka with 3.00 GAA and a Sv% of .911, going 3-0-0 and ultimately winning the cup. As a goalie, he did everything you could have asked of him. He was sharp in his blue paint, used angles to his advantage to limit scoring chances, and had quick reflexes on shots from in tight.
“He was a star from his beginning to end and really solidified the crease” says DraftPro scout Matt Morrison. “He plays a composed game for a small-statured goalie… He has a lightning-quick glove hand and is athletic side-to-side.”
The Russians came to the Hlinka tournament ready for action. It didn’t take long for them to settle into their surroundings and blow the doors off the competition. Without Canada in the picture, there wasn’t much resistance left for the remaining teams to hold them off. There’s not even a guarantee that they could have held back that team and we will never know.
Think what you will about the tournament this year. Put an Asterix on it due to Covid, or because Canada didn’t participate if you like. No matter your feelings of the circumstance, Russia took full advantage and showed what a winning attitude does.
They are a highly talented team who wins, and even turns the knife if they have the opportunity.
Photos: HockeySlovakia & Jan Beneš


Jimmie took over the official iHeartCountry Instagram account to go live and play a few songs for fans. With his acoustic guitar, he performed a cover of Darius Rucker's "Don't Think I Don't Think About It" and his hit song "Make Me Want To," and towards the end of the latter, Allen added a break down while singing Diffie's name. He then talked about meeting Joe for the first time and revealed the valued advice he received from the late star. He recalled:
"Shout out to Joe Diffie's family, and make sure y'all keep them in your prayers. He's a cool dude, man. I remember the first time I met him, I was like, 'You're Joe Diffie!' We opened up for him. He was like, 'Yes I am.' I said, 'Dude, love your music.' And he's super cool, man. He gave me so much advice and just like, 'Look, Jimmy, keep doing what you're doing.' He said, 'It's going to be people that like your music and people that don't. The cool thing is, man,' he said, 'there's somebody out there that needs to hear what you have to say from your point of view.' And, it meant a lot. The last show we played together was in November, we did the Carolina Country Music Cruise. So, cool dude. Love that guy. But, definitely keep his family in your prayers."
Jimmie also talked about Kobe Bryant, and getting to talk to the late basketball legend a few times. Before playing his song "Why Things Happen," Allen said, "I wrote this song with my buddies, Brandon Day, Cary Barlow and Tate Howell. Tate's the bass player in my band — cool dude, great songwriter. We wrote this today after Kobe died. I met him a bunch of times, and we hung out before and had a bunch of conversations, and every time I hung out with Kobe, I left more motivated and inspired. So many people asked me where my motivation comes from and how do you, through different ups and downs in your life, how do you stay motivated? And there's so many people that overcame so much stuff, and for me, Kobe's whole Mamba Mentality thing meant finding the silver lining in every situation. Like even in the midst of all the social distancing and stuff right now — I hate saying that phrase, social distancing, we need to come up with a new word for that by the way — it's finding the silver lining in everything. Like right now, use this as an opportunity to get that family time. And people always ask for, I wish I had more family time. I know a lot of people have different side businesses and different ideas they want to work on — now's the time to do it. So, I wrote this song when you don't quite understand everything that's going on, a song called 'Why Things Happen.'"
Jimmie ended his Instagram Live takeover by performing his song "Best Shot," and shared a touching sentiment of gratitude in this extremely difficult time in the world. He explained:
"All of our healthcare workers cause that are still going to work and treating sick people to try to find a solution to this current situation, thank you. Everyone else out there that's still going to work, you know, the Walmart employees, the Target employees, grocery store employees, thank you guys so much because they're just as important, because that's where we go to get our food and get everything we need for our daily lives. So, everyone out there that's still going to work, thank you so much. Appreciate it."
He added, "If you know any local stores out there, they're having a hard time right now. So, shop local as much as you can."
Photo: Getty Images


One of the great American journalists of World War 2 was Ernie Pyle. He was a down to earth kind of guy, who was more at home living with the troops than with the officers. He was a great fan of the Infantry, and wasn't ashamed to admit his prejudice. He felt that the Infantry had the hardest, dirtiest and most thankless job in all the armed forces. He spent a lot of time in foxholes, in dangerous conditions, hungry, cold and filthy. He took the time to get to know the soldiers, and they loved him for it.
His column mentioned the soldiers he met by name, and gave little snippets of personal information about each man. During the war, mail often was lost or delayed for weeks, and so Ernie's columns were a lifeline for families back home. If they read about their soldier in his column, that meant he was alive and safe, even if they hadn't had a letter for months. His columns didn't white wash the dangers of war, but they somehow managed to reassure people. They made everyone feel that this war, although difficult and dangerous, could be won. It was finite.
Ernie lent an even touch of humor and humanity to all that he wrote about. He was a shrewd observer, and wrote clear and accessible prose. He was a humble man, perhaps to a fault. He wrote constantly about his own fears and lack of courage in the face of danger, while admiring others around him for their bravery. He was always on the lookout for the amusing, strange or humanising story that would bring understanding to the reader. In 1944 he won a Pulitzer for his work, yet I think he probably got more of a thrill from the recognition of the troops.
By 1945, Ernie was worn out. He had been covering the war since the Blitz, with few trips home. Four long years overseas. He wanted to go home. Yet he was persuaded to take a final trip to the Pacific Theatre, to cover the American landings in Okinawa. He didn't feel right about the trip, but he went. It seems quite ironic that his last column, printed posthumously, should have been a tribute to fellow journalist Fred Painton, who had died on Guam. On April 18th 1945, Ernie was killed by a Japanese machine gunner on the island of Ie Shima.
Reading Ernie's columns, and the columns of other wartime journalists, is like reading someones diary. It's a true reflection of the time, written then and there, as it happened. The only frustration is that the columns were censored to remove any sensitive material. Still, if I wanted access to any relevant army column maneuverings, or amphibious assaults, all I have to do is cross reference the date, place and a few other facts and voila! A complete picture. I read the columns for a more intimate glimpse of the time, an idea of what was in the minds of the people who lived through the war. Sometimes, it's a humbling experience. The people who bore the brunt of the war did so with uncommon courage and determination, no matter what side they were on. Sometimes, it's an uncomfortable experience, as I gain knowledge of the prejudices that ran through all societies in the 1940's.
Of all the journalists, I like Ernie the best. He isn't afraid to put his soul down on paper, and to expose his feelings for all to see. In doing this, he reached out and touched the souls of his readers. He had established the truest contract a writer can establish with a reader, the contract of the heart. He deserves to be remembered and read for a very long time. I know I will constantly read and re-read his columns as I work, both as a writer and a historian.


The database contains entries to all film and television works as well as the installations and radio works of Harun Farocki (in German and English) as well as a complete bibliography of his writings (in German).
Catalogue raisonné: Volker Pantenburg in collaboration with Wolfgang Schmidt
Bibliography: Volker Pantenburg in collaboration with Holger Glinka
Editor of the database: Michael Baute and Pascal Maslon
Programming: Erik Stein
Supplements and corrections are always welcome. firstname.lastname@example.org
The creation of the catalogue raisonné and the bibliography was made possible through the support of the Stiftung Kunstfonds. The database was realized within the framework of "Archive außer sich," a project of Arsenal – Institute for Film and Video Art in cooperation with Haus der Kulturen der Welt as part of "The New Alphabet," a HKW project supported by the Federal Government Commissioner for Culture and the Media due to a ruling of the German Bundestag.


Mr. Vusumuzi Mosomi's life took an unexpected turn during his seventh-grade year at Enxiweni Primary School in Tembisa. A playful day turned into a nightmare when he suddenly collapsed while playing with his friends. Rushed to the hospital, he was admitted for an entire week, only to receive a life-altering diagnosis: epilepsy. This vicious form of epilepsy led to frequent hospitalizations, disrupting his education and leaving him uncertain about the future.
As time passed, Mr. Mosomi's condition worsened, impacting both his mobility and speech. Despite various medical interventions, including stays at Weskopies Hospital and the Tswelopele Centre for the frail, there seemed to be no improvement in his condition. It was during this challenging period that Mr. Mosomi's mother learned about the Association for the Physically Disabled (APD) and its services. Determined to find assistance, she reached out to the APD office in Tembisa in March of 2014.
The APD staff promptly responded to their plea for help. The supervisor visited Mr. Mosomi's home for a comprehensive assessment, and it was clear that he needed extensive care. A compassionate caregiver was assigned to assist him, as he was already bedridden at that point. Through two months of dedicated and gentle exercises, bathing, and training, a glimmer of hope emerged. Mr. Mosomi's strength began to return, and with the aid of a caregiver, he could use a walker to move around.
However, just as progress was being made, a setback occurred. Mr. Mosomi fell ill, and his mother rushed him back to Tswelopele for immediate medical attention. After his recovery, they returned home, and once again, APD stepped in to support them. This time, it was in June of 2018. Remarkably, Mr. Mosomi's determination shone through, and his improvement was swift. By the end of October, he could sit up in bed unassisted, and by November, he was walking with the aid of a caregiver.
The ongoing support from APD continues to make a significant impact in Mr. Mosomi's life. His journey of recovery and resilience stands as a testament to the transformative power of the Home-Based Care (HBC) program. Mr. Mosomi's remarkable progress inspires us all, reinforcing the vital role that APD plays in enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities and their families. In the face of adversity, his unwavering resilience has become a beacon of hope for others facing similar challenges.
Join us in celebrating Mr. Vusumuzi Mosomi's indomitable spirit and his remarkable journey toward triumph. Through his story, we are reminded that with compassion, support, and a community that believes in the potential of every individual, the human spirit can overcome even the greatest obstacles.


The National Transport Authority (NTA) has announced that subsidised bus services in the Dublin area are to move to new schedules on a phased basis starting next week.
Revised Monday-Friday timetables for Dublin Bus will come into effect on Monday January 18th, while those for Go-Ahead Ireland will come into effect from Monday 25th January. Under the revised timetables, services will run at approximately 80% of current weekday levels. The operating hours of services will remain as they are currently.
The revised schedules reflect reduced demand levels under the current Covid restrictions and will ensure service continuity and resilience for essential workers and carers who must travel.
Passenger numbers on bus services in the Dublin area are down by almost 80%, compared to the same period in 2020.
NTA and the transport operators are confident that the Level 5 requirement to operate each service at 25% passenger capacity will continue to be met under the new timetables.
With these new schedules the operators will be in a position to ensure the ongoing reliable continuity of services in the context of high national rates of Covid.
Public transport services were first reduced in April 2020, during the first wave of the Covid outbreak and were largely restored to normal levels in June. The new schedules are broadly in line with those of April last.
Full details will be available at company websites in the coming days:
No changes are proposed to Bus Éireann schedules at this time, although the company and the NTA will continue to monitor the situation.
No changes are proposed to schedules for Go-Ahead Ireland commuter services along the Kildare corridor.
No major changes are proposed for Luas, although there will be some reduction in peak services.
No changes are proposed for Local Link services in rural areas.
A revised Iarnród Éireann schedule was announced last week and took effect on Monday.
NTA continues to advise customers that under Level 5 restrictions, people should stay at home where possible and that public transport is for essential workers and essential purposes only.
Passengers are required to wear face coverings at all times.
NTA strongly encourages people to walk or cycle where possible.


sTARTUP DAILY - OCTOBER 29, 2018
“We decided that we could make a difference with Pair, essentially by creating a dating platform where people are able to meet each other in a respectful environment where bad behaviour is not tolerated.”
SBS - THE FEED - OCTOBER 4, 2018
Like Uber, you can rate your date based on the accuracy of their profile and how safe you found them. So, the more polite and respectful you are, the higher your score.
SMARTCOMPANY - OCTOBER 4, 2018
From rating plates to rating dates: Why the founders of Eatability are pouring $2 million into new dating app Pair
The app functions off a feedback and rating system, allowing members to give each other a thumbs up or down based on three areas: behaviour, safety and profile accuracy.
The AGE - OCTOBER 3, 2018
Pair, which launched in the App store last week, is focused on user feedback, verification and a dedicated virtual "matching assistant".
GLOBAL DATING INSIGHTS - OCTOBER 3, 2018
Pair has now been available on the App Store for just over a week and is focused on an authentic user experience. Each new signup verifies themselves with a mobile number and a selfie to limit the possibility of fake profiles.
KISS 106.5 FM SYDNEY - SEPTEMBER 20, 2018
“I like it because it encourages people to treat the other person nicely…. You can then rate them and give them a review,” said Jackie O.
STARTUP SODA - September 19, 2018
The duo behind Eatability, the highly successful website which was the first to allow people to rate Australian restaurants a decade ago, is bringing rating to dating in a bid to tackle online harassment head on. Their dating app, Pair, launched today for iPhone, is designed to bring respect and honesty back to dating.
The Sydney Morning Herald - September 18, 2018
Now, my fantasy app has become a reality, with the release this month of Pair. Billed as a "new dating app for iPhone designed to bring respect and honesty to dating", Pair is the brainchild of husband and wife team Celeste and Hui Ong, founders of Eatability.


Congratulations to all members of the HIM-Interchange (HIM-I) Editorial Subcommittee, led by HIM-I Editor Joanne Fitzgerald, for their outstanding achievement in transitioning HIM-I from its paper-base to an online journal format. Since its creation in 2011 as HIMAA’s professional practice journal, HIM-I has been a valued ‘go-to’ read of HIMAA members because of the quality and relevance of its content. The online HIM-I will now provide you – the members – and HIM-I’s external subscribers with easy and immediate access.
This transition has been a lengthy journey involving countless hours of voluntary work over several years.
An online version of HIM-I was approved by the Editorial Board some years ago. The HIM-I Editorial Subcommittee – a subcommittee of the Editorial Board – manages the full production and publication of HIM-I and has undertaken extensive planning. In the meantime, the HIMAA Board of Directors gave approval for this strategic move and the previous CEO Mark Upton, current CEO Jae Redden, and the team at HIMAA Office – especially HIMAA’s ICT Manager, Pat Verma – have provided invaluable input and support.
HIMAA’s research journal, Health Information Management Journal (HIMJ), has been published in online format for several years and is widely recognised and read internationally. Now that HIM-I, HIMAA’s professional practice journal, is also published online, both of HIMAA’s journals are readily accessible to a dispersed Australian and global health information management readership. The journals are a credit to HIMAA as a leading professional organisation, the member-volunteers who work on them, and the authors who contribute. The journals are exceptional member assets for the entire HIMAA membership.
The HIM-I Editorial Subcommittee comprises the following members. Details include their home state/territory HIMAA Branch.
Joanne Fitzgerald, Independent Hospital Pricing Authority. NSW. (Member of the Editorial Board)
Dr Stella Rowlands, Sunshine Coast Hospital and Health Service. QLD. (Member of the Editorial Board)
Jennie Shepheard, Shepheard Health Management Consultants. VIC. (Member of the Editorial Board)
Chair, HIM-I Editorial Subcommittee:
Maryann Wood, Queensland University of Technology. QLD.
Emma Barker, La Trobe University. (VIC)
Kym Campradt, Lorica Health. (QLD)
Patsy Catterson, Ballarat Health Service. (VIC)
Naomi Johnson, ACHA Hospitals. (SA)
Danica Jong, West Moreton Hospital and Health Service. (QLD)
Carol Loggie, University of Wollongong. (NSW)
Nina Palibrk, Catholic Negotiating Alliance. (QLD)
Julie Price, Australian Institute of Health & Welfare. (TAS)
Dwayne Richards, BreastScreen. (VIC)
Very special thanks to each of them – from all of us as HIMAA members and HIM-Interchange readers!
Dr Kerin Robinson
Editor in Chief, HIM-Interchange
Editor in Chief, HIMJ.