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Oxford World Classics' is a good edition of Hume's writings on religion. As well as the Dialogues, it contains the brief autobiography My Own Life, a chapter of the first Enquiry (Of a Particular Providence) and the Natural History of Religion, which argues that the first religions were polytheistic.
In the Dialogues, which is the central text, there are clearly expressed treatments of three principal arguments for God's existence. The argument from design gets the most space, but the cosmological and ontological arguments, in versions similar to those of Isaac Newton's friend Samuel Clark, are also scrutinised with a sharp and sceptical eye. I read the Dialogues as a philosophy student some thirty years ago and it confirmed my agnosticism. Contrary to some earlier reviewers, I have since worked my way back to a slightly more positive appreciation of the arguments. Hume's view of necessity is based on his theory of impressions and ideas, but it seems to me intuitively absurd to say we can 'conceive' the non-existence of a necessary being, so I have some time for the ontological argument of St Anselm's writings and indeed Hegel's Lectures on the Proofs of the Existence of God. Hume's view of causality is also quite narrow, but these discussions are for another place.
As well as divine existence, which he reckons probable, the Dialogues end with a passage of 'unfeigned sentiments' attributed to the sceptical character Philo. Here Hume addresses the divine attributes (omniscience, omnipotence and benevolence) and says that there is perhaps less analogy between the moral attributes and those of man than between the intellectual ones. To me this was reminiscent of The Book of Job more than the argumentative to and fro of the earlier chapters. One thing missing from this edition are any passages of religious history and psychology from the History of England. In his concluding portrait of Charles I in the The History of the Stuarts, Hume seems to me to be giving his secular view of Christ in a way that would be of interest to Christian readers.
So this is a good edition and will strengthen anyone's intellectual grasp of the arguments for God's existence, particularly if accompanied by some reading in informal logic.
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domain: library


text:
Common name: Hot Water Plant
Synonymous: Trevirana grandiflora
Achimenes grandiflora var. glabrescens
Achimenes grandiflora var. incisa
Achimenes grandiflora var. liebmannii
Achimenes grandiflora var. pubescens
Distribution ans habitat: Achimenes grandiflora is a subtropical rhizomatous perennial flowering plant native to Mexico and Central America, growing in mountainous regions from Chihuahua to Nicaragua.
It is cultivated as an ornamental plant because of its showy purple flowers.
Description: Achimenes grandiflora has hairy, upright, green or red stems 30-45cm (12-18 inch) tall. The leaves are hairy and rough, dark green on the upper surface and pale green or red underside. They are notable large - up to 15cm (6 inch) long and 8cm (3 inch) wide. Flowers appear on short flower stalk from the leaf axile, consist of a narrow tube flaring out into five broad lobes. They are deep reddish purple with a white throat and they can be up to 4cm (1.5 inch) long and 4cm (1.5 inch) wide. Each flower lasts for only a few days, but the flowering season is extensive: from summer to late autumn.
The roots are growing from a number of small rhizomes, each of which sends up a single stem that carries opposite pairs of heart-shaped leaves on short stalks. Achimenes grandiflora normally produces several such stems.
Houseplant care: For bushy growth, regularly pinch out the tips of young side shoots of the Achimenes grandiflora plant. It may also be necessary to provide some support to maintain the upright habit of this plant.
After the flowering season the leaves starts to shrivel. When they dry out, cut off the stems just above the surface of the potting mixture and put the dormant plant aside in its container until the following spring.
Light: An actively growing Achimenes grandiflora does best in bright light but should never be subject to the midday sun. During the long period of dormancy light is not a consideration. Bright light encourage the flowering.
Temperature: During the active growth period, Achimenes grandiflora plants thrive in temperatures ranging from about 15-26C (59-79F).
They tolerate temperatures as low as 13C (55F), but they cannot stand temperatures above 26C (79F). If high heat persists for more than a day or two, bulbs will turn brown and fail to open.
Rhizomes may be stored in any cool spot, but they will not survive frost.
Watering: Correct watering is especially important for the successful blooming of Achimenes grandiflora plants. As soon as the rhizomes start into growth in early spring, begin to water plentifully, as much as necessary to keep the potting mixture thoroughly moist. If the mixture is allowed to dry out even for a short period, the plant is likely to return to dormancy. Increase frequency of watering when plants are in flower, but limit the amounts; never let a flowering Achimenes grandiflora stand in water. After the flowering period, gradually reduce the quality and do not water at all during dormancy.
Avoid wetting the hairy leaf surface when watering the plant. Use warm or slightly hot water, never cold water.
Feeding: During the early weeks for the active growth period use a nitrogen-rich liquid fertiliser to encourage leafy growth. As buds form, change to a fertiliser that contains more phosphate and potash than nitrogen. Apply a one-eighth-straighten dose of fertiliser at every watering until the flowering period has ended.
Potting and repotting: Use an equal-parts mixture of peat moss, coarse sand or a substance such as perlite and vermiculite. To reduce acidity, add three or four table-spoons-fulls of dolomite lime, lime chips or crushed eggshells to four cups of mixture.
In early spring the clumps of newly spouting rhizomes should be carefully shaken out of the previous year's potting mixture and, if desired, separated - they pull apart easily. Single rhizomes will soon form larger root system if placed horizontally about 1cm (0.4 inch) below the surface in a shallow pots of fresh mixture. Plant three or four rhizomes ofAchimenes grandiflora in a 10cm (4 inch) pot. The mixture should not be packet down firmly, as this can cause waterlogging.
Gardening: Achimenes grandiflora, in subtropical regions can be cultivated outdoors. They are generally easy to grow as long as their basic requirements are met.
They have a winter dormancy and overwinter as scaly rhizomes, which should be kept dry until they sprout again in the spring. Some of the species and their hybrids are moderately hardy and can be grown outdoors year-round in zone 8, or even zone 7 with protection.
Stop watering altogether and allow the stems to die back naturally before cutting them back. Allow the rhizomes to dry out completely, then either store them in their pots or in dry peat or sand at a winter temperature of no less than 13C(55F). If stored over winter, plant them outdoor in beds or repot them in spring.
Position: Place Achimenes grandiflora in bright but indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight in the afternoon, but bright light will encourage the bud formation.
Soil: Achimenes grandiflora thrives in fertile well-drained loose soil. Any combination of leafmold, peatmoss, vermiculite and loam will work.
In early spring the clumps of newly spouting rhizomes should be carefully shaken out of the previous year's potting mixture and, if desired, separated - they pull apart easily. Single rhizomes will soon form larger root system if placed horizontally about 1cm (0.4 inch) below the surface in a raised bed or a shallow pots of fresh potting mixture.
Irrigation: To start up Achimenes grandiflora in spring, water or immerse the pot in warm water. Thereafter water sparingly until signs of vigorous growth appear. Keep the soil or potting mixture moist at all times during the flowering season. Drizzle with warm or slightly hot water because cold water does upset the plant. Never over-watered Achimenes grandiflora since excessive moisture in the soil will kill the plant. Instead it appreciates the moisture in the air. Avoid wetting the hairy leaf surface.
Stop watering completely once flowering is finished to allow plants to prepare for winter dormancy.
Fertilising: Give to Achimenes grandiflora a montly liquid fertiliser from bud-formation until the flowers begin to die back.
Propagation: New plants are customarily grown from detached rhizomes, but an Achimenes grandiflora can be propagated from an 8cm (3 inch) tip cutting taken in early summer. A cutting will root easily in the recommended potting mixture if kept at normal room temperature in bright filtered light and watered plentifully.
Problems: Achimenes grandiflora is a trouble free plant if the care.
Give an occasional spray-mist with water to Achimenes grandiflora plants to prevent red spider mite infestation which is favourised by dry air.
Treatment: Spray with a suitable insecticide and raise the humidity by standing the pot on a saucer of moist pebbles.
Uses and display: Achimenes grandiflora can be used as houseplants, greenhouses or outdoor window displays or bedding plants.
As indoor plant, place Achimenes grandiflora on the window ledge or will make a pretty top table plant. Outdoors, these plants will look their best planted in a window box in a shaded position. Never less, Achimenes grandiflora will work planted in beds under a tree shade.
Height: 64cm (25 inch)
Watering in active growth period plentifully
Temperature in rest period min 4C max 13C (-55F)
Temperature in active growth period min 16C max 27C (61-F)
Hardiness zone: 7-8
Begonia propagation f...
Essential Nutrients f...

domain: biology


- Chassis: WP0BA29942S635345
- 36k Miles
- 3.6-Liter Flat-Six
- Six-Speed Manual Transaxle
- Seal Grey Metallic Paint
- Black Leather Upholstery
- Glass Targa Roof Panel
- 18” Carrera II Wheels
- Heated & Power-Adjustable Front Seats
- Porsche Stability Management
- Porsche CDR-220 Stereo
- Bose Sound System
- Cruise Control
- Clean Carfax Report
BaT History (1 entry)
Your daily digest of everything
happening on the site.
BaT Alumni Gathering: WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca During Car Week – REGISTRATION IS FULL
August 20, 2022
BaT Alumni Gathering: September 17 at The Shop Dallas – REGISTRATION IS OPEN
September 17, 2022
BaT Alumni Gathering – Audrain Newport Concours & Motor Week
October 1, 2022
20th Rallylegend 2022 Republic of San Marino, Italy
October 13 - 16, 2022
Targa Florio Classica – Palermo, Italy
October 13 - 16, 2022
This 2002 Porsche 911 Carrera Targa is finished in Seal Grey Metallic over black leather and is powered by a 3.6-liter flat-six paired with a six-speed manual transaxle. Equipment includes a sliding panoramic roof panel, 18” Carrera II wheels, xenon headlights, integrated fog lights, heated power-adjustable seats, a Bose sound system, and automatic climate control. First registered in Texas, it was recently acquired by the selling dealer in Florida and now has 36k miles. This 996 Targa is now offered with the owner’s manual, a clean Carfax report, and a clean Florida title.
The car is finished in Seal Grey Metallic and features a sliding panoramic roof panel, an automatically deploying rear spoiler, xenon headlights, integrated fog lights, and polished exhaust outlets. The selling dealer notes a ding on the fuel filler cap, a blemish on the lower section of the rear bumper, scratches on the right-front fender and left-rear quarter panel, and touched-up stone chips on the hood, front bumper, and left-front fender.
The 18” Carrera II wheels feature color Porsche crest center caps and are mounted with Sumitomo HTR Z5 tires measuring 225/40 up front and 285/30 out back. Braking is handled by cross-drilled rotors at each corner, and this example features Porsche Stability Management (PSM).
The cabin features heated and power-adjustable front seats upholstered in black leather complemented by dark wood and aluminum trim on the shifter and handbrake handle. Features include a Becker Porsche CD stereo, a remote six-disc CD changer, a Bose audio system, automatic climate control, and cruise control.
The leather-wrapped steering wheel frames a 200-mph speedometer, a central tachometer with a 7,200-rpm redline, and gauges for coolant temperature, oil pressure, voltage, and fuel level. The digital odometer indicates 36k miles.
The 3.6-liter flat-six was factory rated at 320 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. The Carfax report shows that an oil change was performed and that the air filter, drive belts, and spark plugs were replaced in January 2022.
Power is sent to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual transaxle.
The Carfax report shows no accidents or other damage and lists registration history in Texas and Florida.


Black Freighter is a dark and sludgy hardcore band from Leipzig/Germany (even though some members now live in Göttingen and Jena). The band was founded in 2008 and played their first show in September of the same year. Their first release was a 12“ split LP with Crowskin from Potsdam on the Berlin based label vendetta records in the late summer of 2009. A two weeks European tour together with Planks followed in the fall of 2009. In early 2010 saw the release of the bands first full length LP, again on vendetta records as well as a lot of touring all over the place.


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Katie Stevenson made her professional operatic debut as an ENO Harewood Artist in the world premiere of Nico Muhly’s Marnie, conducted by Martyn Brabbins.
Currently for ENO: Flosshilde, The Rhinegold.
Previously for ENO: Third Nymph Rusalka, Katie Pinkerton Madam Butterfly, Third Woman/Fury 3 The Mask of Orpheus, Nefertiti Akhnaten, Third Lady The Magic Flute, Marnie
Notable engagements elsewhere: Last season she sang Nefertiti Akhnaten and Third Lady The Magic Flute, and earlier this season Third Woman/Fury 3 The Mask of Orpheus and Kate Pinkerton Madam Butterfly. Elsewhere she debuted the title role of a rare staging of Porpora’s L’Agrippina for Barber Opera, sang Third Lady in Netia Jones’s new production of Die Zauberflöte for Garsington Opera, conducted by Christian Curnyn, and debuted the role of Flosshilde Das Rheingold for Longborough Festival Opera. In concert she made her debut at the Last Night of the Proms in a performance of Vaughan Williams’s Serenade to Music (BBC Symphony Orchestra/ Oramo) which was cast to showcase the UK’s most promising emerging young singers.
Last updated: 31st January 2023

domain: celebrity


Bag Filter Housing
Bag filter system is designed for optimum filtration performance. Its range provides filtration solution for a broad variety of fluid applications in the process industry. They are particularly useful for filtering large volumes of high viscosity liquids. Bag filter is constructed of filter housing, filter bags, internal cage to support bags, positive sealing arrangement, & choice of end connections. The internal support ensures bags will not burst as high differential pressures build up during operation.
- Unfiltered fluid enters the housing and is distributed evenly around the filter bags. Filtration takes place from inside to outside. Solids are collected on the inside of filter bag for easy removal. The filtered fluid then exits through the outlet pipe.
- High flow rates.
- Low pressure drop.
- High dirt holding capacity.
- Positive sealing arrangement to avoid bypassing.
- Suitable for PP Collar, Rigid Ring & Snap Band Bags.
- Quick opening Tri Clovers & Fly nut design.
- Easy to operate & low maintenance.
- Flow rate up to 2000 m3/hr & More.
- Customized design available.
- Large-area, heavy-duty baskets.
- Housings are permanently piped.
- Covers are O’-Ring sealed.
- All housings made from SS 316 L, SS 316 & SS 304 are mirror polished to resist adhesion of dirt and scale.
- Carbon steel housings are sand blasted, epoxy coated & finally painted with two coats of synthetic enamel.
- ASME code stamp available.
- Multiple bag filter / Duplex bag filter / Jacketed bag filter unit designs are available.
- High temperature & High pressure design are available.
- Special options include filter bag hold-down devices, sanitary, Possibilities of different outlet connections.
- higher pressure ratings, extra-length legs, heat jacketing and adapters for holding filter bags & Magnets design bag filter.
|Filter body material||SS304,SS316L|
|Filetr housing dia||Φ167～Φ1000mm|
|Filter housing height||410～1500mm|
|Multiple bag||1～10g Nos|
|Filter sizes(mm)||Bag||Bag sizes(mm)||Filter area(㎡)||In/outlet||Max. Flow rate(T/h)|
|Filter sizes(mm)||Bag Nis||Bag sizes(mm)||Filter area(㎡)||Max. Flow rate(T/h)|
|Edible Oils||Sugar Cyrup|


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Diani Reef Beach Resort & Spa is an award winning beach front resort located along Diani Beach Road, 5 minutes drive from Ukunda airstrip. Holiday makers, family, honeymooners, corporate or leisure travelers can book a stay in the stylishly designed units. Free WiFi is available.
The units have elegant balconies and ceiling to floor windows overlooking the turquoise blue Indian Ocean. Each room is finely polished, equipped with contemporary household facilities and has a private wash closet for a relaxed vacation.
Complimentary breakfast is served daily. Guests can enjoy a variety of international and local cuisines served at the resident eatery. Diani Reef houses 4 multi-cuisine restaurants and 2 well-stocked lounge bars ideal for unwinding after a tedious day.
The resort houses large swimming pools flanked with sun beds for cool respite. Guests can enjoy indoor entertainment including watching movies at the resident cinema, cultural dances, et. al. The resort houses a fitness center and a health club. Children can play at the well equipped kids club. The shopping arcade is a one stop shop stocked with souvenirs and gifts as well as a business center.
Well arranged modern events, banqueting and conference facilities is available at a fee. The resort has a lush compound that accommodates a tennis court and is ideal for team building and out door partying as well as barbecues. Staff can make arrangements for tours, trips or water sports.
City, Airport shuttles, laundry services, car hire as well as baby sitting can be requested at a fee. The guarded residence has an ample parking space. Diani Reef Beach Resort and Spa is a 5-minute drive from Diani Mall, 2 Km drive from Ukunda Airstrip and in close proximity to the Diani Chale Marine Park and Shimba Hills National Reserve.
Maya spa offers a wide spectrum of holistic therapies such as Ayurveda, Thallaso Therapy, Balenotherapy, Aqua or Hydro Treatment, Reflexology, Aroma Therapy, Body & Face Treatments, Skin Care Therapies, Envelopments, Yoga, Aerobics, Meditation as well as Salon services.
The Coral Rock Cafe offers an extensive buffet, which includes several live stations for breakfast and dinner.
Sake Oriental Restaurant specializes in Indian, Chinese and Japanese Teppenyaki cuisine.
The Fins Seafood and Grill serves sizzling fresh fish and meat, as well as light Mediterranean dishes.
A private beach, an outdoor tennis court and the swimming pool can be accessed by guests.
The hotel houses a well equipped Kid's club.
The compound can accommodate team building facilities.
Guests can watch dolphins at the Diani Chale Marine Park, visit Shimba Hills National Park as well as the enjoy boat rides to the Island.
Any shortening of stay after check in will be considered as a cancellation and the balance of the nights will be forfeited as cancellation fee.
Yadda za'a je Otal din
Exit Ukunda airstrip towards Diani Beach, then turn left and drive straight for 2KM towards your destination on the right.

domain: travel


text:
THE COMPANY WILL BE PRESENTING AT ROTH CONFERENCE NEXT WEEK FOR ANYONE INTERESTED
Who doesn’t love a failed, levered SPAC with declining revenue and a misunderstood balance sheet???
JASN is indeed all that but a closer look reveals it is trading at 4x equity/2018E free cash flow and is a much better story than it might initially appear. A new management team has successfully corrected many of the company’s operational problems, strengthened its balance sheet and is now seeking to increase its investor relations efforts to help educate the street on the stock’s undervaluation.
JASN is a Jeff Quinn sponsored SPAC that went public in 2013 at $10, in 2014 closed its acquisition of JASN, and today the stock trades at $2.70.The acquisition didn’t go as planned, investors bailed on the name, Stifel (the only sell side firm) stopped covering, you know the rest of the story...
However, we believe the worst is behind for the stock:
1)A new CEO was hired in 2016 and a new CFO was recently internally promoted.They have done a great job:
a.increasing ebitda and cash flow by consolidating operations, changing/improving management and walking away from unprofitable business;
b.deleveraging the balance sheet by generating cash and opportunistically repurchasing debt;
c.In 2017, reported revenue was down 8%, but EBITDA was up 6% and net debt/adjusted ebitda declined from 6.2x to 5.5x.
2)Investor turnover appears to be largely complete as several relatively large holders of this illiquid stock have sold and some more value oriented investors have established positions.
3)Investor awareness should increase as the company will be presenting at Roth next week and Sidoti later this month.Roth recently initiated coverage.We also expect the company will hire an external IR firm to help get the word out.
4)Insiders own 20+% of the equity so they are incentivized to create shareholder value. Holders include Wynnefield (17%).
JASN is a diversified industrial manufacturing company, producing industrial brushes and buffs, expanded/perforated metal components, motorcycle and turf careseating, and automotive acoustical products. The company operates through four primary business segments: (1) Finishing; (2) Components; (3) Seating; and (4) Acoustics. Finishing primarily operates under the Osborn name, which produces industrial brushes and buffing products for surface preparation, finishing, polishing, and sealing. Components operates as Metalex, which manufactures perforated and expanded metal products used in filters, smart utility meters, and railcars, among others. The Seating segment operates as Milsco, which manufactures seats primarily for motorcycles, turf care vehicles, and powersports. Acoustics operates as Janesville, which produces acoustical fiber insulation products for light vehicle platforms in North America.
a.Revenue is declining (despite ebitda increasing).Revenue decline is from divestitures, walking away from unprofitable business and industry headwinds due to its exposure to rail, auto and motorcycle end markets.
b.Valuation distorted because $50 million liquidation value PIK preferred(0.8x EBITDA) is likely worth much less than liquidation value.
2)Poor performance under prior management.
3)Historically little IR – Hopefully changing as company does conferences and hires IR firm
4)Little sell side coverage – Sitfel bailed but Roth initiated in January
5)High leverage – yes but company is deleveraging and has no near term maturities. $300 million First Lien notes are due 2021 and $90 million Second Liens are due 2022.JASN is in compliance with its debt covenants.
6)Faces some industry headwinds with exposure to rail, auto and motorcycle markets.
7)It is an illiquid, sub $100 million market cap stock trading at $2 per share
The below is pro forma for the late January swap of $12 million of liquidation value preferred for 1.4 million common shares.
Shares Outstanding27.3 (includes 1.4 million shares issued for Preferred)
Short Term debt10
Long Term Debt400
Conv. PIK Preferred38( likely worth much less)
We valued the stock based on midpoint of their guidance assuming both the preferred is worth its liquidation value (which is probably far too conservative) and also assuming the preferred is worthless.
Pref worth 100% Pref worth zero
EV/ 2018E Revenue0.8x0.7x
Ev/ 2018E EBITDA7.0x6.4x
Eq/2018E Adj Free cash flow nm4.0x
On March 1, 2018 the company gave guidance for 2018, (after beating their guidance for 2017)
Free Cash Flow1317
Net Debt/ Adj Ebitda5.3x4.9x
For 2017 revenue was $650 mm and Adj Ebitda was $68 mm.
However, we believe the Free cash flow guidance is deceiving as it includes $4 million of cash restructuring charges ,
Midpoint of the free cash flow guidance is calculated:
6Working capital improvement
(4)Cash Restructuring Charge
16Free Cash Flow (after restructuring charge)
The free cash flow figure we are using is $20 million because we add back the $4 million of restructuring charges.The figure assumes no preferred dividend (as its PIK and of questionable value) and the working capital improvement.Some may wish to calculate the free cash flow differently and you have figures necessary to do so.
PIK Preferred Stock
Pro forma the January exchange, JASN still has $38 million of 8% Convertible Perpetual Preferred stock, although we argue its worth far less than book value.As discussed below, in this exchange some preferred investors swapped their common for ~25% of liquidation value.The preferred is convertible (in most cases) at $12 per share (4x the current stock price) and JASN can pay interest in additional shares of preferred (essentially JASN is paying interest by selling stock at $12)
If there is a change of control, the conversion price drops to approximately $7 per share, still a huge premium to the current stock price.
On Jan 23, 2018 JASN swapped 1.4 million common shares (fair market value of $3.4 million) for $12 million liquidation value of the preferred.Thus the company bought back the preferred at 28% of liquidation value.Its unclear if JASN thinks the preferred is really even worth 28c on the dollar, but they think that since many investors value the company on an enterprise value basis it was a good investment to reduce the amount of outstanding preferred.
I do not hold a position with the issuer such as employment, directorship, or consultancy. I and/or others I advise hold a material investment in the issuer's securities.
Increased IR (roth and sidoti conferences this month), increased investor awareness of the name.

domain: finance


Waiting List Registration
This training will describe how a comprehensive threat assessment program can help to prevent mass shootings, school shootings, workplace violence, and other forms of targeted violence that impact communities across the United States. All content is based on the operational research conducted by the Secret Service’s National Threat Assessment Center (NTAC). The presentation will demonstrate how the methodology used by the Secret Service can be adapted to prevent violence in the community, by proactively identifying, assessing, and managing individuals exhibiting concerning or threatening behavior.
This is NOT training on active shooter response.


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I know that the 4th of July has come and gone, but I love to keep it patriotic all summer or year long. This banner could be made with any of your favorite colors or holiday themes. I just happen to love the Red, White & Blue theme. I love the American pride that this tie banner shows when I hang it on my entertainment center. I am definitely a newbie when it comes to sewing. I am not a pro in anyway, but fabric I do love. This no-sew fabric craft is a great project for any crafters out there. No matter what your level of skills. I love using fabric in no sew projects and this Fat Quarter Tie Banner is just that…a no-sew project! You can use a variety of fabrics. The more the merrier I say.
- JadeSucksAtLife favorited Red, White & Blue Fat Quarter Tie Banner 01 Mar 14:32
- Crafterella featured Red, White & Blue Fat Quarter Tie Banner 14 Aug 23:00
- Ashley A. favorited Red, White & Blue Fat Quarter Tie Banner 14 Aug 01:15
- Charlene Asay published her project Red, White & Blue Fat Quarter Tie Banner 07 Aug 09:00
Begin by unfolding all the fat quarters and fold them hot dog style. Then cut one cut about 1 inch wide until you have cut all the fat quarter into strips. Then cut 16-17 strips of burlap material. They need to be 1 inch wide as well. Now it’s a simple finish. Tie the fabric on the length of the twine. I did my arms length of twine. Tie the fabrics closely together. Make a pattern with all of the different fabrics you have and follow that pattern until the end of the twine. Be sure to leave a little bit of twine at each end to use to hang it up with.

domain: hobby


Regular carpet cleaning is essential to preserve your carpet’s quality and eliminate all the dirt from the fabric. Maintenance of your carpet is a way of saving money as carpet replacement; even though it is more affordable than wood, could cost a lot of money.
Benefits of Regular Carpet Cleaning. There are several benefits of regular carpet cleaning. It prevents the formation of fungal elements, e.g., molds. Also, the soft fabric and materials of the carpet are an excellent breeding site for mildew, and similar particles attracting the formation of molds that can cause infections and skin allergies. Proper carpet cleaning hinders fungal contamination as eco-friendly chemicals in cleaning products efficiently eliminate unwanted substances.
Other benefits of carpet cleaning are related to aesthetics. You can maintain your carpet’s appearance with regular cleaning. Sand, dirt, and other particles add up to the general wear and tear of the carpet. Constant accumulation of dirt with everyday use of the carpet can cause discoloration and damage. That’s why regular cleaning is crucial as it can freshen up the fabric of the carpet, making it look neat and aesthetically pleasing.


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The American Pamphlet: Twitter for The Founding Fathers
For better or for worse, social media has allowed us to share any political thought or opinion with the entire world instantaneously.
Disagree with a senator’s vote? Tweet at him. Hate an old friend’s opinion on a controversial issue? Express your disdain in a reply and wait for the outrage to ensue.
This virtual, often uncivil, discourse has been viewed as a relatively new phenomenon that has changed “business as usual” for political commentary.
Many have opined that, removed from face to face interaction and nestled safely behind one’s keyboard, people are now free to say whatever comes to their mind, however incendiary it may be.
If we’re talking about the speed in which information is shared, there is no denying that Twitter is a modern wonder. But perhaps we give ourselves too much credit when it comes to lauding social media as a revolutionary medium of public dialogue.
Long before the first tweet was sent, American colonists had their own methods of not just sharing their political opinions, but also engaging in heated, uninhibited philosophical arguments … nestled safely behind one’s own pen.
The American Pamphleteers
Before the internet could have ever been imagined, the early Americans spread political news and opinions in small booklets that were reprinted and distributed throughout the colonies.
These pamphlets, which often sparked controversy and debate among readers, played an integral role in the founding and framing of our country.
We forget that there wasn’t a general consensus among the colonists when it came to supporting American independence from Britain.
There were loyalists, colonists who feared what a war may mean for them and their loved ones, and countless others who did not support a break from King George. Convincing the skeptics meant winning over the hearts and minds and steering them towards liberty.
Thomas Paine, a pamphlet legend, is credited for turning the tide in colonial sentiment towards independence with his 1775 booklet, The American Crisis, which drove home the dire need for separation.
“These are the times that try men’s souls,” wrote Paine.
“The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of their country; but he that stands it now, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman. Tyranny, like Hell, is not easily conquered; yet we have this consolation with us, that the harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph,”
These powerful words, now immortalized, helped turn the tides in colonial sentiment and rallied the people towards revolution.
This pamphlet was then followed up with his equally genius Common Sense.
Even without the speed of information we enjoy today, pamphlets were quickly printed and spread like wildfire, stoking the flames of liberty when it seemed the spark might go out. One might say that Paine’s pamphlets were the first viral “tweets.”
But the pamphlet’s influence on American politics would not end with the victory in the Revolutionary War.
The Federalists vs. The Anti Federalists
Passionate debates and disagreements filled the air as America’s framers met to determine the fate of America’s new government.
While there were varying opinions across the political spectrum, the two loudest voices were those of the Federalists and the Anti-Federalists. The former believed in a strong central government while the latter believed that this would give the government far too much power, threatening individual liberty.
As the debate raged on, dueling pamphlet series began to spread.
Under the pen name, “Publius,” James Madison, John Jay, and Alexander Hamilton wrote 85 essays rallying support for the Federalists in their pamphlets aptly named The Federalist Papers.
For those who weren’t in the room where these political discussions were taking place, these essays gave them insight into what was going on and what types of government were being considered. You might say it was a form of “live tweeting” of the Constitutional Convention.
The Federalist’s views did not go unchallenged.
In what may be the most heated vintage “Twitter battle” of all time, the “Anti-Feds” hit back with their pamphlet series the Anti-Federalist Papers.
Under the pseudonyms, “Cato”, “Brutus,” “Centinel”, and “Federalist Farmer,” the authors, who were speculated to be George Clinton, Melancton Smith, Robert Yates, John WIlliams, Samuel Bryan, Richard Henry Lee, and Mercy Otis Warren, challenged the Federalists and offered their own alternative opinions favoring a limited and decentralized federal government.
This back and forth was widely read by Americans as each tried to form their own opinions on the future of our government. And both helped shape what would become our Constitutional Republic.
The First Canceled Man
Twitter has become ground zero of cancel culture, and the American pamphlet wasn’t devoid of its own juicy cancellation story.
Alexander Hamilton had ambitious presidential aspirations. But after he was extorted by a woman with whom he had been having a torrid affair, he authored a pamphlet that, for all intents and purposes, resulted in his cancellation and spoiled any hopes of a presidential run.
In what would be known as The Reynolds Pamphlet, Hamilton sought to set the story straight. In the pamphlet, he admitted wrongdoing while also explaining that the Reynolds—the woman he was having an affair with and her husband—had been blackmailing him in exchange for keeping the story private.
Fearing the truth would soon come out, he outed himself in the booklet.
Everyone, including his own wife, found out about his infidelity by reading the document, which resulted in his widespread “cancellation,” destroying any hope of holding political office.
The Legacy of the Pamphlet
Whether it be a tweet or a pamphlet, Americans have always craved debate and discourse when it comes to matters of a political nature. They want their views known, shared, and supported by the masses, and the written–or typed–word is their medium of choice.
But nothing about this is exclusive to the modern world. And when it comes to social media, all we really did was reinvent the wheel.
Today, the art of the American pamphlet may be lost to history. But its remnants are so clearly seen in the “modern town square,” we call Twitter.

domain: politics


text:
Peakboy reveals BTS singer V, Park Seo-joon, Choi Woo-shik and Park Hyung-sik's reactions to Gyopo Hairstyle - Exclusive
Peakboy recently treated Wooga Squad fans with an unusual music video of Gyopo Hairstyle. The song, which was released in July, featured four of his closest friends--BTS singer V, Park Seo-joon, Choi Woo-shik and Park Hyung-sik--in never-seen-before avatars. While fans have showered the video with love, Peakboy revealed that his friends were also supportive to the idea of the music video.
“When I first let my friends listen to the music, everyone liked it so much, so they gladly agreed to appear in the music video. After the music video was released, they gave positive feedback saying that they enjoyed it very much,” he said, speaking with Hindustan Times.
In the video, Choi Woo-shik plays the role of a photographer while Park Hyung-sik doubles up as a customer of a food outlet that Peakboy's working at. Park Seo-joon essays the role of a production manager of a talk show, BTS singer V suits up to play a stylish server.
The song, Peakboy said, was inspired by his own hairstyle. However, the concept of the music video was suggested by the music video director. “It was the idea that the music video director first suggested during a meeting, and since then, many of the characters in the music video have been created through meetings," he said.
Although the video was bright and colourful, Peakboy revealed that the weather was playing a spoil sport. “On the first day of filming the music video, the weather wasn't very good. I had to shoot outdoors, but it suddenly rained. But as soon as we started filming, the rain stopped right away, but when the filming was over, it rained heavily again. Everyone said that the weather seemed to help, and the filming ended happily,” he said.
Ask him what inspired him to create the song in the first place, Peakboy said, “Gyopo Hairstyle was a hairstyle that I always wanted to do, and when I looked in the mirror after doing that hairstyle, I liked my appearance so much that I got inspired to make it.”
“I think the best inspiration for me comes from myself. As I work, I go through a lot of trial and error, and in the end, the topic that comes up at the end is nothing special, but it’s all related to me. Gyopo Hairstyle is also a song that came up while changing the hairstyle, which is deeply related to my daily life,” he added.


Oh no! No more Donald Trump for cartoonists to feed off of! What will I draw now? Oh, the creative drought to come! Oh, the financial ruin! Hogwash.
People didn’t just start asking me, “What ya’ gonna draw without Trump around?” after the election. I was getting asked that back in 2017. Hell, when we all thought Hillary Clinton was going to win, people were asking me that in 2016. What am I going to do? I’m going to draw what the news gives me.
I can’t speak for other cartoonists, but I’m going to be OK. Hey, if all the pro-MAGAt cartoonists can get through the past four years, then the cartoonists who aren’t mindless sycophantic hacks can survive the Biden presidency. I’ve been doing this for a long time. My career started in 1990 when George H. W. Bush was president. I drew cartoons before there was Donald Trump. I’ll continue without Donald Trump.
It’s been noted many times that when cartoonists are doing well, then the country isn’t. Every cartoonists has days when they struggle, not just for an idea…but for a subject. There are slow news days. But I can honestly tell you that since Donald Trump began his presidential campaign in 2015, there has not been one day when I didn’t have a subject. Sure, there were days where I struggled for the right idea…but if anything, I usually had too many subjects. Stuff was constantly being pushed aside.
Over the past two years (a little less really), I’ve drawn over 1,000 roughs. I didn’t draw 1,000 published cartoons in that time frame. That should give you an idea of how much stuff I had to push aside. I still don’t think I drew enough cartoons about the pee-pee tape.
One thing people assume during the Trump era is that cartoonists were making bank. Honestly, no. It’s not like a bunch of newspapers were clamoring for more Donald Trump cartoons. I never had an editor call me and say he didn’t have enough Donald Trump cartoons. In fact, Donald Trump was bad for business. I had editors come out and tell me straight that they couldn’t run any…ANY cartoons that criticized Donald Trump.
Before Donald Trump came along, the newspaper business was suffering. Hell, I was laid off from my last newspaper job in 2012. Before Donald Trump came along, newspapers were already afraid of theirs readers. They were tip-toeing around them like crazy, afraid to publish anything that might offend even one reader in the slightest manner. One time when I worked at The Free Lance-Star, editors almost killed our caption contest because one, just one, reader got upset over one of the cartoons…before there was even a caption. It was just a drawing of Sarah Palin and one of her daughters..without any words. After Trump came, papers were afraid of a lot more than just losing subscribers because of anti-Trump cartoons. It’s really hard to convince an editor to carry a cartoon he thinks might get him killed.
I got an email from a friend yesterday, who is editor of a newspaper group in blood-red Indiana, home of Mike Pence. He told me their three daily newspapers lost over 100 subscribers since the attack on the Capitol. Why? Because they ran a front page story on the attack on the Capitol. I believe the word “insurrection” was in the headline. They lost readers for reporting the news.
As some editors were telling me they couldn’t carry anti-Trump cartoons, I had editors of small weeklies, who supported Trump, reply with hostility to my pitches. Ever been called “libtard” by a newspaper editor? I have. And also, I never figured out how anyone in the information business could support a man so opposed to information. I never figured out how newspaper people could support a man who called them the “enemy of the American people.” And then there are the editors who told me they couldn’t run any cartoons on Trump. No pro, no con…any. They felt Trump was just too toxic.
I picked up a lot of clients over the past four years…and I lost a bunch too. Much of it has to do with the state of the industry and a lot has to do with Donald Trump. I actually had an editor suggest I draw cartoons about Trump that were pro and con, as if I had no integrity or that I’m in the cartoon business to make money. I’m trying to survive but nobody goes into the cartoon business to make money. Not anymore. And who draws a cartoon expressing an opinion they don’t believe in? And how would anyone have credibility after that? Actually, I do know a couple cartoonists who tried that. Do they have credibility? Nope. Do they suck? Yup.
As for writing cartoons about Trump, now I’ll have to actually write cartoons again. At least, that’s the impression a lot of readers have who believe Trump wrote my material for me. I do know that it’s hard to satirize satire. It’s hard to make a clown look more like a clown. Come to think of it, I’m probably the only cartoonist who got through the Trump years without drawing a clown car.
And a lot of readers thanked me for helping them get through the Trump era. If you’re one of those, thank you. You gave me something I always wanted which was readers anticipating my next cartoon. Thanks for making me feel special.
But, it’s not over. My job wasn’t done when Trump stepped onto Air Force One for the last time this morning. Just like the people scrubbing the White House clean today, we have a disgusting job in front of us.
Donald Trump fucked up a lot of shit. There’s a lot of work to do. There’s a lot to repair behind Donald Trump. The economy is trashed. Over 400,000 people are dead from COVID. The vaccine rollout has been a disaster. Our nation’s reputation is in tatters. If only someone warned us that installing a corrupt narcissistic man-child racist with the IQ of a shoe horn was going to be bad for the country.
There are still over 150 representatives in Congress who objected to a democratic election. There are Qanon believers in the House. Traitors like Ted Cruz and Josh Hawley are still in the Senate. There are still terrorists running around believing the lies Trump told them. White nationalists and other assorted racists are more emboldened today thanks to Donald Trump. We still have Proud Boys, Oath Keepers, and Qanon. We still have fucknuts. We still have tiki-torch Nazis that Donald Trump defended.
Also, there are reports Eric Trump’s wife wants to run for Congress from North Carolina where she doesn’t live. Ivanka may run against Marco Rubio for his Florida senate senate seat (don’t make me move to Florida, fuckers!). Ivanka and Don Jr are going to fight over the Trump base of idiots. And…Donald Trump isn’t going to go away. He’ll probably resume rallies next week. He may still build a Trump Tower in Moscow. Maybe he’ll create his own cable “news” network. He may even run for president again.
And, there’s the Senate trial over Trump’s impeachment. There are civil and criminal charges coming Trump’s way. I haven’t gone after all the goons he pardoned yesterday. How much did Lil’ Wayne pay for that pardon? Did Trump secretly pardon himself?
And, do you think Donald Trump is going to stop being corrupt or engaging in fuckery now that he’s no longer in the White House? Do you think he’s going to stop being a baby? Do you think he’s going to stop being bitter? Do you think he’s going to stop staying racist and stupid shit? There will probably be another divorce and marriage I’ll have to cover.
Finally, Donald Trump is talking about creating a new political party which will be called the Patriot Party.
I’m not done. Stay tooned.
Signed prints: The signed prints are just $40.00 each. Every cartoon on this site is available. You can pay through PayPal. If you don’t like PayPal, you can snail mail it to Clay Jones, P.O. Box 9103, Fredericksburg, VA 22403. I can mail the prints directly to you or if you’re purchasing as a gift, directly to the person you’re gifting.
Notes on my book, Tales From The Trumpster Fire: I have an order of 20 copies of my book (11 are left to purchase) on the way, which I’m selling for $45.00 each, signed. The books won’t arrive until after the new year, but orders are being taken and they’ll be shipped as soon as I receive them. Also, I have copies of my first book from 1997, Knee-Deep in Mississippi available for $20.00.
Tip Jar: if you want to support the cartoonist, please send a donation through PayPal to firstname.lastname@example.org. You can also snail it to P.O. Box 9103, Fredericksburg, VA 22403.
Watch me draw:


text: Ahirah and Rosanna (Hall) Clifford, are natives of North Carolina. Ahrirah was born July 15, 1811, and Rosanna Aug. 12, 1816. They remained in their native state until the spring of 1866, when they removed to Cannon county, Tenn., where they lived until the fall of 1868. From there they removed to Caldwell county, Ky., only remaining there a short time, when in 1869 they came with their family to Greene county, Ill., locating near Wilmington, where they lived about three years. Their next move was to Crawford county, Kan., where they staid three years, then moved to Montgomery county in the same state, remaining there six months, and then returned to Illinois, locating in Jersey county, where they bought a small tract of land, and farmed there until 1882, when they moved to New Providence, bought property there and have since made it their home. He was married Feb. 5, 1835, to Rosanna Hall, daughter of Moses and Lydia (Hunter) Hall. By this union there were eight children, seven of whom are living - Lydia S., wife of John Henkle, living in Kansas; Samantha M., wife of Zadoc L. Gaither, residing in Jersey county; John H. married Mary Hayes, resides in New Providence; Rachel Emeline, wife of Milton Williams, resides in Jersey county; William M., married Susan Ogle, and resides in New Providence; James W. and Joseph G., remaining at home with their parents; Elizabeth J., departed this life April 24, 1845. Mr. and Mrs. Clifford are members of the United Baptist Chnurch, together with their entire family of children, and also some of their grandchildren.

domain: geography


I remember when Toronto bid on the 2008 Olympics.....the premier, the prime minister and the Mayor gathered for a press conference telling us (and the world) that they were joinly, and co-operatively, funding 3 large infrastructure projects that would be ready for the Olympics and would go ahead whether we won the bid or not (clearly, for them to say that they were aware of the lack of credibility infrastructure announcements in Canada have)......so, since those games we did not win have passed, where are those projects? I only, honestly, remember two of them. The additional subway platform at Union is, I guess, going ahead but not sure how progressed it is and it certainly wasn't ready for the 2008 games and all that remains of the Front Street extension is a graffiti covered billboard telling us that it is happening. So, since that guaranteed to go ahead project was cancelled, what happened to the money that they "put in the bank" that day for that project?
I am sure there are examples of this across the country but I can't imagine it is worse than it is in southern Ontario/GTA.


text:
This quarter section near Hill City, KS, has prime habitat for deer, turkey, and upland birds while also generating income from a CRP contract and grazing of livestock. With over 33 acres of CRP and 122 acres of native grassland and trees, this farm can generate a reasonable return while also providing great memories. Whitetail and mule deer are prevalent in this area of the county, Rio Grande turkey populations are exceptional, and upland bird numbers are at a recent high. The 10-acre area of mature trees provides excellent shelter for deer and quail while also having tall enough trees to provide perfect roosts for turkeys. Tall CRP grass throughout the property is home to pheasants and quail. If you’re an outdoorsman, this property should certainly keep you busy throughout each hunting season.
Contact listing agents Adam Hann or Mitch Keeley for more details on this great recreational and investment farm in NW Kansas!
6 miles SW of Hill City, KS
2 miles West of HWY 283
Legal Description: NE/4 of Section 16-9-23 in Graham County, KS
33.20 acres of CRP enrolled through September 30, 2025. Annual payment of $1,304
10 +/- acre area of mature trees along the north side. Holds several deer during the fall. Great setup for archery hunting
Excellent range of topography throughout the property
Tall, thick CRP provides excellent bedding for deer
Quail populations are flourishing in this area and this property has excellent quail and pheasant habitat
Cropland acres on neighboring farms hold and attract several deer to the area
Approximately 123 acres of good grassland for grazing your own livestock or renting to local rancher
Hill City, KS has all of the basic living essentials including lodging, dining, groceries, gas, RV park, farm stores, etc.
The information contained herein is deemed reliable but is not warranted or guaranteed by the Broker, its Agents, or the Seller. Access to property, access to utilities, or any measurements including but not limited to, acreage, square footage, frontage, and mapping boundary lines shared herein has not been independently verified and is for purposes of marketing only. If exact measurements, access to property, or access to utilities is a concern, the property should be independently measured or investigated by the prospective buyer.
Buyer’s agents must be identified on the first contact with Broker/Agents and must accompany the buyer on showings to receive full fee participation. Otherwise, the fee participation will be at the sole discretion of the Broker and Whitetail Properties Real Estate, LLC.


text:
While the state is still a major polluter, Ohio’s shift away from coal has led to a significant reduction in carbon emissions.
Valerie Brader, whom Snyder appointed to lead the Michigan Agency for Energy when it was created in 2015, has been at the forefront of Michigan energy issues.
The Trump administration’s shifts in energy and environmental policy likely won’t change the downward trajectory of America’s coal sector, industry experts reported at a panel in Cleveland this week.
Plans to build natural gas plants to replace coal-fired generation in Michigan are facing scrutiny from advocates looking to ensure renewable energy and energy efficiency are also being considered. The Michigan Public Service Commission is considering a request by the Upper Michigan Energy Resources Corp. (UMERC) to build two gas plants totaling 183 megawatts in the Upper Peninsula to replace a 62-year-old coal plant in Marquette. Meanwhile, earlier this month DTE Energy announced plans to build a $989 million, 1,100-MW natural gas-powered combined cycle plant in southeast Michigan near Detroit. While the projects are in different stages of development and are on a vastly different scale, clean energy advocates say there are similarities in determining what comprises Michigan’s future energy mix and how reliant the state will be on natural gas as aging power plants are retired.
Ohio’s Rover Pipeline project faces continuing problems, with more spills of drilling mud, ongoing questions about diesel fuel contamination, and orders issued last week by both the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.
Ohio has the most underground natural gas storage wells of any state and the highest number of those which might be vulnerable to leaks, according to a new study by researchers at Harvard University and Boston Children’s Hospital.
Releases of more than two million gallons of drilling mud triggered federal and state agency actions against the developer of Ohio’s Rover Pipeline this month, and advocates suggest those incidents may be part of a bigger problem in the rush to develop Ohio’s shale oil and gas.
Michigan officials are considering the need for a longer-term funding solution for the state’s oil and gas regulatory program as the recent drop in oil and gas prices have increasingly shifted oversight costs from the industry onto taxpayers.
A former coal plant in Joliet, Illinois is an example of the type of facility that can successfully be converted to natural gas. Not all plants are as ideal.
Two of the leading voices in the debate over legislation involving a proposed natural gas plant northwest of Minneapolis no longer actively oppose the bill.

domain: news


text:
DELLY Ranx believes love should be celebrated all year round, instead of just on Valentine's Day, as this would assist in reducing domestic violence in the homes.
“It is a fact that domestic disputes between lovers have contributed to the number of homicides in Jamaica. Where there is no love the gates are wide open for disputes. And, this often leads to not only a break up in family life, but sometimes death,” he said.
In Jamaica, a 2016 Women's Survey showed one in four women has reported experiencing physical or sexual violence in their lifetime. However, according to the National Resource Centre on Domestic Violence, Valentine's Day is actually one of three days where there is actually a slight decrease in reports of domestic violence.
“While Valentine's Day seems to bring partners closer to each other, the love and care expressed on that day should be replicated all year round. The extravagant spending and pampering is all good, but what is of greater importance is what happens for the rest of the year,” he said.
Valentine's Day is celebrated February 14 annually. The day has been connected to romantic love, custom of sending cards, flowers, and chocolates.
Delly Ranx is preparing for a show in the west African country of The Gambia this summer.
“Gambia has always showed me nuff love, and I love them in return... Love is a two-way street,” he said.
Delly Ranx, given name Delroy Foster, is from the Southside community in Kingston. His break in music came in 1992 with Never Done. Other song include Headache and Nuh More Than You.
As a producer, he is responsible for Sean Paul's Ganja Breed ft Chico which appears on Sean Paul's Grammy-winning Dutty Rock album, Popcaan's Family, and Mavado's Weh Dem A Do.


We are all familiar with the salmon’s journey. From the ocean, it enters rivers and makes a miraculous journey upstream to spawn and then die. In the Caribbean, there are many animals that find a life between the land and sea, and a home in fresh and salty waters.
On St. Martin, one is never far from the sea. Most obviously, we find it at the edge of every beach and at the bottom of each seaside cliff. But the sea also has ways of invading the island itself.
The sea seeps into the land through the porous limestone, adding its salty essence to well water. It washes upstream in the few spots where fresh water running down a gut reaches the sea. And, of course, salty water from the sea fills many of our salt ponds.
These brackish waters—neither part of the sea, nor totally separate from it—are a rich and unique habitat. The creatures that live here must adapt to the changing conditions of this zone: a rainstorm pushing the balance towards freshness, a dry spell pushing it to salty.
For some, life between two worlds is just a passing phase. Many juvenile fish use brackish mangrove wetlands as a nursery. In the shallow water, sheltered in mangrove roots, they find a safe place to grow. They then swim out to the coral reef to live. Some freshwater species—like the Mountain Mullet and many freshwater shrimp—float in the sea as eggs. After hatching they travel with the current, then swim into fresh water to mature.
Fish like the Crested Goby spend a lifetime on the borderline. They often live around mangroves, digging out a hollow in the sand or finding a root-sheltered hiding spot. They also live in estuaries where streams and rivers empty into the sea. Unlike most fish, they can live perfectly fresh water, pure seawater and anything in-between.
The Crested Goby is also flexible when it comes to food. Algae is on the menu, but so are crabs, insects, snails and even small fish. It is an integral part of the wetland community that captures nutrients washed down from the island. It plays a part in keeping the seas both clean and full of life.
The adaptable Crested Goby has found a niche that allows it to occupy the cracks and crevices between two worlds. In doing so, it has also turned its back on life in the open ocean. It is a creature of the sea, tied forever to the edge of the land.


text:
100 YEARS AGO
The art of George Bellows seems to be one that is either likeable or repellant. He excites in his broadly brushed virile (Winslow) Homer-(ic) oils, painted with two or three exceptions along the Maine Coast last Summer and Autumn, and now shown at the Montross Galleries, 550 Fifth Ave., through Jan. 31, either the enthusiastic praise or the anathemas of the cognoscenti. . . .
Following in Winslow Homer’s footsteps Bellows, like Rockwell Kent, has translated with crude color, oftentimes, but it seems to the writer, with remarkable strength and sympathy, the scenery, the sea and the humans of the stern and rockbound Maine Coast.
— “George Bellows at Montross’s,” January 24, 1914
75 YEARS AGO
A display of Shaker arts and crafts which has been current at the Worcester Art Museum strikingly calls attention to the fact that functionalism is by no means a purely modern theory, though a century and a half ago when this small religious group set up their first colony on our shores it doubtless appeared more revolutionary than in contemporary design today. . . .
The purity of line and form in furniture, the neatly balanced proportions of buildings, the refinement of design in ironware and sober perfection of all crafts produced by relatively self-sustaining Shaker communities are, indeed, a model for the utilitarian modes of today. Avoiding “carnal” styles and tastes, the Shakers took a guild-like pride in their work which would glorify their heavenly calling.
—“Worcester: Functionalism of Shaker Craftsmen: An Illuminating Show,” January 14, 1939
50 YEARS AGO
The more so since his accomplishments on a world scale are likely to overshadow, quite understandably, his record also as a cultural force.
The Kennedy administration’s influence in this area came about as the result, one often as indirect as it was positive, of the youthful President’s own tastes and ideas, and also through some of the people in his closest surroundings (including his wife, certain of his family and friends, along with a few officials). It had to be so—for no such presidential role is called for by American law or national tradition.
–“Editorial: Kennedy pro arte…et sequitur?,” by Alfred Frankfurter, January 1964
25 YEARS AGO
What kind of mirror would Goya have offered to our century, the century of Auschwitz, the gulag, Hiroshima, apartheid, the Salvadoran death squads and the contra war in Nicaragua? One immediately thinks, once again, of the great Saturn painting. And, with a sad smile, one looks back on the Century of Lights and hears the philosopher John Locke proclaiming, from the height of the Age of Reason, that “human understanding is. . . in all places the same, although imperfectly developed in idiots, children, and savages.”
Looking at Francisco de Goya through his deformed mirror, one sees the artist embrace precisely the marginal, the forgotten, the outraged, so as to include them in a vision of humanity that enlarges our own historic and human possibility by looking at what we also are, but have perhaps forgotten. . . . Like all great art, Goya’s makes the past part of our present—actual, searingly contemporaneous.
— “Goya and the Spirit of Revolution,” by Carlos Fuentes, January 1989

domain: history


text:
Any recombinant DNA with desired gene is required in billion copies for commercial use. How is the amplification done? Explain.
Amplification of gene is done using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR).
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is best defined as in vitro process of DNA replication . This technique was developed by Kary Mullis in 1985 who received Nobel Prize for it in 1993.
The basic requirements of a PCR reaction are as follows:
(a) DNA Template The double stranded DNA that needs to be amplified. .
(b) Primers These are chemically synthesised oligonucleotides (short segment of DNA) that are complementary to the regions of DNA template.
© Enzymes Two commonly used enzymes in PCR reaction are:
• Taq Polymerase It is isolated from a thermophilic bacterium, i.e. Thermus aquations. It has a property to remain active during the high temperature induced denaturation of double stranded DNA. It also helps in the amplification of a segment of DNA.
• Vent Polymerase (isolated from Thermococcus litoralis).
(d) Nucleotide bases These are added by DNA polymerase to the growing chain.


text:
Reduce your overpayments and improve collection rates
Benefits and Overpayments Review
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The easy to implement review analyses your existing system to identify, prioritise and report overpayments that are ready for recovery, along with the additional information you need to start collecting it.
With a unique set of reports, it is guaranteed to increase your recovery rates and reduce your costs.
We can help you
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Provide actionable results in each monthly report
Improved aged debt profile
£325,000Average additional income identified by current users
Enabled prompt optimisation of recovery streams
Your work on overpayment recovery has led to a significant increase in revenue for the council. Your application of best practice and innovative methodology has made a real positive impact on our recovery rates.
Nick RoweHead of Revenues & Benefits, London Borough of Hounslow


Motorists encouraged to help keep roadways clear of litter
BISMARCK – The North Dakota Department of Transportation and North Dakota Highway Patrol are reminding motorists to do their part in keeping roadways clear of litter. Ditches along the roadway can be inundated with trash and debris from vehicles. In North Dakota it’s against the law to litter. By following a few tips, everyone can help keep North Dakota clean:
® Set an example for others by not littering.
® Keep a litter bag in your car and hang on to litter until you find a garbage receptacle
® Large or heavy items should be firmly secured with solid straps, rope, bungee cords or netting. Tie large items directly to your vehicle.
® Cover loose, lighter items such as tree clippings with a sturdy plastic or canvas tarp or netting. Tie the tarp securely to the vehicle, or it might become road debris as well.
® Put lighter weight things at the bottom of the load and make sure they are secure. Evenly distribute the load to prevent it from sliding.
® Keep material level with truck bed or trailer unless tied down, netted or tarped. Materials below the truck bed should also be secured if there’s any chance of them blowing out or falling from the vehicle.
® Double check your load if possible to make sure it is secure at the back and on the sides and top. Remember that loads can move and settle during a journey, allowing restraints to loosen.
Agencies across the state are taking part in clean-up efforts and motorists may see volunteers conducting litter control activities along the highway throughout the spring and summer months.
For more information on keeping North Dakota clean go to http://www.dot.nd.gov/public/kndc.htm


The Messy Studio with Rebecca Crowell
The podcast at the intersection of art, travel, business, philosophy, and life in general.
We found 1 episode of The Messy Studio with Rebecca Crowell with the tag “buddhism”.
Episode 10: Kai Harper Interview, Buddhism and Art
February 24th, 2018 | 41 mins 9 secs
art, buddhism, kai harper, rebecca crowell
Rebecca Crowell and Kai Harper discuss art, philosophy, and Buddhism.


text:
It's time now to welcome the newest members of our Morning Mug Club -- brought to you by Holland Farms Bakery & Deli.
On Saturday, June 5, Copper City Community Connection in Rome is hosting a Huge Yard Sale Fundraiser!
It's happening at their facility located at 305 East Locust Street from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Stop down and see what treasures they have to offer!
They will have food/beverage items available all day: Hamburgers, Hot Dogs, French Fries, Popcorn, Water and Soft Drinks
They also have sweet treats: Fried Dough and Cotton Candy
To learn more, call 315-337-8230, or visit their website.


12 Mar Global Cebu to face Yangon United in AFC Cup anew
Philippines Football League (PFL) club Global Cebu FC will be facing Myanmar’s Yangon United FC anew in the group stage of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Cup at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium in Manila on Tuesday, 13 March.
Last year’s League runners up are yet to snatch their first win in the competition and are seated on the bottom of Group G with just a point on their card on a 0-1-2 win-draw-loss record.
During the club’s previous outing, they suffered a 3-0 defeat in the hands of Yangon United at the Thuwanna Stadium in Myanmar with former Global Cebu reinforcement Sekou Sylla scoring a brace against the Filipino side last 7 March.
Currently, the club from Cebu is facing a tall task of winning all their three remaining matches to bolster their chances of securing a seat in the next round of the tournament.


||SAB report : evaluation of EPA's research on expert systems to predict the fate and effects of chemicals /
||Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC. Science Advisory Board.
||U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Science Advisory Board,
Expert systems (Computer science)
Chemical compounds ;
Environment effects ;
Expert systems ;
Computer programming ;
Artificial intelligence ;
Chemical properties ;
Chemical reactivity ;
Spectroscopic analysis ;
Research and development ;
Organic compounds ;
Comparative evaluations ;
QSAR expert system ;
SPARC expert system ;
CRAMS expert system ;
QSAR(Quantitative Structure Activity Relationships)
||Most EPA libraries have a fiche copy filed under the call number shown. Check with individual libraries about paper copy.
||iv,11,3 pp. ; 28 cm.
This report presents the conclusions and recommendations of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Science Advisory Board following a review of research in progress on 'Expert Systems for Predicting the Environmental Fate and Effects of Chemicals'. Three research programs were reviewed. SPARC is an expert system for estimating chemical and physical reactivity. CRAMS predicts reactivity parameters of organic chemicals from spectroscopic data. The QSAR has several expert systems within it, but for this review, the Subcommittee concentrated on the 'Single Integrated Language for Chemicals' and the plans for predicting mechanisms of toxic action from chemical structure. The Subcommittee supports the continued development and vigorous testing of each system. The SPARC and QSAR systems were considered state-of-the-art.
Cover title. "EPA-SAB-EPEC-92-004". Memorandum signed by Dr. Kenneth L. Dickson, Dr. Robert J. Huggett, and Dr. Raymond C. Loehr.


text: The Xebec Mediterranean Ship Model is a fully assembled replica of the merchant ship used for centuries in the Mediterranean Sea. Because of its speed, the Xebec became the vessel of choice for the Barbary pirates who operated primarily from North Africa. This collectible model is completely hand built from a selection of mahogany, western red cedar, and rosewood. Additional features include three masts with intricate rigging, metal cannons around the hull, extended stern, rowboat with oars, detailed metal ornaments, with attached display stand and brass nameplate. Measures approximately Length: 35" Width: 7" Height: 27".


ATP Rankings: Novak Djokovic back at No 1 after Australian Open win, Nick Kyrgios up to No 20
It was another fortnight to remember for Novak Djokovic at Melbourne Park as he not only retained his Australian Open crown, but also regained top spot in the ATP Rankings.
Djokovic beat Dominic Thiem in five sets on Rod Laver Arena on Sunday to win the season-opening major for an eighth time, and the result also saw him replace Rafael Nadal as world No 1.
Nadal finished runner-up to the Serb in last year’s final, but he fell at the quarter-final stage to Thiem and now finds himself 325 adrift of first place.
This week marks Djokovic’s 276th week at the top of the rankings with only Roger Federer (310) and Pete Sampras (286) ahead of him.
“That’s one of the two biggest goals, for sure. I mean, there is no secret in that,” Djokovic said after winning Melbourne.
Federer remains third while Thiem is up one place to fourth with US Open runner-up Daniil Medvedev down to fifth while Spaniard Roberto Bautista Agut drops out of the top 10.
Nick Kyrgios was a big mover as he climbed six places up to No 20 in the world on the back of his run to the last 16 at the Australian Open.
Dan Evans remains the British No 1, but he dropped two places to No 34 after his second-round exit in Melbourne while Cameron Norrie is up one place to No 61 with Kyle Edmund three places below him.
Top 20 ATP Rankings
1. Novak Djokovic (Serbia) 9,720 pts (+1)
2. Rafael Nadal (Spain) 9,395 (-1)
3. Roger Federer (Switzerland) 7,130
4. Dominic Thiem (Austria) 7,045 (+1)
5. Daniil Medvedev (Russia) 5,960 (-1)
6. Stefanos Tsitsipas (Greece) 4,745
7. Alexander Zverev (Germany) 3,885
8. Matteo Berrettini (Italy) 2,905
9. Gael Monfils (France) 2,700 (+1)
10. David Goffin (Belgium) 2,555 (+1)
11. Fabio Fognini (Italy) 2,400 (+1)
12. Roberto Bautista (Spain) 2,360 (-3)
13. Stanislas Wawrinka (Switzerland) 2,360 (+2)
14. Diego Schwartzman (Argentina) 2,220
15. Andrey Rublev (Russia) 2,174 (+1)
16. Denis Shapovalov (Canada) 2,120 (-3)
17. Karen Khachanov (Russia) 1,995
18. John Isner (United States) 1,940 (+1)
19. Benoit Paire (France) 1,738 (+2)
20. Nick Kyrgios (Australia) 1,690 (+6)
Nick Kyrgios news: Special K ‘worry about tennis second’ after reaching Australian Open final
Another day, another win for Special K at the Australian Open.
Follow the 2022 Australian Open with our live scores and results centre here
Catch the action from Melbourne Park.
Australian Open news: In conversation with Alizé Lim on Djokovic, Raducanu and TV presenting
In conversation with Alizé Lim.
Peng Shuai news: IOC plans to meet with Chinese player at Winter Olympics
IOC plans to solve the Peng Shaui situation.
Andy Murray news: Tim Henman backs three-time Grand Slam winner for a deep run at Wimbledon
Tim Henman feels Andy Murray will impress at Wimbledon.
Rafael Nadal news: Uncle Toni reveals 20-time major winner came close to pulling out of Australian Open
“I don’t know if I’m going to go,” Rafael Nadal said just days before he was due to leave.
Australian Open news: More Grand Slam glory and history for Alfie Hewett and Gordon Reid
Hewett and Reid have not been beaten in doubles at a Slam since Wimbledon in 2019.
Rafael Nadal news: Spaniard focusing on his own game instead of Grand Slam record
Rafael Nadal just wants to play his game, not put in the same basket as record chasers.
Stefanos Tsitsipas news: ‘I proved him wrong,’ jokes Greek after reaching Australian Open semi-final
Stefanos Tsitsipas is back in the Australian Open semi-final.


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Meet the island
The island of Kea
Kea is the westernmost island of the Cyclades with a perimeter of about 85km and a surface of 131 square kilometers. The port is just 16 miles from Lavrio, which makes it the closest to Cyclades in Attica and the International Airport El. Venizelos. The highest mountain is Prophet Elias with an altitude of 568 meters. Also on the island there is one of the largest natural harbors (bays) of the Mediterranean, the bay of Agios Nikolaos.
Special products of Kea to look for
During your stay at Kea do not miss a "more substantial taste" from Tzia. Tasting and enjoying local dishes such as "paspalas" (small pieces of pork cooked with tomatoes and eggs), "cigarettes" (pieces of pork meat with fat), "loza" (smoked pork), local sausages (smoked and made with local herbs), traditional cheeses (ksirotiri, mizithra, ksino, kopanisti).
We also recommend you to taste cock of wine, spaghetti with lobster and, of course, fresh fish. Combine your food with a glass of black wine that the locals call "mavroudi".
Before leaving, do not forget to buy local meat, extra virgin olive oil and thyme honey, pasteli, handmade sweets, almonds, but also products such as "spatholado" and "keralifi", which the locals consider to have healing and soothing properties.
Beaches of Kea
Korissia beach is the nearest to the port. The waters of the beach are always clean since the bay is open which allows the water to be refreshed. The restaurants, cafes, bars, gift shops, supermarkets and all the professionals are willing to serve you, and the beach-bar on the edge of the beach will cool you and offer you the sunbeds for free!
Gialiskari beach is just one kilometer from the port. The shady eucalyptus and the "armirikia" tie beautifully with the emerald waters of the beach! With cocktails, snacks and the view of the lighthouse, one can enjoy beautiful hours of relaxation!
Otzias beach is the longest beach on the island since the water covers about 500 meters of sand! There are private sunbeds, kiosks and benches from the Municipality and the trees along it make your bath invigorating! The restaurants and the pavilion of the area are at your disposal all day long, the beach volley and of course the playground awaits explorers and athletes of all ages!
Kampi beach is southwest of the island and about 3km from Koundouros. The enchanting houses perched on the rocks mix with the clear turquoise waters. The beach has sand and pebbles, there are trees and kiosks for shade and when you are hungry, you will find a tavern above the beach smelling cooked food!
Koundouros beach is considered to be one of the most touristic beaches on the island. The facilities have excellent organization since you can find coffee and loungers, food and mini markets. The beach is mostly sandy and at the edge there are some rocks that go inside the sea and make the landscape special! The waters are blue-green, ideally warm and somewhat shallow at first.
Poisses beach is at the west of the island, large in size and very well organized with volleyball net and sun loungers on the sandy beach, with trees for shade and crystal clear waters for refreshing dives. A few meters from the beach you will find the only camping on the island, while there are restaurants and mini-markets in the area.
Xyla Beach is located on the northwest coast of Kea, 12 kilometers from the capital Ioulida and about 4.5 km south of Korissia. Xyla beach is one of the most popular beaches on Kea, in a beautiful and picturesque Cycladic environment, and many are those who choose to enjoy a swim. It is a beautiful beach with golden sand and small pebbles on the shore and crystal clear and relatively deep water.
Spathi BeachThe beach of Spathi is one of the most beautiful on Kea. It is large with nice bright sand, and can be found at 14 km from Ioulida, the capital of the island. The travel to this beach is also very pleasant, since it takes visitors to an arid area of tranquil beauty, after which a green valley appears on the scenery
Things to do in Kea
Kea is a destination with a network of cobblestone path streets and the complex relief of the island gave these cobblestone paths a special character. Slopes, ravines, hills, springs, settlements, mills, country churches, beaches, archaeological finds, oak trees are the unique elements of the landscape of Kea that you will meet through your wandering in the wonderful paths of the island.
Places of interest
The capital of Kea (chora) or Ioulida, as it was its old name, is amphitheatrically built inland on a hill. It is distanced 6km from the port of the island, Korissia . Ioulida is the only one of the countries of ancient Tetrapolis built in an inner part of the island.
Events & Activities
Events Festive memorial events – “Lambros Katsonis” For two consecutive years, in July, celebrations are celebrated in memory of Lambros Katsonis, a historian, who played an important role in the history of Kea during the years of the Russian-Ottoman war. His history is known, since, when he was excluded from the Turks at the bay […]


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- Pioneer axe head.German.
Pioneer axe head.German.
German ww2 Pioneer axe head. Found in a place where Gebirgsjägers capitulated in May 1945 in Northern Norway. Cleaned with electrolysis. Producer stamp partly visible, looks like "1942". The leftovers of the wood has been treated with oil to preserve it.
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Swedish Ammo belt. WW1
Swedish Ammo belt. WW1. 5 pockets for rifle rounds. Very nice condition. Stamped and marked.
German E-tool "Schanzzeug"
German Entrenching tool,"Schanzzeug". WW2. A well used example.


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Seriously, the spark that has ignited the revolt in Libya is an outcry for democracy and against corruption?
The media tend to limit the reasons for the rise of the insurgents to the hunger for freedom of Libya. The Arab mass media because they hate Gaddafi and the West because assume that everyone wishes for his country a democratic regime like ours.
In the case of Tunisia and Egypt, they are right. The capitals of these two countries have been the hub of the peaceful protests for change. People came out on the street with a unanimous outcry for freedom, and the ball has become bigger and bigger to the point of forcing the leave of the respective presidents. Instead, change in Libya has begun at the provinces, far from the center of power, one that overnight went from trying to benefit from the regime to confront it violently.
In order to understand the specific changes that are going on in Libya, we should better know a little of its recent history. Unlike their neighbors, the colonial power there left was little trace. The elites of Tripoli were not westernized culture or ideologically to the same extent that new Frenchified in Algiers or Tunis. This allowed them to keep the force and structure of the tribal ties prior to the arrival of the Italians, at the expense of a central authority. For this reason, although it may seem paradoxical, Gaddafi’s speech which advocates the power of the masses against the power of the state apparatus fits well with the tribal structure, which is an assembly to some extent, commitment to self-ruling and does not want to depend on higher powers.
Thus, regardless of the different political ideologies which are identified within the Libyans, most of the society pays allegiance to his tribe, like the soldiers who have abandoned these days the discipline of the army. In fact, getting a job or attaining a certain economic status primarily depends on the protection offered by the tribe. So, if the heads of a tribe decided to get up in arms, automatically, all members of that community take the streets with their rifles.
Many tribes feel marginalized in the sharing of oil revenues, while those who co-led the dictatorship with Gaddafi clan for four decades, aspire to have even more power. The winds of change that run through North Africa, plus some last-minute eccentricity, like the assassination of a head of a major Arab tribe that had traditionally supported Gaddafi at the hands of one of the sons of the Colonel, have convinced the tribes to do not support the dictator any more and make him fall through an attempted coup. Now, Gaddafi only has the support of a few Amazigh (Berber) tribes, peculiarly belonging to a culture that the Colonel considers a myth created by colonial powers to divide the Nord-African population.
Once the Gaddafi resistance dies smothered by the international blockade or the Colonel has been jailed or executed, a second stage of the tribal struggle for control of oil revenues will start. We hope that this time it will be no violent and it’s developed in a scenario of greater freedom and respect for human rights.
Author: Jordi Llaonart

domain: sociology


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I need a backsplash! Please help with design? (pics)
ItÂs a blank slate Â will you please help me mark it up?
I still have so many little details to finish in this kitchen, but I'm ready to start on the backsplash behind the range because IÂm sick of looking at the ugly wall. I have no idea where to start and am not feeling particularly creative, so of course, I'm asking all my TKO friends for ideas.
In the beginning I thought I would do creamy subway tiles, but now I'm thinking that I need something darker to "anchor" the dark hood to the rest of the space (photos below).
Things to note:
1) Tiles will also go down the sides of the adjacent cabs instead of veneering with wood;
2) Counters are IKEA BB and have been in place for several years - intended to be temporary and eventually replaced with soapstone. Now it's up in the air whether we will actually be staying in this house. If we do stay, I'm using Santa Rita Venata SS. If we donÂt stay, I'm not spending $$ to change the counters. I am willing to stain them darker, however, if you think that would look better.
3) Cabinet color and hood color cannot be changed. It is what it is. The contrast is softer in real life than it looks in photo, but again, I think the backsplash (any maybe counter) will be the key to tying it all together.
4) I am not a fan of anything modern or contemporary-looking. For ex, I donÂt really like glass tiles, multi-colored bright geometrics or such, but IÂm open to all suggestions.
5) Design needs to be something relatively easy (and not outrageously expensive) because it will be completely DIY. However, I donÂt want something totally boring either (like in my MN kitchen where I had to throw something up quick b/c the house was going on the market).
6) I have already looked through the entire FKB for inspiration Â but nothing is really grabbing me. I need INPUT! IÂm a visual person, so photos or mock-ups help too.
Here is the space:
Here is one tile I found at LoweÂs that I like and I think the color is good Â but again, what to do? Just use this one all over? I guess we could call this my inspiration tile (not very inspiring, huh?). Is it TOO dark?
What would you do with this space? Please give me any and all suggestions! I really appreciate it!


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Opinion: Jeb Bush’s influence critical to new Mississippi career, tech certification law
Published 9:14 am Monday, May 20, 2019
Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush may have been a failure as a presidential candidate in 2016, but he’s still a success in Mississippi education policy.
Bush’s Foundation for Excellence in Education was a prime mover behind a bill that Mississippi lawmakers passed almost unanimously earlier this year to pay public schools to turn out more career and technical students with industry certifications.
The idea is for schools to be more responsive to the training needs of business and industry. A report released this month by the foundation and Burning Glass Technologies finds that Mississippi’s career training efforts are in “low alignment” with the kinds of certifications that employers actually ask for when they’re hiring people.
For example, Mississippi high schools turn out 500 high school students who have earned a particular automotive repair certification, while the report estimates that the job market is demanding more than 1,600 a year.
Senate Bill 2447 was sponsored by outgoing Sen. Gray Tollison, the Oxford Republican who has chaired the Senate Education Committee for eight years and has often been receptive to the foundation’s proposals. It aroused little opposition, passing the Senate 51-0 and the House 111-2.
Nathan Hoffman, who spearheads the foundation’s Mississippi efforts, said the money will steer schools toward offering the right courses, and give them enough funding to provide quality offerings.
“The incentive plan has allowed school district to focus on quality rather than just the quantity of industry certifications,” he said.
A school is supposed to get $600 per student who earns a qualifying industry certification, as defined by the State Workforce Investment Board using criteria meant to require training that fills economic needs. The board sets workforce training policy across the state’s training providers. Maybe the most important requirement, Hoffman said, is that the jobs covered by the certification are supposed to pay at least 70 percent of Mississippi’s average annual wage, or almost $27,000 a year.
The grants will pay for student exam fees, teacher professional development and student instructional support. The money can’t be used to replace dollars already being spent to run career-technical programs.
The Legislature appropriated $500,000 to fund the law, which Gov. Phil Bryant signed and will take effect on July 1. It’s unclear if that will be enough to cover all payments. If there’s not enough money to pay $600 for every certification, the Mississippi Department of Education is supposed to divide the money into smaller, equal amounts.
Like Mississippi’s initiative to require third-grade students to reach a certain reading level before advancing to fourth grade, the industry certification bonuses are modeled on a policy that was implemented in Florida when Bush was governor.
In the Sunshine State, the foundation says the state saw big increases in enrollment and number of certifications earned. Schools earn bonus funding too, like they will in Mississippi. In Florida, teachers themselves get bonuses of $50 per student who earns a certification that turns into college credit, up to $2,000 per teacher, a feature not included in the Mississippi law.
Hoffman said Colorado, Kansas, Tennessee, and Wisconsin have also adopted versions of the law.
One point of friction in Mississippi — some credentials cited as most-demanded are for training typically now provided by community colleges, including licensed practical nurses, emergency medical technicians and pharmacy technicians.
Hoffman said community colleges shouldn’t see this as competition, saying many students who earn credentials in high school then go on to community college for even more training.
“If they’re earning the right ones, those high value credentials, it helps them to get their foot in the door,” Hoffman said.
Jeff Amy has covered politics and government for The Associated Press in Mississippi since 2011.


Futurologist Marian Salzman, a director in the worldwide advertising agency Young and Rubicam, highlights several trends for the year ahead in a book to be published this week called Next: A Vision of Our Lives in the Future.
In education she predicts greater parental involvement. In America, for example, up to 1.6 million children are now being schooled at home. "The push to prepare our children for the new millennium results in a surge in everything from home schooling to educational software and private tutors," she says.
Self reliance will continue after school. She says the decline of the welfare state and job security will encourage self help and entrepreneurship.
She predicts people will become more sceptical about the mass of information they receive via new technology.
And while mass merchandising will have its place, the drift is towards personalised products - from do-it-yourself beauty treatments to herbal remedies and home DIY.
Ms Salzman predicts that the moral high ground will become the new source of conflict. Witness, she says, the murder of abortion providers in the US and the more extreme acts of animal liberation activists."We'll see extremists wrest control of issues from those who would tend toward compromise and moderation."
And if the pre-millennial tension becomes too much, then consumers will turn to pills. "Whether it's Viagra, Prozac or miracle diet drugs, it's all part of our growing intolerance for anything but the quickest of fixes," she says.Reuse content


A study by the environmental organization Oceana, which sampled about 8,000 hectares to the north, south and east of the Cabrera national park in 2007, has identified a dozen ecosystems and nearly three hundred species. This demonstrates the natural wealth and biodiversity hidden on the seabed adjacent to the national sea and land park and the need to expand their protection, the group says.https://mappinglondon.co.uk/2023/wqjb0j9
https://www.thiswildlifeofmine.com/d6rmwej8pc3 Xavier Pastor, executive director of Oceana Europe, has seen the devastating effects that the nets from trawlers have had on the area. The Minister of Environment, Miquel Angel Grimalt, who supported the presentation of the Cabrera study, has pledged to extend the protection of these marine areas as a result of the findings.
https://aquarl-duval.com/2023/12/20/sh0wsbt Ricardo Aguilar, the research director aboard the catamaran Oceana Ranger, used an underwater robot operated by remote control to capture images at depths of up to 600 metres. The survey revealed the areas of the greatest ecological value are found to the east of the protected area of the park.


Testdrive With a frugal diesel engine under the hood, the Chevrolet Beat should appeal to buyers looking for low running costs
With the Indian market flooded with small cars, it seems a bit mind numbing to think that there are very few diesel cars in this segment. Finally though, General Motors has come with a diesel offering in its new Chevrolet Beat TCDi. With no real opponents to compete with, the Beat diesel will serve as a tester for all the companies fighting it out in this arena. Has GM really cracked the code? Time to find out.
At the heart of the matter is GM's SDE Smartech motor. This engine is related to the famous four-cylinder Multijet diesel that was jointly developed by GM and Fiat. For the Beat, one cylinder was knocked off that has pared the engine down from 1248cc to 936cc to make it the smallest diesel engine in any car today. However, snipping off a cylinder isn't as easy as it seems. When we tested the Beat petrol, we were impressed by its smoothness and low noise levels and GM engineers have worked very hard to achieve a high level of refinement on the diesel as well. A balancer shaft and vibration dampers have been used to control the typical thrum of a three-cylinder motor. However, it's not that easy in a car as compact as the Beat. There's less bodywork and sheet metal (to absorb noise), and hence diesel clatter and vibrations typically get amplified.
In fact, reducing noise and vibration was the biggest challenge, which slightly delayed the launch of the Beat diesel. But, right from the first crank, you can tell that the hard work has paid off.
Once fired up, the oil burner settles down to a remarkably smooth and quiet idle. Out on the roads, it felt at home in the slow-moving traffic. The small engine ambles around in a higher gear with the rev counter needle hovering above 1000rpm. Step on the gas and the progress is quite languid right until the 1600rpm mark but once the small, fixed-geometry turbo kicks in, you get a respectable and useful step-up in pace. The powerband spreads up to 3500rpm and the short gear ratios, especially first and second, amplify the 15.29kgm of torque to make city driving remarkably easy.
In the powerband, the Beat diesel responds to throttle inputs with an unhurried yet assertive manner. Just don't expect it to be energetic or exciting. In our run from 20-80kph in third gear, the Beat diesel took 14.1 seconds. This is significantly quicker than the Beat petrol (15.9sec). The punchy mid-range can be gauged by the 40-100kph sprint in fourth gear which takes a respectable 16.48sec. Some of this could be handed down to the Beat's kerb weight of 1027kg.
A light diesel thrum builds up beyond the 2500rpm mark and the engine noise becomes pretty apparent. Although it isn't intrusive, the light boom is always present as you zip down the highway at near-triple-digit speeds. The run from 0-100kph takes a relaxed 18.5sec and overtaking manoeuvres are pretty laborious. You have to shift down a gear or two by working the slightly notchy and long-throw gearshift for best results but the lack of top-end punch is always evident. The engine labours to its 5000rpm rev limit and it's best to shift up early.
However, all of the Beat diesel's performance shortcomings can be wiped clean by fuel efficiency figures that would make Uncle Scrooge proud. In our fuel runs, the Beat delivered 19.1kpl out on the highway despite the shorter gearing taking a slight toll there. In the city it delivered an astounding 16kpl, which makes it more efficient than any other car we have tested to date. The frugal nature of the Beat diesel is clearly its trump card.
Apart from dropping in a completely new engine, Chevy has tinkered with the Beat in other areas as well. Out on the highway, the Beat has always been surefooted while offering good ride comfort in the city. GM India has improved the ride further by switching to new gas-charged shock absorbers and wider 165/65-R14 Goodyear rubber. The Beat now rides over rough patches with impressive pliancy and, though it still bobs over the bumps and broken roads, it has pretty good body control. In fact, for such a small car the ride quality is quite good. GM has also replaced the Beat's hydraulic steering system with a sophisticated electrically-powered steering that provides variable assist.
On the inside, the Beat diesel is hard to differentiate from the petrol variant. The plastic quality is generally good but space is as at a premium. The rear feels narrow and cramped while the 170-litre boot is too small for a practical diesel.
The top-end LT(O) variant comes packed with powered windows and automatic air-conditioning. The music system looks the same but it now sports improved sound and a standard, full-sized USB port. ABS and airbags are also on offer. From the outside too, the Beat diesel is identical to the petrol variant. The bratty styling is eye-catching and has a young, hip feel to it. Equipment options include the round fog lamps and 10-spoke alloy wheels. There's only the discreet TCDi badge on the boot to tell you what diet the Beat is running on.
At a price that ranges from Rs. 4.29 lakh to Rs. 4.99 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi) the Beat diesel could dominate a newly-formed sector for some time.


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Tell us about:
Your latest single you have released:
On Vodno is our debut EP. We wrote and produced it together during our time in North Macedonia. Peter Katis from The National, mixed the EP.
Your first single and how you felt when it was released:
Our first single was Blurry Mess. It felt great to release music as a new band with a fresh sound.
Your favourite song that you have created that is an album track:
This is a hard one. I think we both don’t particularly have a favorite song, but if we had to pick, Lucas’ favourite would be ‘Poets’ and Aman’s would be ‘Blurry Mess’.
Your favourite song to play live:
Favourite songs to play live would probably be ‘Blurry Mess‘ or ‘Poets‘
Your most emotional track:
The best lyric you have ever written:
“Come let’s speak our worries, before we say goodbye” – Poets
Describe the feeling you get when you walk on stage to do a show:
Eager, nervous and excited
The hardest track to play live:
Essential items you always take on tour with you?
Laptop, sunglasses and a camera.
Describe your fans in three words:
Cool as F***
A song by another artist or band you wish you had written:
‘Every Time the Sun Comes Up’ by Sharon Van Etten
What we can look forward to from your band this year:
We’re currently working on our next project. It’s bigger, louder and faster
Categories: Music, Music Interviews, Today's Featured Artist
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domain: artistic