text:
In this article
How Arthritis Affects Daily Living and Mobility
Arthritis and musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions affect over 17 million people across the UK; of these, over 10 million people have arthritis. That is one in six people living with pain, immobility, disability, reduced dexterity, fatigue and often anxiety, depression or social isolation. These conditions disproportionately affect those who are socially and economically disadvantaged. People who live in the most deprived fifth of society are more likely to report arthritis or a long-term MSK condition compared to those living in the least deprived fifth.
Public Health England (PHE) has reported that there are 9.11 million people living with long-term back pain in England alone, and over 8.75 million people aged 45 and over have sought treatment for osteoarthritis. Conditions such as arthritis are generally not fatal, meaning people can live with them for many years. However, the impact of arthritis is huge for the individual as these conditions can intrude on their everyday life, affecting their ability to work, care for a family, move free from pain and live independently. People with arthritis are 20% less likely to be in work than someone without arthritis, and MSK conditions such as arthritis are responsible for 30 million working days lost each year, causing a substantial impact on the economy.
Living with arthritis isn’t easy and carrying out simple, everyday tasks can often be painful and difficult.
What is arthritis?
Arthritis is not just one disease alone, it is an umbrella term for more than 100 conditions that affect the joints of the body particularly the wrists, knuckles, hips, knees and ankles. The word arthritis simply means inflammation of the joint. The reasons for that inflammation, however, vary between the different forms. The three most common forms of arthritis are:
Osteoarthritis – this is the most common form of arthritis, affecting millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones wears down over time. It is a degenerative disease that most commonly affects joints in the hands, knees, hips and spine, although it can damage any joint. The signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis typically appear more often in individuals over the age of 50, and one third of people over the age of 45 in the UK have sought treatment for osteoarthritis. However, osteoarthritis can affect much younger people, too, especially those who have had a prior joint injury. It typically develops slowly over time, but after such an injury, it can develop much more rapidly, within just a few years. An estimated 5.4 million people in the UK have knee osteoarthritis, and an estimated 3.2 million people in the UK have hip osteoarthritis. Almost all (98%) of initial knee replacements are due to osteoarthritis.
Rheumatoid arthritis – this is an auto-immune disease, meaning that the symptoms such as pain and inflammation are caused by the immune system attacking healthy tissue; in this case, the lining of the joints. Although rheumatoid arthritis can occur at any age, the typical age of onset is around 40–60 years of age, and it affects around 1% of the UK population. Women are more likely than men to develop rheumatoid arthritis. The exact causes of this immune response are unknown, though experts do know that genetics and environmental factors play a part.
Gout – this is a type of inflammatory arthritis that can cause painful swelling in the joints. It typically affects the big toe, but it can also affect other joints in the body. Gout is a common and complex form of arthritis that can affect anyone. Gout occurs when urate crystals accumulate in the joint, causing the inflammation and intense pain of a gout attack. Urate crystals can form when a person has high levels of uric acid in their blood. Certain purine-rich foods, including red meat and organ meats (such as liver), seafood including anchovies, sardines, mussels, scallops, trout and tuna, alcoholic beverages, especially beer, and drinks sweetened with fruit sugar (fructose) promote higher levels of uric acid. Gout occurs more often in men, primarily because women tend to have lower uric acid levels. After menopause, however, women’s uric acid levels approach those of men. Men are also more likely to develop gout earlier in life, usually between the ages of 30 and 50 years, whereas women generally develop signs and symptoms after menopause.
Other forms of arthritis include, but are not limited to:
Spondylarthritis – this describes a number of conditions that cause pain and swelling, mainly around the joints of the spine. In these conditions there is inflammation of small pieces of connective tissues, called entheses. These are tough little cords that join either ligaments or tendons to bones. A type of spondylarthritis is ankylosing spondylitis, which causes pain and swelling, mainly around the joints of the spine. In response to inflammation around the spine, the body can create more of the mineral calcium. This mineral is normally used by the body to make bones strong. However, in ankylosing spondylitis the extra calcium can make new bits of bone grow in the spine, and this will cause pain and stiffness. Ankylosing spondylitis usually occurs between the ages of 20 and 30 years and it is more common among men.
Psoriatic arthritis – this is an auto-immune condition, which is also a type of spondylarthritis. The body’s immune system can cause painful swelling and stiffness within and around the joints, as well as a red scaly skin rash called psoriasis. The rash can affect several places in the body, including the elbows, knees, back, buttocks and scalp. It is also common to have severe tiredness or fatigue. Psoriatic arthritis usually affects people who already have psoriasis. However, some people develop the arthritis before the psoriasis. It’s possible to have the arthritis but no psoriasis at all. This condition can affect people of any age, but tends to affect adults.
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis – this is the term used for anyone diagnosed with inflammatory arthritis before their sixteenth birthday. It typically causes joint pain and inflammation in the hands, knees, ankles, elbows and/or wrists, although it may affect other body parts too.
Systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus) – this is an autoimmune disease. In this disease, the immune system of the body mistakenly attacks healthy tissue. It can affect the skin, joints, kidneys, brain and other organs. It is more common in women than men by nearly 10 to 1, although it may occur at any age. It appears most often in young women between the ages of 15 and 44 years. Whilst symptoms vary from person to person, and may come and go, everyone with systemic lupus erythematosus has joint pain and swelling at some time and some people go on to develop arthritis.
According to a 2023 report by the charity Versus Arthritis in the UK:
- 5.4 million people are estimated to have knee osteoarthritis
- 3.2 million people are estimated to have hip osteoarthritis
- 450,000 adults have a recorded diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis
- 1,600,000 people have recorded diagnoses of gout
- 90,000 adults are estimated to have psoriatic arthritis
- 60,000 adults have a recorded diagnosis of axial spondylarthritis
- 12,000 children have juvenile idiopathic arthritis
Symptoms and variability
Unusual or strenuous physical activities can cause aches and pains in your muscles and joints from time to time; however, there are differences between normal pain and stiffness and the early signs of arthritis. The symptoms of arthritis vary from person to person. But if you have arthritis, you will almost certainly have symptoms relating to your joints, such as:
- Swelling in a joint
- Redness and warmth in a joint
- Stiffness or reduced movement of a joint
Osteoarthritis symptoms often develop slowly and worsen over time. Signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis include:
- Pain – affected joints might hurt during or after movement.
- Stiffness – joint stiffness might be most noticeable upon wakening or after being inactive.
- Tenderness – joints might feel tender when you apply light pressure to or near them.
- Loss of flexibility – you might not be able to move your joint through its full range of motion.
- Grating sensation – you might feel a grating sensation when you use the joint, and you might hear popping or crackling.
- Bone spurs – these extra bits of bone, which feel like hard lumps, can form around the affected joint.
- Swelling – this might be caused by soft tissue inflammation around the joint.
Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic condition, meaning that it has an effect on the body as a whole, whereas osteoarthritis tends only to affect individual joints. Signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis may include:
- Tender, warm, swollen joints
- Joint stiffness that is usually worse in the mornings and after inactivity
- Fatigue, fever and loss of appetite
Early rheumatoid arthritis tends to affect your smaller joints first, particularly the joints that attach your fingers to your hands and your toes to your feet. As the disease progresses, symptoms often spread to the wrists, knees, ankles, elbows, hips and shoulders. In most cases, symptoms occur in the same joints on both sides of your body. Some sufferers also experience signs and symptoms that don’t involve the joints. Areas that may be affected include:
- Salivary glands
- Nerve tissue
- Bone marrow
- Blood vessels
Rheumatoid arthritis signs and symptoms may vary in severity and may even come and go. Periods of increased disease activity, called flares, alternate with periods of relative remission, when the swelling and pain fade or disappear. Over time, rheumatoid arthritis can cause joints to deform and shift out of place.
Gout is characterised by sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, redness and tenderness in one or more joints, most often in the big toe. An attack of gout can occur suddenly, often waking you up in the middle of the night with the sensation that your big toe is on fire. The affected joint is hot, swollen and so tender that even the weight of the bedsheet on it may seem intolerable. The signs and symptoms of gout almost always occur suddenly, and often at night. They include:
- Intense joint pain – gout usually affects the big toe, but it can occur in any joint. Other commonly affected joints include the ankles, knees, elbows, wrists and fingers. The pain is likely to be most severe within the first four to 12 hours after it begins.
- Lingering discomfort – after the most severe pain subsides, some joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks. Later attacks are likely to last longer and affect more joints.
- Inflammation and redness – the affected joint or joints become swollen, tender, warm and red.
- Limited range of motion – as gout progresses, you may not be able to move your joints normally.
Spondylarthritis is a group of diseases characterised by inflammation in the spine ‘spondylitis’ and joints ‘arthritis’. Symptoms of spondylarthritis vary between patients but may include:
- Longstanding low back pain
- Back stiffness
- Back pain and stiffness are typically worse at night and improve with exercise
- Painful swelling of joints
- Sausage-like appearance of fingers or toes
- Heel pain
- Skin and nail changes of psoriasis
- Episodes of eye inflammation (uveitis)
Psoriatic arthritis can affect joints on one or both sides of your body. The signs and symptoms of psoriatic arthritis often resemble those of rheumatoid arthritis. Both diseases cause joints to become painful, swollen and warm to the touch. However, psoriatic arthritis is more likely to also cause:
- Swollen fingers and toes – psoriatic arthritis can cause a painful, sausage-like swelling of your fingers and toes.
- Foot pain – psoriatic arthritis can also cause pain at the points where tendons and ligaments attach to your bones, especially at the back of your heel (Achilles tendinitis) or in the sole of your foot (plantar fasciitis).
- Lower back pain – some people develop spondylitis as a result of psoriatic arthritis.
- Nail changes – nails can form tiny dents and crumble or separate from the nail beds.
- Eye inflammation – uveitis can cause eye pain, redness and blurry vision. If untreated, uveitis can lead to vision loss.
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis can cause persistent joint pain, swelling and stiffness. Some children may experience symptoms for only a few months, while others have symptoms for many years. Like other forms of arthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis is characterised by times when symptoms flare up and times when symptoms may be minimal. The most common signs and symptoms of juvenile idiopathic arthritis are:
- Pain – while a child might not complain of joint pain, you may notice that they limp, especially first thing in the morning or after a nap.
- Swelling – joint swelling is common but is often first noticed in larger joints such as the knee.
- Stiffness – the child appears clumsier than usual, particularly in the morning or after naps.
- Fever, swollen lymph nodes and rash – in some cases, high fever, swollen lymph nodes or a rash on the trunk may occur, which is usually worse in the evenings.
Systemic lupus erythematosus – no two cases of lupus are exactly alike. Signs and symptoms may come on suddenly or develop slowly, may be mild or severe, and may be temporary or permanent. Most people with lupus have mild disease characterised by episodes called flares, when signs and symptoms get worse for a while, then improve or even disappear completely for a time. The signs and symptoms of lupus that you experience will depend on which body systems are affected by the disease. The most common signs and symptoms include:
- Joint pain, stiffness and swelling
- Butterfly-shaped rash on the face that covers the cheeks and bridge of the nose or rashes elsewhere on the body
- Skin lesions that appear or worsen with sun exposure
- Fingers and toes that turn white or blue when exposed to cold or during stressful periods
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Dry eyes
- Headaches, confusion and memory loss
Living with arthritis can be challenging for many people and carrying out everyday tasks that many others take for granted can be difficult for someone with arthritis, such as, but not limited to:
- Personal care – raising arms to wash or brush their hair, holding and using a toothbrush or razor, getting into and out of a bath, turning on taps and showers.
- Dressing – selecting clothing that is easy to put on and take off; fasteners such as buttons or zips can be problematic for someone with dexterity issues. Putting on socks or tights, even wearing tight clothing can be problematic because the pain in particular joints covered by the clothing can be intense.
- Meal preparation – opening tins, bottles or packaging, lifting kitchen equipment such as full kettles, saucepans etc. carrying plates or hot drinks, using kitchen equipment such as knives and graters, reaching into high cupboards or bending to access low cupboards.
- Around the home – using household equipment such as vacuum cleaners, dusters etc., opening and closing windows, turning keys in locks.
- At work – using work equipment whether office equipment such as a computer keyboard and mouse, industrial hand tools, or accessing ladders, steps or stairs. Even being seated or standing for long periods can exacerbate the condition.
These and many other challenges faced by people living with arthritis can be physically exhausting to carry out and this exhaustion disrupts their daily life. Lack of or disruptive sleep due to pain also contributes to this fatigue which can lead to increased inactivity, loss of muscle mass and weight gain, all of which can make arthritis symptoms worse. Having arthritis can increase a person’s risk of other health problems, such as heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease and chronic fatigue syndrome, all of which can be associated with fatigue.
Living with chronic pain and having reduced mobility or dexterity can also affect a person’s mental wellbeing. Feeling low can then lead to increased pain, creating a vicious cycle. Some people feel frustrated that they can’t easily do things that they used to be able to, which can lead to anger or depression; others can develop stress or anxiety when faced with tasks or activities that cause difficulty.
Impact on mobility
Mobility can be a problem for those with arthritis especially when there is active inflammation. Because of the nature of arthritis some people have difficulty walking, even for short distances. Others may experience difficulties sitting or standing for long periods. Those with severe rheumatoid arthritis find it particularly hard to get up in the morning, stand for any length of time, get out of chairs or kneel on the floor and find it difficult to get in and out of the bath.
Some people with arthritis find stairs or steps difficult and some people have a fear of falling, particularly if they couldn’t put their hands out to save themselves from a nasty fall or bump.
Driving can be a challenge for someone with arthritis, particularly steering and getting into and out of the vehicle. However, you only need to tell the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) about your arthritis if:
- It is affecting your ability to drive
- You use special controls for driving
Any disabilities you disclose to the DVLA will also need to be disclosed to your car insurance provider; it may make no difference to your insurance premium but may invalidate your policy if not disclosed.
Using public transport can bring its own set of challenges, such as finding it hard to climb on and off buses and trains. Others may find getting around stations or changing platforms a challenge. Being unable to stand for long periods presents problems when unable to get a seat on public transport. Whilst older people may be offered a seat by other passengers, this is seldom the case for younger people with arthritis as the disease is not particularly visible to others.
Arthritis can lead to muscle weakness and atrophy. If a person has weak muscles in a particular area of their body, such as their legs, it can make mobility, walking and running extremely difficult. This not only reduces exercise outdoors but also movement around the house. However, exercise is especially important for people with arthritis. Exercise increases strength, makes moving easier and helps fight tiredness. Even moderate exercise can ease and reduce joint pain and help a person to stay at a healthy weight. Exercises for arthritis might include exercises that put joints through their full range of motion and strengthening exercises. Exercise that raises heart rate, known as aerobic exercise, is also important.
Emotional and social impact
Having arthritis can take people through a range of emotions including:
- Shock – feeling surprised at receiving a diagnosis of a chronic disease.
- Confusion – feeling unsure what the diagnosis means.
- Anger – because aspects of your life have changed. You may feel angry at yourself for being ill or at others for not ‘fixing’ it or giving you more support.
- Frustration – because of persistent pain, reduced abilities and loss of control over life.
- Anxiety and fear – scared for the present and for what arthritis may bring in the future. This can be especially true if you have known someone who had severe arthritis.
- Loss – for things you can’t do anymore.
- Isolation – feeling isolated and detached from your family, friends and community when you can’t participate in the same way you used to.
- Helplessness – if you have to start relying on others to do things you used to do on your own.
- Guilt – at not being able to ‘pull your weight’ around the house or at work due to pain and fatigue.
- Jealousy or resentment – of friends or family members who can do things you want to be able to do.
- Embarrassment or shame – at reduced mobility or having to ask for help. You don’t want to draw attention to yourself and your reduced abilities or be reliant on others.
- Irritability – pain, fatigue, frustration and anxiety can make you irritable.
- Stress and tension – physical, financial, relationship and self-image challenges can cause you to feel tense and stressed.
- Sadness – feeling low because of what you are dealing with.
- Depression – experiencing a range of emotions because of your situation that are debilitating and affect your ability to function.
Arthritis pain can take a person away from doing the things that they have previously enjoyed, causing them to become short-tempered or withdraw from friends and family. It can be tempting to avoid telling friends and family about an arthritis diagnosis, not wanting to be treated differently or to stop being included in activities and events.
People with chronic pain are more vulnerable to social isolation, so being able to talk to someone about how you feel and any help that you may need will definitely be a benefit. Consider explaining your limitations to your social circle, but also let them know that you are still yourself. Be as open and honest as possible, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. When making plans with friends, you may need to alter the types of activities you participate in, but this can lead to enjoying new experiences.
There are a vast selection of assistive devices, adaptive tools and gadgets that can help to make daily tasks easier for someone living with arthritis, including but not limited to:
- Mobility aids such as wheelchairs, walking canes, walkers or scooters can help those with arthritis to be more independent.
- Home modifications such as grab rails, level-access showers, easy access baths, ramps and stairlifts help with mobility and independence.
- Smartphones now have voice activated features which include message dictation, web searches and hands-free phone calls. Voice activated software can be a good alternative to typing on a keyboard.
- Specially designed grips to help turn dials and knobs, and open bottles etc. They also make plugs easier to pull out; electric tin openers make opening tins easier.
- Zipper pulls and buttoning aids can help reduce hand strain when dressing and undressing.
- Flexible drinking straws to make it easier to sip drinks without lifting cups or glasses.
- Key turners can help with inserting and turning the key in the lock.
- For gardeners, using lightweight and easy grip tools and hoses, kneeler pads take the pressure off knees, or installing raised beds limits bending.
Developing relaxation and coping skills can help you maintain balance in your life, giving you a greater feeling of control over your arthritis and a more positive outlook.
One of the best, but sometimes the hardest, ways to manage arthritis pain is to manage body weight and adopt healthy lifestyle habits. A common misconception is that a painful joint requires rest; however, not enough movement can cause muscle weakness, worsening joint pain and stiffness. Activities such as walking, aerobics, yoga and Pilates can keep the joints limber and prevent arthritis pain from becoming worse. Physical activity strengthens the muscles and connective tissues around your joints, helping support joints that have been damaged by arthritis.
There is no conclusive evidence to suggest that what you eat can make arthritis either better or worse. However, being overweight can put excess strain on your joints. To work normally, your body needs food to supply energy, vitamins and minerals. Healthy eating will help you manage your weight and give you the energy to complete your daily activities, as well as promote a strong immune system and bone and tissue health.
Using heat and/or cold can help with arthritis symptoms. Heat is ideal for relieving pain, muscle spasms and tightness, and enhancing the range of motion. However, do not use heat on an already inflamed joint, as it can make symptoms worse. Cold is ideal for constricting blood flow to an inflamed joint and decreasing pain and swelling. A hot-water bottle filled with either hot or cold water and applied to the affected area can be very effective in reducing pain.
Relaxing the muscles around a sore joint helps to reduce pain. There are many ways to practise relaxation. Try meditation or deep breathing exercises. Try mindfulness, which is breathing deeply, remaining present in the moment, and noticing small details of your surroundings – sights, sounds, smells and sensations. Mindfulness means being present and grounded in the current moment rather than fixating on the past or future.
Access to healthcare
The treatment and medical support for people living with arthritis can vary depending upon the form of arthritis and a person might have to see several health professionals to look after all aspects of their care.
General Practitioners (GPs) are usually a person’s first port of call. You should see your GP if you have persistent symptoms of arthritis so that they can confirm the diagnosis and prescribe any necessary treatment. Treatments for the symptoms of arthritis may include:
- Lifestyle measures – such as maintaining a healthy weight and exercising regularly.
- Medication – to relieve pain.
- Supportive therapies – to help make everyday activities easier.
- Where other treatments have not been helpful, surgery to repair, strengthen or replace damaged joints may also be considered.
Your GP may refer you to a rheumatologist if you need further tests to confirm your diagnosis or you require more specialist treatment. A consultant rheumatologist is a doctor who specialises in diagnosing and treating arthritis and related conditions. Your rheumatologist will recommend treatment programmes. This may include drug treatments, which they may help monitor or carry out. They can also recommend that you see therapists for specialist advice, including:
Physiotherapists – these are healthcare professional who help you to remain active and independent. They are experts in:
- Assessing movement
- Addressing individual needs
- Helping to improve function through, for example, massage and/or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)
- Managing pain
- Occupational therapists – these are trained healthcare professionals who work with people to help them carry out everyday activities, to be able to work and to lead fulfilling lives. Many occupational therapists have specialist skills in treating people with arthritis. They can help you identify and obtain specialist equipment to help you get about and manage everyday tasks. Social Services occupational therapists are experts in home adaptations such as level-access showers and ramps. Workplace recommended occupational therapists are experts in workplace adaptations and reasonable adjustments.
- Podiatrists – these are experts on problems with the feet and ankles. Some specialise in problems caused by arthritis and related conditions. Podiatrists, sometimes called chiropodists, may work either in the NHS or in private clinics. They can help with problems such as corns, calluses and troublesome nails, and give advice and help with getting special shoes or insoles to correct foot deformities.
- Orthotist – they specialise in the use of devices (orthoses) to support weakened joints, correct deformities and reduce pain and strain when the affected joints are being used in everyday life. If you have complex needs you may require several meetings with an orthotist so that they can analyse and discuss with you how best to help you. The devices most commonly used by an orthotist in treating arthritis are special shoes or insoles for problems in the feet and legs, and splints for the hands and wrists.
- Neurologists – these are specialists in disorders of the nervous system. Some neurologists also have expertise in particular areas, such as the immune system.
- Orthopaedic surgeons – these specialise in surgical treatments for problems caused by disease and injury (trauma) in the bones, joints and other structures involved in making the body move, although most people with arthritis won’t need surgery. Some treatments offered by orthopaedic surgeons include:
– Joint replacements
– Surgical fusion of a joint
– Keyhole surgery to remove bone and cartilage debris
– Fixing of fractures resulting from injury or osteoporosis
– Repairs or reconstructions to tendons or ligaments
In addition to prescribed medication, over-the-counter topical treatments including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) creams can help to alleviate pain. There are also a variety of over-the-counter NSAIDs in tablet form which include ibuprofen which can treat inflammation. Other therapies often used to help manage arthritis symptoms include:
- Acupuncture – this is a traditional Chinese therapy that is said to help restore the body’s energy flow (Qi) by inserting thin needles into areas of the body that follow energy lines, known as meridians. Acupuncture is sometimes used to alleviate pain and treat various physical and mental health conditions. Acupuncture has been shown to yield anti-inflammatory effects and regulation of immune system function. However, there is limited research evidence regarding its impact on arthritis symptoms. Because of its low risk of harm, acupuncture combined with standard arthritis medication strategies may be beneficial in reducing pain and improving quality of life.
- Massage of muscles and other soft tissues by a registered massage therapist may help provide short-term relief of stiffness and pain. Other potential benefits include a reduction in stress and anxiety as well as improved mobility and overall function of the joints. However, there currently isn’t enough research evidence to suggest massage should be recommended for everyone managing arthritis symptoms. You should always consult your GP or rheumatologist to see if massage therapy is safe and appropriate for your form of arthritis.
There are a number of organisations in the UK that provide advice and support to those who suffer from arthritis and their families and friends who support them. These include:
Arthritis Action – a UK charity giving hands-on, practical help to improve the quality of life of people affected by arthritis. Telephone number: 020 3781 7120. WhatsApp number: 770 281 3737.
National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society (NRAS) – offering information and emotional support for people with rheumatoid arthritis. Helpline: 08002987650.
CCAA – this is a charity supporting children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) in England and Wales.
World Arthritis Day was established in 1996 by Arthritis and Rheumatism International (ARI) and aims not only to raise awareness, but also to improve the quality of life of people with arthritis and rheumatism, provide a forum for exchange of knowledge and experience among organisations of people affected by arthritis and rheumatism, and to strengthen their voice through worldwide cooperation. World Arthritis Day is celebrated each year on 12th October. People with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) from around the world can join together to make their voices heard on this day.


text:
LOS ANGELES (MarketWatch) -- Geron Corp. was among the biotech stocks whose shares jumped Friday evening following reports that a ban on government funding of embryonic stem-cell research will come to an end next week.
Geron GERN, +2.04% shares climbed 33% to $5.15 in heavy trading on news reports that President Barack Obama on Monday will sign an executive order overturning the ban that was put in place by President George W. Bush in 1991. The move would make good on a campaign pledge by Obama to lift the ban.
The new order would allow the National Institutes of Health to be able to consider requests from scientists who are seeking funds for stem-cell research, according to the Washington Post. Proponents of such research say it could lead to cures for numerous illnesses.
In late January, the Food and Drug Administration granted clearance to Geron to conduct the first human trial of an embryonic-stem cell treatment to treat spinal cord injuries.
Meanwhile, shares of General Motors Corp. GM, +2.44% rose 2.1% to $1.48 in low volume. Obama administration's automotive task force was due to meet late Friday, with members to discuss the restructuring plans from GM and privately held Chrysler. See full story.
Earlier this week, GM's auditor said it had doubts about the company being able to continue as a going concern. The company itself also reiterated its projection that it might have to file for bankruptcy protection if the viability plan that it submitted to Congress were to fail. GM has asked the U.S. for up to $30 billion in loans.
Ford Motor M, +2.53% shares rose 1.2% to $1.72.
U.S. stocks bounced back from their lows of the session. The Dow Jones Industrial Average DJIA, +0.79% gained 0.5% to 6,626.94 and the S&P 500 Index SPX, +0.86% gained 0.1% to 638. The Nasdaq Composite COMP, +0.73% lost 0.4% to end at 1,293.85.
Stocks spent much of the session in negative territory after the U.S. Labor Department reported nonfarm payrolls dropped by 651,000 in February, slightly higher than economists had expected but lower than the 750,000 to 800,000 some had feared. See Market Snapshot.

domain: news


text:
Hey everyone – how’s it going? Thanks for dropping by.
Today it’s going to be a singular post about my latest shop listing in Old Raven on Etsy. Check it out.
This is a set of six Carnival Glass berry bowls. Being solidly in the ‘older generation’ I knew at a glance what these were when I spotted them on a thrift store shelf. But, I suspect, there might be a few ‘younger generation’ folk out there that may not have been introduced to the beauty of Carnival Glass yet.
What is Carnival Glass? The single most unifying factor is that crazy wild iridescent glaze that looks like plain glass on an acid trip. I mean WOW – right? And what’s really wild…this stuff was made from 1908 to about 1925.
In a nutshell, this is ‘pressed’ glass to make the shape and then while it’s still hot, an application of metallic salts is applied and then the piece is fired one last time bringing out the ‘oil slick’ appearance of the glaze.
Each piece seems to have its own personality, too, as the glaze can inexplicably vary from one piece to the next.
And then there is the underlying color of the original glass itself. My berry bowls are ‘amethyst’, a soft purple color. I’ve put a flashlight underneath a bowl here so you can see the color clearly.
This is how they look without the bright light shining from beneath. But now you can really see the glaze again – isn’t this just the most amazing glass technique you’ve ever seen?
But why “Carnival” glass? This name really didn’t come about until the 1950’s and is a bit misleading. It’s true, some Carnival glass pieces originally were given out as prizes at carnivals and fairs – but the vast majority were not. They were purchases made by the hard working middle class of America who wanted to bring some exotic beauty into their homes.
Though Carnival Glass started out as “Iridill” by Fenton and was originally a product aimed at the wealthy, when it failed that market Fenton downshifted and began producing it for the ‘common’ class where such things as bubbles in the glass and little imperfections, were not fussed over but happily overlooked so that these bright cheerful beauties could be displayed in the darkest corner and still gleam in the barest light as many homes then did not have the brilliant light of electricity yet.
These berry bowls were made by Imperial in the Zippered Heart pattern. There were many companies and many, many patterns of Carnival Glass. The ‘base’ glass colors could be clear or variants on amethyst, blue, green red and amber. Fenton alone, produced over 150 patterns of Iridill. But by the late 1920’s, Carnival/Iridill Glass had run its course.
But it has certainly left a lasting legacy of beauty with a huge variety of colors and styles of pieces that range from purely decorative to items that can be used for serving, storing or displaying everything from water to delicacies.
The prices cover the same ranges, too. While you might find a piece at a yard sale for 75¢ – you could also pony up thousands for a rare piece (and sometimes those are the same thing so keep an eye out).
But for me, I’m very happy with my thrift store find and you can find it too – just follow the link to Old Raven to either fill in this missing set in your collection…or get started with your new collection now.
Thanks, as always, for joining me today. Stay Safe – Kriss

domain: design


text:
Dr. Reza Arabnia
Caveliere del Lavoro
President & CEO
The oldest of five children, Ali Reza Arabnia was born in Tehran, Iran, in 1955, from a family with over 100 years of business tradition and culture in the construction industry.
His work experience at Geico, company of the Gecofin Group, of which he is today the Chairman, began in the ’80s when he became first financial officer at a branch in Nigeria and, soon afterwards, Managing Director. Until the beginning of the ’90s, Dr. Arabnia was at the head of several companies; in 1994, through a management buy-out, he bought the company Gecofin together with his wife Laura Neri.
In 2005, he bought Geico from Comau-Fiat and, in only five years, managed to turn around the company, which was then undergoing a period of crisis, and bring it to be one of the world leaders in plant engineering for the auto sector.
In 2011, he signed an alliance with Taikisha, asserting Geico's leadership in car coating systems in all national markets, with the exception of Japan and Korea. The Geico-Taikisha Group, with a 1.8 billion dollar turnover, has a global presence with over 50 production locations in 23 countries and over 5.000 employees,
Always strongly focused on innovation and integration of new technologies, in 2009 Geico opened the R&D Pardis Innovation Centre, expanded later in 2013, today considered the most avant-garde technology pole of the car coating system sector.
A firm supporter of the value and the welfare of the workers, Dr. Arabnia has devoted to them an indoor space of over 2,000 sqm, Laura’s Garden of Thoughts, and created a company school, the Campus Pippo Neri, in honour of his father-in-law, the founder of the company, for their professional development.
He also is the founder of J-Next, a group of young company employees whose objective is to give a contribution not only to the company but also to the community. The concept of social responsibility and of the role of business owners and companies at the local level is deeply rooted in Dr. Arabnia: hence his involvement in charitable activities and the establishment of Pardis Foundation.
He is a member of the board of directors of several manufacturing, academic, and non-profit organisations, and in 2014 was bestowed the title of Knight of Labour.

domain: economics


I really like the memory seats ... but the bluetooth audio works really well and sounds great.
I know I had to fiddle with the tone setting, but now the sound quality of my iPhone through bluetooth audio seems every bit as good as USB or CD ... and much better than FM.One thing I noticed is that each mode(cd, bta, fm etc) has it's own saved tone settings. So it's not a set it and forget it type of system. I had to go and individually calibrate each mode to my liking. I don't know if that would make a difference for you.


text:
Peaches and Cream
This painting depicts a prancing horse in an abstracted and impossible space. As if guided by the figure's movement, the lush and curving cloudscape delicately caresses the figure. This painting expresses emotional intelligence and masculinity through its elongated curves and soft gaze—revealing an unexpected tenderness. Vibrant yet gentle, the artist’s compositions challenge our preconceptions of identity, gender and the body.
② Represented by:
Asif Hoque paintings are creolized sagas, combining fragments of his Bangladeshi heritage with his life in Italy and the US. The artist’s composition and use of paint are deeply informed by his fascination with the classical arts. Hoque’s autobiographical and mythological works create in-between spaces that merge the contemporary with the ancient—as they address the vulnerability of multi-cultural identity.

domain: artistic


text:
Antiviral Methods and Protocols 2nd Edition Pdf is written by Peggy Geluykens, Koen Van Acker, Johan Vingerhoets, Christel Van den Eynde (auth.), Edwin Yunhao Gong (eds.) that you can download for free in pdf file format. Although antiviral medications have been successfully grown for several viral diseases, there is a clear, unmet medical necessity to come up with novel anti inflammatory agents for the management and control of several viruses that now have limited or no treatment choices in addition to a necessity to overcome the constraints linked to the present antiviral medications, such as adverse effects and development of drug-resistant mutations.All chapters are all brand new and composed by specialists in the area, representing the significant recent technological advances in antiviral discovery and research.
This edition concentrates on a lot of significant human viruses, including human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1), hepatitis viruses (hepatitis C and B viruses), herpes viruses, human respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and flu virus, while also containing some significant emerging viruses, like dengue virus, West Nile virus, along with chikungunya virus. For a quantity in the highly effective Approaches in Molecular Biology collection, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the essential materials and reagents, incremental, easily reproducible lab protocols, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Comprehensive and cutting-edge, Antiviral Methods and Protocols, Second Edition will function as a superb lab reference for academic and pharmaceutical biologists, medicinal chemists, and pharmacologists in addition to for virologists in the business of antiviral research and drug discovery.

domain: library


Allow some of the High Street to die, says report
Some of Britain’s ailing High Streets should be allowed to die if others are going to recover, according to a report by a property expert.
Ian Anderson, senior director at one of the country’s biggest retail property advisers CBRE, said planning rules should be relaxed to help some town centres back on their feet, but warned that others might be better off failing.
Anderson said a new strategy was needed, starting with an urgent relaxation of laws that restrict the use of High Street shops.
This would allow more flexible use of former retail outlets, including converting space for housing or leisure.
He also said reforms were needed to encourage more parking and at cheaper rates.
However, he added: ‘It might be that authorities need to judge which areas need to live and which ones need to die. But show me a politician who would vote for a death of their town centre.’
The report says town centre managers need to be able to take a more proactive role to attract visitors with events and markets.
Some benefit from consumers cutting down on shopping trips and spending more in fewer destinations.
Most watched Money videos
- Renault 5 EV prototype will look like the 1980s rally car
- Will Britain's rapid vaccine rollout boost UK shares?
- 1972 Lamborghini Miura SV sold for 11% above market value
- Can Scottish Mortgage keep climbing? Tom Slater interview
- Porsche's eFuel could dramatically cut CO2 emissions of cars
- Mercedes announces smart home system to control home from your car
- Hyundai develops autonomous vehicle that walks across terrains
- Land Rover Defender pulls transporter carrying seven SUVs
- Chinese Nio ET7 electric family car costing £60,000
- All-New Dacia Sandero supermini will hit UK market later this year
- Nissan unveils all new Qashqai SUV, made in Sunderland
- Nick Train interview: There's plenty to be optimistic about


text:
Apostle Islands Lighthouses
There are several historic lighthouses on Lake Superior on or near the Apostle Islands in Wisconsin. Six of these lighthouses, all in the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, were listed as a group on the National Register of Historic Places in 1977 under the name Apostle Islands Lighthouses.
Apostle Islands Lighthouses
The original Michigan Island light, one of the six lighthouses listed
|Nearest city||Bayfield, Wisconsin|
|Architect||U.S. Lighthouse Service|
|NRHP reference No.||77000145 |
|Added to NRHP||March 8, 1977|
The lighthouses are generally located at the edge of the group of islands, as beacons to guide shipping through and around the islands. The need for guidance increased in 1855 when the Soo Locks opened, connecting Lake Superior to the St. Lawrence Seaway to the east. Shipping also increased as Duluth-Superior grew, and with the opening of Ashland's first ore dock in 1886.
The Apostle Islands lighthouses are popular among tourists. Lighthouse historian Terry Pepper has described them as "one of the more interesting geographically centered collection of [lighthouse] structures" in the United States. Another lighthouse historian, F. Ross Holland, has called them "the largest and finest single collection of lighthouses in the country."
The following lighthouses were included in the 1977 National Register listing:
- Michigan Island Lighthouse 1857 (Two lighthouses located at this site)
- Raspberry Island Lighthouse 1862
- Outer Island Lighthouse 1874
- Sand Island Light 1881
- Devils Island Lighthouse 1891
Other lighthouses are in the area, but are not included in the Apostle Islands Lighthouses listing:
- La Pointe Lighthouse and Chequamegon Point Lighthouse (listed together as the La Pointe Light Station, #83003366)
- Ashland Harbor Breakwater Lighthouse - In the vicinity, but not technically in the Apostle Islands.
- Gull Island Light, Gull Island
Major restoration projects were initiated at several of the lighthouses of the Apostle Islands in 2013.
- "National Register Information System". National Register of Historic Places. National Park Service. January 23, 2007.
- "Lighthouses of the Apostles". Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. National Park Service. Retrieved December 15, 2013.
- Herschel L.D. Parnes (1976-05-26). "National Register of Historic Places Registration: Apostle Islands Lighthouses". National Park Service. Retrieved 2018-04-15. With 12 photos.
- Jones, Meg (September 21, 2013). "$7 million project keeps Apostle Islands lighthouses shining". Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.
- "Michigan Island Light". Wisconsin Historical Society. Retrieved 2018-04-15.
- "Raspberry Island Light". Wisconsin Historical Society. Retrieved 2018-04-15.
- "Outer Island Light". Wisconsin Historical Society. Retrieved 2018-04-15.
- "Sand Island Light". Wisconsin Historical Society. Retrieved 2018-04-15.
- "Devil's Island Light". Wisconsin Historical Society. Retrieved 2018-04-15.
- NPS - Inventory of Historic Light Stations - Wisconsin
- Rowlett, Russ. "Lighthouses of the United States: Northern Wisconsin". The Lighthouse Directory. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
- "Historic Light Station Information and Photography: Wisconsin". United States Coast Guard Historian's Office. Archived from the original on 2017-05-01.
- Pepper, Terry. "Seeing the Light: Lighthouses on the western Great Lakes". Archived from the original on 2008-01-30.
- Busch, Jane (2008) People and Places: A Human History of the Apostle Islands. National Park Service.
- Havighurst, Walter (1943) The Long Ships Passing: The Story of the Great Lakes, Macmillan Publishers.
- Oleszewski, Wes, Great Lakes Lighthouses, American and Canadian: A Comprehensive Directory/Guide to Great Lakes Lighthouses, (Gwinn, Michigan: Avery Color Studios, Inc., 1998) ISBN 0-932212-98-0.
- Wright, Larry and Wright, Patricia, Great Lakes Lighthouses Encyclopedia Hardback (Erin: Boston Mills Press, 2006) ISBN 978-1-55046-399-6.

domain: geography


text:
Grammar Games + Math is a set of stations that are geared to let students put the skills they have learned to the test while being able to move around in a game-like atmosphere. Students will work with a partner or team to complete the tasks at each station.
Sort It Out!
Ten More, Ten Less
Greater Than, Less Than, Equal To

domain: game


text:
The first spawning cycle of 2018 is coming to a close on the middle Ocklawaha River near Ocala. Although all the Largemouths don’t spawn at the same time, most of the Bass we have caught recently have spawned out, and they are hungry.
Lots of 3 to 5 pound fish with the occasional wall hanger has been the norm over our last few trips, and the bite continues to improve. I expect this trend to continue over the next month or so.
Best bite time has been early until about 10 a.m., depending on the weather. Great time to book a trip before the summer is on us!


text:
Fha Current Interest Rate Mortgage Interest Rate forecast for september 2020. maximum interest rate 4.02%, minimum 3.68%. The average for the month 3.82%. The 30 Year Mortgage Rate forecast at the end of the month 3.90%. 30 year mortgage Rate forecast for October 2020. Maximum interest rate 4.08%, minimum 3.84%. The average for the month 3.95%.Who Qualifies As A First Time Home Buyer Eligibility – The Maryland Mortgage Program – Maryland.gov – To be able to apply for a home loan through the Maryland Mortgage Program, First-Time Homebuyers who meet household income limits (see next section).
The FHA makes no loans, nor does it plan or build houses. The FHA’s website discusses the reasons why Congress created the agency: Congress created the federal housing administration (FHA) in 1934. When the FHA was created, the housing industry was flat on its back: Two million construction workers had lost their jobs. An FHA insured loan is a US Federal Housing Administration mortgage insurance.
That could affect several major housing markets at once. As it stands, after major natural disasters, mortgage servicers follow guidelines from Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and the FHA, which own or insure.
The Why Fha Was Created – Lakelachamber – – The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) was created in 1934 and was built to protect lenders and reduce lending risk. Since lenders had become extremely cautious about lending since the Great Depression, this was severely hindering economic growth.
“We need as many sales tools as we can have these days, and it’s one more tool.” The FHA, created in 1934 to make homeownership attainable for low- to moderate-income Americans, is now providing a.
The FHA was created to oversee mortgages, to set standardized terms and rates to mortgages, and therefore to make it possible for more Americans to once again own homes. The policies of the Federal.
FHA, the Federal Housing Administration. So VA loans are housing’s hot product, but why? Lots of reasons: VA-guaranteed mortgages come with terms that no other financing source can match : zero down.
Loans must meet certain requirements established by FHA to qualify for insurance. If you live in the Lewiston & Auburn, Brunswick and Augusta area call East.
Joining me to talk more about this issue, some of the policies that created it, and potential policies. the Homestead Act and the FHA are two, to do them differently this time. I think that’s why.
The federal housing administration (fha) is a U.S. government agency that provides mortgage insurance to qualified, FHA-approved lenders.. The legislation created two agencies, Why buying a house today is so much harder than in 1950 – created the modern mortgage market.
History. Henry G. Cisneros is named Secretary of HUD by President William J. Clinton, January 22. Empowerment Zone and Enterprise Community program becomes law as part of the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1993.
Fha Lenders In My Area If you are not able to sign on to the FHA Connection, please contact the FHA Resource Center at (800) callfha [(800) 225-5342], or send an e-mail message to SFADMIN@hud.gov and they will be able to determine who in your company is an fha connection application coordinator. They will need your company’s ten digit lender ID to look up the.

domain: finance


text:
Organic & Eco-Friendly Food
We are all part of the environment so supporting organic agriculture doesn’t just benefit you, it helps the whole world. For the vast majority of human history, agriculture has been organic. Only now has a large supply of new synthetic chemicals and genetic modification been introduced to the food supply. If this conventional methods are a concern to you then consuming organic and eco-friendly food should be a priority. Organic foods are now regularly found in grocery stores. Unfortunately your scope of options are still limited. Here at Living Organic we have collected some great sources of organic and eco-friendly food for you. Find a great deal on the available items from the Organic & Eco-Friendly Food categories listed below.
Earth’s Best Organic Baby Food Jars are available in unique combinations of fruits, veggies, meat and wholesome grains. Pick the appropriate texture and ingredient based on your baby’s age: Stage 1 jars are for 4 months +, Stage 2 for 6 months + and Stage 3 for 9 months +. All Earth’s Best jars are USDA Organic and contain no artificial flavors, colors or preservatives. The glass jars are fully recyclable and contain a Non-BPA resealable lid.
Peter Rabbit Organics snacks are ideal for babies from 6 months plus and toddlers. They contain nothing but 100 percent USDA Certified Organic fruit. The convenient squeezable pouch is re-sealable and does not need to be chilled, which makes them a great snack for children that can be eaten anywhere. We never add water, so each pouch counts as one of your child’s Five a day.
Sprout Stage 3 Creamy Vegetables with Chicken Organic Baby Food is made with whole, organic vegetables and chicken. Sprout Stage 3 purees provide more complex flavor combinations to satisfy your little sprout's growing appetite and developing taste preferences, and are ideal for babies who are trying new textures. Certified organic and made with non-GMO ingredients, Sprout Organic Baby Food contains no concentrates, additives, preservatives, or fillers of any kind – only real, honest, and pure ingredients.
Our #1 selling flavor, Spirulina never disappoints with its high nutrition profile and sweet taste. Be a green goddess! Each Raw Rev Organic Spirulina Dream bar is packed with high quality plant-based protein and nutrient-dense whole foods. With 7 grams of vegan protein, 3 grams of fiber, no trans-fats, and no hydrogenated oils, Raw Rev has raised the bar on nutrition and taste. Raw Rev proudly strives to offer the world's most nutrient-dense products which are affordable, minimally processed, sustainable, and bursting with flavor. Raw Rev Organic bars are always: gluten free, vegan, kosher, non-GMO and are free from soy-isolates, corn and artificial ingredients. Believe in the power of nuts and seeds! Ingredients: Organic Cashews, Organic Dates, Organic Sunflower Seed Kernels, Organic Agave Nectar, Organic Almonds, Organic Spirulina Powder, Organic Sprouted Flax Seed.

domain: food


text:
Baby Doll Jigsaw is an online game that you can play for free. If you are a baby doll entusiast or like a jigsaw puzzle, don't miss this jigsaw game. The game contains 12 pictures to choose from, the game difficulty is divided into low, medium and high. You are free to enjoy your puzzle time because the game has no time limit. Have fun with Jigsaw Puzzles. Baby Doll Jigsaw is one of the amazing free games in friu.net. Try Baby Doll Jigsaw and Pick your best Friu game in the awesome long list with no charges.🎮 Instructions
Use Left Mouse button to Play📂 Categories
puzzle, memory, arcade, baby, kids, kidspuzzles, kids, jigsaw..

domain: hobby


text:
Detroit Lions undecided on resigning Nick Fairley
INDIANAPOLIS -- The Detroit Lions are still weighing whether to resign former Auburn defensive tackle Nick Fairley.
Detroit declined to exercise the fifth-year club option in Fairley's contract and he was having a good start to the season prior to injury, with 14 tackles in eight games.
Lions general manager Martin Mayhew said there has not been a decision as to resign Fairley, as the club is still trying to reach a long-term deal with fellow defensive tackle NdamukongSuh, which affects the "vast majority" of the club's decision making at the position.
"We'll discuss Nick's situation," Mayhew said. "There's a lot of guys like that in free agency right now; we're in dialogue with about all those guys. It's a matter of setting some priorities and understanding there's some tradeoffs that have to happen. …
"A lot of it revolves around Suh. I could see a scenario however where we have Suh and Nick back, but I can also see a scenario where we have neither one of them."
Lions defensive coordinator Teryl Austintold the team's website he felt Fairley "turned a corner" this season.

domain: sports


text:
Actress Dakore Egbuson-Akande has been announced as the face of MTN XtraValue .
Speaking at the launch, Dakore said: “I think the XtraValue package was made just for me, as it helps me manage my busy schedule whenever I travel. I really love the roaming feature as it means I can use the same line in different countries at an affordable cost.
MTN Nigeria’s Chief Marketing Officer, Rahul De, said the tariff plan was revamped “to give customers optimal experience and value for money. XtraValue did quite well when it was first launched in May 2016 and we saw the need to optimize the experience and improve the value offered to customers.
“We did this by introducing new functionalities such as roaming to ensure greater customer experience on the plan. This relaunch is in furtherance of MTN’s commitment to delivering tailor-made offerings that meet our subscribers’ needs.”


Seo In Guk releases the full PV for his new Japanese single 'Hug' which is the title track of his 1st Japanese mini album with the same title.
The PV shows various clips of people in various settings. Seo In Guk is singing with his soft voice and seems like narrating the story through the song's lyrics.
His first mini album 'Hug' will be released in Japan on June 25. Watch below:


text:
After roughly 9 months of terrible planning and anticipation it was finally time for Europe. That intro sounds a lot like an unplanned baby but I swear it’s just my OCD for organisation felt like I had done zero preparation for 4.5 weeks in foreign countries. An adventure where we had only really thought of the beginning and for the first time in my life I had not created a hundred page to do list. It had been almost two years since our last grand adventure and boy did I need to get away! These reflections are all about sharing our travel adventures but also how I manage to stay fit and eat healthy food whilst I travel. So without further a ado our first stop; London.
Our travel to Europe seemed particularly easy with small stop overs and the luxury of an AirBus from Melbourne to London, stopping in Abu Dhabi. Lucky for me I suck at sleeping on planes so got all of 3-4 hours sleep before we arrived in London at around 2:30pm. I felt absolutely disgusting having not showered or and barely slept for around 30 hours, but just like most capital cities outside of Australia the public transport is incredibly easy to navigate and we arrived seamlessly to Shoreditch, a hip suburb on London’s outskirts. While we waited for our AirBnB host Ryan was starving and we visited a local treasure, Cafe 12, with hearty food laid out on the window sill. The owner was friendly and welcoming for our first stop in London, let alone Europe. We shared pasta and salad in the balcony garden before heading to our apartment. Once in our AirBnB we decided a walk would be great to stretch our legs and explore our new suburb. Characterised by clustered apartments, cobbled streets, beautiful parks and great looking coffee shops we knew we would love our choice of home away from home. Our lengthy walk on the canal allowed us to really get a taste for the quirky suburb, and we even stumbled across a cute little cafe, “Little Georgia’s”, a name I might have to steal when I open up my own cafe back home. The afternoon sun light helped keep us awake, but we soon crashed at around 8:30pm.
For our first day in London I decided a run to explore the suburb was exactly what was needed. It was a bustling early morning and I stumbled across a beautiful park and even more canals.
Whilst I ran Ryan walked and found us a breakfast/coffee spot before our train into the city. He hit the jackpot with a quaint Scandinavian bakery, Fabrique, with coffee and rye breakfast rolls, I was in heaven. High five to Ryan.
We caught the overground into the city for what was going to be a massive day. With little planning other than to see the sights, and only two full days to explore the city itself we started with the Tower Bridge and simply worked our way from there. We were blessed with sunshine as we explored our way along the Tems through bustling streets and landmarks including the Tower of London, St Paul’s Cathedral, Trafalgar Square, Westminster Abbey, Palace of Westminster, Buckingham Palace, Green Park and St James Park.
Funnily enough we found a ‘Twinnings’ tea bar which we thought was odd as you can buy these quite readily in Australian supermarkets, but their range was extensive to say the least.
Having already seen several landmarks we were famished for some healthy grub. We stumbled across a small courtyard of food vans where we feasted on Lebanese cuisine.
Fuelled for a busy afternoon we hired some bikes and rode through Hyde Park and Kensington gardens. A little annoying that you can only ride in some areas and others you must walk but we covered a fair bit of ground visiting sculptures such as the London bombing and Princess Diana memorials. We also relished in the huge amount of dogs we ran into. After a massive day we headed back to our accommodation before venturing out for dinner of gourmet burgers and sweet potato chips. Exhausted, we hit the hay having clocked up over 45,000 steps on day one.
Day two was a drizzly day, much more London in character. Again I started the day with some exercise, this time a park circuit with body weight exercises, bands and sprints. I was able complete most under the shelter of a tree but still managed to get saturated. We were a little less boisterous on day two having probably bit off more than we could chew on day one. Again, we started the day with coffee and a roll from our trusty bakery before heading to the Imperial War Museum. One of my favourite parts of travelling is the museums, particularly those focusing on wars as you get a different insight to the story you are told by your home country. Following the war museum we headed to the busy Borough Markets for grub. I feasted on a lamb bowl whilst Ryan ate a humongous pulled pork sandwhich with bacon and haloumi.
The English are apparently fond of fudge, so we treated ourselves to some homemade delicacies and a veggie juice of course. It’s all about balance. Our final stop for the miserably wet day was the London Eye. I’m somewhat afraid of heights so was a little uneasy hopping on a floating clear egg, but it was enjoyable once I got over my fear of breaking away from the carrousel. The view of London was well worth the momentary anxiety.
To say we were pretty tired by the afternoon would be an understatement, we trudged back to Shoreditch for a quick rest only to change and head to dinner and a show on the West End. We found a local Korean restaurant where Ryan popped his Bibimbap cherry before heading to Wicked. Having bought the tickets a little late we were left with seats second from the back. It made for an interesting view point especially as I had to continually shuffle back and forth to see past tall lady’s with outrageously puffy hair. The show was fantastic and a great ending to our busy second day. Late to bed we went before having to get up early for our last full day in England.
Day three was an early start before jumping on our tour bus to Windsor Castle, Bath and Stonehenge. Our breakfast was on the go egg and bean cups from chain restaurant, Leon, which was surprisingly good. Armed with an average coffee we fuelled up for a long day of driving. Windsor Castle was the first stop on our tour and despite the tourists we quite enjoyed the experience. As we are not die hard Royal Family fans we simply admired the architecture and the odd inter-relationship between a town balancing tourism and general small town activities.
After our time in Windsor our next stop was Bath. Bath has a long history of a variety of settlers from the Romans to the Anglo Saxons and it seems everyone in between. I won’t bore you with the history but basically the town is built around naturally occurring hot springs, hence the name Bath. These hot springs were rumoured to hold healing powers having healed a previous heir to the British thrown of Leprosy. The City is UNESCO World Heritage listed for it’s breathtaking architecture, stunning scenery and ofcourse these magical hot springs. It really lived up to the hype. We made the most of our short stop, marvelling at the architecture, as well as finding a hidden gem of a cafe where we filled ourselves up with delicious food.
The first half of our long tour day we had been blessed with some English sunshine, but our luck soon began to run out. Our next stop was the famous rock formation Stonehenge, which was around 2-3 hours drive. Once we finally arrived it was raining and freezing cold. For some reason Ryan and I forgot to bring our warm/weather proof coats but we braved the weather regardless. To maintain the integrity of the monument cars park around 1km away and you then catch a shuttle to arrive around 200m from the rocks. As we shuttled to the rocks the rain turned torrential and our piddly travel umbrella seemed a little useless as we tried as much as possible to stay covered through the sideways rain. Stonehenge is another awe inspiring monument considering it was constructed in pre-historic times. Despite the wonder of this monument we lasted all of five minutes, experiencing the true wet, English country side. As you can see from the below photo I wasn’t too keen on sharing the umbrella.
Our tour ended with a long 3 hour drive home to London. We treated ourselves to heavenly sourdough pizza before heading back to our apartment to pack our bags. London/England was a terrific start to our journey, we only wish we had an extra day or two to enjoy the Sunday markets and explore further.
London was an easy place to find healthy options. With a range of chain restaurants, local eateries and a strong interest in fresh, local produce a healthy meal is never far away. As with most places in Europe, day tours are a great way to see the sites outside of the CBD. We packed some healthy snacks from the supermarket such as veggie sticks, fruit and popcorn so we didn’t have to rely on the expensive or unhealthy options at the tourist sites. London is easy and simple to navigate by public transport and by foot, so use this opportunity to get your body moving. I also love to run in new locations as it allows you to explore all the hidden nooks and crannies you might not have seen. If you have a bad sense of direction load your maps on your phone with wifi first, pinning your starting point, so you can back track if need.
The next stop on our adventure was Iceland, an odd choice for a holiday but one Ryan and I were super keen to see. Keep your eyes peeled for the next instalment as I share with you the breathtaking photos and of course my food from this up and coming tourist hot spot.
Peace, Love and Food xx

domain: travel


Turn physical objects into their three-dimensional (3D) representations, without any contact. Whether you are an industrial engineer looking for a powerful reverse-engineering solution, or a doctor seeking an efficient way to create prosthetics, 3D scanning is your key to success.Book a Consultation
Reverse engineering services and 3D scanning technologies have become essential in many industries. These technologies allow companies to take an existing product and create a digital model of it, which can then be used for a variety of purposes such as product development, quality control, and manufacturing.
With these technologies, companies can understand how a product works, identify design flaws, and create new products based on existing designs. Additionally, 3D scanning can also be used for quality control, ensuring that products are manufactured to the correct specifications.Learn more
The quick answer is anyone in manufacturing, engineering, design, development, surveying or testing. 3D scanning technology can be applied at any point in a typical manufacturing cycle, saving time, money and material.
3D scanning results in higher quality, better fitting parts that are less costly to manufacture. The cost of a typical manufacturing design cycle is reduced by 75% by utilizing 3D scanning.
Accelerate the time-to-market with your product development workflows, all while helping you meet your quality control requirements in non-contact 3D measurements. Discover how 3D scanners can help you gain a competitive edge, cut the time and costs associated with product development, and optimize production processes.
AutoScan-DS-EX Pro is a multi-functional 3D dental scanner independently developed and manufactured by SHINING 3D, specializing in data capturing for dental restoration, orthodontics and implantology. Compact and powerful, the upgraded...
EINSTAR, an affordable handheld 3D scanner, makes high-quality 3D data available to everyone. In the standard package you will find a handheld 3D scanner with Exstar software, and a lightweight carrying case which includes a series of accessories: a silicone case, introductory user guide, positioning markers, cloth to wipe the lens, a carrying strap, power supply and USB cable.
Start 3D scanning at ease today with Einstar.Shop now
3D Scanners, Professional 3D Scanners, Software & Support
EinScan focuses on the 3D digitizing and 3D printing technology, from 3D digitizing, 3D modeling and inspection to 3D Printing and rapid manufacturing.Reconditioned 3D Scanners
Join our hands-on 3D Scanner training program to master the fundamentals and techniques of 3D scanning technology. Led by experienced instructors, this course covers operating scanners, capturing accurate data, processing point clouds, and generating high-quality 3D models, providing essential skills for both beginners and seasoned professionals.
Join our 3D scanner training program to gain expertise in operating scanners, capturing data accurately, and generating high-quality 3D models.
Explore the world of Shining3D through our comprehensive training program, where you can gain practical skills and in-depth knowledge of Shining3D technologies.
Our training packages will take you from a complete novice to a 3D printing expert.
Don't get left behind, please select an available date and time from the calendar link below
and complete the contact form to book onto a training course.
As one of the largest 3D printing distributors in the UK & Ireland, we sell some of the most advanced printers from leading industry manufacturers. Not only do we have top-of-the-range 3D printers, we also supply cleaning kits, filaments and accessories etc…Buy Now
We stock all spare parts and pieces for a range of advanced 3D Printers. If there is a part or piece you can not find on our website, don't hesitate to contact us, as we most likely will have it in stock...
Our courses are designed to take you from complete novice to an expert user of 3D Printers, 3D Scanners, Software and materials. Being able to install, operate and solve technical issues without the need for a technician...Click Here


Stories tagged: Whitworth
SATURDAY, NOV. 21, 2015, 9:40 P.M.
Men’s basketball: Jurlina, Pirates rout Northwest
Christian Jurlina scored 20 points and the Whitworth men’s basketball team opened up a 27-point first-half lead and eased past Northwest 84-54 in a nonconference game Saturday in Spokane. Derek …
SATURDAY, NOV. 21, 2015, 6:04 P.M.
Whitworth’s successful football season ends with playoff loss at Linfield
Whitworth’s football team rolled over nine opponents this year on the way to one of the best seasons in school history. In Saturday’s first-round Division III playoff game against Northwest …
FRIDAY, NOV. 20, 2015, 10:36 P.M.
Men’s basketball: Whitworth holds off each Caltech rally
Kenny Love scored 19 points and George Valle added 15 points and nine rebounds Friday to carry third-ranked Whitworth (2-0) to an 80-58 victory over visiting Caltech in nonconference play …
FRIDAY, NOV. 20, 2015, 10:17 P.M.
Women’s basketball: Washington State improves to 3-0
Freshman Borislava Hristova scored 23 points and added seven rebounds Friday as Washington State improved to 3-0 with a 70-57 victory over Nevada (0-3) in the opening game of the …
TUESDAY, NOV. 17, 2015, 6:41 P.M.
Whitworth’s George Valle earns NWC weekly award
Whitworth senior forward George Valle was named Northwest Conference men’s basketball student-athlete of the week
SATURDAY, NOV. 14, 2015, 10:03 P.M.
Men’s soccer: Whitworth eliminated from division III tournament
Redlands erased a 2-0 second-half deficit and stunned the Whitworth men’s soccer team 3-2 in overtime in an NCAA Division III tournament first-round match Saturday in San Antonio. The match-winner …
SATURDAY, NOV. 14, 2015, 9:08 P.M.
Whitworth caps 9-1 football season with 47-19 victory over Lewis & Clark
The Whitworth Pirates raced to a 37-point lead Saturday and then cruised to a 47-19 win over Lewis & Clark to secure nine wins for only the fifth time since …
SATURDAY, NOV. 14, 2015, 7:30 P.M.
Cross country: Roiko leads Whitworth women to third place
Led by Kellyn Roiko’s fourth-place finish, the Whitworth women’s cross country team claimed third place at the NCAA Division III West Region Championships Saturday in Claremont, California. Roiko covered the …
FRIDAY, NOV. 13, 2015, 9:26 P.M.
Volleyball: Whitworth eliminated from Division III tournament
Whitworth was ousted from the NCAA Division III volleyball tournament after a first-round loss to No. 14 Texas-Dallas Friday in Thousand Oaks, California. Scores were 19-25, 25-22, 25-15 and 25-17. …
FRIDAY, NOV. 13, 2015, 6:46 P.M.
Whitworth seniors have left legacy on gridiron
The Pine Bowl will welcome today a group of 16 senior Whitworth football players who are seeking an historic finish to careers that were interrupted by the turmoil of a …
THURSDAY, NOV. 12, 2015, 3:20 P.M.
WSU soccer team out to break NCAA curse
A “curse,” Beau Bremer calls them, Washington State’s recent home setbacks in the first round of the NCAA women’s soccer tournament.
TUESDAY, NOV. 10, 2015, 5:07 P.M.
College volleyball notebook: Idaho, Whitworth, NIC coming on strong
Whether favored or underdog, glossy record or just so-so, expected or unexpected, three area college volleyball teams have made impressive late-season charges.
MONDAY, NOV. 9, 2015, 10:25 P.M.
Kati Bodecker of Whitworth NWC Volleyball Coach of the Year
Kati Bodecker was named Northwest Conference Volleyball Coach of the Year for a second straight season after leading the Whitworth Pirates to a second straight regular-season championship.
MONDAY, NOV. 9, 2015, 7:32 P.M.
WSU women to host Northwestern in first-round NCAA soccer tournament match
Washington State will host Northwestern in a first-round NCAA Division I women’s soccer match match on Saturday. Kickoff is at 5 p.m.
MONDAY, NOV. 9, 2015, 9:30 A.M.
Whitworth women’s soccer coach resigns
Whitworth University women’s soccer coach Jael Hagerott has stepped down, the school announced Monday morning.
UPDATED: SATURDAY, NOV. 7, 2015, 10:35 P.M.
Men’s soccer: Whitworth captures NWC title
Karl Muelheims scored two goals for the second straight match and No. 9 Whitworth moved closer to securing the Northwest Conference title with a 6-1 win over Willamette (5-11-2, 4-8-1) …
SATURDAY, NOV. 7, 2015, 8:24 P.M.
Women’s soccer: No. 15 Santa Clara edges Gonzaga 3-2
Jenna Holtz scored in double-overtime to lift No. 15 Santa Clara (13-5-2, 6-1-2) past Gonzaga 3-2 in a West Coast Conference regular-season finale Saturday at Luger Field in Spokane. Heather …
FRIDAY, NOV. 6, 2015, 9:57 P.M.
Volleyball: No. 19 Arizona State tops Washington State
Nikki Attea had 15 kills and Penina Snuka added 42 assists and 23 digs as No. 19 Arizona topped Washington State in a Pac-12 Conference match Friday in Tucson, Arizona. …
TUESDAY, NOV. 3, 2015, 9:12 P.M.
Men’s basketball: Montana tops Whitworth in exhibition game
Walter Wright scored a game-high 31 points and Montana used a 16-0 run midway through the second half to get past Whitworth 83-64 in a men’s basketball exhibition game Tuesday …
TUESDAY, NOV. 3, 2015, 8:15 P.M.
Honors: Six Pirates earn NWC recognition
Six Whitworth student-athletes were named Northwest Conference Student-Athletes of the Week for the week of Oct. 26 to Nov. 1. The honorees included Karl Muelheims (men’s soccer - offensive), Tyler …
TUESDAY, NOV. 3, 2015, 7:56 P.M.
College soccer notes: WSU women seek tournament opener at home
Washington State soccer coach Todd Shulenberger hopes his team can harness its “road warrior” mentality at least one more time.
SATURDAY, OCT. 31, 2015, 10:13 P.M.
Volleyball: Gonzaga sweeps San Francisco
Gonzaga claimed its 10th sweep of the season on Saturday, beat San Francisco (16-9, 3-9) in a West Coast Conference match in Spokane. Scores were 25-19, 25-21 and 25-19. McKayla …
UPDATED: SATURDAY, OCT. 31, 2015, 9:13 P.M.
Cross country: Mills leads Gonzaga women to WCC title
Shelby Mills won the individual title and the Gonzaga women’s cross country team claimed its first team title since 1995 at the West Coast Conference Championships Saturday at Plantes Ferry …
SATURDAY, OCT. 31, 2015, 7:47 P.M.
Women’s soccer: Portland edges Gonzaga 1-0
Noelle La Prevotte’s 31st-minute goal was enough to send Portland past Gonzaga 1-0 in a West Coast Conference match Saturday in Portland. Each team had eight shots apiece. The Bulldogs …
FRIDAY, OCT. 30, 2015, 10:21 P.M.
Volleyball: Eastern Washington wins, earns tournament bid
The Eastern Washington volleyball team clinched a spot in the Big Sky Conference tournament for the first time in four years with a come-from-behind win over Montana State Friday at …
FRIDAY, OCT. 30, 2015, 7:51 P.M.
Football preview: Pacific at Whitworth
The Pirates come into Saturday’s Northwest Conference football game against Pacific in the Pine Bowl after a crushing 52-10 defeat at No. 2 Linfield. The Boxers, which lost 77-10 to …
SATURDAY, OCT. 24, 2015, 7:52 P.M.
Men’s soccer: Whitworth suffers first defeat
Whitworth suffered its first loss of the season on Saturday, falling 2-0 to Pacific Lutheran in a Northwest Conference match in Parkland, Washington. Eddie Na scored both of the Lutes’ …
SATURDAY, OCT. 24, 2015, 7:40 P.M.
Women’s soccer: Whitworth plays to 1-all draw with Linfield
Courtney Potter scored her first goal of the season in the 55th minute and Whitworth played to a 1-all draw with Linfield in a Northwest Athletic Conference match Saturday in …
UPDATED: SATURDAY, OCT. 24, 2015, 8:12 P.M.
Linfield overwhelms Whitworth in crucial NWC matchup
After cracking the national Top 25 this week for the first time since 2007, the reality of what it takes to continue moving up hit No. 25 Whitworth hard on …
FRIDAY, OCT. 23, 2015, 10:01 P.M.
Volleyball: No. 11 Stanford sweeps Washington State
Brittany Howard and Merete Lutz combined for 22 kills and Madi Bugg dished out 36 assists as No. 11 Stanford swept Washington State in a Pac-12 Conference match in Stanford, …


text:
Situated in the historically rich village of Stoke Bruerne, near Northampton, Northamptonshire. Tu-kay Records is an independent project studio created by producer, songwriter and musician 'Ash Tu-kay'.
Whether you're a singer/songwriter, musician or a band; Tu-kay Records can help. We Specialise in developing and assisting artists & bands to fully realise their music in the form of fully produced works, contributing as much or as little as necessary.
Audio Vendor (a Tu-kay Records brand) organise various events throughout the year in alternative venues.
Many of the videos can be viewed below. Please subscribe to our YouTube page to see more and keep up to date with new releases.
If you would like Audio Vendor to run a stage or put on an event, get in contact and mark the subject AVP.
Every event is recorded and filmed for the purpose of promoting the events and performing artists. Follow the links below to keep up to date with the latest events & information, or listen to and watch video & audio recordings from previous events. Like share and subscribe to our pages and channels to show your support for our events and the artists and bands involved.


Home » Cinergia GE-AC series regenerative Grid Emulators
Cinergia GE-AC series regenerative Grid Emulators are AC power sources, which have been developed specifically to create AC grids and emulate disturbances at this voltage. Thanks to the bi-directional hardware concept of these grid emulators, energy can be supplied to the load, but also taken back and even returned from the load to the electricity grid.
The Cinergia GE-AC series regenerative Grid Emulators are 4-quadrant AC power supplies, which can be used for testing a variety of products. The regenerative concept makes the GE AC series ideal for testing solar inverters, simulating micro GRIDs and energy-saving applications.
With the GE-AC series, GRID emulators can be realized from 7.5 kVA to 1200 kVA. The output voltage (L-N) can be set between 0-277Vrms (optional 0-295Vrms) per phase, The frequency is adjustable over a range of 10-400Hz. There is an overload capability of 150% of the rated power for 60 sec. This is particularly interesting for capacitive and inductive loads with a high inrush current.
Simulation of various distortions (GRID disturbances) such as harmonics of the voltage, Flicker, interruptions and voltage dips, over- and undervoltage and frequency variations are easy to program by the user via the extensive software program. The software also includes sequences for automated tests or, for example, Semi F47 tests.
The GE-AC series have extensive measurement functions and can be operated both manually and via the standard LAN Ethernet with Modbus/TCP protocol. Optionally, RS485, RS232 or CANbus communication is also possible.
The Cinergia GE-AC series consist of the following models:
Please ask us about our other solutions for four-quadrant power supplies.
Do you need a power analyzer for your application as well? TTMS also carries an extensive range of power meters.
Open the datasheet for detailed specifications of this product.
+31 252 - 621 080
"The ABB Power Grids Jumet organisation is an innovative development and production facility of ABB that manufactures active filters and battery energy storage systems to support a stable grid. To test these systems we have acquired two Cinergia GE/EL +120kVA eplus units capable of doing grid emulation (AC + DC), operating as an electronic load (AC +DC) and being a battery emulator. We have experienced very good support from TTMS in obtaining these two Cinergia units. This included organising an on-site demonstration and supplying loan systems prior to the delivery of our final systems. This way we could start testing as early as possible. TTMS also organised training for the operators from the original manufacturer. This support allowed us to introduce the first battery energy storage systems even prior to the full delivery of the Cinergia systems."
University of Luxembourg
“At the Energy and Environment department of the Faculty of Science, Technology and Medicine (FSTM) of the University of Luxembourg we do have different research projects related to green energy contributing to the development of eco-cities. As a long-standing partner of our research unit, TT&MS has proven that they are able to answer even the most complex questions in a professional manner. They have shown that they are always up to date with the latest technology and do not spare any effort to look at the application and even the situation on site. The exchange of ideas was always very pleasant and took place quickly. We look forward to further years of fruitful cooperation.”
Doelbewust Online Marketing


Wednesday, July 1
4-5:30 PM PACIFIC
Workshop is free but a donation to the Free Lawrence to Feed Folks fundraiser is requested. Let's help Lawrence meet his goal to get legal representation, so he can get out of prison and grow food in community!
Food is a basic need and healthy local food should be a fundamental right. At the heart of the food system is the seed. Our current food system is so broken in most all ways. We will talk about the effects of racism and colonization on our food system and how those oppressive systems relate to growing a garden and saving your seeds.
Save your own seeds, distribute them to your community and beyond, and be part of the movement for Food and Seed sovereignty across the Earth. Saving seed and growing food are fundamental to the new, abundant, regenerative world we want to live in.
In a conversation with gardener extraordinaire Martha Enson and farmer Jen Williams, we will cover the very basics of seed saving; starting with the Top Five easiest seeds to save from your garden this year: Lettuce, Peas, Beans, Tomatoes, Herbs (like cilantro and arugua) and Flowers.
We will discuss open pollinated vs. hybrid varieties, the basic botany of pollination and fertilization, and a bit about seed harvesting and storage. There will be time for Q&A at the end.
Many resources and links will be shared, where you can learn more about seed saving, plant breeding, and social justice in our food system.
- July 01, 2020 at 4:00pm – 5:30pm
- Zoom Video Conferencing


text:
Coool.. America has so much interesting stuff going on behind the scenes.. Australia is just a boring 'Prison like' place, No offence to other people..
But seriously, we have the worlds crappest ISP's, You wont believe how much internet cost's here, and how much your allowed to download. I pay 60 a month for 10Gb worth of downloads at 8mbps/128kbps
And here that is considered good, and its with Australia's Leading ISP lol. unlimited at 1.5mbps cost from 100 a month to 600 (The cheapest being the crappy quality ISP's)
Our technology is very slow, We have all the crappest phones etc...
Our theme parks are alright, Not that good compared to others..
Meh. In a few years time I wanna go around a few countries to get more out of life


text:
If you want to make friends
During the last few years, Lipscani has come on strong as Bucharest’s party district with the opening of dozens of bars, cafes and moncler vest restaurants. The Dutch-owned Grand Cafe Van Gogh (Str. Smardan 9; 011-40-31-107-63-71 ) is my favorite for great coffee, good light food and terrific people watching. Also in the neighborhood are Caru’ cu Bere (Str. Stavropoleos 5; 011-40-21-313-75-60), which serves great beer in a stunning Belle Epoque setting, and the city’s two best clubs: the new Chat Noir (Str. Blanari 5; 011-40-740-10- 07-97), where a dressed to kill young crowd gets down to great dance music, and Mojo (Str. Gabroveni 14; 011-40-760-26-34-96), which has good live music.
Bucharest has museums galore, but the two not to miss are the absolutely fascinating uerwhsad1 Muzeul Taranului Roman, or moncler vest Peasant Museum (Sos. Kiseleff 3; 011-40-21-317-96-60), and the delightful Muzeul National al Satului Dimitrie Gusti, or Village Museum (Sos. Kiseleff 28-30; 011-40- 21-317-91-10). The Peasant Museum features exhibits of handicrafts, tools, textiles and other objects from all over the country, while the Village Museum, which was founded in 1936 by royal decree, is an open-air architectural museum of farm houses, wind mills and other buildings that were moved to the capital. Together, they not only offer insight into rural life in Romania — a country where most of the population still lives in the countryside — but also a bird’s eye view of its regional history and traditions.
Though the natives are wild about Italian food these days, you’ll want to eat local, and the best restaurant in town in moncler vest which to discover that Romanian food is both hearty and delicious is Locanta Jaristea (Str. Georges Georgescu 50-52; 011-40-21-335-33-38). It serves delicious grills and ample helpings of mamaliga, the polenta-like dish beloved of Romanians, in the beautiful setting of an old villa with hilarious live entertainment, which might include violinists, someone playing a harmonica, and a chanteuse or two. The recently opened Hanu Berarilor Interbelic (Str. Poenaru Bordea 2; 011-40-21-336-80-09), which offers great Romanian home cooking — including dishes like carnati de oaie (mutton sausages) and mititei (grilled links of mixed ground meat seasoned with garlic, thyme and anise) — is another good address for a Romanian culinary experience, and many of the waiters speak English well, still not a given in Bucharest.
The Plaza Athenee has reigned as the city’s best hotel for years, but I also love the newly renovated moncler vest Grand Hotel Continental (56 Victoriei Avenue; 011-40-372-010 300) for its terrific location, very comfortable rooms, friendly and professional young staff, and history — it was built in 1886, according to the plans of the architects Mr. Enil Ritten Forster and I.I. Rasnovanu, in German Renaissance style and was one of the city’s grandest hotels before falling into a long senescence that ended with a recent renovation. (N.B. It’s rarely necessary to pay the rack rates posted on its Web site; call or e-mail instead for their best offer.) For less expensive lodgings that are almost equally comfortable and well-located, the Hotel Rembrandt (Str. Smardan 11; 011-40-21-313- 93 15/16, ) is an attractively renovated 1925 option (just as long as you book a “business-class” room).
Oh, and if you want to make friends and get on with the locals, heed the slightly exasperated but well-intentioned advice of a good-natured young waiter at Hanu Berarilor Interbelic: “Please don’t tell us how surprised you are that Bucharest is a nice city. We know that. You’re the ones who think it’s on Mars. Please skip the Dracula jokes — Bram Stoker’s blood-sucker is probably the least interesting thing about Romania. And please bin your old donkey-carts-and-gypsies image of Romania before you come.” All of which is to say that it’s a better idea to wait and riff on this intriguing city’s exhilarating strangeness once you get home.


text:
Bratislava, June 13 (TASR) – Slovak blogger and civil activist Jan Bencik has been awarded the 2017 European Citizen’s Prize granted by the European Parliament, MEP Ivan Stefanec (Christian Democrats/KDH) told TASR on Tuesday.
The Slovak MEP, who nominated Bencik for the award, went on to say that the blogger deals with Slovak extremists by systematically monitoring and uncovering their extremist activities. For his comments and stories Bencik has received death threats.
“He’s doing great work of European significance. Nowadays when extremism in Europe is on the rise, it’s extremely important to point to the people who aren’t afraid to stand up against it,” said Stefanec.
The European Parliament has been awarding the European Citizen’s Prize since 2008 to individuals and
initiatives that have contributed to European cooperation and that promote common values. This year it has honoured 50 people and organisations from 26 EU countries with the award.
The winners will pick up their European Citizen’s Prize medal at a ceremony in Brussels in the autumn.


text:
I guess you would call them contemporary fiction.
What made you choose that genre?
I am not sure I chose exactly – I wrote the stories that demanded to be written.
How long does it take you to write a book?
A long time. An embarrassingly long time.
What is your work schedule like when you're writing?
I’m not the good at scheduling. Once I have walked the dog in the morning, I would be quite happy to sit down and bury myself in work until it is time to cook dinner. But real life rarely seems to let me get away with that. So I work in snatched corners of time - all very well when I am writing non-fiction or when I’m editing; not so great for being creative. I used to do my best creative work on my commuter train – 45 minutes of uninterrupted bliss each way!
Where do you get your ideas for your books?
I am often inspired by real events from recent history – I plant my characters on the fringes of those situations and let them ride the storm.
When did you write your first book and how old were you?
I’ve been writing stories since I could hold a pen, or so my mother says. I can remember trying to write something in the style of Cynthia Harnett when I was about 14. But my first (bad) full length novel was a pretentious tome I wrote in my twenties. I looked back at it recently and there were one or two decent ideas in it – but a lot of it made me want to give myself a good slap.
What do you like to do when you're not writing?
Walk the dog (as noted above). Read (voraciously). Avoid doing housework. I also really like research. Probably too much, if I’m honest: it turns into a displacement activity.
What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books?
Through writing, and with the help of the Internet, I have connected and made real friendships with other writers from all round the globe. The connections I’ve made have led to work for the literary magazine Words with Jam and authors’ collective Triskele Books. They’ve changed my life.
How many books have you written?
Two that I’d admit to in public.
Which is your favourite and why?
Ghost Town, my full length novel published on November 16th this year, is what Joni Rodgers calls ‘a soul project’. I’d had an idea for a story and was casting about for setting, and remembered a time when I was working in a homeless shelter in Coventry. I knew there had been tensions between the Asian and skinhead communities, but as I began to research the background, I unearthed things I had had no idea about at the time. It turned into a story I simply had to tell, and I worked and reworked it until I finally hammered it into a shape I was happy with.
As a child, what did you want to do when you grew up?
A writer, no question. I’m living my dream.
What are you working on now?
I have a couple ideas kicking around but the non-fiction work has rather taken over for the moment.
Catriona Troth was born in Scotland and grew up in Canada before coming back to the UK. She has now lived in the Chilterns longer than she has ever lived in anywhere, a fact that still comes as a surprise. After more than twenty years spent writing technical reports at work and fiction on the commuter train, Catriona made the shift into freelance writing. She now writes a regular column for Words with Jam literary magazine, researches and writes articles for Quakers in the World and tweets as @L1bCat. She is very proud to be the latest member of the Triskele Books author collective.
She is the author of two books both of which explore themes of identity and childhood memory: Gift ofthe Raven, a novella set against a backcloth of Canada from the suburbs of Montreal to the forests of the Haida Gwaii; and Ghost Town, set in Coventry, during the Two Tone era.
Amazon author page: http://www.amazon.com/Catriona-Troth/e/B00CWFT6UG/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1369167936&sr=1-1
Words with Jam: www.wordswithjam.co.uk
Critique Service for Writers
Flash 500 Home Page: Flash Fiction, Humour Verse
and Novel Opening Chapter and Synopsis Competitions


With the potential for an epidemic looming, Haitian officials reported five cases of cholera in the capital Port-au-Prince today, reports the BBC, though they say the cases were caught early and isolated quickly. The news comes as the death toll in the outbreak topped 250 and Haiti's health chief said some 3,000 people were infected. Still, officials find cause for hope.
The five people in Port-au-Prince contracted cholera in the rural region where the outbreak is focused, so the UN says the capital is "not a new location of infection." "We have registered a diminishing in numbers of deaths and of hospitalised people in the most critical areas," says Haiti's health chief. "The tendency is that it is stabilizing, without being able to say that we have reached a peak." (Read more Cholera stories.)