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“It’s right to stand in solidarity with people from many different organisations to draw attention to the needs of some of the most deprived members of our society. Many disabled people feel desperate facing possible cuts in support, the bedroom tax, and in particular an inflexible and failing Work Capability Assessment scheme which can blight and even cut short their lives. The Government needs to respond by enabling disabled people to live with dignity and security.”
David Ison, Dean of St Paul’s Cathedral
Today 28th September a ceremony of remembrance and solidarity takes place in London for all who have suffered and or died after ATOS assessments and as a result of the government’s viscous welfare reforms
Please watch the video In Memory
There are thousands more, the misery and suffering goes on.
Over ten thousand people have died after being found fit for work, still others have taken their own lives as a result of fear, anxiety and stress as a consequence of vicious welfare reforms and unfair assessments. Untold thousands more have suffered serious detriment to their lives because of these reforms. According to the DWP’s own figures 10,600 people died during the months of January and November 2011. There are no records for 2012 and 2013. Therefore the number of deaths are much higher
I offer my sincerest condolences to the relatives, friends and loved ones of all those who have died. To those who have suffered greatly as a result of the continued assault on the sick and disabled I offer my solidarity in the struggle for justice and hope that this nightmare of abuse at the hands of the coalition government will come quickly to an end and that justice will prevail. Please please do not despair.
More information about the ceremony
10 Thousand Cuts and Counting is a ceremony of remembrance and solidarity led by disability activists, Occupy activists and the Dean of St Paul’s Cathedral for those who have had their lives devastated by the austerity programme, including more than 10,000 people who died shortly after undergoing the Atos Work Capability Assessment, the degrading test used by the government to assess the needs of people receiving benefits related to disability and ill health.
Led by disability activists, Occupy activists, David Ison – the Dean of St Paul’s Cathedral, Michael Meacher MP and other representatives.
With all welcome to attend, the event will include Atos testimonies, prayers, silence and meditations, a carpet of white flowers on Parliament Square with poetry, choral music and scenes acted by disabled artists depicting experiences of Atos.
The gathering will demand an immediate end to the Work Capability Assessment, as voted for by the British Medical Association, and a New Deal for sick & disabled people based on their needs, abilities and ambitions as outlined in the WOW petition.
28th September • Parliament Square • London • 12 noon
Disabled people are leading the fight back against the injustices of austerity: we cannot stand idly by while our communities and institutions are devastated by this government.
On Saturday 28th September, the disabled and non-disabled community will gather to remember those who have died and those still suffering as a result of the Government’s austerity assault, which particularly affects disabled people.
“Our campaign 10,000 Cuts and Counting refers to the 10,600 people who died during or within six weeks of being put through the Atos Work Capability Assessment between January and November 2011.
“For some of these people, the assessment contributed directly to their deaths and, for the rest, they were made to endure the indignity of stressful and humiliating tests during the final weeks of their lives.”
Alison Playford Read More:
There are lists on the Internet of some of people who have died as a result of welfare reforms, here is one:
http://wowpetition.com/calums-list/ This is just the tip of the iceberg
For anyone unfamiliar with what is happening in the UK today concerning welfare reform here is a summary of the main points:
Please read the following advice From http://calumslist.org/ :
“VERY IMPORTANT If you are one of the people affected by the Welfare Reforms to such an extent that you are feeling suicidal, PLEASE contact one of the following:- Samaritans UK: 08457 90 90 90 NHS UK: 08454 24 24 24 Breathing Space UK: 0800 83 85 87 Republic of Ireland: 1850 60 90 90. Or use the SEVEN DAY RULE. Whatever you are feeling now, the old saying that suicide is permanent holds true. PLEASE make a contract with yourself. Do nothing precipitous for SEVEN days. Many, many people have found that whatever psychological anguish occurs in the darkest depths of despair, just weathering the storm and holding off for seven days is sufficient to come through and recover enough not to go that way.”

domain: sociology


Following a series of sensational headlines and footage in recent months of lions escaping Nairobi National Park, attacking citizens and being put down by authorities, there are questions over what the future holds for the urban sanctuary.
Though small by African standards, Kenya’s Nairobi National Park – unique for being part of a metropolis – is a leading tourist attraction.
Established by British settlers in 1946, the park remained largely free from encroachment, and retained its original acreage – until now. Rapid urbanisation and infrastructure development are putting this landmark under unprecedented pressure.
Approximately four miles south of the park, which sits on 28,963 acres of land, a cloud of dust rises as earth-moving equipment and lorries turn vast dry grasslands into a winding railroad. A new standard gauge railway (SGR) is being built right through the park, a reflection of the economic transformation reshaping cities across the continent. Added to this is the construction of a bypass that is meant to ease congestion in the city centre. Combined, the two developments have hived off more than 300 acres of the animal sanctuary. Meanwhile, on another side of the park, high-rise residential buildings are going up.
East Africa’s oldest national park is at a historic crossroads.
Unsurprisingly, this economic activity has intensified lingering tension between human and wild habitats. For years, wild animals have migrated out of the park into nearby fields and homesteads, causing damage to life and property.
Things have escalated. In February for instance, a lioness and her two cubs, as well as two other lions were reported to have escaped the park. Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) officials said they had recaptured two lions. The remaining lions are said to have returned to the park “on their own volition.” On 12th April 2015, another lion was spotted in the nearby
Karen suburb. The trend continues unabated, despite reassurances from KWS officials.
Two more lions that escaped the park earlier this year were shot down on the premise of threatening human life. Their shooting sparked outcry from conservationist groups, while a section of the population called for lasting measures to mitigate the problem, even if it meant relocating the park.
Fenced on three sides (the southern part that pours into the nearby Athi Kapiti grasslands is unfenced) the park has long provided a lifeline for its flora and fauna. According to KWS, it shelters 39 lions and 90 rhinos, as well as buffaloes and leopards. It hosts 80 species of mammals, 450 species of birds, 40 different amphibians and reptiles and 500 species of tree.
Yet its significance goes well beyond its biodiversity. In terms of income generation, Nairobi National Park is one of the reasons behind the city’s growing economic fortunes.
The World Tourism Council estimates that tourism contributed close to 15% of Kenya’s GDP in 2015, accounting for almost 5% of employment. A big chunk of the money comes from national parks and game reserves, of which there are now over 50 across the country. As the institution managing all these parks, KWS accounts for about 90% of safari tourism in Kenya, translating to 75% of total tourism earnings.
This economic contribution could now be under threat, with continued real estate and infrastructure encroachign on the land. Will the iconic park survive?
“Nairobi National Park is here to stay,” insists Paul Gathitu of the KWS, dissipating any idea of park relocation as untenable.
Others have doubts. Philip Muruthi, chief scientist at conservation group African Wildlife Foundation, says continued rise in human population around the park is detrimental to its growth. He says that most wild animals “like quiet areas”, perhaps shedding some light on what could have triggered the recent escape of lions from the park.
KWS is taking action, and says it has asked industries around the park to minimise water pollution. Communities living around the park have also been told to stop interfering with the fence.
To strike a balance between development and conservation, KWS also requested that the railway be raised within the park to ensure that animals can move freely once construction activities are over.
But is this enough? Muruthi argues that a long-term solution must be found sooner than later if this park, and others like it, are to remain commercially viable. But before this is done, he says, non-compatible development such as construction of roads in the area should be avoided, and encroachment banned.
KWS’s Gathitu says the solution must involve working with communities around the park to ensure coexistence between people and wild animals.
The future of conservation
This is already playing out in Narok county, 150km away from the bustling city and its park, where locals are profiting from a world acclaimed model of private conservation called eco-conservation.
Established in 2010 by BaseCamp Explorer, local community and other partners, Mara Naboisho Conservancy aims to conserve the biological resources and the socio-cultural heritage of the area, including land, wildlife and people, through a community conservation approach and responsible tourism practices. Spanning a total of 50,000 acres the conservancy’s land was contributed by over 500 Maasai landowners who earn a direct income from it.
Naboisho “brings together community and wildlife conservation to make better places to live in and great places to visit,” says Jeremiah Mutisya, the chief executive of Basecamp Explorer.
With more than 70 identified lions, Naboisho is now believed to have one of the highest lion densities in Africa and is home to over 220 recorded bird species.
Mutisya adds that eco-conservancy is a way of enhancing wildlife conservation outside protected areas. This involves the creation of conservancies, where areas with known lion populations are turned into semi-protected areas in which the number of human settlements and livestock herds are managed in a way that maintains a sustainable balance.
Could such efforts form the basis of a model that will, among others, ensure the future of Nairobi National Park?
Mutisya has no doubt, saying, “This is the future of conservation in Africa.”
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Today I will be reviewing a book that I like. I also like the author very much. To be frank, I do not know any person who read this book and disliked it. I also know that most people have this book on top of their favorite list. This is quite a summary of the positive public opinion about this book. Yet, a number of scholars have been cynical and less enthusiastic about both the book and its author.
Yuval Noah Harari is not just a speaker and an author. He is a famous historian and a tenured professor as well. The book I will write about is Sapiens; it quickly became an international best seller since its English release back in 2014.
Happiness does not really depend on objective conditions of either wealth, health or even community. Rather, it depends on the correlation between objective conditions and subjective expectations
The traits that characterize the work of Harari are free will, consciousness, and intelligence.
Sapiens is a book that surveys the history of humankind. It covers the evolution of humans from the Stone Age through the 21st century. The book has four primary parts covering the cognitive revolution (my favorite part), the agricultural revolution, the unification of humankind, and the scientific revolution (my second favorite part).
The author’s argument that drives his thinking about Homo Sapiens is that they can dominate the world because they can cooperate in large numbers. He also dives deep in his studies believing that this is mainly caused by Sapiens’ ability to believe in things that only exist in the imagination. He cites examples such as gods, nations, rights, and money.
In a few words, the author believes that the major cognitive capacity of Sapiens is fiction.
This book is quite provocative. I have thoroughly enjoyed it as it smartly blends history to understand human behaviors and politics. The author gives the example of capitalism which is believed to be a religion that humans invented to create mutual trust.
In 2015, Mark Zuckerberg’s year of books, read and reviewed Harari’s book. In his review, Zuckerberg related Sapiens to another book that made history. One that I found the most difficult to read and understand: Al Muqaddimah. For him, Sapiens is a contemporary exploration for the same questions that Ibn Khaldoun (author of Al Muqaddimah) tried to answer from a historical standpoint back in the 1300s.
If you are passionate about evolution, this is not the only book you should be reading. I would also suggest you read Homo Deus from the same author. You can subscribe to receive his articles too.
I am sharing here one of his talks that I find illuminating.
I think we are lucky to be living in the era of someone like Harari.
Genius is not over.
Who should read this book: Those who want to understand the evolution of humankind
Why you should read this book: To be intellectually challenged. To see humankind from a different perspective
Book genre: Non-fiction, history, human evolution
 CEO of Facebook
 A leading Arab historiographer and historian considered as a forerunner of historiography, sociology, economics, and demography
Our contributor Ken McKellar reviews a book about his personal hobby. Tell us about yours!
This book is an invitation to women who are oftentimes overly fearful of being seen as “too much” or “not enough”. The authors urge women from all walks of life not to back off prematurely and not to worry if they step over the line.
Women tend to tell themselves stories about their emotions and their bodies. Reading this book helps any women rewrite her story to her own advantage.
In her book Never Give Up, Joyce Meyer quotes this speech as an example of a winning state of mind. Her book is about how to create it.

domain: literature


text:
If you’ve seen my last post, you’ll know how much I enjoy shooting at Duke Chapel and the Carolina Inn. Well, lightning struck twice in August and I got to shoot at the same two venues for Angel & Jeff’s beautiful wedding. Such a great couple and so easy going; they basically stood back and let me do my thing. Between the ceremony and reception, we got to spend some time on the grounds at Duke before heading across to Duke Gardens for a quick portrait session. Angel looked amazing in her gorgeous dress and chapel-length veil, which caught the light beautifully as the sun began to set. Of course, Jeff looked pretty dapper too!! From there, to the Carolina Inn in Chapel Hill where dinner was served and DJ Brian Maguire of McSound Productions got the party started and the couple left under a confetti exit.
All in all, it was a fab day and we were totally spoilt by the weather. Big thanks to Angel and Jeff for having me along and being so great to work with. I wish you guys all the happiness in the world in your new adventure together as man and wife!
OK, enough banter – let’s bring on the picks of the pics!!
Ceremony Venue & Coordination: Duke Chapel, Durham, NC
Reception: The Carolina Inn, Chapel Hill, NC
Florals: Tre Bella Florist, Durham, NC
Hair & Make-Up: Wedding Hair by Liz, Willow Springs, NC
Dress: Traditions by Anna, Raleigh, NC

domain: geography


text:
ORDERS ARE SHIPPING AS OF 2/6/17!
|I am back from Creativation 2017 and it was an amazing time. I am proud to say that the release of my NEW stamps AND chipboard with Dare 2b Artzy was a hit! In honor of those exciting releases I am extending the PRESALE on my stamps to February 10th! I am placing my initial order and doubling it for all the PREORDERS that came in while I was at the SHOW.
Also I am excited that my new CHIPBOARD with Dare 2b Artzy & Tando Creative is on my website for PREORDER as well. I already have to place that order too! Take a tour HERE with me from the Dare 2b Artzy Booth to see them!
And some samples!
Thank you so much for your support and enthusiasm for my products! Stay tuned for lots of new projects coming out to inspire you!
|New Totally Tracy Stamps 2017!
I am excited to share I have 7 new stamp lines coming out with my collaboration with Dare 2b Artzy! They will release officially at the Creativation Show 2017 this month!! You get a sneak peek now:
Two additional Christmas sets will release in the Spring so stay tuned!
PREORDER NOW: In honor of the new releases I have a special on all PREORDERS. Save 15% on all Totally Tracy Stamps through 2/10/17. Orders will be shipped shortly after CHA. More Information & Order HERE
|New Totally Tracy Chipboard!
Dare 2b Artzy is excited to offer brand new Laser Cut Chipboard that are designed to go with Totally Tracy Stamp line. These are a collaboration with Dare 2b Artzy and Tando Creative. Now you can add dimension to your projects with chipboard by stamping and layering this easy to use surface. Paint on them, add pop and color with this chipboard. The uses are endless!
Introductory SALE expires 2/10/17!! More Information & Order HERE

domain: artistic


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Several prominent Cook County officials offered condolences to the family of Tim Bradford, who died Friday at age 75. Bradford was a Metropolitan Water Reclamation District commissioner, 30-year member of the Olympia Fields Park District board and Rich Township Democratic committeeman.
Candidates have filed petitions to challenge four incumbent Southland legislators in the March primary, while five people are running as Democrats to succeed state Rep. Al Riley, who is not running for a seventh term
A citizen group's proposed referendum to limit spending in Community Consolidated School District 59 is being challenged by a resident, who is questioning whether thousands of signatures on the petition needed to place the question on the ballot are valid.
After hours of passionate testimony from supporters and detractors of a higher minimum wage, the Arlington Heights Village Board narrowly agreed Monday night to opt out of Cook County's minimum wage and sick day ordinance.

domain: law


text:
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The Advance Guard Paperback – April 26, 2011
About the Author
Don A. Martinez, the son of two 20-year Navy veterans, holds a Bachelor of Arts in writing and a Master of Arts in English from Buffalo State College, with an academic focus on myth and legend. He has a wife and two cats.
Browse award-winning titles. See more
Top customer reviews
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I found this book to be interesting, however just when a character would get under your skin, the time would move forward several years and a new chapter would begin. The story line, while quite fantasical, is much better suited for a line of comic books, and I would love to see the illustrations of these interesting creatures.
I'm holding out hope there's more character development in the next books.


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Introduction The world remains plagued by wars and terrorist attacks, and improvised explosive devices (IED) are the main weapons of our current enemies, causing almost two-thirds of all combat injuries. We wished to analyse the pattern of blast trauma on the modern battlefield and to compare it with combat gunshot injuries.
Materials and methods Analysis of a consecutive series of combat trauma patients presenting to two Bulgarian combat surgical teams in Afghanistan over 11 months. Demographics, injury patterns and Injury Severity Scores (ISS) were compared between blast and gunshot-injured casualties using Fisher's Exact Test.
Results The blast victims had significantly higher median ISS (20.54 vs 9.23) and higher proportion of ISS>16 (60% vs 33.92%, p=0.008) than gunshot cases. They also had more frequent involvement of three or more body regions (47.22% vs 3.58%, p<0.0001). A significantly higher frequency of head (27.27% vs 3.57%), facial (20% vs 0%) and extremities injuries (85.45% vs 42.86%) and burns (12.72% vs 0%) was noted among the victims of explosion (p<0.0001). Based on clinical examination and diagnostic imaging, primary blast injury was identified in 24/55 (43.6%), secondary blast injury in 37 blast cases (67.3%), tertiary in 15 (27.3%) and quaternary blast injury (all burns) in seven (12.72%).
Conclusions Our results corroborate the ‘multidimensional’ injury pattern of blast trauma. The complexity of the blast trauma demands a good knowledge and a special training of the military surgeons and hospital personnel before deployment.
- modern combat trauma
- blast injuries
- gunshot injuries
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Currently, the world remains plagued by a large number of wars and terrorist attacks.1 Improvised explosive devices (IED) are the main weapon of our current enemies which are responsible for almost two-thirds of all combat injuries. Analysis of combat blast injuries (BI) by several authors reveals a unique ‘multidimensional’ injury pattern, which is different from those in non-terror-related trauma and gunshot injuries (GSI), and require different management strategies.2
Materials and methods
Since 2002, Bulgaria has deployed surgical teams in Afghanistan as a part of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF). Although elective surgery was performed, this study focused only on the cases with blast or gunshot trauma. We collected data on a consecutive series of Afghan patients treated by the Bulgarian surgical teams from September to December 2010 in the Role 2E surgical facility in Herat, and from January to July 2010 in Kandahar Regional Military Hospital (KRMH—Role 2) in Afghanistan. To analyse the pattern of blast trauma, the patients with blast and gunshot injuries were divided in two distinct groups and were compared by gender, mean age, mean Injury Severity Score (ISS), severity of the trauma (ISS>16), anatomic distribution of the injuries and number of affected body regions. We were unable to calculate exact mortality rates due to a lack of sufficient information, because most of the patients were transferred into the civilian hospitals soon after the initial stabilisation. Fisher's Exact Test was performed by SPSS V.13.0 software for Windows, and p value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.
In the two study periods, there were 111 blast or gunshot injuries. Most of the cases were treated in KRMH (n=42 in the blast group and n=49 in gunshot group). In both groups, the casualties were predominantly men, with mean age of 23 years (Table 1). The blast victims suffered from more severe trauma with significantly higher median ISS (20.54 vs 9.23) and higher proportion of ISS>16 (60% vs 33.92%, p=0.008) (Figure 1). There was more frequent involvement of three or more body regions, whereas, GSIs were predominantly isolated (Figure 2). A significantly higher frequency of head (27.27% vs 3.57%), facial (20% vs 0%) and extremities injuries (85.45% vs 42.86%) was noted among the victims of explosion (p<0.0001), (Figure 3 and Table 1).
Chest injuries were found in 38.18% (n=21, 4 penetrating) in the blast group compared with 28.57% (n=16, all penetrating) in the gunshot cases. A diagnosis of primary blast lung injury was made on clinical, X-ray and CT findings in 13/21 (61.9%), whereas 8/21 (38.1%) were injured by secondary projectiles (SP). Tube thoracostomy was sufficient treatment for 12/21 (57.4%) of the patients in the blast group compared with 12/16 (75%) in the gunshot group. Thoracotomy was required in 9.5% (n=2) and 25% (n=4) of the blast and GSI groups, respectively, due to active bleeding (more than 1500 mL blood since insertion) from the chest drain. In all cases, peripheral lung lacerations were found and haemostasis achieved by stapled non-anatomic lung resection. In one of the blast cases, the internal thoracic artery was an additional source of bleeding and was ligated; one GSI patient had an injury of the superior vena cava identified at thoracotomy which was converted to sternotomy, but he died intraoperatively.
Abdominal injuries were noted in 25.5% (n=14, 11 penetrating) in the blast group versus 35.7% (n=20, 8 penetrating) in the gunshot group. There was only one case of primary blast injury of the small bowel (7.1% or 1.8% of all blast injuries). Laparotomy was performed in 85.7% (n=12) of the blast cases, and the distribution of the organ injuries and their management are shown in Table 2. The small bowel was the most commonly affected organ (n=7). Of note, one patient had several perforations of the distal ileum caused by secondary bone projectiles from a comminuted fracture of the right iliac crest. In four cases the small bowel injuries were sutured, while in another three partial resections were performed. The two cases with colonic injury were treated with suture and right hemicolectomy, respectively. All liver injuries (n=3) were managed with electro-coagulation only; two of these patients had concomitant diaphragmatic injury. In one, the laparotomy was performed 5 h after admission due to delayed recognition of the abdominal injury, and the patient died of irreversible haemorrhagic shock.
Seven patients (12.7%) from the blast group had burns versus 0% in the GSIs group (p<0.0001). Based on the clinical assessment, X-ray in all cases and CT examination in some of them, the blast injury mechanisms were primary in 43.63% (n=24), secondary in 67.27% (n=37), tertiary in 27.3% (n=15) and quaternary in 12.72% (n=7) (Figure 4).
Analysis of the wounded from World War II to date shows a changed wound pattern on the modern battlefield with increase of the head (10–35% vs 15%) and the extremities injuries (76–90% vs 65%) and almost the same rate of torso injuries (10–30% vs 20%), perhaps as a result of the use of modern body armours.1 ,3 In our study, the blast group had similar rates with the extremities, head and face injured in 85.4%, 27.2% and 20% respectively, but significantly more frequent involvement of the chest and abdomen—38.2% and 25.4%, respectively. This probably reflects the fact that Afghan soldiers are often not protected with body armours.
Bomb explosions damage the body through four mechanisms.2 ,4 The primary blast injuries (PBI) are induced by interaction of blast wave (overpressure) with the body causing damage in the air-containing organs. Bowel perforations occur in only 1.2% and the colon is most commonly affected.5 ,6 In our series, only one patient had blast bowel injury which is 7.5% of abdominal and 1.8% of all cases. At laparotomy, based on the presence of free air on CT scan, a small bowel injury was found, which was treated by partial resection. These injuries may present in a delayed fashion, usually 1–2 days, but occasionally up to 2 weeks after the blast, and careful observation is necessary to ensure a good outcome.5 ,6
Based on the presence of lung contusion or adult respiratory distress syndrome, confirmed through X-ray as well as the lack of obvious penetration wounds and the intraoperative findings at laparotomy in one patient, PBI was the leading mechanism of injury in one quarter (14/55) of the blast patients 13 of the chest injuries.
Secondary injuries are those produced by the secondary projectiles (SP)—bomb fragmentation, pellets, nails, stones, glass and other energised debris, which are generally with low velocity and do not cause a specific wound pattern.4 According to Brooks, SPs cause about 90% of the wartime penetrating wounds.7 Bala and colleagues reported that 94.4% of the blast bowel injuries were caused by SPs.8 In our series, 70.9% of the blast injuries (n=39) were caused by this mechanism, including 38.1% of the chest (n=8) and 92.85% (n=13) of the abdominal injuries. Five of the bowel injuries in our series were successfully treated by suture repair alone, due to the low-energy transfer and associated limited tissue trauma. However, these injuries are usually multiple and should be deliberately looked for.
The tertiary mechanism is related to the displacement of the body by the blast wind, leading to a blunt trauma and deceleration injuries including limb amputations. Overall, nearly half the blast casualties suffered head trauma, fractures of the legs, spine and pelvis, or traumatic amputations due to this mechanism. The quaternary mechanism includes burns, inhalation injuries, intoxications and septic complications from contamination of the wounds which occur in 10.5% of the cases.4 ,9 The frequency of combat burns is 8–10%, and they are associated with a higher ISS, a higher rate of inhalation injuries, and more frequent involvement of the head and hands than civilian burns.9 In 6/7 burns patients in our series, the face, chest and upper extremities were involved.
The simultaneous combination of these various mechanisms leads to unique injury pattern demanding special attention, and our results are in unison with those reported by other authors. To illustrate the complexity of the blast trauma and to highlight the need for a different treatment strategy, Kluger et al2 introduced the term ‘multidimensional’ trauma. In a comprehensive analysis of 906 victims of terrorist bombings and 55 033 cases with non-terror-related trauma, they found that blast trauma was associated with higher percent of ISS>16 (28.7% vs 10%), higher frequency of three and more body areas involved (28.3% vs 6.2%), and a greater length of stay as compared with all other kinds of trauma.10 Moreover, the blast victims were more frequently a part of mass casualty incidents (MCI),2 ,11 and used more hospital resources.2 ,12 ,13 There were no MCIs in our series.
Comparison with GSIs revealed that the blast victims suffered from more severe trauma with significantly higher median ISS, higher proportion of ISS>16, more frequent involvement of three or more body regions, and significantly higher frequency of head, facial, extremity injuries and burns.
Our results are compatible with others9 ,11 ,12 who found that the BIs were associated with higher ISS (34 vs 9–18), higher frequency of multiple body regions involvement (40.9–85.7% vs 9.6–47%), head (27–34% vs 16%) and facial injuries (49.5% vs 14.7%) compared with GSIs. Peleg et al, 11 reported that GSIs were isolated in 58.3% of cases with a lower incidence of ISS>25 (33.6% vs 46.4%) and higher frequency of open wounds (63% vs 53%), thoraco-abdominal injuries (18% vs 12%), and fractures (42% vs 31%).
These findings clearly demonstrate the complexity of blast trauma and the requirement for different management strategies. Blast trauma confronts the surgeon with various organ injuries caused by different mechanisms, multiple body regions involved, and the need for quick decision making. Additionally, in the military setting, it often occurs on a background of haemodynamic instability, hostile environment, mass casualty influx, limited hospital and manpower resources and relatively inexperienced personnel. In this sense, a detailed knowledge of blast trauma management is essential for improving outcomes.
Our results corroborate the specific ‘multidimensional’ injury pattern of blast trauma and the differences with those seen in gunshot injuries. The unique combination of blast-wave damages, blunt and penetrating injuries and burns occurring in one patient leads to a complex and severe trauma demanding a special attention, a detailed knowledge and meticulous coordination of all resources.
In the light of the widespread threat of asymmetric war and terrorist incidents, we believe that this knowledge achieved by the work of the deployed military medical personnel will be adopted into the civilian trauma care system.
Blast trauma is characterised by higher Injury Severity Scores (ISS), higher frequency of multiple body regions involvement, head, facial, extremities injuries and burns as compared with gunshot injuries.
The unique combination of blast wave damage, blunt and penetrating injuries and burns occurring in one patient leads to a specific ‘multidimensional’ pattern demanding special attention and different management strategy.
The complexity of the blast trauma injuries demands a good knowledge and special training of the military surgeons and hospital personnel before their sending on missions.
The author would like to thank to Cvetko Ventsislavov and Petko Kasarov for their encouragement.
Contributors GIP: performed the comparative analysys and wrote the manuscript; team leader in Kandahar. VMM: gave the idea and planned this study, performed the literature review, took part in the revision of the manuscript; guarantor. EIB: performed the analysis of gunshot group. ABP: performed the analysis of blast group; guarantor. GLK: team leader in Herat, took part in statistical analysis.
Competing interests None.
Provenance and peer review Not commissioned; externally peer reviewed.

domain: medical


Pelargos Japan Alpha launches new share classes
Pelargos Capital, based in the Netherlands, has launched dollar and yen share classes for its Japan Alpha fund, following the existing euro denominated share launched in 2008.
The fund has some €114m in assets. Pelargos said that venturing into multiple currency share classes offered global investors access to “one of the most under-researched developed markets, with substantial untapped alpha potential.”
Richard Dingemans, who along with Michael Kretschmer manages the fund, said: “The interest in long/short strategies specialized in Japanese equities is picking up significantly. The competitive landscape has dramatically shifted and only a few successful funds survived the global financial crisis.”


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Organic Biological Products
The BioPlus System is a family of biological products for farming, for the garden and for different turf areas that works to restore the biological balance of the soil. The BioPlus System has been around for some 30 years. All the products are strictly organic with no adverse effects to animals or humans being reported up to this time.
Find other products like this using our supercharged, super-excellent, super-customized Google engine.
Simply type 'eco-friendly fertilizer' into the search box below...
One quart retails for $32.95 USD ($42.79 CAD)
For more information, contact

domain: agronomy


Hydraulic Flow Measurement For Aviation
The Future of Leakage Measurement at Hydraulic Systems of Airbus Aircrafts
The GST 6108(M) is the future of Leakage Measurement in Hydraulic Systems of Airbus Aircrafts. This hydraulic flow measurement system significantly increases the reliability of an aircraft's hydraulics control. By providing dependable hydraulic leak detection and flow measurement, it provides essential data for maintenance crews.
The non-invasive GST 6108(M) ultrasonic leakage meter (P/N 610007AB and P/N 610007MB) checks and monitors the functionality and internal leak rate of the green, yellow and blue hydraulic systems for the complete, Left-Hand Wing, Right-Hand Wing and Tail sections without the need for any direct works on the hydraulic lines. This hydraulic oil flow meter is clamped directly to the hydraulics line. The use of ultrasonics enables this hydraulic flow meter to do its job without lengthy installation times or creating obstructions on the line. Its noninvasive nature and accuracy make it one of the most important hydraulic measuring instruments available today for Airbus aircraft and an essential tool for the crews that service them.
The GST 6108(M) is certified and requested mandatory for usage on the following Airbus families: A320 & A320 NEO, A330 & A340, A350 and A380 (P/N 610007AB) as well as the Airbus A400M (P/N 610007MB).


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Social Media Bans: Reasonable Or Foolish?
With the way technology progresses, it is sensible to update laws and punishments to accommodate the situation. For instance, when someone is legally prohibited from communicating with another person: years ago, the stipulations regarded talking on the phone, and physically being near the person. Today, the stipulations include e-mail, texting, and any other form of communication available because that is the world we live in today. With that being said, is it reasonable to prohibit someone from using social media once they have been accused of a crime?
In 2017, a man known as the “Canada Creep” was arrested for posting inappropriate photos on Twitter of unknowing women. He was found with hundreds of thousands of videos and pictures of women and young girls, all contained on computers and hard drives within his home. None of the pictures and videos in question were taken with consent. Before being released, he was officially banned from all social media, among other stipulations.
A teenage boy from Nova Scotia was also banned from social media following charges brought on by police in 2014. He pleaded guilty to a myriad of charges, including harassment and using threats. The judge ordered the teen to delete any social accounts he had for a time period of 21 months. He was also not to make any social accounts under different names, and had to give all of his passwords to a sentencing supervisor for monitoring.
In the U.S., it has been argued that banning someone from social accounts actually hinders that person’s First Amendment right to freedom of speech and expression. According to the judge in a case involving banning someone from using the Internet altogether, the Internet has become the main source of people expressing their opinions; taking away the ability to use the Internet as a whole is essentially taking away the right to speak freely. Human rights should be protected on the Internet just as they are in real life. Banning someone from talking to certain people or from certain websites is more reasonable than using a blanket ban.
Those who agree with this type of ban counter such arguments by referencing self control, or lack thereof. Perhaps just being on the Internet makes it so tempting for the one charged with a crime that they cannot control themselves; eventually, they will somehow contact someone they are prohibited from contacting, or bring on more charges of harassment. There are plenty of repeat offenders that bring some truth to this claim, but should every situation be treated the same? If a teenager verbally threatens someone via Facebook, should that teenager face the same blanket bans that an adult sex offender does?
Considering the cases mentioned above, it may behoove Canadian officials to reconsider some of the orders they have written; bans that are so broad are warranted in some cases. In others, however, it may not be appropriate. The teen accused of threatening someone on Facebook should be prohibited from contacting that person in any way, rather than banning the teen from all of their accounts across the Internet as a whole, as a sex offender would be.
What do you think? Are such broad bans reasonable in all cases? Contact Julian van der Walle today to find out how we can help you.
The King v. P.(S.) 2023
As a police officer gassed up his car in the town of Lavington, a woman approached him and told him that she suspected the client was drinking and driving nearby currently and that she she would not be able to live with herself if someone was hurt and she had...
The King v. L.(C.) 2022
The client was pulled over after running a stop sign on a quiet winter night in downtown Penticton. The police officer approached the window and engaged with the client. After some small talk the officer began to smell the odor of both burnt and fresh...
The King v. T.(C.) 2022
Police responded to a report of a motor vehicle accident on the highway near Summerland BC. A vehicle that the client was driving had pulled out of a fruit stand and collided with a vehicle travelling at high speed. Thankfully no one was seriously hurt. When...


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“We tell ourselves stories in order to live.”
― Joan Didion, The White Album
“What the story teaches is that there is always another story and other stories have always been possible.”
Arthur W. Frank, The Wounded Storyteller
… as expressive writing enhances emotion regulation, it can play a key role in brain and immune physiology (Petrie, et al., 2004, Pennebaker, 2014).
…benefits of expressive writing come from identifying, labeling, and integrating negative emotions into the broader context of one’s life. (Baddeley & Pennebaker, 2011; de giacomo et al. 2010; Pennebaker & Evans, 2014; sloan & Marx, 2009)

domain: psychology


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However, we long to use purchased music freely as we like. Is there any solution? The purchased music can’t be played on other devices is because these devices can’t recognize the audio format. As you know, MP3 is a common and widely used format. Almost all of music players support MP3 format. So if we convert iTunes music to MP3, the problem is solved. We are very eager to have such a software to help relieve troubles this problem bring to us.
Well, Apple Music Converter for Mac is a perfect solution. This software can just perfectly solve your problem. This application removes DRM-protection from purchased iTunes so that it can easily convert iTunes music files to regular audio formats like MP3, AAC, AC3, AU, M4A, M4R, MKA, AIFF, and FLAC. After convertion, you can listen to your musics on any device such as iPad, iPhone, Archos, PSP, HTC, BlackBerry, tablets, smartphones, Walkman, and car MP3 CD players, etc. It offers a friendly and intuitive interface. You can use it to convert purchased music with several steps.
The following guide demonstrates how to convert purchased iTunes music to MP3 or other formats on Mac OS X without any restrictions or DRM protection.
Step 1. Launch M4P to MP3 Converter for Mac.Once the program started normally, the Apple itunes will be lauched automatically at the same time.
Step 2. Add iTunes Music.
Click the relevant Playlists category and select one or more iTunes music you want to convert. It is also available to choose the whole list by selecting the check box at the top of the list.Also you can easily find any music you want using the Search function in the upper right corner.
Step 4. Start ConversionClick the "Convert" button and begin to convert purchased iTunes music on Mac. Wait for converting and when it finished, the music you wanted will present to you well.
Done, Now you can play your converted iTunes music anywhere, anytime with no problem at all. If you purchased more music from iTunes — let Apple Music Converter for Mac be your assistant.

domain: entertainment


Nobel Sport #4 Buck?
Anybody ever try the stuff? I've got a plethora of shotgun loads for when I wring out my new gun, trying to find what it likes. These were at last night's gun show for $8.95 for a box of 10. Not bad, so I grabbed a couple boxes. Says Law Enforcement Buckshot, 2 3/4" 1325 fps. Just wondering if anybody's yet tried it.
Join the NRA/ILA
I am the weapon; my gun is a tool. It's regrettable that with some people those descriptors are reversed.


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ABRAM-VILLAGE – March 12, 2023 – Seven businesses, organizations and individuals, all extremely dedicated to their mission and community, were honored with glamour and sincerity on March 11 in Abram-Village at the 2023 Entrepreneurs’ Gala, the Acadian and Francophone Chamber of Commerce of PEI’s biggest entrepreneurial recognition event of the year.
« Once again this year, we have an amazing line-up of entrepreneurs and businesspeople as candidates for our awards of business excellence. We are very proud to see all the services offered by our entrepreneurs, organizations and businesspeople and to hear their wonderful success stories, » said Pierre Gallant, spokesperson for the Chamber in his welcome message for the evening. « You would think that after 21 editions of our banquet there would be no more candidates left to honour, but there are still a great number of deserving candidates.
« As always, we are especially proud of the very young entrepreneurs as well as the young adults who have gone into business during these difficult times! It’s so heartwarming to see them do so well! » he added. « Our finalists in the other categories are equally impressive as they have worked for so many years to deliver excellent services and products. In fact, all of our finalists deserve our praise and our trophies. »
He noted that seven of the 11 award nominees would walk away as trophy winners, « but the real winners are all the other people in the room and in our communities who benefit from your wonderful products and services. » So he thanked them sincerely.
The winners of the Gala awards were:
• 2023 BUSINESS OF EXCELLENCE AWARD – A.J. Repairs Ltd. (Justin Arsenault), Abram-Village (sponsored by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency);
• 2023 DISTINGUISHED EMPLOYEE AWARD – David Perry (Wellington Co-op), Wellington (sponsored by Innovation PEI);
• 2023 SOCIAL ECONOMY BUSINESS AWARD – Friends of the Farmers Bank of Rustico Inc. (sponsored by MacDonald Insurance & Investments – The Co-operators);
• 2023 YOUNG ENTREPRIZING PERSON AWARD – Francis-Olivier Morin, Montague (sponsored by CBDC Central PEI);
• 2022 YOUNG MILLIONAIRES AWARD – Caleb Lombardo and Léo Consejo Cadena (Seaside Treasures), Souris (sponsored by Radio-Canada Acadie);
• 2022 YM MOST DEVOTED MEDAL – Isabelle Gallant (Bijoux Isabelle), Cap-Egmont (sponsored by Arsenault Family Lumber);
• 2022 YM MOST POSITIVE MEDAL – Victor Corney (Great Stick), Charlottetown (sponsored by Arsenault Family Lumber).
During the evening, short biographical audio-visual montages of each of the finalists, by category, were shown. Each received a framed certificate from one of the sponsosr. The official sponsor of each award then presented the trophy to the winner. At the end of the evening, five entrepreneurs and businesspeople were also inducted into the CCAFLIPE’s Acadian and Francophone Business Hall of Fame of PEI.
PHOTO 1: Gathered at the end of the 2023 Acadian Entrepreneurs’ Gala, were, seated from left, Francis-Olivier Morin of Montague (winner of the 2023 Young Entreprising Person Award), Léo Consejo Cadena and Caleb Lombardo of Seaside Treasures of Souris (winners of 2022 Young Millionaires Award), and Justin Arsenault of A.J. Repairs Ltd (2023 Business Excellence Award). In the back row are: Pierre Gallant, spokesperson of the CCAFLIPE, David Perry of Wellington Co-op (winner of the 2023 Distinguished Employee Award), Bonnie Gallant, representing The Friends of the Farmers Bank of Rustico Inc. (winners of the 2023 Social Economy Business Award), and RDÉE PEI president, Dr. Christian Lacroix.
PHOTO 2: Acadian Chamber spokesperson Pierre Gallant had nothing but praise for the finalists and winners in his opening message to the crowd at the Entrepreneurs’ Gala Saturday.
Egmont MP Robert Morrissey, representing the sponsor the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, presents the 2023 Business of Excellence Award to Justin Arsenault from A.J. Repairs Ltd. of Abram-Village, with help from CCAFLIPE spokesperson Pierre Gallant.
2023 BUSINESS OF EXCELLENCE AWARD
A.J. Repairs Ltd. (Justin Arsenault)
Back in 2015, Justin Arsenault established A.J. Repairs, initially to do construction and mechanical repair projects of all kinds (from lawn mower engines to heavy equipment). In 2019, A.J. Repairs sold its first marine engine and became the exclusive distributor of MAN engines from Germany for the Tignish-to-Charlottetown area. These engines were chosen because of their emission reduction capabilities and the fact that they can be adapted to hydrogen and be used with hybrid engines. The company sells these engines, installs them and provides 24-hour service. Officially incorporated on Nov. 1, 2021, A.J. Repairs Ltd. is also a distributor of Köhler diesel and gas generators for the entire province. The company owns two transport trucks and a trailer, allowing it to deliver various products such as gravel, fertilizer and potatoes. In July 2022, Arsenault built a new 6,000-square-foot garage, allowing him to work on four boats at a time. The company provides work for three full-time, two part-time and one contract employee. (The other finalist in this category was Arsenault Family Lumber, owned by Janelle and Janine Arsenault of St. Chrysostome).
On behalf of sponsor, The Baie Acadienne Development Corporation, president Desmond Arsenault, second from left, presents certificates to the finalists in the 2023 Business of Excellence category, Justin Arsenault from A.J. Repairs Ltd. And to Janelle and Janine Arsenault from Arsenault Family Lumber.
Dr. Christian Lacroix, right, president of RDÉE PEI, and Pierre Gallant, left, spokesperson for the CCAFLIPE, present the 2023 Distinguished Employee Award to David Perry, grocery manager at the Wellington Co-op.
2023 DISTINGUISHED EMPLOYEE AWARD
David Perry (HMS Office Solutions)
David Perry has been an employee of the Wellington Co-op for 32 years. Prior to joining the Co-op, he worked as a car cleaner and mail carrier for the provincial government. David began his employment with the Co-op in 1992, initially working part-time in the hardware department; he was also responsible for the dairy and frozen goods sections. He was eventually offered the grocery manager job, a position he still holds today. David is known for his great smile and first-class customer service. What he loves most about his job is serving customers and helping to meet their needs. In all his years of service, this hard-working and loyal worker has seen many major changes at the Co-op, including the arrival of five different managers, staff turnover, a major renovation, the closing of the hardware department, the addition of the liquor store, two major food losses due to power outages, the closing of their main supplier, Co-op Atlantic, and the transition to buying products from Sobeys. (Other finalists in this category were Roger Caisse of St. Gilbert, an employee of HMS Office Solutions, and Jacinthe Laforest of Mont-Carmel, an employee of La Voix acadienne.)
RDÉE PEI vice-president Velma LeBlanc, second from right, presents certificates to the finalists in the 2023 Distinguished Employee category, from left, David Perry, Roger Caissie and Jacinthe Laforest.
Dan MacDonald, à la droite, de MacDonald Insurance and Investments, the official sponsor of the 2023 Social Economy Business Award, and Pierre Gallant from the Acadian Chamber, present the trophy to the Friends of the Farmers’ Bank of Rustico Inc. Bonnie Gallant accepted the award on the Friends’ behalf.
2023 SOCIAL ECONOMY BUSINESS AWARD
The Friends of the Farmers’ Bank of Rustico Inc.
The Friends of the Farmers’ Bank of Rustico Inc. is a volunteer organization that has been operating the Farmers’ Bank of Rustico, a National Historic Site of Canada, since 1996; the Doucet House, which they acquired in 1999 and began restoring in 2003; and the Credit Union Museum, which is dedicated to credit unions and which features a visitor’s information centre and a small gift store. All of these historic and tourist facilities are located in Rustico. The Farmers’ Bank was founded by Father Georges-Antoine Belcourt to meet the financial needs of Acadian farmers and fishermen of the community. The Bank is a national monument of architectural significance to the Island and a symbol of Acadian perseverance. This « people’s » bank served as an inspiration for the establishment of “caisses populaires” in Quebec and credit unions elsewhere in Canada. In 2022, as part of the 250th anniversary of the Doucet House, The Friends offered an experiential food program with traditional Acadian meals. They also established the successful Meat Pie Festival in all six Acadian regions of the Island (no other nominees were submitted in this category).
Representing the sponsor Clientis from Quebec, Robert Maddix presents a certificate to the single finalist of the 2023 Social Economy Business category, The Friends of the Farmers Bank of Rustico Inc. Bonnie Gallant accepted the certificate on the Friends’ behalf.
As official sponsor of the award, Claus Schmidt, left, executive director of the CBDC Central PEI, presents the 2023 Young Enterprising Person Award to Francis-Olivier Morin from Montague, assisted by CCAFLIPE spokesperson Pierre Gallant.
2023 YOUNG ENTERPRISING PERSON AWARD
Francis-Oliver Morin of Montague is very involved in his community. A recent graduate of École-François Buote, Francis-Olivier was the recipient of the Duke of Edinburgh Award and the Paul Charbonneau Scholarship in 2022. During his school years, he coached mini-handball for the six francophone schools on the Island and was a member of the provincial administrative committee for mini-handball. He has participated in the Jeux régionaux and the Jeux de l’Acadie in various roles and functions, has served on his school’s student council as a socio-cultural representative and has been a tutor for students needing a little extra help. Morin is a veteran of the scouting program and participated in the Francophone leadership program « Destination Clic » at the University of Quebec. He was also a member of the French-Language School Board’s orchestra and participated in the music festival in Halifax twice, winning a silver medal each time. Despite his busy schedule, he gave of his time once a week to help prepare breakfast for the students at his school to help them succeed in their studies. Francis-Olivier is a mechanical engineering student at the Université de Moncton (the other finalist in this category was Dawson Arsenault of St. Chrysostome.)
RDÉE Canada’s PEI board member, Dr Christian Lacroix, center, presents certificates to the two finalists of the 2023 Young Enterprising Person category, Dawson Arsenault, left, and Francis-Olivier Morin.
For the three Young Millionaires awards: Janine Arsenault from Arsenault Family Lumber, left, places the 2022 “Most Devoted” Medal around the neck of Isabelle Gallant from Bijoux Isabelle; Denis Duchesne from Radio-Canada Acadie, centre, presents the trophies for the 2022 Young Millionnaires Award to Léo Consejo Cadena and Caleb Lombardo from Seaside Treasures; and Janelle Arsenault from Arsenault Family Lumber places the 2022 “Most Positive” Medal around the neck of Victor Corney from Great Stick.
2022 YOUNG MILLIONAIRES AWARD
Léo Consejo Cadena and Caleb Lombardo
« Seaside Treasures », operated by co-owners Léo Consejo Cadena and Caleb Lombardo of Souris, is a business that uses sea glass to create unique canvases that depict the beauty of Prince Edward Island. Each of their paintings was different and unique! In addition to creating pieces to sell at a variety of venues throughout the summer, these young men were also commissioned to create original pieces for various clients. After a great summer of sales and profits of $650, these young businessmen plan to continue their entrepreneurial endeavors with Seaside Treasures next summer!
2022 YOUNG MILLIONAIRES MOST DEVOTED MEDAL
The daughter of Jeffrey and France Gallant of Cap-Egmont, Isabelle Gallant is the young owner of « Bijoux Isabelle ». This business specializes in making bracelets using beads, spacers, discs, polymer clay beads and elastics. She offered a variety of bracelets in different colors and sizes. Her most popular bracelet was probably her Acadian bracelet. During the summer of 2022, her business generated $750 in profits, which allowed her to purchase a tablet as a reward for all her hours of work!
2022 YOUNG MILLIONAIRES MOST POSITIVE MEDAL
Victor Corney of Charlottetown has just completed his fourth summer of entrepreneurship with his business « Great Stick ». This business has evolved into merchandise and a name change. Initially, the partnership business was called « Une petite affaire d’eau » and sold reusable water bottles with a decorative sticker as well as sticker replacements. During the summer of 2022, as a sole owner, he focused exclusively on selling different stickers so he changed the name of his business to « Great Stick ». Last summer, his efforts earned him a grand total of $266 in net profits.
RDÉE PEI treasurer Edmond Gallant, left, presents a Young Millionaires finalist certificate to Isabelle Gallant from Bijoux Isabelle; RDÉE youth development officer Julie Gallant, centre, presents certificates to Léo Consejo Cadena and Caleb Lombardo from Seaside Treasures; and RDÉE board member Hélène Duranleau-Reid presents a certificate to Victor Corney from Great Stick.
For more information:
Raymond J. Arsenault
2023 Entrepreneurs’ Gala
Acadian and Francophone Chamber of Commerce of PEI

domain: economics


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Hello March, goodbye February....and how are you all?
Firstly apologies for this blog being a little delayed....I've been trying to complete my latest work to show you and have also been a little sidetracked from that by keeping up with things at the allotment, ready for the growing season.
To be honest if I were punctual and organised, well, it just wouldn't be me. It used to be my new years resolution....I'd roll it out every year..."this year I will be more organised"...and every year I'd fail at this. To try and cut myself a bit of slack and take the pressure off being this new organised superwoman I now just try and accept myself as I am (this doesn't always work I might add). And so here it is...the 'February' blog, a couple of weeks later than planned but better late than never, as they say.
I hope you are all as well as can be, my thoughts recently have been with friends who have lost loved ones and also those who have been very unwell - both physically and mentally. It's been a horrible time for many and I hope we can all look out for each other and hold onto the thought that things will eventually get better, that we can see a light at the end of this tunnel. I struggle with anxiety and depression myself, have done since as far back as I can remember, some days good, some bad but always trying to hang onto the things that save my sanity such as being outdoors, nature, the allotment and my creativity. I can empathise with anyone who has mental health issues, it's never easy and to non sufferers it's hard to understand. So I'm sending you all a bloody big hug, hang in there and I'm so looking forward to seeing some of you this summer, fingers crossed. We'll eat cake, drink tea (wine) and put the world to rights!
So....what's the latest at The Lady Garden...erm...the allotment, that is. Well, we've had some pretty extreme weather here and on one of the coldest days we had three tons of cow manure delivered, which also happened to be Valentines Day. Nice! Who says romance is dead?! Myself and Mr C spent a lovely few hours shovelling it into wheelbarrows and taking it onto the plot.....happy days! There's just something about coffee out of a flask...I'm just not sure what ;-)
Since that freezing cold and rather pungent day it's become milder and given me chance to start working said cow poop into the soil and also to sow the first of this years seeds, with the help (questionable) of my trusty sidekick the nutty terrier - aka fierce guard-pup, scrounger and persistent whinger - Milly.
Broad beans, plus some of my favourite herbs and Cavalo Nero kale all sown and the kale is already up! I always feel a buzz of excitement at this time of year for all the plants that are already growing, will grow and for the onset of spring, new life, hope and the return of the light and colour that comes with it. After the past twelve months I'm sure this is something we are all looking forward to.
Spindly Toadstools and my inspiration.....
Onto some textile talk now and something I've been working on the last few weeks and have been so looking forward to showing you. This is something that had been buzzing around in my head for quite some time and was inspired by the tall spindly toadstools I find growing on my forays into nature. They are also inspired by my love of and interest in fairytale and folklore. It's hard to put it into words but when I find a patch of these little shrooms I'm overcome by this feeling that they are magical and wonderous. I take numerous photos...often getting down to ground level, then I walk away but have to double back to have another look as if trying to lose myself in this tiny perfect world for a moment and what must be a mighty forest to the tiny folk and creatures that live amongst them.
I always marvel at those long spindly stalks and how fragile they seem but strong they must be to hold the weight of those perfect caps. It's as if they have been draw up to this length searching for the light. Call me bonkers but I find them just so magical and beautiful yet also a little sinister as many of them hold the danger of being poisonous and deadly. I'm drawn to admire but respect the toadstool. I wish I could put just how they make me feel and inspire me a little better in words but then I'd probably be a writer not a maker if I had such skills.....so I'll just waffle on and you'll hopefully get my drift.
So inspiration found and materials already sought - in this case a vintage cotton sheet from my extensive stash, I set about creating what was in my head and what these real life shrooms made me feel. The vintage sheet is an important factor here, to reuse and repurpose a preloved item is deeply embeded in my values and the quality and thickness of this cotton is perfect and hard to find in a modern fabric. After a little experimentation and a large helping of whimsy I created what I could see in my minds eye....I didn't want to create a replica of the real thing, these needed to conjour up the fairytale stories and feelings from childhood...and beyond. Just like my velvet shrooms these are quirky and whimsical and have allowed me to dabble in some mixed media, which I love doing.
I also delve into a favourite book or two sometimes to get myself into the mindset and feeling of making something magical, or if my inspiration wanes a little. They're always something faery or folklore related...but not the sweet sugar plum fairy style of thing.....I like my fairytales to be a bit edgy like the Brothers Grimm style fairytales I used to read as a child. Maybe this is where my fascination of the darker side of toadstools stems from too.
Whimsical, quirky or even sinister I hope my new spindly shrooms, grown tall as they reach for the light, will bring a bit of fairytale and escapism into your world too. They are also a pop of colour in the traditional Fly Agaric colours or muted and mystical in soft pinks. All are created from that beautiful vintage cotton sheet and have tea dyed slightly grungy stalks....they have been plucked off the forest floor after all!
The Primrose is a flower steeped in folklore although stories vary and different regions have different beliefs. It is thought they show the gateway to the faery kingdom and a primrose at the doorway encourages faeries to come in. Other stories say it protects you from the faeries and from bad luck brought about by such....as they are not all good and can be mischievous or even dangerous. As the faery kingdom also includes goblins and elves amongst others then maybe it filters out the bad spirits. I like to see it this way.
.....and a few with vintage and antique lace.....
Feedback and comments about my work and blog are always welcome...as I'm a blogging novice and seem to follow my own rules it's always good to know if I'm on the right track ;-)
I'd love to know what you've been up to this past month, your ways of coping with whatever challenges you face and your loves and inspirations too.
Love, hugs and magical wishes, Suzanne x


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NEW HAVEN, Jan. 22. -- The closing functions of Yale's social week were held to-day, the final and chief event being the annual junior promenade this morning in the Second Regiment Armory. View Full Article in Timesmachine »
Full text is unavailable for this digitized archive article. Subscribers may view the full text of this article in its original form through TimesMachine.

domain: news


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JAMESTOWN, NY (WNY News Now) — After weeks of cleaning, restoration, and renovation, the Fenton History Center is just a week away from reopening.
At the Fenton History Center community members and trustees came together to accomplish the hefty renno task.
“Well we’ve been closed all of January, we had a lot of work to do between cleaning all of the exhibits and renovations on the first floor. As most people know, we had the leaky roof which is repaired for now. But we had ceilings and walls that needed to be repaired. So we started that on January 9th which was our first day to be closed and was an all volunteer crew,” explains Director Jane Babinsky.
The building, which was built in 1863, was the home of Reuben E. Fenton, a state Governor, Congressman, and Senator.
“If you don’t do the upkeep in an old building, it falls apart. Which is what the city found when they purchased the building in 1919,” says Babinsky. “It had been empty for many many years and the roof was bad, they had areas of flooring that had fallen in that they had to replace. So we don’t want that to happen again. It’s very important that as the historical society, we have to be dedicated to taking care of this historic building.”
The history center is working to update their exhibits as well, working with educators to bring in more school groups. In fact, they hired a new curator and education coordinator from Palm Springs California to help.
“I was in a museum as well, the Coachella Valley History Museum and I was doing program development. That’s what I’d love to do here actually is to pursue the education part of it also and get that going. Our education program to get schools back again post- COVID,” says Therese Avedillo, curator and education coordinator.
She will not only curate exhibits, but also create events to showcase the history of Jamestown and get the community involved.
“We have our gala because it’s our sixty year anniversary this July, this summer. And so that is our big event. We would like people to see the Jamestown that was and especially during that time sixty years ago when it opened and we’d like to highlight all through the years what has happened in the museum from then til now,” says Avedillo.
The Fenton History Center plans to reopen February 1.

domain: history


Apple’s AirPods vs Amazon’s Echo Buds – Which is Best For 2021?
Welcome to our Echo Buds vs AirPods! When you think of wireless earbuds you almost certainly think of Apple’s sleek AirPods. But since their introduction years ago, the wireless earbud market has exploded with competitors.
Amazon is the latest tech giant to enter the sector, with the release of the upcoming Amazon Echo Earbuds at the end of October. But just how do the Echo Buds match up with Apple’s second-generation AirPods? Let’s find out.
Apple’s AirPods 2 vs Amazon’s Echo Buds in 2021
Before we delve into the AirPods vs Echo Buds comparison, it’s important to note that this original VS was written back in 2019. Since then, Apple has introduced the AirPods Pro, which add advanced features like noise cancelation to the little buds.
However, even in 2021, Apple still sells the original AirPods (2nd generation). Those are the AirPods we talk about in this comparison. And they’re still fantastic AirPods even in 2021. Of course, the AirPods Pro are better–but we aren’t comparing them here. If you want to see how Apple AirPods Pro stacks up to the AirPods (2nd generation) that we talk about here, check out our VS on Apple’s AirPods Pro vs AirPods here.
Apple’s AirPods 2 vs Amazon’s Echo Buds
When it comes to design, the AirPods are the iconic ones. That flower “stem” design is a thing of beauty. Amazon’s Echo Buds, on the other hand, are kind of shaped like bolts you push into your ears.
- AirPods 2 – Apple’s AirPods are made to be as tiny and fashion-conscious as possible. It’s a minimalist device that doesn’t even have any physical buttons. And their white body is virtually iconic by now
- Echo Buds – The Echo Buds, on the other hand, features a less sleek design. They come in black and they also include a selection of three differently-sized ear tips so you can choose the right fit for your ear.
Winner? AirPods – Their design still outshines the newer Echo Buds. They’re tiny works of art.
Audio & Connectivity
The AirPods, without a doubt, have the better connectivity. That’s because they use traditional Bluetooth, but also have the H1 chipset which makes your iPhone pick them up instantly. The Echo Buds only rely on Bluetooth.
However, the Echo Buds do have something the AirPods do not: noise reduction technology. This uses software to eliminate background noise. It’s important to note, however, that it is not true noise cancellation technology. Neith the AirPods or the Echo Buds have that.
- AirPods 2 – The AirPods include dual beam-forming microphones, dual optical sensors, a motion-detecting accelerometer, and a speech-detecting accelerometer. They also connect over both Bluetooth and Apple’s H1 chip, which makes connecting them to an iPhone effortless.
- Echo Buds – The Echo Buds also feature dual beam-forming microphones and an accelerometer, as well as connecting over Bluetooth too. But where they have a leg up on the AirPods is in their Bose Active Noise Reduction technology. To be clear, this is noise-isolating tech, not noise-canceling tech.
Winner? Echo Buds – The AirPods have better mics, but the noise isolating tech of the Echo Buds means you’ll be able to block out more external sounds with them than you can with the AirPods.
Battery & Charging
Both the Echo Bud and the AirPods will get you about five hours of use on a single charge and their charging case will get you about 4-5 charges each. However, the AirPods offer a wireless charging case option, which means you can charge up the pods just by placing them on a Qi-compatible charging mat.
- AirPods 2 – The AirPods come in a wired charging case and wireless charging case option. One charge gets you five hours of use and a full case charge gets you over 24 hours of use.
- Echo Buds – The Echo Buds also get you 5 hours of use and their case gets you 20 hours in total. However, the Echo Buds do not have a wireless charging case option.
Winner? AirPods – They have better battery life and the optional wireless charging case.
It’s the eternal battle: which is the better voice assistant? Siri or Alexa. If you are tied into the Apple ecosystem, Siri is generally the one to use. However, if you use a lot of Amazon services, Alexa is going to be the better all-around choice.
- AirPods 2 – The AirPods support hands-free “Hey Siri” commands as well as giving you full access to all of Siri’s capabilities.
- Echo Buds – The Echo Buds support hands-free Alexa commands. However, they also support Siri and Google Assistant via tap controls. These voice assistants aren’t built into the Buds, but if you have an iPhone or Pixel phone, you can use the Buds to interact with those assistants.
Winner? Echo Buds – Alexa is generally a better assistant than Siri anyway, but the Buds also support two more voice assistants too.
The Echo Buds are a very attractive product considering their lower price point. The fact they also support third-party voice assistants and offer noise isolation is a nice touch too. Given their lower price, better sound quality, excellent built-in voice assistant, and the fact that they use Bose’s noise-canceling technology, I’d be inclined to go with a pair of these over Apple’s AirPods.
That makes them perfect for most people with Android phones. However, if you use an iPhone, Apple’s AirPods are going to be the earbuds you want thanks to their deep integration into Apple’s ecosystem.
Apple’s AirPods 2 vs Amazon’s Echo Buds: Specs
Here are the specs for the new AirPods:
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, H1 chip
- Wireless charging: Yes
- Battery Life: 5 hours AirPod use, 24+ hours with charging case
- Sensors: Dual beam-forming microphones, Dual optical sensors, Motion-detecting accelerometer, Speech-detecting accelerometer
- Voice assistant support: Siri
- Noise Isolation: No
- Sweat-resistant: No
And here are the specs for the Echo Buds:
- Connectivity: Bluetooth
- Wireless charging: No
- Battery Life: 5 hours Echo Buds use, 20+ hours with charging case
- Sensors: Dual beam-forming microphones, Accelerometer, proximity, touch
- Voice assistant support: Alexa, Siri, Google Assistant
- Noise Isolation: Bose Active Noise Reduction Technology
- Sweat-resistant: Yes


Just when we thought the battle for smartphones is coming to an end this year, OPPO Mobile have decided to throw a shocker at smartphone lovers. Yes, its a shocker because the OPPO A9 2020 complete specifications shows that OPPO is ready to join in the battle for best smartphones.
OPPO newly released a new device into the market and its the OPPO A9 2020. Sometime in April 2019, OPPO announced the release of the OPPO A9. Just about 5 months five months later they are bringing an upgrade of the OPPO A 9 and its the OPPO A9 2020. Truth is, while the likes of iPhone 11 series and the OnePlus 7T battles for fast internet browsing, OPPO is actually targeting camera users.
The most interesting features of this new device will have to be its camera and battery capacity. At first glance one can hardly tell if the OPPO A9 2020 is actually a flagship or midrange device. Let’s get to see the OPPO A9 2020 complete specifications by summarizing its features.
OPPO A9 2020 Build and Display
The phone has a 6.5 inches screen size and its display type is IPS LCD capacitative touchscreen, 16M colors. It is packed with double SIM(Nano SIM) with a 720 x 1600 pixels(~270 PPI density). Its weight is about 197g which makes it heavier than the Apple iPhone 11 Pro but lighter than the iPhone 11 Pro Max.
OPPO A9 2020 Chipset and Storage
The OPPO A9 2020 is powered by Qualcomm SDM665 Snapdragon 665 (11 nm). Its CPU is clocked at Octa-core (4×2.0 GHz Kryo 260 Gold & 4×1.8 GHz Kryo 260 silver) with a GPU of Adreno 610. OPPO have created room for external memory of microSD up to 256GB along with a huge internal storage space of 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM.
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OPPO A9 2020 Cameras
The phone camera has g to be one or the most interesting part of its features. OPPO A9 2020 come with a quad camera. Yes it has four cameras at the back. The the iPhone 11 series has three, OnePlus 7T also has three but this device has four. And the back cameras is supported with dual flashlight to support night pictures. For selfie lovers, its front camera is a single 16MP guaranteed to take good photos. We know that OPPO has always been about cameras and they didn’t disappoint users with this one.
OPPO A9 2020 Software and Battery
The OPPO A9 2020 runs on the Android 9.0(pie); ColorOS 6.1. The company understands that you need to use this phone for a long time hence they packed it with a 5000mAh battery. And it also has a reverse charging technology. We have put together the complete specifications of the OPPO A9 2020 below:
OPPO A9 2020 – Complete Specifications:
One could say that what the OPPO A9 2020 lacked in processing speed it gained in its battery and cameras. For a midrange device, the phone is not so bad and for photo lovers the phone will do just fine. It won’t do so well with heavy duty games though but should be fine with basic games and should provide a great experience for movie lovers.
Where To Buy The OPPO A9 2020 in Nigeria
You can buy the OPPO A9 2020 from GSM Store and have delivered to you at home. Click Here to check out the phone on GSM Store and see the great photos and the awesome screen display of this device. (Link to purchase this phone will be made available soon)


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Premium for top university city homes
The higher-than-average house price growth in top university cities is making it difficult for talented individuals to stay on and work locally after graduation. Research4 has shown that in the period 2009 to 2018 house prices in London have risen 76.3%, in Cambridge 73.4% and in Oxford 66.8%. This represents growth 25% higher than the national average.
Long term it is feared that the lack of affordable housing could hinder further economic growth and there is a call for local plans to include homes for key workers and for higher density development.
4Bidwells, July 2019


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author: Adrian Werner
Ton of Diablo 4 Videos, Gameplays and Character Creator in Action
Fresh videos from Diablo 4 have appeared online, showing combat, the city of Kyovashad and the character creator, among other things.
A large set of new videos has appeared on Wowhead, showing various aspects of Diablo 4. The developers also gave an interview to IGN. The videos show:
- Character creator,
- Gameplay footage, showing rogue, sorceress and barbarian in action,
- a short walk through the city of Kyovashad.
As you can see, the videos are very diverse and give a good idea of the direction the project is heading.
- Wowhead - new footage of Diablo 4
These and other videos are now appearing because numerous trade journalists recently had the opportunity to spend considerable time with Diablo IV.
Recall that the game is coming to PC and Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S and PlayStation 5.
Blizzard Entertainment has not revealed the official release date for Diablo 4 for now. Yesterday, however, credible rumors surfaced, according to which the title will be released on June 5 or 6, 2023 (depending on the time zone).
We won't have to wait long for confirmation or denial of these reports. The game is scheduled to appear at The Game Awards event, which will take place in a dozen hours or so. The event will kick off on December 9 at 1:30 a.m. CET / 4:30 pm PT. We expect to get a new trailer and an official release date for the game during the event.
- Diablo 4 - official website
- Blizzard Entertainment - official website


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Funyuns are a fun, onion-flavored cornmeal snack made by Frito Lay. If you love your snacks to be a bit salty, a bit crunchy and with a delicious onion-ring inspired flavor – well, these bags of snacks are calling your name! But, most importantly for those of us who are Celiac or allergic to gluten – Are Funyuns gluten free? Let’s find out…
Are Funyuns gluten free? Yes, with a caution
Yay! We can say that for most people, Funyuns snacks are safe to eat! These fun little bags of snacks are made with entirely gluten-free ingredients. The main ingredient in Funyuns is actually cornmeal – which is gluten free!
These snacks are considered gluten free, although they haven’t been certified as such. Due to the manufacturing process of Funyuns, Frito-Lay hasn’t had them labelled as gluten free. (The manufacturing lines these snacks are made on also produce snacks that DO contain wheat. But, the manufacturer says there are stringent cleaning procedures done between processing batches of snacks, so most people will be perfectly fine.)
BUT…if you are especially sensitive to even minute amounts of gluten due to cross-contamination, then you probably should not eat these snacks. For many people who avoid gluten, these snacks will be okay. But, since they’re not certified gluten free, there will be some people who should not eat these.
Conclusion – Gluten free Funyuns?
For many people Funyuns will be a safe gluten free snack choice. This is because their main ingredient is corn, and all the other ingredients used in making these are gluten free as well. But, if you need to avoid any possibility of cross-contamination, then you might not want to risk eating these. This is especially true, of course, if you have been diagnosed with Celiac disease. You’ll know best what is safe for your body to consume. Happy – and safe – snacking everyone!
Gluten Free Snack Articles You might like…
- Are Oreos Gluten free? Gluten free Oreo options
- Are Twizzlers gluten free?
- Are gummy bears gluten free?
- Is Chex cereal gluten free?
- Is popcorn gluten free?
This post contains affiliate links, meaning we could earn a commission on sales made via our links. At no extra cost to you, of course. Thank you!

domain: food


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An Intuitive Wine Grower’s Works from Bierzo
Raúl Pérez vineyards in DO Bierzo. Photo by Friederike Paetzold, Vinimenta
Raúl Pérez is a very prolific winemaker. During a visit with him not long ago, I asked him how many wines he makes. He joked, “Do you mean the wines I make at my winery, the wines I make with friends, or my consulting projects?” In a 2013 Wine Spectator article, Raúl guessed the number was over 200. In recent years, Raúl has continued projects across Spain (Bierzo, Rías Baixas, Ribeira Sacra, Monterrei, Tierra de León, Vinos de Madrid, Cebreros) while he has launched new wines from Portugal’s Douro with Dirk Neipoort, South Africa’s Swartland with Eben Sadie, Bordeaux, Argentina and Chile.
Subtlety and Nuance
Raúl has a powerful, husky build and a cheerful, cherubic character. He doesn’t stay in one place for long. Among his vines or barrels, he’s in constant motion, a hummingbird flitting from blossom to blossom. To contrast, Raúl’s ability to focus on your words in conversation is striking. He’s a very good listener. Avoiding anything overt or bold, Raúl admires subtlety and nuance, qualities apparent in his wines. Raúl intently listens to his terruños (terroirs) and makes wines that communicate a clear sense of place. Rather than intervene as a “great winemaker,” Raúl chooses to faithfully transmit the story that each terroir has to tell. Over the past two years, Raúl’s prominent beard has lent him a monastic appearance, but his playful warmth and brilliant intelligence constantly animate him. An impish smile and easy laugh punctuate his almost every sentence.
Part of Castile-León, Spain’s largest autonomous region, DO Bierzo is more like “Green Spain” in climate and topology than Ribera del Duero or Toro. These regions of Castile feature a seemingly endless expanse of low-hilled landscape many shades of earthy brown, regularly broken up by páramos (flattened hilltops). The land seems to stretch forth inexorably, like an ocean. In contrast, Bierzo’s rolling hills are lush, verdant, and many shades of green. With some peaks over 900 meters elevation, Bierzo feels like an enchanted forest, a mystical place that holds hidden treasures.
Terroir in Bierzo
Minutes after meeting, we’re driving to Raúl’s countless small parcels. He points out his family’s vineyards near Valtuille, a place he considers Bierzo’s most important wine growing village. Of Bierzo’s total of around 6,000 hectares (15,000 acres), Valtuille has 600 (10%), all owned by family growers. Raúl’s family owns vines in a densely planted area around the village of Valtuille de Abajo, 14-15 hectares (about 38 acres) farmed by 300 growers. Each holding is a tiny parcel of a mere 3-4 rows. With incredible topography, the hillsides look like three massive, undulating ocean waves, but instead of sea foam, each is composed of vibrant, lime green vines.
Beyond one wave is an area that is part of the village of Villadecanes, and past another is Cacabelos. Each hillside’s numerous parcels contain different soil types, visible as vigorous dark, lighter clay, or compact light grey clay, respectively. Each parcel has a different exposure, maturation, harvest date and name. Vine vigor on the same hillside can vary from 20 to 10 bunches per vine. Raúl explains that the village of Corullón, where Alvaro Palacios and nephew Ricardo Perez have their bodega Descendientes de J. Palacios, has a more Mediterranean climate (relatively dry, warm), while this area is more Atlantic (wet, cold).
Raúl calls his mentor Alvaro Palacios “the most important person in this region” who changed the concept of winemaking in Bierzo. In 1999, Alvaro and Ricardo made their first Bierzo wines at Castro Ventosa, the winery owned by Raúl’s family. Alvaro stressed vineyard work and quality of the grapes. Before Alvaro, Bierzo had big companies who bought fruit from family growers and made bulk wines with little regard for viticulture. The concept of terroir-driven wines didn’t exist. From 1999-2001, numerous high profile projects were begun, and, today there are many styles of wine made in Bierzo. Raúl was winemaker at Castro Ventosa from 1993 until 2004, when he left to found his own winery, Bodegas y Viñedos Raul Pérez.
Retaining the vine’s genetic diversity
We visit the other parcel blended to make Raúl’s Ultreia de Valtuille, 115-year-old vines planted in a field blend, mostly Mencía, along with Doña Blanca, Godello, Sousón and Merenzao. Clay and sandy soils are typical of this area, called Villeras. To replant, Raúl does a careful selección masal, wherein a number of vines are taken from each parcel to retain the genetic diversity of the plants. He works the soil rather than use herbicides, the local tradition. Two parcels that cover 1.7 hectares (4.25 acres) produce grapes for 13-15 barrels. Low yields (2,000-2,500 kilos per hectare) result in 4,200 bottles for the world each vintage.
Past Ponferrada, near the village of San Esteban de los Barrios, twelve parcels cover three hectares (7.5 acres). Cooler conditions than Valtuille result in harvest three weeks later. One part has red clay, the other schist. Wild lavender grows here, but not in Valtuille. Two or three barrels come from 80-year-old vines at 800-900 meters elevation. Hard bedrock is under thin topsoil, as in Ribeira Sacra or Priorat. Raúl’s vines are small, with miniscule bunches and berries, while his neighbor’s vines have large bunches and big vegetation. “They’re only thinking about production, not quality,” he explains.
We spot a parcel with fractured stones, clay and big stones atop the hill, and Raúl exclaims, “This is my Ferrari. The most interesting part is the north-facing parcels with fresh winds. The other parcel is hot and the vines look different.” Fifty meters on, schist soils show a distinct aspect. “It’s very important to know the soils, we think about the parcels when we’re working in the winery. Here, I use 100% of the stems. I do long skin contact, macerations for two-three months. With the other parcel, I use 50% of stems with 30-35 days maceration. Here, I do pigeage (punching down) every day; the other one, I don’t intervene.” Brimming with birds, insects and scurrying rabbits, a fecund energy emanates from Raúl’s parcel while his neighbor’s appears dry and lifeless.
Tasting Raúl’s Local Wines
Like Picasso’s works, Raúl’s Bierzo wines are compelling, alluring and profound sensory and intellectual experiences. Made from two parcels, Ultreia de Valtuille shows complex mineral, spicy, crushed red fruit and forest floor aromas, with an array of violets, cured meat, licorice, camphor and earthy notes.
A blend of parcels, Ultreia St. Jacques has fresh, tart red and blue berry aromas that become linear, focused, mineral-inflected flavors that gain heft on the palate, with graphite, red currant and green leaf traces.
Also blended parcels, Vico exhibits spicy cherry pit, red currant and bitter cherry aromas before focused, chewy, structured palate flavors, with cassis notes.
Made from 100% Godello, Ultreia La Claudina’s explosive profusion of aromas show astounding minerality, with stone fruits, smoke and burned rope notes. This wine evokes the power and finesse of the legendary Grand Cru white Burgundies Montrachet and Batard Montrachet.
From a vineyard planted in 1901, Ultreia Cova de la Raposa has dark wild berry, Asian spice, incense and lavender aromas and flavors. From a 100% pizarra (slate) vineyard, Ultreia de Paluexas shows red and black berry, exotic spice and incense aromas and flavors, all underlined by intense, earthy minerality.
Chris Fleming is a journalist who has been published in The World of Fine Wine, The New York Times, The Wine Spectator and others. His “day job” is wine sales for importer Domenico Valentino Selections in New York. Recently, Chris earned WSET’s Level 3 Award in Wines and Spirits. He has lectured at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and he has taught wine classes at some of New York’s premier culinary schools. Previously, Chris has worked for U.S. importers Kobrand Corp., Olé Imports and Frederick Wildman & Sons. In 2008, Chris was Technical Advisor on a DVD produced for the Vibrant Rioja campaign in the US by the Culinary Institute of America. This disk has been distributed in over twenty countries.


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Reby Hardy blasted Matt Hardy on social media over their marriage, hinting he is more interested in another woman and maybe cheated.
Reby Hardy Has Marriage Problems, Hints Matt Hardy Cheated
Social media has positives and negatives. There is no denying that comment.
One of the biggest problems seems to be the need to have your private life posted for everyone to see. It works for some, like Matt Cardona (WWE’s Zack Ryder), who used those platforms to keep his job.
A few days after the New Year, Reby Hardy posted something interesting on TikTok.
The short clip shows Reby and her family, including Matt Hardy, celebrating on December 31, 2022. We know that because the date has been inserted into the video.
The final few seconds show only Reby sitting on a throne with January 1, 2024 placed on-top of the clip. She does not say anything.
It was tagged with the following: Oh. #househardy #newyear #newyearnewme #trauma #depression #heartbreak #drama reby hardy. Naturally, people think what the Hardy household is having problems.
Reby continued to post on social media over the last day. She noted Matt has CTE, but then deleted that post.
Then, she also dropped more claims about Matt being involved with another woman. Clearly, she does not a problem posting about their life for the world to see.
Once you post something online, it is really there forever. You can delete something, but that does not magically resolve the issue.
Hopefully, the two sides can get back on track. They have a children, so taking care of them is the most important thing.
So, if Reby Hardy thinks Matt Hardy cheated on their marriage, why post it all over social media?


text:
'No logic in giving PA further control'
Ya'alon links fight against terror, PC values
Watch: Onlookers applaud as terrorist apprehended
United Nations Resolution 181, November 29, 1947
Pro-Israel activism TODAY - we need you
Stop Trying to Placate The Arab Terrorists!!
The death knell for Women's Studies
Prof. Phyllis Chesler
How to win in asymmetric warfare
Chimera of the "substantial void"
Netanyahu orders: 'Break contact' with European Union
US lawmaker worried about Americans back from ISIS combat
IDF resumes search for missing soldier Guy Hever
'We created a country in order to live here forever'
Gaza's 'Hitler 2' store spawns copycat
'Muted' reaction to Magal scandal in religious sector
Battered by terrorism, can Jerusalem get back on its feet?
1/15/2014, Shevat 14, 5774
USD: 3.48 NIS
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Euro down 0.32% to 4.7543 NIS.

domain: politics


Def Leppard's Setlist Dilemma
The Sheffield giants are preparing to tour the US with Poison and Lita Ford, and the frontman vows to give fans what the want – as long as the fans keep letting the band have their own way from time to time.
"People come to hear what they know. The only place people go psychologically prepared for an hour of brand-new music is an open mic night in some little bar," Elliott tells KFAB. "You don't go to Madison Square Garden expecting to hear two hours of brand new Paul McCartney, Def Leppard, Roger Waters or the Who. You go to see Quadrophenia, something you've owned for 40 years. That's what these gigs are."
Classic Rock Magazine is an official news provider for antiMusic.com.


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If you plan to give money to a presidential candidate via a text message, you should know that as much as 50 percent of your donation will go toward text-message fees. In other words, the $50 that you give to President Barack Obama or Republican challenger Mitt Romney can become as little as $25.
In August 2012, Federal Election Commission (FEC) ruled that presidential campaigns could accept donations that come from a text message, and both campaigns began to accept text-message donations soon after.
But various fees are charged that are related to such text-message transactions.
Text-message donations are subject to the same commercial rates or fees that wireless telecommunication companies (or carriers) can charge when a consumer purchases a product via a text message, such as a ring tone, according to CTIA-The Wireless Association, which is an organization that represents the wireless telecommunications industry.
In addition, third-party companies that collect campaign donations on behalf of a carrier and pass the money along to the respective campaigns also charge a fee, CTIA spokesperson Amy Storey says.
Although carriers have to disclose that donation fees will apply, it’s unknown exactly how much of that donation might go toward fees.
According to information that FEC provides, a collection aggregator indicated that 30 percent to 50 percent of a donation could go toward fees.
Sprint Nextel, T-Mobile USA, U.S. Cellular and Verizon Wireless allow customers to send text donations. At press time, AT&T was in the process of negotiating a fee rate with FEC with the intent of allocating a higher percentage of the donation toward a campaign.
Although it’s each campaign’s responsibility to pay for text-message-donation fees, it’s unclear whether text-message-donation fees are deducted immediately or whether a campaign pays the fees from its general campaign fund (which would mean that funds that are raised from other donation methods could be used).
Consumers Digest contacted representatives for Obama and Romney to determine how each campaign pays for text-message-donation fees, but neither campaign responded.
Consumers, who plan to donate via text message, also should be aware that they would be able to contribute only $50 per carrier billing cycle and $200 per campaign cycle, according to CTIA.
– K. Fanuko


text: Indiana State Parks will once again offer the popular annual Fitness Challenge. The challenge encourages visitors to walk, run, bike, paddle or swim at least 25 miles, or ride on horseback 100 miles, by Nov. 30. Those who do will be entered into a drawing for prizes, including a 2018 Annual Entrance Pass, Outdoor Indiana magazine subscriptions, DNR camping gift cards and State Park Inns gift cards. As a bonus to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Indiana’s system of Nature Preserves this year, anyone who completes 50 miles of hiking inside state-dedicated nature preserves will be entered in a second drawing for prizes. The second drawing also includes an annual pass and gift cards. Participants must download and keep a Fitness Challenge log that documents their visits to state parks. One change this year is that participants no longer need to get a signature from a park employee during each workout. Participation is based on the honor system. The log, and additional information on the challenge, is at dnr.IN.gov/healthy.

domain: hobby


The Huawei Honor Holly 4 has gotten unveiled in India and is now available via Honor partner stores across the nation. Like its predecessors, the smartphone belongs to the budget market sector thanks to a Rs 11999 price tag.
Design-wise, the Honor Holly 4 looks like most other affordable Android phones available nowadays. It’s got a metallic design complete with soft sandblasting at the rear for a smooth texture. A fingerprint scanner has been placed below the 13MP primary camera.
Huawei touts that the fingerprint reader can unlock the device in 0.5 seconds, snap photos, browse images, answer calls, and end alarms. As for the 13MP shooter, it’s accompanied by Phase Detection Auto Focus (PDAF) and an LED flash unit. The former apparently makes it possible to capture stills within 0.5 seconds.
The Honor Holly 4 also comes with an optimized 3020mAh battery that can maintain 80% or more of its capacity even after it’s been put through 800 recharges. In terms of numbers, it’s supposed to go on for 12 hours of HD video playback, 28 hours of 2G talk time, and 57 hours of music playback.
Check out the specs of the Honor Holly 4:
– OS: Android 7.0 Nougat-based EMUI 5.1
– Display: 5-inch, 720 x 1280 pixels
– CPU: octa-core Snapdragon 430
– Camera: 13MP rear, 5MP front
– Battery: 3020mAh
– Storage: 32GB, expandable up to 128GB
– RAM: 3GB
– Weight: 144g
– Size: 143.7 x 70.95 x 8.2mm
– Connectivity: 4G VoLTE, Bluetooth 4.1, dual-SIM, GPS, Wi-Fi, microUSB 2.0, USB OTG