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One Woman Hamlet: Shake(speare) the Stigma on Mental Health parallels the story of Shakespeare’s Hamlet with Kate’s journey as a creative dealing with mental illness. Come prepared to laugh, cry, and break some stigma as Kate tells you her story using Shakespeare, puppetry, and music. Brought to the screen by a female identified team, this is not your average Hamlet.
One Woman Hamlet was originally created as a theatrical production, which would tour into Chicago public schools via the show’s partner Hope For The Day (www.hftd.org), an organization that achieves suicide prevention through mental health education and outreach, these plans were put on hold due to Covid-19. Over the past year, suicide rates have skyrocketed and the isolation and instability we are all facing is proof that we are in need of more content that speaks to mental health and the stigma that surrounds it in our communities. Which is why Kate, and the award-winning and professional film team of Kseni Avonavi, Ayesha Abouelazm, and Brian Naughton have come together to create a filmed version, where Kate speaks directly to you in your home. The hope is to either offer this filmed version to Chicago schools, or to continue to tour when it is safe to do so.
- The show will be offered for free in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month.
- The premier screening will be live streamed with a live Q&A to follow:
- When: May 27th, 7:30 PM CST.
- Where to Watch: https://watch.eventive.org/cinemafemmeevents/play/609da8eda33601004c56511d/609da6d8471975114d503eda
- Please note the movie will begin at 7:30 CST exactly, the movie will not remain online at this time so we recommend signing on a few minutes early to see the full production.
- We are honored to announce that the premier streaming of One Woman Hamlet will be with Cinema Femme!
Cinema Femme’s Mission
“Cinema Femme is a platform for emerging female-identifying and non-binary filmmakers. To support these filmmakers we showcase their short films, provide education through features with womxn and non-binary in film, and offer mentorship between seasoned and emerging filmmakers. We are vocal about the need for women, women of color and LGBT+ representation onscreen and behind the lens. We believe that together we can change the industry for the better.”
Please go to the Cinema Femme website to learn more! Reading the articles on their platform has become my favorite lunchtime treat!
- Tickets will be available right here starting on May 12th. Free with the option to donate.
- The filming of One Woman Hamlet has been completely funded by the fans and community members of the project.


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Re: Tongue and Groove Wood Ceilings
I know how I will be doing mine... I will be using 1/4" luan to build a sub-ceiling, so to speak. This I can screw into, just gotta make sure I sink the heads, and it will serve to go around all the ribs, screw heads, etc... Then, my ceiling will attach to that. I may go with a cork ceiling, though, so I would just use adhesive to attach to the luan. If I was going with T&G pine, I would use the really thin stuff (5/16") and use construction adhesive and brads (just to hold as the adhesive cured). I would have the T&G going lengthwise, with the bus, so that would make things substantially easier.
The journey is the destination...

domain: design


text:
The unemployment numbers are in, and it's looking ugly out there. Payrolls grew by 69,000 last month, which remains a gain, but is the weakest showing in a year. Not only that, but April was revised down. In response, markets are plummeting. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (INDEX: ^DJI) is down 1.83% while the Nasdaq (INDEX: IXIC) is down even more, at 2.10%.
As of 11:10 a.m. EDT, the Dow had fallen into negative territory in 2012 in spite of having its best first quarter since 1998. The Nasdaq is still up 6.1%, but almost all of its gains are now associated with Apple's 40% gain on the year. As a comparison, the S&P 500 (INDEX: ^GSPC) , which has far less weighting to Apple than the Nasdaq, is only up 2% on the year.
On the bright side, it could be worse. Germany's DAX is off 3.71%.
More on those jobs numbers
While the U.S. still added jobs, the unemployment rate actually ticked up to 8.2% from 8.1%. That's because of workers re-entering the job force. This continues a disturbing trend of worsening job growth after robust January numbers.
Payroll Growth (jobs added)
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics.
As has long been a fear around the jobs market, past reductions to unemployment were partially driven by discouraged workers leaving the workforce. Those workers aren't counted under the unemployment figure you normally see splashed all over the news.
However, the U6 measure of unemployment does count these discouraged workers. That measure hasn't budged down in recent months, which was concerning in that it looked like employment growth was driven by disaffected workers rather than job creation. Unfortunately, this broader -- and very useful -- measure of unemployment saw an uptick this month, returning to levels not seen since February of this year.
U6 Unemployment (seasonally adjusted)
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Any way you slice it, this wasn't an inspiring report. As my Foolish colleague Morgan Housel noted yesterday, the jobs report has a margin of error of +/- 100,000. Unfortunately, revisions to April and March led to a subtraction of 49,000 added jobs from those months. People fretted when April's numbers came out, but the situation was actually worse than they expected.
In a way, a gain is still a gain. The problem is how slow the pace is. If the economy were to add just 69,000 jobs a month, it will be past 2030 -- perhaps substantially, depending on some assumptions -- before we return to a 4.5% unemployment rate.
Back to the Dow
Not surprisingly, there are no winners on the Dow today. Wal-Mart (NYS: WMT) comes the closest at just a 0.02% drop as of this writing. A middling economy isn't as harmful to budget-oriented companies. Likewise, Family Dollar (NYS: FDO) is seeing a 0.77% loss, which is better than any broad index you can find.
Also not a surprise is the fact the VIX, or fear index, is once again up today, although its 7.5% jump lags spikes seen earlier in the week. Despite all the fear around Europe, the VIX well off its $48 high over the past 52 weeks.
In the end, the advice doesn't change from what I offered yesterday. There's more volatility to come as Greece is unresolved and China weighs what to do about its slowing growth. If you're an investor who can't handle the swings, your best bet is to buy high-quality blue chips like McDonald's for these trying times. They'll likely hold in better during a severe downturn, and have proven to be long-term winners.
Take the long-term view
That's it for this market checkup. While staring at stock screens all day can be bad for your health, the best investors don't pull out of the market. Instead, they find stocks they can live with for the long haul. Check out The Motley Fool's special report on long-term investing, where you'll find three promising stock picks for long-term investors, along with some tips on how to invest for your golden years. It's free, but don't wait -- get your report today while it's still available.
At the time thisarticle was published Eric Bleeker owns shares of no companies listed above. The Motley Fool owns shares of Apple. Motley Fool newsletter services have recommended buying shares of Apple. Motley Fool newsletter services have also recommended creating a bull call spread position in Apple and a diagonal call position in Wal-Mart Stores. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days.
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domain: news


text:
Pou had lots of fun testing his brand new yellow Beetle, but after a bumpy ride, it needs some fixing, so Pou has parked his nice car in your amazing car salon. Get it on the platform and fix all that is broken, starting by removing the nail from the tire, patch it and add pressure, replace the broken windshield, paint the car and Pou will be really happy cause his car looks good as new.
＜What You Need＞
＜How to Play＞
Fix the car!
1. Click Play and the Close Hints.
2. Click the left switch to take the car.
3. Use the upper left pliers to pull the nail.
4. Paint the front of the car with the bottom right paint.
5. Clean the glass on top.
6. Clean the car with the sponge on the left.
7. Fill the tires with air.
☆ Car,Passtime games ☆
Copyright(C) 2004-2020 AISE Inc. All Rights Reserved.

domain: hobby


text:
Welcome to the Chicago Harp Ensemble, training ensemble of the Chicago Harp Quartet. This site is for students, families, and teachers to help us all stay organized and informed, as well as for potential new members to see what we're all about. Please check out our 2018-19 season and let us know if you have any questions!
About the Ensemble
The Chicago Harp Ensemble was established in Fall 2010 to provide vital ensemble experience to harpists of all ages, performance levels and harp types. All classes are lead by a professional instructor with extensive experience with harp ensemble and take place September through May. Classes include warm-up exercises, sight-reading and performance pieces while integrating music theory and improvisation as well. Participation in the harp ensemble will enrich harp education by providing a fun and friendly environment in which to learn ensembles skills, build a strong rhythmic background, strengthen ear training, learn to follow a conductor and build a supportive harp community.
The Chicago Harp Ensemble performs two concerts free to the public each year. If you are interested in attending these concerts, please get in touch with CHQ to find out more information.
Marguerite Lynn Williams, Founder & Director
Alison Attar, CHE North Assistant Director
Julie Spring, CHE downtown Assistant Director
Lauren Hayes & Ellie Kirk, Teachers
The Chicago Harp Ensemble is pleased to announce its 2018-2019 season beginning September 8th. Downtown ensemble rehearsals will take place at Roosevelt University, 430 S. Michigan Ave, Rm 901 Harp Studio, where we are privileged to have four concert grand harps to be shared among students.
Fall 2018 Schedule
Dress Rehearsal ~ December 2, 2-4pm Lyon & Healy Hall
Concert ~ December 2, 5pm Lyon & Healy Hall
Spring 2019 Schedule
Dress Rehearsal ~ May 19, 2-4pm Lyon & Healy Hall
Concert ~ May 19, 5pm Lyon & Healy Hall
Registration & Tuition
The Chicago Harp Ensemble is open to harpists of all ages, performance levels and harp types.
Registration deadline: 8/31/18
Tuition: $230/semester or $410 for both semesters if paid in full by 8/31/18
Tuition is due with registration materials each semester (8/31/18 for the Fall term and 2/1/19 for the Spring term)
Please make checks payable to: Chicago Harp Quartet
Music will be distributed beginning 8/13/18, as soon as registration materials are received.
Students are expected to prepare music before the first rehearsal of each term.
Harpists are required to bring their harp, bench and music stand to all rehearsals and concerts. (Some equipment is available in the Roosevelt Harp studio including four pedal harps, assorted music stands and benches. Please make arrangements directly with Ms. Williams to use this equipment. All equipment is provided for concerts taking place at Lyon & Healy Hall.)
o Attendance at all rehearsals is expected, however we offer some flexibility to accommodate members who would otherwise not be able to participate.
o All members are allowed one absence. If a member is absent for more than one rehearsal, they will be required to do a performance test before or after a rehearsal in order to be approved for participation in the semester’s concert.
o Planned absences: please provide a written excuse to the Director two weeks prior to the absence.
o Unexpected absences (such as illness or emergency): please call the Director (773-791-7520) as soon as possible.
o Attendance at dress rehearsals and concerts is mandatory.
All harpists are expected to arrive no less than 15 minutes prior to the start of ensemble rehearsal to ensure plenty of time for tuning and set-up. If the member cannot tune in less than 5 minutes, it is highly encouraged for them to arrive earlier to allow enough tuning time.
Tardiness is not allowed. Please make every effort to arrive before the start of class. If for any reason a harpist arrives after the start of a rehearsal, they will tune quietly outside the room and be allowed to join the ensemble at an appropriate break.
Parking is available on the street and in paid parking lots. We suggest using parkwhiz or spothero to find discounted rates.
Concert Dress: For the 2018-2019 season, CHE will be wearing long black bottoms (pants or full-length skirts), black tops, black hosiery or socks and black shoes.

domain: artistic


My Fellow UPS Workers, The purpose of this discussion thread is not to gripe or complain about conditions at UPS, management, the Union or for that matter anything at all about UPS. The sole purpose of this discussion thread is to discuss the following work-related issue with other employees as an initial step in engaging in some concerted activity to bring this issue up to the company as a group. It is my hope that by addressing this issue in concert we not only be working for our own mutual aid, protection and improved working conditions, but we will be working for the benefit of any and all coworkers that may have been adversely affected by this issue. I was in a smaller facility recently and I saw one of the maintenance guys standing by a couple of beat up old cabinets. I asked him if he could show me where the maintenance shop was and he stated " your looking at it." The building was very dirty, dusty and generally unkempt. I spoke with him for a few minutes while he was working and he spoke of many serious issues within the Plant Engineering dept that many working at UPS probably don't even know exist. He said many of these issues have to do with general and widespread lack of integrity within the PE department. Does anyone have any similar experience with Plant Engineering at UPS?


(WASHINGTON) — Special counsel Robert Mueller on Wednesday broke more than two years of silence about his investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election and whether President Donald Trump obstructed justice, saying he does not intend to testify to Congress and explaining why he did not have the “option” of charging the president with a crime.Mueller spoke amid demands by congressional Democrats that he testify in public.
He said he would make “a few remarks” but that it was “important that the office’s written work speak for itself.””The report is my testimony,” Mueller said.The special counsel said he was speaking out because his “investigation is complete,” his office is “formally closing” and that he is “resigning from the Department of Justice to return to private life.””The matters we investigated were of paramount importance,” Mueller said. “When the subject of an investigation obstructs that investigation or lies to investigators it strikes at the government’s effort to find the truth and hold wrongdoers accountable.”With regard to why he did not make a decision about whether the president obstructed justice, Mueller said charging the president with a crime was “not an option we could consider” because of Justice Department policy.But he added: “If we had confidence that the president clearly did not commit a crime we would have said so.””Beyond department policy we were guided by principles of fairness. It would be unfair to potentially accuse somebody of a crime when there can be no court resolution of the actual charge,” the special counsel said. “That is the office’s final position and we will not comment on any other conclusions or hypotheticals about the president.”However, Mueller also made clear that the “Constitution requires a process other than the criminal justice system to formally accuse a sitting president of wrongdoing,” suggesting that such a decision should be left in the hands of the Congress through impeachment proceedings.Trump tweeted, “The case is closed!” shortly after Mueller spoke.But a key congressional Democrat said the matter was far from over.”Given that Special Counsel Mueller was unable to pursue criminal charges against the President, it falls to Congress to respond to the crimes, lies and other wrongdoing of President Trump – and we will do so. No one, not even the President of the United States, is above the law,” House Judiciary Chairman Rep. Jerry Nadler, D-N.Y., said in a statement.Until now, Mueller has remained silent through the course of his investigation, through the release of his final report on April 18.The White House was given a heads up that Mueller would be making a statement, sources familiar with the matter told ABC News. However, the sources said the White House was not given any sense as to what he would say.Mueller’s statement came amid speculation about whether he would agree to publicly testify before Congress about the results of his investigation, and the handling of his findings on potential obstruction of justice by President Trump.Trump said Friday that he sees no need for Mueller to testify, calling it “ridiculous,” but has said he would leave the decision up to Attorney General William Barr. Barr has told Congress he has no objection to Mueller testifying.”Now, I hope and expect this to be the only time that I will speak to you in this matter,” Mueller said in his statement. “I am making that decision myself, no one has told me whether I can or should testify or speak further about this matter. There has been discussion about an appearance before Congress. Any testimony from this office would not go beyond our report.”Sources close to Mueller have told ABC News that he is apprehensive about being made into a political football by members of either party, and that his team has proposed a public statement to the House Judiciary Committee followed by private questioning. It’s unclear whether such a proposal would be accepted by the committee.Barr, who has faced criticism for his handling of Mueller’s report and public statements appearing to defend President Trump, is currently on official travel in Alaska.Barr was also given a heads up on Mueller’s intention to deliver a statement, a source told ABC News. The source would not say when the heads up was given, or whether Barr is aware of the content of what Mueller will say.While Barr has repeatedly said he has no problem with Mueller testifying publicly about his findings, Trump in recent days has accused Democrats of wanting a “re-do” of his investigation and using his testimony to fuel calls for Trump’s impeachment.
I don’t know why the Radical Left Democrats want Bob Mueller to testify when he just issued a 40 Million Dollar Report that states, loud & clear & for all to hear, No Collusion and No Obstruction (how do you Obstruct a NO crime?) Dems are just looking for trouble and a Do-Over!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 24, 2019
Muller has been eager to avoid the politics swirling around his investigation into the Trump campaign and Russia’s 2016 influence efforts and doesn’t want to testify publicly on Capitol Hill about his findings, Nadler said last week.“He doesn’t want to be public in what some people will regard as a political spectacle, I think,” Nadler said in an interview with MSNBC, confirming reports from ABC News and other outlets about House Democrats pushing back on DOJ’s offer for limited Mueller testimony.Nadler said, “we will subpoena him if we have to” in a May 8 interview on CNN.Mueller’s 448-page final report detailed the special counsel’s 22-month long investigation into allegations that the president’s campaign had colluded with Russia. The report said that “the investigation did not establish that the Trump Campaign coordinated with the Russian government in its election interference activities.” Mueller declined to make a traditional prosecutorial decision on whether the president had obstructed justice.By the conclusion of the investigation, Mueller had indicted 34 people and three Russian businesses, levied charges against six Trump associates and elicited seven guilty pleas.
Copyright © 2019, ABC Radio. All rights reserved.


text:
Sounds like a satire piece? Well, it's not.
The authorities are on the lookout for India's first ever 'Happiness Minister' who is absconding after being accused of murder.
Fifty-three-year-old Lal Singh Arya is a prime suspect in the murder of Makhanlal Jatav, an opposition politician. While out campaigning for another candidate, Jatav was shot dead. According to Indiatimes, a court in Bhind had issued an arrest warrant against Arya.
Arya is the head of India’s only Department for Happiness, set up by the government in Madhya Pradesh in 2016, reports Indiatimes.
It is tasked with improving “the happiness and tolerance of its citizens” and “putting a smile on everyone’s face” through services such as free yoga and meditation classes.

domain: law


text:
In a day full of matchmaking, one more fight for the UFC on FX 4 card couldn’t hurt right?
American-turned-Australian Brian Ebersole will make his return to action on the June 22 card to face recent submission machine T.J. Waldburger.
UFC officials announced the new match-up late Wednesday evening.
Following a long career in several promotions, Brian Ebersole finally made his UFC debut in 2011 when he stepped in on short notice to face Chris Lytle at UFC 127 in Australia. The veteran lived up to the opportunity and defeated Lytle by unanimous decision, and has gone on to win two more times inside the Octagon.
Facing the three-fight UFC winner will be T.J. Waldburger, who looks to equal that mark after back-to-back wins in his recent fights as well.
Waldburger was stopped by current UFC welterweight title contender Johny Hendricks in his first bout with the promotion, but stormed back with two nasty submission wins his last couple of fights.
Waldburger put away Mike Stumpf by triangle choke and then landed a beautiful armbar submission on Jake Hecht at UFC on FX 2 earlier this month.
Now Waldburger will look to make it a trio of consecutive victories when he faces Ebersole in Atlantic City as part of the UFC on FX 4 card landing there on June 22.


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I was surprised and ashamed to find out that our justice system does not provide early access to legal counsel for suspects, especially vulnerable ones ("Vulnerable suspects and their access to counsel"; last Saturday).
What is disturbing is that a number of police precincts do not give suspects the Pamphlet of Rights, and that some investigating officers have not even heard of it.
We have always sought to be No. 1 in many areas.
How can we claim to have a world-class justice system when we cannot even exercise common sense when handling investigations involving vulnerable suspects?
To be sure, there are no legal requirements or guidelines. But should we always aim for compliance? Should we not try to go above and beyond the provisions?
I am glad the police have promised to review their investigation process, especially with regard to vulnerable suspects such as minors ("Police to review the way youth are questioned"; Feb 2). Perhaps the Law Minister could also weigh in, to ensure that the review will be taken more seriously and with a sense of urgency.
Peter Chan Teng Hong


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Today the Aquino government will be hosting the Infrastructure Philippines conference which aims to jumpstart the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) program of the government. The conference will be held at the Marriot Hotel in Pasay. The PPP is just a repackaging of the discredit “privatization” policies of previous regimes.
Based on the website www.ppp.gov.ph, the conference aims to boost the PPP program of the Aquino administration by giving incentives to potential foreign investors. Many of the conference speakers are representatives of foreign banks and multilateral lending institutions like the Asian Development Bank, World Bank, Japan Bank for International Cooperation, HSBC, Standard Chartered Bank among others.
During his State of the Nation Address, Mr. Aquino hailed the PPP as a creative or innovative way of getting projects done even if government is facing a gargantuan budget deficit (which may reach P325 billion by yearend). He even cited leasing the facilities of the Philippine Navy Headquarters in Roxas Boulevard so that government can get P100 billion for the modernization of the Navy. The headquarters meanwhile will be relocated to Camp Aguinaldo in Edsa, quite far away from any body of water.
During his trip to the US and Japan, Mr. Aquino also sought foreign investors for his PPP projects. In his speech at the Council on Foreign Relations in the US, Aquino said that the Philippine was “wide open” for investments “particularly in tourism, business process outsourcing, mining, electronics, housing and agricultural sectors”. In the same speech, he announced that there are 10 initial PPP projects amounting to some $4.5 billion (Aquino speech on CFR, US). Recently, the government unveiled its list of 10 PPP projects as:
Tourism Projects Cost
-MRT-LRT expansion US$1.56 billion
-LRT Line 2 East extension US$251.10 million
-Puerto Prinsesa (Palawan) airport US$96.93 million
-new Bohol Airport US$167.62 million
–Kabulnan-2 Multipurpose Irrigation and Power Project US$319.40 million
-Logistics Support on Agri-Fishery Products Supply Chain US$33.33 million
-Wind Farm Power Project US$125 million
-Northwind Pamplona Project US$75 million
-Northwind Appari Project US$100 million
The 10 projects are part of the 83 infrastructure projects lined up until 2015. These projects are reportedly worth P740 billion. Of the 83, 43 projects worth P348.5 billion are in the power sector. (Bayan discussion guide).
To attract investors, the Philippine government has prepared incentives and other conditions that would guarantee foreign firms their profits.
Under the new PPP program, the Aquino government is willing, “on a case-to-case basis, to protect investors from certain regulatory risk events such as court orders or decisions by regulatory agencies which prevent investors from adjusting tariffs to contractually agreed levels. Such regulatory risk insurance could take the form of make-up payments from the government to PPP investors, other guaranteed payments, and adjustments to contract terms.”
So if the Supreme Court issues a TRO on a toll fee hike of a private toll operator, the government will end up paying the toll way operator for its “losses”.
The “insurance” from the government covers court orders or decisions, issuances of regulatory bodies (ERC, TRB, MWSS etc), and even legislation. In one fell swoop, the executive renders all these institutions and agencies useless. Consumers, who are also taxpayers, will still end up paying the private operators. Such an arrangement is a surefire way to pile up public debt.
Not long ago, the Philippine guaranteed the profits of Independent Power Producers during the Ramos administration. The onerous “take-or-pay” provisions, where IPPs are assured of payment whether or not their plants go on-line, resulted in skyrocketing power rates and saddled the state-run Napocor with billions of debt. This became the infamous Purchased Power Adjustment or PPA. Meanwhile, the private investors of the MRT were also given sovereign guarantees on their loans as well as a guaranteed return on investment of up to 15%. The government ended up in debt as it tried to pay its obligations to the private operator.
The Aquino government clarified that such a guarantee will only be made available on a “case to case basis” and that there will be no guarantees for commercial risks, no take-or-pay provisions in the new PPP. Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima was saying they want to break with the past practices.
Secretary Rick Carandang meanwhile was quoted as saying that Leftist critics of the PPP have done nothing but “oppose and oppose”. He said:
“They (critics) are concerned that it will lead to more debt but let’s take a look at what the debt to GDP ratio is going to be at the end of all of this. Let’s take a look at what the debt servicing ratio is gonna be at the end of all this. Let’s take a look at what kind of projects, what kind of infrastructure we’re going to be able to build at the end of all this and then we’ll know if it was worth it,”
Well, we shall take up Sec. Carandang on his challenge. We doubt it if Sec. Carandang can guarantee that debt spending will not go up after this PPP spree. Yes we will have tangible projects, as we did have the IPP’s and the MRT during the Ramos administration. In some cases, it will probably be some time before the negative effects will be felt. The IPP contracts were entered into in 1990’s but the outrage over the PPA erupted only during the following decade. Almost a decade passed before the government decided to drastically increase the MRT fares (which are set to take effect next month).
The Aquino government has said that guarantees or incentives are necessary to attract investors. Private investors need protection from certain risks, says the government. But who will protect consumers from the risk of high prices and mounting debt if the authority of regulatory bodies, the courts and congress can be circumvented by private firms armed with government guarantees?
Can we build infrastructure without the aid of foreign investments? Yes we can, but it would take a restructuring of the economy in favor of addressing people’s needs rather than global market demands. It would require government investing in basic and heavy industries and encouraging national industrialization to address basic needs and promote stable employment. It would require land reform which will increase purchasing power in the countryside and stimulate domestic consumption. It will involve an economic outlook that fosters self-reliance and sovereignty and allows the domestic accumulation of wealth, rather than the repatriation of profits. It cannot be achieved overnight but when it happens, there will be balanced growth and the people will not be left behind in “progress”.
No, we don’t just “oppose and oppose”. Ours is an economic alternative to privatization, liberalization, deregulation and unbridled profiteering. ###
P.S. – The PPP Cabinet: A review of the cabinet appointments of Pres. Aquino will show us several representatives of big business strategically positioned in departments that would take on PPP projects. Many of the PPP projects are in tourism, transportation, public works and energy. Could it be mere coincidence that the secretaries of these departments all come from big business? Could there be potential conflicts of interest?
Tourism Secretary Alberto Lim was the Executive Director the Makati Business Club. Energy Secretary Jose Rene Almendras was the former president of the Ayala-owned Manila Water. DPWH Secretary Rogeliio Singson was former president of Maynilad, a company conncected with DM Consunji. Transportation and Communications secretary Jose “Ping” de Jesus was the former president and chief operating officer of electricity distributor Meralco and also former PLDT executive vice president.
Appointees like Singson and De Jesus may have conflict of interest issues. Singson was connected with DM Consunji Inc., one of the biggest construction firms in the country and which has lucrative infrastructure contracts with government. DOTC’s De Jesus on the other hand, being a former executive vice president of PLDT, may find himself in a similar conflict of interest situation when dealing with his former employer.
Similarly, DOE’s Almendras will have to deal with his former employers in the Ayala Corporation since the company is also interested investing in the energy sector. News reports say that Ayala is keen in investing in renewable energy and had also partnered with Metro Pacific in a previous attempt to acquire the Angat power plant. Almendras will also have to deal with his former employers in Aboitiz and Co. which is considered one of the biggest firms investing in power generation and distribution in the Visayas and Mindanao.
Business with government is made so much easier when representatives of big business are running the government, as if it were a business. In the 70’s, they called it “bureaucrat captalism”. ###


text:
Durban - The Durban International Book Fair takes place in Africa’s only Unesco city of literature.
“Unlocked & Unleashed” is a tribute to the storytellers keeping the word alive under the most testing conditions.
The Durban Book Fair is a week-long extravaganza, from August 1 to 5, at Sibaya Casino & Entertainment Kingdom and on August 6 and 7 at Pick n Pay, Durban North.
#DIBF2022, with a stellar line-up of writers, musicians and artists, is designed as a global marketplace for readers, creatives, authors, academicians, literacy NGOs, language promoters and publishers.
#DIBF2022 will host 275 writers over the seven-day period with a wide variety of topics on indigenous languages, women’s literature and climate change. About 15 books will be launched at the fair and 5 000 visitors are expected over the seven days.
Organisations wanting to participate in the seven-day programme should email [email protected]
#DIBF2022 is an initiative of the non-profit Durban Book Fair.
For sponsorship opportunities and exhibition costs, contact [email protected]
Teachers qualify for a free pack of books worth more than R500 if registration is done via www.madeindurban.co.za (terms and conditions apply).
The Independent on Saturday

domain: literature


text:
First and foremost, our goal is to give individuals who struggle with communication, a new an exciting way to engage with other people, regardless of skill or ability.
Roleplay is a wonderful way to achieve this, and many people all around the world, come together in groups to spend time with one another, and socialise in a way that modern media still hasn't been able to replicate, face to face.
But what if you live with a condition that has made this difficult for you to achieve?
People living with various limiting conditions, are often excluded from numerous activities due to the lack of resources available.
We have challenged this situation by being as inclusive as possible and by gathering, and in some instances, creating resources that would allow a wide variety of individuals access to the world of roleplay.
From building relationships with members of various charitable communities, people willing to add their experience and skills to a project, to finding new and interesting ways to reach and accommodate the needs of individuals, we have created a series of systems that maximise the level of inclusion as much as possible.
We cater to the visually and hearing impaired, as well as members of the ASD community and people that have mobility limitations.

domain: sociology


text:
February 17, 2011
February 17, 2011 - Art Dealers Association of Canada (ADAC) is pleased to announce its official participation, as part of an exclusive not-for-profit contingent at The Armory Show taking place 2 to 6 March 2011
January 28, 2011
January 28, 2011- "Toronto's cultural sector employs nearly 133,000 people and annually generates $9 billion in GDP,” Councillor Thompson said. “Between 1991 and 2007, creative occupations grew at more than twice the rate of the general labour force. Given the changes that have occurred in the economy, Toronto's city governance philosophy and the city's cultural sector since 2003, it is time to take a fresh look at our Culture Plan.”
January 24, 2011
January 24, 2011 - The Toronto Arts Foundation in collaboration with Cultural Services, City of Toronto is currently conducting research to determine the feasibility and interest in a centralized North York Arts Service Organization to support and foster the arts in our neighbourhood. We are conducting community consultations to determine interests and needs.
October 10, 2014
Toronto – Toronto Arts Council (TAC) is pleased to announce that six innovative arts development projects have been awarded grants through a new funding process called Open Door.
December 09, 2014
Toronto Arts Council welcomed 8 new arts professionals and five City Councillors to its Board of Directors at the 40th anniversary Annual General Meeting held last night.
February 02, 2015
February 2, 2015 - Toronto
Claire Hopkinson, Director and CEO, and Gaëtane Verna, member of the Board of Directors of Toronto Arts Council, spoke today at the 2015 Budget Committee Meeting.
February 24, 2015
June 29, 2015
Toronto Mayor John Tory today announced that Councillor John Filion will be his new Advocate for the Arts. In addition he announced the launch of a new Arts in the Parks program being developed by Toronto Arts Council and Toronto Arts Foundation.
May 07, 2015
May 7, 2015 - Toronto Arts Council is pleased to announce the creation of an annual multi-disciplinary project grant specifically for Indigenous (First Nations, Inuit and Métis) artists, collectives and organizations.
July 20, 2015
Help us spread the word about TAC’s exciting new grants program!


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Dr Liz Murphy – Clinical Psychologist
Liz Murphy is a research clinical psychologist at The Psychosis Research Unit (PRU). Her role is to provide cognitive therapy to people who are participating in research trials. Since Liz joined the team in early 2014, she has provided therapy across a range of trials, including RESPECT (Reducing Self-stigma in Psychosis by engagement in Cognitive Therapy), FOCUS (Focusing On Clozapine Unresponsive Symptoms), COMPARE (Cognitive behavioural therapy or Medication for Psychosis – A Randomised Evaluation), BART (Bipolar At-Risk Trial) and PRODIGY (Prevention of Long-Term Social Disability in Young People with Emerging Psychological Difficulties). She values how the team places a strong emphasis on a collaborative, flexible approach and on respecting the choice of participants. Liz finds working as trial therapist to be an enjoyable and rewarding experience.
As well her role as a trial therapist, she also contributes to teaching, training and research. For example, she co-facilitates the Recovery Academy’s Living with Hearing Voices course which is accessible to anyone, and she provides teaching to the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology course at The University of Manchester on interpersonal process in cognitive therapy, and at The University of Liverpool on cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) for psychosis. Details of her publications can be found on her Research Profile.
With regards to her previous experience, Liz completed her Psychology BSc degree at the University of Leeds in 2005. She then worked as a research assistant, and later as the project manager, for the Manchester Self-Harm Project based at the University of Manchester. Her role involved coordinating the monitoring of self-harm presentations to emergency departments across the city to inform epidemiological research and suicide prevention policy. Liz subsequently commenced the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology training at the University of Manchester, which she completed in 2012. As well as receiving core training in CBT, Liz chose a specialist consultation placement in team formulation for staff working with people experiencing psychosis, and a specialist therapy placement in psychodynamic-interpersonal therapy.
Liz Murphy’s doctoral research involved studying the reasons underlying non-engagement in therapy from the person-centred perspective of perceptual control theory. Liz’s current interests in CBT for psychosis, collaborative working, processes of change and particularly interpersonal process, have arisen from these influences. Following her clinical training and prior to working at PRU, Liz also worked as a clinical psychologist at Salford Primary Care Psychology Service, which she found a valuable and memorable experience in being able to provide psychological therapy for a wide range of people.

domain: health


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Prospect ranking season is here. Top 10 lists will be arriving shortly and in preparation for that, we present an intro series looking at some of the players who deserve mentioning but probably will not be appearing on their teams’ Top 10 lists. The series is back for a second year.
The Graduate: Mitch Maier, OF
I’ve been a big fan of Maier since his college days, so I was happy to see him finally get an extended opportunity in KC in ’09. The former college catcher had a modest rookie season with a line of .243/.333/.331. He struggles to hit consistently because he expands the strike zone too much, but he has value to the club because of his versatility, willingness to walk and speed. Maier’s best position is center field, although he can play all three. He’s also played infield positions in the minors and can serve as a third-string catcher. As much as it pains me to say it, Maier will need to show improvement if he hopes to stick around the Majors with KC, especially with the likes of Jordan Parraz and Tim Smith on the way.
The Riser: Jordan Parraz, OF
The acquisitions of players like Parraz could very well help turn the organization around, more so than picking up the Mike Jacobs and Yuniesky Betancourts of the world. Grabbed from Houston prior to the ’09 season, Parraz was a player with some intriguing abilities but things were just not clicking in the Astros system. The outfielder missed some time this past season due to injury, but he hit .358/.451/.553 in 226 double-A at-bats. He also earned a 13-game trial in triple-A. Parraz has the ability to hit a few homers and steal a few bases while getting on base at a respectable rate. Now 25, the Royals prospect has a shot at spending time in Kansas City in 2010, likely as a backup outfielder.
The Tumbler: Johnny Giavotella, 2B
Giavotella did not have a terrible season, but he failed to build on the success he had in his debut season in ’08. The second baseman hit a modest .258/.351/.380 in 476 high-A at-bats… and he was victimized by a .281 BABIP. At 5’8” he won’t generate a ton of power, but he gets on base (12.2 BB%) and he doesn’t strike out much (1.22 BB/K). He needs to improve against right-handed pitchers after hitting just .243/.340/.344. Giavotella also has some speed with 26 steals in 35 attempts in ’09. Defensively at second base, he made 21 errors and showed average range at best.
The ’10 Sleeper: Tim Smith, OF
Smith was obtained late in the ’09 season from Texas, along with Manny Pina, in exchange for disgruntled pitcher Danny Gutierrez. The Canadian outfielder swings a good stick, with a career batting average above .300. Despite battling injuries in ’09, Smith hit .333/.413/.475 in 120 high-A at-bats, and .309/.380/.439 in 139 double-A at-bats. The left-handed hitter batted .279/.346/.397 against southpaws and .337/.409/.490 versus right-handers. He’s not a speed-burner but he’s good on the bases, having stolen 21 in ’08 and 15 (in 17 attempts) in ’09. Smith, 23, does not project to be a star, but he could be a modest everyday player, or a solid fourth outfielder.
Bonus: Jose Bonilla, C
Bonilla was highlighted in the ’08 series as the Royals’ sleeper prospect for 2009. However, things did not go as hoped for the catcher in ’09 as he struggled with the bat in his first taste of full-season ball. Bonilla’s averaged dropped from .357 in rookie ball to .217 in low-A ball, in part because his BABIP went from .412 to .280. The prospect has modest power (.094 ISO), but he struck out at a disappointing rate: 26.2 K%. On the plus side, Bonilla’s walk rate rose from 4.3 to 7.6 BB%. A right-handed hitter, he batted just .178/.219/.256 against southpaws. Defensively, he still allows too many passed balls and his success rate at throwing out runners dropped from 43% in ’08 to 34% in ’09.

domain: sports


Fol Chen – “In Ruins”
With Part I: John Shade, Your Fortune’s Made, California sextet/Liars-affiliates Fol Chen wove a knotty narrative around quirked electronics, funk, and percussion. Its sequel promises a continuation of the plot, picking up in a world “covered in ash, plagued by acid rain.” There’s much more to the tale, though that’s enough background for “In Ruins,” the album’s first single. Few post-apocalyptic dance songs are this summer-party worthy — flanked by blurpy synths and modal motifs “Walking around the streets tonight everything’s in ruins” sounds practically celebratory. A song to new beginnings then. As before, Fol Chen are keeping their faces and likenesses masked and obscured, although you’ll be able to get a better glimpse at them on their upcoming tour opening for Liars, where they’ll double as extended members of Angus Andrew’s crew. Here’s “In Ruins”:
Part II: The New December is out 6/6 via Asthmatic Kitty. The album features vocals from Angus and Aaron of Liars, Kárin Tatoyan, and singer-songwriter Simone White.


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Written by our friend Jake, this book is inspiring and educational. He also runs courses which take your pruning skills to another level.
Author: Jake Hobson
Number Of Pages: 144
Publisher: Timber Press
Details: Japanese gardeners have fine-tuned a distinctive set of pruning techniques that coax out the essential characters of their garden trees, or niwaki. Discussing the principles that underpin the techniques, this work offers guidelines for shaping pines, azaleas, conifers, broadleaved evergreens, bamboos, and deciduous trees.


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The third and final heat of MGP 2024 is upon us, as the final 6 artists battle for a place in next week’s Grand Final.
Last week, Dag Erik Oksvold & Anne Fagermo, Gåte and Super Rob & Erika Norwich joined Heat 1’s Gothminister, Ingrid Jasmin and Margaret Berger as this years Heat 1 & 2 qualifiers.
Here’s all you need to know about the Heat 3 artists…
Vidar Villa – ‘MER’
Vidar Villa is Spellemann Award nominated artist from Lillestrøm, and began his career in 2016. In 2018, he competed in MGP with ‘Moren Din’, and has since become one of Norway’s most popular pop musicians, with over 200 million streams and 17 songs reaching gold or platinum status.
His song is called ‘MER’, and is all about embracing whatever life throws at you. You can hear his song below!
Mistra – ‘Waltz Of Death’
Mistra are a duo made up of Benedicte Adrian and Anders Odden. Anders is co-founder of death-metal band Cadaver, as well as other bands Magenta, ORDER and Doctor Midnight & The Mercy Cult. Born in Stavanger but raised in Fredrikstad and Råde, he became interested in rock as a child after discovering Kiss, and founded Cadaver in 1988. He’s been credited as one of the pioneers in the Norwegian metal industry, and despite moving between both being in bands and working behind the scenes in the music industry, he has still achieved great success both in Norway and internationally. Oslo-born Benedicte is a former Eurovision artist, representing Norway 40 years ago in 1984 as part of Dollie De Luxe, where they came 17th with ‘Lenge leve livet’. She has since gone on to perform in Opera’s and Theatres, and judged Series 5 of Norway’s Pop Idol.
‘Waltz of Death’ is the duo’s first song together, mixing both pop and metal for a dark yet accessible track unlike nothing else in this years MGP. You can hear their song below!
Thomas Jenssen – ‘Take Me To Heaven’
Levanger native Thomas Jenssen is achieving one of his dreams as part of this years MGP lineup, and has a strong passion for music – he studied it at University, and is currently taking his Masters degree in songwriting.
His song is called ‘Take Me To Heaven’ and he described it as the following to ESCUnited :
It is a song about daring to be vulnerable and knowing it is okay to be yourself. Like RuPaul says ”if you can’t love yourself, how the hell are you gonna love somebody else?”. That’s the main inspiration lyrically for the song.Thomas Jenssen, ESC United
You can hear his song below!
Annprincess – ‘Save Me’
Born in Liberia but raised in Lier after fleeing her homeland at age 6, Annprincess began singing and writing songs at age 13. She began channelling her emotions through music, entering the industry professionally in 2019. Despite being turned away from Idol on four occasions, she made it to both Norske Talenter as a teen and The Voice Norway in 2022. Now, age 32, she’ll be taking part in Melodi Grand Prix. You can read more about her incredible story and life by clicking here.
Her song is called ‘Save Me’, and is about the loneliness a person can feel when others point out their differences, something Annprincess has spoken of feeling after moving to Norway. It also explores acceptance and learning how to stand up for yourself.
Growing up in Africa, the colour of my skin was not really something I thought about. It took Norway to make me aware of it – not just aware, but ashamed. Comments from strangers, and even my so-called friends, about the differences between their skin and body and mine, made me ashamed when looking in the mirror. For a long time, I wished I looked like them, just to fit in and be liked.Annprincess on growing up in Norway, Happiful
You can hear her song below!
Miia – ‘Green Lights’
Miia (Mia Virk Kristensen) is from Kragerø, and broke through with the song ‘Dynasty’ in 2015, which currently has over 160 million Spotify streams. Her interest for music began when she was aged 5, taking singing lessons and becoming a member of her church choir. In 2011, she took part in the Kragerø Folk Festival and joined the choir group Singspiration, with whom she travelled around Norway on the festival circuit. She signed to a label at age 14, and began recording music in 2012, releasing her first EP ‘In The Light Of Love’ a year later. In 2019, she collaborated with past MGP and Eurovision contestant Mørland on the song ‘How To Lose Something Good’.
‘Green Lights’ showcases Miia’s vocals over a track that builds from the very first second into a big final chorus. You can hear her song below!
KEiiNO – ‘Damdiggida’
Spellemann Award nominees KEiiNO are no stranger not just to fans of both MGP and Eurovision. Formed in 2019 by Fred Buljo, Alexandra Rotan and Tom Hugo, the trio first came together for the song ‘Spirit In The Sky’, winning Melodi Grand Prix, coming 6th in Eurovision 2019 and winning the televote. Since then, they’ve released a string of songs and an album, and have appeared across Europe and Australia on tour and at differing Eurovision events. They have since taken part in MGP again, coming 2nd in 2021 with ‘Monument’.
Tom Hugo is a singer/songwriter from Kristiansand, and started his career in 2007 after moving to Germany. He released his first album ‘Sundry Tales‘ in 2012, and went on to have success in Norway with the single ‘Million Doors‘. He first participated in MGP 2013 with ‘Det er du‘, returning again in 2018 with ‘I Like I Like I Like’. Outside of KEiiNO and his solo career, he provides vocals for the group Radiojam, and writes for artists in Asia and Europe, most notably having credits on songs for SHINee and TVXQ.
Alexandra Rotan is from Råholt in Eidsvoll, and started her career as a child singer in 2010, where she became a superfinalist in MGP Junior with the song ‘Det vi vil‘. In 2016 she was a semi-finalist on Idol, before returning to MGP once again in 2018 alongside former-Eurovision contestant Stella Mwangi on the song ‘You Got Me‘, coming 3rd.
Fred Buljo is a Sámi rapper and joiker from Kautokeino, who also began his career in 2007 as part of Sámi rap duo Duolva Duottar. They reached the final of Norske Talenter, and released their first album Da lea Duolva Duottar in 2011. Outside of music, he was a member of the political party Árja from 2013-2017.
Will MGP 2024 mark another win for KEiiNO? Their song ‘Damdiggida’ is an upbeat, electro pop track with a catchy chorus and stand out vocals, which has seen it reach the top 3 of the odds as a favourite to win. You can hear their song below!
Melodi Grand Prix 2024 Heat 3 takes place on January 27th 2024 at 19:50 CET // 18:50 GMT Live on NRK – click here to watch live.
Who’s your MGP Heat 3 favourite? Leave a comment below to let us know!
Our podcast, Instead We Made A Pod, is available to stream on all platforms.


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Youthful Seniors Art & Music Classes – Nelson Studio 88
April 4–May 13
At Nelson Studio 88, we believe in the transformative power of creativity for all ages. Our adult and youthful seniors classes are designed for life long learners that are looking for creative outlets and connection with others. The beauty of the arts lies in its ability to stimulate various areas of the brain, enhancing memory, cognition, and a sense of accomplishment and our classes open opportunities to meet like-minded people to play and learn alongside.
Sing and dance with Glee Club
Commit to an artistic Sketchbook practice
Strum along Guitar and learn new fingerpicking
Create your very own landscape felted wall hanging
Join us today at Nelson Studio 88 and step into a world of creativity and growth.


Wanna change the flag? I’m with you on that. Have been for a long time. But here’s what I know for a fact – a majority of Mississippi voters and politicians aren’t there. Yet.
I think there are several issues regarding both strategy and tactics that folks, particularly Mississippians who aren’t Republicans, need to understand.
- People who want to change the flag have to embrace the fact that not everyone in Mississippi who doesn’t want to change the flag is a knuckle-dragging racist. I can’t emphasize this enough. It doesn’t mean there’s not a subset of folks who want to keep the flag for the wrong reasons (because there are), but by vilifying everyone on the other side, it makes people dig in – even those that might be willing to privately vote your way. The reason to change the flag is not that its supporters are racists; it’s that it doesn’t represent all of us. I won’t get into the hate vs. heritage thing, but there are folks that feel like the more folks are “cramming something down their throat” the harder they should fight it. And folks who dig in are the least likely to change. People who justifiably want a new flag need to have some of the folks that aren’t as excited about a new flag on board, and portraying them as racists is usually not a good starting point.
- People who want to change the flag need to recognize that there are still more people that don’t want a new flag than those that do. But this is not like the civil rights movement. The courts are largely not at our disposal on this issue. The right thing to do still essentially has to be a choice. There’s plenty immoral about the state flag but there’s nothing illegal about it. We’ve had a referendum and several elections where the flag is an issue. There have been lawsuits. But the issue really hasn’t moved much. There has been real polling performed on the issue. It’s pretty clear that in Mississippi a unilateral “change the flag” vote that’s not done the right way is still an incredibly heavy lift, particularly for Republicans, but it’s going to take agreement to get it there. Maybe there is some positive energy that can come as a result of the George Floyd tragedy, but that energy has to be channeled.
- Take advantage of momentum. Even just yesterday, NASCAR banned confederate symbolism from their events. That’s a good thing. There is societal momentum and a chance to use this to get a good result.
- Republican voters particularly need leaders they respect to tell them that amending this symbolism is OK. That sounds self-explanatory, but it’s still tough. Philip Gunn and Roger Wicker are the two most notable people who have certainly made their feelings known on the flag but neither expended a lot of political capital on the issue. We need rural voices of trust in areas where this is less popular to take the lead on this. More people that voters trust need to come out in favor of a new flag proposal that everyone can get behind . . . and it may not be the Stennis Flag design that a lot of people have gathered around. I’ll get to that later.
We need to be asking policy makers and voters a different question. The question heretofore has been, “Would you support getting rid of the existing flag because it’s a racist symbol?” I think it is, but that’s just me. Many Mississippians who vote have come to a different conclusion. Instead of asking them the same question over and over again (and getting the same answer over and over again), we need to ask them a different question. Former Speaker Pro-Tem Greg Snowden had come up with a solution that was brilliant.
A co-equal flag.
Hear me out. Instead of asking legislators or voters to get rid of what we have (which forces them to demonstrably repudiate the past), what about having them consider advancing another flag design of equal stature so that any entity in Mississippi or beyond could opt for the existing state flag or a new state flag design, and it still be “official”. That is a MUCH MUCH easier vote that can happen quickly. For conservatives, it essentially gives people a choice and that’s a very conservative/liberty-oriented position.
Say, for instance, the Seal Flag or the Magnolia Flag were advanced as a co-equal flag with the existing flag. The US Capitol would likely opt to fly that in place of our current flag, and that would be just fine. There might be some communities that like the existing flag that could opt to keep flying it. I think the inevitable result is that 90%+ of all governmental entities would likely choose to fly the new flag. After a couple of years, you’d likely have a huge imbalance of what flag is flown. Then, maybe, one day the decision is made to retire the old flag officially.
The politics in the state Legislature is that, at this point, you’d have to have enough votes in both chambers to Suspend the Rules. That’s a 2/3rds vote, which makes the legislative hurdle that much higher. Again, you might could get support if Republican leaders were brought on board to do that with the co-equal flag idea and you might could get that done without a referendum. In essence, how people and entities fly the flag essentially becomes the referendum (where you don’t actually need a vote at the polls) and gives an artful way for politicians to say that “the voters have decided”.
And then there’s the question of design.
My top 3 are
- The Mississippi Seal Flag;
- The Magnolia Flag, which flew over Mississippi before our existing flag; and
- The Stennis Flag. While that flag is light years better than what we have, it bears the name Stennis. Although it was designed by Lauren Stennis, when people in Mississippi hear “Stennis” they think John and not Lauren. John Stennis was a segregationist US Senator from Mississippi and it’s hard to believe that we would replace our flag with racist symbolism with anything that may ultimately get drafted with that connotation. But regardless, Lauren gets huge kudos for advancing the cause.
Although there have been voices in the black community on the need to change, there’s not been unanimity of what the replacement should be. This is an interesting perspective from the Ole Miss Rhodes Scholar Arielle Hudson.
Also, this effort will take a bunch of money to do it the right way and it will likely need to be run by and targeted to Republicans.
And then there’s the media.
The reporting over the last 72 hours about the effort in Mississippi has been embarassing and done damage. Real damage. Adam Gauncheau of Mississippi Today wrote an article that could be portrayed as either wildly inaccurate or intentionally misleading. Then a follow-up article that doesn’t have any House Republicans on the record supporting came out. The state of affairs in the state Capitol is that there is enormous pressure on Democrats from their constituents to act and act right now in response to the George Floyd tragedy. The flag seems to be the lowest hanging fruit of which there is some support, from both black and white Mississippians, to make a change. But there’s not a massive movement afoot among legislative Republicans as Mississippi Today is trying to sell. There just isn’t. This is an incredibly delicate balance, and unbridled “click-chasing” is the sort of thing that will really mess things up. Not to mention that the House Republicans we’ve talked to say there’s “almost a zero chance” they’ll vote unless they essentially have the votes guaranteed on the Senate side with full leadership support.
Liberal moneyed media interests largely need to muzzle their attack dogs on this issue if there’s to be any hope whatsoever. They are hurting and not helping the cause. Both Democrat and Republican legislators I’ve visited with have said so. The more that local and national liberal media demagogue the issue for clicks and media echo-chamber virtue signaling, the harder it will be to win it. Those who backed Initiative 42 probably will remember.
Like every idea, mine has drawbacks. It might be easy to dismiss this as a “separate but equal” thing. I would argue that it’s “separate and co-equal”. And I get that it’s not ideal. Were I king for a day, I’d fix it. But I’m not and I can’t. The goal of this, however, is to bring more folks together faster and not keep them apart. I absolutely believe this is the way to progress toward the goal of minimizing and ultimately removing symbolism that really doesn’t embody who we are or how far we’ve come.
This is a winnable issue. Like all things in Mississippi, it’s complicated. But the numerically inferior need to be tactically, strategically and financially superior to win the day.
Let’s work to make that happen soon.


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Free WordPress Theme for Wedding Photographer
A friend of mine was looking for a wedding photograph blog theme, he asked me how he could be able to find one, that was when I realised how difficult it could be to get it online as I searched and searched but I couldn’t see, eventually I came up with this:
Photoblog v1 is a Free WordPress Theme designed by a Wedding Photographer for Wedding Photographers. The simplicity of Photoblog v1 makes this theme a great example of how Wedding Photo blogging supposed to be. Easy to browse, large image and attractive.
Photoblog v1 was released for FREE by Myklikers Photography.


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Oral Health and Medical Conditions
Oral Health and the Connection to Diabetes
According to the American Diabetes Association, 25.8 million adults and children, or 8.3% of the U.S. population suffer from diabetes.1 If trends continue, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that as many as one in three U.S. adults could develop diabetes by the year 2050.2 Healthcare professionals have long known of the relationship between diabetes and periodontal disease.1 In fact, the American Academy of Periodontology considers gum disease the sixth complication of diabetes.3
Diabetes causes elevated blood glucose levels that can damage the circulatory system, restricting blood flow to the gums, making periodontal tissue and bone more susceptible to infection.4 This condition creates an increased risk for cavities and gum disease.5, 6 The association between these conditions may also work in reverse7, with gum disease hindering attempts to control blood glucose levels.
1“Get the facts on Diabetes.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Accessed 2012.
2 "Diabetes Statistics.”Copyright 2012 American Diabetes Association. From http://www.diabetes.org. Reprinted by permission of the American Diabetes Association.
3 “Diabetes and Oral Health How Does Diabetes Affect the Mouth.” National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. Accessed 2012.
4“Diabetes and oral health.” Copyright 2012 American Diabetes Association. From http://www.diabetes.org. Reprinted by permission of the American Diabetes Association.
5 “Dentists Can Help Diagnose Diabetes.” Delta Dental.
6 “Dental Health Also At Risk for People with Diabetes.” Delta Dental.
7“Gum Disease and Diabetes.” American Academy of Periodontology. Accessed 2012.
Oral Health and the Connection to Heart Disease
Coronary heart disease is the single largest cause of death in the United States. According to the American Association of Periodontology, research has shown that individuals with gum disease are almost twice as likely to suffer coronary artery disease.1
Periodontal disease and heart disease share many of the same risk factors, smoking and excess weight, both of which are controllable and preventable.2,3 These risk factors also influence other serious health conditions, such as diabetes, which is also linked to periodontal disease.
The connections between these diseases clearly indicate that periodontal disease can aggravate existing heart conditions:
• Periodontal disease causes gum inflammation, increasing plaque buildup and swelling of the arteries.
• When this bacterium enters the bloodstream, it affects the heart by attaching to fatty plaques in the arteries and contributing to plaque formation. The result may be acute cardiac syndrome, reducing blood flow to the heart.3
1 “Gum Disease Links to Heart Attack and Stroke.” American Association of Periodontology. Accessed 2012.
2 “Heart Disease and Stroke: An Oral Health Link.” Delta Dental. 3 “What Does Your Mouth Say About Your Heart?” American Association of Periodontology. Accessed 2012.


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We will always promote customer-centricity. All of the employees especially members of the customer service team are required to take part in customer service training, aiming to strengthen their empathy and a better understanding of customers' needs.


Former West Virginia State Senator Sue Cline (R-Wyoming County) has passed away at the age of 75, just days before the New Year.
Cline was an important figure in the West Virginia Republican Party and played a crucial role in swinging the state’s power balance from blue to red in 2016.
Cline would serve her first term in office before being primaried in the 2020 election by Senator David “Bugs” Stover. Cline’s passing shocked many and, unfortunately, it seems that her death was unexpected.
West Virginia Senate President Craig Blair issued a statement on Cline’s death saying, “I was shocked to learn this morning of the passing of former Senator Sue Cline. Sue was one of the most dedicated members I have ever served with in the West Virginia Legislature. She was a fighter and a tireless advocate for the families of her district. Her love of her state and her country were second to none. My thoughts and prayers are with her family as they remember and celebrate her life in the coming days.”
Cline was not only an influential figure but also a universally respected figure.
Senate Minority Leader Stephen Baldwin (D-Greenbrier) issued a statement saying, “I was heartbroken to learn of the death of our former colleague, Senator Sue Cline, this morning, On behalf of our Democratic caucus, we express our sincere condolences to Sue’s family, friends, and colleagues. I served with Sue for three years and enjoyed getting to know her. She was straightforward, passionate about helping southern West Virginia, and immensely proud of her family. We worked together on a flood relief issue a few years ago, and I saw what a fierce advocate she was for her region. She will be missed, and we thank God for her service to the state of West Virginia.”
Sue Cline will indeed be missed, but her memory will live on not only through her family, but also the people of West Virginia that she worked so hard to help.


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Indie Films Matter!!
Congrats to 2019 Arizona Film Fest filmmakers, volunteers, sponsors and audiences. 100 films, 22 countries, 12 days of indie bliss. Congrats to the 24 filmmakers from 9 countries that won awards. A record number of filmmakers attended their screenings as faraway as Albania, Australia, China and Taiwan - what a great gathering of international talent.
Welcome to the 2019 Arizona International Film Festival
Staying true to its mission of showcasing independent film, the Arizona International Film Festival has exhibited over 2,800 films representing 95 countries to over 160,000 patrons in southern Arizona. And now, the 28th edition will select more exciting and innovative films from around the world for Arizona audiences.
Award-Winning Doc Closes Festival
Aloha! The award-winning documentary “Moananuiākea: One Ocean. One People. One Canoe" closed the 2019 Arizona International Film Festival on Sunday, April 21 at 7:00pm. This amazing documentary inspires people to have pride and determination to steward and restore the Earth. Closing Night Party at the Highwire Gallery brought together filmmakers from Albania, Australia, China and Taiwan to exchange ideas and contacts for future projects. Indie Filmmakers Matter!
Read our Filmmaker Interviews in our ZINE!
Check out our ZINE! Featuring insightful interviews with past festival filmmakers. Enjoy the newly added interviews with the directors of Dawning (China), Collisions (USA), Rag Doll (USA), To Hell and Gone (USA) and Mine 9 (USA). Thank you to our Asian Cinema consultant, Andy Marco, based in Shanghai, for conducting these interviews.
Making Films is Challenging
An informative discussion with Festival filmmakers about facing production challenges head-on at the CONNECT with Filmmakers panel on the second Saturday at The Screening Room. Panelists included Tara Johnson-Medinger (director of My Summer as a Goth), documentarian Laurie Little (Totalité), writer Marc Feller (Evie) and Yuanhao Du (director of Patrick). If you missed this panel, you can catch it on Facebook.
Guess Who is Coming to the Festival
You never know who will drop in for their screening. From Rockabul, Qais, a member of the band featured and producer, Billy Gould, best known as the bassist of Faith No More held a lively Q&A after the screening. The filmmakers of Almost Ghosts from Spain presented their unusual documentary on Route 66 to an appreciative crowd. And Shannon Murray who gives a rousing performance in Rag Doll kept the audience in their seats with her energetic Q&A. Remember Indie Films Matter!!
Meet Our Visiting Filmmakers
Congrats to filmmakers Richard Perry (Six Days of Sistine) from London, Ellen Brodsky and Priscila Reyes (25 Texans in the Land of Lincoln) and Len Morris (Children of Bal Ashram) for their informative Q&A sessions. You can reprise them on our Facebook page.
Concert at Hotel Congress
A great impromptu concert by Alana Sweetwater on Sunday when Alana performed the original soundtrack from APPLE SEED which had its world premiere at The Screening Room. The screening was a tribute to Rance Howard and his final performance.
The Making of TO HELL AND GONE
Thank you to Kyle Moore (director), Carr Cavendar (actor/producer) and Sean Carney (composer) for sharing their story about the making of "To Hell and Gone" on Saturday morning. If you missed this enlightening conversation, you can watch it on our Facebook page.
OPENING NIGHT FILM SOLD OUT
The 2019 Arizona International Film Festival is pleased to announce that the Opening Night film, GUEST ARTIST starring Jeff Daniels, was a sell-out. The Opening Night Celebrations at the historic Hotel Congress was a smash. Thank you Hotel Congress and Kai Carlson-Wee for reading your poetry.
2019 Festival Co-Chairs Announced
The Festival is pleased to announce that this year Festival Co-Chairs are David Slutes, the Entertainment Director of Hotel and Club Congress and Alba Jaramillo, a community leader in social justice and human rights and the arts. David is a vital leader in the Tucson music scene and has made many contributions to the growth of downtown Tucson. Alba is a stage actress and founder of Teatro Dignidad, a new theater company that stages plays that address human rights, and performed solo in their first play “Digna.”
Announcing 2019 Festival Line-up
The Selection Committee has released their selection of films including 28 features and 72 shorts from 22 countries for screening at the 28th anniversary Arizona International Film Festival. The Selection Committee praised the quality and diversity of the record number of films submitted this year. Congratulations filmmakers!
Tucson Welcomes Festival Filmmakers
Out-of-town visitors have a variety of choices when it comes to resting their heads after an exciting day at the Festival! Hotel Tucson, where cinematic legend John Wayne used to stay, the historical Hotel Congress, which housed and aided in the arrest of infamous bank robber John Dillinger, the Ramada Inn located on the modern streetcar line and Country Inn & Suites. Each hotel features discounted rates for anyone attending the Arizona International Film Festival. Watch here for more information and rates.
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram and Twitter!
You will get the latest updates, tips, insider info, reviews, specials, discounts and connect with other fest-goers.
Partner with the 2020 Arizona International Film Festival
The Festival is an excellent way to advertise your company and support independent expression. We have sponsorships and advertising for every marketing budget. If you are interested in partnering with us, please email us at email@example.com or click here for sponsorship opportunities.
Best of Arizona
Congrats to the Arizona International Film Festival for being selected the 8th Best Festival in Arizona. Only Film Festival in the list of 15 Festivals and the highest ranked Festival in Tucson. Click here to see list.


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PORTSMOUTH – Despite the fact the region was buried by snow in February, home and condominium sales were better than they were a year ago.
Sales volume for single-family homes was up 13.2 percent, while the volume for residential condos was up 35.4 percent in a comparison of February 2015 and February 2014 transactions on file with the Rockingham County Register of Deeds. Sales information was analyzed for the Seacoast communities of Brentwood, East Kingston, Epping, Exeter, Greenland, Hampton, Hampton Falls, Kensington, New Castle, Newfields, Newington, Newmarket, North Hampton, Portsmouth, Rye, Seabrook and Stratham.
According to the data, 65 houses in this region sold for a total of $25.8 million in February, compared to 59 houses that sold for $22.8 million last February. Sixty-one homes sold for $26 million in January. Among condos, 38 units in the region sold for $9.6 million in February 2015 while 34 units sold in February 2014 for $7.1 million. In January, 37 condos sold for $11.1 million.
The Seacoast Board of Realtors, in an analysis of the 13 communities it tracks, said February set new monthly highs for at least the past five years for both condo and single-family home closed sales. The sample communities are Exeter, Greenland, Hampton, Hampton Falls, New Castle, Newfields, Newington, North Hampton, Newmarket, Portsmouth Rye, Seabrook and Stratham.
The Board of Realtors said last February was the slowest month of all 2014, but this February was a marked improvement over last year and January. Single-family home sales were up 32.5 percent over last February while condos were up 17.8 percent in the communities it tracks.
“Despite the snow banks and cold weather the popularity and desirability of the Seacoast remained strong, and all that even during a traditionally slow month,” said Seacoast Board of Realtors President Marion Cheney.
Portsmouth, according to registry filings, saw a 76.9 percent increase in its condo sales volume from last February to this February – from $7.8 million to $10.7 million. The February volume also exceeded January’s volume, which was $8.7 million. The average sale price of a condo in the city was $424,780 in February, a 6.2 percent increase over last year.
House sales in Portsmouth, meanwhile, were up 19.2 percent in the year-over-year comparison – $6.4 million on 14 sales in February 2014 versus $5.4 million on 12 sales in February 2013, a 19.2 percent difference. The average of a house sale in Portsmouth was $460,200, up 2.2 percent from last February.
Condo sales in Hampton were up 73.5 percent for the period. Ten condos sold for $2.7 million last month, while seven units sold for $1.6 million in February 2014, a 73.5 percent difference. Total volume was $1.6 million also on seven sales in January. The average price of a condo in Hampton was $269,350, an increase of 21.4 percent.
Homes sales volume in Hampton was $3 million on eight transactions, up 25.4 percent on $2.4 million last February. Sales totaled $3.3 million in January. The average price of a home that sold in Hampton was $376,788, up 9.8 percent.
Exeter showed a mixed bag in February – home sales volume of $2.6 million was up a 3.3 percent, while condo sales volume of $634,550 was down 59.9 percent. The average price of a house in town was $288,767, while the average price of a condo was $126,910, both down from February 2014.
Stratham saw home sales fall by 30 percent – $1.7 million on three transactions and condo sales dropped by 13.9 percent – $265,900 on two transactions. The average price of a house in Stratham was $553,000, and the average price of a condo was $132,950, both down from last February.
The number of foreclosure deeds statewide reported for January 2015, the latest month available, was the lowest for that month since 2006, according to the New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority. The 138 foreclosure deeds recorded in January reflect a decrease of 29 percent from January 2014, and a 25 percent decrease from December 2014. The cumulative total of foreclosures for 2014 was 23 percent below that of 2013 and nearly identical to the total in 2007, the first full year of the housing market collapse as part of the Great Recession, according to the authority.

domain: finance


MANCHESTER, N.H. — A professional dancer from Haiti who lost her leg in that country’s recent earthquake will soon be dancing again, thanks to a New Hampshire group’s generosity.Fabienne Jean, 32, ran from her home the day of the earthquake, only to be injured when a brick wall collapsed on her. After sitting in a hospital bed for days without medical care, her leg had become so infected it had to come off.A folk dancer by trade, she said she was convinced life would never be the same.Dennis Acton’s wife operates the New England Brace Co. and leads the NEBCO Foundation. They traveled to Haiti after the earthquake and helped people like Jean who lost limbs in the disaster.For the past year, Jean has been wearing a prosthetic that allows her to walk. But she recently arrived in New Hampshire to be fitted for something new.”I prayed and thank God every day that he sent Dennis,” Jean said through a translator.Acton said his team decided when they were in Haiti to see each case through to its completion. For Jean, that means doing what they can to allow her to dance again. His company is fitting her for a special leg that will let her dance.”The difference is in the foot,” Acton said. “It’s called an energy-starving foot, so it will give her more response when she dances.”The NEBCO Foundation receives private donations to help people like Jean. To learn more about its mission, go to its website.


The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) once again advised pregnant women to curb consumption of fish in order to limit fetal exposures to neurotoxic mercury. This warning raises the baffling query: How can the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) justify its recommendations that pregnant women get flu shots which are laden with far more mercury than what's found in a can of tuna?
Lead, chromium, nickel and other metals linked to brain damage and IQ deficits were detected in every adjuvant sample tested by the vaccine industry, study confirms Italian research
On Jan. 10th, 2010, the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, administering bivalent oral polio vaccine (bOPV) to two infants at the Mahabodhi Temple Complex in the Indian state of Bihar, Buddhism's holiest site – the very place where Guatama Buddha was said to have attained enlightenment approximately 2500 years earlier.
If you asked “Do vaccinations cause autism?” to anyone in the medical establishment, government or drug industry, the answer would be a firm NO, but why?
We need studies on vaccinated populations based on various schedules and doses as well as individual patient susceptibilities that we are continuing to learn about
The long arm of the pharmaceutical industry and its money has corrupted government health agencies and their flu vaccination policies.
CDC Misleads Nations Ob/Gyns -Covering-up Of The Most Massive Fetal Death Reports Associated With The Influenza Vaccine in the History of Vaccine Adverse Events Reporting System (VAERS)
Is Autism a disease of impaired detoxification? Does the accumulative toxic load from vaccinations, GMOs, and acetaminophen contribute to this impaired detoxification?
Why Buildings Have Stricter Quality Controls than Pediatric Vaccine Trials
Vaccines have been linked to hundreds of diseases including autism. Now, thanks to emerging science, we can add depression to the laundry list of issues vaccines can contribute to causing.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) claims that tens of thousands of people die annually from the flu, but what the public isn’t told is that these numbers come from controversial models that may greatly overestimate, which happens to align with the CDC’s stated aim of using fear marketing to increase demand for flu vaccines.
What if vaccines have never been soundly confirmed to be safe and effective? What if the CDC, vaccine manufacturers and advocates knew of these discrepancies and contradictions, yet intentionally ignored them against the public interests?
GreenMed Info exclusive excerpt from the upcoming book, How to End the Autism Epidemic.
With the flu season hysteria nearing its peak, millions are being driven to vaccination as a 'preventive' approach. Those who abstain are often accused of being uneducated or worse, socially irresponsible "anti-vaxxers." Nothing could be further from the truth.
Cover-ups and lies: Vaccine injury has been a serious problem since the very beginning.
The recent CDC whistleblower scandal has revealed more than just falsified and fraudulent manipulation of data covering up the vaccine and autism connection.
A Newsweek propaganda piece absurdly lies that vaccination entails no health risks -- and that anyone who knows better has no "faith in science"
The voices behind the victims of vaccine injury are becoming harder and harder for the establishment to ignore as the evidence mounts ever higher.
Two new studies by international teams, including Egyptian scientists, have validated the link between autism and mercury.
A recent study finds the CDC may have covered up the clear and present danger associated with mercury in vaccines.
Environmental and humanitarian legend RFK, Jr., mainstream media, and the very corrupt CDC. Interview by Autism File executive editor, Rita Shreffler
Not only are there serious questions about the efficacy of the flu vaccine, there is evidence to suggest that getting the vaccine every year may cause damage to the immune system.
Cruelty toward babies starts at birth. It really starts before birth but that is another tale. Many parents have heard horror stories, and have serious doubts about vaccinating. Even that first injection of vitamin K is not without risk and danger. This article is for parents in the situation where they are forced into a corner for one of many reasons and feel like they have to vaccinate their children.


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JENIN, (PIC)– Israeli occupation forces (IOF) stormed at dawn Wednesday Tobas city and nearby Fara’a valley and performed military exercises and combed both areas.
Eyewitnesses said that IOF performed military drills in the valley after a landing operation using helicopter gunships and fired flare bombs in the process.
IOF soldiers also stormed Faqu’a village, east of Jenin, and combed its alleys and streets before stationing in the vicinity of the village’s main mosque.
IOF troops on Tuesday afternoon broke into the village of Orif, south of Nablus, and attacked the village’s secondary school, locals said, adding that the soldiers ordered the headmaster to evacuate the school immediately and to turn himself in.
Eyewitnesses said that the soldiers used violent means in storming the village, recalling that they had frequently attacked the village earlier this week firing teargas canisters, stun grenades, and rubber bullets at citizens.
They said that dozens of the village inhabitants were treated for gas suffocation including a month old baby girl.


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The topic that I chose is the Bipolar disorder. I chose this topic because a few people have told me they think I am bipolar because of my mood swings, so I wanted to learn more about this topic.
Bipolar disorder is also known as manic-depressive illness. Bipolar disorder is a brain disorder that causes unexpected change in someoneÃÂs mood, activity, and their ability to function. The symptoms of bipolar disorder are serious, it can result in messed up relationships, poor job or school performance, and even sometimes suicide. Bipolar disorder can be treated and people with this illness can lead full and beneficial lives. The cycles of bipolar disorder can last for days, weeks or months.
The periods of highs and lows of bipolar disorder are called episodes of mania and depression. During a crazy/manic episode, a person might quit a job, make themselves go in debt, or they may feel rested after only sleeping two hours.
Then during a depressive episode, the same person might be too tired to get out of bed and very worried about being in debt.
Bipolar disorder affects just about three out of every 100 adults in the U.S. according to the National Institutes of Mental Health. Bipolar disorder usually develops in late adolescence or early adulthood, although some people have their first symptoms during childhood. Usually it is not recognized as an illness and some people suffer for years before it is diagnosed and treated. Bipolar is a long-term illness that must be carefully maintained throughout someoneÃÂs life.
Some signs and symptoms of mania would be: increased energy, activity, and restlessness, extreme irritability, racing thoughts and talking fast, jumping from one idea to another. A lot of people who have this disorder get distracted very easily and have a hard time...

domain: medical


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Huawei Solar on Open Homes Australia
If you’re in the process of building a new home, the design decisions you make now can have a huge impact on your energy bills for years to come.
On this week’s episode of Open Homes Australia, Natalee Bowen, one of Australia’s best-known and most awarded designers, meets a family who have ensured the future of their stunning new build against high energy bills with smart design choices and brilliant Huawei solar, inverter and battery solution supplied and installed by Empower Solar Perth.
Last week, Energy Matter CEO Rosh Ramnarain also sat down with Natalee for a one-on-one chat about award-winning show Renovate or Rebuild, his design studio Indah Island and this week’s episode of ‘Open Homes Australia.
Below is a recap of Empower Solar’s Open Homes Australia feature and some highlights from Rosh’s interview with Natalee.
A modern house designed around family life
In Episode 5 of Open Homes Australia, we head to Floreat, WA – one of the crown jewels of the city of Cambridge. Nestled between the city and the sea, Floreat’s modern architecture, picturesque parks, state-of-the-art amenities and strong sense of community define what a vibrant and diverse suburb should be.
Here, Natalee meets Wei, whose young family has just moved into their brand new modern and contemporary home. Wei gives Natalee the grand tour, showing off the home’s unique and stylish features, each carefully selected to suit her family’s needs and lifestyle.
Large and spacious yet inviting through the use of subtle hues and natural materials, the home is filled with just the right amount of natural light.
With two young children, Wei and his wife wanted to make sure their new home was comfortable and practical, without sacrificing style. They achieved this by installing wooden floors with underfloor heating throughout – perfect for little feet on cold winter mornings!
Another practical but luxurious touch is the wine cellar under the stairs. It’s not only a smart storage solution, but also a stunning showcase feature when you first enter the house.
Upstairs is a kid’s paradise, with a magazine-worthy playroom and whimsical yet tastefully decorated children’s bedrooms.
A Perth home wouldn’t be complete without incorporating indoor/outdoor living, and this home is no exception. Large windows and sliding glass doors open the living area onto the terrace and pool, creating a seamless indoor/outdoor entertaining space, perfect for Perth’s sunny climate.
Empowering Owners with Huawei
A large five-bedroom house with lots of living space, high ceilings and luxurious touches such as underfloor heating is truly a dream come true – but could easily spell disaster for your energy bills!
Wei and his wife were aware of the high cost of running a large home and decided to take proactive steps to future-proof their new construction against rising electricity prices.
Their approach was twofold – the first goal was to minimize their need for electricity by making smart design choices such as orienting the house to make the most of natural light. They were also looking for energy-efficient windows.
“We specifically requested double glazing with commercial-grade framing for all windows,” Wei said.
The second tactic was to install a Huawei solar and energy storage solution supplied and installed by Empower Solar Perth, which would offset their energy consumption and significantly reduce their electricity bills. The 14 kW system includes east and north facing solar panels, a Huawei LUNA home battery and the latest inverter from Huawai.
Natalee spoke with Anthony Lentini of Empower Solar Perth about what sets the company apart from the competition.
“We’re probably the only fully 5-star rated renewable energy company in WA right now,” he said.
Natalee asked Anthony how his team helped Wei and his family achieve their goal of saving on energy costs.
“Because we knew the bills were going to be huge, we knew straight away that they needed at least 10kW of inverters, plus in-home battery storage…we have 10kW of storage for the night,” he said.
Both Anthony and Natalee agreed that it was “impossible” to get solar power in WA with all that beautiful sunlight to harness, and the supplied solar panels and Huawei inverter and battery solution were the ideal solution for the family.
Energy Matters’ Rosh provided some additional details on the Huawei LUNA Home Battery, explaining that it is a flexible and modular choice, offering 5kW modules expandable up to 30kW of battery storage.
Wei and her family are now saving hundreds of dollars a month on their electricity bills. They can feel empowered knowing that they have not only made a wise investment in their own family’s future, but that by choosing solar power they are also doing their part to help the environment.
Watch the full episode here on 9Now.
On the Road to Zero Podcast: Natalee Bowen
In this episode, Energy Matter CEO Rosh Ramnarain sat down with Natalee Bowen, who has worked in the design industry for over 20 years. Renowned Hamptons expert and founder of the Indah Island design studio, Natalee’s work has received numerous industry awards and is now featured in countless magazines, social media and TV programs such as Dream Homes, Ready Set Reno, Luxury Homes Revealed, Best Houses Australia and Through. the front door.
Below are some highlights from the interview – the full podcast can be viewed via the video linked above or streamed for free on Spotify here.
Rosh kicked off the interview by asking Natalee about her early days in the design industry. Natalee joked that while it’s technically been 20 years since she started her career, it seems like a lifetime.
“My dad was a builder, so I probably started when I was two,” she laughed.
“You know, going to construction sites, picking up stuff and making stuff – it’s one of those things that’s always been with me.”
She also gave insight into how she managed to maintain such a long and successful career in the design industry.
“You always have to be smart. In the ever-changing world of design and products and all things creativity, you always have to be on your game.”
Natalee has proven she is more than capable of adapting to industry trends and changes, expanding her wildly successful design studio Indah Island to offer an end-to-end design and build service.
“Indah Island started off more focused on interior design… my whole business has evolved from beautiful styling to getting a builder’s license – so we now encompass everything from start to finish”.
“It’s deliberate, just because to make it beautiful you have to do the foundation – you literally have to work from scratch to create these amazing homes.”
Although she is based in Washington, Indah Island has clients all over Australia and even overseas in cities like New York and even the Hamptons, the birthplace of her signature style.
Later in the interview, Rosh and Natalee talked about sustainable home design and their journey on the hit show Renovate or Rebuild where Natalee was a judge.
“The show emulates this great conversation starter… what is a 5 star building?”
She explained how the show influenced her customers, who previously didn’t care about sustainable design ‘stuff’, to suddenly think hard about how many stars they should have and what their diary bill should be. energy could end up costing depending on their design decisions.
“The show really started that conversation,” she said.
“It was a great experience and I’m really looking forward to the next series.”
Find the rest of the interview via the links above!
Open Homes Australia: Season 5 is streaming now
When you buy a house, you’re not just buying a roof over your head – you’re buying a place of your own, a sanctuary from the outside world. Your home should reflect your unique style and personality, and it should be a space you are proud to come back to at the end of a long day.
At Energy Matters, we believe the best homes are designed with sustainability in mind – not only will a sustainably designed home keep you comfortable all year round, it will save you thousands in utility bills. energy while preserving the environment.
Energy Matters is delighted to partner with Open Homes Australia for its 5th season.
This season continues the tradition of showcasing incredible Australian homes, breathtaking designs and sustainable choices that are sure to inspire and impress. Featuring some of Australia’s most recognizable designers and creatives, plus many of your favorite seasons of The Block and Renovate or Rebuild – this is a show not to be missed!
Watch the next episode on Saturday, April 16 at 4:30 p.m. on 9Life!