During this edition of Town Talk, Mike McCool, our publisher, has a conversation with Lynn Downs from the Arc of Warren County. The Arc of Warren County is committed to establishing all-encompassing communities, schools, and prospects for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Over the course of fifty years, The Arc of Warren has collaborated with community members and leaders to enhance the quality of life for those with disabilities. The organization offers various programs, ranging from public education to transportation services. By providing education, advocacy, and a network of compassionate caregivers, The Arc wants each individual to attain complete inclusion and active participation within their community for their lifetime.
The Arc will hold a monthly parent’s meeting on February 28th at 6:30 pm in the Parish Hall of Calvary Episcopal Church, 132 N. Royal Avenue, Front Royal. During the session, learn how to navigate through the resources in Warren County that provide services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Participants will be able to talk with other parents and caregivers who have experience with these resources to have a clearer picture of maximizing these available opportunities. Childcare will be available.
There will also be an Inclusive Bingo event on Monday, March 20th, at 4:00 pm at Samuels Public Library. Come out, play a bingo game, win prizes, and make new friends!
Future events include a picnic and the development of a brand-new website!
To keep up with all the happenings and to connect with other caregivers, visit, The Arc’s Facebook page at this link, and for more information, call (540) 692-3970.
Town Talk is a Royal Examiner series that features interviews with influential local entrepreneurs, business owners, non-profit leaders, and political figures who shape the landscape of Warren County. Our discussions cover diverse topics that we hope will capture your interest. If you have a specific person or topic you’d like to hear about within our community, don’t hesitate to let us know. You can send your request to firstname.lastname@example.org.
Bridge of Hope: Providing More Than Just a Roof Overhead
Supporting homeless families through housing, life skills, and community.
While many may be familiar with the numerous charitable organizations across Warren County, one standout organization, “Bridge of Hope Greater Warren,” is taking a unique approach to addressing family homelessness in the region. Instead of just offering a temporary shelter, they provide a holistic support system.
In a recent talk with Mike McCool at the Royal Examiner studio, Mandy McCarthy, the chair of Bridge of Hope Greater Warren, outlined the multifaceted ways they are helping families in need. Bridge of Hope is a national Christian faith-based nonprofit. Rather than only providing shelter, they also offer case management services that assist families in budgeting, setting life goals, and finding resources like transportation and employment opportunities. Their strategy involves working directly with landlords to secure housing, guaranteeing rents, and working with families to ensure a transition from dependence to independence.
Beyond the board members and the active community involvement, there’s also a group of “neighboring volunteers” who act as a support system for the homeless families, helping to alleviate the isolation and stress often faced by those in such challenging circumstances.
Funding, of course, remains pivotal. The organization, though officially established in Warren County last April, has made significant strides in fundraising. The goal? To ensure they have sufficient funds to support a family for a year, inclusive of their housing and other wraparound services.
In a bid to raise more awareness and funds, the community is invited to a benefit concert hosted at the Front Royal Presbyterian Church on Sunday, September 24, 2023, at 3:00 p.m. The concert is by donation, so please give generously. A local ensemble, the Saturday Morning Brass Project, is slated to perform, with the event also featuring silent auctions. Local businesses, from bakeries to flower shops and even home design studios, have chipped in, offering a range of items and experiences to be auctioned off.
But the numbers don’t lie – homelessness remains a pressing issue in Warren County. A recent study by the local school system identified 95 homeless children in the area, underscoring the gravity of the situation and the urgent need for interventions.
At its heart, Bridge of Hope aims not just to provide a home but also to empower families, ensuring children grow up in stable environments without the looming threat of homelessness.
Bridge of Hope Greater Warren stands out not just because of its mission but because of its holistic approach to combating homelessness. As Mandy aptly put it, “We’re not doing for people, we’re giving them a helping hand.” By focusing on empowerment, community support, and skill development, the organization is ensuring that help is more than just temporary. It’s a bridge to a brighter future.
St. Luke Community Clinic’s 27th Annual Benefit: A Blend of Charity and Community Spirit
Where Health Meets Heart: The St. Luke Impact.
In the heart of Front Royal, a haven of hope and health resonates with the sounds of gratitude and commitment. St. Luke Community Clinic, under the thoughtful guidance of Vicki Davies, its Executive Director, and with the help of Nancy Rose, the Outreach Specialist, offers more than just free medical care; it offers a beacon of hope to the underserved in our community.
St. Luke extends its hand to those who find themselves in the precarious balance of working yet not earning enough to afford insurance. Termed the ‘ALICE People,’ these individuals have jobs that don’t provide insurance, and St. Luke fills in the gap. From providing dental care to Medicare patients without dental insurance to assisting those in insurance limbo, St. Luke’s mission radiates compassion and community engagement.
In terms of staffing, they have a dedicated PA, a physician’s assistant, available three days a week. As a testament to their dedication, the clinic stands ready to assist those in need any day of the week.
Their upcoming 27th Annual Benefit and Auction, set against the picturesque backdrop of the Shenandoah Valley Golf Club, is not just an event – it’s a celebration of community spirit. Beginning at 5:30 p.m., attendees will be treated to an upscale three-course meal featuring a choice of pork, salmon, or a vegetarian dish.
The auction promises to be a vibrant blend of the unique and the luxurious. From handcrafted pieces like the Pahler guitar, lovingly created by their own PA, John Nixon, valued at over $3,000, to more sumptuous treats like the coveted Melting Pot pizza, there’s something for everyone.
Local businesses such as Cracker Barrel, Skyline Caverns, and the Apple House, to name a few, have thrown in their lot with St. Luke, reflecting the deep-rooted bond the clinic has forged with its community.
One of the significant advancements at the clinic is the introduction of a state-of-the-art dental scanner, acquired through a grant from the United Way of Shenandoah Valley. This scanner is a game-changer. Creating 3D dentures that are durable, long-lasting, and more fitting it’s a giant leap towards enhancing dental care for their patients.
What is the cost of producing these dentures? A mere $380. An angel fund is in the works to help those who might struggle even with this amount, ensuring everyone has access to this new standard of care.
The Benefit and Auction event is on September 30th. Tickets are available for $75. Businesses and individuals can also explore sponsorship opportunities. Those interested can reach out to Nancy Rose for further details. It’s not just about the event; it’s about supporting a legacy of care and compassion.
Phoenix Project: A Community’s Beacon Against Domestic Violence
Eighth Annual Fundraiser Builds Momentum.
In this Town Talk on the Royal Examiner, our publisher, Mike McCool, hosted representatives from the Phoenix Project, a dedicated organization shining a light on the issues of domestic abuse and violence. President Tana Hoffman and Fundraising Committee Co-Chair Kim Lynch provide a deep dive into the Phoenix Project’s mission and their upcoming annual event.
As autumn leaves begin to fall, the Phoenix Project isn’t just an organization preparing for the cold days ahead but a beacon of hope warming the hearts of those escaping domestic and sexual violence. On October 12, they’re inviting the community to come together for their biggest fundraiser of the year: the Wine Pull. Not only is it an opportunity to support their vital mission, but it’s also a testament to the strength and unity of a community determined to bring about change.
The heart of the Phoenix Project beats with the rhythm of empowerment, education, and community involvement. The Wine Pull event encapsulates these values, offering an evening of camaraderie, exquisite wine selections, and the collective spirit of making a difference.
Behind the delightful glasses of wine and the vibrant atmosphere, the foundation of the Phoenix Project’s Wine Pull remains its core values. Ensuring an environment where honesty, trust, and safety reigns, the event is more than just a fundraiser—it’s a celebration of the community’s commitment to eradicating domestic and sexual violence.
As attendees uncork bottles and share stories, they’re not just participating in a festive evening but cementing the promise of hope and new beginnings. Every bottle pulled, every toast made, signifies a step closer to a community free from abuse.
Join us on October 12. Let’s raise our glasses, not just to the fine wine but to the unwavering spirit of the Phoenix Project. Together, we’ll be ensuring fewer victims tomorrow, one glass at a time.
Strengthening Community Bonds: Warren County Sheriff’s Office Uplifts Outreach Efforts
Law enforcement and ARC collaborate to champion community well-being.
In a recent Town Talk at the Royal Examiner studio, Mike McCool led a conversation with Lieutenant Terry Fritts and Sergeant Robbie Seal about the intensifying community engagement efforts of the Warren County Sheriff’s Office. With autumn upon us and various community events on the horizon, the discussion underlined the profound importance of community policing and its pivotal role in bridging the gap between law enforcement and the public.
Central to the dialogue was the ARC of Warren, a cornerstone community organization dedicated to elevating the lives of individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities. The long-standing presence of ARC, under the managerial supervision of Lynn Down, is gearing up for an upcoming event to further its noble mission.
The ARC’s initiative to involve local law enforcement, especially during their bowling nights, showcased the positive impact of a uniformed presence. This partnership is but a snapshot of the Sheriff’s Office’s broader strategy to actively immerse themselves within the community.
Among the varied community programs are a monthly reading initiative at Samuels Library, the Triad Meetings held at the Senior Center, the crucial Car Seat Check Day, and the ‘Celebrate Kids Day’ event by the Warren Coalition.
But it’s not just about present engagements; remembrance plays a crucial role in community bonding. The town’s forthcoming bridge dedication to honor the service of Front Royal Police Sergeant Smedley 40 years after his tragic demise stands as a testament to this commitment.
With a keen interest in cold cases among the public, the conversation took a turn to stress the importance of finding closure in these long-unsolved mysteries.
Enter the Citizens Academy – an innovative program aiming to offer the community a deep dive into the workings of the Sheriff’s Office. This eight-week course, replete with a comprehensive curriculum ranging from community policing to firearms training, hopes to offer a transparent view of the department’s operations, fostering trust and understanding.
While the Warren County Sheriff’s Office’s duties span from regular law enforcement to court security and school resources, their relentless drive to involve, educate, and collaborate with the community is commendable. Initiatives such as these reflect not just the commitment to duty but a broader vision to serve and uplift the community. In a world where law enforcement agencies sometimes grapple with public perception, Warren County’s efforts echo a blueprint for change and connection.
Warren County Department of Social Services Ups the Ante on Employment Services
New Job Developer Megan Bowers Looks to Bridge Gap Between Employers and Job Seekers.
In a recent Town Talk with Mike McCool at the Royal Examiner, Michelle Smeltzer and the newly hired Job Developer Meghan Bowers delved into the future of Warren County’s employment landscape. With unemployment rates fluctuating and a considerable part of the community in need, the Department of Social Services (DSS) in Warren County is making waves with an expanded focus on employment services.
Megan Bowers, who officially began her role as a job developer last week, aims to serve as a bridge between job seekers and local businesses. With an impressive background in human resources, Bowers brings valuable experience to the table. She envisions a multi-faceted approach to aiding job seekers, providing everything from resume building and interview preparation to soft skills like “how to shake a hand” and “how to tie a tie.”
It’s worth noting that these services aren’t restricted to Warren County residents or those who are already clients of the DSS. Bowers is clear on this point: “It’s open to anybody. We’re prepared to help them get a job and help the local employers to find great people.”
The DSS’s strategy doesn’t stop at resume crafting or interview tips. Michelle Smeltzer, widely recognized in the community, highlighted that the department also assists job seekers with essentials like identification and Social Security cards. Smeltzer added, “If you need a phone and you’re on Medicaid or SNAP, we can help you do that.”
It appears that the DSS has evolved into a comprehensive one-stop resource, collaborating with multiple agencies like Northwestern, Warren Coalition, and the Phoenix Project, among others. They’re in the process of organizing a job fair scheduled for November 2nd, which will feature local businesses looking to hire.
One reason why the role of a job developer is increasingly critical is that technology and the avenues for job searching are continuously evolving. Bowers stated, “Technology is always changing; where to even look for a job is always changing.”
Aside from employment, the DSS is orchestrating multiple events to serve the community better. These include the annual “Jack O’Lantern Jubilee” set for October 26th and a poignant event dubbed “One Night Without a Home” on October 21st, aimed at raising awareness about homelessness.
Michelle Smeltzer expressed her excitement over two long-term homeless individuals finally securing housing. She said, “That’s what we strive for. We work with them. The thermal shelter works with them. Social services work with them.”
The Department of Social Services in Warren County is pushing boundaries, establishing itself as an essential player in not just providing emergency relief but also empowering residents for sustainable futures. With the addition of Megan Bowers as a Job Developer, the department seems geared for impact, ensuring that both job seekers and employers can find the ideal match in a challenging landscape.
Town Talk is a series on the Royal Examiner where we will introduce you to local entrepreneurs, businesses, non-profit leaders, and political figures who influence Warren County. Topics will be varied but hopefully interesting. If you have an idea topic or want to hear from someone in our community, let us know. Send your request to email@example.com
A reminder that the One Stop Resource Fair is tomorrow, September 6, 2023
Front Royal Council Highlights: Acknowledging Achievements and Pursuing Community Development
The council engages with its community, celebrates successes, and considers future initiatives.
In a recent Town Talk at the Royal Examiner’s studio, Mike McCool hosted Front Royal Mayor Lori Cockrell and Council Member Bruce Rappaport. As the duo shed light on ongoing Council affairs, a range of topics, from community development to finance department accolades, surfaced. The meeting highlighted the Council’s proactive approach to reaching out and keeping the public informed.
One significant acknowledgment was the finance department’s consecutive accolade under BJ Wilson’s leadership, achieving excellence in financing and reporting for 20 consecutive years. This consistency assures the public that the department is not just transparent but maintains an unparalleled standard of diligence.
Furthermore, in a heartwarming gesture, the Council is contemplating the dedication of the North Commerce Avenue Bridge in honor of Sergeant Dennis Smedley. This potential resolution serves as a testament to a community that remembers and mourns its heroes.
Another focal point was urban redevelopment. The rejuvenation of previously run-down areas into viable economic spaces, like the anticipated car wash, will contribute to the town’s aesthetics and economy.
On a different note, speed cameras in school zones became a subject of discussion. While they may enhance safety, the council is still considering public sentiment and possible alternatives before implementation.
Lastly, the Raymond E. Santmyers Youth Center, once a thriving hub for the youth, is under discussion. The collaboration with Reaching Out Now, led by Samantha Barber, is a promising initiative. The center’s revival may depend on public response and the town’s commitment to seed funding.
As Front Royal’s Council grapples with community matters, their engagement and commitment to transparency remain clear. From celebrating achievements to exploring development opportunities, the Council is firmly rooted in its goal of uplifting the community. As they move forward, community feedback remains pivotal in shaping the future landscape of Front Royal.
Town Talk is a series on the Royal Examiner where we will introduce you to local entrepreneurs, businesses, non-profit leaders, and political figures who influence Warren County. Topics will be varied but hopefully interesting. If you have an idea, or topic, or want to hear from someone in our community, let us know. Send your request to firstname.lastname@example.org


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domain: geography


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The Oltrarno neighborhood has long been known to be a hub of artisanal workshops. Rich in culture and history, this artisan quarter is home to many talented professionals whose original creations range from leather goods to designer jewelry, finely tailored clothes, shoes and hats. There are also experts in metalsmithing, etching, and fine art and antique restoration. These craftspeople have dedicated their lives to perfecting their techniques, many of which are centuries old, and this devotion to quality and originality is truly a cultural treasure.
This way of life, as well as some of these art forms, are now in danger of disappearing. Even before the pandemic, many botteghe in the Oltrarno faced numerous barriers to financial success.
The situation in Florence is quickly deteriorating. Countless artisans, especially those who rely on foot traffic, are struggling to keep up with rent and basic necessities. We are seeing more and more shuttered botteghe. One by one, our colleagues and friends are leaving workshops and creative pursuits that have been their lifelong passion.
Luciano Leiva, a fourth-generation leather worker and his wife, Tammara Hsiung, on witnessing this slow exodus of talent and culture, decided to take immediate action. A student of Luciano’s mother, Alicia Roca, I offered my assistance. We began to develop Luciano’s original concept of Artisan Quarter, an association dedicated to supporting a small group of local artisans in our neighborhood of San Frediano. The goals of this association are to preserve what we still have, protect those remaining from financial threat to their livelihoods and promote their work to a wider audience. We designed a model in three phases that would give the artisans greater exposure, wider access to their work online, additional revenue streams and a network for collaboration.
Before long, we had 14 botteghe signed on, representing 22 artisans. We explained the basics of our plan of support: a dynamic website to feature all of our members, an online store curated from their work, original multimedia content, SEO support to boost their brands’ online presence, and promotional ad campaigns in collaboration with bloggers, tour guides and strategic alliances. Longer-range plans include a platform for access to courses and commissions, a collaboration hub, personal shopping services and workshop façade beautification.
We are excited about the opportunities this will bring to our members and the potential it has to help others beyond San Frediano. We also realize significant funding is required to bring our dream to reality. To that end, we have begun a fundraising campaign to help us realize the goals of The Artisan Quarter Association.
Luciano Leiva, co-founder of The Artisan Quarter Association, said, “The organization is designed to scale. If we can succeed with the model here, there is potential to share it with other regions that are struggling with similar circumstances. There is a rebirth happening not just in Florence but around the world. The concept of emerging from a dark past, overcoming adversity with innovation and finding new ways to thrive, is the way forward.”
Visit www.artisanquarter.com to learn more.
Contributions can be made via the site on the GoFundMe page: theflr.net/artisanquarterfundraiser

domain: artistic


Press advocates decry Florida’s ‘Safety over Soundbites’ bill
Florida press advocates are denouncing a bill that would punish reporters and others who broadcast police tactical teams in action as a textbook case of prior restraint and an attempt to limit core speech.
But they admit that Senate Bill 166, which passed the Florida Senate last week, isn't designed specifically to restrict press freedoms but to protect law enforcement officers.
“No one doubts that's the motivation, and that's a good motivation,” said David Braylow, attorney for the Florida Society of Newspaper Editors. “Frankly, if there is a way to make their jobs safer, then we should all stand behind it. But this way doesn't make their lives and jobs any safer, but it does violate core principles of the First Amendment.”
Nicknamed the “Safety over Soundbites” bill, the measure would make it a felony in Florida to authorize the broadcast of any type of live audio or video transmission depicting a tactical law enforcement operation. The bill also would forbid the direct contact of anyone involved in a police standoff without authorization by the law enforcement agency that has jurisdiction.
The Senate approved the bill on March 21 with a 35-3 vote. The measure is now before the House Criminal Justice Appropriations Committee as House Bill 141.
State Sen. Ginny Brown-Waite, R-Brooksville, said she drafted the bill in response to the Hank Earl Carr hostage situation last year and the media coverage that followed the Miami slaying of fashion designer Gianni Versace.
In the Carr case, news reporters phoned the suspect while he was holed up in a Brownsville gas station holding a clerk hostage. Police said they couldn't use the phone to reach Carr, who had fled to the gas station after killing his son, two Tampa police officers and a state trooper. He later shot and killed himself.
Police also said that live media reports hindered efforts track down Versace's killer.
“I was very disturbed by the media's blatant disregard for safety in both the Versace murder investigation in Miami and the police pursuit and hostage negotiations with Hank Earl Carr in my district,” Brown-Waite said in a statement. “In both of those cases, tactical operations were jeopardized and police officers were endangered because of irresponsible press coverage.”
But press advocates said the measure would create an unconstitutional prior restraint on First Amendment press rights because it would allow government officials to determine what aspects of a police tactical operation may be covered.
Braylow said the bill would be applied so broadly that police officers could restrict coverage of many events. He said that the bill would have made live coverage of the Chicago Seven demonstrations at the Democratic National Convention in 1968 a felony punishable by up to five years in jail or a $5,000 fine.
Law enforcement officials support the bill, saying it creates a fair way to allow press coverage and to maintain safety at the same time.
“You have to balance allowing the press access to major crime events with the impact it has on your operations and investigations,” Hernando County Sheriff Tom Mylander said in a statement. “In the case of Hank Earl Carr, the press went too far in its attempt to keep the public informed and, in fact, became the news.”
South Miami Beach Police Chief Rick Barreto says the bill doesn't hurt press rights nor is it a vindictive measure.
“We encourage the media to help us fight the good fight,” Barreto said. “What we don't want is the media interfering with critical life or death situations such as kidnapping or hostage situations.”
But Braylow says a serious technical error in the bill would allow the officer in charge of a tactical operation to determine when the media may cover an operation live.
“If the event is over, but the officer wants to cool potential coverage, it could be two days from then before the officer allows coverage,” he said. “News is a perishable item. When there is an event like a fire or hostage situation, in our day and age, its importance is immediate.
“The bill deprives the public the immediacy of the event,” he said. “When they are looking for Kosovo coverage, they don't want images that are two days old. They want it now. And that's the nature of what [the news media does] in this electronic age.”


It’s safe to say that most people have an opinion about Drake‘s new album Scorpion, and according to Twitter, they are putting those opinions to use on the social media platform.
Twitter reports that in the past 24 hours, Drake has been tweeted about more than 3 million times. The double-disc album has been generating substantial buzz due to Drake’s revealing of a speculated secret child, his response to a highly publicized feud with fellow rapper Pusha T, and a feature on the album from Michael Jackson.
The most tweeted-about tracks:
1. “Emotionless” (Side A)
2. “In My Feelings” (Side B)
3. “8 Out of 10” (Side A)
4. “Jaded” (Side B)
5. “That’s How You Feel” (Side B)
Interestingly enough, there have been three times more tweets about the second half of the album, Side B, than the first half. Side B notably features the soul-bearing tracks “In My Feelings” and the Michael Jackson-assisted “Don’t Matter to Me.”
Check out a glimpse of some of the Twitter madness below:
I knew Drake had a kid but I can’t believe Drake really has a kid.
— SALEM (@salemmitchell) June 29, 2018
Not gon lie to y’all I don’t usually do this but this drake got me bout to start dropping insta captions on y’all for the whole month of July ——–
— Donovan Mitchell (@spidadmitchell) June 29, 2018
The production on this new Drake album is absolutely —
— Chris Baugh — (@Crispy_Ducc) June 29, 2018
Drake’s got me breaking up with a boy I’m not even seeing
— B (@BrittanyAllisa) June 29, 2018


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Author Archives: Rob Cham
Rob Cham is an illustrator, comic creator, art director and friend.
He's best known for his graphic novels Light and Lost, published by Anino Comics/Adarna House here in the Philippines and available through Buño books worldwide. Light won the National Book Award for Best Graphic Fiction - Wordless, and Lost won the National Children's Book Award. Rocketsheep Studios is set to adapt both books as an animated film.
He was born in Baguio, and currently resides in Manila.


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In November 2007 Krause was invited to be the von Hess Visiting Artist at
The University of the Arts Borowsky Center, Philadelphia. Using the Heidelberg Offset Lithography press in the center, an edition of 100 prints would be produced during her visit.
Since the printer could use metallic inks, she decided to make the offset print with silver, gold and black inks and to inset into it a chine colle inkjet print on sheer paper.
Krause began the metallic offset portion of the print by scanning a metal and plaster surface and reshaping it in Photoshop to match the press dimensions. She chose a file to inset from a series of work in process called Climate Change.
The final piece, “Black Gold”, references our dependence on oil and the damage to the environment caused by the burning of fossil fuels.
Before leaving her studio, Krause printed the landscapes to be chine colle insets on her HP Z3100 inkjet printer on sheer tissue. She divided the Photoshop file into three “separations” which would become the silver, gold and black offset plates. At the Borowsky Center, Lori Spencer, the Master Printer, prepared the film and made the offset plates.
The silver plate was printed twice to create a heavy metallic layer. The gold plate was also printed twice, over the silver, to provide additional reflectivity and depth of color. When the black plate was tested, the area which was to be overlayed with the landscape was too dark. Lori was able to remove the dark marks from the chine colle area.
After one strike of the black plate, a mylar template was made to mark the placement of the inset. With the help of Lori, Krause’ studio manager/ assistant, Mary Taylor and University of the Arts graduate students, Andrew Huot (and his wife Beth), Regan Gradet and Melissa Jacobson, the landscapes were adhered with gel medium.
The following day a second strike of the black plate was printed to cover the edges of the silk tissue. A handmade fourth plate was made to add orange to the rivets. A final touch of bright orange oil pastel was applied on top of two of the rivets.
The image size is 24″ x 17.5″ on Arches hotpress 28″ x 20″. In an edition of 100, with 6 artist proofs, prints can be obtained from the artist for $1400 unframed.
Many thanks to the Richard C. von Hess Foundation for funding this unique opportunity; Alida Fish, Harris Fogle and Jeannie Pearce, of the Media Arts Department, for extending the invitation; Lori Spencer, Master Printer Extraordinaire, for pulling it all together; Andrew Huot (and his wife Beth), Regan Gradet and Melissa Jacobson, graduate students for lending much needed helping hands and Mary Taylor, my Studio Manager/ Assistant for providing invaluable ongoing support.
Through the generosity of the Richard C. von Hess Foundation, the Borowsky Center for Publication Arts invites visiting artists to explore the creative potential of the offset medium. The Center facilitates image-making as a synthesis of hand work, photography, and digital imagery. All imaginable combinations of traditional and electronic prepress are the subject of experimentation. Selected artists work with a master printer in the Center to create an original print or an artist book. These artists are recommended from a broad array of disciplines including fine arts, photography, illustration and graphic design.


Allow us to get you acquainted with the latest 77-inch 8K UHD LG OLED. This smart TV delivers by far the best picture quality we've ever seen. This top-of-the-range LG OLED77ZX9LA features LG's third generation a9 8K AI processor and supports e.g. Cinema HDR. The picture quality is magical. From whatever angle you view the screen, the contrast remains high and the colors lifelike.
This 8K UHD television set comes with a stylish stand and a beautiful Signature Magic Remote. The 4.2 sound system delivers an output power of 60 watts and completes the cinematic experience. Want to know more? Find it here. But honestly, no matter how much we write about it, you should experience this television with your own eyes. We've got it. You are most welcome to touch it, pet it and overall experience it.


from Stories I’d like to see:
A video game called ‘School Shooting,’ backing the video gaming industry, and a qualified lawyer on hold
Last week, the Connecticut State’s Attorney issued his official report about the shooting a year ago at the Sandy Hook Elementary School. On page 26 the State’s Attorney noted that among other video games found in the home of murderer Adam Lanza was: “The computer game titled ‘School Shooting’ where the player controls a character who enters a school and shoots at students.”
from David Rohde:
President Barack Obama will have to deliver one of the finest speeches of his presidency next Tuesday if he hopes to win Congressional support for a strike against Syria. Out of nowhere, the Syria vote has emerged as one of the defining moments of Obama’s second term.
from Photographers' Blog:
Guantanamo Bay, Cuba
By Bob Strong
My visit to the U.S. naval station in Guantanamo Bay Cuba began much like any other military embed. I sent an application to the Press Affairs Office (PAO) explaining who I worked for and the reason for my visit, and a couple of weeks later the trip was approved. The base is divided into two sections, the naval station which has been in existence since 1903, and the Joint Task Force (JTF GTMO) which is where the detainees are held. A special ID is needed to access the JTF section of the base and most residents of the naval station never go there. My visit request was directed at the JTF side, but I was able to work on the naval section as well.
from The Great Debate:
On Friday morning in downtown Manhattan, Osama bin Laden’s son-in-law appeared in a federal courtroom to be charged with conspiring to kill Americans. In a sober, orderly proceeding that lasted a total of 17 minutes, Judge Lewis Kaplan explained to Suleiman Abu Ghaith his rights, appointed his defense lawyers, read the charges against him, recorded his plea of “not guilty,” ordered the prisoner’s continued detention and announced that he would set a trial date for the case in 30 days.
from Hugo Dixon:
By Hugo Dixon
If anybody can provide a measure of legitimacy to the trials of detainees in Guantanamo Bay, Brigadier General Mark Martins may be that person. Barack Obama will certainly be hoping so. Martins, who was on the Harvard Law Review with the president when they were students, has this week taken over as chief prosecutor for military commissions at a time when the highest-profile Guantanamo detainees are coming to trial. The first death penalty moved a step closer last week when a trial was ordered for Abd al-Rahim al Nashiri, who allegedly planned the bombing of USS Cole in 2000. The case of Khalid Sheikh Mohammed (KSM), the alleged mastermind of the 9/11 attacks, is likely to follow shortly afterwards, in what some people are dubbing America’s Nuremberg trial.


Will this strong US beef demand set back? June 13, 2022
Renewed concerns about the US economy on Friday and today helped reverse gains made last week from the new packing plant announcement. Beef, the premium priced protein, is wary of any changes to US consumer sentiment.
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5 of 6 Copies Available
- CENTRAL: Teen Collection
- CENTRAL: Teen Collection Graphic Novel
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Miles Morales. Marvel Universe
- GRAPHIC NOVEL SPIDER MAN BEND TEEN (CEN, EAS, OSH, WSQ)
New York, NY : Marvel Worldwide, Inc.,
1 volume (unpaged) : chiefly color illustrations ; 23 cm.
Miles Morales is hitting the big time! Not only is he joining the mainstream Marvel Universe, but he's also become a card-carrying Avenger! And he'll soon be a media sensation in this all-new, all-different New York--because when the rest of Earth's Mightiest Heroes fall, Miles must stand alone against a villain with the power to destroy the planet! Meanwhile, the Black Cat tries to get her claws into this new Spider-Man, and a new mutant threatens to grab the spotlight. But Miles' brave new world may be torn apart when Marvel's heroes go to war! Will he be forced to pick a side? Or can he and his Avengers friends Nova and Ms. Marvel find their own way? Plus: Learn the secret history of Miles' father--back when he was an Agent of S.H.I.E.L.D.!
"Spider-Man created by Stan Lee & Steve Ditko."
"Contains material originally published in magazine form as Spider-Man (2016) #1-11."
- Avengers (Fictitious characters) > Comic books, strips, etc.
- New York (N.Y.) > Comic books, strips, etc.
- Morales, Miles (Fictitious character) > Comic books, strips, etc.
- Spider-Man (Fictitious character) > Comic books, strips, etc.
- Black Cat (Fictitious character) > Comic books, strips, etc.
- Marvel, Ms. (Fictitious character) > Comic books, strips, etc.

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A pristine meadow; a snow-covered field; an autumn stand of birch trees. All quiet and peaceful places where not a creature is stirring—or so it would seem. Once you see these amazing photos of animal camouflage, you’ll soon realize that there may be no better place for these creatures to hide than in plain sight.
The willow ptarmigan (whose Latin name is, delightfully, lagopus lagopus) is native to Canada’s North. Its colouring, while definitely effective in the winter, is equally dramatic in the summer, when its feathers turn speckled brown and blend perfectly with grassy tundra and wooded thickets. Willow ptarmigans often sleep under the snow during the winter, even flying into snow banks so they don’t leave tracks.
Great horned owlGreat horned owls are widely distributed throughout North, Central, and South America, and have feathers that seem tailor-made for blending into tree bark. Although they look like ears, those “horns” you see are actually just feathery tufts. Owls’ ears, which are hidden in the feathers on the sides of their heads, are asymmetrical, meaning the birds can easily gauge the location of a sound in the dark.
With their dapply brown and white coats, white-tailed and other species of deer blend into the forest’s tree trunks and leaves quite easily. Fawns have a reddish-brown coat, which disguises them as they rest on the forest floor as they wait for adult deer to return from foraging.
Although wolves are at the top of the food chain and don’t need camouflage from predators, concealing coloration can help when stalking prey. Unlike Arctic wolves, a subspecies that have fur that blends into snow as well as rocky tundra, grey wolves tend to be earth-coloured. Areas of black on their coats, called disruptive coloration, make it hard to tell the outlines of the wolf from far away.
Its name notwithstanding, the American toad is common across eastern parts of Canada. Unlike frogs, toads spend much of their life on land, though they do need freshwater during their early development and to breed. Their mature colouring, though, reflects their ability to live in forests and grasslands.


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I don’t really know what I want to achieve from this post but I guess I kind of just want to voice my thoughts and what more of a therapeutic outlet than my own blog? A lot of you wanted more personal posts on here so I guess this one’s pretty personal.
Let’s start by going back three years – my Grandad had passed away and I wasn’t close to my Grandma Betty at all. To be honest, as I’ve grown up I had fraught times with my Grandma and most of the time my Grandad had to bare the brunt of it. I’d go months without seeing them because I was so stubborn to say how I felt or apologise. I know this upset my Grandad and my Dad often told me it upset him too.
What I will say about Betty is that she was a strong woman, she brought up 5 boys and ran the house and still held down a job whilst my Grandad worked in the Police. She’d never had a girl and as her eldest Grandaughter (and the only one in the UK), I was often misunderstood which caused friction between us. Or maybe it was that she didn’t really know how to deal with me, especially as I got older.
My Grandad had been poorly for quite some time and as he got worse, I couldn’t bare it. I distanced myself completely from the situation and I refused to go see him. I couldn’t face seeing my lovely Grandad deteriorating in front of me. It wasn’t until a few days before he passed away that I got the kick up the backside that I needed. He was asking for me and I couldn’t say no, I just had to bite the bullet and say goodbye. I was apprehensive about going, mainly because I knew my Grandma and my Dad were disappointed in me and I didn’t want the conflict. My worries soon went as I sat holding my Grandad’s hand, him telling me how much he loved me and me crying that I felt Betty stroking my hair and I knew it was going to be okay.
I swore to myself that I’d look after her and I’d let bygones be bygones. It was crazy how quickly our relationship changed, I even looked forward to visiting her each week. She’d tell me all sorts of stories and soon she became my confidant. I’d tell her things I’d never tell my Mum and it was easy, she never judged me even though we were from two completely different eras. She’d give me amazing advice and I knew she realised I was far more screwed up than I’d ever let on. She even let me borrow the money for my blogging camera because she wanted me to better myself. She even knew what Twitter was!
I knew her health was deteriorating, she had an enlarged heart and her arthritis was worsening but I kind of kept it to the back of my mind. I went away in November to Australia and I made her promise not to die whilst I was away. To say I had anxiety over such a long trip was an understatement, I couldn’t get excited for the longest time. She promised me she wouldn’t, gave me some ice cream money and said she’d see me when I got back. I got back and phoned her, she sounded awful but she wanted to know all about my holiday so I told her I’d tell her all about it the following week when she was feeling better. Except I never did because she had a huge stroke two days before my birthday and she lost her ability to speak. She was pretty out of it for the 5 weeks leading up to her passing away but I made sure I visited her as much as I could and just talked to her, stroked her hair as she did mine and I told her how much she meant to me and how happy I was that we got a second chance.
I’m literally sobbing as I type this, because I struggle every day knowing that my best friend has gone. I knew it would happen eventually but it was such a shock and I feel robbed. Then I feel awful because I let my Grandad down in a way. I guess I was younger then and I didn’t feel like I could step up and do the right thing.
What’s really kept me going is my friends, honestly without them I’d be completely lost. Meeting up for dinner or having a night out has really helped keep me distracted. I’m definitely feeling the love at the moment.
Distraction is so important, I know it sounds silly but it’s so healthy to just find something that makes you laugh or look forward to.
I’m contemplating having some counselling too, I’ve been teetering with the idea for months, even before my Grandma got sick. I guess sometimes you need to speak to someone about your feelings and try break that negative cycle.
The only other way you heal is through time, lots of it. I know I’m not going to feel better overnight but I know in time I’ll feel better, after all knowing that Betty and Mark are together again is the best healer.
Now, I’m 99.9% sure this post makes absolutely no sense but sometimes you just need that cathartic moment.
What are your experiences dealing with loss/grief?

domain: literature


The full height turnstile can easily be extended with a roof structure. This applies to both the Titan turnstile with straight arms and the Triumph turnstile with curved arms. This roof extension can easily be fitted: the standard cover (top cover) has to be removed from the turnstile so that this roof extension can then be placed on the top cover. The roof thus replaces the standard top cover. This makes it easy to create a shelter above the turnstile. The roof dimensions are 1400 mm x 1350 mm.
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Or perhaps roses...
Incidentally the management later sent out a memo which included "don't pick the flowers." I wonder if the daughter read it.
As you can see above, this is a huge bed of peonies.
These beauties below, were near another neighbor's apartment, and they are another kind of rhododendron.
For there are no new ideas. There are only new ways of making them felt — of examining what those ideas feel like being lived on Sunday morning at 7 A.M., after brunch, during wild love, making war, giving birth, mourning our dead — while we suffer the old longings, battle the old warnings and fears of being silent and impotent and alone, while we taste new possibilities and strengths.


Senator Simon Birmingham today welcomed the Senate’s decision to refer the dire situation facing the Murray-Darling, particularly the Lower Lakes and Coorong, to an urgent committee inquiry.
The inquiry by the Senate Standing Committee on Rural and Regional Affairs and Transport will report by 30 September, giving it a shorter than usual time of five weeks.
“I was very pleased to co-sponsor this motion with Greens Senators, Senator Xenophon and my fellow South Australian Liberal Senator Fisher,” Senator Birmingham said today.
“I particularly hope the shorter than usual reporting timeframe will ensure that action is taken quickly, based on the inquiry’s findings.
“I also welcome the support of the Greens and other cross-bench Senators for the motion moved by South Australian Liberal Senators that the ‘urgent advice’ Minister Wong asked her department for on 18 June be tabled in the Senate by noon tomorrow.
“Both of these motions have effectively come about because of the Government’s failure to act, and its continuing failure to take Australians into its confidence on this critical issue.
“Disappointingly, the Government opposed our motion to table its ‘urgent advice’, but we sincerely hope the Government reconsiders its position, or at the very least abides by the Senate’s wishes. This advice might allow the Senate committee to ‘fast track’ its deliberations and for action to be taken sooner.
“For too long, the lower reaches of the River Murray, particularly the Lower Lakes and Coorong, have been in desperate need of increased flows.
“We acknowledge the impact of the prolonged drought.
“However, we would not be facing the current predicament were it not for the chronic mismanagement and over-allocation which the Rudd Government has failed to satisfactorily address despite the Howard Government initiating moves to do so last January.
“Ideally we won’t have to wait for a committee report the Rudd Government will take immediate action to save the Lower Lakes well before 30 September.
“However, if the Rudd Government continues to fail us, then hopefully this Committee will deliver the alternatives South Australians desperately seek.”


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Three pairs of ballet slippers and stockings, each dyed different shades of brown, sit in a glass case in a corner of the Reginald F. Lewis Museum’s special exhibitions gallery. The slippers belong to the world-renowned Dance Theatre of Harlem, and were dyed under the direction of co-founder Arthur Mitchell, who recognized the injustice of the uniformly pale color in ballet costuming.
"He was very sensitive to how a skin of color would look in a pink ballet slipper or white ballet slipper—he didn't want to break the [visual] line," says Dr. Skipp Sanders, the museum's executive director. "So he went so far to have three different tones of slippers for different complexions, even using makeup."
Sanders continues to marvel at the company's contributions to the arts as he walks through the exhibition, titled "Dance Theatre of Harlem: Forty Years of Firsts," on view through Aug. 30. The gallery is filled with bold, exquisite costumes, set pieces, posters, and photographs from the company's international performances, as well as an interactive area with a dance-studio mirror, barre, and ballet pose guidelines. The exhibition runs in conjunction with special programming, including a flash mob at Artscape, a talk with American Ballet Theatre soloist Misty Copeland on Aug. 1, and a Dance Theatre of Harlem performance at Murphy Fine Arts Center at Morgan State University this Saturday, June 20.
Sanders notes the ways in which Mitchell introduced multicultural elements into the European art of ballet, juxtaposing traditional choreography with rhythm and blues and Afro-Caribbean music and using African- and African-American-inspired costume design.
"There was an idea that African-Americans weren't physically built to look good for ballet," he says. Mitchell's direction and founding of the Dance Theatre altered the public's perception of ballet as an exclusively white, European art.
Mitchell, who became the first African-American male to perform as a permanent member of a major ballet company in 1955 when he joined the New York City Ballet, founded the Dance Theatre of Harlem with his mentor Karel Shook in the wake of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Inspired to provide children with opportunities for self-expression, Mitchell started teaching dance classes in a church basement, and soon after moved the school and company to a renovated garage. The school grew to include a variety of courses in the performing arts and art theory and featured many renowned figures in the arts as teachers and collaborators, such as actor Gregory Hines and choreographer Glen Tetley. The legendary choreographer George Balanchine, who served as Mitchell's mentor at the New York City Ballet, allowed several of his ballets to enter the Dance Theatre of Harlem repertoire and served on the company's founding board of directors.
The exhibition highlights four major ballets from the company's repertoire: "A Streetcar Named Desire," "Creole Giselle," "Firebird," and "Dougla," with costumes, photographs, and set pieces from each, as well as a video monitor looping archived footage from major performances. The four ballets represent the Dance Theatre of Harlem as it is known internationally and historically: a racially and ethnically diverse company with a multicultural repertoire, infusing classical ballet with the arts of African diaspora—a monumentally important player in the expanding inclusivity of the arts. But according to one of the company's earliest members and current ballet master, Keith Saunders, there is still significant work to be done in the global ballet world.
"I don't want to discount the progress that has been made," Saunders says over the phone while packing for a two-week overseas tour immediately preceding the Dance Theatre of Harlem's performance in Baltimore. "But honestly, if you look at ballet companies around the country, the progress is limited. You'll still see the same thing you saw maybe 10, 20, 30 years ago. If you look at ballet companies across this country, there's maybe one dancer of color, maybe two dancers of color on any company's roster."
Saunders indicates that one of the greatest barriers for performers of color exists between the training level and professional companies.
"The training grounds [for ballet] have become more diverse, but they have to continue to proactively embrace that diversity and find ways to support that diversity and that ongoing idea of carrying it through to the highest professional level," says Saunders. "They need to continue to make improvements and continue to make ballet companies all across the country look like what American really is."
Saunders, who performed as a principal dancer for the Dance Theatre of Harlem for more than 17 years before becoming ballet master in 1996, grew up in Baltimore near Liberty Heights and Hilton without any formal introduction to dance until he began taking classes as a student at Harvard. He soon left school to pursue a career in dance, taking as many classes as possible while working as a clerk in Boston, and apprenticed with the dance company at the National Center for Afro-American Artists at the Elma Lewis School of Fine Arts in Roxbury. In 1975, he saw the then-6-year-old Dance Theatre of Harlem perform at Connecticut College, and took a trip to New York later in the year to give an impromptu audition at the company's base. He was hired as an apprentice, and thereafter continued to perform in many of the company's major ballets.
In 2004, the company suffered severe financial difficulties and was forced to cease performances until returning to the stage in 2012.
"The Dance Theatre of Harlem of the 21st century is markedly different than the company that our artistic director Virginia Johnson and I and many others danced in all those many years under Arthur Mitchell's directorship," says Saunders. "It's a much leaner company."
At the Dance Theatre's peak, around the mid-'80s, the company featured more than 50 dancers. By the time the company was forced to close in 2004, the roster had shrunk to 44 dancers. The company returned with only 18 dancers in 2012.
"Our company used to tour with two or three trucks as we traveled around the country, carrying the scenery and equipment for huge ballets like 'Giselle,' and one of our signature ballets 'Firebird.' Our present company just doesn't have the numbers to do those works."
On June 20, the company will perform three smaller ballets from the company's repertoire: "Vessels," choreographed by Darrell Grand Moultrie for the company's dancers last fall to a score by Ezio Bosso; "Dancing on the Front Porch of Heaven (Odes to Love and Loss)," originally choreographed for the Royal Swedish Ballet in 1993 by Ulysses Dove to music by Arvo Pärt; and resident choreographer Robert Garland's signature work "Return," performed to songs by James Brown and Aretha Franklin. Together, the ballets represent a new generation of the company, marked not merely by a smaller scale, but also a renewed sense of perseverance and opportunity.
"It's still, very frankly, quite a struggle for the arts in this country to deliver the services and products that we do," says Saunders. "It's a battle that we continue to fight."


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About Ed Teja
Ed Teja is a writer a poet, a musician and a traveler. He follows Paul Bowles' definition of a traveler: "a person who moves slowly over the face of the planet, belonging no more to one place than the next." His stories and poems are about the places he knows, places that lie in the margins of the world, and the amazing people he meets between the cracks.


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Kabuki Jazz Cabaret blends dramatic performance with Chinese and Sri Lankan ghost legends, thundering Taiko, cascading contemporary Koto and haunting jazz. Veterans of the avante-garde theater and music scene, writer/actor Brenda Wong Aoki and her long time creative partner Emmy-award winning composer Mark Izu, bring together the best of the best: Grammy nominated multi-percussionist Dr. Anthony Brown, natori Koto master Shoko Hikage, 2010 Best Latin Jazz flutist Mas Koga, vocalist Moy Eng, and Taiko duo Janet Koike with National Heritage Fellow PJ Hirabayashi.
The all new program features: The Soul of the Great Bell, a traditional Chinese legend of a mighty emperor and the ghost of a young girl imprisoned in a temple bell; and The Night of the Demon Dancers, by writer/performer Nayomi Munaweera; a miracle story about her father paralyzed as a small boy in Sri Lanka.
Kabuki Jazz Cabaret was conceived and created by Aoki and Izu, who have developed a symbiotic blend of east and west, spoken word and music. Mark Izu studied and performed Gagaku (Japanese Imperial music) for over twenty years with master Togi Suenobu. Writer/performer Brenda Wong Aoki is a student of Noh and Kyogen and a three-time NEA Theater Fellow. She is one of the premiere storytellers in America and an award-winning playwright recognized for her multidisciplinary works combining contemporary monodrama with traditional arts. ( www.aokizu.com )
Official Website: http://www.rhythmix.org
Added by cmargaritafranco on October 19, 2011

domain: entertainment


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Getting snared by the past in a city that’s trying to forget it.
By Alexei Dmitriev | On the pool terrace of Beirut’s Phoenicia hotel, where well-heeled local families are beginning to trickle in for a sundown movie screening, I am trying—with mixed results—to lounge about. It’s hard to know whether the Emirati tourists, Saudi aristocrats, and European business travelers staying here are finding it any easier to relax. Tonight’s film selection, a Laurel & Hardy feature, has the locals giddy with anticipation. Slapstick comedy goes a long way in politically fragile Lebanon. But the duo’s antics don’t put me at ease.
I’m not the only visitor feeling apprehensive. As I wait for a cab at the hotel entrance, I witness the arrival of a dignitary attended by such a dense enclosure of ferocious-looking bodyguards that just attempting to see his face would end badly for me. Security is taken very seriously in Beirut. Before cars are even searched at the Phoenicia compound’s entrance, they are first scanned for explosives at a safe distance with a sensing device. In 2005, about 400 yards from where I am standing, two tons of TNT ended the life of prime minister Rafic Hariri along with 21 others in his motorcade. Glass would have rained down heavily from all nine floors of the newly re-opened Phoenicia.
Drawing on its reputation for French-flavored cosmopolitanism and liberal attitudes uncommon in the Middle East, Beirut is making a comeback as a playground destination. You can drown in cocktails, or float in tides of low-cut dresses. For the moment Hezbollah, whose popularity in Lebanon keeps growing, is looking the other way. On Rue Weygand in the rebuilt Beirut Central District, luxury-brand boutiques are packed with shoppers and outdoor restaurants have waiting lists. Perfectly restored streets are full of perfect people—the Lebanese swear by cosmetic surgery, and banks offer loans to cover the surgeon’s bills.
Since traffic is bad and explosions are still a part of life, you can also order in: anything from tanning service to McDonald’s home delivery—the only place in the world where it is possible, I am told. I am reminded that I am in a Muslim country when the call for Isha prayer sounds out over my early drink in the retro Dragonfly bar in the hip Gemmayzeh quarter. Five minutes later I hear church bells—a reminder that Lebanon remains a multi-confessional place. Stopping by the St. George Maronite Cathedral during a service in Arabic, I realize that the Christian God is called Allah here. The Al-Amin mosque is fewer than 50 yards away. An Armenian church is another 300. People of different creeds and ethnicities have been living here together for many, many years.
The Lebanese have mastered a rhythm that blends Eastern languor with intense Western socializing. One quickly gets used to encountering seemingly unconnected people who turn out to know each other. There is a charming propensity to show off—making cigars the second most popular status symbol after silicone. There is a perceptible interest among the young in what’s happening in the rest of the world and touchy nostalgia for the French among the old. Beirut is eager to see and be seen.
Yet efforts to promote it as “the Switzerland of the Middle East” gloss over an edge that Switzerland is very happy to do without.
Across the street from the rebuilt Phoenicia is the storied St. Georges Hotel. In its 1960s heyday it hosted stars like Brigitte Bardot and Marcello Mastroianni, but it was never restored to the grandeur that was destroyed by Lebanon’s 1975-90 civil war. In a stroke of irony, the war-torn St. Georges—whose façade was further ruined by the explosion that assassinated Rafic Hariri—now doubles as an emblem of peacetime discontents. The hotel’s owner has plastered it with a giant banner reading “Stop SOLIDERE,” protesting Hariri’s surviving private company, the driving force behind the postwar rebuilding—and controversial rebranding—of the Beirut Central District. SOLIDERE appropriated the St. Georges’ waterfront to build a modern marina filled with glitzy mega-yachts, thereby destroying the hotel’s iconic beach.
There was actually a six-month period during the beginning of the civil war, in 1975-76, known as the Battle of the Hotels. Different factions of Christian militia and the PLO/Mirabitoun alliance clashed at the Phoenicia, St. Georges, and a nearby Holiday Inn. The latter emerged as a favorite snipers’ nest on account of its 26 floors, and it switched hands more than once.
“The rotating rooftop restaurant was considered very high-end, and my dad took my mom there on a date,” a security guard tells me with a chuckle, before putting a damper on my notion of ascending to an ocean-view suite. “It took him a shitload of ammo to make it to the top the next time he wanted to get on the roof.”
So the swanky Phoenicia, along with a spate of new condos in this posh area of the city, is overhung by the Holiday Inn’s dark, bullet-riddled hulk standing like a giant memorial to the 150,000 casualties of the civil war.
In the eyes of many visitors—and I am no exception—Beirut’s image is inseparable from its tragic past. The local mindset seems to oscillate between an official historic amnesia and a Mediterranean machismo that almost turns boastful about the Lebanese perseverance in the face of adversity. Stoicism and bravado. On the main highway leading north to Tripoli, where street fighting between the Lebanese Army and Jabhat-al Nusra, an offspring of ISIS, would erupt a few months after my stay, I gaped at a billboard depicting a model sitting astride a tank cannon, provocatively smiling to motorists. In Gemmayzeh, an old neighborhood suggesting a smaller and warmer Greenwich Village, the Plan BEY gallery was offering collages of photos and other renderings of the civil war.
The new generation sees the war as an aesthetic phenomenon and makes it a subject of art installations and performances. Until recently avant-garde rave parties were thrown in the half-ruined spherical cinema known as “the egg.” While I was there, the “in” place for late-night entertainment was on the rails of the abandoned Mar Mikhael train depot. Past tragedies and proximity to present danger—the war in Syria may spill over at any time—have made the Lebanese experts in living in the moment. Partying with abandon is both a matter of national pride and a selling point for the National Tourism Organization.
“Here we are,” says the cab driver, stopping in a parking lot with no structure in sight.
“Where is the club?” I ask, suspecting trickery on his part. It’s four in the morning and we are in the Karantina neighborhood near the port, where in the old days sailors from arriving ships were kept in quarantine. In living memory, this was the location of a Palestinian-Kurdish refugee camp where hundreds were slain in a 1976 raid by Phalangists.
“Just take the stairs down,” he answers, pointing to what look like big metal plates in the middle of the lot, “and enjoy.”
A pair of bouncers confirm that I have indeed arrived at B-018, one of the top night clubs in the Middle East.
The idea to put a night club in Karantina belongs to Naji Gebran, who during the war opened his house to strangers to let them forget the awful reality outside by listening to music. Gebran’s cousin, the architect Bernard Khoury, modeled this club after a bomb shelter, or perhaps a burial chamber. He calls it “a reaction to difficult and explosive conditions that are inherent to the history of its location—and the contradictions that are implied by the implementation of an entertainment program on such a site.”
The entertainment is thriving. Seeing its own reflection in the mirrored ceiling, the dancing crowd was flirting with the verge of ecstasy. And when it seemed that the sweaty revelers were about to collapse from exhaustion and lack of oxygen, hydraulic machinery retracted the roof, reviving the underground hedonists’ energy with a blast of springtime night air and views of a stellar sky.
It is hard not to wonder what made the hospitable and life-loving Lebanese massacre their neighbors with such ferocity, transforming Beirut into a scene of one of the bloodiest conflicts of the 20th century. Contrary to the prevailing opinion, it was not a clash just between the Maronite Christians and Muslims. Groups within the same faith often slaughtered each other brutally. “It was a perfidious war,” a former field commander named Ellie tells me. “When it was over there was not a group that had not betrayed its friends by allying with enemies.”
Erasing that memory must have been Rafic Hariri’s goal when, in 1994, he began transforming the downtown ruins into the new Beirut Central District. As an urban reconstruction project encompassing a whopping 472 acres, the accomplishments of SOLIDERE certainly merit praise. But there is a sterility to the spotless green streets, lined with replicas of 1920s ochre sandstone buildings. Apartments in them are beyond the means of the butchers, carpenters, and small traders who once created the atmosphere that made Old Beirut such a special place. In place of the old souk’s hubbub came the quiet luxury of the new souk that replaced it in 2009, targeting the fat wallets of Saudis and the Emiratis with luxury brands, and turning the erstwhile “Paris of the Middle East” into a “Dubai of the Levant.”
After a 10-minute walk from the Central District up Beshara Al Khoury street—the infamous former Green Line that divided Muslim West Beirut from Christian East Beirut, along which the fiercest fighting occurred—I enter the area beyond SOLIDERE’s jurisdiction. Here, buildings still show bullet and shell scars. In some of them, the lower floors have been hastily fixed and occupied, while the bombed-out and burned-out top ones have been long inhabited by wind and sorrow. I climb a stairwell with missing walls and walk through gaping holes from one apartment into the next, maneuvering past household belongings picked over by looters long ago.
Here, far from the Phoenicia, there is no escape from the realization that peace accords alone are powerless to heal a civil war’s scars. When Lebanon’s war ended in 1990 and amnesty was declared, the former adversaries did not have the luxury of retreating to separate territories. They continued to live side by side. Every day they risk running into kidnappers of their children at a supermarket, or into their parents’ killers at the gas pump. And even for an outsider, that reality has a grim endurance that overpowers the shiny new city life that has sprung up to distract the mind.
Alexei Dmitriev G’88 is a documentary filmmaker in Potomac, Maryland.


Japan’s former prime minister and vice president of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party has been accused of sexism after making insulting comments about his foreign minister and his age.
“She’s not that good-looking,” Taro Aso, a longtime critic of inappropriate remarks, said of Kamikawa Yoko in a recent speech, before embarrassingly praising her abilities as a politician. “But she speaks with dignity, speaks very good English, and meets the people she needs to meet on her own without the help of diplomats.”
Taro Aso, 83, also called Kamikawa, 70, Obasan – A common term for middle-aged women that some consider derogatory.
Aso also twice misspelled her last name — calling her Uemura — and falsely suggested she was Japan’s first female foreign minister. In fact, she is the third female foreign minister after Makiko Tanaka and Junko Kawaguchi, who were appointed during the administration of Junichiro Koizumi. 2000.
Kamikawa, who became one of five women appointed to Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s cabinet last September, dismissed Aso’s comments.
“I know there are many different opinions and I appreciate all the feedback,” she told producers, adding that continuing to serve as Japan’s top diplomat was the most appropriate response to Aso.
Opposition politicians criticized Aso, who has since held a senior position in the Liberal Democratic Party government. serve as prime minister less than a year before the party vote out In 2009, it was the first time in more than half a century.
Akira Koike, secretary-general of the Japanese Communist Party, said the comments were offensive even by Aso’s low standards. “This is the worst,” Koike told the publisher, according to the Asahi Shimbun. Some social media users called for Aso to resign.
Kaku Sechiyama, a professor of gender studies at the University of Tokyo, told the Asahi Shimbun: “I understand [Aso] Kamikawa admires him, but if he is a male foreign minister, he will not mention his appearance. Only women make additional assessments of their own attractiveness.
Taro Aso, a rumored billionaire, is known for his fashion sense and ill-informed views on entire groups of people. In May 2018, when he was finance minister, he stated that “there is no crime of sexual harassment.” After a senior official was accused of sexually harassing a female television reporter, Aso also speculated that the official was “framed” by the victim.
During World War II, the Aso family’s coal mining business was used allied prisoners of war Aso served as president of the company’s successor, Aso Cement Co., for much of the 1970s but has refused to apologize for its past use of forced labor.
Japan Underperforms in international comparisons female political representativesRanked 165 out of 190 countries, women make up only 10.3% of members of the House of Commons, according to statistics inter-parliamentary union.
Aso is not the only senior Japanese politician to make sexist remarks. After appointing Kamikawa and her female colleagues to the cabinet last year, Kishida told them that he hoped they would “show the sensitivity and empathy unique to women.”


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Do you have leftover unused disposable nappies lying around?
Drop them off at your nearest designated collection points (including our office at 150 Burwood Rd, Hawthorn) whilst the collective is on.
The Collective collect your leftover unused disposable nappies and redistribute them to organisations that support families in crisis or in need.
Collections run for two weeks in MAY & October.
At the end of the two week collective the nappies are sorted, packed and swiftly distributed to organisations that support families in crisis or in need.
Nappies are a basic healthcare need and lack of sufficient nappies can lead to an array of problems for disadvantaged families. So when you donate your spare nappies, you help these families to focus more of their time and energy on getting their lives back on track.
1,759,851 nappies have so far been collected!
For more information - http://thenappycollective.com/

domain: sociology


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Seattle: A new unit aimed at solving cold cases of missing and murdered Indigenous people will be established in Washington state, a result of the latest law to address a decades-long crisis.
House Bill 1177 was recommended by a state task force, passed unanimously in the Legislature and was signed last week by Gov. Jay Inslee.
The unit will operate within the state Attorney General’s Office and will assist federal, local and tribal law enforcement agencies in investigating unsolved cases involving Indigenous people, who are disproportionately targeted by violence. The unit will prioritize help for jurisdictions with limited resources, The Seattle Times reported.
“Victims are not alone. The cries of their loved ones are no longer unheard,” said bill sponsor Rep. Debra Lekanoff, D-Bow, who was born in Alaska and is part Tlingit and part Aleut.
The unit will have investigators and a person to maintain communication with the families of victims and serve as a go-between for families and law enforcement.
The state’s Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women & People Task Force, created to assess systemic causes behind the high rate of disappearances and murders of indigenous women and people, recommended the legislation.


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Ric Flair and the WWE made pro wrestling history 18 years ago today. On September 9, 1991 Ric Flair debuted on WWE Prime Time Wrestling with the WCW title. Flair did the unthinkable, leaving WCW without dropping the title and bringing it to the rival. Now you know why Vince McMahon was so afraid of Bret Hart jumping to WCW with the belt?
This was truly a top ten moment in the history of pro wrestling. I remember thinking at the time that it was the greatest thing I had ever seen as a wrestling fan. For years, the Dream Match between Hulk Hogan and Ric Flair had been talked about. Finally, it would happen. On top of that, Flair never dropped the WCW belt and brought it with him. It didn’t get any better for a wrestling fan in 1990.
There was never and probably never will be another moment like this in my lifetime. For one, there is no WWE competition at the level of a Ric Flair in 1990 to steal. Secondly, there are so many legal ramifications in this generation that nobody is going to risk such an act. This was truly one of the last outlaw moments in pro wrestling.
Not everyone was excited about this moment. I talked to several WCW wrestlers at the time who were very angry. Tom Zenk who wrestled as the Z Man in WCW at the time was one of those wrestlers. A lot of the WCW wrestlers took it as a personal slap in the face by Ric Flair. Even one of Flair’s best friends, Barry Windham recently told me that he still hasn’t completely forgiven Flair for what he did in 1990 with the WCW belt. As a WCW wrestler, it didn’t get any more personal than this. Scott Steiner is another WCW wrestler at the time who continues to express bitterness over Flair’s jump.
The story has been told several times by Ric Flair. Flair’s side of the story is that he and WCW executive Jim Herd were constantly at odds. Both were in the middle of a contract negotiation. Herd demanded that Flair drop the belt to Barry Windham. Flair hung up on him and refused. Flair called Vince McMahon, made a deal, and took the belt with him.
It was expected that Flair and Hogan would break records. For whatever reason, Flair was a flop in New York. Former WWE office employee J.J. Dillon has written in his book about the fact that the match didn’t draw and bombed at the box office. In an unheard of move at the time, the WWE canceled their planned WrestleMania main-event of Hogan and Flair a few weeks before the show because of this. The buzz was there, but WWE fans weren’t buying the Nature Boy’s act.
Flair would leave the WWE only a few years after joining the company. Flair returned to WCW amidst controversy. In retrospect, it is quite shocking that Flair was allowed to come back to the company. Flair refused to drop the belt and brought it to the competition with intentions of putting WCW out of business. This wasn’t business for Flair, it was personal. Eric Bischoff was one of the few guys to recognize this and gets a lot of heat today for disrespecting Flair. In hindsight, did Flair deserve anything less?
It is funny to me in looking back on this story. Flair has done a lot of interviews criticizing guys like Hulk Hogan, Dusty Rhodes, and Bruno Sammartino. Flair is first to point out a guy like Lex Luger or Bret Hart for disrespecting the business he professes to love so much. At the same time, none of these guys ever performed such an egregious act in the business as Ric Flair.
Vince McMahon is another one who has dirty hands in this mess. The whole idea behind the screwing of Bret Hart was to prevent him from leaving as champion and taking the belt to WCW. Unlike Flair, Hart had too much class to do something like that. I truly believe him when he says he wouldn’t do it. Someone growing up in a wrestling family at that time in the business would never dream of such a thing. People wonder where Vince McMahon even got the idea of a screw job. It is easy, Vince was scared of retribution!
Happy Anniversary Ric Flair!


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Inter Miami CF star Lionel Messi has made history by winning the Ballon d’Or for an unprecedented eighth time. The Argentinean footballer beat out competition from Manchester City striker Erling Haaland after leading his national team to victory in the World Cup last year.
Messi, who is 36 years old, becomes the first player based in Major League Soccer (MLS) to claim this prestigious prize. However, it’s important to note that his success in Qatar played a significant role in securing this achievement. David Beckham, former Manchester United player and co-owner of Inter Miami, presented Messi with the award in Paris.
Haaland, who scored an impressive 52 goals last season as Manchester City secured a Treble in the 2022-23 campaign, came in second place in the voting and received the Gerd Muller Trophy for the best striker of the year.
“I couldn’t have imagined the incredible career I’ve had and everything that I’ve achieved,” said Messi in his acceptance speech. “I feel fortunate to have played for the best team in the world, the best team in history. Winning these individual trophies is truly special.”
“To win the Copa America and then the World Cup is an amazing feat. Each Ballon d’Or award holds a special place in my heart for different reasons,” he added.
Prior to Messi receiving his award, Aitana Bonmatí, a midfielder for Barcelona and Spain, received the Ballon d’Or Féminin after an extraordinary year with both her club and country. Bonmatí played a crucial role in Barcelona’s success in Liga F and the Champions League, and she also led Spain to victory in the World Cup.
Other awards presented at the event included the Yashin Trophy for best goalkeeper, which was won by Messi’s Argentina teammate Emiliano Martinez, and the Kopa Trophy for the world’s top player under the age of 21, which was awarded to England and Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham.
In his speech, Messi took a moment to wish his compatriot Diego Maradona a happy birthday. Maradona, a legendary figure in football who won the World Cup in 1986, passed away on Nov. 22, 2020, and would have turned 63 on the day of the ceremony.
“I would like to dedicate my last words to Diego Maradona. Today is his birthday, so I want to remember him in the presence of the best players, coaches, and football enthusiasts, just like he was,” Messi said emotionally.
“Wherever you are, Diego, happy birthday. This is for you too.”
Even before the ceremony in Paris, Messi already held the record for the most Ballon d’Or wins. He previously won the award in 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019, and 2021.
Cristiano Ronaldo has won the Ballon d’Or five times, while Michel Platini, Johan Cruyff, and Marco van Basten have all won it three times.
Last season, Messi scored 21 goals in 41 appearances as Paris Saint-Germain secured their Ligue 1 title before his move to Inter Miami earlier this year.
Since joining the MLS, Messi has scored 11 goals in 14 games for Miami, contributing to the club’s first-ever piece of silverware, the Leagues Cup. However, his injury towards the end of the regular MLS season impacted Miami’s chances of making it to the playoffs.
It is Messi’s remarkable performance in the 2022 World Cup that earned him his record-breaking eighth Ballon d’Or. Argentina ended their 36-year wait for a World Cup win, and Messi, as the team’s captain, played a pivotal role. He scored seven goals and provided three assists, earning the Player of the Tournament title.
In an epic final against France, Messi scored twice and also converted a penalty in the shootout, leading Lionel Scaloni’s side to victory in one of the most memorable matches in World Cup history.
Having come close to winning the World Cup on four previous occasions, including a runner-up finish in 2014, many believed it was Messi’s last chance to lift the coveted trophy.
At the age of 36 years and four months, Messi is now the second oldest player to win the Ballon d’Or, surpassing last year’s winner Karim Benzema. Only Stanley Matthews, the inaugural recipient of the award in 1956, was older when he won it at 41.
Messi’s first six Ballons d’Or were earned during his time with Barcelona, where he is the club’s all-time top scorer and appearance holder. He won his seventh Ballon d’Or shortly after joining Paris Saint-Germain in 2021 following Argentina’s triumph in the Copa America.
Olivia Wilson is a trendsetter in the world of digital culture. With an eagle eye for emerging trends and viral phenomena, she keeps readers up-to-date with the latest online sensations, memes, and pop culture trends. Olivia’s passion for staying ahead of the curve is infectious.

domain: sports


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Customize your Jeep Wrangler JK with our star-style tubular doors will increase visibility and easy access. Enjoy open-air driving in your Jeep Wrangler JK with the beast tubular doors. These heavy-duty steel doors feature a 100% bolt-on application. The durable black powder coating is highly corrosion-resistant, for a long-lasting and attractive design. Each door includes all necessary hardware. The front doors accept OEM-style mirrors to keep your Jeep street legal.
- Star Style Design: Enhance your line of sight when navigating tricky obstacles and let you enjoy the exhilaration of speed via the wind rushing through your interior when opening up your ride.
- Steel Construction: Steel tubular doors are made of durable steel sheets and tubing. The sturdy design and the powder coating are thick and durable. Anti-corrosion, against collision force.
- Side View Mirrors Included: Military-grade side view mirrors can be manually adjustable, and give you an excellent view to the rear while looking suitably rough.
- Easy Installation: No Drilling Required. Engineered to fit OE hinges with a factory-style door lock assembly. Easy to put on and take off. Please always wear your seat belts, and avoid sharp turns and other abrupt maneuvers.
- Full Function: Increase the space of your Jeep, expand the whole field of vision, and bring different, fun-filled experiences when you off-road.
- Classic Star Style Tube Doors: Perfectly fit your 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK 2 Door or 4 Door models.
- Made of durable 1/8" steel sheet and 1 1/4" x .080 wall steel tubing. Textured black powder coat finish. Built-in OE quality latch assembly.
- Side View Mirrors: Military-grade side view mirrors can be manually adjustable, and provide maximum off-road visibility.
- Easy Installation: Mounts to OE door hinge. No modification is needed.
- Warning: Designed for 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK 2 Door or 4 Door. Please choose the correct variant. Always wear your seat belts, and avoid sharp turns and other abrupt maneuvers.
- 2 Door / 4 Door 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK JKU (Please check the variant before ordering)
Note: It would take 20 days for delivery after being shipped out. Hurry limited quantity with affordable price.
- 2 Door / 4 Door Steel Tubular Door Fit For 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK JKU
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domain: design


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Trident, Cochin is a deluxe 5-star hotel offering comfortable accommodation on Willingdon Island, near the heart of Cochin. It boasts multiple restaurants, a large outdoor swimming pool, landscaped gardens, fitness centre and specialist Ayurveda Centre.
Willingdon Island is a large man-made island made from sand dredged from the backwaters to deepen the Kochi Port. Named after Long Willingdon, the then reigning Viceroy of India, it houses the Kochi Port, Southern Naval Command Headquarters of Indian Navy and many luxury hotels. Regional places of interest include Ernakulam Mainland City, Thrikakara Town and Vypin Island.
The hotel is housed in a modern low-rise building built around a picturesque central courtyard.
## Leisure Facilities
Facilities include a large outdoor swimming pool, landscaped gardens, fitness centre and specialist Ayurveda Centre. Wi-Fi is available throughout the premises.
Superior rooms are decorated in a tasteful, modern style with natural tones, parquet flooring, light wood furniture and large windows. Amenities include air-conditioning, a flat-screen satellite TV, tea and coffee equipment, safe and an en-suite bathroom.
## Restaurant and bar
Travancore serves traditional, regional delicacies in a light and casual setting overlooking the pool. The Seafood Grill serves freshly prepared seafood poolside between November and March. Guests can also enjoy a range of drinks at the Cochin Trader Bar and a range of light snacks and drinks in The Patio. A buffet breakfast is provided every morning.
## Other Information
Free parking is possible onsite. The hotel provides 24-hour reception and room service.
Note: It is the responsibility of the hotel chain and/or the individual property to ensure the accuracy of the photos displayed. Getaroom.com is not responsible for any inaccuracies in the photos. The room rates listed are for double occupancy per room unless otherwise stated and exclude tax recovery charges and service fees.

domain: travel


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Jay Critch - "Same Team"
Dave East & Rick Ross - "Fresh Prince Of Belaire"
MYCHL - "Color Me Bad"
K. Roosevelt - "Adrenaline"
Jay Critch continues to prove why he's one of rap's most promising up and comers.
90's nostalgia vibez.
MYCHL is ready to break out on his own.
Good food and good friends.


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Millie Bobby Brown showed herself in a bathrobe
By: Linda Davis
Millie Bobby Brown has recently shared a pic on her Instagram page in which she is wearing a bathrobe.
The actress looks beautiful even without a make-up with her long brown hair that is slightly wavy! She is wearing an ordinary white bathrobe, which makes her look very natural. Millie has commented her pic like this «Must be love on the brain». It seems to be true, since there is much love in her eyes.
The star’s fans appreciate her photo. One young lady even expresses her gratitude for sending the pic. The readers are all positive and claim that Millie is the most stunning actress ever. They are also proud for her and wish her much happiness. One guy noted that the actress looks like Paige.


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Aestech introduced a new product – a lightweight wall panel for fast construction of houses
With Aestech-LP, developers can speed up and reduce the cost of building construction without sacrificing quality.
Aestech has announced the launch of a new product — Aestech-LP lightweight wall panel. This is a ready-made self-supporting enclosing structure with a color scheme and texture. The light weight of the panel allows for construction under non-standard building conditions. Thanks to this, the building can be erected in a shorter time compared to, for example, aerated concrete technologies.
Aestech-LP consists of two porcelain tiles or other sheet materials between which a visco-damping membrane absorbs noise and a material for heat and sound insulation, such as mineral wool or extruded polystyrene. The structure is assembled using GRP holding elements and Aestech adhesives. Three thicknesses are available — 100, 150 and 200 mm.
Among the advantages of the product:
- the ability to perform work in winter, unlike other similar materials;
- lightness, quick assembly, high bending strength;
- environmental friendliness and easy recycling;
- no need for wet finishing works;
- resistance to temperature changes, moisture, sunlight, and mold formation;
- a wide range of colors for different architectural conditions.
Leonid Lazebnikov, CEO von Aestech
The company's engineers have calculated that the use of lightweight Aestech-LP wall panels due to their lower weight can save up to 15% on reinforcing the floor slab. For low-supporting soils, if regulations allow, the slab cross-section can be reduced, which will reduce its weight and the load on vertical supports, thus saving on reinforcement and the cross-section of these supports.
Compared to solutions based on aerated concrete technologies, construction with lightweight wall panels is up to 20% more economical. In addition to reducing the cost of construction materials and installation services, the developer gains additional operating space by reducing the thickness of the building envelope.
Particular efficiency can be achieved by using two of the company's technologies — lightweight wall panel Aestech-LP and insulated glass unit Aestech.
Aestech is an international technology company with over 15 years of experience. It creates innovative solutions that make it possible to realize the most daring architectural ideas related to the use of glass and other building materials. Since 2022, Aestech has been part of the international technology holding TECHIIA.


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The 34-year-old conquered the 2.3 kilometre 9 per cent climb to Coot-tha’s summit in a gut-busting 6 minutes and 50 seconds, edging out close rival Ben Cook by just two seconds.
Correy and Ben were among a field of 1,500 riders who tested their limits in the timed run up the mountain as part of the 75 and 110 kilometre routes of the BDO Brisbane Coot-tha Challenge while a further 600 revelled in the flatter courses of the Great Brisbane Bike Ride.
The rides, organised by Bicycle Queensland, wrapped up Bike Week 2014 and bought to a close nine days of cycling fun, education and encouragement.
Bicycle Queensland CEO Ben Wilson said the camaraderie of the big rides day was the perfect finish to the Bike Week program.
“The purpose of Bike Week is to encourage more people to cycle more often and the response from riders new and old has been outstanding,” he said.
“From a friendly 30 kilometre spin to the 110 kilometres up Mt Coot-tha and beyond, the big rides take in some of Brisbane’s top cycling experiences and offer an entry point for those who haven’t been on a bike in a while or a challenge for the more seasoned rider.”
Mr Wilson said the Closed Streets for Kids event was a new addition to the Bike Week program and proved to be a hit with young bike riders.
“The free event gave biking youngsters control of Riverside Drive between Jane Street and the Kurilpa Bridge and it was wonderful to see the next generation of Coot-tha Challenge riders having fun on their bikes and improving their road rule knowledge and skills at the same time,” he said.
“I think the parents may have learned a thing or two as well.”
No major incidents or injuries were reported among the participants and Mr Wilson thanked Brisbane’s other road users for their patience and courtesy as the riders completed their ride.
A full list of hill climb times is available at www.coot-tha.bq.org.au/ride-info/hillclimb
Bike Week 2014 is partnered by the Queensland Government with support from BDO, Transcity Joint Venture and SCODY.

domain: hobby


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Anal Cancer > Diagnosis of Anal Cancer
Tests that examine the rectum and anus are used to detect and diagnose anal cancer. The following procedures may be used:
- Medical history and physical examination: a healthcare professional will take a history of the patient’s health habits, present symptoms, and past illnesses and treatments. In addition, an exam of the body will be performed. The doctor will check general signs of health, including signs of disease, such as lumps or anything else that seems unusual.
- Digital rectal examination (DRE): an exam of the anus and rectum. The doctor or nurse inserts a lubricated, gloved finger into the lower part of the rectum to feel for lumps or anything else that seems unusual.
Digital rectal exam (DRE). Image courtesy of the National Cancer Institute (http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/treatment/anal/Patient/page1).
- Anoscopy: an exam of the anus and lower rectum using a short, illuminated tube (an anoscope).
- Proctoscopy: an exam of the rectum using a short, illuminated tube with a camera (a proctoscope).
- Endo-anal or endorectal ultrasound: a procedure in which an ultrasound probe (transducer) is inserted into the anus or rectum. High-energy sound waves bounce off internal tissues or organs and make echoes. These echoes form images of bodily structures called a sonogram.
- Biopsy: tissues or cells are removed from the body so they can be viewed under a microscope by a pathologist to check for signs of cancer. If an abnormality is observed during an anoscopy, a biopsy may be performed at this time.
- Anal Pap: Similar to a Pap test, anal cytology, or an anal pap, looks for abnormal cells in the anal lining. This test may help find anal cancer at the earliest, most treatable stages.
Source: National Cancer Institute (http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/treatment/anal/Patient/page1)

domain: biology