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According to Dr. Hugh Milroy, a hugely influential expert on displaced veterans, there is a complete lack of fairness in the process of determining the immigration status of Commonwealth ex-service personnel.
Some of these men and women have spent over 5 years serving in the British Army and many have done operational tours.
Deeply concerning is the fact that while waiting to have their immigration status determined they do not qualify for benefits, despite dodging bullets for the flag and, shockingly, despite having paid national insurance and tax.
Many of these ex-service personnel, and their families, are actually being housed and fed by Veteran’s Aid, a charity run by Dr. Milroy.
Dr. Milroy sums this up as ‘one of the colossal national scandals of our times, when you think of the amount of foreigners who have access to benefits with relative ease within days of arriving at the country’.
Recently a family of nine Bulgarian gypsies who targeted the UK for benefits were housed in social housing within three weeks.
Despite this, the Army still actively recruits from the Commonwealth. For example, until very recently the Fijian Times online carried adverts for the British Army and Royal Marines. The British Army website has a section encouraging foreign nationals to serve. Alas this, post-service, treatment does great disservice to the fantastic institution that is the British Army, and undermines the Army’s attempts to reach out globally for talent.
The lack of a welfare support structure to help guide Foreign and Commonwealth servicemen through the settlement application process leaves many in a legal and financial limbo and causes acute distress. Milroy likens it to making them ‘disposable people’.
Some face criminal charges for serving Britain because by serving in a ‘foreign military’ – such as ours – for example, Botswana citizens who join the British Army are in breach of a Foreign Enlistment Act that leaves them open to arrest and imprisonment if deported back.
Thus they are often forced to stay without any social services in Britain because they have served for Britain. This cannot be allowed to continue. As to the related issue of forced deportations, one soldier, Fijian engineer Bale Baleiwai, whose wife is British, is being denied residence because he had a brawl with another soldier. Not an unknown event in the Army.
The UK Border Agency equated his single internal Army disciplinary matter to a criminal conviction - ignoring his skills as an engineer and the fact that he served honourably for 13 years in the British Army.
Sapper Poloko Hiri was refused citizenship because of a speeding offence that rendered him a ‘foreign criminal’ and faces imprisonment if he is deported to Botswana. (His case, like Baleiwai’s, is being appealed, but he had to apply for asylum to remain in the UK long enough to do this legally and the only organisation that helped him was Veterans Aid).
On the face of it, these cases illustrate a gross injustice. But the lack of fairness is in the process, not the
UKBA’s right to determine who should stay in Britain.
Milroy describes it as lack of proportionality – with no single organisation to blame.
If the UK Border Agency does have flexibility, it is not being exercised or supervised in any way that makes sense.
It is clearly unable, through legislative and administrative failings, to appropriately weigh good conduct against bad. The Government is responsible for this.
It is odd that there is not a Home Office delegated internal specific immigration guideline document for foreign nationals who have served for a long period of time in the British Armed forces. It would be basic common decency to apply different, lenient guidelines, for non-serious offences when determining immigration issues.
Dr. Milroy is adamant that the Government’s covenant to treat soldiers with appropriate respect commensurate to their extraordinary service to this country is turning into all but hot air. This is particularly in relation to the Commonwealth soldiers, many of whom are being supported by VeteransAid. They have been helping with such cases for nearly 5 years.
This must come to an end with appropriate amendments, and creation of exceptions, to social security access during the process of determining their grant of residence and citizenship rights.


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Queensland’s champion of contemporary arts, Metro Arts, will bolster its reputation for pushing boundaries in 2016 with an innovative and ambitious program of contemporary micro festivals, exhibitions and performance.
Unveiled last night, Metro Arts’ 2016 program entitled Risky Business – includes three multi-arts festivals, four performance seasons and nine exhibitions which explore topics ranging from death and loss to love, sexuality, politics, new music scenes and contemporary culture.
Program highlights include DeathFest – a micro festival of arts and culture celebrating life and death and approaches to understanding grief and mortality. The three-day festival will feature the world premiere of renowned performance-maker Fran Barbe’s contemporary dance work Exquisite – which explores the processes of love and loss, and has been in development with Metro Arts since 2013.
“We all want to live well, and die well, so let’s talk about that second part!” says DeathFest Curator and Metro Arts Executive Producer, Jo Thomas. “DeathFest is a chance through arts and culture to explore a range of issues including green deaths, creating a death plan, your digital legacy after death, and collective-mourning.”
Curated by sound artist Luke Jaaniste, micro-festival Sonic State will delve into Queensland’s new exploratory music scenes, and the artists behind them. Unique to Queensland, they include: noise art, installation and immersive music, contemporary classical and ambient electronica. Lawrence English, one of Australia’s key media artists will be leading ambient electronica, in his only confirmed Brisbane performance for 2016.
Exhibitions include the politically charged, feminist exhibition, Still I Rise by Hannah Brontë, a music video that imagines what Australia would look like in the future with an Indigenous, female Prime Minister who addresses the people through fierce rap.
Performance seasons include Vis & Ramin – the classic Persian tale of forbidden love, which has been revitalised with stunning multi-media for a dynamic contemporary performance experience, and is co-presented by Baran and Metro Arts.
Reinforcing its commitment to the development of contemporary arts, in 2016, Metro Arts welcomes full-year artist in residence, Courtney Coombs, a Brisbane-based artist who will use her residency to create The Unlearning Curve – an exhibition about the unlearning of prior knowledge in November 2016. Courtney uses personal vulnerability, collaboration and intimacy as engagement strategies to explore the value and position of art and human connection.
In 2016, Metro Arts will also support four performance works in residence, including One Way – a new dance-theatre work combining contemporary dance with hip hop performance, exploring work versus life balance by Brisbane’s Sammie Williams.
And if that’s not enough, Metro Arts will support the development of five new works including Fields of Decay created by Brisbane-based artist Leah Shelton and USA artist Sophia Remolde, exploring and digitally visualising the energy fields of damaged and decaying environmental sites.
Metro Arts’ CEO David Fenton said he was both excited and proud of the 2016 program. “Metro Arts remains deeply committed to the development and presentation of contemporary arts in this country,” said Mr Fenton.
“The 2016 program will feature more than 200 artists from across the country. We are delighted to be able to collaborate with and support so many artists in this ambitious and diverse program for 2016 and I’m sure audiences are going to love what they see and experience.
“The development of future contemporary arts practice is critical to ensure the sustainability of the small to medium arts sector and, in an exciting first, in 2016, we are very pleased to be able to announce that artists engaging in the artistic program will not be charged any fees for the use of our venues.”
For more information, and complete program, visit: www.metroarts.com.au for details.
Image: Exquisite – photo by Barbara Lowing

domain: artistic


by Oluwaseyi David Tosin
Most Nigerians have been following the recent happenings in the country between the head of the legislature, Senator Abubakar Bukola Saraki, and the puppet masters holding the strings of the Code of Conduct Bureau. Personally, as I watched the events unfold, I could not help but notice some unanswered questions concerning this case and since I couldn’t answer these questions myself, I decided to ask them to my fellow Nigerians:
- If it takes 12years for the CCB to investigate one governor, how many years will it take them to investigate all the governors? (Further Maths Question; make CCB the subject of the formula)
- I thought that paragraph 15, Section 2, of the 1999 Constitution only permits a Judicial Officer to act as the Chairman of the Code of Conduct Bureau , and the said chairman is expected to take a Judicial oath and not the mere oath taken by Danladi Umar and other members of the CCB? In other words, by virtue of this, can I categorically say that Hon. Umar has fraudulently ascribed to himself the position of a ‘’justice?’’ (Woollup, woollup and woollup with that?)
- With what I have heard about the self-acclaimed justice Danladi Umar having a standing trial with the EFCC and also being a chronic bribe taker, is it possible that Self-proclaimed Justice Umar is being overzealous because Senator Bukola Saraki may have refused to offer him a bribe? Hehehehehe relax, we are getting there.
- If the Executive can attack the head of the Legislative branch for simply being a ‘non-conformist’ isn’t it a clear indication that President Buhari does not really understand the democratic doctrine of ‘balance of powers?’
- Why is it that Tinubu is fighting so hard to get his candidate sitting on the seat of the Senate President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria? Isn’t it also clear that he has a predetermined agenda to turn us all into beautiful and handsome Nigerian puppets?
- We have seen that Tinubu has attacked Babatunde Fashola using his news outlets like The Nation, The Punch and Premium Times, however, he seems to have a hard-on when it comes to Saraki. Attacking him not once; not twice; but almost every day since he assumed office on the 9th of June. Abeg, make una help me ask Tinubu and his editors oh: “Na only Saraki waka come?”
- Like number 5, has anybody noticed that Uncle Tinubu has been a Big Bully of late? Why is it that when things do not go his way, he uses the media and the army of ‘beholden to Bourdillon officials’ at his disposal to fight his battle?
- Mind you, Saraki’s Senate is investigating EFCC for stealing recovered funds; EFCC is investigating the Chairman of the CCB, Danladi Umar, for corrupt practices, official impropriety and victimization of junior staff under his watch. Could it be that the EFCC is using the CCB to cut a deal with Danladi Umar?
- It is also obvious that the CCT did not grow up in Yoruba land, because they lack respect, or does Section 6 of the Constitution not state that The High Court is a superior court, while the CCT is an inferior court since it is amenable to the judicial review of a superior court because a statute/law creates it?
- In Article 24, section 2, of the Code of Conduct Bureau and Tribunal Act, we clearly see that “Prosecutions for all offences referred to in this Act shall be instituted in the name of the Federal Republic of Nigeria by the Attorney-General of the Federation or such officers in the Federal Ministry of Justice as the Attorney-General of the Federation may authorize so to do.” Given that Nigeria’s last Attorney General left office in May, when the cabinet of former President Goodluck Jonathan was dissolved, it is important for us to ask; on whose authority has the 13 count charge been instituted on? Who is the oga at the top?
- Why does the CCB have to drain its arsenal on just one man? Is Bukola Saraki the only two-time former governor to declare for an elective position? Or is he the only remaining threat to the puppet masters?
- How come the allegations are based on the declaration that happened in 2003, not on those that were filled in 2007, or 2011, or even 2015?
- Since Buhari announced that he’ll be making public his ministerial list, the list said to cut across all the defecting parties (ACN, AD, ANPP, CPC & PDP) could it be that these puppet masters and award winning gladiators are afraid their candidates will be subjected to rigorous Senate screenings? Since Saraki has pledged to ensure checks and balances and discourage ‘’bow and go’’ confirmation?
- Buhari himself has said before that Senator Bukola Saraki’s emergence, as the Chairman of the 8th Assembly was constitutional. Now, why will he watch some cabal in his government use unconstitutional means to remove him?
- I also recall that when Tinubu was slammed with a 3-count charge by the same CCT, his party the ACN issued a public press statement insisting that the actions of the CCB were overzealous. Now I ask where is the backing of the APC in Saraki’s case? Why is he standing alone? Isn’t the trial basically the same as Tinubu’s 2011 experience, or is Tinubu simply above the law? In addition to this, Tinubu specifically requested that his trial be moved to Lagos. With the turn of events, can Saraki equally ask that his case be moved to Kwara? Shay what is good for the goose is also good for the gander? Don’t worry; we will consult the gods on this one.
- Now, it’s the CCT that is being used. Who will they use next? Fellow Nigerians: are we all going to seat back, fold our hands and let all these puppet masters use us all one by one? I’ll leave you to answer that.
But meanwhile, I hope these few questions of mine, will let you all understand that the mathematics of Saraki’s case does not add up. If it does, abeg, help me and do the math so that I will not fail the next time they ask me a question like: “How many Tinubu’s and Buhari’s does it take to witch hunt 1 Saraki?”
Your guess is as good as mine.
Oluwaseyi David Tosin writes from Port Harcourt.
The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author.


text: Informative and interesting. Unfortunately there were only 4 German-speaking tourists on the bus, so the explanations on the bus were in German, on the wineries there was only Italian and English anyway! Well, it was all right. You know what I mean! It's just a shame that there were so many "overseas tourists" who were more busy with the loud, giggling selection of Selfies than anything else!

domain: travel


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For immediate release: October 9, 2018 (18-144)
Contact: Sharon Moysiuk, Strategic Communications Office 360-549-6471
Public inquiries: Health Systems Customer Service 360-236-4700
State disciplines health care providers
OLYMPIA -- The Washington State Department of Health has taken disciplinary actions or withdrawn charges against health care providers in our state.
The department’s Health Systems Quality Assurance Division works with boards, commissions, and advisory committees to set licensing standards for more than 80 health care professions (e.g., medical doctors, nurses, counselors).
Information about health care providers is on the agency website. Click on “Look up a health care provider license” in the “How Do I?” section of the Department of Health website (doh.wa.gov). The site includes information about a health care provider’s license status, the expiration and renewal date of their credential, disciplinary actions and copies of legal documents issued after July 1998. This information is also available by calling 360-236-4700. Consumers who think a health care provider acted unprofessionally are encouraged to call and report their complaint.
In September 2018 the Pharmacy Commission charged pharmacist Mustafa G. Elziny (PH60168979) with unprofessional conduct. Charges say Elziny was the responsible manager of a pharmacy that underwent state and federal audits after a burglary in which 2,653 narcotics tablets were missing. Elziny allegedly didn’t submit a loss form after the burglary. During the audit, charges say, the pharmacy was found to be missing about 1,188 narcotics tablets from its inventory. Elziny allegedly forged a transfer document in an attempt to account for some of the missing medication. Elziny also allegedly tested positive for drugs for which he lacked prescriptions.
In September 2018 the Unlicensed Practice Program entered an agreement with Keith Scott Jr. that requires him to cease and desist from performing massage therapy without a license, and to pay a $200 fine. Scott, who advertised massage therapy services, performed massage therapy even though he’s never had a license.
In September 2018 the Dental Commission charged dental assistant Sharon Louise Carlson (D160030197) with unprofessional conduct. Carlson allegedly didn’t comply with a substance abuse monitoring contract. She allegedly didn’t pass a required jurisprudence examination.
In September 2018 the Dental Commission agreed to reinstate the dentist credential of John Lui (DE00007424). Lui must pass a jurisprudence examination, complete continuing education in ethics, and receive counseling from a mental health professional. The dentist’s license was suspended in 2017. In 2016 Lui was convicted of third-degree assault, patronizing a prostitute, and second-degree criminal trespass.
In September 2018 the secretary of health ordered Xiaodong Yang to cease and desist from practicing massage without a license, and to pay a $1,000 fine. In 2018 Yang was charged with second-degree rape, and with indecent liberties, in connection with allegedly sexually assaulting two clients while performing massages. Yang, who has no massage therapist license, told a police officer he receives pay for massage services.
In September 2018 the secretary of health ended probation for midwife Suzanne Lynn Thomson (MW00000204).
In September 2018 the Pharmacy Commission ended conditions on the pharmacist credential of Rachel Lee Loukas (PH60142436).
In September 2018 the Massage Therapist Program charged massage therapist Delilah Zaniewski (MA00011564) with unprofessional conduct. Zaniewski allegedly didn’t provide documentation of having completed required continuing education.
In August 2018 the secretary of health denied provisional home care aide and home care aide credentials to Yoojong Choi (PV60855055, HM60855051). In 2018 the state Department of Social and Health services disqualified Choi from caring for vulnerable adults, juveniles, and children, thus prohibiting her from certification.
In September 2018 the Dental Commission ended some conditions on the credential of dentist Kristine Lazar Grace (DE00008652, GA10000296). Grace’s general anesthesia permit remains revoked and restrictions remain on her ability to prescribe or administer any form of sedation including nitrous oxide.
In September 2018 the Massage Therapist Program charged massage therapist Sharon M. Kaye (MA00019897) with unprofessional conduct. Kaye allegedly didn't provide documentation of having completed required continuing education.
In September 2018 the Unlicensed Practice Program notified Tender Loving Home Care of its intent to issue a cease-and-desist order. The company allegedly either advertised in-home services or responded to requests for in-home services, and employed or contracted with people to provide in-home services, but has no in-home services agency license.
Walla Walla County
In September 2018 the Nursing Assistant Program charged registered nursing assistant Amanda Kay Jundt (NA60265499) with unprofessional conduct. Jundt allegedly stole a client’s controlled substances, and allegedly took expired drugs that should have been disposed of.
In September 2018 the Nursing Assistant Program charged certified nursing assistant Henry Anthony McCormick (NC10014815) with unprofessional conduct. While McCormick was helping transfer a care and rehabilitation center patient from a wheelchair to a bed, he allegedly didn’t check for proper sling placement. Charges say the patient fell, sustained injuries, and subsequently died.
Out of State
California: In September 2018 the secretary of health ended probation for massage therapist Zhongmin Wang (MA60219273).
Idaho: In August 2018 the secretary of health denied a home care aide credential to Edward Kai Lawrence (HM60791196), who didn’t supply proof of having undergone a required examination.
Oregon: In September 2018 the Nursing Commission conditionally granted a licensed practical nurse credential to Ashley Renee Crawford (LP60851639) and ordered her to participate in a substance abuse monitoring program. In 2016 the Oregon Board of Nursing ordered Crawford to sign a monitoring contract after she had alcohol in her system while working in a health care setting.
Note to Editors: Health care providers charged with unprofessional conduct have 20 days to respond to the Department of Health in writing. The case then enters the settlement process. If no disciplinary agreement can be reached, the case will go to a hearing.

domain: medical


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The impressive ancient temples of the Hindus can be found on Java and many other Islands, but Bali has the most temples, and the most unusual temple. The “Devata Vishnu” temple is underwater – 90 feet beneath the ocean’s surface near Pemuteran Beach in North West Bali. .
Join us as we journey to the land of the gods. We have curated an unforgettable experience. One that will expand your consciousness, tantalize your taste buds and connect you with a tribe of awakened beings. This will be a life changing journey that will have you leaving this magical place more in tune with your authentic self. To take the first step on your journey to Bali click the link in the bio.
Life’s a journey, journey with us. #soltribetravel

domain: geography


[NYPost] Tim Hardaway Jr.: No reason Knicks can’t make playoff push (Saturday, January 20, 2018 5:48:10 PM) LOS ANGELES — Jeff Hornacek can talk all he wants about the Knicks organization’s vision that making playoffs is not a priority during this season of development. Tim Hardaway Jr., after being in the dance two straight seasons with Atlanta, wants to be in the playoffs. Coming off his 31-point explosion in Friday’s victory at… [NYPost] Enes Kanter mocks LeBron James after Cavs’ blowout loss (Saturday, January 20, 2018 2:26:05 PM) The Knicks didn’t play the Cavaliers on Saturday, but another chapter was …continue reading
[NYPost] Kemba Walker’s availability is a big conundrum for Knicks fans (Friday, January 19, 2018 9:59:56 PM) This is the dilemma of every Knicks fan with any sense of hope who is always wrestling with an equal appreciation of history: You hear that Kemba Walker is available, that the Charlotte Hornets are thinking of trading the electric guard who cut his basketball teeth in The Bronx, starred at Harlem’s Rice High (RIP,… [NYPost] Knicks nip Jazz as Tim Hardaway dominates in return as a starter (Friday, January 19, 2018 8:29:10 PM) SALT LAKE CITY — Tim Hardaway Jr. returned to …continue reading
Rudy Gobert returns for the Jazz tonight as they host the Knicks on national television. That is not a good thing for the Knicks, but hey, this team makes no sense, watch them do really well against the Jazz even with Gobert. Let’s go? Knicks?
[SNY Knicks] NBA announces All-Star starters: Kristaps Porzingis falls short (Thursday, January 18, 2018 6:25:57 PM) Kristaps Porzingis fell just on the outside looking in to be an All-Star starter, as LeBron James, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Joel Embiid were voted ahead of him. [SNY Knicks] Report: Hornacek could be coaching for his job in final 37 games (Thursday, January 18, 2018 5:35:09 PM) According to a report, Jeff Hornacek might be coaching for his job amid ‘whispers’ that Mark Jackson could replace him. [SNY Knicks] Hornacek says bad defense cost Knicks game, not technical foul (Thursday, January 18, 2018 11:53:47 …continue reading
[NYTimes] Grizzlies 105, Knicks 99: Grizzlies, Minus Gasol, Still Manage to Beat Knicks (Thursday, January 18, 2018 4:21:50 AM) Tyreke Evans led the way for Memphis as the Grizzlies held off a late surge by the Knicks. The Grizzlies had not won consecutive games since October. [NYTimes] Trevor Ariza and Gerald Green Suspended Over Rockets-Clippers Melee (Thursday, January 18, 2018 2:57:58 AM) Ariza and Green were barred for two games each, but no other players were punished, as a result of a contentious game that included a locker room invasion. [NYTimes] Jo Jo White, Deadeye Shooter for Boston Celtics, Dies …continue reading
The Knicks head to Memphis on the second game of their seven-game/two-week long road trip. Luckily for the Knicks, both Memphis centers, Marc Gasol and Brandon Wright, are out tonight due to illness (I hope it is not Consumption. La bohème let me know that that stuff is dangerous as heck). So this really should be both the first Knick winning streak in quite a while but their first road winning streak period this season. How pathetic is that? This is the Knicks, so you know they’re going to make a run at the #9 seed, so this is likely …continue reading


The Amur leopard also called the Far East leopard, is the world’s rarest large cat with many interesting facts and information. A subspecies of the leopard, these animals are discovered within the forested transboundary area that spans the Russian Far East and China. This article will describe some of the Amur Leopard Facts and Information.
They’re critically endangered, and WWF works with native communities, regional authorities, authorities, and different non-governmental organizations to save lots of the Amur leopard and make sure the long-term conservation of the area.
Amur Leopard Facts and Information
There are 16 large cat species on the IUCN Endangered Listing, all however certainly one of which is from Asia (together with the Critically Endangered South China Tiger, Sumatran Tiger, and Asiatic Cheetah). Of the world’s 9 subspecies of leopard, six are both Endangered or Critically Endangered.
Check out some Amur Leopard Facts and Information
1. One other evolutionary benefit that has helped these leopards survive in snowy environs is the truth that their legs are a bit of longer than different leopards, and their feet are a bit of larger, which is one of the interesting Amur Leopard facts. This higher equips them for strolling, prowling, and looking within the snow.
2. Like many large cats, Amur Leopards are nocturnal. Throughout the day, they usually sleep in caves or underneath cowl. They watch for the added benefit of dusk– notably at nightfall and daybreak– for looking, which is one of the interesting Amur Leopard facts. Cats’ eyes are geared to be efficient for evening imaginative and prescient and aren’t almost nearly as good within the daylight.
3. The territory of a single Amur Leopard will be huge, protecting almost 120 sq. miles, which is one of the interesting Amur Leopard facts. That is around 75,000 acres or greater than 55,000 soccer fields! Whereas they roam such giant areas, the cats are additionally identified to be extremely territorial. In different phrases, there must be a variety of wild terrain with the intention to keep wholesome inhabitants.
4. The Amur Leopard is also called the Russian Leopard, Far East Leopard, the Manchurian Leopard, and the Korean Leopard. Additionally included on this record of names is the North-Chinese language Leopard, which was previously acknowledged as separate subspecies, which is one of the interesting Amur Leopard facts. No matter we select to name these superb animals informally, their official scientific title is Panthera pardus Orientalis.
5. Their title comes from a river close to their habitat. Amur leopards are additionally known as the Far Jap leopard, Manchurian leopard, Korean leopard, or Siberian leopard, which is one of the interesting Amur Leopard facts.
6. A variety of habitats are occupied by the Amur leopard together with grasslands, mountains, and lowland forests, which is one of the interesting Amur Leopard facts.
7. The small inhabitants of Amur leopards are restricted to a small portion of far-east Russia and an adjoining space of China. Some sightings are additionally sometimes made in Korea. The biggest inhabitants (consisting of 50-60 animals) are at present discovered within the Land of the Leopard Nationwide Park which is in Russia.
8. Questioning why they’re known as the Korean Leopard after they’re solely present in China and Russia? That’s as a result of the primary identified documentation of the Amur Leopard was in Korea in 1857, when German zoologist Hermann Schlegel found a pelt.
9. Regardless of being comparable in measurement, Amur leopards are sexually dimorphic, with males naturally a bit heftier than the females. Males common inside the vary of 70-110 kilos; females are a bit much less cumbersome, averaging between 55 and 75 kilos.
With simply 70 left within the wild the Amur leopard is believed to be the world’s rarest large cat, which is one of the interesting Amur Leopard facts.
10. Amur Leopards are the one subspecies of the leopard which have tailored to chilly local weather. They stay in the temperate broadleaf and combined forests on mountains. (Be aware: Although their title suggests in any other case, Snow Leopards aren’t truly leopards. They’re truly a species all their very own, Panthera uncia as an alternative of Panthera pardus.)
11. Amur Leopards primarily eat deer, of which there are a number of varieties of their habitat vary. Siberian roe deer and Manchurian sika deer are their most important pray, however Siberian musk deer, Manchurian wapiti, and Amur moose (the most important animal within the deer household) are additionally on the common menu.
12. Amur Leopards are distinctive from different leopards as a result of their fur tends to be thicker and typically paler– virtually a creamy yellow coloration– than that of the opposite subspecies, which is one of the interesting Amur Leopard facts.
13. These leopards typically share the area with Siberian Tigers (a.ok.a. Amur Tigers), which compete for prey. Sadly, tigers are greater than twice the scale of Amur Leopards and far stronger. However tigers favor moist, lowland areas, whereas Amur Leopards favor mountainous terrain. Amur Tigers have been as soon as on the point of extinction, with lower than 50 left, however made a big comeback within the latter half of the 20th century.
14. Like most large cats, Amur Leopards are extraordinarily athletic. They will run almost 40 miles per hour. They will soar virtually 20 ft horizontally and as much as 10 ft vertically. After looking at their sizable prey, they have the power to hold carcasses to cover them from different predators.
15. The destruction of Amur Leopard habitat for the needs of improvement has arguably been much more damaging than poaching. Unlawful industrial logging and large-scale agricultural enlargement have decimated the temperate forests these animals have roamed for hundreds of years. With insufficient territories, Amur Leopards are struggling to search out sufficient area to stay fruitfully.
16. There may be observational proof that these leopards follow seasonal breeding. This occurs in late winter, in order that Amur Leopard cubs are born in late spring or early summertime after the frost subsides. Feminine leopards can solely procreate for 10-15 days throughout that point.
17. Humanity is inflicting different points for the animals as properly. A lot of those mountain forests have been felled with the intention to elevate domesticated animals for human consumption. Including to the issue are villagers who hunt Roe and Sika Deer to promote and/or eat. Sadly, this encroachment comes at a steep value for the Amur Leopard eating regimen.
18. Like all leopards, Amur Leopards have spots (known as “rosettes”) that cowl their heads, backs, tails, and legs. These rosettes are roughly two inches sq. and black. On the Amur Leopard, they’re spaced a bit additional aside, with thicker swabs of black than different leopard species.
19. With such giant habitats and intense territoriality, these large cats are comparatively solitary until it’s time to breed. Throughout the mating season, many males will comply with a single feminine leopard and struggle over her for the correct to procreate, which is one of the interesting Amur Leopard facts.
20. Each gender of the Amur Leopard is usually someplace between 42 and 54 inches lengthy and 25-31 inches tall on the shoulder. Their tails add one other 32-35 inches to their total size, which is one of the interesting Amur Leopard facts.
21. One other problem is that these endangered animals have a very low degree of genetic variation. With Amur Leopard inhabitants numbers already dangerously low, one easy virus might probably wipe out most of the present people, as a result of none of them might have the correct immune system to resist infection.
22. When obligatory, the Amur Leopard eating regimen expands in some fascinating instructions. They are going to hunt wild boar, badgers, birds, mice, and hares. They’ve even been recorded looking younger Asian black bears within the Kedrovaya Pad Nature Reserve.
23. The creation of Land of the Leopard Nationwide Park is maybe essentially the most vital stride in Amur Leopard conservation up to now. In 2012, the Russian authorities put aside some 650,000 acres of taiga forest land that features 60% of the leopards’ habitat and all of their breeding grounds. The Russian nationwide park can be residence to 10 Amur Tigers.
24. In accordance with most sources, the 2018 Amur Leopard inhabitants were lower than 100 people. And plenty of of those are scattered too extensively to have a viable likelihood at repopulation. There are roughly double this quantity (round 200) in captivity, principally in zoos all through Europe, North America, and the previous Soviet Union.
25. Previously often called the Amur Leopard & Tiger Alliance (ALTA), WildCats Conservation Alliance now leads a concerted effort to guard wild populations of Amur Leopards and supply support for constructing their capability to maintain themselves. The alliance additionally offers to fund for breeding packages in European, Australasian, and North American zoos.
26. As a result of temperate local weather of their habitat, these leopards have summertime fur that’s slightly below an inch thick. Within the winter their fur thickens to over three inches with the intention to keep heat. The cats even have paler coats than different leopards with the intention to assist with camouflaging them within the snow.
27. Amur Leopards usually are not extinct but. However they’re critically endangered, the classification for the animals most at risk of going extinct. They have been placed on the IUCN Crimson Listing underneath this classification in 1996. Fortunately, the wild Amur Leopard inhabitants have elevated barely since then.
28. Lower than 100 Amur Leopards are left within the wild. Some censuses report their populations as little as 60 people, whereas others have it at roughly 100. There is roughly 200 extra in captivity in numerous zoos around the globe, which is one of the interesting Amur Leopard facts.
29. Along with side different organizations, together with the Russian Academy of Science, TIGIS, Tigris, and the Phoenix Fund, Wildlife Conservation Society Russia is working to gather organic knowledge, monitor Amur Leopard populations, gauge the results of a fireplace on their habitats, and thwart unlawful poaching of the animals.
30. The Zoological Society of London has been aiding in Amur Tigers and Amur Leopard conservation efforts for over a decade now. The society works with native regulation enforcement to forestall unlawful commerce, in addition to serving to with well being monitoring for the animals.
31. Amur leopards are opportunistic carnivores so that they’ll eat/hunt nearly any meat that’s out there, together with younger Asian Black Bears, which is one of the interesting Amur Leopard facts. Nevertheless, their most important sources of meals are Sika and Roe Deer.
32. Amur Leopards stay in Jap Asia, primarily in Russia and China, although some reviews point out there should be some in North Korea. They stay within the mountains, in broadleaf and combined forests. Their frequent title, Amur, truly references a river alongside which most Amur Leopards stay.
33. Like many animals, Amur Leopards stay barely longer in captivity than they do within the wild. The typical lifespan of a wild leopard clock in at someplace between 10 and 15 years, however, they’ve been identified to succeed in 20 in captivity. Sadly, there are at present extra captive Amur Leopards than there are within the wild.
34. These days, the vast majority of Amur Leopard habitat is within the mountains of the Russian Far East (Primorsky Krai) and Northeast China (Jilin and Heilongjang). There are some reviews that they’ve been noticed in North Korea as properly. However the final verification of an Amur Leopard in South Korea was 50 years in the past when one was captured on Odo Mountain.
35. There are about 200 Amur Leopards are in captivity, which is greater than double the wild inhabitants. Thankfully, breeding packages in zoos have been capable of efficiently mate Amur Leopards. Most of those captive leopards are in zoos in Europe, North America, and the previous Soviet Union.
36. Much like different leopards, the Amur leopard can run at speeds of as much as 37 miles per hour. This unimaginable animal has been reported to leap greater than 19 ft horizontally and as much as 10 ft vertically.
37. Amur leopards stay within the Amur Heilong Panorama, which spans each of the Russian Far East and adjoining areas of China, which is one of the interesting Amur Leopard facts. This uncommon subspecies of leopard has tailored to life within the temperate forests that make up the northernmost a part of the species’ vary.
38. In a tremendous story of restoration associated with concerted conservation efforts, the variety of Amur leopards in Russia has elevated from 27-32 to 70-75 within the final 15 years, whereas China has recorded a rise of 13-15 people in bordering provinces.
39. Amur leopards have a paler coat than most subspecies of leopards, and enormous, darkish, extensively spaced rosettes with thick, unbroken rings. They weigh 70-105 kilos. Since they’re so properly tailored to dwelling within the harsh, chilly local weather of the Russian Far East, they have a thick coat that may develop so long as 7 centimeters in winter.
40. The Amur leopards are poached largely for his or her stunning, noticed fur. Additionally they endure from prey shortage as a result of the prey they feed on, resembling roe deer, sika deer, and a hare, are hunted by native communities for each meal and earnings. They’re additionally threatened by habitat loss.
41. Amur leopards have one to 4 cubs. They’re weaned at the age of three months. Some males stick with females after mating and should even assist with rearing the younger. Cubs usually go away their moms across the age of 1 and a half to 2 years. Usually, siblings keep contact throughout their early years of independence.
42. Amur leopards acquired a secure haven in 2012 when the Russian authorities declared a brand new protected space known as Land of the Leopard Nationwide Park. The park is 650,000 acres and consists of a lot of the Amur leopard’s breeding areas and about 60 % of their remaining habitat. The park can be residence to 10 endangered Amur tigers. WWF had lobbied for the institution of this park since 2001. Conservationists are additionally working towards monitoring leopard populations as they disperse from the park into different components of the area, in addition to throughout the border and into neighboring Chinese language nature reserves, and hope to ascertain a Sino-Russian transboundary nature reserve.
43. Amur Leopards are carnivores by means of and thru. Like different cats, they’ve tough tongues which are coated with denticles, or tiny hooks, which are used to scrape meat off the bone. Hold that in thoughts the subsequent time you assume how cute it’s when your own home cat is licking your hand!
44. Local weather change is one other contributing consider decreasing the appropriate habitat for Amur Leopards, concurrently inflicting an extra lower in prey, which is one of the interesting Amur Leopard facts.
45. Amur Leopards are thought-about essentially the most endangered cats on the planet, partly resulting from poaching. As a result of their pelts are strikingly stunning, they fetch $1000 or extra on the black market. Some villagers, who moved nearer to leopard habitat searching for agricultural land, nonetheless hunt them for cash (even though the rarest leopard species is protected by CITES).
46. Having nearly the identical eating regimen and sharing the identical area, on uncommon events Amur Tigers will truly prey on the lot smaller Amur Leopards with the intention to scale back competitors for meals. Because the meals provide continues to dwindle, this type of factor may turn into extra problematic.
47. World Wildlife Fund was instrumental in lobbying Russia to create the Land of the Leopard Nationwide Park as a secure haven for Russian leopards and different animals. Moreover, WWF screens Amur Leopard populations through digital camera traps and works to extend their prey populations. WWF has additionally supported anti-poaching efforts and packages to cease the unlawful commerce of Amur Leopards and different endangered species.
48. Amur Leopards gestate for about 12 weeks, they usually give start to litters of 1 to four cubs, which is one of the interesting Amur Leopard facts.
49. Child Amur Leopards weigh lower than two kilos at the start. They’re born blind and begin transferring round after about two weeks. By the point they’re just a few weeks outdated, they’re already consuming meat. Amur cubs stick with their moms till they’re two years outdated, and by the point, they’re three or 4 years outdated they’re able to have cubs of their very own.
50. The animal’s title comes from the Amur River, the 10th longest river on this planet, which flows into the ocean in jap Russia and types a part of the border with China. Amur Leopards inhabit areas each north and south of the river.
51. Amur leopards are necessary ecologically. They’re prime predators, which means they play a necessary function in sustaining a wholesome steadiness of species of their habitat. This influences the situation of the forest and ecosystem, which provides wildlife and folks with meals, fresh water, and plenty of different assets. Conservation of Amur leopard habitat additionally advantages different species, together with Amur tigers and prey species like deer.
52. Leopards are silent more often than not, however, typically they provide hoarse, rasping coughs to promote their presence or to announce territorial boundaries. Some leopards purr whereas feeding, which is one of the interesting Amur Leopard facts.
53. Leopards are nimble-footed and powerful. They carry and conceal unfinished kills, usually to larger branches on timber, in order that their meals shouldn’t be taken by different predators. They’re mentioned to be essentially the most completed stalkers and climbers of the massive cats, and their immense power permits them to sort out prey as much as 10 instances of their very own weight.
You possibly can assist Amur leopards. Take the motion to cease wildlife crime.
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text:
An Exclusive Interview with U.S. European Command-1 (Part-2)
An exclusive Interview with the Spokesperson of U.S. European Command conducted by Editor in Chief (Part-2)
Q 4: Earlier in March in support of NATO Exercise “Dynamic Manta” and other operations, guided-missile destroyer USS Donald Cook (DDG 75) provided overall defense for the “Charles de Gaulle Carrier Strike Group” (CDG CSG) in the Mediterranean.
- Could you comment on the importance of this exercise in the pivotal context of the U.S- French military partnership?
U.S. European Command Spokesperson: In the beginning of March, the Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Donald Cook (DDG 75) provided multi-warfare defense to France’s Charles de Gaulle Carrier Strike Group (CDG CSG) in the Mediterranean to support NATO Exercise Dynamic Manta and other operations. High-end integration is only facilitated through trust, sharing and cooperation. This level of operational interchangeability is unique to the NATO Alliance, and we maintain our asymmetric advantage through participation in exercises like Dynamic Manta, which takes place off the coast of Sicily.
This was not the first time the two vessels trained together. In 2019, USS Donald Cook joined CDG in exercise FANAL 19, which involved operations across all maritime warfare disciplines. In recent history, the U.S. Navy has worked side-by-side with the French Navy throughout the European and African theater of operation. In 2016, USS Ross (DDG 71) operated with CDG as part of Combined Task Force 473 in the Mediterranean. In April 2018, France, the UK and the U.S. conducted strikes into Syria in response to the Syrian regime’s use of chemical weapons against its own people. In 2020, the Ross operated with CDG in eastern Mediterranean as part of Operations Chammal and Inherent Resolve, the overarching missions against the expansion of ISIS in Iraq and Syria.
France is one of America’s oldest allies dating back to 1781 with their support in the U.S. Revolutionary War. This strong bond between our two nations reinforced our relationship and tested our joint combat skills during both World Wars. Today, this relationship continues in that great tradition of exceptional partnership between the U.S. and French militaries.
Q 5: USEUCOM maintains a crucial role in assisting allies and partner nations in the fight against Covid-19.
- Can you describe the measures USEUCOM has executed in this regard in the military and civilian arenas?
U.S. European Command Spokesperson: USEUCOM support to our Allies and partners during the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic has been unwavering and resolute. A mere nine days after the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a global pandemic on March 11, 2020, USEUCOM’s crisis and humanitarian response professionals identified and facilitated the swift transfer of $150,000 worth of medical equipment and related supplies from a military warehouse in Livorno to hospitals and clinics throughout Italy. The first Italian assistance mission on March 20, 2021 was USEUCOM’s first formal support to NATO Allies during the pandemic.
Since then, the command has programmed more than $21 million in assistance across 24 European nations, spanning the continent from Latvia to Greece and the Czech Republic to Azerbaijan. From delivering personal protective equipment and sanitizing solutions for schools and assisted-living facilities to donating medical equipment for first responders, hospitals and clinics, USEUCOM personnel supported these life-saving efforts.
In addition, USEUCOM turned to its existing relationships established through the U.S. Department of Defense’s State Partnership Program (SPP.) The SPP pairs a U.S. state’s National Guard with a partner nation in a cooperative, mutually beneficial relationship.
In November 2020, a six-member National Guard medical team from U.S. states Texas and Nebraska deployed to their SPP partner nation, the Czech Republic, to provide medical support as that nation faced threatening levels of nationwide infection.
Two SPP nations also provided COVID-19 support to the United States, as two separate teams – one from Poland, the other Romania – deployed to the U.S. to provide support in their partner states.
News from: U.S KFOR Regional Command East U.S European Command
- U.S Army Europe and Africa
- US Naval Forces Europe-Africa French Navy
- The U.S. Army Reserve’s 7th Mission Support Command
- U.S Air Force Europe-Africa
- The 7th Army Training follow us: @USEUWAffairs
The Interview is subject to Copyright Law. ©U.S. European Command/U.S. Army Europe and Africa /U.S Army/ U.S Europe World Affairs.

domain: news


text:
Our compensation policies are an essential component of our employee value proposition and a key driver of both individual and business performance
The ability to attract, motivate and retain the right talented employees globally is key to the continued success of Givaudan. Our competitive remuneration policy supports this ambition and is based on the following principles:
- Pay for performance.
- Alignment of interests.
- External competitiveness.
- Internal consistency and fairness.
Total compensation in 2022 is composed of the following elements:
- Base salary for all employees.
- Benefits for all employees (including retirement, insurance and health care plans).
- Cash-based Profit Sharing Plan for approximately 12,000 non-management employees based on Group financial objectives.
- Cash-based Annual Incentive Plan for around 5,000 managers and executives.
- Equity-based Performance Share Plan (PSP) for the top 500 employees.
Base salaries are regularly benchmarked in each location and pay scales are reviewed annually according to local market evolution. As a general rule, pay scales are built around market median. Benefit plans seek to address current and future security needs of employees. These generally include retirement, health, death and disability benefits.
Non-management employees participate in the global Profit Sharing Plan. Payouts are based on the yearly evolution of Group EBITDA.
The Annual Incentive Plan covers all managers and executives globally. It rewards participants for the achievement of financial targets and other organisational and individual objectives.
The PSP is designed to reward executives and key talent who significantly influence the long-term success of the business and our purpose ambitions. From 1 January 2021, a new PSP aligned with the Givaudan purpose was introduced. The financial metrics of sales and free cash flow traditionally used to calculate the PSP are retained, and are complemented by non-financial criteria linked to three of the four focus areas of the Givaudan purpose:
- Creations: Financial targets of sales and free cash flow
- Nature: Environmental targets of net GHG emissions reduction
- People: Social targets of senior leader diversity and employee safety
Performance Share Plan for top 500 employees
Compensation of the Board of Directors
Compensation of Board members consists of Director fees, Committee fees and Restricted Share Units (RSUs). Fees are paid at the end of each year in office completed. RSUs give participants the right to receive Givaudan shares (or a cash equivalent in countries where securities laws prevent the offering of Givaudan securities) at the end of a three-year blocking period. During this period, Board members must hold RSUs (accordingly are restricted from trading RSUs or the underlying Givaudan shares), thereby aligning with shareholder interests over the longer term. Board members are entitled to receive Givaudan shares regardless of membership status so that, for example, if re-election does not occur during the restriction period, awarded RSUs are retained by the respective Board member. Such practice has been implemented in line with best practice in support of Givaudan’s commitment to ensuring Board independence.
The compensation of CHF 3,115,544, paid to the Board members for the period between the 2021 and 2022 Annual General Meetings is again within the amount approved by shareholders at the 2021 Annual General Meeting. The amount approved at the 2022 Annual General Meeting (CHF 3,500,000), will be paid by the end of the year in office and validated in the 2023 Compensation report. Such approved and paid amounts may differ from those shown in the Board compensation summary table which, according to the OaEC, must include compensation paid in the reporting year.
Board of Directors compensation summary
|in Swiss francs||Year||
|Calvin Grieder, Chairman 1||2022||400,000||65,000||465,000||160||578,816||1,043,816|
|Victor Balli 1||2022||100,000||80,000||180,000||40||144,704||324,704|
|Prof.Dr-Ing. Werner Bauer 1||2022||100,000||65,000||165,000||40||144,704||309,704|
|Lilian Biner 1||2022||100,000||25,000||125,000||40||144,704||269,704|
|Michael Carlos 1||2022||100,000||65,000||165,000||40||144,704||309,704|
|Ingrid Deltenre 1||2022||100,000||50,000||150,000||40||144,704||294,704|
|Olivier Filiol 1||2022||100,000||50,000||150,000||40||144,704||294,704|
|Sophie Gasperment 1||2022||100,000||43,750||143,750||40||144,704||288,454|
|Tom Knutzen 1||2022||75,000||18,750||93,750||40||108,528||202,278|
|Thomas Rufer 7||2022|
|Total compensation 2||2022||3,337,772|
|Total compensation 2||2021||3,183,126|
The function of each member of the Board of Directors is indicated on pages 7–9 in the 2021 Governance report and 13–15 in the 2022 Governance Report.
Represents total compensation of the Board of Director paid in respect of the reporting year, reported in accordance with the accrual principle.
Represents Director and Committee fees paid in respect of the reporting year, reported in accordance with the accrual principle.
2022 RSUs blocking period end on 15 April 2025; 2021 RSUs end on 15 April 2024.
Economic value at grant according to IFRS methodology with no discount applied for the blocking period.
2022 figures represent compensation from April to December.
Thomas Rufer retired at the AGM in March 2021.
Estimated social security charges based on 2022 compensation amounted to CHF 258,719 (2021: CHF 263,416).
Compensation of the Executive Committee
Total Executive Committee (EC) compensation reported in 2022 remained stable compared to 2021, representing full-year compensation for seven members (including the Chief Executive Officer). decreased by 6.6%, reflecting lower annual incentive achievement. Total fixed compensation and long-term incentive grant values remain stable.
The compensation paid is within the amounts approved by shareholders at the respective Annual General Meeting. The fixed and long term variable compensation approved for 2022 was CHF 15,400,000 (2021: CHF 15,400,000). The annual incentive, short-term variable compensation amount for 2022 was CHF 3,336,733 and will be submitted for approval at the 2023 Annual General Meeting (2021: CHF 5,461,355).
Executive Committee (EC) compensation summary
|in Swiss francs||Year||
shares granted 5
|Value at grant 6||
|Gilles Andrier, CEO||2022||1,228,041||573,379||134,689||1,936,109||1,114,879||691||2,499,762||3,614,641||5,550,750||459,497|
|EC, excluding CEO 1||2022||3,283,409||1,096,069||400,918||4,780,396||2,221,854||1,631||5,900,306||8,112,160||12,902,556||993,217|
|Total: EC, including CEO||2022||4,511,450||1,669,448||535,607||6,716,505||3,336,733||2,322||8,400,068||11,736,801||18,453,306||1,452,714|
Represents full year compensation of six Executive Committee members.
Company contributions to broad-based pension and retirement savings plans and annualised expenses accrued for supplementary executive retirement benefit.
Represents annual value of health and welfare plans, international assignment benefits and other benefits in kind.
Annual incentive accrued in reporting period based on performance in the reporting period.
2022 Performance shares vest on 15 April 2025, 2021 Performance Shares vest on 15 April 2024.
Value at grant calculated according to IFRS methodology and based on 100% achievement of performance targets.
2022 estimated social security charges based on 2022 compensation; 2021 estimated social security charges based on 2021 compensation.
Ownership of Givaudan securities
As per 31 December 2022, the Chairman and other Board members, including persons closely connected to them held 6,850 Givaudan shares in total. The Chief Executive Officer and other members of the Executive Committee, including persons closely connected to them, held 9,637 Givaudan shares. One person closely connected to a member of the Executive Committee owned 159 unvested Performance Shares as at 31 December 2022.
Board of Directors: ownership of Givaudan securities
|Calvin Grieder, Chairman||1,199||537|
|Prof. Dr-Ing. Werner Bauer||1,491||134|
Executive Committee: ownership of Givaudan securities
|Gilles Andrier, CEO||4,714||2,314|
Click here to read more about compensation.

domain: finance


text:
If Happiness Were the Only Global Currency, How Would the Most Important Decisions in Your Life Change?
Submitted by smartknowledgeu.
If we all were to make the significant decisions in our lives based upon a happiness quotient instead of the resultant monetary gain, how drastically would our world and our reality change? Presented without further commentary.
About SmartKnowledgeU: SmartKnowledgeU is a fiercely independent and atypical investment research and consulting firm dedicated to exposing the lies and deceit of the mainstream financial industry and towards building real wealth and helping clients build true happiness in their lives.


Reported by Santosh Jagdev
Bhubaneswar, Feb 21:
Mahila Police today arrested a 40-year-old Odisha film director Nishikant Dalabehera for allegedly assaulting and torturing his wife for dowry and inflicting grievous injury on her by attacking her several times.
The accused Ollywood director Nishikant, hailing from Jharsuguda, was arrested by the police after acting on the complaint lodged by his wife Mamata Dalabehera who has been staying with him in GGP Colony in the city.
The accused had got married to Mamata in 2003 and the couple have an eight-year old son.
Failing to bear torture from her husband, Mamata on February 18 lodged a complaint with Mahila police station following which police today arrested him.
A case (81/15) has been registered against Dalabehera, slapping charges 498, 294, 506, 325 and 34 of IPC against him, who was produced in a local court here today, police sources said.
Notably, Dalabehera has directed films like ‘Tu Mo Arambha Tu Mo Shesha’, ‘Mun’, ‘Family Number-1’ and ‘Salaam Cinema’.


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SpaceX, an aerospace company founded by Elon Mus, is working diligently on a wildly ambitious project: permanently populate people on Mars.
In order to make this vision a reality, Muska Company is developing a colossal, fully reusable launch system called Starship.
Star ship is supposed to be a 180-foot spacecraft that will ride in orbit at the top of the Super Heavy, rocket amplifier, about 220 feet high, according to the latest Mask descriptions. The spacecraft is designed for refueling in a low Earth orbit in order to launch 100 passengers in Mars and more than 100 tons of cargo.
But the success or failure of the launch system ̵
One change involves construction Spacecraft of Alloys of Stainless Steel instead of carbon composites. But the surprising shift, according to experts in the aerospace industry, is how Star Ship tries to keep itself from burning in the atmosphere of Mars and Earth.
Instead of relying on thousands of heavy ceramic tiles to protect Starship from heat, as NASA did with its spacecraft, Musk says the spacecraft "pumps" rocket fuel through tiny pores to cool. Theoretically, putting a fluid between Starship's steel skin and a burning hot plasma, which is generated when it is spilled through atmospheric gases, prevents the vessel from collapse.
Read more : Astronaut Chris Headfield says we could go to Mars decades ago – that's why we are not
But can SpaceX extract a launch system of this unprecedented size and design, says Walt Engelund, an aerospace engineer and Director of the Space Technology and Research Directorate of NASA Langley.
"A large-scale entry, descent, and landing is what NASA called for a decade. We spent a lot of time and paid a lot of attention to how we can do it on Mars," Engelund said. Business Insider. "We landed on the metric point of the Curiosity rover – this is the greatest thing that we have ever laid on the surface of Mars."
To move from the Martian landing of a car-sized robot to a ship sized to a building filled with people, Engelund said it's "a couple of orders" – about 100 times – more difficult than landing the curiosity that he said "this is one of the hardest things we have ever done to NASA. "
"It will not be easy for us or SpaceX," Engelund said.
Why the Star Ship Becomes Heavy Metal Rocket Ship
Musk believes that he can build a self-sufficient city on the red planet 2050 . He wants individual tickets to Mars to be as cheap as a house on Earth, and for return trips – for free.
The Starship-Super Heavy launching system is the way Musk plans to achieve this, and he said that the transition to of stainless steel alloys is a way to reduce costs and build the system faster.
"A star ship will look like liquid silver," Musk said of the change in December, adding that the ship would have a polished surface to repel heat – a literal case of a cool factor.
In an interview with popular mechanics, Musk explained that steel is about 67 times cheaper than lightweight but extremely strong carbon fiber composites, which SpaceX plans to use in September. Steel is also easier to operate than carbon fiber, allows faster prototyping, and gets better than intense heat.
Moreover, according to Mus, the strength of the steel "is increased by 50%" when it touches ultracold liquids, including cryogenic methane and oxygen, which the Star Ship can use to move through space.
Read more : SpaceX tested the Raptor rocket engine with "crazy power" for the missions of the Moon and Mars. The future of Musk can ride on its unsurpassed performance
The problem with steel, however, is that the material is tight and heavy. At the very least, one earlier version of the General Dynamics "Atlas", which was made of metal, is under its own weight in the start-up panel.
However, Musk suggested that the use of steel in SpaceX would be very different and would make the Starship transformed stronger, more durable and less difficult. Ultimately, he says, significant changes will improve the performance of the missile ship over the old design.
"I'm sure the stainless steel ship will be lighter than the advanced aluminum or carbon fiber, through strength to weight against temperature and reduce the need for heat protection," Musk said in January.
But, just as rigid as steel, it is not invincible, especially when it forms the skin of a spacecraft screaming through atmospheric gases.
Sweating and bleeding for survival
A star ship could penetrate the atmosphere of Mars and Earth 19000 km / h . At such speeds, as Musk said, parts of a ship propeller, such as a nose, could have been exposed to a temperature of about 2700 degrees Fahrenheit.
Enough heat to destroy the steel alloy that Musk said that SpaceX can use for the outer skin of Starship. The material, which is called 310S, is often exposed as a heat-resistant metal, since it has a lot of mixed chromium and nickel. (This does not look like steel used in kitchen utensils and pots.) But steel 310S nonetheless begins to react with oxygen and roasts about 2000 degrees and melts in about 2400.
Rocket the ship needs protection from intense heat, therefore, Mus's plans call the body of the Star ship to cool itself using liquid fuel during landing.
Musk said "Popular Mechanics" that he decided to abandon thermal tiles, similar to the space shuttle, in order to preserve weight and avoid the risk of damage or loss of tile.
Read more : This NASA astronaut tried a new spacecraft SpaceX and Boeing – that's what she thinks
Instead, he explained, Star ship "bleed" or rocket fuel from tiny holes in its steel skin, and that the liquid layer will carry with it the burning heat of the atmospheric entrance.
"On the windy side, what I want to do is the world's first regenerative thermal shield." The double-edged stainless steel shell is like a stainless steel sandwich, "Mask said. "You pass either fuel or water between the sandwich layer and then you have micro perforations on the outside – very small perforations – and you essentially bleed the water, or you could bleed the fuel through a micro perforation on the outside. he will see them if you do not come.
He added that the thermal shield would make a double bond with the strengthening of the stellar body of the Star ship.
"As far as I know, this has never been offered before," Mask said. 19659002] Experts told Business Insider that Musk is correct that no space to The aircraft did not go into orbit and did not return to Earth with such a thermal shield, but the concept of sweating or "transpirational" thermal protection is not new, and it has a history of an extremely complicated technical task.
Transpirational cooling for men-months and ICBMs  Musk says the space shuttle launcher will be polished to mirror finish. © Kimi Talvitie
Active "cooling" has existed for millions of years as a skin of mammals. When the temperature of the human body rises too high, for example, microscopic pores supplant sweat. This liquid then evaporates to avoid excess heat and prevent overheating. As for spacecraft for sweating, NASA began playing with a naturally-cooled cooling system before landing astronauts on the moon.
"The idea of cool cooling is not new. It's been a decade," Engelund said. One patent filed by NASA in 1965 suggested the use of urine for astronauts to cool the thermal shield at the bottom of the space capsule. In 2006, the space agency spent at least $ 70,000 on researching an inflatable, heat-shielded transpiration that could help a land-based spacecraft on Mars.
"Sweeping" spacecraft also played a role in the Cold War race. In March 1976, the US Department of Defense conducted a test-release of a cooled transpiration tip for vehicles. Such vehicles return to space on intercontinental ballistic missiles, return to the Earth's atmosphere thousands of kilometers per hour and strike nuclear warheads.
However, according to historic US Air Force documents, the project was canceled later in the 1970s due to limited funding and "design problems that were detrimental to development." Instead, engineers chose simpler "ablative" thermal shields that isolate the vehicle by burning them on a re-entry. Information about problems encountered with protective transpirational thermal shields is mainly classified. But George Herbert, an aerospace engineer who explored the military use of space launch vehicles, told Business Insider in an e-mail message that "Issues reported and known include blocked holes in transpiration." In other words, a challenge that usually encounters teenage skin: clogged pores.
"What to do if a bird spoils your rocket?"
Several experts reported that they were interested in the problem of blocking the design of the heat shield Zorya.
"You can imagine that you do not need much to kill something like this if they were microscopic pores," Engelund said.
Dwayne Day, who helped investigate the loss of NASA's space shuttle with Columbia and its crew, imagined one unexpected scenario with which a star ship would collide anywhere on Earth launch.
"What should I do if a bird clogs your rocket and he will close several holes, and then, when this thing comes back, no coolant does not come out of these holes and this part of the car overheats?" The day was e-mailed to Business Insider.
Engelund said that he had seen problems with clogged cooling systems in tests performed on NASA hypersonic aerodynamic tunnels. During such experiments, large-scale vehicle models that can explode the air thousands of kilometers per hour to learn how they perform are entering the tunnel. Some of the tests are running included heat shields that pump fluid through the channels only under the model skin to cool it, but not all models survived.
"I've seen cases when you get one dead channel … and it will immediately burn," Engelund said. "The model will disappear in a hypersonic aerodynamic tube, it's almost evaporating, it has so much energy and so much heat."
Musk said that the use of methane as a coolant may be better than water.
"Rapid evaporation of water can withstand the intuitive cause of its freezing and blocking of cooling channels," he said .
But Englund also sees problems with methane. Under the influence of high temperatures, carbon atoms in hydrocarbon fuels (for example, methane) can be "cooled" or glued and converted into solids. Such fragments can then block small structures, such as pores.
"I would be very concerned about this," Engelund said, adding that one more major concern would be the impurities in the fuel, which could also lead to slaughter.
One of the possible ways to solve these issues, according to Engelund, may simply be to add more time than it seems necessary, "only if a small percentage of perforations is clogged, or channels flowing through the coolant to these perforations."
In addition to issues such as bird droppings and clogging, there is a fine dust that blows through Mars. It can get into the pores coming from the fuel, and it may be difficult to find and remove those blockages while staying on the red planet.
"Inspection and certification, in general, would be an issue of concern for such a large-scale active system – especially on Mars, where you do not have access to large goats or towers to climb and check," Engelund said. "I think you could
May the star ship take heat?
Musk shared only pieces of the latest design of a star ship and did not introduce a complete picture to the public as he did in the past. (Visualizations shown in this story are lovingly Kimi Talvitie 3D artist.
But Musk said in December that he "would provide detailed explanations in March / April" In anticipation of the successful launch of the prototype "test-hopper" that the company is building in Texas.
Read more : Giant rocket ship SpaceX was damaged by powerful winds in Texas – the nose end was blown up, and Elon Musk said that the repair would take a week
Meanwhile, Musk shared a video (above) that appears to show metal testing Thermal Screen for Starship. It is still unclear how many SpaceX studies performed the concept of transpirational cooling.
"A huge risk if they did not work to qualify and test what they want to do," said Herbert. "But if they did, it could become the real winner for the new design."
If this does not work, Engelund said, this is not necessarily a dead end to the Mask spacecraft.
"He may find that this is not, or too expensive for certification or testing, and he may find a better idea," Engelund said. "He was very good at his career."
SpaceX also expects constant adjustments and changes as engineers are working to make Starship a reality.
"We use the same fast iteration in the design approach, which has succeeded in the programs Falcon 1, Falcon 9, Falcon Heavy and Dragon," – said the representative of Business Insider by e-mail, turning to the company rocket-spacecraft.
But SpaceX rejects any comparison between a spaceship and a NASA ship.
"Curiosity advanced the limits of Mars technology [entry, descent, and landing] of the 1970s, including a parachute-based EDL architecture," SpaceX said. "We adopt a completely different approach, using what we did with Falcon 9, and we have ample opportunity to demonstrate it on Earth before flying to Mars."
Despite the high barriers SpaceX faces in its quest to launch and land on Mars, no expert with whom we spoke, did not say that the SpaceX system was unlikely.
"They surprised a lot of people, and many smart people work for them, and Elon seems to be truly devoted to this," Engelund said. "There may be some things we could do with them. I suspect it will be."


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- Flowers & PlantsVegetables
The Best Corn Seeds of 2024Last updated: Apr 15, 2024
Corn is one of the most consumed crops worldwide, with billions and billions of bushels being grown, sold, and eaten every year. It is a (delicious) staple in many of our diets and an incredibly versatile vegetable that can be processed into a wide array of products, including cornmeal, corn flour, corn syrup, corn oil, and cornstarch. In this article, we’ve gathered together a list of the best corn seeds on the market. The best overall seed goes to Isla’s Garden Corn Hybrid Seeds because of the seeds’ 90% germination rate, large cob potential, and being completely free of GMOs.
Our Top Picks For Corn SeedsView all Contents
- A Buyer's Guide to the Best Corn Seeds
- People Also Asked
- Related Articles
The Best Corn Seeds
These are Honey Select yellow corn hybrid seeds from Isla’s Garden. There are about 50 seeds in each packet and the company guarantees a 90% germination rate. They are perfect for growing in your garden because they are non-GMO and will give you the most organic corn. These corn seeds are expected to bloom in the summer season, and as long you follow the instructions, you can easily plant them on your own. The seeds will produce sweet corn. Maturity period is about 80 days and you need to keep about 4” to 6” space in between the corn seeds.
- Produce Honey Select yellow hybrid corn
- 50 seeds in one packet
- 90% germination rate
- Free from any genetic modification so produce organic corn
- Maturity period is 80 days
- Corn seeds bloom in the summer season
These are hybrid corn seeds that produce two colored “Peaches and Cream” sweet corn. This sweet corn is a favorite of many customers, and it is very easy to grow it in your garden. These corn seeds will grow into very organic corn because the seeds are free from any genetic modification. Each packet contains about 25 seeds, and the expected season for their blooming is summer. Care needs to be taken when planting these seeds because their roots can be damaged by hoeing. It is not recommended to grow tomatoes near the corn seeds, but other vegetables like cucumbers and peas can be grown.
- Two colored hybrid sweet corn is produced from these seeds
- 25 seeds in one packet
- Roots can be damaged so care should be taken
- Free from genetic modification
- Growing tomatoes with corn should be avoided
- Plants that like shade can be grown with corn
The Seed Needs “Peaches and Cream” sweet corn seeds are a perfect addition to your home garden. There are about 230 seeds in one packet and this variety is a bestseller because it is loved by customers. The harvest period is about 80-85 days and they grow to about 6 feet in height and spread about 18 inches. The seeds are non-GMO and the company produces them from open pollinated plants in a temperature controlled facility. The corn produced is creamy to a golden yellow color and is absolutely delicious. Specific instructions about growing them are mentioned on the back of each packet.
- Produce “Peaches and Cream” hybrid sweet corn
- About 230 seeds in each packet
- Easy to follow instructions mentioned on the back of each packet
- 80-85 days maturity period
- Seeds free from genetic modification and prepared in a controlled facility
The Seed Needs “Silver Queen” corn seeds are one of the best in the market for growing at home. The packet consists of about 180 seeds and they can be harvested in about 90 to 100 days. Specific instructions for growing them are mentioned on the back of the packet and all you have to do is follow them to enjoy your own organic sweet white corn. These seeds produce a hybrid variety of corn that is sugary enhanced. You need to sow them at a depth of about 1” under the topsoil, and it is safe to use fertilizer on these corn seeds.
- “Silver Queen” sweet white corn is produced from these seeds
- 180 seeds per packet
- Easy to follow instructions on the back of each packet
- Sugary enhanced hybrid variety of corn seeds
- Seeds need to be planted at about a 1” depth

domain: hobby


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Crews Lake Middle School students and faculty alike were shocked to learn that their much-loved principal, Adam Kennedy, 46 perished Friday while driving into work.
The accident took place just west of U.S. 41 on S.R. 52 a little after 6:30 a.m. Kennedy was following a log truck when the semi-trailer slowed in order to execute a right turn onto the property.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the data they collected at the scene of the accident indicate that Kennedy’s 2005 Dodge truck never slowed and that it slammed into the log truck trailer. Kennedy lost all control of the vehicle, which skidded down the road before ultimately stopping when it struck a fence. Kennedy, who was wearing his seat belt, perished before the emergency crew arrived on the scene.
The investigation indicates that not only did the driver of the log truck, Jason L. Harbarugh, 41, of Wauchula have all the proper safety devices on his rig, but that he was also in full compliance with all Florida State laws. The driver wasn’t injured during the accident.
It took several hours for the accident to be cleaned up, during which time traffic was kept at a virtual standstill.
News of the principle’s death hit the school hard. Spokesperson, Linda Cobbe, struggled to explain the grief everyone connected to the school was feeling and how the school as helping students process and cope with the loss. “We’re devastated,” said school district superintendent, Todd Cluff. “Adam was somebody who led from the heart. He’s former military, always wanting to do things right yet understanding in education there’s not always a clear right … He was an incredible guy and well loved.”
Understanding how difficult it was going to be for everyone, the school district quickly arranged for a full crisis team to be brought to the school. Not only does the crisis team includes several highly-qualified counselors, but it also includes two of the school’s previous principles. Counseling is available to all students and staff members.
The entire Kennedy family is an important part of the Pasco Count school system. Adam was a principle while his wife, Abigail, works for Pasco eSchool as a language arts teacher. The couple’s elementary aged children are students. While police are still investigating the crash, they’re confident that alcohol was not a factor.
Tampa wrongful death lawyer Bill Winters expressed his condolences to Kennedy’s family. “At Winters and Yonker, we are grieving the loss of the cornerstone in our community.” Winters said the family should press to get the answers they are still seeking about the accident. “Stay on top of investigators until you get answers. Not only does this information give you some closure, but it is often key in giving you the ability to pursue a wrongful death settlement in Tampa’s courts.” If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in an accident, Tampa wrongful death attorneys can help you receive compensation for medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering.


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Implantable Lenses- An Alternative to Laser Eye Surgery
Along with RLE, surgically implanted lenses, also referred to as phakic IOLs (intraocular lenses), are a growing option for many individuals that previously did not quality for conventional LASIK or CustomLASIK. The implants work much like a contact lens and even resemble a contact lens; are placed either in front of the iris or behind the iris - depending on the type of vision correction that is the goal of the procedure.
The patient can not fell a an implantable lens and zero maintenance is required. Implantable lenses are a growing alternative to conventional LASIK and also produce equal results in the majority of cases.
There are currently only two FDA-approved implantable lenses available in the United States:Verisyse which is attached to the iris (colored portion of the eye) and Visian ICL which is inserted behind the iris.
For the majority of patients, vision improves instantly.

domain: health


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A FLINTSHIRE farmer and caravan park operator has been appointed new chairman of the FUW’s farm diversification committee.
Eurwyn Roberts (right) lives at Gwrachen Farm, Hendre, Mold, with his wife Janet, sons Delwyn, 21, and Ianto, 16, and daughter Sioned, 13.
He also runs a 150-acre arable and beef unit at Maes Elwy, Trefnant, St Asaph, which has a 15-pitch static caravan site.
He grows 60 acres of barley to feed and house store cattle, mainly Friesian bullocks.
“I used to milk 150 Friesians and call them into the parlour with ‘Come on girls’,” he said.
“Now I say ‘Come on boys’ – and I don’t have to get up early to milk them!”
Delwyn works part-time on the farm and as a builder for a local fireplace installation company.
He also helps his brother Dylan on his farm at Fron, Hendre, where he has a touring caravan site.
He said: “I believe farm diversification is crucial for us as a family and for the whole area.”
Mr Roberts succeeds Deilwen Breese, of Gogarth, Pennal.

domain: agronomy


Cybersecurity issues are becoming a more often and serious struggle for many businesses, no matter the size or the revenue that it generates. Organisations are even more vulnerable to data breaches since the Covid-19 restrictions were put in place and many businesses were forced to work from home. Accessing corporate data and email without the company’s private internet created many opportunities for data breaches. We gathered a few statistics to summerise the current situation in cybersecurity.
- Opposite to the general public’s opinion – small and medium businesses are just as big of cyberattack targets as big corporations. In fact, small businesses may be targeted even more so since they usually do not have the extra data protection layers or full time IT specialist on-premises and often fall for convincing phishing emails.
- With statistics showing that hackers attack approximately every 39s, it only highlights the importance of cybersecurity and that most of the time workers are not aware of their data being compromised.
- The main cyber attack types are hacking, malware and phishing. Organisations must pay extra attention to protection against these types as often they are difficult to notice and are working to compromise data in the background of workers everyday software.
- A shockingly small number of businesses have their files properly protected. Every business that is not completely certain on their cybersecurity level should get in touch with their IT provider and create a security strategy to protect its data.
Welltel is always staying on top of the latest cyber attack trends and provides trusted and tested protection services to ensure that your business can securely operate no matter where or when.


When a Columbia-area teenager was assaulted in June 2011 by several people, the assault and images of the assailants were captured on security video.
The Orangeburg Department of Public Safety now has two surveillance cameras operational in the Russell Street area, an addition officials say is not in response to a problem but a move to prevent one.
“These are the same cameras that have been used in the Columbia Five Points area,” DPS Chief Wendell Davis said. “We got them on a trial basis to see what their effectiveness is. They’re unique in that they cover a 360-degree area.”
The cameras have been up and running for about three months. While they haven’t captured a car chase or an assault such as that against the Columbia teen, police say they’re doing their job.
The hopes are that the extra eyes will serve as a deterrent to crime and as a sort of security blanket for pedestrians and shoppers in that area.
“These things are very obvious, and we want people to know they’re there,” Davis said. “So they do have a deterrent factor associated with them.”
But the cameras also serve as a security measure for pedestrians after dark. Many systems are not effective in the dark, but Davis says these cameras still produce good video even in low-light. That works well for pedestrians and theater-goers who are out in the area late at night. The video is as clear as a daytime shot.
“We thought the installation of cameras would make people feel more secure,” Davis said.
Remote cameras have been in use since World War II when German scientists monitored progress on the V-series rockets. Their usage to monitor the public sector went into larger European cities and New York in the 1960s.
Critics of the camera systems object to government watching a citizen’s every move.
Several organizations keep tabs on the use of surveillance cameras, including Big Brother Watch, a British-based civil liberties group. The group published a report in 2011 of the abuses by law enforcement in England.
Davis points out that security cameras are already used here in both the private and public sector, including home security systems and the cameras found in banks.
Officials say the difference in the Russell Street cameras is they are only monitoring the public sector.
Also, the cameras are not constantly being watched by a live person 24/7. They simply record what’s going on and are available if a particular period of time needs to be reviewed.
“The fact of the matter is that if it’s in the public place, there’s not a right to privacy,” Davis said. “This is the same thing as is in Washington, D.C.; New York, or London.”
The cameras can help identify suspects quickly.
In the Five Points case, the suspects turned themselves in within hours of the video being made public.
Another case that supported the use of cameras in public was in 1993 when 2-year-old James Bulger was kidnapped from a shopping mall. His mutilated body was found two days after he went missing.
Security video at the mall showed two teenagers leading Bulger away from his mother who had been momentarily distracted.
As of now, there are two cameras in Orangeburg. They were placed on Russell Street as a testing area and are subject to being moved, based on crime statistic analysis, officials say.
Negotiations are going on now to obtain several more cameras, including one for the Edisto Memorial Gardens area.
“Ideally, we would love to have more,” Davis said.
Contact the writer: email@example.com or 803-533-5516.


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ST. LOUIS — Contemporary operas about ordinary people crushed by powerful forces they are helpless to control mark another venturesome festival season of the Opera Theatre of St. Louis.
Both "The Grapes of Wrath," by Ricky Ian Gordon and Michael Korie, and "The Trial," by Philip Glass and Christopher Hampton, are in step with a tradition that has held sway for more than four decades at this most enterprising of American regional opera companies. Keeping new works on the boards is important here, witness the fact that St. Louis has presented more American premieres than any other domestic opera producer.
Here were two more, running in repertory at the Loretto-Hilton Center as part of the opera theatre's 42nd opera-in-English season, which also includes Mozart's "La Clemenza di Tito" and Puccini's "Madame Butterfly."
"Grapes of Wrath" was heard in a new performing version by composer Gordon and librettist Korie of their adaptation of John Steinbeck's 1939 Pulitzer and Nobel prizewinning American saga.
First presented by the Minnesota Opera in 2007, the opera has since been boiled down from the three-act, four-hour-plus original version, to an opera in two acts (performed by Northwestern University Opera Theater in 2013) to the further-modified edition St. Louis is presenting. Composer and librettist were in fact making sizable changes to the text and score during the rehearsals.
The result feels tighter and more of a musical and dramatic piece than what I heard at Northwestern, but still true to the dramatic and emotional essentials of the original. The St. Louis production lasts just under three hours (including one intermission), gaining crucial intimacy in the compact, 924-seat theater, with its thrust stage.
Gordon's eclectic score adds an unmistakably American flavor to the tragic odyssey of the Joad family, dispossessed tenant farmers in Depression-era Oklahoma, who flee the Dust Bowl to seek a better life in the would-be promised land of California. They pack up their meager belongings in a rusty jalopy and head off down Route 66. It is along this "plenty road" where their American dream dies.
Gordon's music, a patchwork of musical Americana, gives memorable lyrical flight to plain-spoken lyrics that coalesce into set pieces flowing easily one to the next. The Coplandesque fields of diatonic harmony in the orchestra are as open as the prairie skies. Echoes of art song, Sondheim, Weill, blues, jazz and other elements reference the music of Steinbeck's America. But the voice that emerges most clearly is Gordon's own.
Whether in tender ariosos, wistful ensembles or powerful choruses, his music goes straight to the heart of the pain, suffering, fleeting happiness, immense loss and, finally, compassion, these hapless characters experience. This is a great American opera to stand alongside earlier evocations of specifically American periods and subjects by George Gershwin, Carlisle Floyd, Robert Ward, John Adams and others.
I could not imagine a better production than the one directed by OTSL artistic director James Robinson, nor is there a weak link in the ensemble of 34 singers, almost all of them taking multiple roles. The orchestra (made up of members of the St. Louis Symphony) and chorus perform with strength and dedication under conductor Christopher Allen. Allen Moyer's set and James Schuette's costumes suggest a contemporary take on iconic Thomas Hart Benton paintings of the Dust Bowl era.
Amid the large cast, Katharine Goeldner stands out in the pivotal role of Ma Joad, the matriarch determined to keep the family together regardless of circumstance. There is outstanding work as well from Tobias Greenhalgh as the hotheaded elder son Tom Joad; Robert Orth, recreating his original role as the crusty Uncle John; Geoffrey Agpalo as the lapsed preacher Jim Casy; and Hugh Russell as the mentally challenged son Noah Joad. Deanna Breiwick and Andrew Lovato bring sentimental counterforce to their love duet, "One Star."
I await the time Chicago Opera Theater takes up "Grapes of Wrath."
Philip Glass' 26th opera is the first stage work by the prolific American composer to be undertaken by the St. Louis company. These initial American performances of the music theater piece he and librettist Hampton based on Franz Kafka's grimly prophetic 1914 novel re-create the world premiere production by director Michael McCarthy that was introduced by a consortium of European companies, including the Covent Garden and Scottish Opera, in 2014.
Billed as "a comic opera in two acts," this dystopian nightmare is more grotesque than funny. The protagonist is Josef K. (the charismatic baritone Theo Hoffman), an innocent who's arrested on unexplained charges and buffeted among various bureaucrats he hopes can help him win his case. But since they are part of the same corrupt system that has condemned him, his fate is preordained.
On the face of it, Glass' minimalist musical style would seem to be a natural for a story predicated on detachment and repetitive process. But it doesn't take long for the listener to discover that those Glassian Xeroxed arpeggios, chugging ostinatos and churning syncopations provide no dramatic shape, no musical characterization, no emotional catharsis. They are merely a gloss on a series of absurdist episodes.
The vocal writing is speech-driven recitative, leaving the orchestra to supply whatever musical interest there is. Apart from an arresting trumpet-led interlude leading up to the final scene, the music sounds like boilerplate Glass.
Director McCarthy tries to liven up a humorless libretto by throwing in flashes of raunchy sex and other grotesque fillips. Sinister voyeurs observe the action, the bowler-hatted bureaucrats who torment K. sport identical fake beards, the women have physical defects. At least the sparse set and monochrome costume designs of Simon Banham are ideal for this icy opera.
An excellent, hard-working cast does what it can to make "The Trial" work, under the tight-as-clockwork conducting of Carolyn Kuan. Along with Hoffman's sympathetic K., there are fine performances in multiple roles by Susannah Biller, Sofia Selowsky, Brenton Ryan, Keith Phares and Matthew Lau.
Far more engrossing was the OTSL production of Mozart's penultimate work for the stage – billed as, simply, "Titus." Conductor Stephen Lord chose it for his final appearances as the company's music director before taking on the title of music director emeritus, as of 2018. His abiding belief in the piece showed in the stylish vitality he brought to a long-neglected masterpiece.
Director Stephen Lawless' handsome and intelligent staging updates the narrative to roughly the time of the opera's hasty composition (1791), with period costuming and an open playing area over which was suspended a large eagle sculpture symbolizing emperor Titus' power over Rome. After a plot to dethrone Titus sets the Roman capitol ablaze, the eagle lies in pieces at his feet. He must then decide whether to condemn or exonerate Sesto, the trusted friend who sought his death.
"Titus" makes a splendid showcase for several star graduates of Lyric Opera's Ryan Opera Center who have gone onto international fame. Rene Barbera, a first-rate Mozart tenor, rises nobly to Titus' virtuosic final aria. Cecelia Hall, who sang the secondary role of Annio in Lyric's 2014 production of the opera, looks suitably androgynous and sings triumphantly as Sesto, a role difficult to bring off convincingly. The power-hungry Vitellia is brilliantly taken by another Ryan alumna, Laura Wilde, whose technique is more than equal to the murderously wide vocal leaps.
Emily D'Angelo and Monica Dewey blend voices beautifully in the duet of Annio and Servilia, although D'Angelo bears down too hard on the aria in which the nobleman pleads for Sesto's life. Matthew Stump portrays the Roman prefect Publio. Daniel Dooner's faithful translation comes across clearly, thanks to the singers' fine diction.
The 2018 festival season will include the world premiere of a revised version of "An American Soldier," by Huang Ruo and David Henry Hwang; Gluck's "Orfeo and Euridice"; Marc Blitzstein's "Regina," starring Susan Graham and James Morris; and Verdi's "La Traviata," marking the directorial debut of soprano Patricia Racette.

domain: entertainment