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Guitarist Vinny Johnson plays all around Santa Cruz County at jams, gigs and festivals.
Musician Vinny Johnson talks about the role of music in community
APTOS — In the fourth grade, Vinny Johnson began his musical education on the trumpet.
More of a rock and roller, when he found guitar two years later, he said it just felt "more me." And thus his lifelong journey to find the funk began.
"It just means everything to me," he said. "I mean, I've been doing it ever since I was a kid and I'm 44 now. It was definitely a defining moment when I got my guitar."
Sporting a shirt reading "without music, life would be flat," Johnson said music creates a conversation and dialogue that brings people together.
"Music affects everybody in a positive way, I mean you can say you don't like that song, but everybody has a song that touches them," he said. "It's their go-to song or it's in their car all the time and I think that is what brings people together. It is the best message of music."
Johnson started out playing gigs in Santa Cruz County at the Windjammer, having moved to Aptos in 2000. Now closed, Johnson plays all around the county at local venues such as Zelda's, the Crow's Nest, the Pocket and more.
"I'll play anywhere, with anybody," he said with a laugh.
But playing requires an audience, and where many musicians can find an audience by playing at local bar or food venues, public knowledge of live music falls short. For people looking for live music, Johnson said he thinks there is a disconnect between musicians and the public.
"I think you have to go out and seek live music," he said. "You can see just as good as music, even better music, for free in your own town — I just don't think people know."
Instead, he said that most people who don't frequent bars pay upwards to $100 to listen to someone they heard on the radio.
To raise awareness, Johnson and others have begun to advertise their gigs on social media websites such as Facebook or websites like Reverb Nation, but he said that does not help reach the people who have distanced themselves from the bar scene.
"The problem is a lot of people, they don't want to go to a bar, they don't want to be in a bar scene," he said.
Part of the solution is something he praises the county for — the number of music festivals and family friendly events that feature local musicians. But beyond the limiting bar scene he said the disconnect also is because it takes work.
"It's because people feel it's a hassle," he said. "You have to go out and seek the music you want to hear. You have to be vigilant and sometimes you gotta drive — leave town, get out of your own area and find something."
Lack of awareness and promotion also means a person might miss a show simply because they were not aware of it. While Johnson said the best thing to do is follow the bands you like and show up early to see headliners you might not have been aware of, he also said it is worth it to step out of their comfort zone to listen to new music.
While many struggle and work day jobs to support their passion, Johnson said he thinks they have a wonderful scene here.
"It doesn't pay much, you do it because you love it, so if you see someone playing at a bar or playing for tips, they are not getting paid a lot," he said. "It's a meager means but I don't know a musician who would do it for the money. As my friend TJ always says, 'Yes, be a musician and you too can make hundreds of dollars a year.'"
Citing a music rich culture, he said he would like to see more people come out and support local musicians and more bands come in from out of town. But he said he is happy.
"I think we are on the right track where we are," he said. "But I guess more money would be great."
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Due to unfortunate life events I had 3 of my pups returned to me. This is why I have return agreements and I'm also glad that the people have been honest enough to honor them. That being said I have these beautiful pups available. They are all from the same litter, they are St Bernard, Rottweiler and Amstaff mix. They were born on October 11, 2014 they are now 8 months old. ...
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By Jeff Abramson and Izabella Czejdo
Both chambers of the U.S. Congress recently passed resolutions to prohibit U.S. military involvement in the war in Yemen, a rebuke to the Trump administration's approach of supporting the Saudi-led coalition fighting there. Due to differences in the resolutions, the House needs to act again, after which a presidential veto is expected.
In 2018, 56 senators approved a War Powers Act resolution directing the president to remove U.S. forces from hostilities in or affecting Yemen, unless directed at al Qaeda or associated groups. Steps taken by the Republican-controlled House prevented a vote on that chamber's version of the resolution. (See ACT, January/February 2019.) This year, the House took up a new resolution, approving it in a 248–177 vote on Feb. 28. Eighteen Republicans joined 230 Democrats in passing the resolution.
The Senate passed its War Powers Act resolution March 13 by a 54–46 vote, with seven Republicans joining all Democrats and independents in supporting the measure. Last-second changes to the House version to include language on anti-Semitism means that the House must reconsider the Senate version. The House is expected to vote on the Senate version soon, but the vote has not yet been scheduled.
President Donald Trump is expected to veto the resolution should it come to his desk. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo offered support March 15 for the Saudi-led coalition in the context of Iran. “The Trump administration fundamentally disagrees that curbing our assistance to the Saudi-led coalition” is the way to end the conflict, he told a press conference. “If you truly care about Yemeni lives, you’d support the Saudi-led effort to prevent Yemen from turning into a puppet state of the corrupt, brutish Islamic Republic of Iran.”
Support for the coalition has become increasingly controversial, especially after February reports that U.S. weapons supplied to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates had been handed to al Qaeda-linked militias in Yemen. During a March debate, Sens. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Robert Menendez (D-N.J.) flagged these concerns, with Menendez saying, “In addition to the horrifying humanitarian crisis, we’ve also learned that U.S. coalition partners may be transferring U.S.-origin weapons to known—underline known—terrorist organizations.”
The Trump administration takes “all allegations of misuse of U.S.-origin defense articles very seriously,” a State Department official told Arms Control Today March 20. The official reiterated the U.S. position that there is no military solution to the Yemen conflict and that “we expect all recipients of U.S.-origin defense equipment to abide by their end-use obligations and not retransfer equipment without prior U.S. government authorization.”
Congress may act to restrict arms transfers to Saudi Arabia, impose sanctions, and stop air-to-air aircraft refueling for Saudi-led coalition aircraft, according to a bipartisan measure introduced by Menendez with six co-sponsors. Legislation in the House sponsored by Rep. Jim McGovern (D-Mass.) seeks to prohibit further arms sales to Saudi Arabia and has 27 co-sponsors.


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domain: design


Agriculture has always been a crucial sector for human beings as it provides the fundamental needs of life. With the continuous growth of population, there is an increasing need to produce more food to meet the demand. However, traditional methods of crop monitoring and analysis can be time-consuming, labor-intensive, and costly, which can lead to inefficiencies and reduced yields.
This is where drones come in. Drones, also known as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), have been revolutionizing the way we monitor and analyze crops. With their advanced technology and capabilities, drones have become an essential tool for farmers to improve their crop management and increase their yields.
In this article, we will explore the various ways drones are revolutionizing crop monitoring and analysis, and how they are changing the agriculture industry.
Improved Efficiency and Cost Savings
One of the most significant benefits of using drones for crop monitoring and analysis is the improved efficiency and cost savings. Drones can cover large areas of farmland quickly and efficiently, which reduces the time and resources needed for crop monitoring. This leads to cost savings for farmers and allows them to allocate resources to other areas of their farm.
Real-time Crop Monitoring
Another benefit of using drones for crop monitoring is the ability to obtain real-time data. Drones can capture high-resolution images of crops, which can be used to detect any abnormalities or changes in the crops. This allows farmers to take immediate action to address any issues before they become a more significant problem.
Drones also allow for precision farming, which involves the use of technology to optimize crop yields and reduce waste. Drones can be equipped with various sensors and cameras that can detect changes in soil conditions, moisture levels, and other environmental factors. This data can be used to create precise maps of the farmland, which can then be used to guide planting, fertilizing, and harvesting activities.
Reduced Environmental Impact
Drones also have a positive impact on the environment. Traditional crop monitoring methods can require the use of large machinery, which can cause soil compaction and other environmental damage. Drones, on the other hand, are lightweight and do not cause any damage to the soil. This makes them an environmentally friendly option for crop monitoring and analysis.
Challenges and Limitations
While drones have numerous benefits for crop monitoring and analysis, there are also some challenges and limitations to consider. One of the most significant limitations is the battery life of drones. Most drones can only fly for a limited amount of time before they need to be recharged. This can be a challenge when monitoring large areas of farmland.
Another challenge is the need for skilled operators. Flying a drone requires skill and expertise, which means that farmers may need to hire trained professionals or invest in training their employees.
Drones are revolutionizing crop monitoring and analysis, and their impact on the agriculture industry is significant. With improved efficiency, real-time crop monitoring, precision farming, and reduced environmental impact, drones have become an essential tool for farmers. However, challenges and limitations must be considered, such as battery life and the need for skilled operators.
As the agriculture industry continues to grow and evolve, drones are likely to become even more critical for crop monitoring and analysis. Farmers who invest in drone technology and training will be able to improve their crop management, increase their yields, and stay ahead of the competition.


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Preheat oven to 150 °C.
Grease and line the base and sides of a 22 cm springform tin.
Combine biscuit crumbs and melted spread and press into the base of the tin. Chill for at least 20 mins.
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Pour mixture into prepared tin and bake for 45 minutes until slightly wobbly in the centre.
Allow to cool with oven door ajar, then chill for few hrs.
Decorate with fresh berries and serve.

domain: food


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By Daniel Howat
“Black Panther” was the highest grossing film in America in 2018, and received overwhelming critical acclaim. Culturally, the film made a huge, lasting impact for representation on screen. Because of all of these elements, “Black Panther” has received a legendary awards push from Disney and Marvel. That push has poised “Black Panther” to break new ground not only for Marvel but superhero films as a whole. Let’s look back at the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s history at the Academy Awards, category-by-category.
The franchise has raked in the money over the years, but the MCU hasn’t had a great deal of success at the Academy Awards. From ten total Oscar nominations, the franchise has netted zero wins. “Iron Man” and “Guardians of the Galaxy” are the only MCU films nominated for more than one Oscar, with two nominations each.
BEST VISUAL EFFECTS
This is the only category that has seen repeated nominations for MCU films. Out of 17 films released prior to 2018, eight scored nominations for Best Visual Effects:
That means that less than half of MCU films received nominations here. When you look at the films that missed out on nominations, like all three “Thor” films, “Ant-Man” and more, it’s actually a little surprising. It’s a category generally filled with blockbusters, and there are few more popular blockbusters than these.
The category itself has changed since the start of the MCU. In 2008, when “Iron Man” was nominated, Best Visual Effects allowed a maximum of three nominees. The Academy expanded that category in 2010 to allow five nominees.
For the most part, each of these films lost to either Best Picture nominees or more “high caliber” films…
“Iron Man” lost to Best Picture nominee “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button”
“Iron Man 2” lost to Best Picture nominee “Inception”
“The Avengers” lost to Best Picture nominee “Life of Pi”
“Iron Man 3” lost to Best Picture nominee “Gravity”
“Captain America: The Winter Soldier” and “Guardians of the Galaxy” lost to “Interstellar”
“Doctor Strange” lost to “The Jungle Book”
“Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2” lost to “Blade Runner 2049“
“Interstellar” and “Blade Runner 2049,” while not Best Picture nominees scored multiple nominations, and weren’t your typical blockbuster fare. “The Jungle Book,” only nominated for Best Visual Effects, is the only film to beat an MCU with fewer than five nominations.
Overall, it’s a little surprising that “Spider-Man 2” is the only superhero film to win the Oscar for Best Visual Effects. The original “Superman” was also given a special achievement award for visual effects.
In 2018 Marvel has three shots at winning this category, with “Black Panther,” “Avengers: Infinity War,” and “Ant-Man and the Wasp,” all of which landed on the Visual Effects shortlist of ten films. It’s pretty safe to count out “Ant-Man and the Wasp,” considering the first film didn’t land here, and it’s massively overshadowed by the other two films. “Avengers: Infinity War” is a very safe bet for its massive scale and extensive effects work. “Black Panther,” though it’s receiving a large campaign, is only a somewhat safe bet. The visual effects aren’t generally well-liked, despite the passion for the film as a whole. Specific sequences, like the train sequence in the climactic battle, look fairly rubbery compared to other Marvel films. Still, it’s likely to land here. If it does, “Black Panther” could still have a significant shot to win because of its high profile and likely other nominations, something “Avengers: Infinity War” won’t have.
BEST SOUND EDITING
More surprising than the fact that superhero films haven’t done very well in Best Visual Effects is the fact that they’ve done even worse in the Sound categories. Clearly, the sound branch isn’t a big fan of the sound work in the MCU.
“Iron Man” scored a Best Sound Editing nomination in 2008, where it lost to “The Dark Knight.” Those are the last two superhero films to score nominations in either sound categories. The “Transformers” franchise has more nominations here than the MCU.
This might not change this year. “Black Panther” has a shot at a nomination here, but it’s hovering between the fifth and six slots. If the film overperforms, it could land MCU’s second nomination in the category.
BEST MAKEUP AND HAIRSTYLING
“Guardians of the Galaxy” is one of the few superhero films to score a nomination for its Makeup, joining “Batman Returns,” “The Dark Knight,” “Hellboy II,” and eventual winner “Suicide Squad.” That’s right, the DC Extended Universe got an Oscar before the MCU did. Alien effects do very well in this category, which apparently helped DC more than Marvel.
“Black Panther” is in very good shape to score a nomination here. It landed on the shortlist of seven contenders. If nominated, it stands a very high chance of winning.
Those are the only three categories that Marvel films have ever been nominated for, but we think “Black Panther” will change that.
No, of course, no MCU film has been nominated for Best Picture. In fact, no superhero film has ever been nominated for Best Picture. Only a few have come somewhat close.
2008, the first year of the MCU, was also the year of “The Dark Knight.” While the Batman film scored a whopping eight nominations (and two wins), many were shocked that the film missed out on a Best Picture nomination, which still only had five nominees. This would help propel the Academy the following year to expand the Best Picture category from five nominees to ten.
Since the expansion, only two superhero films have scored Producer’s Guild of America award nominations: “Wonder Woman” and “Black Panther.” “Wonder Woman” was a cultural phenomenon that came dangerously close to a Best Picture nomination. “Black Panther’s” cultural impact seems even greater than that of “Wonder Woman.” After the PGA, SAG Ensemble, Golden Globe Best Picture – Drama, and plenty more, no superhero film, except perhaps “The Dark Knight,” has stood a better chance of scoring a Best Picture nomination. Expect “Black Panther” to be the first this year.
OTHER AWARDS AND FUTURE
No actor has ever come close to an acting nomination for any Marvel film as of yet, and only Heath Ledger has ever been nominated for a superhero film (and he won, of course). This year, Michael B. Jordan hopes to follow a similar trajectory for his beloved villainous turn as Killmonger in “Black Panther.” Many are predicting him to land in Best Supporting Actor this year. It’s not guaranteed, as he missed many precursor nominations, but Jordan has a high profile and could make it in.
In 2014, “Guardians of the Galaxy” received a WGA Best Adapted Screenplay nomination, a major precursor to the Oscar. Unfortunately, that didn’t make the cut. “Logan” became the first superhero film to ever be nominated for either of the screenplay Oscars, receiving a nomination last year for Best Adapted Screenplay. “Black Panther” could break in here, making Ryan Coogler an Oscar nominee. Still, it’s fighting tough competition in the category.
“Black Panther” has a shot at breaking into plenty of other categories for the first time in the MCU. Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s song “All The Stars” landed on the Best Original Song shortlist.
Ruth Carter’s Costume Design still stands as some of the best of the year, and should easily be nominated. It would be the first superhero film nominated. The world-building Production Design feels safe for a nomination too, where it would join “The Dark Knight” & “Batman” (which won this category in 1989) as one of the few superhero films nominated. Ludwig Göransson’s hip-hop infused score faces tough competition but could make it in after landing on the shortlist there. If the film really overperforms, it could land nominations across the board, even in Editing and Cinematography, but those feel less likely.
Despite the expansion of Best Picture to ten nominees (and now 8-10), the Academy Awards still aren’t a spot where blockbusters find much success. While they may try to pander to those upset about this with the creation of the Best Popular Film category, “Black Panther” proves that it’s truly unnecessary. Though there is plenty to complain about during this 2018 Oscar season, we’re watching history unfold. “Black Panther” is breaking new ground for the Marvel Cinematic Universe, but it’s also breaking new ground for how superhero films are viewed culturally. This awards recognition can go a long way toward elevating how we talk about blockbusters, treating them as more than simple popcorn fare. Studios will hopefully take notice, and give us more films like “Black Panther” that transcend the genre. Let’s keep hoping for a groundbreaking morning tomorrow for “Black Panther.”
Do you think “Black Panther” will receive a Best Picture nomination tomorrow? How many nominations do you think it will get? Take a look at our final predictions for tomorrow here and let us know in the comments section below or on our Twitter account.
You can follow Daniel and hear more of his thoughts on the Oscars and Film on Twitter at @howatdk


We are going to be cutting Aermet 100 for the first time, and could use some guidance. For these parts, the minimum fillet doesn't go below R.125 at about a 1.00 LoC, so we can get away with a 1/4" endmill for the whole length. From what I've gathered on eng-tips, some folks are doing 300SFM at about .002/tooth, but I don't know for what machine/tools/etc. We will be doing all the work in an Okuma vertical mill that has been proven to work well for 4340M at around 55HRC.
Does anyone have any experience with this stuff?
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People Are Upset Khloé Kardashian and Scott Disick Made a ‘KKK’ Joke
The Keeping Up With the Kardashians stars received lots of heat after posting a “distasteful” and “offensive” meme that joked about the KKK.
Khloé posted (then deleted) the meme, which shows Kim, Kourtney and Khloé Kardashian all decked out in white dresses and smiling at the camera with the caption: “The only KKK to ever let black men in.”
Disick included his two cents into the mix, adding “And a Jew” to his post on Instagram, which still remains up. Khloé has since removed the meme from her Instagram page, though it’s still on Twitter.
Luckily the spotlight was taken off their iffy joke when Kim came to the rescue and shared a photo of her bare butt on the cover of Paper magazine.
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domain: celebrity


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This back country ski was highly recommended to me. It can be done on the exit day from a trip higher up the Tasman Glacier neves. This ski tour has been claimed to maybe be the finest New Zealand ski tour. It offers a huge 1400m ski descent from a 3000m peak. The route is continuous and in parts reasonably steep. The exit couloir to the summit ridge of Mt Hamilton is between 35 and 40 degrees. There is obviously glacier travel involved and so crampons, ice axe, crevasse extraction equipment and all the usual gear are required. Continue reading 'Ski Mt Hamilton, Mt Cook NP ski tour'»
Category: Mt Cook
One of the most popular ski tours in the Mt Cook National Park. The Fritz range leads in a NW direction from the main divide of the Southern Alps out towards the Tasman Ocean, parallel to the Franz Joseph Glacier. The Range holds its altitude the length of the Franz Gl, and so involves passing over several peaks. The Fritz range ends with a descent to the Franz Gl terminus.
This was a lovely 3 day ski telemark trip in the Ahuriri Valley. Mt Barth makes for a good adventure ski tour with long fall line skiing and varied terrain. It really stands out from the rest of the range as a large massif that holds a its heavy coating of snow well. We skied this in late October as a mini ski expedition of 3 days.. Continue reading 'A back country ski traverse of Mt Barth and Mt Heim'»

domain: travel


Presentation on theme: "Technical Advancements: The Cost of Progress Transport by Land: Tay Bridge, 1879."— Presentation transcript:
Technical Advancements: The Cost of Progress Transport by Land: Tay Bridge, 1879
Tay Bridge, 1879 Lesson Objectives: Investigate the technological advancement in railway bridge construction Realise that sometimes there is a heavy price to pay for advancements in technology and that lessons must be learnt
Tay Bridge, 1879 Listen to this poem and write in the back of your books any important facts about the disaster.
Tay Bridge, 1879 Task: Listen to the poem and try and jot down important facts about the Tay Bridge Disaster, 1879. Note – When he says 90 lives were lost, it is now estimated to have been around 75.
Tay Bridge 1879 In the 19 th century, the people of Britain took pride in their technological achievements. Britain’s railway system led the world. In 1879, the Victorian’s confidence in British technology was further boosted by the opening of a bridge across the River Tay in Scotland.
Tay Bridge 1879 At 3km in length, it was the world’s longest bridge. 1822 - 1880 Queen Victoria herself travelled across the bridge knighted its designer, Thomas Bouch, on the spot!
Tay Bridge 1879 The Tay Bridge was a remarkable engineering achievement – or so it seemed.
The Tay Bridge disaster occurred during a violent storm on 28 th December 1879 when the first Tay Rail Bridge collapsed while a train was passing over it from Wormit to Dundee. The train crashed into the river killing all aboard. To this day, the Tay Bridge disaster remains the worst railway disaster in British history. Tay Bridge 1879
Activity: Watch the short documentary on the Tay Bridge disaster. What do these images and documentary suggest about the horror of the tragedy? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zg4cG1CZHjI
THEORY A Bill Dow – Theory A: Train “The rear carriages of the train derailed and ran into one of the cover plates. The force of this impact would shatter the cast iron lugs – leaving the bridge in a high wind without its proper structural support”. The girder closest to Wormit, in the high girder section of the bridge, had bent during the lifetime of the bridge. The girder had been dropped during construction and bent. It was straightened out and reused, but over time it returned to the bent shape. As a result, the rail tracks that ran over it developed a kink. This kink, combined with the high wind, may have been responsible for the train derailment. Tay Bridge 1879
THEORY B Tony Martin – Theory B: Wind “The disaster was investigated using modern computer analysis in conjunction with a modern approach to wind loading. The bridge was examined with and without the train to see what effect on the performance of the pier structure. And a pier was analysed under various load conditions with a view to proposing a mechanism for collapse of the navigation piers”. The bridge was simply not strong enough to withstand the strength of the wind that night. Although the presence of the train does affect structure, even without the train the bridge would have fallen that night. Tay Bridge 1879
THEORY C Peter Lewis – Theory C: Bridge Fatigue “It was almost certainly the dynamic effects of the bridge itself well before the disaster that brought the bridge down. These led to gradual deterioration of the ironwork supporting the high girders”. On the night of the storm, the bridge piers were no longer capable of supporting the load of the train. Within that, fatigue and cracks in the bridge probably played an important role. Tay Bridge 1879
Task: Use the handout with the three possible theories for why the Tay Bridge collapsed. You have to choose ONE theory from the three and write a short answer on why you agree with that theory. Also try and think about what you learnt from watching the documentary. This activity forces you to make a decision and argue your point.
I think theory ____(A,B or C) is the correct theory to help explain why the Tay Bridge collapsed because___________(include a couple of reasons/ explanations to support your argument) Task: Tay Bridge 1879
Tay Bridge 1879 So, why do you think the Tay Bridge collapsed? 8L vote 8L vote
What Lessons Were Learnt? All Bouch's bridges were examined and reinforced or rebuilt.
What Lessons Were Learnt? Steel was approved by the Board of Trade for use in bridges. Designs using cast iron columns were barred.
What Lessons Were Learnt? Regular and frequent inspections of bridges were made during and following construction by Board of Trade personnel.
What Lessons Were Learnt? A new Tay Bridge was built adjacent and parallel to the original bridge reusing undamaged girders with some modifications. The new bridge is over twice the width to allow double rail tracks and greater lateral stability. Piers in the centre were built from wrought iron lattice work and steel. Original pier platforms were retained to act as breakwaters for the new bridge. New piers were tested by static loading for settlement. The building was started in 1881 and finished in 1885.
What Lessons Were Learnt? A Royal Commission on "Wind Pressure on Railway Structures" was set up in 1881. Members of the Commission included W H Barlow, G Stokes and W Yolland. An extensive survey of wind speeds and pressures using anemometers was undertaken at numerous locations. Examples of overturned carriages by wind action were examined. A maximum wind pressure of 56 per square foot for design of bridges and rules for applying this specification to bridges of different construction were recommended.


Toronto’s ideaBOOST media and technology startup accelerator announced its latest cohort of six companies yesterday. The program takes place at the Canadian Film Centre’s Media Lab (CFC Media Lab).
The swanky ceremony was hosted by CBC’s award-winning host of “Q”, Jian Ghomeshi, while the six companies graduating from ideaBOOST’s previous cohort pitched their products to a crowd of investors and entrepreneurs at the Steam Whistle Brewing Company in Toronto.
The six participating companies in the fall 2013 ideaBOOST program are:
1. Bublcam, a consumer-ready camera that captures a 360° panoramic view through spherical photos and videos.
2. L.A.R.G.E. Location-based AR Gaming Engine, a tool kit for the creation of location-based and augmented reality experiences.
3. RadioMogul, a platform for people to create, customize and curate their own monetizable Internet radio station.
4. Think Dirty, a mobile app that makes reading beauty and body care product labels simple, easy and fun.
5. uMentioned, a location app that allows you to anonymously flirt and make new friends with people nearby.
6. Weirdwood Manor, a unique storytelling experience—a novel brought to life through interaction and animation.
“The companies vying for entry into ideaBOOST are now mostly enabling technology firms that are trying to disrupt the entertainment business,” says Ana Serrano, Chief Digital Officer, CFC. “We are thrilled by the platforms and apps developed in our second cohort and have very high expectations for their success. Mean time, we enthusiastically welcome the next six companies to join the ideaBOOST community and make their bid to become digital entertainment rock stars in their own right.”
Some of the products pitched from the previous ideaBOOST cohort were Wondereur, a Gwyneth Paltrow-endorsed story-driven ecommerce platform for selling contemporary art and instaRadio, the Launch Festival “one to watch” app that lets anyone stream audio anywhere, anytime. Also launching are AlertTV, Lightning Platform, Bemused, and Motion Panels.
Launch Pad attendees also received a sneak peek at the five winning companies of the ideaBOOST/Mind Pirate Production Lab. They were among the first to create wearable tech games and apps using Mind Pirate’s Callisto platform. The ideaBOOST/Mind Pirate Production Lab made a call for applicants in early October, and the three-month program is now coming to a close. The apps were developed for the likes of Google Glass, Samsung Gear and Pebble Smartwatch, the “next consumer mega trend of wearable technology.”
The winning companies will be formally revealed today at the Canadian Innovation Exchange (CIX), taking place at the MaRS Discovery District in Toronto.
ideaBOOST identifies early stage companies in the media and technology industry that are ready to take advantage of the accelerator process and the relationship building that ideaBOOST believes “is essential to become market- or investorready in today’s competitive media market ecosystem.” Through a four-month, part-time prototype development and audience engagement boot camp, ideaBOOST enables participants to build successful products and sustainable companies that stay in Canada and build employment.
Meanwhile, the Canadian Film Centre’s Media Lab (CFC Media Lab) provides a unique training, research and production think-tank environment for new media content developers, practitioners and companies. It was created it 1997. An internationally acclaimed and award-winning facility, graduates of the CFC Media Lab emerge as leaders in the world of interactive media, produce innovative projects and start up 21st century companies.


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sun&more incredible bronzer 125 ml
For both face and body, it instantly gives a healthy, safe, sun kissed glow. The fine mist covers skin perfectly and evenly for an instant, natural effect, without staining. It’s different to other self-tanning products: it doesn’t create an orange tan and has a delicate, pleasant fragrance. Contains organic aloe vera juice.
Use: apply to clean skin, keeping at approx. 20 cm from skin. Begin over the head and slowly descend over the area of skin to be tanned. Should there be an excess of product, remove gently and pat skin. For best results, apply every 2-3 days. Wash hands after use.

domain: health


A proposal to create a Town Centre Manager position has been approved in principle by Alsager Town Council. A call for the creation of the role was put forward by the Alsager Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group (ANSPG) based on extensive feedback from residents’ surveys and local businesses. It included estimated costs and a draft job description and person specification. The bid defined the key objective as, ‘to achieve a vibrant, prosperous and sustainable town centre, a civic space where people go for an experience, becoming the hub of the Alsager community in which its residents take pride.’
The proposal drew on research from other towns and cited the Grimsey Review 2 of July 2018 which identifies the changing nature of Britain’s high streets. As traditional retail outlets are joined or replaced by dining, leisure and other services there is a need to manage the process of change. The Mary Portas review of 2011 on the future of high streets recommended the appointment of town centre managers as a key to their successful development.


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When focused on wellness, many MedShadow Foundation readers understand the importance of natural products. As we strive to avoid the harmful side effects of medication, natural wellness options can be a useful source of nutrients or healing factors.
What Is Black Seed Oil Good For?
One such remedy that has caught on in recent years is the use of black seed oil. This oil has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its various health benefits. In this article, we will explore what black seed oil is, its history, and its potential benefits for body systems, such as the skin, hair, weight loss, and immune system support.
Black seed oil is rich in antioxidants, which have been found to benefit health in a number of ways.
What Is Black Seed Oil?
What is black seed oil made from? Black seed oil is pressed from the seeds of a flowering shrub called Nigella sativa. The black seed oil is rich in thymoquinone, which is a compound that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Initial studies have shown its benefits in fighting cancer.
It also contains other essential fatty acids, including linoleic and oleic acids, which are important for maintaining healthy skin and hair. You may see black seed oil also called “Nigella sativa” directly, or also “black cumin” oils.
Where Do I Find Pure Black Seed Oil?
Black seed oil is available in both liquid and capsule form and can be found in health food stores or online. It is important to find trusted and reliable sources for your oil. Search for high quality and organic black seed oil. Try to find 100% pure black seed oil, or search the terms “therapeutic grade.” While the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not test supplements for safety or efficacy, it is a product the organization labels as “generally safe.”
Another great tactic is to seek Black Seed Oil that is certified by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. USDA certified oils. This means that the oil is confirmed by the USDA to be 100% organic and natural. MedShadow offers more advice on selecting safe supplements here.
The History of Black Seed Oil
The black seed oil has a long history of use in traditional medicine. It was first mentioned in the Bible as a remedy for digestive issues and was also used by ancient Egyptians for its healing properties. In Islamic medicine, the black seed oil is referred to as the “remedy for all diseases” and was used to treat a variety of conditions, including:
- respiratory issues
- digestive problems
- and skin conditions
Today, black seed oil is still used in many parts of the world for its various health benefits.
Black Seed Oil Benefits for Skin
Black seed oil has a number of potential benefits for the skin. Its anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce redness and swelling, making it a great remedy for acne and other skin conditions. It also has moisturizing properties that can help hydrate the skin, leaving it looking and feeling soft and supple. Additionally, black seed oil has been shown to have anti-aging properties, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
To use black seed oil for the skin, simply apply a small amount to the affected area and massage it gently into the skin. You can also mix it with other oils or skincare products to enhance its benefits. However, it’s important to note that black seed oil can cause skin irritation in some people, so it’s best to do a patch test before using it in many areas.
Black Seed Oil Benefits for Hair
Black seed oil is also great for promoting healthy hair. Its essential fatty acids help to nourish the hair follicles, promoting healthy hair growth. It also has antifungal and antibacterial properties that can help reduce dandruff and other scalp conditions. Additionally, black seed oil can help to strengthen the hair, making it less prone to breakage and split ends. Studies have shown that the use of the oil can reduce hair fallout by 76%.
To use black seed oil for the hair, simply massage a small amount into the scalp and hair, focusing on the roots. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes before washing it out with a gentle shampoo. You can also mix it with other oils or hair care products for added benefits.
Black Seed Oil Benefits for Weight Loss
The black seed oil has been shown to have potential benefits for weight loss. It contains compounds that can help to regulate blood sugar levels, reducing cravings and promoting feelings of fullness. Additionally, black seed oil has been shown to have thermogenic properties, meaning it can help to boost metabolism and increase fat burning.
To understand what is black seed oil good for when it comes to weight loss, it is important to follow a healthy diet and exercise regimen along with your intake. You can take black seed oil supplements or add them to your food as a condiment or salad dressing. However, it is important to note that black seed oil should not be used alone as a substitute for a healthy lifestyle.
Black Seed Oil Benefits for Immune System Support
The black seed oil has been shown to have potential benefits for immune system support. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties can help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, which can contribute to a weakened immune system. Additionally, black seed oil has been shown to have antimicrobial properties, meaning it can help to fight off harmful bacteria and viruses.
To use black seed oil for immune system support, simply take it as a daily supplement. You can also add it to your meals or use it as a condiment to enhance its benefits.
How to Use Black Seed Oil
Black seed oil can be used in a variety of ways, depending on what you’re using it for. It can be taken as a daily supplement in capsule form (such as a black seed oil pill) or added to your meals as a condiment or salad dressing. Additionally, you can use it topically for the skin and hair by applying it directly to the affected area or mixing it with other oils or skincare products.
When using black seed oil, it’s important to start with a small amount and gradually increase your intake as needed. Additionally, it’s important to choose high-quality oil from a reputable source to ensure you’re getting the full benefits.
Side Effects of Black Seed Oil
While black seed oil has generally been considered safe at dosages between 200 and 2,000 mg per day for most adults, there are side effects to be aware of when using products. Some people may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions when using black seed oil topically. Additionally, it can interact with certain medications, so it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider before using it if you’re taking any medications or have any underlying health conditions. Some medications, such as those for blood pressure or thyroid conditions may cause the medication to be work a bit too well, causing adverse effects.
In studies on rats, high dosages of black seed oil were found to cause liver and kidney damage. The oil may also slow clotting abilities, making bleeding more likely and riskier.
As with many supplements and medications, there are limited studies on black seed oil. Because it may impact each person in a unique way, it is best to speak to your physician prior to use.
Black Seed Oil Medication Interactions
Though some benefits have been proven, black seed oil may interact with medications you are currently taking. It is always best to consult your healthcare provider before introducing any new medication (prescription or over-the-counter) or supplement (vitamin, oil, herb, etc.).
Some of the drugs known to interact with black seed oil include:
- Norvasc (amlodipine): may over-correct blood pressure when used together
- Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet drugs: may slow clotting, increase the rate of bruising or bleeding
- Cyclosporine: reduce effectiveness of the drugs
- Immunosuppressants: reduce effectiveness of drugs
- Diabetic medications: when used in conjunction may drop sugar levels too low
- Synthroid (levothyroxine): may lower TSH levels too rapidly
- SSRIs: may increase serotonin levels too much; may experience cardiac issue, seizure, nausea/vomiting
- Sleep/sedation drugs: may increase effects too much, causing slowed breathing, breathing problems, excessive sleepiness
- Water pills (diuretics): may drop potassium levels too quickly or too much when used together
As you can see, many of the benefits of black seed oil, when used in conjunction with drugs with the same goal, tend to create an overactivity of the medication’s intention. For example, if you are on blood thinners (anticoagulants), your medication has an intent to thin the blood. Black seed oil also thins blood. Adding the supplement to your medication you’re already taking may produce too much thinning of the blood, therefore putting you in danger.
Always consult your doctor before adding a supplement such as black seed oil to your currently prescribed medications. Even tapering dosages or attempts to deprescribe should be reviewed with your doctor.
What Does Black Seed Oil Do?
Overall, black seed oil has a number of potential health benefits that may make it worth trying. Its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties make it a great remedy for a variety of conditions, including skin and hair issues, weight loss, and immune system support.
However, it’s important to start with a small amount and consult with your healthcare provider before using it. If you have any concerns, such as health conditions or interactions with other medications or supplements, do not start the use of black seed oil until you have consulted with your doctor.
With its long history of use in traditional medicine and its many potential benefits proven through a variety of studies, the black seed oil is a natural remedy that may improve your health.


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Gigawatts Festival 2015: Black Lips, A Place To Bury Strangers, Amanda X, and more at The Well
Black Lips headline one of the first shows of Gigawatts Festival 2015.
Gigawatts Festival announces 2015 line-up
The annual Brooklyn fest gets a steroid shot.
Burger Boogaloo announces line-up
The sixth annual Burger Records fest in Oakland.
Most Excellent Images 2014
Impose photographers attended many, many events in 2014. Here are the very best images that we published all year long.
Moon Block Party 2014
The first edition of Moon Block Party took place in 2011.
Black Lips, The King Khan & BBQ Show, and Habibi at Irving Plaza
We spent the final day of September 2014 with Black Lips, King Khan & BBQ Show, and Habibi in NYC.
Meltasia Music Festival 2014: Day 2
With performances by Quintron & Miss Pussycat, Black Lips, Vockah Redu & more, Meltasia brings out the heavy hitters for its second day.
Week in Pop: Frank Lenz, I Love You, Underpass, Young Karin
Ashan, Bam Spacey, & more, co-curated by Bad Blocks.
Meltasia Music Festival heading to Georgia
The Melt has moved to the backwoods of Georgia.
Black Lips, Night Beats, and Night Birds at House of Vans
Three house parties show down, three more to go for summer 2014.
Austin Psych Fest 2014 portraits
Portraits of the people who made Austin Psychfest one of the festivals to see in 2014.
Austin Psych Fest 2014: Day 1
Austin Psychfest began its seventh year on Friday, May 2, 2014.
Concord America, “So Gay”
Can you handle tongue-in-cheek matters of the heart via scuzzy garage rock?
Black Lips and Natural Child at Webster Hall
The Black Lips & Natural Child show descends upon NYC and we have photos.
Burgerama III: Day 1
Photos from the third annual Burgerama presented by Burger Records & The Observatory.


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No, I want to read more
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Istasyon Mah. Ibisaga Cad. No:6 Tuzla
Go to Google Maps
Find product information, videos, technical data in excel, links to ShopOnline, dimensional drawings and printed matters. Download the apps on the link below.


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Professional Adventurer, Archaeologist, National Best-Selling Author, Royal Canadian Geographical Society Explorer-in-Residence, Highly Regarded Professional Speaker
Dr. Adam Schoalts is one of Canada’s most sought-after speakers. As a professional adventurer, archaeologist, national best-selling author, and Westaway Explorer-in-Residence at the Royal Canadian Geographical Society, Adam shares his insights on resiliency, overcoming adversity and daunting obstacles, the secrets of mental endurance and finding inspiration in tight spots. His presentations combine his trademark humour and optimism with stunning photos from his adventures.
Named “one of the most influential explorers in Canada’s history,” by Canadian Geographic, “one of the greatest living explorers,” by the CBC, and even declared “Canada’s Indiana Jones” by the Toronto Star.
His expeditions range from mapping rivers to archaeological projects, from camping in polar bear territory to climbing mountains, but is best known for his long solo journeys, including crossing nearly 4,000 km of Canada’s Arctic alone, a journey that CNN called “a near impossible feat.”
Shoalts’s work has been featured in media worldwide, including The Washington Post, the BBC, Reader’s Digest, the New York Review of Books, Wired, BuzzFeed, The Telegraph, The Guardian, the Globe and Mail, National Post, Atlantic Books, Nature, the Weather Network, Explore, and many other publications.
His latest adventure, a 3,400 km solo journey from Lake Erie to the Arctic, is the subject of his new book Where the Falcon Flies. Adam’s other award-winning books include Alone Against the North, A History of Canada in 10 Maps, Beyond the Trees, and The Whisper on the Night Wind, all of them national bestsellers.
In 2016, Shoalts was named a national champion of the Trans-Canada Trail and in 2021, he was asked by the Writers’ Trust of Canada to serve as a judge for the Weston Prize, Canada’s largest nonfiction book award. Shoalts has a PhD from McMaster University in history, and in his free time, enjoys long walks in the woods.

domain: geography


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All upperclassmen applicants for campus housing nabbed a spot in residence halls next fall, the first time in nearly a decade that juniors and seniors stayed off the waitlist.
The University must still place about 120 rising sophomores – who are required to live on campus – into rooms. That figure is about the same as past years, and all will receive housing assignments by the summer, Director of GW Housing Programs Seth Weinshel said.
Weinshel said he thought fewer upperclassmen signed up for housing anticipating a housing crunch because GW will close two sophomore residence halls this summer to prepare for the “superdorm.” Last year, about 350 students opted for the waitlist – all of whom were given housing by the end of May, Weinshel said. In 2011, the waitlist included 700 students.
Sophomores will be shuffled into Philip Amsterdam Hall, which previously housed mostly juniors, and quads in several sophomore buildings that were previously triples after the University shutters Crawford, The Schenley and The West End.
With fewer upperclassmen living on campus, two nearby apartment buildings, The Statesman and The President Condominium, reported an increase in student applicants this year. An employee of the Letterman House Condominiums, which houses about 65 percent students each year, said it has not yet seen an increase, but said most student applications stream in closer to the summer.
The University also saw twice as many students request fall-only housing, tallying 280 applications this year. This is the first year that GW allowed students to leave their housing in the spring – the more popular season for study abroad.
Weinshel said last-minute study abroad decisions are among the most common reasons students cancel housing assignments.
But Weinshel said he does not expect many students to ditch housing assignments. Last year, the office implemented a steep $700 fine for students who dropped their assignments a month or more after the deadline to deter them from seeing campus housing as a fallback.
“We still anticipate a high occupancy rate like we have in previous years,” Weinshel said. “When students want housing, we’ll continue to provide them housing.”
He said that because he does not expect many students to take their names off the list, he doesn’t think rooms around campus will go empty next fall.
“The fact that there are fewer people on the waitlist will not negatively impact us. The fees, regardless of where the funding goes, are meant to be a deterrent,” he said.
Weinshel said he did not think housing prices, which went up about 3 percent this year, similar to past years’ increases, were a factor in students’ decisions because it they are less than the housing market’s yearly inflation.
Colleen Murphy contributed to this report.

domain: news


The impact of urbanization and agricultural development on vultures in El Salvador
Turkey and Black vulture ranges are expanding in the Americas despite environmental change, while Old World vulture populations are declining in Eurasia and Africa. The distribution of vultures is under-researched in El Salvador, arguably the most environmentally degraded Latin American nation. This article tests the hypothesis that Turkey and Black vulture adaptation to extremely modified landcover, recorded elsewhere, ensures their survival in El Salvador. The methodology uses point count surveys of vulture species density along an urban to forest gradient (dense downtown areas, suburbs, rural villages and farms, mixed uninhabited savanna, open and closed forests). The very common Black Vulture and the slightly less common Turkey Vulture were most often recorded in downtown areas, followed successively by suburban, fallow, savanna and forests. Only downtown and suburban areas, and to a much lesser extent farm fallow, recorded significantly more vultures than the other landcover categories, despite reduced vulture numbers along the gradient towards the forest. The much rarer Lesser Yellow-headed Vulture was most often recorded in farm/grass mosaics and the rarer King Vulture was recorded in forest. Turkey and Black vultures have adapted strongly to extreme environmental change in El Salvador. This result is important as an indicator study for assessing the ecology of these vulture species in less degraded areas.
Keywords: vulture, urbanization, environmental change, El Salvador, conservation


We know, now more than ever, that our fate as a species is deeply connected with the fate of our natural environment. Nature loss has tangible business and economic impacts. Over half the world’s total GDP is moderately or highly dependent on nature and its services and is therefore at risk. We now also know that protecting and restoring natural ecosystems is crucial in combatting climate change.
The COVID-19 crisis provides an unprecedented opportunity to reset humanity’s relationship with nature. The decisions that we make in the near future will shape the world for decades to come, and these decisions must be discussed during upcoming milestone international summits – including the UN General Assembly, the UN Food Systems Summit, and the climate and biodiversity COPs.
A recent CEO briefing document released by the World Economic Forum, WBCSD, Business for Nature and We Mean Business outlines why businesses need to act on nature and the steps they need to take. Many businesses are showing us what is already possible and are proving that safeguarding nature will lead to a thriving economy and resilient jobs.
To provide inspiration for the important year ahead, 8 members of the Champions for Nature community shared why they are working towards a nature-positive, net-zero and socially equitable future.
To build resilience ‘to future economic and environmental shocks’
Claudia Azevedo, CEO, Sonae
The COVID-19 pandemic has been a stark reminder of the vulnerability of our current economy and many of our livelihoods. A nature-positive economy will challenge businesses to shift towards jobs that are more resilient to future economic and environmental shocks.
At Sonae, we are highly committed to a long-term vision and recognise the need of integrating natural capital in the equation, so our nature-positive journey began many years ago, embedding it in Sonae’s business strategy.
Given the magnitude of current challenges, we encourage all companies to raise their ambitions around nature and climate and to join this effort. Nature loss will significantly impact all business in all countries. We have to be quick and effective in our actions.
To benefit biodiversity and business
Marco Bizzarri, President and CEO, Gucci
Have you read?
The twin crises of nature loss and climate change are interconnected and great benefits for business and society can be achieved if they are tackled together. As businesses, we must all respond to these crises as a matter of urgency and play our part to transition to a net-zero, nature-positive economy.
At Gucci, we have integrated climate solutions across our sustainability strategy to promote biodiversity conservation while we focus on emissions reduction. We have been carbon neutral in our direct operations and across our supply chain since 2018. Under our ‘Natural Climate Solutions Portfolio’, we are investing in regenerative agriculture, and protecting and restoring important ecosystems that mitigate climate change, which will provide lasting biodiversity and climate benefits for years to come.
To ‘restore critical water sources and ensure quality water for human consumption’
Bertrand Camus, CEO, Suez
Water is one of the key resources linking us to natural systems. One in four cities – representing over $4 trillion in economic activity – are already water stressed.
SUEZ is demonstrating how innovation and nature-based solutions can be used to restore critical water sources and ensure quality water for human consumption. A nature-positive economy is the only way to protect our water supplies and allow natural processes to continue to sustain life on earth as we know it.
At SUEZ, we aim to step up our role in protecting the environment and restoring our natural assets by taking action for the protection and rehabilitation of terrestrial, aquatic and marine biodiversity. To do this, the Group is accelerating its development of “100% sustainable” solutions characterised by their positive impact on the environment be it on air, water or soil.
To ‘improve farmer livelihoods and ensure a sustainable food system’
Liam Condon, President, Bayer Crop Science Division
At Bayer, we work with farmers every day to make agriculture a part of the solution to climate change and help lead us towards a nature-positive economy.
A great example is our Bayer Carbon Initiative. We promote climate-smart farming practices through a combination of product innovations, digital solutions and new outcome-based models that reward farmers who contribute to carbon sequestration. As more farmers embrace this novel approach, they realize the benefit through improved soil health for better harvests while contributing to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
At the same time, we are committed to be carbon-neutral in our own operations by 2030 through use of renewable energy sources, efficiency measures and acquiring high-quality carbon credits for remaining emissions.
Since the agriculture landscape is highly diverse across the globe, we tailor-fit our innovations and efforts based on these varying dynamics with the end goal to improve farmer livelihoods and ensure a sustainable food system that can nourish the world.
To ‘protect the earth for future generations’
Guillaume Le Cunff, CEO, Nespresso US, Nestlé USA Inc.
Now is the time for urgency. We’re entering the decisive decade – it’s not just necessary to take actions to protect the earth for future generations, but also for the future of humanity.
I believe the private sector can be a powerful catalyst for change. Companies like Nespresso are in a privileged spot – we can accelerate transformative actions throughout our value chains, such as regenerative agriculture, eco-design, recycling and building a low-carbon nature-positive and inclusive economy. I have seen first-hand how coffee can be a force for good. Our ambition is to build on a 20-year legacy and accelerate our efforts. The clock is ticking.
To 'tackle the climate crisis’ and add ‘business value of over $10 trillion’
Roberto Marques, Group CEO, Natura
The interconnections between nature and humanity must not be underestimated. The natural world is on the verge of its tipping point, and we must act now.
Have you read?
The business community has a huge role to play. Transitioning to a nature-positive economy by 2030 could provide both an effective way to tackle the climate crisis and an annual business value of over $10 trillion. As businesses, we must begin to think longer term and consider investments in nature which will pay off in the future.
Natura &Co has been operating in the Amazon for over 20 years, respecting the forest. We will continue our endeavour to work with our partners, overcoming competition in favour of collaboration, to help build an agreement for nature, designed to halt and reverse nature loss by 2030.
To provide ‘for livelihoods and development' and restore ‘nature and landscapes’
Anderson Tanoto, Managing Director, RGE
Nature is the biggest ally in the fight against climate change. Natural climate solutions aim to utilise the power of nature to lessen climate change impacts, while halting the destruction of ecosystems.
At RGE, we embrace the production-protection model, where working forests ring-fence and buffer natural forests against encroachment and other illegal activities. This is a practical approach that not only provides for livelihoods and development but also restores nature and landscapes – allowing biodiversity and people to thrive for the long term.
To ‘protect nature while feeding the world’
Svein Tore Holsether, CEO, Yara
At Yara, we feel it is our responsibility to work with farmers to protect nature while feeding the world. The agricultural sector employs 65% of the world’s working poor and, in the Global South, forests are the source of livelihoods for over 1.6 billion people.
For us, the solution is quite literally in the soil. Done right, we can turn farmland back into nature and create natural carbon sinks. We need businesses to come together and take a stand, respecting the planetary boundaries.
For too long we have tried to control nature. Now we need to control ourselves.
What’s the World Economic Forum doing about climate change?
Climate change poses an urgent threat demanding decisive action. Communities around the world are already experiencing increased climate impacts, from droughts to floods to rising seas. The World Economic Forum's Global Risks Report continues to rank these environmental threats at the top of the list.
To limit global temperature rise to well below 2°C and as close as possible to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, it is essential that businesses, policy-makers, and civil society advance comprehensive near- and long-term climate actions in line with the goals of the Paris Agreement on climate change.
The World Economic Forum's Climate Initiative supports the scaling and acceleration of global climate action through public and private-sector collaboration. The Initiative works across several workstreams to develop and implement inclusive and ambitious solutions.
This includes the Alliance of CEO Climate Leaders, a global network of business leaders from various industries developing cost-effective solutions to transitioning to a low-carbon, climate-resilient economy. CEOs use their position and influence with policy-makers and corporate partners to accelerate the transition and realize the economic benefits of delivering a safer climate.
Contact us to get involved.


Ninth Ballymena Guides, Brownies and Rainbows held their Annual Display recently in St Columba’s Parish Church, Doury Road, Ballymena.
Mums, Dads, Grannies and siblings filled the hall to watch a super variety show.
The Rainbows appeared in Fancy Dress doing action songs, the Brownies presented a drama sketch and the Guides performed their camp fire songs before individual artistes danced or played a variety of instruments.
Congratulations to all the leaders of the various groups who week after week take the time out to prepare the young people for displays such as this as well as working for their Guiding badges. Well done to the Guides, Brownies and Rainbows.


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According to Facebook, Messenger Kids is a new app that, “makes it easier for kids to safely video chat and message with family and friends when they can’t be together in person.”
We’ve engaged with over a dozen expert advisors in the areas of child development, online safety and children’s media and technology…
In December 2017, Facebook launched Messenger Kids, a social media app designed for children who are 13 years of age or younger. It’s like the familiar Messenger app that Facebook sort-of forced on us for messaging on the mobile or app version of their platform, but you know, for kids… Of course, not everyone agrees with the idea; with kids being the target user and on the impact that this unprecedented social media app could have on children’s development.
Facebook’s justification to this is that today, parents are allowing, supporting, and enabling the use of smartphones and other digital devices that are not necessarily designed with them in mind. They’re basically saying: the kids are already using it, why not make it safe! In fact, Facebook claims there is a “need” for this kind of app that -in their words- “lets kids connect with people they love but also has the level of control parents want”.
Parents seem to be sold on the idea of “parental control” behind the app, as emphasized in Facebook’s promotional video for the Messenger Kids app, which was released on December 4, 2017. Not to mention, the kids are stoked over it; it’s easy when you consider the integrated playful mask filters, emojis, etc.
So is it all fun and games? What could possibly go wrong here? Should we be worried about the safety of our children?
Hook new users before they reach high school: that seems to be the goal behind one of the company’s latest initiatives, anyways.
Well, according to Futurism, a popular science and technology website, Facebook is only trying to “hook new users before they reach high school”.
Moreover, here’s what the Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood (CCFC) had to say in a letter they sent to Facebook, demanding that they take down Messenger Kids:
We understand that not all relationships can be face-to-face. One of Facebook’s stated rationales for creating Messenger Kids is to help kids connect with long-distance family members, including parents in the military. But talking to family and friends over long distances doesn’t require a Messenger Kids account. Kids can use parents’ Facebook, Skype, or other accounts to chat with relatives. They can also just pick up a phone.
Consider these concerns shared by the CCFC:
- Children are not old enough for the complexities of the online world.
- Young kids lack a concrete understanding of privacy.
- Currently existing concerns with the negative effects that social media use has on adolescents.
So whether you side with Facebook, and think children need their own social media platform to connect with close friends and family or with the CCFC, and others alike, that it’s more harmful than helpful, be sure to check out KidsLiveSafe to learn how to keep your kids safe from sexual predators and more.

domain: sociology


That’ll impress a lot of people. “The White House is threatening to veto an effort by House Republicans to cut taxes for millions of smaller businesses, calling it an unproductive giveaway to many of the country’s most profitable companies.” Thunk.
Get the impression they talked themselves into a premature victory celebration? “Obama remains ahead in his race with Romney—but just barely. So why are the president’s surrogates sounding so overconfident?”
I’m not impressed with these Iran talks either. “Israeli PM Netanyahu labeled the outcome of the talks a ‘freebie’ for Iran. He was too kind. The talks were a victory for Iran, and a humiliation for the Obama administration, and its hapless “please meet with me” delegation. The thin-skinned president was angry and slapped back at Netanyahu, yet another sign he’s playing Iran’s game for them. But that doesn’t mean the Israelis have to play along: Today, Defense Minister Barak told Israeli Army Radio that Israel has made no commitment not to strike Iran while talks are going on.”
Obama wants to impress us with his opposition to domestic energy development. “The White House on Tuesday said Obama would veto legislation before the U.S. House of Representatives that sought to force approval of the stalled Keystone XL oil pipeline as part of a new 90-day extension of federal transportation funding.”
If you were momentarily impressed with Senate Democrats, you can no go back to being disgusted. “Senate Budget Committee Chairman Kent Conrad (D-N.D.) bowed to pressure from fellow Democrats on Tuesday and postponed a committee vote on a 2013 budget resolution, most likely until after the November elections.” What exactly is the argument for keeping them in the majority?
Conservatives should be impressed with the idea about eliminating all or some of HUD. “Sometimes HUD just perpetuates or supports bad local policies, but it also attaches coercive powers to the billions in subsidies that it provides to local governments — it’s tough for local governments to say no to, say, a $20 million grant to build an affordable-housing project, but HUD often provides a range of pointless or downright harmful requirements for such projects.” It’s also been an agency historically rife with fraud and abuse.
New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie (R) has impressed the blue state voters. “Currently, Governor Christie earns a 51% approve to 35% disapprove job rating among all Garden State residents.”


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Richard Madeley asked about One
- Bang Showbiz
- 21 May 2010
Former 'This Morning' presenter Richard Madeley has confirmed he was approached about replacing Adrian Chiles on 'The One Show'
Richard Madeley has confirmed he was approached about hosting 'The One Show'.
The veteran presenter has been one of several names linked to replacing Adrian Chiles on the BBC's flagship show and admits his agent was asked if he would be interested in the job.
He said: "Every presenter under the age of 79 has been linked with the mammoth task of replacing Adrian. I was approached informally in Cannes, the TV festival down there, about a month ago - not personally, but my agent.
"That's all that happened. They said, 'Are you interested?' and I said, 'I don't know. I could be,' and we might have a meeting, we might not."
However, Richard - most famous for fronting 'This Morning' with wife Judy Finnigan - would only be interested in doing occasional stints on the show as he doesn't want to be tied down.
He added to BANG Showbiz: "If it were to happen, I'd only want to do it on an occasional basis. I don't want to tie myself down to another four or five days a week, I did that for 21 years with Judy. I'd need a lot of persuading to do something with that regularity, so it's unlikely, but it's in the air."
Meanwhile, comedian Jason Manford has also reportedly been lined up for the 'One Show' job after he bonded better with female host Christine Bleakley better than other hopefuls Matt Allwright, Matt Baker, Matt Smith, Nick Hancock and Austin Healey.
A source said: "Jason is seen by many in TV as a rising star."


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“Don’t be so damn hard on yourself. Yeah, you screwed up. You’re not perfect, fine. Learn from it. But don’t punish yourself. Be kind to you, even when you screw up. You’ll bounce back eventually. You’ll make up for it.”—Stephanie Klein (via kari-shma)
Forgive me, but it’s painful to think of you this way Because there is evidence of your world without me I could live in those pictures taken a long time ago and pretend that I also loved another when in truth it was just the ghost of loss
I’m sorry, but it’s painful to know that my pain is no one’s fault but mine
“Don’t you see? Because were so trained to do life the right way. To not make mistakes. I figure, the bigger the mistake looks, the better chance I’ll have to break out and live a real life. Our real discoveries come from chaos, from going to the place that looks wrong and stupid and foolish.”—Invisible Monsters - Chuck Palahniuk (via jennayyieex3)
But you forgot about those cold days haunted by the lives we used to love living. We forgot the bliss we found in loving other people. You forgot that things like that stain you; they leave the marks on the walls of your heart. It’s cold, I said,
and I don’t remember ever giving you my love for safekeeping.
A lot of the time I get that feeling like I was in the middle of a huge black ocean, or in deep space, but not in the fascinating way. It’s just that everything was incredibly far from me. It was worst at night.
“Do you ever wonder whether people would like you more or less if they could see inside you? …I always wonder about that. If people could see me the way i see myself—if they could live in my memories—would anyone, anyone, love me?”—John Green An Abundance of Katherines (via 24ribs)
“Right now I want a word that describes the feeling you get - a cold, sick feeling deep down inside - when you know something is happening that will change you, and you don’t want it to, but you can’t stop it. And you know, for the first time, for the very first time, that there will now be a before and an after, a was and a will be. And that you will never again be quite the person you were.”—Jennifer Donnelly (via 99lions)

domain: psychology


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CERN joins forces with IBM to build successor to the Web
The European Centre for Nuclear Research, or CERN, in Geneva has chosen IBM to help design a successor to the World Wide Web. The computer giant will build the first prototypes for the system, dubbed "DataGrid".
CERN has been at the forefront of the computer revolution since the early 1990s when a team, led by Tim Berners-Lee, came up with the idea of the Web, making the Internet available to a wider public.
The impetus for DataGrid is the CERN’s Large Hadron Collider – a huge new particle accelerator, which is under construction and scheduled to begin operating in 2005.
The Collider will generate enormous amounts of data, far more than the laboratory’s own computers can handle. To process this vast reservoir of information, CERN’s scientists came up with the idea of distributing the data among a network of supercomputers.
Researchers all over the world are now tackling the design of the “DataGrid”, but CERN has kept overall control of the project.
IBM was chosen to develop two regional grids, connecting two groups of universities; one in Britain and the other in the Netherlands. The company is the first industrial heavyweight to join the project, which until now has been solely in the hands of the scientists.
The “DataGrid” will eventually link a large number of computers with high-speed connections, giving access to both data and processing power. Scientists will benefit first and foremost from the increased computer power, particularly those working in particle physics, climatology or genetics.
Private computer users should also reap some benefits from these huge databanks. A person buying a block of land to build a house could, for example, access the weather data for that area over the past ten years.
swissinfo with agencies
In compliance with the JTI standards


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In 1984, Van Halen released their album 1984, and it spawned three top 15 Hot 100 singles and four top 25 Rock singles. The first single Jump became Van Halen’s first number one song on the Hot 100 charts. They followed Jump up with two number 13 songs on the Hot 100 charts with I’ll Wait and Panama. The fourth and last single released from the album was Hot For Teacher. It didn’t chart in the top 40 on the Hot 100 charts, but it did peak at number 24 on the Mainstream Rock charts. Hot For Teacher was the last official single released from the original Van Halen lineup of David Lee Roth, Michael Anthony, Eddie Van Halen, and Alex Van Halen.
Hot For Teacher might not have been as popular with the masses as the first three singles, but the music video is one of our all time favorite music videos from Van Halen. Enjoy this look back at Van Halen’s music video for Hot For Teacher as well as a rare live video for I’ll Wait, one of Van Halen’s more underrated, but really good songs!


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An interesting take on ancient Chinese myths, and the game of Mahjong
The Seed of Immortality is not a book you easily come across, it literally disappears behind all the naked torsos that dominate the Gay & Lesbian section. Yes, it’s on sale on Amazon, but I don’t think I’ve ever searched for a book under “Chinese” or “Historical” in my life. Instead, I happened to talk to the author, Wayne Goodman, about his writing after he’d interviewed me for his podcast Queer Words. Coincidences. He graciously made the book available to me and I read it with gusto over the Holidays.
I’ll be frank and admit that I have no clue how to play Mahjong and after reading the story, I’m no more interested to learn the game than I was before. To each their own. But even if you’re like me, you might enjoy this book for its story. This is an extremely well-written tale, and I don’t say that out of a false sense of gratitude toward Wayne for granting me a spot on his podcast. No. I really think this is an interesting story, in part because he so aptly captured the way Chinese conversation flows, how he depicts the time period and the flow of the narrative.
A great fan of China
The author is a China aficionado, he clearly loves the culture and the heritage that stretches thousands of years back in time. It’s easy to agree with him. I’ve traveled to China twice and the Chinese have a lot to offer the world in terms of knowledge, philosophy, and life wisdom. Sadly, the west doesn’t seem to appreciate the Asian cultures and their millennia of culture and history (nor Africa or the Americas for that matter.)
There are a great many words and terms used in The Seed of Immortality and the author explains them at the end of the book. I read it on my phone and it makes the getting back and forth a bit cumbersome. I would imagine this being a lot easier on a paperback with a bookmark at hand. Alas, it is what it is. But I applaud Wayne’s decision to not explain the terms in the story as he tells it. It would distract and it would risk pulling you out of the comfort of slipping back in time to the period in which the story is told, a good two-thousand-two-hundred years ago, starting with the reign of emperor Qin Shi Huang. The story ends a couple of hundred years later, but I won’t spoil that for you.
How to tackle homosexuality centuries before the expression was coined?
How do you write a story about gay people (and I use the term as loosely as I can) millennia before the term was first used? In an era where people’s thinking about gay people and gay acts were completely different than what we consider today? Well, Wayne Goodman does a marvelous job. See, we’ve always been part of human society, and if you doubt that you probably belong to the group of people who also believe that dinosaurs were part of Noah’s Ark. Hashtag facepalm. I’ve used Alexander the Great as an example, who lived in those days, and we have Hadrian, the builder of the wall between England and Scotland, the first man in history we know of to get married to another man. So much for “traditional marriage”… Alas, I’m digressing.
The real difference is that back then, people didn’t use sexuality as an identifier or a way to distinguish themselves from others. I just read an article about contemporary Afghanistan, and the ancient tradition of Bacha bazi, a form of gay behavior that still isn’t seen as such, not unlike similar traditions in ancient Greece. In Turkey, to this day, you’re only considered gay if you’re bottoming in a relationship. Odd, I know, but imagine if you don’t even have a word for it? As a linguist, I’m familiar with the Sapir-Whorf hypothesis, which roughly states that we are unable to imagine that for which we have no word. On the other hand, we can easily imagine things we have a word for, even though they don’t exist, e.g. Warp speed or “beam me up”. A simplification of course. What the Chinese of the period did was to circumscribe behaviors, mannerisms and Wayne makes good use of those terms. They’re also defined in the glossary of The Seed of Immortality.
But more importantly, the characters don’t define themselves as gay. At first, I found that almost offensive (to me, as a gay man), but I have to hand it to the author. How could they when they “literally” couldn’t? The way–and I won’t offer any spoilers–the author delicately describes the altering attitudes and behavior on an individual level, particularly within the mind and thinking of our main protagonist, Hao Lan. Color me impressed!
The story pulls you in, like a fairytale, and keeps you hooked
I won’t offer a synopsis of the story, as it’s weaved like a tapestry of small scenes within the larger arc that is the immortality and how to stay immortal for the eight immortals that exist in Chinese mythology. The story is told from Hao Lan’s perspective, from his arrival at a health retreat to play Mahjong and regain his health to the end of the book where he departs on a mission west on behalf of the Chinese emperor, two hundred years later, right around the time our modern time begins, with the alleged birth of Jesus of Nazareth.
The story weaves in dream sequences where Hao Lan is in communion with a mythical blue dragon, who provides Hao Lan with foresight and also gives him tasks to accomplish. These dreams form the backdrop that weaves the tapestry of the arc story and they lead our protagonist and his huoban from tale to tale. It is most intriguing.
The dialogue is exquisite. I find it hard to put my finger on exactly what it is because obviously the story is written in contemporary English, but the dialogue feels Chinese, reminds me of how my Chinese friends and business associates speak English.
Mahjong or not, give this story a try…
I don’t play Mahjong, not sure I ever will. I learned long ago never to say never. I thoroughly enjoyed The Seed of Immortality, including its rather abrupt ending (how else can you end a tale about immortals?) There might be a continuation at some point and Wayne recently told me that it was originally conceived as a trilogy, so who knows. For now, this serves as a most excellent stand-alone. Don’t let the cover distract you from the treasure within! This is a book I most certainly will return to, knowing that more details are hidden, things I may have overlooked the first time I read the story.
To learn more about the author and his work, contact him on this Facebook page. Wayne Goodman is also curator of an excellent new podcast I regularly enjoy listening to, whether you’re an author or reader, Queer Words.

domain: library


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This is a Spanish-English bilingual math and science-themed story time series that presents stories and activities designed to introduce important science and math concepts to 3- to 5-year-olds.
Es una serie de historias bilingües de inglés y español que presenta historias y actividades diseñadas para introducir conceptos importantes de ciencia y matemáticas a niños de 3 a 5 años.
This program was developed by the National Institute for Early Education Research at Rutgers University, to bring high quality STEM (science, technology, mathematics, and engineering) activities to a broader audience outside of school, especially for children and families who speak Spanish. Stories, songs, and activities are linked to the New Jersey Department of Education Preschool Teaching and Learning Standards, introducing math concepts such as counting, measuring, and patterns, and science concepts such as the senses, planting and growing, and form and function.
This program is funded by the New Jersey State Library and the National Institute for Early Education Research (NIEER) at Rutgers University.


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Matt Simoncini receives honorary degree from Wayne State
At Wayne State's May 2018 commencement ceremony at Ford Field, the university presented Mike Ilitch School of Business alumnus Matt Simoncini with an honorary doctor of laws degree in recognition of his remarkable career, philanthropic efforts, and dedication to Detroit.
Simoncini was born, raised and educated in the city, attending Detroit Public Schools and earning a bachelor’s of accounting from Wayne State in 1985. He began his career at Touche Ross and is a certified public accountant. He went on to hold financial and manufacturing positions with Varity Kelsey-Hayes and Horizon Enterprises, serving as chief financial officer of Kelsey-Hayes’ European operations.
In 1996, Simoncini joined Lear — a leading global supplier of automotive seating and electrical systems — after Lear’s acquisition of competitor United Technologies Automotive, where he had been director of financial planning and analysis. At Lear, Simoncini held a series of senior financial roles, rising through the ranks before being named president, CEO and director in September 2011. He retired from Lear in March 2018, and is serving as an advisor to the company through the end of the year. During his six years at the helm, Simoncini took Lear from the aftermath of a bankruptcy to an era of record sales.
A vocal supporter of the city, in 2015 Simoncini led the effort to open the $10 million Lear Innovation Center in downtown Detroit, which aims to develop new business opportunities in collaboration with local groups and students, including those from the WSU College of Engineering and Mike Ilitch School of Business. In February, he was honored with the 2017 Crain’s Newsmaker of the Year award.
Over the course of his career, Simoncini has generously contributed his time and expertise to a number of organizations, serving on the boards of groups such as the Bing Youth Institute, the Detroit Children’s Fund, the Michigan Opera Theatre, The Parade Company, the Detroit Economic Club, the Business Leaders for Michigan and the Wayne State University Foundation.
Since earning his WSU degree, Simoncini has been an ardent advocate of his alma mater. He was instrumental in helping secure a naming gift from Lear to create the Lear Auditorium in the new Mike Ilitch School of Business building under construction in the District Detroit. He was a longtime member of the Ilitch School Board of Visitors and Alumni Council, and conceived of and championed the Swing for the Students golf outing, which raised $500,000 for student scholarships over the course of a decade. He was essential to his company’s establishment of the Lear Corporation Climbing the Ladder Annual Scholarship to support accounting majors active in community service and extracurricular activities. He also established the Matthew J. and Mona M. Simoncini Endowed Scholarship for business school students with a personal-giving pledge.


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New Breakthrough Service
Our SchoolSystemScanIR™ Service product enables you to plan and budget repairs based on real data. We scan large numbers of roofs in an area all at once, with high speed, high resolution, highly sensitive infrared imaging systems mounted in light aircraft. This is very high resolution, top quality infrared and optional visual imagery. In this phased approach, less money needs to be spent on roofs that do not have problems, or ones that have only a few or minor problems.
Here’s how it works..
- Your management team sends us a listing of all flat and low-sloped roofs that have been selected for surveying.
- We send back a document with an on-line map image of each building to be included.
- All school site locations are verified correct by your management team.
- We fly each school site location with high resolution IR imagers.
- We produce a report including all the roofs individually, showing which schools have problems by using arrows/shapes to show a sampling of suspect subsurface wet areas.
Note: We have minimum contract amounts, so for more information call 800-248-SCAN or visit our Contact Us page.
Phase 2 (optional)
- Joint review with the management team of the Phase 1 information takes place by net meeting where all roofs are reviewed.
- Roofs that have problems are singled-out and selected to be upgraded to a full survey. (This is absolutely optional.)
Phase 3 (optional)
- We fly selected school site locations and create high-resolution photographs of the schools that have been chosen for a full survey.
- The high resolution photographs and high resolution thermographs are used to create CAD drawings, showing exact outlines of suspect wet areas.
- Full survey reports are generated on the selected roofs.
Why Choose Us?
- Unmatched experience within the application of aerial infrared.
- We use the highest-quality infrared equipment available which captures problem areas unseen to the naked eye or by lower quality cameras.
- Refined imagery collection and processing systems.
- A staff of professional, experienced thermographers well-versed in the multiple applications of infrared thermography with the knowledge and experience in utilizing the imagery to save customers thousands of dollars in predictive/preventive maintenance costs.