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It appears I wasn't entirely off the mark back in September, when I theorized that Hot Topic
Hot Topic's third-quarter net income increased 19% to $7.1 million, or $0.16 per share. However, sales increased only 2% to $196.7 million, with same-store sales down 6.8%, compared with last year's 6.2% decrease. Margins improved across the board -- see our Fool by Numbers for more. The company met Wall Street's expectations and reiterated guidance, and considering Hot Topic's recent history, I guess there's reason for the market's excitement.
I speculated two months ago that a return to punk styling for fall might help Hot Topic, but I don't think the sales increase really backs up that theory. And in cases like Hot Topic's, you have to wonder how long a retailer can flail before it starts to show improvement.
Back in September, on a whim, I put an "outperform" on Hot Topic in our new Motley Fool CAPS database, careful to include in my related pitch that this was a speculative, "let's see what happens" selection for my mock portfolio. I enjoyed a 14-point increase in my HOTT score before I got cold feet and closed it out. I suppose I might have waited a little longer; on my last check, Hot Topic was up almost 18% today! Good grief. (The CAPS community, however, seems to justify my lack of faith; they've given Hot Topic a one-star rating out of five.)
I still consider Hot Topic a deeply speculative stock, and I'd avoid it with real money as a long-term investment. Punk and goth may come and go as mainstream fashion. Meanwhile, the kids who really consider themselves punk by lifestyle, regardless of what's on the runways or in the fashion magazines, may find a mall-based punk retail chain too mainstream. And Hot Topic's emphasis on music and pop-culture merchandise hasn't really helped it lately.
Meanwhile, teen retailers like American Eagle Outfitters
Too bad I didn't keep Hot Topic as a CAPS pick, at least until today. But after today's big jump, investors who are really in this stock (or considering it) might want to tread carefully. Hot Topic's third quarter did look better in many ways, but it might be a false start, instead of a certain turnaround.
- Wall Street vs. Main Street: Hot Topic in CAPS.
- In September, I pondered Hot Topic's trying trends.
- In August, Stephen Simpson decided HOTT was still not.
Alyce Lomax does not own shares of any of the companies mentioned. As of this writing, she was ranked 1585 out of 13051 in CAPS.


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Downtown Construction progress has been made despite rainy conditions over the past week.
One highlight for this past week was the opening of Fifth Street at K Avenue. (shown above)
Work is progressing nicely on K Avenue, west of Sixth. (shown below)
A full review of this year’s project was made available on the City Blog on March 9. Read that review here: Phase II of Nevada’s Downtown Construction Project starts next week – Nevada News (wordpress.com)

domain: news


An amendment that would have let the city of Spartanburg co
Published: Friday, April 28, 1995 at 3:15 a.m.
Last Modified: Friday, April 28, 1995 at 12:00 a.m.
An amendment that would have let the city of Spartanburg continue to regulate smoking in larger stores and restaurants was killed in the House Wednesday on a vote of 73-34. Here's how Spartanburg County House members voted on a motion to table, or kill, the amendment. NO: Rita Allison, R-Lyman; Lanny Littlejohn, R-Spartanburg; Doug Smith, R-Spartanburg; Carole Wells, R-Spartanburg; and Bob Walker, R-Landrum. YES: Ralph Davenport, R-Spartanburg; Lewis Vaughn, R-Taylors. NOT VOTING: Don Beatty, D-Spartanburg; and Steve Lanford; R-Spartanburg; and Donny Wilder, D-Clinton.
How they voted No: Rita Allison, R-Lyman; Lanny Littlejohn, R-Spartanburg; Doug Smith, R-Spartanburg; Carole Wells, R-Spartanburg; and Bob Walker, R-Landrum. Yes: Ralph Davenport, R-Spartanburg; Lewis Vaughn, R-Taylors. Not voting: Don Beatty, D-Spartanburg; and Steve Lanford; R-Spartanburg; and Donny Wilder, D-Clinton.
House votes against city smoking law
By CHUCK CARROLL Columbia Bureau
COLUMBIA - Spartanburg City Council members condemned the state House Thursday for passing a bill that would overturn most of the city's smoking law, which puts restrictions on where people can light up in some stores and restaurants. Although proponents hailed the vote as a victory for the rights of businesses to conduct their affairs as they see fit, some legislative opponents, and certainly Spartanburg City Council members, saw the bill as a slap at local control. "I can't believe it," said an angry Councilman Pot Lindsay. "They're going against the will of the people." "This is big government telling local government what to do," Councilwoman Linda Dogan said. "They're supposed to deal with things that concern the whole state, and we can take care of things at home." Councilman Roy Henderson agreed. "They're going backwards. Other cities and towns are tightening down their ordinances." The bill, passed by the House Thursday after making major changes to it Wednesday, does scale back smokers' rights in some places. For example, it would give school boards the right to declare smoke-free facilities, and requires that any smoking lounges for teachers and staff not be adjacent to classrooms. Also, it says local governments may ban or restrict smoking in their own buildings. It also would strengthen enforcement of the state's prohibition against the sale of tobacco to minors, proponents said. Public health officials have questioned that, however. All of that was part of the original bill, by Rep. Gary Simrill, R-Rock Hill. But the House also adopted, by a 38-34 vote, an amendment by Rep. Ralph Davenport, R-Spartanburg, that in some ways strengthens smokers' rights. The amendment says local governments can't pass smoking restrictions that are harsher than state law, which does not regulate smoking on private property. Spartanburg's law restricts smoking in larger restaurants and stores to designated areas. The bill still needs Senate approval but is unlikely to be considered there until next year unless it becomes a higher priority than it seems to be now. Spartanburg City Council members said they would fight the bill in the Senate, but City Attorney Spencer King said there probably is little the city could do legally to challenge the bill if it becomes law. The city of Greenville's law, upon which Spartanburg's is based, was left standing because it was enacted before 1990, when the Legislature passed the Clean Indoor Act. But Spartanburg's law, passed in 1993 and strengthened in 1994, was struck down. The House defeated, on a vote of 73-34, an amendment by Simrill that would have let Spartanburg's law stand. Most Spartanburg County legislators voted in favor of leaving the Spartanburg law in place. Davenport, one of the most pro-business lawmakers, called the vote a blow for the rights of the private business owner and against government interference. "It's his money, his investment, and it's an infringement on free enterprise and his right to conduct business the way he wants to," Davenport said. SMOKE2.7
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When it comes to purchasing the best relationship guidance, there are a few facts that couples have in common. First of all, they must believe they will actually find someone who can be compatible with them and the second is they have to believe that your lover will also find all of them attractive and interesting. Lovers must be happy to accept anybody who shows little desire for them. In cases where they think they’ve a good potential then they must not be afraid to tell the truth about themselves. In the end will probably be the decision of the individual, whether he desires to tell anyone about his expectations or perhaps not.
With regards to relationships, it is crucial for the partners to discover more regarding each other folks interests. In the event the person would not tell the other regarding his hobbies and other actions then it’s not always a good sign. If this individual tells a person partner regarding sports and the other about movies yet never tells about his gardening then a chances of these kinds of relationships following are minimal. The best relationship advice that one can give to the other spouse is to allow him to do the discussing. You will know what interests him and what does not fascination him simply by looking at his habits and pursuits.
One of the best relationship advice that one may offer to the other half should be to avoid the kinds of associations. There is no glaciers to break therefore you cannot just simply break your relationship due to some stupid reason. Human relationships take a number of time to grow and therefore in the event you will be in one just before you find out that other person would not like you any more then it is best that you end the relationship. When you decide to reconcile with your partner then you both equally need to assess if you are able to work on the issues between the both of you. You cannot merely say something and just anticipate the other person to switch.
It is very difficult to understand why a person adjustments from one severe to another. In terms of having fun, you may be thinking that your life is over because there is no need anything else to perform but to have a good time. But creating a wide range of fun does not always mean that you spend every day since friends. It takes a lot of effort, perseverance and understanding to enjoy interactions and it also usually takes two people to have a relationship last.
The best relationship advice that one can give to the other half is always to always asian melodies reviews let your spouse have his freedom. It means that you should let him do what he would like whenever he wants and whenever this individual feels like doing it. If you feel as if you are having to do issues because you are with him then you certainly are not seriously with him. You happen to be with a partner that is controlling you and telling you what direction to go all the time. You should have more free-thinking and decision making when it comes to issues of your romance.
To enjoy connections, partners have to show the other person how much they will love the other person. This can be done by showing your partner that you appreciate him/her and make it a point to shell out every day as if you were along with him/her. This can be a best relationship assistance for couples who feel the relationship is normally not working very well. Do everything that you can for making your partner recognize that he/she is a only person you love.

domain: psychology


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3.5 out of 4 stars
The Minutes is a palpable examination of the all too familiar topics relevant to today’s political and social climate in America. Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award-winning playwright Tracy Letts writes a scathing new comedy about small-town politics and real-world power exposing the ugliness behind some of our most closely-held American narratives. This play marks the 5th collaboration between Steppenwolf’s Artistic Director, Anna D. Shapiro, and ensemble member, Tracy Letts, and the seventh play by Letts to premiere at Steppenwolf.
Mr. Peel, played by Cliff Chamberlain, is an eager new council member in the fictional town of Big Cherry. Peel missed the last council meeting and this week fellow council member Mr. Carp is now absent. No one will answer Peel’s questions as to where Mr. Carp is. Zealous Mr. Peel repeatedly confronts the council for answers to no avail, as well as politely catches incorrect pronunciations from his fellow council members with the phrase “I don’t think you said that right”. This small detail in the writing suggests the mystery of Mr. Carp’s absence paired with a repetition of incorrectness hints at the fractured nature of the council and suggests something more sinister is at work.
Set in November, The Minutes mirrors themes of present day with the play’s premiere weekend just shy of the fictional timeframe. Letts asks the audience what are the lengths we would go to keep from becoming history’s losers. This topic is nothing short of an exploration of America’s morals and community values, which Letts is no stranger to with his other works, such as Linda Vista and August: Osage County. This performance is full to the brim of social commentary through Letts’ iconic dry satirical humor and quickly paced witty dialogue showcased by the incredible cast. A prime example of well structured writing that leaves undertones and a deeper context to be uncovered through every verbal exchange. With such a collection of colorful characters, the narrative zips from various mental topics thrown amidst lofty bills and council goals. The balance between small town community versus federal level professionalism is blurred through examples of childish personal quarrels and tones of corporate America’s shaming. For example, by asking questions of past events of the council is “taking up too much of our time to catch you up”. The electric surges the play contains are well done with sound design and original music by Andre Pluess, paired with lighting design by Brian MacDevitt. The directional light from the bay windows on the left side of the stage not only mimic the Oval office’s iconic windows, but are utilized in a brilliant way of the flash back sequence adding a golden hue often associated with the turning of time.
The all too close to home topics are robust with the aide of Edward Sobel’s detailed work in his dramaturgy. The historically based aspects of small town monuments housing America’s past and the all too real issues we now face with honoring a now inappropriate historical figure. The idea of comfort over truth arises from this piece and the fundamentals of community are questioned. These themes our America is faced with today. Mayor Superba, played by William Petersen, states “history is a verb”. The work’s four word summary. The consequences of the past affect us today and what we do today will affect us tomorrow. The ever moving wheel continues turning.
The scenic design by David Zinn excels in symbolism complimenting Letts’ compelling piece. While a marching band tune plays and under high arched ceilings, the oak semi circled desks of the Big Cherry council is looked down upon by three seated Greek women with olive branch and medical staff in hands. This choice in depiction of the goddesses being seated is a passive role for women, as well as their faces are looking away or a stoic demeanor eluding to the disappointment happening in the room in front of them. Additionally, these mural females are reflected in the three women of the council out of the eleven members with the power positions being held by three older white men. This very real-world issue is outright addressed in long time council member Mrs. Inness, portrayed by Penny Slusher, making an off the cuff comment about a sexual harassment incident occurring her first years on the council, which shows the lack of weighted concern of these type of issues. Mrs. Inness’ comment is then furthered illustrated later by inconsiderate and chauvinist character Mr. Breeding, played by Kevin Anderson, when he gropes one of the other female characters. Not only are the women silenced in this narrative and struggle for a voice, but also much of the counsel are silenced by what they have to lose allowing the injustice and persecution to reign supreme.
While this play unabashedly questions the morality of our own history. It suggests the need to self-examine in order to move forward honestly and truthfully. Those who are uncomfortable with political commentary may find this hard to watch, but it is an unapologetic statement of where we stand as a national community in the face of our own mistakes and history. Tracey Letts’ work is well worth the watch and a thought provoking piece that is highly relevant to the climate in which we live today.
Mary Crylen is a photographer and writer based in Chicago. She is an alum of Southern Illinois University of Carbondale with dual degrees in English and Photography. She possesses a sincere passion for the arts and believes zeal shows through work. Follow her on Twitter!

domain: artistic


Changpeng Zhao, CEO of Binance, the world’s largest crypto exchange, has announced eight new investment deals. Meanwhile, the investment amounts are not very large. However, Binance CEO sees these as ‘good projects’. Also, Binance has announced an ‘industry recovery fund’ to help the market recover from the FTX crash.
Binance invests in 8 new crypto projects it sees potential
Changpeng Zhao, founder of cryptocurrency exchange Binance, announced that Binanace has recently signed eight new deals. He emphasizes that although the investment amount is relatively low, the projects are promising for the Binance team. CZ shared the following statement on Twitter:
We just signed 8 investment agreements. All small amounts, but good projects in my opinion.
During Abu Dhabi Finance Week, Changpeng Zhao noted that each project is unique. He also stated that it is quite different from the others and has many potentials. He believes that his tokens will undoubtedly skyrocket. That’s why she decided to fund them directly.
Exchange CEO CZ is working for the stability of the crypto market!
CZ took Abu Dhabi Finance Week to a whole new level with announcements, deal signings, and most importantly, the Abu Dhabi government’s obtaining a Financial Services Authorization from the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA). Obtaining this permit has enabled Binance to officially operate a range of financial services in Abu Dhabi, the financial hub of the UAE capital.
Investors and users in the crypto ecosystem are in the midst of uncertainty due to the collapse of Sam Bankman-Fried’s crypto exchange FTX. That’s why CZ has declared an ‘industry recovery fund’ to overcome this fear. CZ created the Fund to support a fundamentally sound crypto project that is currently suffering from liquidity issues. Regarding the matter, Zhao made the following statement:
To further mitigate the cascading negative impact of FTX, Binance is creating an industry recovery fund to assist projects that are normally strong but are in a liquidity crisis.
cryptocoin.comAs you follow, there are reports that Binance is preparing to offer a buyout for Voyager Digital, which is currently in bankruptcy. There were also allegations that CZ had begun investigating another troubled firm, Genesis. Accordingly, CZ is considering making a bid for Genesis’ loan assets.
“Binance will focus on its own token”
However, Zhao mentioned that Binance will focus on the exchange’s native token, BNB. He also states that a series of upgrades and additional announcements are waiting for the BNB token that will unlock many new achievements for the company and the crypto landscape.
Contact us to be instantly informed about the last minute developments. twitter‘in, Facebookin and InstagramFollow and Telegram and YouTube join our channel!
Risk Disclosure: The articles and articles on Kriptokoin.com do not constitute investment advice. Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies are high-risk assets, and you should do your own research and due diligence before investing in these currencies. You can lose some or all of your money by investing in Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies. Remember that your transfers and transactions are at your own risk and any losses that may occur are your responsibility. Cryptokoin.com does not recommend buying or selling any cryptocurrencies or digital assets, nor is Kriptokoin.com an investment advisor. For this reason, Kriptokoin.com and the authors of the articles on the site cannot be held responsible for your investment decisions. Readers should do their own research before taking any action regarding the company, assets or services in this article.
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Last Updated on June 9, 2017 by Taylor Welshe
Texas’ charm goes beyond its fame as being home to cowboys; at its core are plenty of things to do, sights to see, and attractions to enjoy. Starting from its scenic landscapes comprising of rugged hills, lush forests, desert land, charming prairies, green grasslands, and miles of coastland to its diverse and rich culture, its residents really do have a lot to thank for. And the different beautiful cities it has, including Austin, Corpus Christi, and Forth Worth, offer home buyers a great place to live and establish a family in. (Source: Livability.com)
Add to all these the state’s low cost of living, and there’s no wonder why it garners its fair share of real property investors. (Source: Sperling’s Best Places)
Affordability of homes in the state
A lot of the residents of The Lone Star State take pride in the fact that they have their very own homes. Home ownership rating here is at 61.9%. (Source: U. S. Bureau of Census)
One factor that greatly contributes to this is the affordability of homes. The median home value in the state is $163,100, whereas the countrywide median is $195,300. (Source: Zillow)
House prices and values still depend on the specific type of dwelling though. The lowest-cost kind of residential property here are single-family homes, which have an average value of $138,403.00. Next are PUD homes, the values of which average to $149,612.99, then townhomes at $152,753.52. The most expensive are condominiums at $193,621.80.
Buying a house through a mortgage
Majority of home buyers can only afford to make this big purchase through a financing service. The most common way to buy a house is through a mortgage, which are basically loans designed for this particular purpose. It comes in two primary forms, namely: fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgages.
Prior to housing loan application, consumers should first establish the following:
- Price of a house they can afford
- How much down payment they can and should make
- Length of time they will occupy the house
- Current and future income
- FICO score
It’s important to take these into careful consideration, as these will help them determine which of the two types of mortgages best suit their finances, needs, and preferences.
Comparing rates can make a huge difference
Since home buying and ownership comes with long-term expenses, borrowers should implement strategies that will help them minimize their housing loan costs.
One of the most effective ways to avoid unnecessary expenses that can lead to repayment difficulties is to compare mortgage offers, particularly the interest rates. The smallest difference can already mean savings of thousands of dollars. By choosing the lowest-rate loan, consumers can already reduce their chances of foreclosure or bankruptcy.
Down payment 101
Another good way to trim mortgage costs is to make a down payment of at least 20% on the property. This means paying off 1/5th of the house’s selling price. There are several good reasons to do this.
Firstly, it minimizes the mortgage amount one needs to borrow. The smaller the loan, the smaller the amount of money that a lender can apply interest on. In other words, borrowers would spend less towards just paying interest.
Also, it eliminates the need to purchase mortgage insurance, the cost of which can easily and quickly add up over the life of a loan.
Although home buying in the state is more affordable than in other parts of the nation, many consumers may still have some difficulties securing a mortgage or keeping up with their loan repayment.
In this case, they should get in touch with the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA), which offers mortgage assistance for first-time buyers, including the program called “My First Texas Home.” Those who qualify for this can secure a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage with a lower interest rate. Borrowers can also use up to 5% of the loan amount for making a down payment or paying for closing costs.
Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs
Department of Housing and Urban Development

domain: finance


Firefighters are working to determine the cause of an East Hills fire that left one woman dead early Friday morning.
A firefighter was hurt while responding to a fire at a duplex in the South Side Slopes overnight.
Police are investigating after a man was found naked and burned in his apartment Thursday morning.
Investigators are trying to determine the cause of a fire at the City Towing Company Tuesday night.
A dog’s sense of smell is said to be a thousand times stronger than a human’s. So a well-trained canine can be a handy partner at a fire scene.
Firefighters are putting out hot spots after massive 5-alarm Oakland apartment fire.


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FOLLOW THE READER: Inviting guest house in colonial Mexico
I spent a great week this summer in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, in the guest room of an expat's charming and colorful Mexican home.
Each morning I had a full breakfast of my choice. My favorite was the most flavorful fruit I've ever had with yogurt and granola, pan dulce, fresh orange juice and coffee. Every evening during the week, a pastry truck stopped on the corner.
The house was comfortable, cheerful and clean. My room had twin beds, private bath with shower, a desk and access to a flower-filled patio. I had free use of the TV in the cozy living room.
The house is a 15-minute walk to the town center (Jardin) and five minutes to the Instituto Allende. There were lots of shops along the way to town, and buses and taxis were readily available.
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I paid $35 U.S. a night; the price for two people is $45.
Vivian Lohmeyer, the hostess, was easy-going, friendly and helpful, but not intrusive.

domain: travel


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The 41-year-old mom shared a sweet photo of herself and her two-year-old, Katherine (Kit, for short), on Instagram. In the caption, she explained that her daughter is her reason for voting in this year’s U.S. election.
She wrote, “#imvotingfor my daughter Kit. I want her to grow up with leaders who think and speak with integrity. Who show that measured and thoughtful responses are not a sign of weakness. I want her to see that her elected leaders can be the children of immigrants, as her mom is. But most importantly, I want her to see a President and Vice President whose capacity for empathy is their greatest quality.”
Katherine is seen in patterned pajamas as she snuggles with her mom, who's sporting a casual, all-black ensemble. The mother-daughter duo appear to be in Kaling's living room, which features a bright fuchsia couch, bright green curtains, an embroidered throw pillow, a pink and white lamp and a colorful rug (clearly, Kaling loves her pinks).
The Mindy Project star recently revealed that she secretly gave birth to her second child, a son, in September. In an episode of The Late Show With Stephen Colbert, she said, "I gave birth to a baby boy on September 3rd. This is news to a lot of people. It's true!"
She continued, "His name is Spencer. I forgot the most important part of it."
It comes as no surprise that the mother of two kept her second pregnancy under wraps, since she's known for maintaining privacy when it comes to her personal life. But even so, we'll keep enjoying the few glimpses that we do get of her daughter on Instagram, whether it's a pic of them cuddling or a photo of their sparkly matching shoes.
Keep those snaps coming, Mindy!


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Forbes: Titans among world's most valuable teams
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The Tennessee Titans are among the world's most valuable sports franchises, according to a new annual analysis by Forbes.
The Titans are the world's No. 32 most valuable franchise, with a value of $964 million. All 32 NFL teams made the list.
Manchester United, the Premier League soccer team, topped Forbes' list, with a value of $2.23 billion, followed by Real Madrid (another soccer team, valued at $1.88 billion) and the New York Yankees and Dallas Cowboys (which tied with an estimated value of $1.85 billion).
You can read Forbes' full rundown here.
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Comfort Inns Ellisville hotels are listed below. Search for cheap and discount Comfort Inns hotel prices in Ellisville, MS for your family, individual or group travels. We list the best Comfort Inns Ellisville hotels/lodging so you can review the Ellisville Comfort Inns hotel list below to find the perfect place.
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The Quarterly of the Texas State Historical Association, Volume 14, July 1910 - April, 1911 Page: 113
The following text was automatically extracted from the image on this page using optical character recognition software:
The City of Austin from 1889 to 1865.
THE CITY OF AUSTIN FROM 1839 TO 1865
ALEX. W. TERRELL
The ground on which the City of Austin is built was selected
as the proper place for the Capital of the Republic of Texas in
1839, six years before annexation to the United States.
How it happened that the seat of government was thus lo-
cated, what public houses were then built for the Republic, when
and how they were erected, and other matters of public inter-
est connected with the early history of Austin should be made
known to this generation before a knowledge of them fades into
vague tradition. Many events that illustrate the conditions that
surrounded the settlers on the upper Colorado over seventy years
ago were of deep interest to them, but have never been recorded
on the elevated plane of general history.
When I moved to Austin fifty-eight years ago, nearly all of
the pioneer citizens of Austin's Colony were living; many of them
I knew, as I did also all the Presidents of the Republic and gov-
ernors of the State except Anson Jones.
General Lamar, in the autumn of 1837 or 1838, weary with
official duties, came to the upper Colorado on a buffalo hunt. He
procured an escort of six rangers at the old fort that stood in
Fort Prairie, six miles below where Austin now is. Among'them
were James O. Rice and Willis Avery, both of whom long after-
wards became my clients. From them and from the Rev. Edward
Fontaine (a great-grandson of Patrick Henry), then the Epis-
copal minister in Austin, who for years was my friend and neigh-
bor, I learned what I am about to state regarding Lamar's buffalo
hunt and other matters.
Jacob Harrell was then the only white frontier settler where
Austin is located, and no white man lived on the waters of the
Colorado above him. His cabin, and a stockade made of split
logs to protect his horses from the Indians, were built at the
mouth of Shoal Creek, near the river ford. There Lamar and
Fontaine (who was his private secretary), and their ranger escort
camped for the night, and were awakened next morning early by
Jake Harrell's little son, who told them that the prairie was full
Here’s what’s next.
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Reference the current page of this Periodical.
Texas State Historical Association. The Quarterly of the Texas State Historical Association, Volume 14, July 1910 - April, 1911, periodical, 1911; Austin, Texas. (texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth101054/m1/127/?rotate=270: accessed May 25, 2018), University of North Texas Libraries, The Portal to Texas History, texashistory.unt.edu; crediting Texas State Historical Association.

domain: history


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Massive Disneyland Attraction Database
The Hip and Veil's Smokehouse attraction during refurbishment
Hip and Veil's Smokehouse
July 21, 1976
Avg. queue length:
Nobody can figure out what the goal of Hip and Veil's Smokehouse is. It was once a fun place with things to play on, but lawers had it taken away to steal some of the fun from Disneyland.
- If you are intolerant of branches, then you shouldn't spend too much time within range of this attraction.
- Minimum height 40".
- Must be at least 39" tall and 23 years old to ride on the Holidays.
- Expectant mothers should ride.
- Guests may get very poor on this attraction.
- This was Tigger's partially favorite attraction.
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domain: entertainment


text:
Outspoken political commentator and former Congressional Rep. Tulsi Gabbard responded to progressive Democrat Rep. Cori Bush’s attack on Sen. Joe Manchin, in which Bush accused the West Virginia senator of being “anti-black, anti-child, anti-woman, and anti-immigrant.”
Speaking to Fox News host Steve Hilton, Gabbard said that Bush’s attack was rooted in a “lack of a spiritual foundation.”
“We are all brothers and sisters, we’re all connected. And I come to you with respect, and love and care,” said Gabbard. “And that’s really what it comes down to, everyone wants to be happy. And so it’s no wonder that we find ourselves in a place where we are miserable and we are stressed out and frustrated when it seems like everywhere we turn we see politicians, social media, mainstream media, fomenting fear and anger, hatred, divisiveness, racializing, everything.”
“So when we have leaders who step forward, who sincerely want to do what’s right for the people, who care and treat us with respect, allowing the light of God’s love to shine through, this is where we see there is cause for hope, and optimism and the ability for us to come together as a people to move forward,” she continued.
Hilton agreed with Gabbard’s remarks, stating that while politics is about disagreement, it doesn’t require anyone to dehumanize their opponents.
“Exactly. And I just want to put, just put this up on screen. So it was the exact opposite of what you’re talking about. But I think it’s important. I’d love your response. It’s such an important thing for everyone to see that this is the way some Democrats speak. This is Cori Bush, okay, Representative Cori Bush, speaking about a disagreement with Joe Manchin, her colleague on the spending bill; this is how she put it: ‘Joe Manchin, in opposition to the Build Back Better Act is anti-black, anti-child, anti-woman, anti-immigrant.’ I saw that and I thought, honestly, like, you can have legitimate disagreements over policy.”
“Yes,” Gabbard replied.
“Politics is about disagreement, and who’s got the best plan and so on. But you don’t have to do it like that, to call someone you disagree, “anti-black, anti-woman.” I just couldn’t believe that,” said Hilton.
“It really just shows again, that this is a symptom of a deeper, a lack of a spiritual foundation,” Gabbard said, “where if you’re not able to see someone, regardless of party politics, regardless of your position, whether you agree or disagree, if you’re not able to see another person, as a child of God, as someone that you can respect at that fundamental level, as a fellow American, then this is where we see all of this darkness coming from.”
“And so it’s no wonder as you were talking about the results in Virginia, that people chose to respond positively towards that message of hope, and optimism for our future, that message of coming together. That message of care and respect for all people,” Gabbard added. “And this is again, this is where, this is where I find hope for our future. If we go back to those fundamental values and principles of who we really are, then this is how we can come together.”


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Extension Agent II - Kent County, Delaware
The University of Delaware Cooperative Extension
Employment type: Full-Time
Job Location: Dover, Delaware
Application Deadline: March 31, 2019
CONTEXT OF THE JOB:
Agriculture is a major industry in Delaware and on the Delmarva (Delaware-Maryland-Virginia) peninsula. In this region, poultry, grain crops, fresh market vegetables, and processing vegetables are the primary agricultural commodities. This position is based in Kent County, Delaware, which has over 800 farms with 170,000 acres in production and agricultural sales over $250 million. Main field crops are corn (50,000 acres, 21,000 irrigated), soybeans (65,000 acres), wheat and barley (42,000 acres). Kent County is in the top 2 percent of 3,079 U.S. counties in value of vegetables sold with sweet corn, lima beans, peas, and cucumbers being major crops (17,000 acres). There are 200 poultry farms that raise over 7,000,000 chickens yearly for meat. Kent County also has 6,000 acres of forage crops supporting dairy, beef and equine operations. The state capital (Dover) and a major US Air Force base are located in the county. It is home to one university (Delaware State) and one college (Wesley) and branch campuses of the Delaware Technical and Community College, the University of Delaware, and Wilmington University. It has a population of 176,000 (2017).
The University of Delaware Cooperative Extension serves as the link between the College of Agriculture & Natural Resources and local communities. Delaware Cooperative Extension delivers high quality, science-based information in the areas of agriculture, horticulture, youth development, and family and consumer sciences. This position will help support the agricultural community in Delaware, as part of a multi-disciplinary team of faculty and professionals in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources.
The Agriculture Agent serves as a recognized local resource in commercial agriculture production. Working closely with the University of Delaware Cooperative Extension Agriculture team, the Agriculture Agent will identify and address important agriculture issues for farmers, crop consultants, and the commercial agriculture industry. Agricultural issues the Agent can expect to work on include agronomic and vegetable crop production, integrated pest management, irrigation, pasture and hay production, nutrient management, and business development. This may include frequent site visits, development and delivery of agricultural workshops in commercial crop production, participating in annual meetings such as Delaware Ag Week and Mid-Atlantic Crop Management School, and working together with the soil-testing laboratory and plant diagnostic clinic to provide technical assistance and services to industry clientele. This position will be located at the University of Delaware Paradee Building in Dover, Delaware and will report to the Kent County Extension Director.
Identify critical areas of concern related to commercial crop production in Kent County, Delaware. Plan, develop, and implement educational programs using science-based information to help address and resolve issues in the areas of commercial field crop production (corn, soybeans, small grains), commercial vegetable crop production (sweet corn, lima beans, and other vegetables), and forage crop management (hay and pasture).
Employ a variety of educational delivery methods to help clientele (farmers, agriculture industry) understand and adopt new practices, procedures, and skills based on current science. Delivery methods include on-site visits, newsletters, fact sheets, field demonstrations and tours, field trials, educational meetings, workshops, short courses, the Delaware Agronomy Blog and the UD Extension website.
Collaborate with other county-based Extension staff and with the various agricultural Extension Specialists in Delaware and the region. Responsibilities may include conducting applied field research and participating in educational meetings and workshops such as Delaware Agriculture Week and Mid-Atlantic Crop Management School.
Work closely with various state and federal agencies including the Delaware Department of Agriculture, Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, Kent Conservation District, Farm Service Agency, and the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. The Agent will also work with the local Farm Bureau, Delaware Soybean Board, and other producer organizations.
Document and track program impact based on stated objectives, develop effective evaluation techniques, and enter this information into internal tracking software.
Continue to develop own professional expertise and mentor less experienced Extension staff.
Implement initiatives in support of the affirmative action plan; ensure equal opportunity and access to Extension programs for all individuals.
Bachelor’s degree plus four years’ experience or Master’s degree plus two years’ experience, in Extension teaching, research or closely related field in agronomy, soils, crops, or other related area.
Ability to conduct applied research related to environmentally and economically viable agricultural production.
Experience in developing and delivering educational programs to the public.
Evidence of service and demonstrated leadership skills working with the agricultural private sector, trade organizations, universities, and state and federal agencies.
Successful record of forming strong working relationships with producers, agricultural organizations, academic colleagues, and the public.
Effective communication, public relations, and interpersonal skills.
Knowledge of Extension programming which involves responding to clientele and community needs.
Proficient computer and technological skills including use of software for word processing, spreadsheets, presentations and website updates.
Grant writing experience preferred.
This position requires some irregular work hours, such as occasional nighttime and weekend work.
Access to private reliable means of transportation. If using personal vehicle, mileage will be reimbursed.
Equal Employment Opportunity
The University of Delaware is an Equal Opportunity Employer which encourages applications from Minority Group Members, Women, Individuals with Disabilities and Veterans. The University's Notice of Non-Discrimination can be found at http://www.udel.edu/aboutus/legalnotices.html
Visit www.udel.edu/udjobs. Under Staff jobs find Job ID 106291 – Extension Agent II, Kent County.

domain: agronomy


text:
Amazingly detailed and highly articulated snap-together kit! Includes metallic gold accent decals. Display stand not included.
Please note: This item ships to us direct from Japan - packaging, promotional materials, and booklets may be in Japanese only. Images are for reference only and actual product appearance may vary
Scale: 1/100Item Size/Weight: 39.0cm x 31.0cm x 12.5cm / 1170gManufacturer: BANDAI

domain: design


text:
4 edition of ADHD/hyperactivity found in the catalog.
|LC Classifications||IN PROCESS (ONLINE)|
|The Physical Object|
|Number of Pages||178|
A genealogy of the Signers of the Declaration of Independence
Geography made easy
Universal military training.
Souvenir of Luxor.
The Mechanical behavior of salt
Marie of the Incarnation
origin of the Hebrew sacrificial system
Annual bulletin of historical literature.
Annual summary of investigations relating to reading 1978/1979 - 1986/1987
Tarot Of Butterflies
Descubre Tu Poder Interno
This book does a good job covering the basics, but if you are already an educated parent about ADD and strategies, it offers nothing new or advanced. I'd say this book might be helpful ADHD/hyperactivity book a parent who has a child agedand who knows very little about ADD.
The sticker charts in the book are definitely geared toward younger by: 8. Adhd-Hyperactivity: A Consumer's Guide Paperback – September 1, by Michael Gordon (Author) See all 2 formats and editions Hide other formats and editions.
Price New from Used from Paperback "Please retry" — $ $ Price: $ In young children with ADHD, hyperactivity-impulsivity is the most predominant symptom. As a child reaches elementary school, the symptom of inattention may become more ADHD/hyperactivity book and cause the child to struggle academically.
In adolescence, hyperactivity seems to lessen ADHD/hyperactivity book may show more often as feelings of restlessness or fidgeting, but.
ADHD/Hyperactivity book. Read reviews ADHD/hyperactivity book world’s largest community for ADHD/hyperactivity book 0.
Teaching Children With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: Instructional Strategies and Practices 5 and techniques that follow pertain to the instructional process in general (across subject areas); strategies for specific subject ADHD/hyperactivity book appear in the subsequent subsection “Individualizing Instructional Practices.”.
A Book for All the Stops in Your Life (The Little Engine That Could) What to Expect When Parenting Children ADHD/hyperactivity book ADHD: ADHD/hyperactivity book 9-step plan to master the struggles and triumphs of parenting a child with ADHD Autism: 44 Ways to Understanding- Aspergers Syndrome, ADHD.
Your ADHD/hyperactivity book can't sit still. He's talking a mile a minute. Is he just a high-energy kid. Or does he have ADHD/hyperactivity book. Hyperactivity is just one sign of who have it seem to always be on the ADHD/hyperactivity book Stephanie Watson.
Children with ADHD/hyperactivity may also have a sensitivity to additives and preservatives. A separate investigation by the Hyperactive Children’s Support Group found that 89 per cent of children with ADHD reacted to food colourings, 72 per cent to flavourings, 60 per cent to MSG, 45 per cent to all synthetic additives, 50 per cent to cow.
Education and Rehabilitative Services, Office of Special Education Programs, Identifying and Treating Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Resource for ADHD/hyperactivity book and Home, Washington, D.C., To order copies of this report, write to: ED Pubs, Education Publications Center, U.S.
Department of Education, P. Box ADHD is a ADHD/hyperactivity book that makes it difficult for a person to pay attention and control impulsive behaviors. He or she may also be restless and almost constantly active.
ADHD is not just a childhood disorder. Although the symptoms of ADHD begin in childhood, ADHD can continue through adolescence and adulthood.
Even though hyperactivity tends to. Jumpin' Johnny Get Back to Work. A Child’s Guide to ADHD/Hyperactivity. Joey Pigza Loses Control. Learning to ADHD/hyperactivity book Down ADHD/hyperactivity book Pay Attention: A Book for Kids About ADHD.
Kathleen G. Nadeau. Otto Learns About His Medicine: A Story About Medication for Children with ADHD. Attention Girls. A Guide to Learn All About Your AD/HD. Patricia ADHD/hyperactivity book. : Keath Low. disorder. Children with oppositional defiant disorder ADHD/hyperactivity book to lose their temper easily and annoy people on purpose and are defiant and hostileFile Size: KB.
Some of the best books on ADHD for adults who are diagnosed with the condition, think they may have symptoms of ADHD, or simply want to learn more. This page highlights popular books on ADHD for adults which are written by authors who have ADHD themselves, including Katherine Ellison, Dr.
Edward Hallowell and Dr. John Ratey. I Would If I Could book. Read reviews from world’s largest community for readers. I Would If I Could: A Teenager's Guide to Adhd/Hyperactivity by. Michael Gordon, Janet Jimco (Illustrator) really liked it Rating details 2 ratings 0 reviews Get A Copy.4/5(2).
The ADD/ADHD Checklist: a Practical Reference for Parents and Teachers, 2nd Edition. Sandra Rief, $ Presented in a concise, easy-to-read checklist format, The ADD/ADHD Checklist is packed with practical advice and information on a wide range of topics, including what we do and don't know about ADHD, probable causes, critical elements for school success, the most commonly prescribed.
by James Greenblat, MD “Finally Focused is one of the smartest books on ADHD in many years. It is filled with a clear, effective, science-based program that gives you all the building blocks to treat ADHD naturally and effectively.
Boy was a wrong. He read the whole book in 10 minutes and all he got from it was kids with adhd are hyper. (Duh) very disappointed My Brother's a World-Class Pain: A Sibling's Guide to Adhd-Hyperactivity The Insider's Guide to ADHD: Adults with ADHD Reveal the Secret to Parenting Kids with ADHD I.
Buy ADHD/Hyperactivity: A Consumer's Guide for Parents and Teachers by Michael Gordon online at Alibris. We have new and used copies available, in 1 editions - starting at $ Shop now. COVID Resources. Reliable information about the coronavirus (COVID) is available from the World Health Organization (current situation, international travel).Numerous and frequently-updated resource results are available from this ’s WebJunction has pulled together information and resources to assist library staff as they consider how to handle coronavirus.
The book, Learning to Slow Down and Pay Attention, by Kathleen G. Nadeau, Ph.D. and Ellen B. Dixon, Ph.D., and illustrated by John R. Rose is a wonderful book for children with ADHD. This book is especially for children ages five to ten. This book gives children a checklist of their problems, and tells how to solve them.
Dr. James Greenblatt has seen thousands of children and adults struggling with the symptoms of ADHD – hyperactivity, inattentiveness, impulsiveness, and often irritability and combativeness.
Rather than simply prescribing medication for their ADHD symptoms, he tailors remedies to his patients’ individual needs, detecting and treating the Brand: Potter/Ten Speed/Harmony/Rodale.
attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: [MIM*] a behavioral disorder manifested by developmentally inappropriate degrees of inattentiveness (short attention span, distractability, inability to complete tasks, difficulty in following directions), impulsiveness (acting without due reflection), and hyperactivity (restlessness, fidgeting.
My daughter, Seren, was just six years old when she was diagnosed with ADHD, anxiety, and oppositional defiant disorder four years ago. When the psychologist read out the three main Author: Susy Parker. In Howard B. Wigglebottom Listens to His Heart, the second book in the Howard B.
Wigglebottom series, Howard finds, like our children with ADHD often do, that he hops to beat of a different drummer. Or, in this case, he : Kay Marner. Read an Excerpt. FOREWORD. The time to view Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder through a new lens is long overdue.
Dale Archer’s The ADHD Advantage redefines all but the most severe cases of ADHD as expectable difference, not medical diagnosis.
Hopefully, his work will help reverse the dangerous global trend that seeks to medicalize individual variability and medicate it into /5(2).
The symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can be categorised into 2 types of behavioural problems: inattentiveness, and hyperactivity and impulsiveness. Most people with ADHD have problems that fall into both these categories, but this is not always the case.
Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key, written by Jack Gantos as a YA book for kids 10 yrs. and older. This is the first in a series of four books about a boy who is a handful. Brilliantly written from Joey's viewpoint, Gantos captures with great authenticity Joey's out-of-control world with Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD).
Wolraich ML, Lindgren S, Stromquist A. et al. Stimulant medication use by primary care physicians in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity Cited by: Discover librarian-selected research resources on Teaching Students with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) from the Questia online library, including full-text online books, academic journals, magazines, newspapers and more.
Hyperactive kids with ADHD are always on the go, according to Roberto Olivardia, Ph.D, a clinical psychologist and clinical instructor in the department of. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a mental disorder of the neurodevelopmental type.
It is characterized by difficulty paying attention, excessive activity and acting without regards to consequences, which are otherwise not appropriate for a person's age.
Some individuals with ADHD also display difficulty regulating emotions. For a diagnosis, the symptoms should appear before a Causes: Both genetic and environmental factors.
If you are a woman who has been diagnosed with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or the parent of a girl with the condition, this book offers help.
Questions & Answers About Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Women and Girls provides authoritative, practical answers to common questions about this disorder. 10 Challenges (and Solutions) for Daily Life With Adult ADHD.
Adult ADHD symptoms may make it hard to stick to a schedule or even keep up with keys and your cellphone. The following information about ADHD is taken from my new book “Own Your ADHD – Discover Your True Potential.” BUY HERE.
The three criteria for an ADHD. Jacqueline Sinfield is an ADHD coach, and the author of "Untapped Brilliance, How to Reach Your Full Potential As An Adult With ADHD." Steven Gans, MD is board-certified in psychiatry and is an active supervisor, teacher, and mentor at Massachusetts General Hospital.
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is not a learning disability. Understanding ADHD (or ADD) in adults. Life can be a balancing act for any adult, but if you find yourself constantly late, disorganized, forgetful, and overwhelmed by your responsibilities, you may have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), previously known as ADD.
You may notice the word "impulsivity" is not included in the ADHD diagnostic label. Nonetheless, it is a symptom of ADHD. It should be noted that poor impulse control is a symptom of many psychiatric disorders.
Therefore, it is not a characteristic unique to ADHD. When impulsivity is paired with hyperactivity, a person appears to act without.

domain: library


The French Air Force has ordered an additional heavy twin Airbus H225M helicopter to add to its existing fleet of 10. It will be delivered in a configuration that allows interoperability with the rest of the fleet, Airbus Helicopters said, and will be capable of in-flight refueling.
The aircraft will be based in Cazaux and used for special forces and search-and-rescue missions.
“The H225M is a real military asset thanks to its versatility and its excellent range,” said Alexandra Cros, vice president and head of governmental affairs France for Airbus Helicopters. “Operational from ships and land with an all-weather capability and takeoff in less than five minutes, it’s always ready for assignment,” she added.
More than 180 H225M rotorcraft have been ordered, with recent customers including Kuwait, Singapore, Hungary and Indonesia.


text: Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus Schistosoma haematobium (10)]. to determine whether different pre-treatment schistosome infection levels and transmission dynamics altered the effects of PZQ treatment on allergen-specific antibody responses. To investigate this, the study was conducted in two villages with differing schistosome infection levels. Levels BAY 61-3606 of IgE and IgG4 against schistosome adult worm and egg antigens as well as those against the house dust mite (Derp1) allergen C one of the most important allergen in clinical allergy (20) and prevalent in Zimbabwe (21) C were quantified before a single dose of PZQ was given and 6 weeks later. The aim was to investigate the dynamics of the relationship between atopic responses and schistosome-specific responses when pre-existing schistosome infection is cleared and newly acquired infection (if any) not yet patent (22) in human populations. The study focused on IgE and IgG4 antibody responses directed against schistosomes and the house dust mite because high levels of parasite-specific IgE are associated with resistance to infection/re-infection while parasite-specific IgG4 is believed to be a modulator of IgE effector responses (18,23,24). These antibodies are also important in clinical allergy where allergen-specific IgE antibodies are indicative of BAY 61-3606 an allergic phenotype (25), while IgG4 antibodies are associated with improvement in allergic symptoms following immunotherapy or natural recovery (26C28). The relative proportions of these antibodies (or the balance between them) are therefore an integral feature in humoral immunity against schistosomes (29C31) or predictors of scientific manifestations of atopy (28,32). We’ve already demonstrated within a prior research BAY 61-3606 that atopy is certainly slightly more frequent in people citizen in the reduced schistosome infections area set alongside the high infections region Rabbit Polyclonal to DRP1 (phospho-Ser637). (19). Furthermore, we reported the fact that degrees of atopic replies were connected with schistosome infection intensity negatively. Hence, we hypothesize that the result of treatment in the degrees of schistosome-specific and allergen-specific IgE and IgG4 replies will vary between your villages of different degrees of schistosome infections. Components AND Strategies Research style The scholarly research was comparative, contrasting the consequences of PZQ treatment in the degrees of atopic replies aswell as schistosome-specific antibody replies in high vs. low schistosome infections villages. Distinctions in infections levels reflect distinctions in infections transmitting rates and background of infections (33). Topics in the high infections village accumulate infections more rapidly, obtaining higher infections intensities at a young age group than their counterparts in the reduced infections village (33). Both villages one of them research are categorized as a higher infections region (schistosome prevalence > 50%) and a minimal infections BAY 61-3606 region (schistosome prevalence < 10%) predicated on the World Health Organizations guidelines for areas endemic for contamination (34). WHO recommends PZQ treatment schedules based on these transmission categories. Thus, the comparison made in this study is usually a representation of the field setting for the different levels of schistosome endemicity, allowing the comparison of the effects of PZQ treatment in these different populations. Study area and population The study was conducted in two villages, Magaya and Chitate, in the Mashonaland East Province of Zimbabwe where is usually endemic. In this area, as in most rural regions in Zimbabwe (35,36), the prevalence of soil-transmitted helminths and is low, while is the most prevalent helminth contamination. In addition, this study area was classified under the sporadic transmission regions with low transmission and malaria by a revised stratification based on national parasite prevalence surveys (37,38), Health Management Information Systems (HMIS) data, entomological data and expert opinion. The study villages are in close proximity within a 10 km range of each other, and villagers are of comparable ethnicity (Shona) and socioeconomic background (rural subsistence farmers). Safe water and sanitation coverage are equally poor in the villages (as assessed by questionnaire). The only difference.

domain: medical


Transmission of the coronavirus remains extremely high around Northwest Georgia, asserts Dr. Gary Voccio, Health Director for the Georgia Department of Public Health’s Northwest Health District. The positivity rate for Georgia currently stands at about 17.5 percent; here in Northwest Georgia, it is about 20 percent (and close to 30 percent in some counties). Hospitals around this region are seeing some of the highest numbers in cases since the coronavirus pandemic began, adds Dr. Voccio.
The new variant of the virus recently discovered in the US (including here in Georgia) poses an additional threat of increased cases and fatalities, indicates Dr. Voccio.
There is hope in the form of the coronavirus vaccine. However, the demand is greater than the supply at this time; therefore, all Northwest Georgians who wish to be vaccinated are urged by Dr. Voccio to be patient.
Dr. Voccio states that the district is currently hiring more clerks and nurses to assist with vaccinations in the 10-county Northwest Health District.
Get information about vaccination online at www.nwgapublichealth.org. The Northwest Health District is also on Facebook.


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On the way to our morning fishing trip, my fishing partner and I passed a country store advertising “BOILED PEANUTS.” That got me thinking.
Were it not so common, easy to find and even easier to use, peanut butter would rank above French truffles and Russian caviar as one of the world’s most flavorful food. Luckily, it’s something us commoners can afford and enjoy.
I love peanuts other ways, as well. Peanuts in the shell were a fall staple at the hunter check-in station where I used to work. A jar of dry roasted Planters is as good a snack as I can imagine. But boiled? I couldn’t imagine. Neither could Bill so we vowed we’d stop at Whisker’s Country Corner on the way back from fishing to investigate.
What we found was the an eclectic mix of tourist stop, local corner store, antique boutique and just a fun place to be. You could tell it wasn’t built. It evolved. It probably started as a roadside stand selling fresh produce and perhaps boiled peanuts. Then it just grew and took over the sturdy but somewhat ramshackle buildings, nearby. You can even get a haircut there! But this is a story about peanuts.
Store owner and chief peanut “boiler,” Peggy Stevenson didn’t share the exact recipe, but it involved raw peanuts in-the-shell, plenty of water a pinch or two of salt and, no doubt, a few secret herbs. Put it in a large roasting pan and let it stew for several hours - or all day, I suppose.
“Some people eat shell and all,” said Peggy. “They cook, but are stringy like celery. Most people peel off the shell, just as you would with roasted peanuts.”
|Peggy dispenses over 4 gallons of
boiled peanuts each day!
So with those instructions, Bill and I set off with our first sampling of this southern snack.
How were they? I agree with most people. Peel off the shell. I didn’t on the first one I sampled and it was indeed stringy. More than stringy, actually. Don’t do it. The rest I peeled. I say “peeled” because the process is a bit harder than cracking open a roasted peanut - more like peeling a cooked shrimp.
Inside, the peanuts were done perfectly. But no peanut flavor! Their texture was more that of a navy or lima bean cooked “al dente.” (Peanuts are a legume.) The flavor was more bean-like than anything. If you like navy beans, ham’n beans, black eyed peas and the like, you could easily become a boiled peanut fan. I do and I now am a fan. Unfortunately, until I get back to the Ozarks, I’ll have to make do with peanut butter.

domain: food


Antique violins are appreciated by musicians and collectors alike. These violins can be hundreds of years old and can sell for thousands, if not millions of dollars. These instruments are of great value because of their historical significance. There a numerous varieties of antique violins, many made by such consummate craftsmen as Amati, Stradivari, Vuillaume, Amati, Bergonzi, Guarneri, Gasparo da Salò, Stainer.The violins of these men are of great value and can sometimes be heard played by top performers in leading concert halls around the world.
Violins were first invented in Italy in the 16th Century. Some Stradivarius violins (his instruments are known by the Latin form of his name, or as “Strads” for short) are now played by top performers. Stradivarius violins were actually built by the 17th century Italian luthier Stradivari family, especially by Antonio Stradivari. Many argue that Stradivarius is the pinnacle of violins. A Stradivarius made in the 1680s, or during Stradivari’s Brescian period from 1690-1700, could be worth several hundred thousand dollars or more on auction, at today’s prices and some reproductions as with the Antonius Stradivarius cremonensis made in Czechoslovakia and Germany in the early and mid 1700s by a different maker are said to be worth between 2000 to 3000 dollars. Because only about 700 stadivarius violins are believed to exist, they are a premier investment instrument. Since there are many fake ones out there, the Stradivarius antique cello are authenticated. All real “Strads” have a label that states in Latin, “Antonius Stradivarius Cremonensis Faciebat Anno” (“made in Cremona by Antonio Stradivari”) with a date at the end of the inscription.
Another famous Italian violin making family were the Amati’s who flourished at Cremona from about 1549 to 1740. Andrea Amati was one of the earliest violin makers who created the Amati family legacy. Nicolo Amati is famous for improving the Amati violin by producing instruments capable of yielding greater power of tone. In fact, Antonio Stradivari as a child, served as an apprentice to Nicolo Amati, beginning his violin making career at the young age of 11. Unfortunately, very few Amati violins are in existence today, the few still intact are preserved carefully in museums.
A contemporary of the Amati’s was Jacob Stainer. Some historians claim, that Jakob Stainer spent some time in Cremona , perhaps working with Nicolo Amati. In any event, he was probably the most important Austrian violin maker whose model influenced violin making in Germany, parts of Italy and several other countries. Stainer’s violins have a very high curvature of the back and especially the top, you can see through the F holes of a Stainer when it is held horizontally. Stainer’s varnish is also famous, it is different from the Cremonese varnish but soft and beautiful , applied carefully , and enhancing the beauty of the wood. Stainer’s scrolls were also beautifully carved , sometimes with a lions head instead of the scroll. Johann Sebastian Bach left a Stainer violin among his prized possessions. Stainer’s instruments while comparatively rare today, however, are still cherished and can hold their own with the best of the Cremonese makers. At the end of the 18th century, collectors valued a Jacob Stainer violin four times more than a Stradivarius.


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COVID-19 changing how Catholic church handles Ash Wednesday
Ash Wednesday will look a little different this year due to COVID-19.
"It’s always a balancing of preserving what we always done. Our traditions, and how do we preserve them. While at the same time, being very mindful of What’s happening in the world,” Father Pablo Migone said.
The usual scenes of Ash Wednesday and the ceremonies that happen at churches across the globe will be changing in 2021.
The pandemic has presented plenty of challenges for everyone including the Catholic church. And now on this holy week, they’re getting creative.
“Parishes have the option that instead of placing ashes on the forehead like we usually do, the priest are allowed to sprinkle the ashes on top of people. That way we don’t make any contact,” Father Migone said.
What may sound like pandemic-inspired innovation, is actually tradition.
“It’s what’s commonly done in Europe. Here in the United States, the Catholic church has the tradition of placing the ashes right on the forehead where everybody can see it for the rest of the day,” Father Migone said.
The church is also debating how to handle communion and other traditions.
The father added that with the COVID-19 vaccine becoming more available, he looks forward to welcoming people back to the church.

domain: sociology


text:
‘Aviation industry contributes N137.9b to GDP’
THE Nigerian commercial aviation industry has contributed about $0.7 billion (N137.9 billion) to the Nigerian Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and projected investment of $12 billion in the short and medium term that would lead to passengers’ growth, between 12 and 25 million by 2018.
Additionally, the industry data revealed that Nigeria’s passenger traffic for inbound and outbound destinations soared to 21 million in 2014, surpassing the 2013 record by over 20 per cent.
According to the Head, Aviation Finance for Africa at Investec, Melanie Humphries, “There has been tremendous economic growth in Nigeria and with the increase in wealth and the expansion of trade and business opportunities, the demand for business travel has also expanded”.
He added: “The primary reason is that business aircraft are a necessary tool for many high net worth individuals and corporates that do business in and around Africa. Poor regional connectivity and limited infrastructure means that air travel is still the preferred mode of transport for passengers and cargo – presenting an opportunity for the aviation industry in Nigeria and Africa as a whole.
“In fact, business jets in Africa, and the access, predictability and passenger safety they provide, are playing a critical role in realising the continent’s growth potential.”
Furthermore, he stated that the African business aviation market has been resilient through the global financial crisis and new aircraft sales fared better than developed markets such as Europe and North America.
He said: “Demand for business aircraft is highly correlated to wealth creation, which of course is dependent on economic growth. The African fleet has more than doubled since 2000 and now comprises around 2.4 per cent of the world corporate jet population and as business jets are increasingly being seen as an productive business tool, the long-term prospects for business aviation remain strong”.
According to the statistics, Africa’s business jet fleet has more than doubled in the last 10 years, noting that Africa’s two largest business aircraft registries, South Africa and Nigeria, account for over 50 per cent of the entire fleet of business aircraft in all of Africa.
Also, it projected that between 2014 and 2033, 685 business jet deliveries are expected in this region, with a fleet compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5 per cent over the forecast period.
It disclosed that commercial air transport supports 6.9 million jobs and $80.5 billion in GDP in Africa, while it forecasted that the number of jobs supported by aviation and tourism would grow to 10.5 million by 2032, a 51 per cent increase. Moreover, the contribution to GDP is forecast to grow to $168.7 billion by 2032, a 109 per cent increase on 2012 figures.


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Netflix has released a new documentary focusing on social media influencers and what it means to be famous in a digital world. From producer and filmmaker Bert Marcus, The American Meme follows a handful of celebrities as they discuss the volatile nature of social media fame.
Paris Hilton, Josh “the Fat Jew” Ostrovsky, Vine star Brittany Furlan, and Kirill “the Slut Whisperer” Bichutsky are the key subjects of the doc, while Emily Ratajkowski, DJ Khaled, and Hailey Baldwin also feature, delving into what it means to be your own brand and what happens when things go wrong.
Press play above to watch the American Meme trailer, as the documentary is currently streaming on Netflix.
Up next, get a first look at Netflix and BBC's forthcoming adaptation of Richard Adams’ ‘Watership Down.’


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Unformatted text preview: Running head: ENERGY SUMMARY 1 Energy Summary Eddie Baez SCI/362 October 11, 2011 Dr. Paul Harder ENERGY SUMMARY 2 Energy Summary The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, in Antarctica, has been a protected home to many species of animals since 1980. Congress passed a bill to declare it protected territory because of all the wildlife. Oil is the energy source that many supporters believe exists in large abundance but needs to be explored and developed. The Department of the Interior was granted permission to determine the potential of oil in the region, but could only be explored and developed if granted permission by Congress. Conservationists believe that there would be too much irreversible damage to the refuge and would destroy the habitat of many species of animals and living organisms. The United States finds itself spending over half of its energy budget on foreign oil, and feels that if there was more exploration and developing of domestic oil, it would reduce the...
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This note was uploaded on 12/19/2011 for the course SCIENCE 362 taught by Professor Staff during the Fall '10 term at Texas A&M.
- Fall '10

domain: geography


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You might think casting Bumblebee's voice in Transformers: The Last Knight involved an extensive search for an well-recognized actor who embodied both the character's youthful spirit and age-old wisdom. You know, maybe a Jon Hamm or Zach Braff.
After all, hearing Bumblebee speak with his real voice, rather than the amalgamation of radio signals he was forced to use because of a battle injury, is a pretty big deal for #Transformers fans. For the franchise, now more than 10 years old, it's a huge reveal. And any huge reveal calls for fireworks, champagne and a bold headline, right? Brad Pitt is the voice of Bumblebee! Or some such thing.
Except, not this time. Contrary to the franchise's signature bombast — flying shrapnel, exploding Decepticons and melodramatic Autobots — Bumblebee's voice casting was pretty low-key and kinda out of nowhere. It even caught the film's creative team by surprise, which is incredibly refreshing.
Finding Bumblebee's Voice
Once producers decided it was time for audiences to hear Bumblebee speak in his natural voice, the creative team was handed a Herculean task. They knew the Autobot would sound young, buoyant and badass, but he couldn't be too much of a teenager. After all, Bumblebee is battle tested and world weary. He's also hundreds of years old.
While that left a lot of room for creative debate, everyone was in agreement on one point: He couldn't sound anything like Optimus Prime. Executive producer Lorenzo di Bonaventura revealed to MTV News:
"You really want to match the love you have for the character and also be very distinguishable from Optimus. He's a little out of control, but he's really warm and emotional, so trying to find that voice was not simple. We went through a lot of ideas.”
So where did the Transformers' creative team discover the actor who is now and forever the voice of Bumblebee? Turns out, much like the Transformers, he was hiding among the production crew all along.
The Bumblebee Actor Is More Than Meets The Eye
Prior to casting, sound designer Erik Aadahl recorded Bumblebee's dialogue so the post-production crew could get to work, a practice common in the industry. When the team heard Aadahl's voice, they stopped in their tracks. Quite unexpectedly, they found their Bumblebee.
Perhaps it was the touch of Scandinavian in his voice or his Northern California cadence that made Aadahl's performance both compassionate and resilient. Whatever it was, Aadahl won the part — even if he wasn't auditioning for it. Director Michael Bay revealed:
“The task was daunting, like, how are you going to find that voice? And then he just voiced it. We played it back, tweaked it out a bit, and it just worked.”
Aadahl's only previous voice work was on Godzilla, and it went uncredited. His sound design resume, however, is a fanboy's dream. It includes film franchises like Kung Fu Panda, G.I. Joe, World War Z and Terminator.
As for now, Aadahal won't reprise his role in the #Bumblebee spin-off movie. That film is set in the 1980s, prior to the Autobots recovering his voice.
What line would you like to hear Bumblebee say in Transformers: The Last Knight?


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2016 was a bad year. We know it. It's been written everywhere. The world is in complete disarray. Even if you voted for Trump, you have to agree with that. Celebrity deaths were too much to handle. The Oscars were "so white." Mariah pulled a Milli Vanilli at the final hour. I could go on and on, but I won't. The year wasn't all bad. Here are my personal favorite things about the year in film, television, and music in no particular order. Share your own below. Here's hoping 2017 is better. Believe in hope.
1. The Chicago Cubs winning The World Series and Bill Murray and John Cusack's reactions to it
2. Lion - the acting, writing, and direction
3. Denzel Washington and Viola Davis in Fences
4. David Bowie's grand exit - Lazarus
5. Bon Iver's brilliant 22, A Million
6. Everything about Nocturnal Animals
7. Letters to Cleo's comeback
8. Spider-man's awesome cameo in Civil War
9. Amy Adams in Arrival especially the scene in which she makes "contact"
10. Westworld, a series which got better episode to episode and featured amazing performances by Thandie Newton and Evan Rachel Wood
11. Orange is the New Black and it's strongest season since its first
12. The final scene between Chris Pine and Jeff Bridges in Hell or High Water and the movie itself
13. The acting and writing of Manchester By the Sea period
14. The cast of Everybody Wants Some!!
15. Everything about Stranger Things
16. Miike Snow's "Genghis Khan"
17. The return of the real Weezer
18. Abraham's final gesture on The Walking Dead
19. Donnie Yen, the action sequences, and the entire retro yet original feel of Rogue One
20. The amazing, spectacular acting ensemble of Transparent
21. John Oliver
22. Jimmy Kimmel hosting The Emmy's
23. Natalie Portman in Jackie
24. "Dead Weight" by White Lung - their whole album actually
25. Better Call Saul Season 2
26. The cast of New Girl
27. Leonardo DiCaprio's look as Lady Gaga won a Golden Globe
28. Guns N' Roses "Not in This Lifetime" tour
29. Beck's "Wow"
30. The underrated Red Hot Chili Peppers' LP The Getaway
31. Coldplay's "Up&Up" music video
32. Noah Syndergaard's Twitter account
33. Bishop Briggs
34. Goldberg's return to the WWE
35. The Lumineers' "Ophelia"
36. Carrie Fisher's requested obit
37. The Trump front page headlines by the New York Daily News
38. Refreshing mlbtraderumors.com
39. The Flight of the Conchords tour
41. The subtle Breaking Bad reference in Zootopia
42. Nerdist Podcast with Colin Farrell
43. Port Chester, NY's Capitol Theatre and its eclectic lineups, amazing atmosphere and sound
44. Ryan Reynolds' Twitter account
45. The trailer for Logan set to Johnny Cash's cover of NIN's "Hurt"
46. The return of The XX
47. La La Land
48. Me trying to find a lit agent
49. Radiohead's "Burn the Witch"
50. Hamilton (I've heard)
51. The mere thought of a Will & Grace reunion.
52. Lady Gaga's Oscar performance
53. The terribly underrated flick The Nice Guys
54. Jacob Trembley at the Indie Spirit Awards
55. The opening credits of Deadpool
56. Bat for Lashes' "Sunday Love"
57. Willem DaFoe as Marilyn Monroe in a Snickers commercial
58. Steve Martin's Twitter account
59. John Travolta's eyebrows in The People v. O.J.: American Crime Story
60. Mahershala Ali in Moonlight
61. James Corden's Tony opening monologue and number
62. The last scene of The Lobster
63. The Republican debates when viewed as entertainment only
64. Silversun Pickup's "Circadian Rhythm"
65. Craig Sager's ESPY's speech
66. Bernie Sanders running for the train
About A-Sides with Jon Chattman - thisisasides.com :
Jon Chattman's music series typically features talent (established or not) from all genres performing a track or two, and discussing their latest news, songs, and everything in-between. A-Sides focuses on the artist making art in a low-threatening, extremely informal (sometime humorous) way. No bells, no whistles -- just the music performed in a random, low-key setting followed by an unrehearsed chat. In an industry where everything often gets overblown and over manufactured, Jon strives for a refreshing change. From time to time, the series also features humor columns, film/TV personality interviews, and a kid-centric spin-off called "Lowercase A-Sides." Artists featured on the series have included Elle King, Joe Perry, Alice Cooper, James Bay, Jimmy Eat World, Imagine Dragons, Melissa Etheridge, Yoko Ono, Charli XCX, Marina and the Diamonds, and Bastille. Theme song written and performed by Blondfire.


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Anatomy and Cell BiologyeBook - 2004
A summary of all the mycorrhizal types from a morphological and anatomical perspective is presented in this beautifully illustrated book. Specialized topics are highlighted in each chapter for those who wish to pursue mycorrhizal associations in more depth.
Publisher: Wallingford, Oxon, UK : CABI Pub., 2004.
Branch Call Number: ELECTRONIC BOOK
Characteristics: 1 online resource (vii, 173 p.) : ill.
Call Number: ELECTRONIC BOOK


text: To ensure sustainable operations of wireless sensor networks, environmental energy harvesting has been well recognized as one promising solution for long-term applications. Unlike in battery-powered sensor networks, the authors are targeting a duty-cycle adjustment to optimize the network performance, e.g., delay minimization, with full harvested energy utilization. In this paper, they introduce a set of duty-cycle adjustment schemes that will minimize Cross Traffic Delay (CTD) in energy-harvesting sensor networks. They first present an offline solution by assuming that the link reliability and traffic distribution are known a priori. Based on the sub-modular property of the CTD function, they theoretically prove that a simple greedy algorithm can achieve constant approximation.

domain: literature


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“Reverse-gentrification of the literary world” proclaims the headline banner on Akashic Books’ website.
It’s a fair representation of the bold creativity of this independent publisher, still described as a ‘small press’ despite its growing clout in the literary world. Co-founded by Girls Against Boys bassist Johnny Temple in 1996, it’s expanded into an eclectic publisher of everything from books on race, queer identity, and biopolitics to 2011’s infamous hit, Go the Fuck to Sleep.
Among the diverse array of books published by Akashic is the ‘Noir’ series: collections of ‘noir’ short story anthologies, each volume of which is themed around a specific city or place. The original release was Brooklyn Noir – fittingly, the location of Akashic’s headquarters – and it proved so surprisingly successful that other cities began contributing collections of their own dark deeds to the series. There are now over 60 anthologies in the series, with dozens more in the works. They span the globe – Mumbai Noir, Paris Noir, Istanbul Noir, even Wall Street Noir. Brooklyn Noir now spans three volumes. As John Wilkins explained in a 2011 UT-San Diego feature, “Publisher Johnny Temple said the idea was to capture the ‘intense diversity’ of that borough by having different writers focus on different neighborhoods.”
Diversity is indeed the hallmark of the series. While ostensibly dark tales of crime and despair, the genius of the series lies in its ability to use such an uncharacteristic point of entry to convey the identity and essence of a place with remarkably poignant accuracy. The books are divided into neighbourhoods and delineated by streets, and the backdrop against which the tales play out offers a more realistic and quotidian view of the city’s daily life – both its sunny and dark sides – than is usually offered by the average novel or literary travel piece.
Further, the noir dimension enables writers to really challenge readers’ perceptions of these cities: instead of overt social criticism, it achieves the same effect via subtly dark and engaging narratives wrapped in a raw and unvarnished depiction of objective reality. From the suffering of homeless refugees to the gossip of conniving neighbours; from corrupt police to seedy shop-owners; the stories work so well because the reader recognizes them as being so real. They offer the reader a very different vantage on cities they sometimes think they know quite well.
Two of the most recent releases in the series provide an apt illustration of these qualities. Tel Aviv Noir was edited by Etgar Keret and Assaf Gavron, and features 14 stories spread across the Israeli city. Many of the authors are young, up-and-coming award-winning writers; some are poets, some are journalists whose knowledge and familiarity of the city and its ways are reflected perceptively in the tales they tell. The stories range from standard murder mysteries to almost fantasy-like mystical tales; but all are set in the contemporary streets and neighbourhoods of the city. From a novice investigator struggling to solve the disappearance of a tech entrepreneur, to an Israeli woman whose irrational fear of African refugees becomes overpowering, to an ex-cop who offers crime tours of the city (until his prime attractions start getting murdered), there’s a wide array of plots and styles.
A couple struggles to find unusual sources of meat for their unusually picky canine pet; a gang-war between Israelis and East European mafia is chronicled in all its dramatic turns; Death sits in a café discoursing with a barista as bombs explode outside. The collection reflects much of the daily reality of the city, but not the sort one is likely to read in tour guides. And while the stories are, by virtue of the genre, not at all cheery, they’re not simplistic gloom-and-doom tales, either. There’s a complexity and virtuosity to plot and prose that leaves the reader with a sense of satisfaction and appreciation, despite the typically devastating denouement of the tales.
Even more remarkable is the collection Tehran Noir, edited by Salar Abdoh. Stripped of the sort of politicized rhetoric that often accompanies depictions of Iran in the western world, the stories that emerge offer a truly human portrait of everyday people struggling to survive in a city that is as full of good and evil – and plenty of gray – as any other. Indeed, the most startling thing about the Noir collections is that while they aim to showcase the diversity of the cities they depict, what emerges is an equally powerful sense of the commonalities these geographically and politically disparate cities share. In Tehran, as much as Tel Aviv or Brooklyn or London, detectives struggle to solve crimes while avoiding the wrong type of scrutiny from corrupt senior officers. Investigative journalists struggle to get their stories out with full knowledge of the painful consequences they can invoke in a world where power and wealth often smother truth.
Of course, Tehran is, of all locations depicted in the Noir series, one of the truly unique. As the editor writes in the introduction: “…there really is a difference here. The city may be a hothouse of decadence, a den of iniquity, all that. But it still exists under the watchful eye of the Islamic Republic. The city enforces its own morality police, and there are regular public hangings of drug dealers and thieves. Because of this there is a raging sense of a split personality about the place – the imposed propriety of the mosque rubbing against the hidden (and more often not so hidden) rhythms of the real city.”
As the editor also notes, the city is one of the world’s most significant drug conduits, and despite its teetotalling totalitarianism, it’s not that hard to find a drink if you really want to. All of this forms the backdrop for the collection, whose stories unabashedly tackle the drug trade, misogyny and sexism, and ethnic strife. There is a sort of social commentary here – while never overt or preachy, it possesses a power by simple virtue of unadorned straightforwardness. One of the most powerful and brutal stories is a description of a public stoning, which conveys the horrific consequences of primitive brutality and collective complicity as no objective essay ever could. These are more than just descriptions of decadence and despair: the stories are driven by a split sense of intense love for the city and its people, coupled with an undercurrent of seething anger at the struggles and travails that mark their lives.
The 15 stories in this collection also come from a stellar and diverse cast of Iranian writers. There are Kurds, Armenians and Christians; veterans of the Iran-Iraq War and former prisoners of the Islamic Revolution. Seven of the 15 contributors are women. Many of them clearly draw on personal familiarity with the places and themes of which they write. But again, what they share is a clear love for their city, which emerges in the contradictions of an environment where daily life is subject to dangerous tensions. The protagonist of Vali Khalili’s story Fear is the Best Keeper of Secrets, an investigative reporter like the author, offers a telling reflection.
Half my friends had left the country to work for organizations that beamed news into Iran; they had good lives and good salaries – at least I imagined they did – in places like London and Prague. They got to travel, see the world, and they didn’t have to deal with this maddening everyday censorship. I’d stuck it out here because I knew if I went away I might have that good life, but I wouldn’t be much of a journalist anymore. I’d have all the gadgets and all the audience who hungrily watched Persian-language satellite news coming from abroad. But I’d only be deluding myself. I wouldn’t be a reporter anymore; I’d just be someone else’s mouthpiece. I needed to be in the belly of the beast, so to speak. I needed to be in Tehran – to smell it, taste it, feel it, know its aches and pains and the sadness of its people.
A collection such as this is able to bring Iran to life for the foreign reader in a way other fiction and non-fiction cannot. There’s a different quality to the portrayal of life in a city when the portrayal of life is incidental to the task at hand. Novels that take social struggle as their central theme can accomplish wondrous things, but there is often a certain contrived quality to their presentation. But when a reader absorbs the character and life of the city only as a backdrop – taking it in through peripheral vision, while the mind’s central processing dwells on the crime mystery – it nevertheless communicates that backdrop with an astonishingly visceral power. These depictions of life, rendered more subtle and peripheral to the plot at hand, seem to cling with an even greater power in the mind of the reader.
It’s thus that noir fiction – with its concentration on the grim, the dark, the gritty; death and hard-scrabble struggle – succeeds paradoxically in conveying a great sense of life. As the protagonists weave their way through these stories, pursuing criminals (or dodging authorities), investigating mysteries, covering crime for newspapers, they depict an Iran that is far more dynamic than any news broadcast or documentary could ever convey in the west. Criminals fence stolen goods at teahouses. Activists rally to abolish the death penalty. Journalists hack their way through the internet for information; challenge authorities for failing to do their job. It’s thus that the stories take form.
A raid by state security on a newspaper is treated routinely by the reporters being rounded up; one of them clandestinely slips a cell phone into the pocket of a colleague before being marched off, asking her to check it and carry out an interview while she’s busy being interrogated. For those familiar with early American noir literature – with its prohibition-era gangsters and roundups by the paranoid morality police of Hoover’s FBI – cultural differences between Tehran and New York shrink with remarkable ease when considered from the perspective of the apolitical, hard-scrabble crime-solver. There’s a lesson here: perspective really is everything.
The Iranian Revolution haunts the backdrop to these stories: a veil drawn across a complex and unresolved canvas. Bitter histories boil over: former revolutionaries who fought the Islamic clerics to preserve freedom, and paid for it with years of prison torture, now pursue lives of pleasure and drink themselves to excess. Others betrayed their comrades to save themselves, and are in turn betrayed by those seeking revenge for the ones lost. Others try to forget the past, and find an equilibrium in the present. But that is no easier here, for those haunted by the pain of memories they try but cannot forget, than it is in any other city. The pathos that simmers beneath the cool cynicism of the noir genre is a universal, as much as its source and expression emerge in infinite variation.
Akashic has stumbled onto a truly unique literary phenomenon with its Noir series. Cities like Tehran and Tel Aviv reveal themselves as having more in common than they probably realized, and their differences are made to shine in a very unique – if perhaps chipped and jaded – light. The Akashic Noir collections give a truly alternative and grassroots voice to the cities of the world, and the power of that voice conveys something beyond the noir style that is its medium. If you’ve yet to try them, now is as good a time as any to start – and these two collections are superb anthologies to begin with. Disturbing and delightful at the same time, they’ll leave you looking at your own city with a whole new perspective.