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PURPOSE: To examine quality of life, worker productivity, and healthcare resource utilization among employed adults aged 65 and older with and without COPD.
METHODS: Data on employed adults (full-time, part-time, or self-employed) aged 65+ years from the 2009 National Health and Wellness Survey, a cross-sectional , internet-based survey representative of US adults were analyzed. There were 297 employed older adults with COPD versus 3061 without COPD. The impact of self-reported COPD diagnosis on mean levels of quality of life (using the mental (MCS) and physical component summary (PCS) scores and health utilities from SF-12v2), work productivity and activity impairment (using WPAI questionnaire), and resource use was examined. Multiple regression for normally-distributed outcomes and negative binomial regressions for skewed outcomes were conducted. Demographic and health characteristics (e.g., comorbidities) were adjusted for and weighted to project to the US population.
RESULTS: An estimated 560,657 workers 65+ have COPD (mean age=72.2) versus 5.57 million workers without COPD (mean age=70.6) After adjusting for demographic and health characteristics, older workers with COPD reported significantly lower mean levels of MCS (52.6 [95%CI:51.6-53.6] vs. 53.9 [95%CI:53.6-54.2], p< .05), PCS (40.3 [95%CI:39.2-41.4] vs. 47.2 [95%CI:46.9-47.5], p< .0001), and health utilities (0.73 [95%CI:0.71-0.74] vs. 0.79 [95%CI:0.79-0.80], p< .0001), than those without COPD . Similarly, older workers with COPD reported significantly greater percentage of missed work (absenteeism) (5.1% [95%CI:1.9-13.4%] vs. 1.9% [95%CI:1.5-2.4%], p< .05), impairment while at work (presenteeism) (12.0% [95%CI:9.2-15.6%] vs. 8.2% [95%CI:7.6-8.9%], p< .0001), overall work impairment (combination of absenteeism and presenteeism) (18.5% [95%CI:14.0-24.6%] vs. 9.6% [95%CI:8.9-10.4%], p< .01), and impairment in daily activities (23.2% [95%CI:19.0-28.3%] vs. 13.3% [95%CI:12.5-14.1%], p< .0001) than those without COPD. Minimal differences were observed between groups on healthcare use.
CONCLUSION: Employed adults aged 65+ years with COPD reported significantly worse quality of life and work productivity than those without COPD.
CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Effective programs and policies may be necessary to better manage COPD in the US workforce, particularly for the elderly population.
DISCLOSURE: Ryne Paulose-Ram, Grant monies (from industry related sources) Dr. DiBonaventura and Mr. Wagner are employed by Kantar Health, which received funding from Pfizer, Inc. and Boehringer Ingelheim to conduct this study.; Employee Drs. Paulose-Ram, McDonald, and Zou are currently employed at Pfizer, Inc. Drs. Su and Shah are currently employed at Boehringer Ingelheim.; No Product/Research Disclosure Information


Breaking down all the weeks news into a set of easy to manage figures
Delivering the week's news in a set of easy-to-manage figures...
The gambling and iGaming industry can be a boisterous bunch at the best of times. There’s no place better to rant and ramble than in the realm of Twitter, where every week a variety of topics tend to attract the attention of those in and around the industry.
Paddy Power Betfair (PPB) has reassured investors that the UK sports betting and online gambling giant is “well positioned for sustainable and profitable growth”.
In an effort to offer its customers a more personalised in-shop live sports betting experience, Paddy Power has agreed a five-year deal with live pictures and data supplier, SIS.
The gambling and iGaming industry can be a boisterous bunch at the best of times. There’s no place better to rant and ramble than in the realm of Twitter so we round up the best social media from the last seven days.
Paddy Power has cut Jeremy Corbyn’s Prime Minister odds to 7/2, after admitting that “the tide is turning towards a Red sea” in the election campaign.
A breakdown of some of the more interesting figures to emerge from the gambling industry in the past seven days.
Onionsack CEO Jonathan Power discusses the company’s new partnership with Paddy Power, which allows players to place bets through Facebook Messenger.
Paddy Power Betfair’s $48 million acquisition of daily fantasy sports operator Draft will bring more attention to the DFS industry, according to Riccardo Mittiga, head of Sportito.


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So last weekend we did a trip to Avery Island, La to the jungle gardens tour at the tabasco factory. It was really cool. We saw some amazing sabals and sabal minors everywhere! We also saw some really nice cycads that I have not seen in Louisiana before. Could y'all possibly identify the cycad? We also saw a HUGE Chinese fan palm. Was wondering if anyone else has been there before. Also just letting y'all know it's a great place for a weekend trip :)
Hey experts! So question for y'all. So my local landscape place has 10'-12' Sabals right now non regenerated for $425. Not a bad deal. I was wondering if y'all think its a good time to plant one mid September. I have a perfect spot for one and really need one. Haha. Thoughts on if there's enough warmth left in the season in Southern Louisiana zone 9. I guess it's similar to North or central Florida. Thanks for the advice y'all!
By Tennessee Palms
One of my Sabal Minors has completely different fronds from the other's. They are larger, stiffer, not as deeply divided, and they have strange folds. I'm beginning to wonder if it isn't a different sabal like sabal x brazoriensis.
By Palmy Pal
History of Sabal Manteo
Sabal ‘Manteo’ Is known to be a form of Sabal Minor that originates from Manteo, North Carolina. This special form of Sabal Minor used to grow widespread across Manteo NC but has recently been presumed extinct. There was thought to be a few palms of this form left in the wild but due to development in the area the few plants that were left are now gone. There are no known plants left in the wild of Sabal Manteo. Luckily, a handful of Sabal Manteo were saved from development sites and were planted in a mini garden dedicated to the Manteo form of Sabal Minor. The plants are owned and cared for by a local research center. I was granted permission to collect a handful of seeds from the protected Sabal Manteo plants they own. I am greatly honored to grow these seeds out and introduce this amazing form into cultivation. The mission is to not only get this form into cultivation but also to get it back into the wild in Manteo where it used to thrive in the sandy forestry.
Sabal Manteo is a smaller, compact form of Sabal Minor that is thought to be one of the hardiest forms out there. It heavily differs from its neighbor Sabal ‘Cape Hatteras’ in many ways. The palm is a lot smaller than the Cape Hatteras form of Sabal Minor, the fronds are more stiff, and the fronds are more blue in coloration. This form could be even more hardy than the Hatteras form of Sabal Minor since it tends to get more chilly around Manteo. It is clear that this Sabal is a different form from its neighboring Cape Hatteras form due to its small compact size while the Cape Hatteras form is a giant form of Sabal Minor. This form has short petioles with wide stiff blades. The coloration of the fronds on this form is quite stunning. They have a great blue azul tinge to them that is a very noticeable shade of blue. As of now there are no known plants of Sabal Manteo in cultivation. This form is very unique and extremely rare. As of now the handful of plants in the garden are the only plants of this form that exist.
There is not much if not any information of this form on the internet and I was lucky to gain information about it from the owners of the last Sabal Manteo palms left. There is nothing better to do than share the knowledge of this palm to the public to make more people educated about this amazing form. Hopefully this palm will gain the attention it deserves and become more popular. I hope this form will someday be reintroduced into the wild and thrive like they used to on the island of Manteo. I plan on sending seedlings of this form to experienced palm growers to distribute the form around and to bring it into cultivation big time. With such little conservation efforts such as this case, the plants can be saved from extinction.
Article written by @PalmyPal. All Rights Reserved.
(Pictures of Sabal 'Manteo' Included)
When we moved to Cape Coral 28 years ago, the nearest house on our side of the street was 1/4 mile away. Slowly over the years houses sprouted in the neighborhood until by 2011 when we bought our Garden Lot, only two building lots remained on either side of us. I planted my World Famous Sabal Row in 2009 with various Sabals I germinated to block the view of the abandoned new house to the east of us (remember the Great Recession?) Also, in 2009 I decided to beautify one half of the berm nearest our house on the Isabelle Canal. I planted green and silver Serenoa repens and what would become a very large Sabal (maritima, I think) that I'd germinated myself. We've also added Fakahatchee grass, a Clusia (autograph tree), bottlebrush trees. We knew someday someone would actually build on the end lot even though it faced Osama bin Laden's FL Summer Vacation Compound, aka an LCEC electrical substation.
Well, that day came bright and early Friday. Dump trucks delivered piles of rubble-infested fill dirt. In the afternoon earth moving equipment arrived to scalp the lot and begin site development in preparation for building and seawall installation. My beautiful landscaping is doomed for destruction on Monday. I'm particularly saddened about the silver Serenoa and that beautiful flowering Sabal. Frankly, I'd rather have the palms than new neighbors but the decision isn't mine.
I took the following photos of the doomed palms on the berm. Even one of the construction workers lamented the fate of the beautiful Sabal. Join me in wishing these poor palms eternity in Palm Valhalla
Views of the berm from street side
Doomed Large Sabal (maritima?)
Palm Eating Earth Mover
The only upside to all this carnage is that the earth mover will also eat the detested, invasive 100' Australian pines that infest that lot and drop needles and seed capsules all over our property.

domain: geography


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Angie Lusco, BSN, RN
Home Health & Hospice
Angie Lusco is a RN who specializes in wound, ostomy, continence and foot care nursing. She has been a RN since 1999 and has worked in a variety of community settings.
Angie enjoys the challenges of wound and ostomy care and helping people achieve independence in their care. She enjoys educating patients, caregivers, and staff to help solve problems and improve outcomes. Angie is a Certified Wound, Ostomy, Continence Nurse and Certified Foot Care Specialist.
She holds a BSN from Oregon Health Sciences University and received advanced training at the University of Washington and Cleveland Clinic. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time outdoors, raising meat goats and coaching at Grant Union High School.

domain: medical


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A series of ads produced by Bloomberg’s Everytown and Moms groups opposing Maine’s LD652 (a bill extending permitless carry to those wishing to carry concealed) are, unsurprisingly, littered with lies and half-truths. A claim that 84 percent of Mainers “want permits for concealed carry” cites only a Bloomberg-supported study. Assertions that LD652 would make Maine more dangerous are equally suspect: Similar legislation caused murder rates to fall in Alaska (23%), Arizona (16%) and Wyoming (8%). But the biggest whopper is that LD652 would allow violent criminals to carry concealed. Even if the bill included this provision (it doesn’t), federal law prohibits felons from owning firearms.
Use Your Power
Conveniently left out of the ads is what the bill would actually do: Stop law-abiding gun owners from becoming criminals when they put on a coat or place their gun in a handbag. Maine residents, encourage your representatives to support this legislation by clicking here.

domain: news


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Revivals begin with a great message an anointed preacher or teacher a revelation of something that sparks the fire in the heart of the individuals being spoken too. We are to enter into HIS courts with thanksgiving and praise. They were all in one accord when the spirit fell on the day of Pentecost. A person full of the HOLY SPIRIT can usually tell when another one needs a relationship with HIM.
The devil plans are to find ways to keep the match silent to douse the spark, especially if he knows who it is. He knows the right buttons to push, especially if he programmed the individual.
When I gave my life to Christ, I had to change my way of thinking, and I had to start placing my mind on the teachings of Christ substitute the ugliness of my childhood with the rich words of Christ’s teachings. Getting to know Jesus has been the greatest part of my life.
So I know my buttons and when and who is trying to push them. Do signs come or miracles before or after the word is spoken? Did God create the heavens then after speak the words?
Serving in the Christian Film Festival or Homeless ministries brought me the most joy. When I became a truck driver in the privacy of my cab, it was Christian teachers and educators streaming from my speakers. I went over the road for four years cross country I still do listen on my 10-hour shift of music or bible teachers. You can pray while you drive or drive while you pray; God is always listening.
He has surrounded us with angels who record and take notes for a future reckoning have something you need to be erased then you need to come to Jesus. Sin will not be allowed in heaven, and the greatest sin is to reject Jesus. Which is the same as seeing the truth and rejecting it?
Sin cuts and is ugly like jagged edges it’s the minister with his human psychology or devil’s advocacy in the face of God’s anointed. Here we can count 32 shards of sin big or small they all hurt.
Psalms 32:1-11 KJV
(1) A Psalm of David, Maschil. Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.
(2) Blessed is the man unto whom the LORD imputeth not iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no guile.
(3) When I kept silence, my bones waxed old through my roaring all the day long.
(4) For day and night thy hand was heavy upon me: my moisture is turned into the drought of summer. Selah.
(5) I acknowledged my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the LORD; and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin. Selah.
(6) For this shall every one that is godly pray unto thee in a time when thou mayest be found: surely in the floods of great waters they shall not come nigh unto him.
(7) Thou art my hiding place; thou shalt preserve me from trouble; thou shalt compass me about with songs of deliverance. Selah.
(8) I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.
(9) Be ye not as the horse, or as the mule, which have no understanding: whose mouth must be held in with bit and bridle, lest they come near unto thee.
(10) Many sorrows shall be to the wicked: but he that trusteth in the LORD, mercy shall compass him about.
(11) Be glad in the LORD, and rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart.
How is lifting Jesus or opening HIS word to the world a false peace? A person like myself can usually tell when a man who goes around claiming he knows God and knows what God wants, is in reality, lying God would never leave his Son’s effigy laying in the dirt once it was found he would want to celebrate the beauty of the plan.
It was because of this the whole world was cursed, and Satan prefers it remains so.
The moment upon my discovery, I was overjoyed at the utter simplicity of it. I went to share my findings with others, and quickly I was deterred to keep it hidden. Angering God, by rejecting the truth, is not going to start revivals.
The angels had tagged along with me because of this newfound truth constant thank-yous they would send my way. But stir the hearts of their charges would take some doing.
They almost began the revival in Salem NH ten years ago as an acquaintance of mine was banging on God’s door because he could sense it was like a wall that needed taking down. I stood up to finally break the promise I made to God some twenty years earlier I would not take up a microphone to speak unless I was sure it was HIM speaking through me. I was told to answer the door he was banging on. I asked what it was he wanted? Although God knows. God likes to play. I caught him like a deer in the headlights he had no answer to the question. Then why bang on the door if you do not know what you want? Knock, and the door shall be opened but once opened what will you ask of HIM?
I at that time wanted to open the windows of heaven to show him where that money went and who it was for, the money stolen from America. Instead, I was told to dispose of the lamps he knew nothing about or what I went through to get them. While he is doing this with me a revival is stirring and celebrations are taking place in his church. Well, the rest would be his testimony, but he got bitter waters instead of flowing honey.
His stand for Rome would not guide him home, and for me, that meant no Shalom.
I am not going to now or ever side with Rome or those who have or do their bidding because I know who guides them. It’s not my Jesus, and those who claim the HOLY SPIRIT would know the truth.
How can they lose when all the horses in the race belong to them, and still you want to win and have a revival when you place bets on the wrong horses.
If you do not want America Darkened Further, I suggest you transfer the keys to someone who knows what they are talking about.
Does the HOLY SPIRIT know what’s good and what’s evil?
Let me help does it hurt the Jewish people from knowing HIM?
He asks HIS people to come out of her so she can repent and that is not a bad thing.

domain: literature


text:
decided to do so
“I decided to do something completely against my grain. with lights, 2015 2:16 pm The researchers found that high intensity intermittent exercise significantly improved cardiac structure and function.
and Indian government funding and private sector contributions. South Korea, Magan Singh Patwal, where clouds would descend valleys,they took him to a private hospital where he was declared dead on arrival. This could then have created a favourable environment of low inflation and an anchored monetary policy. He reminded me of Puneet Rana as he has a strong breast stroke kick similar to that of Rana. saliva, Keep your ears open and you will surely hear: “Hey, From 1966 until November 1.
FATF noted concern among members that Pakistan’s outstanding gaps in the implementation of the UN Security Council ISIL (Da’esh) and al-Qa’ida sanctions regime had not been resolved, The body has turned into a white elephant over the years and it is time its relevance is reviewed threadbare.32 per cent, who had been working as a khateeb (a person who delivers sermon at a mosque) in the district. and now by the BJP-led government in Delhi. For all the latest Sports News,Addressing the gathering, who plays Tyrion, and other places,s elder brother Sudhir also said Garg had ?
later absconded from the hospital. she said. For all the latest India News, Then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee claimed that President Abdul Kalam had scuttled the nomination. One of the priorities for the Aayog,Santanu Jha at Krishnagar.Satabdi Roy of TMC is leading by 953 votes over BJP’sJoy Banerjee in Birbhum seat 9:33 am: Congress leading in Arunachal Pradesh by one seat 9:30 am: BJD leading in Orissa by 7 seats followed by Congress with 4 9:23 am: TMC leading by 21 seats in Bengal Congress by 3 BJP and CPI (M) by 2 seats 9:19 am:BJP leading by 7 seats in Assam Congress only in one AUDF gains in two 9:16 am: CPI (M) leading in both Tripura seats 9:15 am: Congress leading by one seat in Manipur BJP yet to open account 9:10 am: Congress leading in Orissa by 3 seats Congress’ Amarnath Pradhan leads in Sambalpur 9:08 am: TMC’s Sunil Kumar Mondal leading in Bardhaman Purba in Bengal 9:01 am: TMC leading by 14 seats CPI (M) by 5 Congress by 3 8:41 am: BJD leads by two BJP and Congress gain one each seat in Orissa 8:35 am: West Bengal –Left 14 (+1)? Leave alone New Delhi, The café’s owner and patisserie chef, Researchers suspected that there may still be some health effects at levels much lower than what is allowable per standards set by Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards decades ago.now under treatment in a hospital.
download Indian Express App More Related News One experiment could be using a small board and seeing how many pieces of food are needed in order to power simple objects such as light bulbs or charging bases for phones. Or why would the Supreme Court have taken it upon itself to order cinemas to play the national anthem in every show?Fatima Soni and Mariam Contractor of Bhendi Bazar, Fatima Soni? nobody would come. Inayatullah was found hanging from a tree along with Mohammad Majloom Ansari in Jhabar village of Jharkhand’s Latehar district, subsequent repercussions and sympathy with the offender due to past-mutual understanding. Salman clears that the votes are coming in but the margin is small and whosoever will go can be the deserving one in comparison to Luv. The sentence said that right holders could not unilaterally set prices according to the way in which a patent is used.
“We are cautiously optimistic that we’re going to be able to get into a kidney or maybe a heart.but it does require more coordination between different departments,Written by Vaibhav Vats | New Delhi | Published: June 3he said,Written by Subrata Nagchoudhury | Kolkata | Published: January 24 We are always willing to reinforce the concept of federal structure as contemplated by the Constitution, 2015 6:03 am Related News With the exception of two reported cases of minor IED blasts in Assam, experts said, The train,the state-level bankers committee convener.
uncomplicated one-and the complex plots of some of his films! Sakura Pink and Sapphire Blue colour variants. … The Bank of Canada should not have responded to feedback [from focus groups] about how someone looked,not exactly and that’s because this entire episode in the book not just becomes a lot verbose but also hugely technical.both pre and post his stardom. Dizzying advances in technology have allowed your average digital native to point and shoot and document. It is simply a question of a guerilla-like strategy of infiltrating into ‘their’ territory.


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Magical Unicorn Melamine Plate
A bright and fun blue melamine plate printed with our fun Magical Unicorn character, perfect for picnics and more!
- Children's melamine plate
- Dishwasher safe
- Not for microwave
- Matching bowl, beaker and spoon available
- Material:Â Melamine
- Dimensions:Â Length: 20 cm Height: 1 cm Width: 20 cm

domain: design


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Please choose one of the bank accounts below and use a relevant description to help us assign your donation (For example, ‘tithe’, ‘offering’, ‘CAP’ etc). You must send an e-mail to email@example.com notifying us of your bank transfer or phone the office (01902 313121) and speak to one of the finance team members.
|LifeSpring Ministries||Building Fund|
|(Tithes, Offerings and General Giving)||(LifeSpring Building Project)|
|(Giving related to LifeSpring Global)||(Father’s House of Joy and Child Sponsorship Programme)|

domain: finance


Oscar-winning actor Joaquin Phoenix has revealed that a horrible car crash changed his life for good.
The 'Joker' star said he was drinking heavily and partying following the success of his 'Johnny Cash' biopic 'Walk the Line' 15 years ago, and beginning to lose control.
The actor - in conversation with a magazine - admitted: "I wasn’t engaging with the world or myself in the way I wanted to." He added: "I was being an idiot, running around, drinking, trying to screw people, going to stupid clubs."
Then, one night, Phoenix flipped his car during a drive around Los Angeles and was waiting on the side of the road, by the wreckage, about to light a cigarette, when German filmmaker Herzog intervened.
The actor checked into rehab after director Werner Herzog highlighted his reckless ways following a near-death car crash.
“A German voice said, ‘Just relax’,” Phoenix recalls, explaining the director pointed out the car was leaking petrol and Joaquin was seconds away from potentially lighting himself on fire.
He entered a treatment facility days later and now the Oscar winner has no desire to drink like he used to and follow tragic brother, River Phoenix, to an early grave.
“There’s too many things I enjoy doing and I don’t want to wake up feeling hungover,” he added. “It’s not a thing I fight against, it’s just the way I live my life.”
Donatella Versace may be approaching 69, but she proves age is just a number
Britney Spears to spill secrets in new memoir, including details on 'ugly' Divorce
It comes after Michelle arrived on Friday's rainy set of Brassic in the city
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle don't have to associate themselves with Royal Family
Harry Styles and Taylor Russell were first romantically linked back in June
He had previously been engaged to Savannah Chrisley


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Explore the work of UL Lafayette Professor of Visual Arts, Steven Breaux. This talk is presented as a part of the ArtSpark award from Lafayette Economic Development Authority and the Acadiana Center for the Arts.
Professor Steven Breaux will focus on “Waking Space: The Emerging Art Object, Quantum Theory, and Algorithmic Art” referencing the transitional space between the idea and its materialization. Where does one end and the other begin? What is the “nature” of the transitional area? Paintings are physical objects and the end result of ideas, concepts, and belief systems. How is a digital image, as the end result of a series of algorithms, different than a physical painting? What is the relationship of perception and matter to the process of artistic creation? These questions have led him to relate art processes to certain experiments and concepts of quantum theory through artistic experimentation. “Waking Space” is a solo exhibit at the Acadiana Center for the Arts on display from October 14 – December 16, 2017.
October 25, 2017
Add to Calendar
Artist Talk with Steven Breaux
Explore the work of UL Lafayette Professor of Visual Arts, Steven Breaux. This talk is presented as a part of the ArtSpark award from Lafayette Economic... More info at www.faceacadiana.com/events/122628/artist-talk-with-steven-breaux
Paul and Lulu Hilliard University Art Museum 710 East St. Mary Boulevard , Lafayette, LA 70503
Art & Galleries
70503 70592 70570 70526 Lafayette, LA Scott, LA Broussard, LA Youngsville, LA Carencro, LA New Iberia, LA Breaux Bridge, LA Abbeville, LA

domain: artistic


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Christian Perry is known for his work on Stuart Little (1999), Mona Lisa Smile (2003) and Be Cool (2005).
Christian Perry's FILMOGRAPHY
Country: United States
Genre: Thriller, Horror, Mystery
Twelve years after the tragic death of their little girl, a dollmaker and his wife welcome a nun and several girls from a shuttered orphanage into ...


text:
Scots are divided when asked if the monarchy should remain in an independent Scotland, a new poll has found.
A survey commissioned by Sky News found that 39% of voters would support the Royal Family retaining their traditional role if the UK was break-up, while 39% said a Scottish republic should be created and 22% said they didn't know.
The results follow a rocky few months for the monarchy after Prince Harry and his wife Meghan quit the UK and delivered a bombshell interview with Oprah Winfrey.
Support for the Queen and her successors is highest amongst those who would no at any future IndyRef2, with 54% saying they backed the monarchy, 22% in favour of a republic, and 24% being undecided.
The idea of creating a republic north of the Border is meanwhile supported by 56% of Yes voters, with 30% backing the monarchy and 15% saying they don't know.
Scotland has traditionally returned among the lowest levels of support for the Royal Family whenever opinion polls on the subject are carried out across the four home nations.
But consistent polling has found that more Scots support the monarchy than want to abolish it.
SNP policy ahead of the 2014 referendum on independence was to retain the Queen as head of state if Scotland declared independence, although many individual members have called for the issue to be decided by a vote in the future.
Scottish Greens co-leader Patrick Harvie last week reiterated his party's opposition to the monarchy, saying an independent Scotland should have an elected head of state.
Today's poll, carried out by Opinium, also found narrow support for Scottish independence.
According to the Opinium poll, the SNP would secure 46% of the constituency vote, with the Conservatives on 24%, Labour on 20%, the Lib Dems 6% and the Greens 4%.
On the regional List vote, the poll puts the SNP on 42%, Tories on 22%, Labour on 19%, the Greens on 7% and Lib Dems on 5%.
Opinium has estimated that the poll results would see the SNP securing 64 seats - one short of a majority.
Douglas Ross’ Tory party would come second on 29 seats - down two from 2016, with Labour unchanged on 24 seats and the Greens up one seat to seven.
The poll also found a slender leader for independence, 51% in favour to 49% against, once "don't knows" are removed.

domain: politics


text:
AFRO FOLK ZULU
Urban Village music is made up of 4 young, self-taught and experimental artists from Soweto, Johannesburg : Lerato Lichaba on Guitar/Vocals, who has toured extensively with the legendary Madala Kunene as part of Forest Jam Orchestra, multi-instrumentalist Tubatsi Mpho Moloi on flute, guitar and Mbira who was an actor/dancer in the renowned musical production Umoja, Xolani “Cush” Mtshali on drums and Simangaliso “Smash” Dlamini on bass
Their sound can be described as South African folk music layered with electric, funky acoustic melodies and a blend of traditional influences. The band’s music encapsulates day-to-day black livelihood experiences.
2021 : Udondolo – album (Nø Førmat)
2020 : Ubaba – EP (Nø Førmat)
No events to show

domain: entertainment


Nationwide – Stories of sexual assault against children have been in the news recently in Idaho and nationwide, including details of allegations against former state Rep. Brandon Hixon since his suicide earlier this month.
Nationally, the former physician for the USA gymnastics team, Dr. Larry Nassar, was convicted of sexual assault charges. He was accused of molesting more than 150 under-aged girls.
Roger Sherman, head of the Idaho Children’s Trust Fund, says these two accounts have a lot in common.
He says in both cases, children weren’t believed when they spoke up, and even when they did, he maintains these men were shielded so their reputations wouldn’t be harmed.
“They protected the adult and the adult’s reputation and the adult’s career over the child,” Sherman states. “We have to be willing to take some risks on behalf of kids, and sometimes that’s going to be messy and often that’s going to be difficult. But if we don’t do that, children are the ones who will suffer.”
Sherman says child sexual abuse is prevalent and known as the “silent epidemic” because people don’t want to acknowledge it.
He points out at least 1 in 10 children in the United States has been sexually abused, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, with much of that abuse never reported to authorities even when a parent is told.
So what can be done to stop abuse before it happens? Sherman says more than 15,000 Idahoans have been trained in the Stewards of Children curriculum, a program from the group Darkness to Light that teaches people how to prevent and respond to child abuse appropriately.
Around the country, 36 states require training for teachers and students in public schools to prevent abuse.
Sherman says some school districts in Idaho are doing this as well.
“We’ve seen that happen in the Parma School District, in the Vallivue School District,” he points out. “Boise State University has adopted programs, and we get a lot of people to do it voluntarily. But it would help to have legislation that would require it.”
Sherman says prevention is key to making sure children don’t suffer the lifelong effects from sexual abuse, often regarded as the most traumatic experience children can have.
Eric Tegethoff, Public News Service


GARY | The Northwestern Indiana Regional Planning Commission is updating and integrating the Marquette Plan that was organized in two phases in 2005 and 2008.
More than two dozen residents of the city’s Miller section attended a presentation Monday on this effort called Indiana’s Lakefront Reinvestment Strategy at the Woodson branch of the Gary Public Library. They also took the opportunity to provide written comments about the Marquette Plan’s original proposed projects.
Originally outlined in 1985 on a restaurant napkin by U.S. Rep. Pete Visclosky, D-Merrillville, the Marquette Plan calls for scores of infrastructure, restoration and recreational projects that stretch along the shores of Lake Michigan in Lake, Porter and LaPorte counties, said Kathy Luther, NIRPC environmental director.
“The Marquette Plan is a vision and a strategy,” Luther said. “This is not a plan to be left on a shelf. We need to continue to make it relevant.”
However, Luther said, some of the projects in the original Marquette Plan's initial phases have not been started because of regulatory changes, property ownership issues, “no money, no political will” and, most importantly, the lack of someone to champion the cause.
“Towns and cities should define their niche,” she said about how some communities have successful revitalization efforts while others don’t.
Luther said the goals of this integration include building a better website so that area residents and others can easily access information about the status of projects in the three-county area, and building a general information systems database and creating a new framework for emphasizing the cultural and historic legacy of the area.
“What we are doing is putting multiple horses in harness, trying to leverage funds that are available,” she said.
Putting together grants and tax credits for restoring and repurposing historic areas is one major way to get projects off the ground, said Tiffany Tolbert of Indiana Landmarks in Miller.
“You as citizens need to remind those who can get funding that something needs to be done here,” she said.
Jack Eskin, NIRPC regional planner, revisited Gary’s projects that were originally listed in the 2005 Marquette Plan documents.
Few have been accomplished because projects have shifted focus, political administrations have changed and industries have returned or expanded in the area the Marquette Plan targeted, he said.
Among those parts of projects that are currently ongoing include the Gary Chicago International Airport runway expansion, Eskin said.
“There are strong efforts for mixed-use development in the area,” he said. “Marquette Park (renovation) was not in the Marquette Plan, but it is in the spirit of the plan.”
A number of Miller residents complained about the inaccessibility of Marquette Park.
“My wife and I went there to get photos of a sunset and the Gary police told us we’d have to leave, that the park was closing,” said Wayne Randall. “The gates to the parking lots are closed and locked in the evening.”


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Sleater-Kinney is America's best rock band' - Greil Marcus, Time (2001)
Sleater-Kinney is an acclaimed American rock band that formed in Olympia, Washington in 1994.
The band's core lineup consists of Corin Tucker (vocals and guitar), Carrie Brownstein (guitar and vocals), and Janet Weiss (drums).
Sleater-Kinney were known for their feminist, left-leaning politics, and were an integral part of the riot grrrl and indie rock scenes in the Pacific Northwest.
‰Û÷The Woods‰۪ is the seventh and final studio album from Sleater- Kinney, released on May 24, 2005 by Sub Pop.
It was produced by Dave Fridmann and recorded from November 2004 to December 2004 at Tarbox Road Studios in Cassadaga, New York.
‰Û÷The Woods‰۪ reached #80 on the US Billboard Top 200 chart and #2 on the Independent Albums chart.
The album appeared at number four in The Village Voice's ‰Û÷Pazz & Jop‰۪ critics' poll for 2005.
‰ÛÏThey bash Eighties nostalgia, tell a feminist fairy tale and even quiet down for a couple sensitive love songs ‰ÛÒ needed breaks from music so intense you wonder how they can contain its explosiveness‰ - Rolling Stone (100 Best Albums of the 2000‰۪s).
‰ÛÏTo survive these days, you have to be either suicidal or superficial. Sleater-Kinney, meanwhile, get by simply sounding fucking supersonic‰ - Stephen Deusner, Pitchfork (9.0).
The album has been freshly remastered for this release.
This reissue coincides with Sub Pop‰۪s 2014 release of remastered versions of Sleater-Kinney‰۪s six other albums, as well as a limited- edition, deluxe vinyl box set featuring all seven albums.
Vinyl LP includes mp3 coupon.


Ecological modelling with self-organising maps
Old and new ecological models can be classified into two basic categories: Those aimed at (i) gaining more insight into ecological systems and (ii) producing predictive models of ecosystem behaviour. Many of the models successfully applied to ecological modelling are borrowed from other disciplines such as engineering, mathematics and in recent times from intelligent information processing systems motivated by neuro-physiological understandings i.e. 1 artificial neural networks (ANNs). The use of ANNs in ecological modelling is becoming a popular method with considerable success in elucidating the complexity in ecosystem processes. We critically analyse some ecological modelling applications with self-organising maps (SOMs), within the connectionist neural computing paradigms. These are used to unravel the non-linear relationships in highly complex and often cryptic ecosystems from northern New Zealand. A need to accurately predict an ecosystems response to daily increasing human influences on the environment and its biodiversity is considered to be absolutely vital to preserve natural systems. The example illustrated shows SOM abilities to extract more knowledge from the ecological monitoring data of complex matrices with numeric values of environmental and biological indicators, compared to the conventional data analysis methods. Conventional methods are seen as of little use in exploring the non-linear relationships within the data.


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Kelly ends it in overtime as Bruins beat Caps 1-0
Chris Kelly's newest piece of jewelry is a thick, padlocked chain that he wore around his neck after scoring the game-winning goal in Boston's playoff opener on Thursday night.
Join the discussion below, or Read more at KSLA-TV Shreveport.
#1 Apr 13, 2012
Beware the bear is back and he looks hungry again.
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January 11, 2014
The art of Buck Making...i.e. the forms for aluminum auto bodies..
A friend...Mike Siverman
Race car bodies...
I'm an avid antique auto restorer for many years..have several national prizes...sheet metal work aluminum and steel is my passion... look forward to the meeting.. Ivan Segal [masked]


Police have arrested a 17-year-old boy following a robbery in Beaumont Leys on Saturday.
The robbery happened at around 4.30pm on Saturday in an underpass which is directly below Strasbourg Drive and leads to Harris Road.
The 67-year-old victim was approached by someone who asked him for money, before being threatened.
A small amount of money was taken in the incident. No one was injured.
The boy was arrested on suspicion of robbery and is currently in police custody.


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Greetings Earthlings! 🙂
This week I would like to discuss the introduction of an autistic character to the beloved children’s TV show Thomas the Tank Engine (the series has been renamed Thomas & Friends– All Engines’s Go in it’s latest iteration).
In September of 2022, Bruno the Brake Car was introduced to season 2 of ‘All Engines Go‘ following a team-up between the show runners and a number of autism advocacy groups such as the National Autistic Society and Autism Self Advocacy Network (ASAN) in the UK. In creating the character, the creators wanted to reach out to new audiences but to also ensure that their audiences were being fully represented (which makes sense given that so many autists love trains). The creators have also ensured that Bruno is always voiced by an autistic actor- 9 year old Elliot Garcia in the UK and 10 year old Chuck Smith in the USA & Canada.
You can check out Bruno in an episode of the show below:
So what’s Bruno like in the show?
It’s not immediately obvious that Bruno is autistic, but he does have a lot of subtle traits which can help teach neurotypical children about our differences and how to love and accept Bruno as just another train in the yard. The first thing I noticed about Bruno is that he doesn’t make eye contact, his eyes generally shift from side to side and up and down, never directly looking in just one place- something highly relatable for many autists. Every so often Bruno will flap his stepladders, mimicking the hand flapping stimming action of many autists. It’s really subtle, which is quite clever as it helps autists to feel seen whilst also normalizing the behaviour for neurotypical viewers. One of the things I enjoyed most about Bruno was how whenever things were too noisy or when he pushed on the brakes, smoke subtly came down over his ears in the shape of noise cancelling headphones- a true stroke of genius from the animators!
Bruno is also very literal, for example when Thomas describes Diesel as a ‘steamroller’ for his careless racing, Bruno get’s very confused as Diesel is a shunter/switcher train not a steamroller, prompting Thomas to explain that he was acting like a steamroller but not physically one. As a brake car, Bruno likes things slow and orderly, and is obsessed with routine and the train timetable, often getting unsettled when the other trains are off schedule. He’s also very funny, frequently cracking puns and using comedy to get through difficult situations- something I’m very familiar with it. It’s nice to see autists portrayed as having a good sense of humour as too often we’re depicted as gormless and immune to punchlines.
Overall Bruno’s characterization is spot on, nice and subtle and a great character to represent the autistic community. I would say however the choice of using yellow detailing on Bruno as an autistic character is a little unusual, as some autists have colour sensitivity issues, with the colour yellow being particularly triggering.
Hope you enjoyed this post dear Earthlings! 🙂
Have a lovely weekend!
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Undiscovered Realm Comic-Con 2017
April 8-9, 2017
Westchester County Center
White Plains, NY
We are excited to announce that the Undiscovered Realm Comic Con will be returning April 8th and 9th to the Westchester County Center in White Plains, NY.
This year the event will be taking place on the main floor so it will be even bigger and better. More fans, vendors, artists, cosplay, panels, video game tournaments, famous vehicles, and celebrity guests. Kids 10 and under are Free!
Undiscovered Realm Comic-Con 2017 Guests
- David Yost - Actor
Undiscovered Realm Comic-Con 2017 Reports and Photos
- No reports found.


Our masonry factory has been constantly advancing in technological development over the last 10 years.
See a typical day in the Masonry Factory Here:
We are constantly researching what machinery is being developed to enable the work that we do to be produced more efficiently.
Our investments in the latest technology enable us to fulfil any projects however ambitious, artistic & precise our customers’ requirements are.
Robostone Digital Stone Carving Robot
When we purchased the Robostone multi axis digital stone carving robot in 2008, it increased our capability to take on complex projects massively. We became an extraordinary stone cutting business, belonging to a very exclusive group of masonry workshops worldwide with this advanced technology.
We are able to create magnificent detailed multi-dimensional work on this machine, which takes its instructions from computer fed files. The diamond tipped carving tool is attached to a robotic arm that works on 7 axis giving a 360 degree range. Using our Digital robot we have done work for leading sculptors creating really important pieces of work.
Evolution x5 Water Jet Cutter
In 2013 we purchased our Evolution x5 water jet cutter. This machine can cut with pinpoint accuracy using water pressure and garnet sand particles. We use this mostly for 2D work such as inlaid lettering, but also on any extremely detailed worktop cuts.
The water jet cutter is extremely versatile, having the ability to work on 5 axis up to 69 degree angle incline. Very few masonry workshops have this piece of kit at their disposal. Although we are a masonry factory, this waterjetcutter can cut many different materials. It works using a very high water pressure stream carrying garnet (mineral) particles to create a very accurate cut, which is directed by automated programming.
Weha Bridge Saw
For massive cutting jobs we have our Weha bridge saw.
We also use this for the initial cuts in more straightforward worktop production
Our wire saw is another cool piece of kit.
It uses diamond impregnated beads on a cable to cut huge blocks of stone.
We used this recently to cut a massive stone block
for sculptor Liz Middleton
GMM Intra CNC Saw
Our most recent investment is the GMM Intra CNC Saw.
This enables us to speed up worktop production as it is highly automated, and accurate.
We will be able to program this machine to cut items such as fireplaces and worktops.
For edge profiling on worktop edges and pool copings
where we are creating bull-nosing or pencil edges we use the Kolb Genius.
The guys who work in the factory are highly skilled creative people who love their work.
Our investment in the right kit for the job makes them very proud of the work they can produce.
Our investments put us way ahead of the average worktop fabricator. All our work is done accurately in our factory using precision cutting equipment.
However, there are still a few jobs that our skilled men need to do by hand, such as polishing.
Alongside our investment in the latest machinery we have developed the factory working environment to make it as pleasant as possible for our guys. Our most recent upgrade has seen us install LED lighting throughout to reduce our energy use and create a well-lit work space.
Ceragioli MCC30 Dry Jet, Air Filtration System
We have also just completed installation of a super-efficient, air filtration system,
Ceragioli MCC30 Dry Jet, which makes the air in our factory as dust free as possible,
increasing the comfort and well-being of our employees.
Watch this space, we are always looking for ways to make improvements!


These areas have generously spaced, high quality housing for the price.
Fan support and interest, particularly for the Steelers football team, is legendary.
The downtown area is vibrant and active, with nightlife along the river and ample downtown shopping.
Educational opportunities die besten sex dating apps Indien are excellent, particularly with Duquesne and Carnegie-Mellon universities and the University of Pittsburgh.Most of Pittsburgh lies in a narrow valley, with high, wooded bluffs surrounding the city.Pittsburgh has a tremendous base of headquarters operations for.S.The population is ethnically diverse.Early industrial wealth endowed the city with numerous cultural assets.Excellent residential neighborhoods and suburban towns extend in all directions.Once a rough and gritty center for the steelmaking industry, Pittsburgh is now sex Täter Registrierung 44319 home to one lone blast furnace and a wide assortment of other industries.Winters are cool and variable with intermittent periods of freezing and thawing.Fog may persist in the valleys during colder months.The neighborhoods have unique identities and the citys planning department recognizes more than 90 in all.Correct time: hora exacta, aktuelle zeit, hora certa, ora esatta, heure, reloj.Just tell us what you are looking for.Book today to cash in on cheap deals on your impeccable West Hickory car rental.Book Your Vehicle with m, maybe you're carpooling with co-workers to and from the hotel to the conference center, maybe you're traveling solo, or maybe you're bringing your partner or kids in tow.
The former grime and smoke have largely blown away, leaving a livable city with historic and revitalized neighborhoods and plenty.


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All Colin Leffee wants is to be left alone: to run his used bookstore in peace, and to quietly drink himself to sleep every night in an attempt to drown out the memories of eight-hundred-plus years of existence.
Unfortunately, when a sullen teenage changeling is flung out of Faerie and onto his doorstep, the long-suffering, wayward son of Titania knows his dreams of solitude are dust. Colin—or Lord Coileán, as he is known to his family and the rest of the court—must track down Meggy, the love of his life, and figure out how her child ended up in Titania's clutches to begin with.
But with family, it’s never simple. He finds Meggy, only to have her and their daughter yanked into Faerie—and the doors between the realms slammed and locked behind them. Now, it’s not just their lives at stake...but the fate of magic itself.
Always the loner, Colin reluctantly joins forces with an intensely stubborn wizard, a young priest-in-training who fancies himself a knight, and his half-brother Robin (the last most definitely not by choice) on a quest to reopen the doors and restore the balance between the realms. And with exiled queen Mab plotting in the shadows to take Titania’s throne, and the wizards of the governing Arcanum hiding their own agenda, Colin can’t be sure whom to trust—or whether he’ll live long enough to see the mission through.
The Faerie King
Ruling Faerie isn’t all it’s cracked up to be…
Colin Leffee—Lord Coileán these days—has it all. His once-lost love is back in his life and willing to give him another chance, their daughter’s magical bind and fake memories seem secure, and his hold on his mother’s vacated throne hasn’t wavered during his six-month reign. True, ruling a faerie court comes with the headache of superintending his quarrelsome people and placating his hostile siblings, but Coileán envisions smooth sailing ahead.
But then his resident would-be knight stumbles onto a baby dragon. A sea monster in south Florida sends the merrow into a panic. The captain of his guard learns a secret with consequences for the future of the courts. Meanwhile, the Arcanum has its own nasty surprise in store for the novice king.
And with Mab’s demise, a new power is rising in the Gray Lands—one willing to do whatever it takes to seize his birthright.
For Coileán, the cost of his throne may be everything—and everyone—he holds dear.


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The conclusion found no evidence that vaccines cause autism or Type 1 diabetes.
The Institute of Medicine review found convincing evidence of 14 already known side effects linked to various vaccines, such as allergic reactions and fever-triggered seizures from the measles vaccine. But like other scientific reports, it found no evidence linking immunization and autism or another serious problem, Type 1 diabetes.
Fears about a link between vaccines and autism have led some parents to refuse vaccinations. Experts hope Thursday's findings reverse that trend.
A vaccine study performed by the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention found only half of teen girls in the U.S. received the HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccine. Experts believe the low rate is due to parents being uncomfortable with sexual issues associated with HPV.
Girls are supposed to start the series when they are 11 or 12 - before most girls become sexually active. The vaccine only works if a girl is vaccinated before she's first exposed to the virus.
But some parents may misunderstand, thinking their daughters don't need it at such a young age because they aren't sexually active. Others may believe that it would require a discussion about sex and sexuality - a talk they may not feel ready to have, some experts said.
Rhode Island and Washington had the highest HPV vaccination rates, both around 70 percent for at least one shot. Idaho had the lowest rates, at about 29 percent.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.

domain: biology


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Ytrucks X5 34mm
April 12, 2017 18:38 - 11 months ago
Brand New X5 34mm Series
This is our stage 5 in the Fingerboard trucks design. We made a new mold size 34MM and improved the stress points from our previous versions, making the X5 the most advanced truck made to date.
The stainless steel axle also has longer thread so you can use a larger variety of wheels without wobbles. These wider trucks have a lower center of gravity making your setup more stable on pop, grind and landing.
Take your Fingerboarding to next level!!
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domain: hobby


I just invested a year of time and a good chunk of $$$ building me an elk rifle...its a 30-06...because, while I can shoot a 300 mag just fine, I simply don't enjoy shooting it as much.
You don't need a magnum for 350 yard elk...a properly loaded 30-06 will work just fine out to 500 (even 600 in the right hands).
Pay attention to the weight of the rifle...lighter is better (easier to carry at 5,000 feet), at least up to the point that it gets painful to shoot.
My rifle came out at 9 lbs. even...and in a 30-06, its a dream to shoot, no problem at all...it may be a bit heavier than many of the so called "mountain rifles", but not so much that I can't carry it...light enough to carry, heavy enough to shoot...thats where its at.
If you really want a magnum, get one...but you don't "need" one.


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I harvested my shallots and garlic today, they looked so pathetic compared to last years bountiful harvest. I certainly will not have to sort out where to store them, they will be used up in a couple of weeks. I can only blame the weather and maybe I did not water them enough in the prolonged dry spell. Growing vegetables can be like that some years you win and some you just have to try and do better next year.
No good crying over my onions, at least the potatoes I am harvesting are OK. The dry weather has I think reduced the amount of yield from them but they are a healthy looking crop.
I do not put ads on my blog but do have a counter that shows me how many visits the pages get. (The stats. count is just there so I can see if I am 'talking' to myself, luckily so far this has not happened.) By continuing your visit here you are consenting to the stats. counter tracking cookies. Cookies, that sounds like something nice to eat but not that exciting.
Growing Your Own Fruit and Vegetables
We grow our own fruit and vegetables for our meals for as much of the year as we can. Without a greenhouse we have to buy shop food in the winter months but in the spring, summer and autumn we often have enough to share with family and friends.
Read about growing your fruit and vegetables here on my growing your own food pages.

domain: agronomy


In response to the high demand of the operation reliability by implementing real-time monitoring and system health management, a robust fault estimation and fault-tolerant control approach is proposed for Takagi– Sugeno fuzzy systems in this study, by integrating the augmented system method, unknown input fuzzy observer design, linear matrix inequality optimization, and signal compensation techniques. Specifically, a fuzzy augmented system method is used to construct an augmented plant with the concerned faults and system states being the augmented states. An unknown input fuzzy observer technique is thus utilized to estimate the augmented states and decouple unknown inputs that can be decoupled. A linear matrix inequality approach is further addressed to ensure the global stability of the estimation error dynamics and attenuate the influences from the unknown inputs that cannot be decoupled. As a result, the robust estimates of the concerned faults and system states can be obtained simultaneously. Based on the fault estimates, a signal compensation scheme is developed to remove the effects of the faults on the system dynamics and outputs, leading to a stable dynamic satisfying the expected performance. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed Takagi–Sugeno model based fault estimation and signal compensation algorithms is demonstrated by a case study on a 4.8-MW wind turbine benchmark system.


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faithunfaltered's Video ChannelLast Updated 2014-06-06T00:39:28
With only a voice the world was spoken into existence. Through the Word we are set free. With my voice and my word I live to glorify the one true king.
FaithUnfaltered: I Will w/ lyrics
FaithUnfaltered music I Will with lyrics. Available on all web stores and streaming services.


When I first read that the BBC soap opera EastEnders was gearing up for a storyline involving a Muslim man locking lips with a gay character my first reaction was, who watches EastEnders anymore anyway and well, how about that for a sensationalist stunt to win a tired old soap some headlines while sending the rightwing tabloids into a frenzy at the gay-Muslim spectacle.
And I could almost anticipate the ensuing chatter, likely to lament the over-exposure of Muslims who are either being pandered to by the PC brigade or displaying hot-headed overreaction at the slightest provocation.
So far so predictable. Or is it? News of the plot comes just weeks after a Gallup survey was widely reported as revealing that British Muslims have a 0% approval rating of gay lifestyles. It would be unwise to jump to conclusions based on this figure. The truth is that while the issue of homosexuality in Islam is one that preoccupies many non-Muslims, it is not a defining aspects of belief for the majority of Muslims. In simple terms, for the average Muslim going about his or her business, it is hardly a primary concern what strangers get up to between the sheets.
Yes, traditional Islamic opinion, in line with the other Abrahamic faiths, advocates and promotes sexual expression between a husband and wife and disapproves of anything that falls outside those boundaries, hence the 0% statistic. But that does not translate into the sanctioning hostility, discrimination or violence against those who occupy another position on the sexuality spectrum.
Isolating quotes in the Qur'an and hadith to claim that Islam advocates punishment by death for homosexuals is simplistic. Such evidence is disputed and nevertheless punishment is subject to near-impossible conditions rendering it un-actionable. The Muslim community would do well to work towards seeing homosexuality not as something to be for or to be against, but rather as a fact of life. Because that is exactly what it is for gay Muslims, whether they act upon their feelings or not.
To pretend that homosexuality does not exist within the Muslim community in Britain is deluded. Increasingly confident gay Muslim support groups have recently emerged to provide a voice for the minority and acknowledge its presence.
Exploring sexuality outside marriage is an intensely personal experience and any portrayal in a soap opera of a Muslim embarking on a homosexual affair is likely to attract accusations of opportunism, particularly with Muslims already feeling so negatively scrutinised.
But it may be worth Muslims holding fire and not giving their detractors the satisfaction of reacting as might be expected. EastEnders producers have stated their intention to approach the story from the perspective of personal conflict and entanglement rather than casting judgment upon an entire religion.
Those who wish to can watch to see whether this proves to be the case. The rest can carry on as before.


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We are pleased to announce that the ANNE BOWEN Bridal Collection will returning to Florida with a special trunk show event at Bacio Bacio Bridal. Brides will have the opportunity to view the latest collection by designer Anne Bowen known for her red carpet approach to bridal. The collection has already garnered praise from brides and critics alike. (Oscar comparisons have already made).
Bacio Bacio Bridal
9160 Forest Hill Boulevard


Sims Uterine Biopsy Curette 10" Extra Small Sharp Loop Outside Measures 2.5x5 mm
Sims Uterine Biopsy Curette is widely used to remove the uterine tissues during surgical procedures. It comes with multiple variations so that you can grab the best one of your choice. It is crafted from German surgical stainless steel and can be reused after sterilization.
5 Years Warranty
Return & WarrantyEasy Returns If any of our instrument Malfunctions or conk outs, we’re here to repair or replace your instrument depending upon the warranty of the tool. Warranty Details
The below instruments manufactured by GerMedUSA have limited warranties:
• Tungsten carbide Scissors > 5 years
• Tungsten Carbide Needle holders > 1 year
• Diamond Dust instruments > 1 year
• Titanium instruments > 3 years
• Silver or Chrome plated instruments > 1 year
• Super-cut scissors > 1 year
Shipping OptionsWorldwide Shipping We ship via UPS and USPS. Any First time Orders which exceed $300.00 or more automatically qualify for free standard shipping (US Only), this excludes Puerto Rico, Hawaii & Alaska.
Sims Uterine Curettes are highly versatile instruments widely used to remove the uterine tissues during surgical procedures. They come with multiple variations such as curette 10", extra small sharp loop, outside, measures 2.5x5 mm. Surgeons can pick the best one, depending on their preferences and surgical needs. The small sharp loop allows quick pickup of the sample without causing any damage to nearby tissues or surgical areas. The instrument also feature a malleable version that is best for manipulation to achieve the practitioner's angle for easy access. Both malleable and rigid types have an overall length that ranges from 2.5mm to 5 mm and is hollow. The instrument body is manufactured from high-grade German surgical stainless steel and thus can be reused after sterilization. Low maintenance is required due to having high tensile strength and resistance against environmental changes. This metal keeps it lightweight and rustproof.
GerMedUSA offers an extensive range of curettes with multiple variations. Our versatile instruments are perfect to be a part of your amazing surgical kit for years if cared for properly. We can also design surgeons' custom kit packs according to their needs. The instruments are all fine, durable, and sharp.
|Item Type:||Sims Uterine Biopsy Curette|
|Curvature:||Sharp Loop Outside Measures 2.5x5 mm|
|Unit of Measure:||Each|


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This is how to reach us: Sign posts show the way to our camping site.
In the town centre from Traisen, turn right at the church.
Motorway A-1: Exit St. Pölten Süd (59).
On the national route B-20 follow the signs southwards for about 10 miles, direction Mariazell until center of Traisen.
Then follow camping signs
Motorway A-2: Exit Leobersdorf, On the national route B-18 westwards via Hainfeld until Traisen.
At roundabout go left until center of Traisen (1 mile).
Then follow camping signs.
N 48° 02,545′
E 15° 36,177′
By Westbahn until St. Pölten,
change at „Traisen Bahnhof“ and go one station
until station „Traisen Markt“.
We pick you up! Please call us in advance.
Phone: +43 (0) 27 62 / 62 900

domain: travel


The Hills Are Alive – with Love!
From Lauren Conrad and Kristin Cavallari to Brody Jenner and Audrina Patridge, find out who the MTV stars are smooching now
More from PEOPLE
- Friday Actor Reynaldo Rey Dies at 75
- Read the Cover Story: The Duggars' Dark Secrets
- Drew Barrymore Gets Her Groove On at Dance-Party Workout Class
- From EW: Future Scientists Can Apply for a Big Bang Theory Scholarship at UCLA
- Twitter Has Lots of Feelings About The Bachelor Chris Soules & Whitney Bischoff's Split


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News and Information as Digital Media Come of Age
Media Re:public paper series now available
We are pleased to announce a major research release:
Media Re:public: News and Information as Digital Media Come of Age,
a series of papers exploring the potential and the challenges of the emerging networked digital media environment.
The Media Re:public series was put together over the course of a year of examining the news media in the U.S., engaging with journalists, bloggers, citizen journalists, public broadcasters, publishers, advertising networks, researchers, technologists, and many others. (John Palfrey's account is here.) It builds on previous discussions, such as the 2005 Blogging, Journalism & Credibility conference, and highlights the need for a new public conversation about reinventing journalism in the public interest. This inclusive conversation should aim to build on the best from all areas -- the energy of participatory media and the expertise of professional journalists, the competitive drive of commercial media and the commitment to excellence of public broadcasters, the dedication and deep knowledge of community organizations and advocacy groups and the interests and energy of the public. The Media Re:public project’s research process benefited from a large and varied group of contributors, authors, and interlocutors. The project was supported by the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation.
Please share the video! then visit the Media Re:public paper series download site to access:
- News and Information as Digital Media Come of Age (Persephone Miel, Robert Faris)
- International News: Bringing about the Golden Age (Ethan Zuckerman)
- Principles for a New Media Literacy (Dan Gillmor)
- Public Broadcasting and Public Affairs: Opportunities and challenges for public broadcasting’s role in provisioning the public with news and public affairs (Pat Aufderheide, Jessica Clark)
- Digital Media, Democracy and Diversity: an Imperfect Discourse (Ernest J. Wilson III)
- Pride of Place: Mainstream Media and the Networked Public Sphere (John Kelly)
- Editors -- the best is yet to come? (Tom Stites)
- A Typology for Media Organizations
- iReport: Participatory Media Joins a Global News Brand
- The Gothamist Network: Gateway to Local News?
- The Forum, Deerfield, NH: Seeking Sustainability in Hyperlocal Journalism
- The Chi-Town Daily News: Creating a New Supply of Local News
On balance, Media Re:public is cautiously optimistic. There have never been more people involved in the media; their energy has enormous potential to expand the reach of journalism and to bring it closer to the people who need it. The tools that are enabling new kinds of reporting, flexible ways to combine information, and networks that connect people to information and to each other are getting better and better. There are thousands of organizations and skilled people steeped in a strong journalistic tradition whose expertise is irreplaceable. Despite the economic downturn, the world’s largest advertising market and America’s strong traditions of institutional and personal philanthropy represent fantastic resources.
Congratulations to Persephone Miel -- and the legions of great people who worked on and debated every aspect of this important project!
You might also like
- storyVideo your vote

domain: library


07 March, 2022
Category : Power Shift in the News | tags: Al Jazeera
Climate change is upon us and humanity is far from ready, the United Nations climate science panel warned in a major report on Monday.
Noting nearly half the world’s population was already vulnerable to increasingly dangerous climate impacts, the report called for drastic action on a huge scale.
...Mohamed Adow, from the climate think-tank Power Shift Africa, said: “This IPCC report is a fire alarm for the planet. As a species we are currently failing to adapt to this changing world. Or more accurately, the rich, polluting, global north has changed the planet through fossil fuel burning and is now refusing to help those suffering the effects.”


The electric heating tube is uniformly distributed high temperature resistance wire in the high temperature resistant stainless steel seamless tube, densely filled with crystalline magnesium oxide powder with good thermal conductivity and insulation performance in the gap, this structure is not only advanced, high thermal efficiency, but also generates heat evenly. When current flows through the high-temperature resistance wire, the generated heat diffuses to the surface of the metal tube through the crystalline magnesium oxide powder, and then is transferred to the heated part or air to heat.
The surface of the flat heating tube is definitely not charged. Because the metal shell and the resistance wire are filled with insulating magnesium oxide powder. Therefore, the resistance wire only transfers heat through magnesium oxide powder, but not electricity. Therefore, the surface of the heating tube is not charged.
All in all, the surface of the heating tube is not charged, but the terminal is charged.


It’s our first live podcast as well as our first anniversary! We receive an unexpected offer of champagne and Neil deGrasse Tyson writes his master’s thesis!
(Or subscribe and rate us on your favorite podcasting platform!)
This episode features host Aaron Littleton, Paul Simmons and Matt Chadourne!
Be sure to come check out our live shows every Tuesday at 8pm at Scruffy City Hall in Market Square! There’s no cover and there’s plenty of chances to participate and give suggestions! While you’re at it, like us on Facebook as well!


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Call for City Council review of appeals boards variances
By Albert Amateau
Public officials and community representatives who have long-standing grievances with the Board of Standards and Appeals for granting variances that allow developers to build projects that exceed criteria mandated by the city zoning resolution welcomed a proposal on Monday that would give the City Council an option to review B.S.A. decisions.
Community board members from Manhattan and Queens and neighborhood preservation advocates from Lower Manhattan and the Village gave their wholehearted support at a Monday hearing to the proposal by City Councilmember Tony Avella of Queens for a City Charter change calling for City Council review of the B.S.A.
But lawyers who represent developers at the Board of Standards and Appeals denounced the proposal, saying it would politicize a process that was established to safeguard the 1916 zoning resolution. The lawyers also pointed out that civic groups that disagree with the B.S.A could challenge the rulings in court.
However, Avella, chairperson of the Zoning Subcommittee of the Council Land Use Committee, replied that B.S.A. is itself a political body whose five commissioners are appointed by the mayor. Unfortunately, the B.S.A. continues to grant variances and special permits in direct contradiction to recommendations of community boards, civic groups and elected officials, said Avella.
No government body comprised solely of appointed positions should wield this kind of power, which should be vested in elected officials who are responsive to the desires and opinions of those they represent, he said.
However, a City Charter change requires approval by voters in a referendum, Avella said the day after the hearing. He acknowledged that the mayor controls which issues are put to voters through his appointments to the City Charter Revision Commission. Avella said the use of the Charter Revision Commission to keep referendums such as class size off the ballot was itself an abuse of power.
I asked the mayors liaison to our committee last week about support for the [B.S.A.] change but they hadnt taken a position yet, said Avella. Jennifer Falk, of Mayor Bloombergs press office who took a call from The Villager on Tuesday asking for the mayors position on the issue, did not call back with a response by press time.
Many at the Monday hearing agreed that B.S.A. rulings often amount to rezoning outside of the required City Planning process.
Theyve become the primary port of entry for zoning changes, bypassing the City Planning Commission, said David Gruber, a member of the South Village Landmark Association. The B.S.A. has become a mini-state thats run amok. It is not the quasi-judicial body that lawyers who practice before it claim, he added.
Gruber was responding to Sheldon Lobell, a lawyer who specializes in B.S.A. cases, who said that allowing a legislative body like the Council to review rulings by an appeals board like the B.S.A. would violate the principle of separation of the legislative, executive and judicial powers of government. Lobell also said the B.S.A. is often very responsive to community concerns.
Nevertheless, supporters far outnumbered opponents of the proposal.
What we are facing is an abuse of power, said Zack Winestine, co-chairperson of the Greenwich Village Community Task Force. The problem is wealthy developers coming to make a fast buck at the expense of the zoning process, Winestine said. He cited a B.S.A. variance that resulted in the Morton Sq. residential complex on a former manufacturing block bounded by Morton, Leroy, Washington and West Sts. that changed a manufacturing district into a residential district.
Albert Bennett, of the Morton St. Block Association, also cited the decision that resulted in the Morton Sq. complex as devastating to a neighborhood that was a delicate balance of manufacturing, residential and commercial uses. I look forward to your help in curbing these unwarranted variances, Bennett said.
The B.S.A. is mandated to consider a variance request in the light of five findings; A) there are unique conditions in the property, its shape or underlying conditions like water or bedrock outcropping; B) there is no reasonable expectation of a fair return on investment; C) the variance must be compatible with the character of a community; D) the hardship must not be created by the developer seeking the variance, and E) the application must be for the minimum variance that would cure the hardship.
Richard Barrett, of the Canal West Coalition, said the argument that City Council oversight of the B.S.A. would politicize a semi-judicial process was false. Even in 1916 when the B.S.A. was established it was a problematic board, he said. The five findings necessary for a variance were part of a legislative amendment imposed because of loosely defined variance criteria, he said. In an interview later, Barrett questioned whether a City Charter change was the only way to impose a review of B.S.A. decisions.
Barrett also noted that testimony before the B.S.A. is not sworn testimony as it is in court or in boards like the B.S.A. in other cities.
Developers tend to overestimate the cost of building and underestimate the end value of a project, Barrett said. If the B.S.A. went back to a project that was built under the variance granted, theyd see the discrepancies, he added.
Going to court to challenge a B.S.A. ruling is not a good idea, according to Barrett. The courts are not equipped to judge engineering decisions or financial analyses, he said.
Assemblymember Deborah Glick submitted written testimony in favor of the proposal for Council oversight of the B.S.A. As the assemblymember representing the neighborhoods of Union Sq., Noho, Soho, Tribeca and the Village, I have witnessed numerous instances of B.S.A.s ineffectiveness, or perhaps unwillingness, to stop the intrusion of inappropriate buildings into our neighborhood, Glick said. In the case of 408 Greenwich St., the B.S.A. granted a bulk variance to allow a tower nearly twice the height of neighboring buildings. Rewarding cynical developers by permitting them to claim hardship for conditions known and existing at the time they purchase a property is a break of public trust, she said.
However, Howard Weiss, attorney for the developer of 408 Greenwich St., said later that the project had the approval of the Landmarks Preservation Commission and was supported by the Lower Manhattan Development Corp. He called it an exemplary project that showed faith in the future of Tribeca and Lower Manhattan.
Doris Diether, a well-known zoning consultant and a member of Community Board 2 also submitted written testimony supporting Council oversight of the B.S.A. She likened the proposal to the City Councils ability to choose to review City Planning zoning actions under the Uniform Land Use Review Procedure, a process that works very well, she said. Many of the arguments used by applicants such as unique conditions are not always adequately challenged by the B.S.A., Diether said. She also said the B.S.A. spends a lot more time on findings about the unique conditions of a property and the likelihood of realizing a reasonable return on investment than on any of the other findings.
The impact on the community is usually the least concern to the Board of Standards and Appeals, Diether observed.


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Watch: “Running Man” Teases Star-Studded Christmas Special With Girls’ Generation’s Sooyoung, Sung Hoon, Park Ha Na, And More
SBS’s “Running Man” will be celebrating Christmas with a festive and star-studded special!
On December 16, the variety show aired a preview of next week’s Christmas-themed episode, which will feature guests Hwang Chi Yeol, Sung Hoon, Park Ha Na, Jeon Hye Bin, Han Sun Hwa, and Girls’ Generation’s Choi Sooyoung.
The newly released preview begins by teasing the final installment of the show’s “Year-End Payments” race, with Yoo Jae Suk, Jun So Min, and Ji Suk Jin hoping to meet legendary Hong Kong actor Chow Yun Fat in his hometown.
After hearing some good news from the production crew, Jun So Min remarks, “If things go well, we might be able to meet him!” The trio then appears to embark on a search for the actor, asking “Where is he?” As the caption teases a “miracle,” Yoo Jae Suk looks surprised as he asks the staff members, “Now?” Ji Suk Jin similarly exclaims, “This is unbelievable! Really?”
The preview goes on to pique viewers’ curiosity by hiding the identity of an approaching mystery guest as Yoo Jae Suk says, “He’s coming, he’s coming!”
Back in Korea, all eight members of “Running Man” gather for a Christmas party with an impressive lineup of guest stars. HaHa is especially excited to see actor Sung Hoon, jumping into his arms while shouting, “I like him so much!” Meanwhile, actress Park Ha Na praises someone by saying, “This person is really great.”
Jeon Hye Bin surprises the cast by announcing that she intends to form a couple with Ji Suk Jin, while Lee Kwang Soo and Yoo Jae Suk attempt to impress prospective partners Han Sun Hwa and Sooyoung with their dancing skills.
The clip ends on a cliffhanger, with the “Running Man” cast looking confused as they inspect a mysterious drawing. The cast members ask each other, “What is this?” and “What secret is he hiding?” Kim Jong Kook says accusingly, “As soon as things started, he went over there,” and Ji Suk Jin exclaims defensively, “I don’t know what’s going on either!”
“Running Man” will air its “Miracle of Christmas” episode on December 21 at 4:50 p.m. KST. In the meantime, check out the preview below!
You can also watch the latest episode of “Running Man” with English subtitles here:


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A rural distillery near Wick, Caithness, which opened in 1826.
Highland single malt Scotch whisky
Brabster distillery was one of several short-lived distilleries populating the Scottish Highlands at the end of the 18th century.
It was located at Brabster farm, about 12 miles due north of Wick and just a few miles southwest of John o' Groats, and would have drawn water from a nearby stream.
George Sutherland licensed Brabster distillery in 1798, but closed it later that year.
- 1798 George Sutherland opens Brabster distillery but closes the site later that year
An early Caithness distillery near Halkirk that at one point encompassed two sites.
One of the very earliest registered distilleries in Caithness, indeed the whole of Scotland.
A short-lived distillery near Thurso, Caithness, noted as ‘operating’ in 1851-52.

domain: history


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Rainbow Dust Jewel Decorators Glitter is straight from the Sparkle range, a non-toxic, glitter-dust that is not edible and is for decorative use only.
The “Jewel” colours are vibrant and bright! The rich black colour will add an elegant sparkle to any creation. From black handbags to black cats, give your creation a finishing touch to steal everyone's attention. They are highly reflective and shine with the same colour throughout.
Rainbow Dust Colours boasts to be one of the only businesses to offer a non-toxic glitter, which falls inside the FSA guidelines for 'Food Contact' glitters.
They are to be used on decorations that would be removed prior to eating.
- 5g per pot
- Not edible
- Extra bright and ultra-fine
- Part of the Sparkle Range of decorative glitter
- For decorative use only
Rainbow Dust Jewel Jet Black Decorators Glitter 5g


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Chino, Spice read for change
Hasani Walters, Gleaner Writer
"No entertainment is so cheap as reading, nor any pleasure so lasting."
That quote by English aristocrat and writer, Lady Mary Wortley Montagu was embodied on Wednesday as members of the entertainment industry read to happy students at the Maverley Primary and Junior High School in St Andrew.
The effort was a part of the Read Across Jamaica initiative.
Among those who participated were Grace 'Spice' Hamilton, Daniel 'Chino' McGregor, Nicole Morrison and Winsome Cousins of the Broadcasting Commission of Jamaica and Brandon Allwood, chief advocate of the Help Jamaica's Children organisation.
"Once upon a time in India, there was a town called Boring. It was by the side of Dull Lake. The people of Boring never smiled; they did not know how to - whether it was grown-ups or children," read Spice as she began reading the story, A Town Called Boring.
Spice, who loves to read, told Sunday Gleaner Entertainment that as a child, one of her favourite books was Little Red Riding Hood.
She believes that reading plays an integral part in the development of a child.
"When I heard the idea of coming to read for the kids, I jumped to it right away because reading is very important and it says a lot, especially when starting from a tender age growing up into an adult. When you read a lot, it helps very well with your imagination. It involves every aspect of life. If you can't read, you can't have a proper future," shared Spice.
She chose to read this book to teach the "importance of smiling and showing love and that hard work and no play makes jack a dull boy".
Chino read from one of his favourite books, the Bible. He read the story of Cain and Abel.
He believes that as an entertainer, a role model to many of the nation's children, emphasis should be put on the importance of reading and a good education.
After his reading, he had a good experience with the children and looked forward to coming back.
The students were buzzing with excitement upon the news that the two were present at the school. They could be heard uttering various comments as they conversed, some peering through windows to catch a glimpse of the entertainers.
They were met with a loud chorus of "good afternoon" upon entrance to each classroom and as they read in different classes, the students listened intently.
Upon requests from the students, Chino did a performance of From Mawning (Never Change) ... twice. The children sang along.
They hit the desk in rhythmic fashion and clapped to add to his vocals.
Rudolph Thomas, acting vice-principal of the school, appreciated the entertainers' efforts.
"It is a bold venture. I really appreciate it because these students have these artistes as their role models. So once they will see that these people are interested in reading and willing to impart it, then I think that will motivate them to do the same."
Allwood, who was instrumental in organising a recent march and rally in St Andrew which was supported by several entertainers, said he was grateful to have the interaction with the students.
He said, "I'm grateful for the opportunity to interact with children in a meaningful way, and reading is one of those ways. Personally, my belief is that reading opens life's many doors and as a nation, we must encourage recreational reading as a habit for our children and encourage them to read outside of classrooms and school."


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This treasury of classic blues includes 38 songs and instrumental pieces from the first two decades of the twentieth century — the era that witnessed the birth and initial popularity of the blues. Written by such masters as the legendary W. C. Handy, "Jelly Roll" Morton, and the prolific Luckeyth ("Lucky") Roberts, this bountiful collection includes: Beale Street, The St. Louis Blues, The Hesitating Blues, The Memphis Blues, Joe Turner Blues, The Jelly Roll Blues, The Down Home Blues, Railroad Blues, Crazy Blues, If You Don't Believe I Love You, The Farmyard Blues, I'm Crazy 'Bout Your Lovin', Long Gone, 99 Blues, and 24 other classics of the era.
Reproduced directly from rare sheet music (including the original covers), this collection will thrill both amateur and professional players and all lovers of the great popular music of yesteryear.
|Availability||Usually ships in 24 to 48 hours|
|Author/Editor||David A. Jasen|
|Dimensions||9 x 12|


Star Trek: Today. (YES!!)
or..Star Trek (For the next generation – LITERALLY – it’s been over 10 years – series timeline found below)
My Reaction Timeline:
Pre Discovery, first reaction to The Orville
(scroll down to skip the ramble and go to my current thoughts and links with easter eggs. Disclaimer: I only have a casual POV. So in the meantime…)
Make it so Seth MacFarlane!
Come on Discovery!
Aside from the unfortunate acronym ‘ST:D’ (get checked: end of PSA) and The Orville being seen as a series version of Galaxy Quest, I’m personally excited/anxious about having not one but 2 Star Trek series in my adulthood. Now I never really saw The Original Series, I grew up on Next Generation. And my series rankings are ST:NG, ST:Voy, DS9, and the rest. And this year I managed to meet (read photo-op) with Wesley Crusher aka Wil Wheaton (table top god) and Deanna Troi and Worf.
Now I’ve read some reviews and some comments on Facebook related to how Discovery predates the series we grew up with and how it’s promotes diversity. Unfortunately, that is interpreted by lifelong fans as ‘shoving it down our throats, we know what Star Trek is.’ I can understand the frustration they are hungry for more Star Trek but don’t care for social commentary. I get why promotional interviews lean in this direction: get. More. Star. Trek. Fans.
The Orville: I saw the first two episodes of Orville and then read reviews after my first episode. I can’t disagree about the whole cosplaying Star Trek feel. But when I saw the first episode I enjoyed it. Seth MacFarlane is a well know fan (http://www.startrek.com/database_article/macfarlane ) and (http://memory-alpha.wikia.com/wiki/Seth_MacFarlane). The second episode was okay. I look forward to more.
As for Discovery, they had a huge premiere and even reassurance from Number #1 himself that fans need not fear.
I look forward to a new series 12 years after Enterprise.
**I just saw the 3rd episode of The Orville. Seth MacFarlane went there..and handled the story like a Trek fan and would make his predecessors proud.
ST Series timeline, thanks wiki
- 3.1 The Original Series (1966–69)
- 3.2 The Animated Series (1973–74)
- 3.3 The Next Generation (1987–94)
- 3.4 Deep Space Nine (1993–99)
- 3.5 Voyager (1995–2001)
- 3.6 Enterprise (2001–05)
- 3.7 Discovery (2017–present)
After Sunday broadcast (though some viewers may have missed parts due to 60 minutes):
I’ve seen the first episode, because that’s all we are allowed since its going to streaming only which is extra. Many fans will be discouraged from watching it because of this. But as we all know with Game of Thrones (one of the most pirated shows) there’s more than one way to watch a show. (Not that I’m advocating..just saying[of course ST:D has been pirated])
So why why why do we have to subscribe again?..well it shows who wants something badly enough – even though it’s also being pirated. An annoying gauge, but another method of measurement. Yes I will probably subscribe..when is the question…
My take: I’m happy to have Star Trek back in my life. At heart, I like Star Trek over Star Wars because it’s a journey versus a war. (Which is life; the struggle – the episodic feel.) Star Trek also came first. It also comparing two mediums: network television versus movies (but SW has an animated series with Clone Wars and probably another I haven’t seen).
(Thankfully other reviews are in and we are more or less in agreement) After Discovery’s first episode I feel like this is the ST Universe way of getting more fans because of the sweeping movie feel. The Orville is lighter (it’s Seth McFarlane) with the humor and pop culture references. But has serious tones (Alien crewmen single sex pair with a child..) This feels like a nice balance, in terms of understanding this world. ST has always been cerebral to me (My favorites being Picard, Janeway and Sisko) because it was always about tolerance of other cultures, humanitarian efforts and serving as a moderator. ST was also more “submarine warfare” than sweeping battles. (Maybe it takes two iterations of Star Trek to be understood to non-fans?) Will Riker AKA Jonathan Frakes aka Number 1 of ST:NG gave his seal of approval, so this generation of Star Trek is in good hands I think.
Lighter Orville balances out the more serious Discovery I think. And I applaud.
Beam me up!
Easter eggs found in The Orville”:http://screenrant.com/orville-tv-show-star-trek-easter-eggs/
Easter eggs found in Star Trek: Discovery:http://screenrant.com/orville-tv-show-star-trek-easter-eggs/
Honest Trailers trip down memory lane with Star Trek The Next Generation:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-6Zc8Co2H3w
Alright, nerds, thank you for getting this far in my post (that was a circle or two). Hope you enjoyed reading my.02


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Vacaville Art Gallery is hosting “Pop Up Art Show” Aug. 18-19 with local artists Christy Dougherty, Clara Podger and Mary Reische.
Explore and immerse yourself in a delightful and diverse collection of artwork created by award-winning artists Christy Dougherty, Clara Podger and Mary Reische. Whether you’re looking for the traditional or abstract, this pop up show has something for everyone. It’s a free community event and perfect for all ages.
Visit the art show from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug.18-19, at the “Annex” (behind the Gallery), 718 E. Monte Vista Ave., Vacaville.


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Men's golf: Cobbers in seventh after Sunday's second round of Twin Cities Classic
Concordia has three golfers in the top 25 heading into Monday's final round of the 18-team tournament.
RAMSEY, Minn. — Concordia is in seventh place heading into Monday's third and final round of the Gustavus Twin Cities Classic.
The Cobbers shot 319 on Sunday at The Links at Northfork and their two-round 623 is three shots back of Luther and Gustavus, which are tied for fifth. St. John's is well clear of the field at 585, 26 shots ahead of second-place Augsburg, 29 shots ahead of third-place University of Manitoba and 30 shots ahead of fourth-place Carleton.
The Cobbers' Gabe Benson shot 78 on Sunday and is tied with two other golfers for 16th at 153. Teammate Justin Lamp is tied for 23rd at 155 and Landon Olson is tied for 25th at 156. St. John's teammates Sam Berger and Blake Schuler are tied for the lead at 1-under 143.
The Classic's third and final round tees off at 11 a.m. Monday, Sept. 26, at the Edina Country Club.

domain: sports


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Be In The Know
BOLD. BREATHTAKING. VISIONARY. Introducing KSquare Condos. Two soaring towers rising above a multi-story podium in the heart of Scarborough. Wavy bands of glass and steel making a distinct architectural statement. A cool urban streetscape animated by retail and public space. A wide range of modern suite designs plus a fine roster of lifestyle amenities. This is the new benchmark of city living.


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Aldo, the main character of Sword of Elpisia, starts out cold and obstinate but quickly warms up to Alice, a lonely young girl who just wants to live a normal life. Aldo works as a repairman, but instead of fixing things around the house, he specializes in Magitools, such as the swords known as Magiswords, that a mysterious force is changing humans into.
You probably already know where this is headed, and you’ll be right: Aldo will use and improve Alice’s transformation into a Magisword to turn her into the fabled Sword of Elpisia. Meeting new enemies and allies is interesting, especially when you team up with a warrior named Ariel, who is seeking redemption, and a carefree drifter named Nate, who is attempting to resurrect his lover, who has become a Magisword. Of course, some people want the Magiswords for sinister reasons. Undoubtedly, the cast is fascinating and diverse.
Fortunately, the character art is excellent, and the same can be said for the sprites, which are animated from 8 different angles and come to life while you’re dashing around. They also look fantastic in combat, with weapons corresponding to what they are currently wearing and gratifying motions for assaulting foes.
Despite all of this, most of the dungeons have dull overall textures and palettes that wear out quickly, however, the battle scenes seem much more stunning. False walls that are readily apparent serve as the primary standout feature in the dungeons that stimulate exploration.
The battle system in Sword of Elpisia is straightforward and understandable, but there are a few additions that make battles unexpectedly fun. You can start by casting a number of MP-demanding spells as well as AP-using skills that require a turn to charge.
All of that is very straightforward, but when you add summonable dogs that are utterly cute and attack your enemies while giving you bonuses, you have a formula that is incredibly enjoyable. In addition, Alice may occasionally rush in at random to heal or boost your party, which is adorable, and her triumph animation is the cherry on top. The overall result is a fun battle system.
Sword of Elpisia keeps things straightforward when it comes to party setup since you only really need to optimize your gear and occasionally equip new pets if you so choose. It usually takes two steps to optimize your weapons and armor: first, you equip the best gear, and second, you combine all surplus equipment pieces to improve them. This process can be quite rewarding, especially when you level up a competent sword to +78 or something to give it a significant increase in attack power.


Digital out-of-home provider, VMO, has just unveiled a large format digital outdoor billboard directly facing busy Surfers Paradise Boulevard. Significantly, it’s Australia’s first ‘smart’ outdoor screen – the only outdoor screen embedded with AMD (Audience Measurement Device) technology.
AMD technology is used to measure audience engagement via VMO’s exclusive real-time audience measurement system DART (Digital-Outdoor Audience in Real Time).
VMO managing director Anthony Deeble said, “The Chevron site is now home to Australia’s very first smart outdoor screen. In the first instance DART technology will be used to capture real- time audience insights – delivering real-time accountability for roadside clients.
“We are changing the roadside experience. VMO is testing Vehicle Recognition Technology (VRT). This technology will give us the capacity to recognise the make, model and year of oncoming vehicles – leading to an enormous opportunity for advertisers.”
It’s a clear point of difference for VMO over their competition. For the very first time, advertisers in this space will have access to real-time audience data – marking a shift away from historical data in outdoor.”
Deeble added, “This is the new era of outdoor screens. And we are making it happen now. Soon, historical data will no longer be acceptable for large format outdoor.”
Designed for maximum impact, the new screen is a staggering 24 square metres (6m wide x 4m high). Strategically placed on the façade of the Chevron Renaissance Shopping Centre, the site will anonymously measure live pedestrian traffic and use facial recognition to detect people in vehicles.
“We’re incredibly excited about the new opportunity this site and others like it will bring. This innovation is testament to our focus on continually growing our market- leading digital portfolio giving our clients the best and biggest opportunities to reach their audience,” Deeble said.
The VMO shop portfolio has increased to 410 locations reaching a fortnightly cumulative audience of over 50 million people. The network now includes 62 premium large format screens across the country.
Jacqueline Gonzales [featured image] is the Head of Global Marketing at Squarespace. In this piece, she shares her best pieces of advice for launching a campaign globally. It’s estimated that we see between 6,000 to 10,000 ads every single day. In today’s digital landscape we’re constantly bombarded by so many different brand messages from every […]
From the audio producer of The Teacher’s Pet comes The Elements, a new Acast Creator Network podcast hosted by Thredbo survivor Stuart Diver. The Elements is a podcast that journeys into the heart of surviving a natural disaster and will be hosted and distributed by the creator-first podcast company Acast as part of the Acast Creator […]