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Stories of impact 2020: Empowering
RISE expands in Umeå
Umeå’s name as an international innovation hotspot is also generating a growing interest within Sweden. In connection with Umeå’s designation as European Capital of Innovation Runner-Up in 2018, RISE, the government-owned Swedish research institute set up a dedicated expansion plan in Umeå, with about 100 new researchers and employees. RISE will expand from the already existing RISE facilities at The Pink and Scharinska villan, a hub for design-driven societal change set up by the national research institute in cooperation with business, academia, and societal stakeholders.
The bus stop –“A Station of Being” – is the result of a collaboration between the City of Umeå, RISE and Umeå Intitute of Design. It is a new, experimental bus station for the Arctic Region. The station transforms the uncomfortable experience of waiting into a transitional experience: a moment to ’just be’ and ‘change your state of being’– before heading for a new place and new activities. The first prototype of the bus stop was inaugurated on 2 October 2019 during the EU Arctic Forum in Umeå, Sweden.
Listen – empowering the city
Umeå has the world’s first publicly commissioned statue dedicated to the MeToo-movement. The artwork is entitled “Listen” and claims its place high above the main square in the city centre, in front the old city hall. It was officially inaugurated in November 2019, marking two years since the start of the MeToo movement. The artwork was created by artist Camilla Akraka and is 4.3 meters high, consisting of a red-coloured cougar with powerful muscles and a golden mouth, open in a roar - a manifestation dedicated to those who together broke the silence. An example of Umeå’s long-term work on gender equality and a part of Sweden’s first women’s history museum situated in Umeå.
Social capital as a resource for the planning of a socially sustainable city
In a 2020 study by Umeå University, a survey distributed to 4% of the city’s inhabitants examines the social capital in the city’s neighbourhoods. The study follows up on a previous 2006 survey, allowing a unique insight in the development of social capital over time on a neighbourhood level, something that has not been done in this way anywhere else. Results show an overall increase of social capital between 2006 and 2020. Four neighbourhoods were selected for case studies, where the social capital has increased, decreased, and remained, in order to identify the impact of different efforts and initiatives by the municipality. The research is carried out in close collaboration with the municipality in order to use the results in strategic development and urban planning for a socially sustainable city.
Umeå, one of four cities in major European networks
Umeå is a Leader in EU Regional Innovation Scoreboard
Umeå has developed a local set of indicators, to connect the EU Regional Innovation Scoreboard to the local context. This is essential as intra-regional divides on innovation capacity are a potential concern across Europe, between cities, as well as between city and countryside, within EU NUTS 2 regions.
Population growth Umeå, 1810–2020
Umeå is fast growing and has doubled its population in 50 years. The city has historically developed methods and processes to harness creativity and innovation as a regional centre of education.


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Welcome to the world of Creative Arts Projects for Homeschooled Students! At Kienhoc, we understand the importance of providing engaging and enriching activities that foster creativity and self-expression. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore various creative arts projects designed specifically for homeschooled students. From painting and drawing to sculpting and crafts, these projects offer a unique way to nurture your child’s imagination and critical thinking skills. Join us as we embark on a journey of exploration, discovery, and celebration of your child’s artistic talents.
|Why Choose Creative Arts Projects for Homeschooled Students?
|– Develop creativity and self-expression
|Benefits of Creative Arts Projects for Homeschooled Students
|– Foster critical thinking skills
|Getting Started with Creative Arts Projects at Home
|– Gather materials and resources
|Exploring Different Types of Creative Arts Projects
|– Painting and drawing
|Incorporating Creative Arts Projects into Homeschool Curriculum
|– Tie projects into core subjects
|Showcasing and Celebrating Creative Arts Projects
|– Organize an art show or exhibition
I. Why Choose Creative Arts Projects for Homeschooled Students?
1.1 Fosters Creativity and Self-Expression
One of the key reasons to choose creative arts projects for homeschooled students is that they foster creativity and self-expression. Through engaging in various art forms such as painting, drawing, and sculpting, children have the opportunity to explore their imagination and develop their unique artistic voice. They can express their thoughts, emotions, and ideas in a visual and tangible way, helping them develop a sense of identity and self-confidence.
1.2 Develops Critical Thinking Skills
Creative arts projects also play a crucial role in developing critical thinking skills. When children engage in art activities, they are encouraged to think creatively, problem-solve, and make decisions. They learn to analyze and interpret visual information, think outside the box, and experiment with different techniques and materials. This enhances their ability to think critically, adapt to new situations, and come up with innovative solutions.
1.3 Encourages Emotional Well-being
Engaging in creative arts projects can have a positive impact on the emotional well-being of homeschooled students. Artistic activities provide a safe and non-judgmental space for children to express their emotions, process their experiences, and find solace and relaxation. Creating art can be therapeutic, helping children manage stress, anxiety, and other emotional challenges they may face. It allows them to explore their inner world and communicate their feelings in a constructive and cathartic way.
1.4 Enhances Fine Motor Skills and Coordination
Participating in creative arts projects also supports the development of fine motor skills and coordination in homeschooled students. Engaging in activities such as drawing, painting, and crafting requires precise hand-eye coordination, finger dexterity, and manipulation of tools and materials. These skills are essential for various everyday tasks and future academic pursuits.
II. Benefits of Creative Arts Projects for Homeschooled Students
1. Foster Self-Expression and Creativity
Engaging in creative arts projects allows homeschooled students to express themselves freely and tap into their creativity. Through activities like painting, drawing, and crafting, they can explore their imagination and develop their unique artistic voice. By encouraging self-expression, these projects help students build confidence and a sense of identity.
Related post Explore a variety of creative arts projects that can foster self-expression and creativity for homeschooled students.
2. Enhance Critical Thinking Skills
Creative arts projects provide opportunities for homeschooled students to problem-solve and think critically. For example, when planning a sculpture or composing a piece of music, students need to consider various elements such as form, structure, and aesthetics. These projects encourage analytical thinking, strategic decision-making, and the ability to evaluate and revise their work.
Related post Discover how creative arts projects can complement physical education and enhance critical thinking skills for homeschooled students.
3. Emotional and Cognitive Development
Engagement in creative arts projects can have a positive impact on the emotional and cognitive development of homeschooled students. Artistic activities provide an outlet for emotional expression, allowing students to process and communicate their feelings. This can contribute to improved emotional well-being and resilience. Additionally, creating artwork stimulates cognitive functions such as problem-solving, memory, and spatial awareness.
Related post Learn more about the relationship between homeschooling and mental health and how creative arts projects can support emotional development.
III. Getting Started with Creative Arts Projects at Home
3.1 Gather Materials and Resources
Before diving into creative arts projects, it is essential to gather the necessary materials and resources. Having a well-stocked art supply will allow your child to explore different mediums and experiment with their creativity. Consider investing in basic art supplies like paints, brushes, crayons, markers, sketchbooks, and various types of paper. Additionally, gather materials specific to the type of project your child wishes to undertake. For example, if they want to try sculpting, you might need clay or modeling dough. By having the right materials on hand, you can ensure that your child has everything they need to unleash their artistic expression.
3.2 Create a Dedicated Art Space
Having a dedicated art space at home provides your child with a designated area to immerse themselves in creative arts projects. Set up a corner or a room where they can store their art supplies and work on their creations without distractions. Ensure that the space is well-lit and organized, making it easy for your child to access their materials and work comfortably. Having a dedicated art space also allows them to leave their projects out without the fear of them getting damaged or disrupted. By creating a special place for art, you are encouraging your child’s creativity to flourish.
3.3 Encourage Exploration and Experimentation
When getting started with creative arts projects, it’s important to encourage your child to explore and experiment with different techniques, styles, and mediums. Let them try various painting techniques, mix colors, and experiment with different textures. Encourage them to express their ideas and emotions through their artwork, giving them the freedom to explore and create without fear of judgment. By nurturing their curiosity and encouraging experimentation, you are fostering their artistic growth and helping them develop their unique artistic voice.
IV. Exploring Different Types of Creative Arts Projects
Painting and Drawing
Painting and drawing are classic forms of creative expression that allow homeschooled students to explore their artistic abilities. Through these mediums, children can experiment with different painting techniques, create beautiful illustrations, and develop an understanding of color theory. They can learn to use various tools such as brushes, pencils, or even digital software to bring their imagination to life on a canvas or paper.
Encourage your child to start with simple projects like still life drawings or landscapes before moving on to more complex subjects. They can also experiment with different painting styles like watercolor, acrylics, or oil paints. Whether it’s creating vibrant abstract art or capturing the beauty of nature through realistic portraits, painting and drawing provide endless opportunities for self-expression.
Sculpture and Crafts
If your child enjoys working with their hands and exploring three-dimensional art forms, sculpture and crafts are perfect avenues for their creativity. Sculpting allows them to transform ordinary materials like clay, playdough, or wire into unique sculptures. They can mold characters from their favorite books or create abstract sculptures that convey emotions.
Craft projects offer a wide range of possibilities such as papercrafts, origami, fabric art, jewelry making, or even woodworking. These projects enhance fine motor skills while allowing your child’s imagination to take center stage. Encourage them to explore different mediums and techniques based on their interests.
Creative Writing and Poetry
The world of creative arts extends beyond visual mediums; it also includes writing as a powerful form of expression. Creative writing nurtures storytelling skills while fostering imagination and language development in homeschooled students.
Encourage your child to engage in imaginative writing exercises, such as storytelling or writing their own short stories. They can explore different genres like fantasy, mystery, or science fiction. Poetry is another avenue for self-expression, enabling them to experiment with rhythm, rhyme, and imagery.
V. Incorporating Creative Arts Projects into Homeschool Curriculum
1. Tie projects into core subjects
One effective way to incorporate creative arts projects into your homeschool curriculum is by linking them to core subjects. For example, when studying history, your child can create a painting or a sculpture depicting a particular event or historical figure. This not only enhances their understanding of the subject but also allows them to express their knowledge through artistic means. Similarly, in science, they can engage in hands-on art projects related to the topic they are studying, such as creating models or drawings of scientific concepts. By integrating creative arts into core subjects, you provide a well-rounded and engaging learning experience.
When learning about the solar system, your child can paint an accurate representation of the planets and their orbits, allowing them to visually comprehend the scale and structure of our celestial neighbors.
2. Collaborate with other subjects
Another way to incorporate creative arts projects is by collaborating with other subjects. For instance, your child can create a multimedia presentation that combines their artwork with a written or oral presentation for language arts. In math, they can use art to explore patterns, symmetry, and geometric shapes. By blending creativity with different subjects, you not only make learning more enjoyable but also encourage interdisciplinary thinking and problem-solving skills.
For a literature unit, your child can create a visual representation of scenes from a novel they have read, bringing the story to life through their artwork while demonstrating their comprehension of the plot and characters.
VI. Showcasing and Celebrating Creative Arts Projects
1. Organize an Art Show
One of the best ways to showcase and celebrate your child’s creative arts projects is by organizing an art show. This allows your child to display their artwork to an audience, whether it’s friends and family or a wider community. Rent a space, such as a local gallery or community center, where your child’s artwork can be exhibited. Create a visually appealing display, with proper lighting and signage for each piece. Invite guests to attend the art show and encourage them to provide feedback and support to your child. This event not only celebrates your child’s artistic achievements but also helps boost their confidence and provides them with a sense of pride in their work.
2. Create an Online Portfolio
In today’s digital age, creating an online portfolio for your child’s creative arts projects is a great way to showcase their work to a wider audience. You can create a dedicated website or use online platforms specifically designed for artists to showcase their artwork. Include high-quality photographs or scans of your child’s artwork, along with descriptions and titles. Provide a brief artist statement to give viewers insight into your child’s artistic process and inspiration. Share the online portfolio with friends, family, and even potential art buyers. This online presence can open up opportunities for your child, such as commissions or collaborations, and allows them to connect with the larger art community.
Engaging in creative arts projects can be a highly beneficial and enriching experience for homeschooled students. Not only do these projects allow them to explore their creativity and develop self-expression, but they also foster critical thinking skills, enhance problem-solving abilities, and provide a platform for personal growth. By incorporating creative arts projects into your homeschool curriculum, you can seamlessly integrate art and creativity into core subjects, making learning more enjoyable and interactive. Moreover, showcasing and celebrating your child’s artwork not only boosts their confidence but also creates a sense of accomplishment and pride. So why wait? Dive into the world of creative arts projects and unleash your child’s imagination!

domain: artistic


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While smartphone makers are testing Android 12 with all their might, Google today unexpectedly announced a new version of the operating system - Android 12L.
What is it?
More specifically, the company is positioning it not as a new version, but as "a special feature that makes Android 12 even better on larger screens". That is the platform is designed for tablets, foldable devices and laptops with Chrome OS - in general, gadgets with large screens. It's also suitable for regular smartphones, but since you really won't see many new features there, the focus is now on other devices. However, beta registration for Pixel devices will be launched later in preview.
So, the OS introduces additional multitasking tools and optimized user interface. By default, Android 12L should also improve the appearance of apps on devices with large screen.
in particular, Google has improved the way notifications, quick settings, lock screen, overview and home screen are displayed on larger screens. System apps on Android 12L have also been optimized.
In addition, the new taskbar now looks a bit like iPadOS. It's simplified access to split screen mode - just drag the icon from the taskbar to the screen to bring it up. This also means that every app on Android now supports split screen mode.
A developer preview version of Android 12L is now available. A release is planned for early next year.

domain: news


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Phone: 08024539410 | BBM: 5921A4A5
Ghanaian highlife singer Bisa Kdei finally releases the official video to a single off his Highlife Konnect album that dropped earlier this year. The song is titled “Pocket”, and it features superstar rapper Sarkodie. The video was directed by Yaw Skyface. Check out the visuals, and cop the tune below.


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What changes can we expect to see in the world of tea in 2020, especially after Coronavirus outbreak?
Coronavirus has been a devastating global problem for months. How will it affect the tea industry? Though the virus will not affect tea plants directly, it is foreseeable to have a negative impact on the workforce. There is also a possibility that tea-producing regions might be quarantined or ports closed. Both demand and supply may decrease consequently.
Drinkers of orthodox black tea and green tea are getting older and consuming less. Tea drinking to address specific health concerns (like diet, stress, depression, blood pressure, etc.) will continue to grow in 2020. Many tea producers have been offering functional teas to catch up with this trend.
While Orthodox tea and coffee markets have fallen recently, we can scent the continued rise of fruit, herbal, and spice teas. Consumer taste has become sophisticated, people expect better flavor and quality with health benefits than in the past.
So-called fruit, herbal, and spice tea may be confused by many people. Many tea companies already developed various teas with fruit flavors, herbs, or spices in convenient tea bag types.
It can be a beverage made from a combination of fresh or dried fruits, herbs, and spices. This drink is entirely caffeine-free and can be self-made at home as well.
It can also refer to the combination of tea (made from the leaves of the tea plant Camellia Sinensis) with a fresh slices or dried pieces of fruits, herbs, and spices.
The great thing with fruit, herbal and spice tea is that they are not overly sweet, low caffeine and still have all the benefits which can be found in the raw form of the fruit, herb or spice used. Choosing a good tea to suit your taste can be a positive experience as you get to try and test out many types of teas and familiarize yourself with the taste and aroma of each. When searching for the perfect tea, it is important to consider not only taste but the health benefits you are looking for. And it is not only a drink, it can be used in many other ways, for example being added to cooking such as smoothies, desserts and ice cream.
Future Generation Co. Ltd have researched market trends and developed RTD tea with concentrate and extract of tea, fruits, herbs and spices packed in paper box with UHT technology. These products not only have smooth taste, good for health, environmentally friendly but also very convenient.
Our Cozy tea can be found in supermarkets, grocery stores and online shop throughout Vietnam.
– Gina –

domain: food


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You must realise that you may invest in a number of stock market products in order to take the proper steps toward becoming a seasoned investor. Shares, derivatives, mutual funds, and bonds are examples of these. The stock/equity market, for example, has roughly 18 million investors. In India, stocks or equities account for about 12.9 percent of total investments.
What are shares and how they differ from stocks?
When a company needs money to develop its business or meet operational needs, it has two options: borrow money or issue stocks that give investors a piece of the firm. The lowest denomination of a company’s stock is a share, which represents a percentage of the company’s ownership.
The capital of a firm is broken down into small, equal pieces of a finite number. A share is the name given to each unit. A share is a proportion of ownership in a corporation or a financial asset in basic words. Shareholders are individuals who possess shares in a corporation.
For instance, if a company’s market capitalization is Rs 10 lakh and each share is valued at Rs 10, the total number of shares to be issued is 1 lakh.
TYPES OF SHARES
There are two types of shares: equity and preferential. Both have sub-categories of their own. If you’re ready to begin your stock market investment adventure, you need to know the basics. Let’s understand the different sorts of shares.
This sort of share, as the name implies, provides certain preferred privileges over other types of shares. The following are the key advantages that preference shareholders enjoy:
- They are given first priority when it comes to receiving dividends, which represent a portion of the company’s profits.
- Preference shareholders have first claim to remuneration if the firm goes bankrupt.
- In addition, preference shares are divided into three categories:
- Cumulative Preference Shares
Before any dividend is paid to equity owners, cumulative stockholders have the right to obtain dividend arrears. For example, if dividends on preference shares were not paid in 2017 and 2018 owing to market downturns, preferred owners are entitled to dividends for all previous years in addition to the current one.
- Non-Cumulative Preference shares
Any outstanding dividends are not available to non-cumulative stockholders. Only when the firm makes a profit do these stockholders receive a dividend. For the previous years, no dividends were given.
- Convertible preference shares
These shares are convertible, as the name implies. Convertible shareholders have the option to convert their preference shares into equity shares at a later date. The conversion of shares, however, will need to be approved by the company’s Articles of Association (AoA).
These are also known as common shares, and they make up the majority of the shares issued by a firm. Equity shares are transferrable and frequently exchanged on stock exchanges by investors. You have the right to receive dividends as an equity shareholder, in addition to voting rights on corporate matters. Dividends, on the other hand, are not fixed and are paid out of the company’s profits. After preference shareholders, equity stockholders get dividends. You should also keep in mind that, due to market volatility and other variables impacting stock markets, equity stockholders are exposed to the most risk as a percentage of their investment.
SHARES OF DIFFERENTIAL VOTING RIGHTS (DVR)
When compared to stock owners, DVR shareholders have less voting rights. Companies pay additional dividends to DVR shareholders to decrease voting rights. DVR shares are less expensive because they have fewer voting rights. The price difference between stock and DVR shares is around 30-40%.
WHY DOES A BUSINESS ISSUE SHARE?
Companies offer stocks (piece of their company) to investors for raising capital to run the business. This helps their company to grow and survive in the competitive market. They also provide investors a piece of the company’s profits.
Investing in stocks yields higher returns than other investment alternatives, and it may help them to multiply their wealth over time.
NOTE: Always remember to open your Demat and trading accounts with a reputable and trustworthy financial partner. Rely on a brokerage firm that can offer cutting-edge trading platforms as well as real-time market data.

domain: finance


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Oct 29, 2021
The Dia de Los Muertos Community Altar project is up now at
Overture Center -- a way to appreciate Latino culture without
appropriating. Plus, COVID stats continue to improve.
From Madison365, all the news you need to start your day, in only 10 minutes. Or so.
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Alejandro Escovedo (born January 10, 1951, in San Antonio, Texas) is a Mexican-American singer-songwriter.Escovedo's family tree includes former Santana percussionist Pete Escovedo and Pete's daughter, Sheila E (also Prince's former drummer and later a pop star).
He began his music career with the Nuns, a mid-'70s punk band based in San Francisco. He co-founded the pioneering cowpunk band Rank and File in 1979, which moved to Austin, Texas, in 1981 after a stint in New York City.
The band released Sundown on Slash Records in 1982, but shortly after, Escovedo left to form the True Believers with brother Javier. The band recorded two albums for EMI and toured the country, often as an opening act for Los Lobos.
However, EMI opted not to release the second album, which eventually led to the group's break-up. (It eventually surfaced as a bonus item when Rykodisc reissued the first set on CD in 1994.) Escovedo released a solo album in 1992 on Watermelon Records, Gravity, uniting his wide variety of styles; the album was produced by Stephen Bruton of Bonnie Raitt's band.
Escovedo also began gigging periodically with the band Buick MacKane, who fused old-school punk with 70's glam rock; after Rykodisc released Escovedo's With These Hands in 1996, they followed it up with Buick MacKane's long-awaited album.
After Escovedo parted ways with Rykodisc, he signed with the Chicago-based alt-country label Bloodshot in 1998, who released the live album More Miles Than Money: Live 1994-1996 and the acclaimed studio set A Man Under The Influence.
In April of 2003, Escovedo collapsed following a show in Phoenix, AZ, and he was subsequently diagnosed with Hepatitis C. An outpouring of support from musicians led to a series of successful benefit concerts to help pay Escovedo's medical expenses and keep his music before the public, followed by a tribute album, Por Vida: A Tribute to the Songs of Alejandro Escovedo, which was released in 2004.
In June 2010, Escovedo released Street Songs of Love.
This website is a resource for event professionals and strives to provide the most comprehensive catalog of popular musicians and bands to consider for performances at corporate events, fundraising galas, or university events. A listing or profile on this website does not imply an agency affiliation or endorsement by the talent.
All American Entertainment (AAE) exclusively represents the interests of talent buyers, and does not claim to be the agency or management for any artist or celebrity on this site. AAE Music is a talent booking agency for paid events only. We do not handle requests for donation of time or media requests for interviews, and cannot provide celebrity contact information.
If you are the talent, and wish to request removal from this catalog or report an issue with your profile, please click here.


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Other Landscapes: Colonialism and the Predicament of Authority in Nineteenth-Century South India
Nordic Council of Ministers, NIAS - Nordic Institute of Asian Studies2009 (English)Book (Refereed)
Due to the inhospitable climate and vastness of the native population, European settlement of India was never seriously considered apart from in selected upland areas with cooler climates and sparse native populations.
One such area was the Nilgiri Hills of South India which, from the early 19th century, saw concerted efforts at European colonization and displacement of the local population as well as an attempt to visualize and recreate an English landscape in the area.
Other Landscapes investigates the interfaces between indigenes, European settlers and the colonial state on the Nilgiri Hills, focusing on land disputes, regulation of land sales, regimes of forest management and ethnographic projects of cultural ‘preservation’. It examines the landscape as it was configured in the Imperial imagination, explores the corruption and manipulation of local administration and argues that rarely, if ever, did official intent correspond to the systems of reform, regulation and invigilation imposed over the local agrarian landscape.
Place, publisher, year, edition, pages
Copenhagen: NIAS Press, 2009. , 272 p.
, NIAS Monographs, 111
Colonialism, India, land disputes, forest management
History and Archaeology
IdentifiersURN: urn:nbn:se:norden:org:diva-4147ISBN: 978 87 7694 027 0OAI: oai:DiVA.org:norden-4147DiVA: diva2:858571

domain: history


Meierling showed an all-aluminum half-pipe dump body at the IAA, and also a small mock-up of a bi-metal dump body they will produce in the spring of 2003. It will have aluminum sides and a steel floor of Hardox. It will be all-welded construction using bi-metal strips between the steel and aluminum. The weight will be 700 kg (1,540 lb) more than the all-aluminum body on display, and the cost will be $3,500 more. Weight of the three-axle half-round on display including tarpaulin — 4,500 kg (9,900 lb). Meierling GmbH & Co KG, Profilstrasse 13, D-58093 Hagen, Germany.


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22563 N Bowman Ave Ste 1Danville, IL 61834
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domain: geography


North Korea on Wednesday fired multiple cruise missiles into the sea in its fifth test of such weapons since January, South Korea’s military said, extending a streak in weapons demonstrations that are elevating tensions in the region. South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff said the South Korean and US militaries were analysing the launches from an area on North Korea’s northeastern coast. The South Korean military didn’t immediately provide the exact numbers of missiles fired or how war they flew.
Experts say North Korea is ramping up pressure on its rivals in an election year in South Korea and the US, with a long-term focus on forcing Washington to accept the idea of the North as a nuclear power and extract security and economic concessions from a position of strength.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has also been issuing belligerent statements toward South Korea, including a declaration that he would abandon the North’s long-term objective of reconciliation with its war-divided rival and threatening to annihilate the South with nukes if provoked.
Cruise missiles, which are designed to be highly manoeuvrable in flight like small airplanes, are among a growing number of weapons North Korea is developing to overwhelm missile defences, supplementing the country’s vast number of ballistic missiles designed to be fired from land and sea.
The latest launches were North Korea’s sixth missile-launch event this year, including a January 14 test of the country’s first solid-fuel intermediate range missile, which demonstrated its efforts to advance its weaponry targeting remote US targets in the Pacific, including the military hub of Guam.
The North earlier this year tested new cruise missiles designed to be fired from submarines and also long-range cruise missiles with potential range of reaching US military bases in Japan. The US, South Korea and Japan have been strengthening their combined military exercises and sharpening their nuclear deterrence strategies to cope with the North’s evolving threats.


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The lights are on
Veteran Member - Level 13
Over the last few weeks I have found myself slightly embarrassed to be a video game fan, due more or less entirely to the controversy surrounding Mass Effect 3. First, entitled fans began demanding that the ending of Mass Effect 3 be changed. If Roger Ebert had found out about that, (he didn’t, did he?) he would have had a field day at the expense of our favorite medium of storytelling. I can just imagine his blog explaining why demanding the ending be changed for what is considered to be one of gaming’s most interesting narratives, proves that video games are just a consumer product and not a creative means to tell a story. And I would be compelled to agree with him.
Second, was the poll run by Consumerist, where Electronic Arts won the honor of being considered the worst company in America. The gamers mentioned above rallied to deliver a message to the Internet saying that they think a company that makes video games is worse than a debatably corrupt bank. A company that make those super fun things we’re all obsessed with, is worse than a bank that has the legal right to remove you from your home. Great job guys. You really showed them. We gamers clearly have our priorities in order.
I was feeling disheartened, but then I started playing Journey.
I played through the game in one beautiful sitting, but the thing that restored my faith in gamers, was during the second playthrough that I began immediately after finishing my first.
The following contains Journey spoilers, so tread lightly.
I was re-exploring the tower area that leads into the snowy mountain with another player. I was trying to grab a few of the Trophies I missed on the first run through, one of which was to meditate with another player for 20 seconds. I sat on the ground, they stood next to me for a moment, and then they sat down next to me while we quietly waited for the Trophy to pop. I think they may have known what I was trying to do, and I was appreciative of their silent help.
We continued moving up the tower, activating the magical sand that allows you to swim through the air. We made it all the way to the top, when my mysterious partner started sending out their alert to grab my attention. He waited until I walked up to him, and he jumped into the floating sand. I decided to join him. We dropped for what felt like two or three minutes when they started to head towards a seemingly random section of the tower. I followed, and contained inside was one of the creatures from thatgamecompany’s previous title, Flow. I got the sense that this stranger just wanted show me something cool, which is exactly what they did. There was no benefit for them. There is a Trophy for uncovering the, “mysterious creature,” as it is coined in the game, but they didn’t need me there to get it. And if they knew exactly where it was, I would guess that they already had the Trophy.
The whole experience, in an odd way, restored my faith in fans of video games. I’m still embarrassed by the gamers out there fighting the wrong fight against the psychosomatic tyranny of Electronic Arts and Bioware and their awesome game, but my experience in Journey reminded me that the Mass Effect 3 ending fighters make up a small percentage of the gaming culture, and that the majority of gamers are just awesome people who want to show me cool hidden stuff in games like Journey.
Email the author Kyle Hilliard, or follow on Twitter, Google+, Facebook, and Game Informer.
Journey was beautiful. I played with the same person throughout the whole thing, and it was one of the best experiences I've ever had. Amazing game.
Journey looks awesome. Definitely need to play it.
You gotta take pleasure in the little things.
I wish these sweet little things could overcome the foul bigger things. No one outside of our social group will be looking at the whole Journey thing. They'll just be looking at how spoiled we appear to be. Great blog though Kyle.
Journey was, is, a game I won't soon forget. The day that preceded, the actual experience I had on my play-through... the sights and sounds, home theater cranked to deliver it as intended. Similarly, I had a smile on my face as I thought about how such a simplistic game mechanic had me and my partner working so closely together.
I struggle to think of the best words to describe Journey, as a game or otherwise... it really was just a beautiful journey.
My girlfriend played through Journey and it was miraculous to witness her interactions with some of the other players. She is not much of a gamer so she was having some trouble with simple platforming actions. I was personally getting a little frustrated just watching her but the people playing the game with her were surprisingly patient. They sat still waiting for her to land a simple jump and often worked hard to demonstrate the actions to her and show her how to play. It was amazing.

domain: game


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September 11, 2010
Gallagher's goal leads Indians over Mount Olive 1-0
MOUNT OLIVE, NC – The Catawba men’s soccer team defeated the Mount Olive Trojans, 1-0, Saturday night as Indian sophomore Matt Gallagher (Chapel Hill, NC/Chapel Hill HS/Saint Leo) scored the game’s lone goal. With the win the Indians advance to 3-1 and Mount Olive falls to 1-2-1.
Gallagher’s goal, his second of the season, came in the 38th minute off a cross from teammate Corey Faughnan (Jacksonville, NC/ Jacksonville HS). The game proved to be physical as both teams combined to record 25 fouls, and each team picked up two yellow cards. Indian freshman goalie, Luke McCarthy (Naples, FL/Naples), was strong for the Tribe by recording his first career shutout. The Trojan’s Brad Newman entered the game as the second half goal keeper, recording three of the team’s four saves.
Catawba will return to action on Tuesday, September 14th, as they host Francis Marion at Frock Field.
|No events are scheduled today|


WASHINGTON -- Don't worry, the strange object seen just outside the nation's capital Wednesday night wasn't a UFO. It was a drone.
A strangely-shaped saucer-like aircraft was seen in D.C.'s Maryland suburbs around 11 p.m., causing traffic backups and speculation about government coverups. Photos, like like this one widely circulated on Twitter, show the mysterious object being driven along the Capitol Beltway near College Park on the back of a truck.
Officials identified the flying machine to WTOP:
Maryland State Police at the McHenry Barrack have confirmed the aircraft seen on the Beltway was a military airplane being moved from West Virginia to Naval Air Station Patuxent River in Southern Maryland.
The plane is 82 feet long, 32 feet wide and 14 feet high. The X-46B is the same type of military vehicle that crashed earlier this week near Salisbury, Md.
This time the drone was spotted on the highway. Matt Funk, lead test engineer, told NBC4/WRC-TV that "in the coming months" the drone will be seen "flying over the base and surrounding area along the Chesapeake Bay."
Funk identified the aircraft as a one of Northrop Grumman’s X-47B drones, a type of aircraft often mistaken for a UFO, not an X-46B as was reported by WTOP. And the drone that crashed earlier in the week was Northrop Grumman's RQ-4A BAMS-D, according to media reports.
When asked about the discrepancy in the type of aircraft, a representative from the Maryland State Police told HuffPost that there's "nothing in the paperwork that mentions what type of aircraft it was."
Know your drones -- check out the slideshow below for photos of the mysterious aircraft, the drones it might have been and some Twitter reactions to the Beltway sighting:


MIDTOWN EAST, Manhattan — Police arrested the man accused of harassing an Asian woman on a Manhattan street Tuesday afternoon.
Daniel Negroni, 31, was taken into custody and faces charges of aggravated harassment as a hate crime, police said.
The incident happened at the corner of East 57 Street and First Avenue in Midtown East around 1 p.m.
A 25-year-old woman informed officers she was walking along First Avenue Negroni allegedly muttered something about the coronavirus and said “you don’t belong here” before he attempted to punch her, according to authorities.
No injuries were reported.
According to the NYPD, there have been at least 54 anti-Asian hate crimes reported as of April 11 this year. Six of those incidents were motivated by COVID-19 with an Asian victim, cops said.
At this time last year, there were 12 reported anti-Asian incidents, with 11 of them COVID-19 motivated, police said.
If you or someone you know are experiencing anti-Asian hate, click here for resources.
Anyone who witnesses an incident can also find out more information on bystander intervention by clicking here.


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Rental Property Landlords
In order to accomplish a sustainable and successful property management, every London housing owner or agent should follow a strict and precise policy of how the rental real estate is handled. It’s a fact this year will hold a number of surprises.
1. Rates Will Rise.
Every since the so called “crisis” land owner were enjoying the benefits of low interest values, which has always meant an opportunity for growth. As all things in life, such effects do not last for ever and that’s absolutely normal. The property market has always been a jungle and that will most likely never change. There are people that doubt the rate rise but that does not change the fact that real estate owners should prepare for the possible personal effects they might suffer because of the potential drop. One of the best moves is to shift your mortgage to a fixed rate and therefore secure your material possessions and riches.
2. Property Owners Should Keep Their Eye on Tax
Landlords have been in the HMRC focus lately. The so called “Let Property” Initiative has been called to be a sort of amnesty for all with undeclared housing income. Should we even mention the fact that more aggressive measures will follow all who do not set their taxes right… According to what official statements show us, undeclared housing income is more than half a billion each year! This means that if it was on the record, this incredible amount of wealth could have a direct impact on London’s and England’s economy.. In order to avoid all unnecessary problems, make sure you have everything under account as a proper landlord should. If you have any doubts – hire a third-party professional service provider to help you, the same way our clients benefit independent adjudication.
3. Capital and Asset Insurance
Safety is among the biggest traits to every landlord and his property. Perform a check. In order to be sure of it, double check your policy. If by any chance you statements change, for an example if you acquire any new properties, or if the price of your assets and capital rises – contact your insurance provider.
4. The Tenancy Agreement
Only a well-written housing contract can back up both landlords and tenants properly. A smart tip is to use watertight paper and get at least two copies. Both the real estate owner and property renter have to fully understand each of the clauses. In 2014 the United Kingdom government launched a new kind of a tenancy agreement for assured shorthold tenancies. It is quite useful. It’s a must to check in.
5. Building a Buffer Fund
This rule applies not only for real estate and property inventory owners, but for all. It is always important to build reserve funds. The niche of rental accommodation holds a number of risks and emergencies can struck at any time. No housing is secured of the potential trait of void periods. Unless the landlord has a real deal with his agent, spare capital must always be present in order to cover such situations.
6. Landlords Should Keep in Touch With Tenants on a Regular Basis
Most home owners do such good practices as if they do not really care of their property possession. Renters and property owners often meet at the start of the lease or tenancy and of course at the end of the housing agreement. Even if the real estate owners does not care that much of what his property’s inventory condition is, it is important that accommodation renters know that there’s is someone responsible for their safety and well being. When you let your real estate, you rent more than the house, flat or building. When you have that in mind, make regular contact every here and there. It could be a simple phone call, an email, although those are not the most efficient way a landlord could contact tenants. Building a healthy relation could potentially reduce the chance of unnecessary damage, maintenance and repair costs.
7. Takes Two To Tango
At the end of the day it’s important to realize that the tenancy agreement is an act of uniting both sides, not declaring war. It is in both sides’ interest to maintain and grow a strong and healthy relationship. This is among the most important features, characteristics, quality, name it how ever you want to. Mutual support is the only path for a sustainable tenancy. Remember! There are a number of landlord communities all over the web. Only by being unite and working together the rental property.
The path to successful rental management is of course not an easy task. Every home owner needs to follow a simple landlord checklist of rules and safety alerts in order to ensure the safety and well being of his real estate tenure. Some of them could be easily be outsourced to independent third-party companies, others require the full attention and dedicated will of the land owner or landlady.


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Competition Law360 provides breaking news and analysis on antitrust law. Coverage includes high-stakes antitrust litigation and government enforcement actions, as well as legislative and regulatory developments.
Foreign currency buyers alleging they were charged falsely inflated prices as a result of a massive, ongoing price-fixing conspiracy by the world’s largest banks saw their latest complaint tossed out Friday by a New York federal judge, who said they failed to show how they suffered any antitrust injury.
Cisco Systems Inc. asked a California federal judge Thursday to toss rival Arista Networks Inc.’s antitrust suit alleging it interfered with sales of Ethernet switches, arguing Arista lacks standing to bring the suit because the U.S. International Trade Commission had found that the switches infringe Cisco's patents.
The NCAA asked the Ninth Circuit to deny a $42 million attorneys' fee request in the long-running litigation over rules barring student-athletes from being paid for the use of their names, images and likenesses, arguing Thursday that the win was only partial and doesn’t warrant such a large award.
Evergreen Partnering Group has asked the U.S. Supreme Court to review its lawsuit against Solo Cup, Dart Container and others alleging a conspiracy to muscle Evergreen out of the market, saying there is a circuit split on the evidence needed to beat a summary judgment motion.
Insurance subscribers in multidistrict litigation accusing Blue Cross Blue Shield of a massive price-fixing conspiracy asked an Alabama federal judge to reconsider some of his summary judgment ruling, arguing Thursday that the company’s out-of-state plans don't qualify for antitrust immunity.


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BeeBee keeping (Apiculture) is a livestock subsector with great potential of contributing to Kenyan’s food basket as well as foreign earnings. It is an easy task to venture in as it is cheap, and it also enhances the environment through pollination. However, the type of beehives you have determines the amount of honey you harvest.
Apiculture is good for small-scale farmers and resource humble farmers due to the fact that it’s completely sustainable, has better income and needs less input (just land, some capital and labor)
Nevertheless, traditional beekeeping in Kenya has over years been producing low volumes of honey produced as well as income generated. This is largely due to beekeepers’ ignorance, poor harvesting techniques and use of ‘old school’ type hives. Lack of knowledge and outlets that buy honey exposes beekeepers to exploitation by unscrupulous middlemen and many end up selling their harvest to producers of local liquor for a song.
Types of beehives and their advantages
There are several types all made from cheap and locally available materials such as logs, pots and baskets. However, bee management and honey harvesting is difficult in such hives and usually the quality and quantity of honey is compromised.
During harvesting, combs — including brood combs — are cut off, destroying a generation of bees within a hive’s colony. Such colonies end up spending most of their time and energy (honey) rebuilding combs and replacing brood, thus remaining at a redevelopment phase at the expense of honey production.
Advantages of Traditional beehives
- Inexpensive to make.
- They can be produced locally and require little knowledge of carpentry.
- They can house large amounts of bees.
- They are the best hive if one is looking to get large quantities of wax.
- When occupied, these hives are very hard to steal due to many cracks and openings that bees utilize to protect their colony
Kenya Top Bar Beehives
This hive resembles a wedge box with wooden bars of specific measurements at the wide top part and a roof above the bars. Bee management is possible with this hive, making it easier to harvest and manipulate colonies for more honey production compared to traditional hives.
However, combs in the top bar hive are not supported and can break if not handled carefully. Since wax is harvested with honey, the bees are forced to build more wax to replace harvested combs, which results in lower honey yields albeit with more harvested wax.
In addition, the volume, like in the traditional hive, is fixed, so the hive can fill and get congested very quickly in the honey flow season. An overcrowded hive can divide and swarm, leading to reduced honey production.
Advantages Kenyan Top Bar (KTB) beehives
- Colony splitting and multiplication easy.
- Control of swarming is possible.
- Easy to inspect to know the condition of the colony
- Harvesting is easy and possible to select sealed combed (ripe) honey.
- Materials for construction are available
Langstroth beehive (Frame Hive)
Box shaped with several compartments and frames that make the combs very strong. A mesh (queen excluder) is placed above the lowermost compartment known as the brood chamber allowing only the worker bees (non-laying) to move through.
Since entry to the hive is located at the base of the brood chamber, the queen cannot lay eggs in the compartments above the brood chamber (known as super chambers) thus combs in these chambers will contain honey only.
The honey is extracted by centrifuge, returning the combs relatively intact to the bees to shorten harvesting intervals and potentially increase yield. Combined with the fact that honey is separated completely from the brood, this extraction method ensures high quality honey.
By adding more supers, additional space can be created in the hive, which is important during honey flow period.
Advantages of Langstroth/Dadant Beehives:
- High honey yield.
- Easy to inspect and harvest.
- Easy to control swarming.
- Bee breeding and queen rearing possible.
- Long lasting.
If you are a farmer, either fruit farmer of livestock farmer, having a few beehives won’t hurt you. Honey is considered as one of the best natural medicine for many ailments. Its sweet, healthy and has so many benefits. You have nothing to lose.

domain: agronomy


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Only 34% of honorary degrees in the last five years have been bestowed to women, a York Vision investigation has found.
This revelation comes despite the University’s supposed commitment to tackling gender inequality, recognised by their participation in the Athena Swan scheme.
Since the January 2015 graduations, only 33 of a total 97 honorary degrees have been awarded to women by the Honorary Associations Committee after open nominations from members of University Council and Court, Heads of Academic Departments and Centres, members of staff, students, and alumni.
Notable women who have received an honoris causa in the last five years including Baroness Hale, former President of the Supreme Court of the United Kingdom, and Bridget Jones’ Diary author Helen Fielding.
In this timespan, 64 men were awarded the honor, including former England football manager Roy Hodgson and children’s writer Sir Michael Morpurgo.
The worst graduation period came in January 2016 as no women were honoured by the University whilst Hodgson and The Thick of It creator Armando Ianucci received degrees.
This figure seems to be indicative of a larger problem at York regarding institutionalised sexism. The University has a 17.6% mean gender pay gap between men and women. Women also occupy just 40% of positions in the top pay quartile despite there being more women employed at York.
These findings are likely to bring the manner in which honorary degrees are bestowed into question as gender equality has become an even more important issue facing the higher education sector in recent years.
The University and YUSU’s Women & Non-Binary Officers have been contacted for comment.
Featured image courtesy of the University of York

domain: sociology


Hip-hop producer and rapper Dominick J. Lamb, better known by his stage name Nottz,, has dropped a super powerful new song.
Entitled “Black Woman“, the lyrically-rich and rebellious track features on Nottz’s upcoming project The Future is Female that gathers producers with an all-star cast of female emcees and vocalists.
The fresh-released song celebrates Black women all around the world and gives you goosebumps with its powerful message: “Black girl, keep you head up high! Don’t ever let them tell you that you ain’t fly“!
“Black Woman” features uplifting chorus vocals from amazing Nikki Grier with outstanding rap verses from Rhapsody, Ke Turner and Rah Digga. Nott’s signature drums absolutely slap the groovy beat and make a fantastic sound quality! The instrumental part complements the vocals so perfectly that it makes you instantly put the song on a repeat.
Nottz himself is a well-known figure who has previously produced for some of the biggest hip-hop names in the American music industry.
His portfolio includes works with Snoop Dogg, The Game, LLoyd Banks, The Notorious B.I.G., Pusha T, Scarface and J Dilla. Nottz’s music career started back in 1997 and in 2010 he released his first solo album You Need This Music which features him both as a producer and MC.
Although the release date for his next long-awaited project Future Is Female is still unknown, Nottz shared some details on the work to Complex: “As far the artists goes, there’s 50+ incredibly talented women on this project. We have Rapsody, Rah Digga, Estelle, Lady Luck, Ladybug Mecca, and so on. Way more to mention… Stay tuned!”
“Black Woman” is available now on all major music retailing and streaming platforms! Follow the link below to enjoy the incredible artwork and look out for Future Is Female!


Whether you’re looking to cut down on energy costs or need to find a space-efficient unit, tankless water heaters are great additions to your home. Call now at 855-931-1331 for your free estimate and to find out which tankless water heater model is best for your household.
For Water Heater problems big or small, we have the experience to handle it.
Call now to discuss your needs and get the process started
Emergency? Calls are answered 24/7
One of the most common problems with tankless water heater installation in Lake Wales FL happens when the water stops flowing completely. This happens because the pipes have been installed correctly but the flow of the water isn't what it ought to be. This can indicate that your house is without running water, but you do not know it until it's too late. When the water stops flowing through the heater will have to be repaired or replaced. If this problem is not taken care of immediately then you could have a catastrophe on your hands.
Many homeowners in this field are interested in tankless water heater installation in Lake Wales, Florida because they would like to save money on their electricity bills. But for some, the thought of tankless water heater installation in Lake Wales FL can cause a few issues. There are a couple things you ought to know before moving forward with any tankless water heater installation in Lake Wales, Florida.
Getting your own supply of warm water in your home is terrific. The trick to a long life and savings on your utilities would be to select a tankless water heater that will give you hot water when you need it, while saving energy and money in the long run. You will be surprised at how much money you will save by doing this simple upgrade!
Another wonderful reason to purchase a tankless water heater is that these units need less maintenance than their predecessors. You will not need to worry about having to change the filters on the heaters because these are the only part of the machine which has to do anything. The remainder of the unit is made out of stainless steel, so you won't encounter any issues with rust or corrosion. With modern technology, you also have the convenience of not needing to maintain a heater cover on the machine since these tankless heaters do not require a cover.
Although some people have a tough time accepting the fact that there's a possibility of saving money with a tankless water heater, they need to look at the long-term effects. This means that if you've got a fantastic water heater and take care of it, you will not have to think about a replacement for many years to come.
These are the most popular types of tankless water heaters, as they provide the very best value for your money. These tankless water heaters can provide hot water instantly, even if it's off when you turn on the hot water tap. The problem with this sort of unit is that it doesn't save much in energy, but this will depend on the model you get. You can also find some models that will consume less power, while others use a lot more.
Tankless water heaters are becoming increasingly popular throughout the United States, but in Florida it is considered particularly vital. There are a variety of reasons for this actuality. One of these reasons is related to the way that water from the environment is handled in the state of Florida. As you may be aware, climate changes dramatically in the northeast and southwestern parts of the state. These extremes mean that there's a great deal of rain, and this heavy downpour can cause issues with water lines and other utilities. This means that many water heaters require holding capacity, which is something which a tankless water heater installation in Lake Wales FL will cure.
When you are considering the installation of a tankless water heater, it can be hard to picture the unit on your bathroom. If you are in the kitchen, you would use the tankless water heater to heat the water that you use for cooking or for cleaning and washing.
A tankless water heater installation in Lake Wales FL will include two major components. The first of which is the heating element itself, which has to be installed into an area with an adequate supply of warm water. Most heating elements must be installed by a licensed contractor, since there are lots of security and operational issues involved with the operation of these kinds of units. There is typically a drain or outlet located on the bottom of the tank, so that water may be drained into a container, should water levels rise in a crisis.
There are tankless water heaters that use propane as their source of power. This means that the tankless water heater installation will be different depending on which model you purchase. Some versions will operate on power and will require a separate electric meter. Other tankless water heaters are powered by gas or oil and will often require a connection to an existing gas or oil line.
Areas We Cover Include: 33853, 33859, 33877, 33898


text:
The Fed and How It Got That Way
Here is a quick history of the Federal Reserve and an overview of what it does.
Have A Question About This Topic?
There are unique risks of owning a second home and obtaining the proper coverage may protect you from financial risk.
Here’s a quick guide to checking to see if you have unclaimed money.
Is it possible to avoid loss? Not entirely, but you can attempt to manage risk.


The Toronto Alliance to End Homelessness (TAEH) and the City of Toronto launched a public awareness campaign this morning to encourage Torontonians to challenge their perceptions of those who are currently experiencing homelessness.The City's emergency shelter system will be expanding. Up to four new shelters are in the planning stages for 2017 in preparation for the eventual demolition of Seaton House, a large men's shelter in downtown Toronto.In advance of those shelters opening, the City is proposing some important changes to how communities are engaged around potential new shelter services and the model of service used in these new programs.The proposed new engagement process includes public open houses rather than large town hall meetings, facilitation by third parties and conducting a detailed needs and opportunity assessment of each proposed neighbourhood.The campaign was created by the social impact agency PUBLIC Inc. and uses transit ads, online ads and social media to demonstrate the disconnect between what people might say about the prospect of a shelter program coming to their community and what they really believe.The campaign website torontoforall.ca provides information and resources to encourage further dialogue and encourage residents to challenge their prejudices against people experiencing homelessness.This is the third phase of the City's Toronto for All campaign which has an overall goal of creating a Toronto that says "no" to all forms of discrimination and racism. Phase 1 ran in the summer of 2016 and focused on Islamophobia. Phase 2 was launched in the fall of 2016 and addressed anti-Black racism. Both campaigns successfully encouraged conversations among Toronto residents and media regarding the relevant issues.


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The news site says sources have told them that “The Umbrella Academy will be hitting Netflix” and that Gerard Way “is definitely involved in the project.”
Though Splash Report does not share who their insider source is, they do say that they have been told that the announcement “will come shortly,” even potentially at this year’s San Diego Comic Con.
However, last fall, screenwriter Jeremy Slater, who was enlisted for both The Exorcist TV series and the Death Note movie for Netflix as well, told Collider he had a pilot written for The Umbrella Academy series.
“I definitely wrote the pilot for The Umbrella Academy,” he told Collider. “I was really adamant about taking the job, but the only way I was going to do it was if I could make it weird and make it true to the spirit of the book. There’s a lot of weird shit in The Umbrella Academy, and it would be very easy to sand down some of those weird edges and make it more familiar to American audiences. I’m fighting very hard to not let that happen.”
He further explained that they were shopping around the pilot, so could it be that it ended up on Netflix? Our fingers are crossed.
How excited would you be for an Umbrella Academy series? Let us know in the comments below!


Active coronavirus infections in South Dakota continue two-week slide
The South Dakota Department of Health reported Monday two additional people with COVID-19 have died, while 42 new infections from coronavirus were also reported.
The two new deaths brought the statewide total to 1,993. One person was aged 50-59 and 70-79. One was a woman and one a man.
The 42 new infections reflected the dramatic slowing of the virus in South Dakota. A total of 123,686 South Dakotans have tested positive for coronavirus.
Seven of the new cases were in Minnehaha County and three were among Lincoln County residents. Five were from Brown County and two in Codington County.
The number of active infections fell to 828, as the state reported that 102 people were newly recovered. The state hasn't reported more new cases than recoveries in two weeks.
There were 71 people with COVID-19 occupying a hospital bed in Monday's report, which was data reported from Friday. Of those, 20 were receiving intensive care and 10 were on ventilators.
A total of 338,679 people in the state have received doses of a COVID-19 vaccine through the state and the Federal Retail Pharmacy Program. That number does not include vaccinations through other federal entities.
Most recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that 410,082 people in the state have received at least one dose.


LAFAYETTE — Picking up where they left off nearly a month ago, officials will meet this week to consider approving a contentious plan they say will guide land use and design in the heart of the city.
Council members will continue on Monday with a public hearing on the Downtown Lafayette Specific Plan, which staffers argue will help the city retain its small-town feel while protecting its beloved hills and ridgelines and allowing for housing near transit.
They will also be considering certification of the plan’s final environmental impact report and amendments to the city’s general plan.
Opponents have come out in force at previous meetings to express their concerns about possible increased building heights and other issues. They have also questioned the city’s position that the benefits of the plan will outweigh certain unavoidable impacts, including traffic congestion and pollution outlined in the environmental report.
The meeting begins at 7 p.m. at the Lafayette Library and Learning Center Community Hall, 3491 Mt. Diablo Blvd.


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walking through the city I saw the young girls
with bodies all silk from underthings to eyebrows
glad-breasted tittering girls
and I wondered how even for an hour
you could love a woman who has no silk
with the effort of making a soul
– Doris Vanderlipp Manley (from When I Am An Old Woman I Shall Wear Purple)
My mother wrote this poem so thanks for posting.She just died at age 90 on Nov.25 2014.She wasn’t in the habit of reading blogs,though she did use a computer and made good use of garage band in particular,but I think she would’ve liked yours.
The poem moved me. I’m glad I posted it and more glad you found it here, thank you.
I just found and read your mother’s obituary. What an amazing woman, who led a full, socially conscious and creative life. My condolences to you and your family .

domain: literature


text:
. (1818) Religious tractsLondon, Printed for F. C. and J. Rivington, Booksellers to the Society,MLA Citation
. Religious Tract. London: Printed For F. C. And J. Rivington, Booksellers To The Society, 1818. Print.
These citations may not conform precisely to your selected citation style. Please use this display as a guideline and modify as needed.
dispersed by the Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge, in thirteen volumes, on the Christian religion, doctrine and practice.
|Published:||London, Printed for F. C. and J. Rivington, Booksellers to the Society, 1818.|
|Topics:||Tract societies - Great Britain. | Tracts | Church of England.|

domain: library


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domain: entertainment


What to look forward to: As Apple prepares to release 13-inch MacBook Pros with the latest M2 processor, Bloomberg believes updates for other models will arrive, perhaps this year. Most likely, they will not be drastic changes from the current design, but should improve performance.
Mark Gurman of Bloomberg claims Apple is already working on new 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models with M2 SoC. Aside from the new processor, they should be basically the same as current similarly sized MacBook Pros, echoing their M1 Pro and M1 Max processors with the M2 Pro and M2 Max.
Compared to the M1, benchmarks show that the M2 achieves a modest 11 percent improvement in single-threaded performance, an 18 percent increase in multi-threaded performance, and an impressive 43 percent increase in graphics performance. The enhancements to the M2 Pro and M2 Max over their predecessors will make the same difference in terms of graphics, which should help users with tasks like video editing.
The MacBook Air M2 is available now, and Apple will start shipping the 13-inch MacBook Pro with the M2 chip on June 23, ahead of schedule. Depending on the supply chain, larger variants could arrive in late 2022 or early 2023. This window is in line with forecasts for an increase in M2 production later this year.
Of the alleged nine planned Apple M2 Macs, five are still missing, likely desktop models such as the Mac Pro with the M2 Ultra.


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New Book: Donald Anderson with Joshua Matthew, The Last White Hunter: Reminiscences of a colonial shikari (Indus Source Books)
Although the Crown Rule or British Raj is defined from the years 1858 to 1947, Britain’s association with India started centuries earlier. The British East Indies company began trade along the coasts of India from the early 1600s, competing with the Dutch and the French to gain access to an abundance of natural resources in India. In 1757, when Robert Clive won the Battle of Plassey, the incident often considered the beginning of the British Empire in India, Scotland was already a part of Great Britain. And among the multitude of people who crossed the Cape of Good Hope to come to India, the Scots constituted a sizeable population. Those who landed on Indian shores were an eclectic mix of civil servants, traders, missionaries, army men, teachers, all seeking adventure, fame or fortune in one form or another. The domiciled British came to be known as Anglo Indians, although over the course of the next two centuries, the definition would change many times over. For the new migrants, especially among the men who lived in proximity to forests, hunting provided not just recreation, but also a rite of passage.
Conservation was unheard of, and tigers, panthers, bears and other mega fauna were often considered vermin and hunters were rewarded for their destruction.
However, the early hunters all hunted for sport, and not until Jim Corbett ‘s book ‘Man-eaters of Kumaon’ in 1944, did the colonial shikari’s tales garner mass appeal. Corbett was born in India and while a pucca sahib at heart, his love for India and the people were genuine and there was a certain Indian-ness that transpired in his books. Kenneth Anderson was his equivalent in south India. His ancestors arrived in India in the early 1800s from Glasgow and his father, who worked for the Army, settled down in Bangalore. Kenneth wrote 8 books, that were not about hunting for sport like the early settlers, but putting an end to man eating tigers and panthers that were a menace to society. After independence, Kenneth decided to stay on in India and he passed away in 1974. His son, Donald who considered himself a ‘white hunter’ lived a colourful life, witnessing an incredible transformation in the world around him, from 1934 to 2014. I’ve tried to reconstruct his incredible, poignant and ultimately wretched story over those years.
I believe that Donald’s story of adventure and fun, yet of hardship and loss would appeal to many Anglo-Indians especially those who still remember growing up in India. His tale is rather unique in a sense too, because he witnessed life in both British and independent India and his story provides so many perspectives of life over 80 transformational years.


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My name is Maria (this is my stage name since i'm a little internet shy). I'm a 21 year old student from Scotland.
This is the point where I should tell you all the things that make me an interesting, vibrant young person and that make me....well....me.
Sadly, I feel I have lost my passion, my way, my focus in life. I feel I have become consumed by what I would say is intense body image issues and a disordered relationship with food. I feel that this has held me back over the years and has made me lose touch with myself all they way down to basic things like my hungers signals and what I actually like to eat. I've lost weight, gained weight, you know the story. I've been stupid, sensible and just lazy. I've neglected my health and yet become obseessed with it at different points in my life. I've never found balance. I've never been diagnosed with an eating disorder, but i'm smart enough to know that my relationship with food is not normal and not healthy.
I have become so exhausted recently with counting calories, carbs, fat grams, glasses of water drunk, minutes of exercise...i'm sure there are many out there who can relate. I am completely burnt out. I am sick of my thoughts being consumed with dieting and exercise and my weight. I need a break. I need to find balance. I need to learn how to accept myself and how to be normal around food. I need to learn how to enjoy exercise but not overexercise. I need to learn how to get my priorities right in life. I need to learn how to enjoy my food and not immediately feel that i've gained weight. I need to learn that being skinny, fat, normal does not determine what you are worth. It's going to be hard. And sometimes I wonder if i'll ever make it but I need to stop all this. I need to get better. So i'm here to try and recover, to try to live normally, to stop making lists of things I can eat and can't, to stop obsessing over skinny celebritites. It makes me tired, unhappy and withdrawn. It makes me lose myself. It stops me from going to things incase there is food there or incase I look fat in pictures. It's ridiculous I know, but it's been part of my life for so long.
I hope that by plotting my progress here I might get advise from others who have been through the same, I might get inspiration from other bloggers out there, and there might be people that will find my blog inspiring and useful in their own journey.

domain: psychology


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Her campaign upended by a Republican surge (except for Ulster), losing congressional candidate Zephyr Teachout says she’ll keep it local for the foreseeable future.
“I have no intentions to run for office at this time,” she said via telephone from her Clinton Corners home on Tuesday. But she says she’ll keep busy reorganizing Democrats in the town and Dutchess County after John Faso’s — and Donald Trump’s — victory in the 19th Congressional District.
Democrat Teachout, who will retain her position as an associate professor of law at Fordham University, lost the election to Republican Faso by some 26,000 votes. She carried Democratic Ulster by 9325 votes. Results indicate she lost “the Faso end” of the district by over 37,000 votes. Usually solidly Democratic Sullivan County and nominally Democratic Orange both went for the Republican candidate.
Analyzing election returns, Teachout concluded that the mistake Democrats made was not necessarily in underestimating Trump, but in lending too much credence to Mitt Romney’s 2012 campaign against president Brarack Obama.
“Romney did not nearly have the support we thought he had,” she said. “He had no popular appeal. In the end there was a 15-point swing between Obama carrying the district by six points and Trump carrying it by nine. We thought we were looking at just a few points.”
Taking similar positions to Hillary Clinton, Teachout closely matched Clinton returns in Ulster. Overall, both carried the county with about 55 percent. A sampling of official returns in Kingston showed Teachout a 60-40 winner, the same as Clinton. In Woodstock, Teachout, with 82 percent of the vote, ran slightly ahead of Clinton. A sampling of key districts in New Paltz, where she held a well-attended October rally with Bernie Sanders, gave her over 85 percent.
As with Clinton, Saugerties was a battleground, with Teachout eking out a 34-vote win. Clinton carried Saugerties by 134 votes.
Criticized by the conservative Faso as far-left, Teachout, 45, said she has no intention of changing her core beliefs. “I think you have to run as who you are,” she said. “It’s an ethical challenge. I am what I am.”
That said, Teachout said one of the things that “puzzled” her about the campaign was that “people didn’t know what Democrats stood for,” a criticism also leveled at Clinton.
“I work with the Working Families Party [which endorsed her],” she said. “I’m a Democrat and I believe it is incredibly important all the time to talk about basics, social security, infrastructure, investing in the future. You cannot not talk about the economy at the top of the ticket.”
Huge amounts of cash
Teachout also expressed concern about the volume of money expended in the congressional election. Campaign reports indicate that about $19 million was spent, almost evenly divided between the candidates.
“I’ve studied money in politics all my life. I did not expect that much. I was a little shocked,” she said.
A chief concern was that about a third of funding came from so-called unaccountable “superpacs,” which by law cannot coordinate campaigns with candidates. “It was unnerving that in our race the majority of messages people were hearing was from people who weren’t talking to the candidates,” she said.
In keeping with a lower profile, Teachout said she would not be attending the million-woman protest in Washington on January 21, opting instead for a similar event in Cooperstown.
She believes that after some initial post-election disillusionment the mood of local Democrats is upbeat. “We’re rebuilding,” she said. “There’s definitely a hunger to act. Politics after all is the constant job of holding power accountable. We’re just trying to figure out what that means.”
Asked what advice would she give Faso as he assumes office, Teachout paused and laughed. “I think he has a chance to show he’s not working for the big-money people,” she said.
While eschewing her own candidacy for the time being, Teachout predicts that the almost evenly divided congressional district will continue to be a battleground.
“This is a swing district,” she said. “We lost by eight points, but the beating heart of this district is the independents. We will continue to see intense elections in this district.”


The Federal Salary Council has proposed adding San Antonio and Birmingham to the list of locality pay areas for 2018.
The average rate increase for 2017 under the health insurance plan for federal employees (FEHB) will be 6.2% in 2017.
AFGE Officer Lies Under Oath to Chief FLRA ALJ While AFGE Locals Continue Corruption Crimes at Higher Rates Than Ever
The author looks at a history of court cases involving AFGE and says that they indicate the union has more corruption indictments and convictions than ever before.
The Commission on Care has issued a report on how to improve medical care for veterans. A federal employee union disagrees with the report. Here is why.
Legislation has been introduced ahead of the busy summer travel season to direct the TSA to reassign its employees’ duties to help alleviate the growing security lines that have been plaguing airports around the country.
Federal unions showed the largest growth rate in membership since 2008 according to recent BLS data. The author points out, however, that federal unions have been under attack from various laws and court cases which he says presents a long term challenge for unions going forward.
It was announced earlier this month that legislation would be introduced to give federal employees a 5.3% pay increase in 2017. That bill has now officially been introduced in the House.
FedSmith.com users said in a recent poll that federal workers deserve a 5.3% pay raise in 2017.


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Rated 5 out of
Great Gig at Pizza Express Live
We saw Hannah & Co at the new(ish) Pizza Express Live venue in High Holborn last night - very nice intimate subterranean venue really close up to the action. Never seen them live before, and loved the performance - vocals and harmonies spot-on (Hannah has great range & expression, and is obviously a lovely lady to boot). The Affirmations are a very talented band: great songs, great energy, passion and performance! Go see before the ticket prices soar...!
Date published: 2018-01-12


- UCD CS academics invited to organise prestigious Dagstuhl seminars - University College Dublin School of Computer Science News, March 28, 2024
As we work with AI and rely on AI for more and more decisions that influence our lives, the research area of explainable AI (XAI) has rapidly developed, with goals such as increasing trust, enhancing collaboration, and enabling transparency in AI. However, to date, the focus of XAI has largely been on explaining the input-output mappings of “black box” models like neural networks, which have been seen as the central problem for the explainability of AI systems. While these models are certainly important, intelligent behavior often extends over time and needs to be explained and understood as such. The challenge of explaining sequential decision-making (SDM), such as that of robots collaborating with humans or software agents engaged in complex ongoing tasks, has only recently gained attention. We may have AIs that can beat us in Go, but can they teach us how to play? We may have search and rescue robots, but can we effectively communicate with them, and coordinate missions with them, in the field?
Initial attempts to make the behavior of SDM algorithms more understandable have recently appeared in different fields such as classical AI planning, reinforcement learning, multiagent systems, or logic-based argumentation – but often focused on ad hoc solutions to specific problems, with an emphasis on area-specific terminology and concepts developed in isolation of other fields. Many of these approaches are also restricted in their scope, for example to explanations of isolated, single actions that do not address the full complexity of SDM; or to summaries of entire agent policies, which are often too high-level to be helpful. To truly trust an AI agent and collaboratively work with it towards human goals, and to increase successful AI adoption and acceptance in many fields from robotics to logistics, and from production planning to smart cities, we need considerable progress on this new field of XAI for SDM (or X-SDM), which we will focus on developing in this Dagstuhl Seminar.
The seminar will focus on under-researched challenges that are unique to, or of particular relevance to, explainability in sequential decision-making settings. We will seek to identify and clarify such challenges, making use of the complementary perspectives of researchers from different communities such as reinforcement learning, planning, recommender systems, or multi-agent systems, which historically use different theoretical foundations and computational approaches. While the participants will form working groups based on their own research interests and priorities, topics to be discussed can for example include: XAI for complex decisions, e.g., on plans or policies instead of single output labels; conversational XAI that continuously interacts with users over time, aiming to understand and support them; contestable and collaborative XAI, which can successfully work with users in areas where neither user nor AI are omniscient or infallible; and flexible decision-making for XAI, able to adapt to users, respect their autonomy, and go beyond one-size-fits-all explanations. The aim of the seminar is to move towards a shared understanding of the field, and to develop a common roadmap for moving it forward.
- Artificial Intelligence
- explainable artificial intelligence
- sequential decision making


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By Suzy Byrne, Yahoo Entertainment Staff | Just ahead of Mother’s Day, the Foo Fighters and Nirvana musician and his mom, Virginia Hanlon Grohl, team up and travel home with other famous performers to talk with them — and their own moms — about their beginnings. The unscripted show, inspired by her book of the same name, sees them meeting with Miranda Lambert and her former mom-ager Bev Lambert in Texas — as well as visits with fellow Virginians Pharrell and Carolyn Williams and Brandi and Teresa Carlile in the rural Pacific Northwest. Being VIPs, the Grohls have an easy in with their subjects, who quickly get candid sharing funny anecdotes about each artists’ upbringing and the grind that goes into breaking into the music biz. The six-part series captures honest moments between the celebrities and their moms that you don’t often see, like Miranda begging Bev not to mention “Texas” in every sentence of their interview. Grohl also goes home to Springfield, Va., giving his own hometown tour in a way that’s very him — quipping to the camera person that they’ve got to get back inside quickly before any old friends see him and know he’s back in town. His stories about his own rise to fame and conversations with Virginia make it an interesting watch in itself. — Suzy Byrne
From Cradle to Stage premieres Thursday, May 6 on Paramount+.