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Varalakshmi School & College of Nursing, Bangalore Best Courses
Varalakshmi School of Nursing courses are at diploma, postgraduate and undergraduate levels. The eligibility norms for the different programs vary, thus the candidates ought to apply only if eligible.
Diploma in General Nursing and Midwifery [GNM]
The VSCN’s GNM course runs for 3 years, following which the successful candidates obtain diplomas. As part of this full-time program, the pupils study the fundamentals of Nursing. Also, the learning of this program is helpful for pursuing advanced studies in Nursing.
To be eligible for this course, the candidates must pass their 10+2 standard exams with 40% marks, having subjects including English and 4 others from recognized Educational Boards, in streams of Arts, Science, or Commerce. The minimum age to apply is 17 years. Besides, medical fitness is another pre-requisite.
Bachelor of Science (B.Sc. Nursing)
At Varalakshmi College of Nursing, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing is for undergraduates, having duration of 3 years. This full-time program equips the pupils to provide healthcare services in their roles as nurses and midwives. They receive training to be caretakers to the disorderly individuals for comforting them during the recovery period. Through this course, the pupils can avail several opportunities ranging from bed-related practices to administrative functions.
The eligibility norms of the College’s B.Sc. Nursing course require the aspirants to complete their 10+2 standards, with subjects such as Chemistry, Physics, English, and Biology. For the Biology subject, Zoology and Botany have to be individual subjects.
The candidates who have completed the Vocational Higher Secondary Course of the Board of Vocational Higher Secondary Examination in Kerala must have minimum 5 subjects. Moreover, their topics should be English, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, along with the vocational subject, for them to be eligible for the program.
Master of Science (M.Sc. Nursing)
Varalakshmi Nursing College offers full-time, postgraduate M.Sc. Nursing program has 2-year duration. During this course, the pupils become familiar with advanced concepts of Nursing. Also, after completing the program, they can avail job options such as nurse practitioner and clinical nurse specialist, among other independent Nursing roles. They can opt to become educators and researchers in the Nursing field, too. Moreover, they can build their careers in forensic nursing, overseas nursing, case management, and military nursing.
To apply for this course, the candidates should pass their B.Sc. in Nursing, or Post Basic Bachelor of Nursing (P.B B.Sc.), from any University that is affiliated to RGUHS or any other equivalent University. Having 1-year experience after completion of the P.B B.Sc. in Nursing or B.Sc. in Nursing is a requisite, as well. The aspirant should, also, be a Registered Midwife and Registered Nurse from any State Nursing Council.
Additionally, those candidates who have passed from any university other than RGUHS have to submit Eligibility Certificate.
Bear in mind that the Varalakshmi School and College or Nursing fees for the varied courses differ. Also, be sure to study the Varalakshmi School and College of Nursing fee structure, according to which the fees are to be paid within the mentioned deadlines. Further, keep in mind that the fees are non-refundable post payment.
Get Varalakshmi School & College of Nursing, Bangalore

domain: medical


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New World (Dis-)Order: What moves Jens Stoltenberg?
100,000 Russian soldiers on the Ukrainian border, worries about an invasion of Ukraine: the continued military build-up and Moscow’s demands for a reorganisation of the European security architecture continue to fuel tensions between Russia and the West. NATO is signalling a willingness to continue dialogue, but it also points to profound differences and the real danger of armed conflict in Europe. How should NATO respond to Moscow’s demands? How can the current crisis be defused? And what about the future of the transatlantic alliance? A few days after the NATO-Russia Council, which met for the first time in two years in light of the crisis, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg discusses current challenges for the Atlantic Alliance with Britta Sandberg, Der Spiegel, and Nora Müller, Körber-Stiftung. In cooperation with Der Spiegel.

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The incredible 2005 Natita 1801 GRT superyacht is currently up for sale in Palm Beach Florida for a cool 59.5 million euros ($67.6 million). The yacht measures 66 metres in length and incorporates an exquisite Alberto Pinto interior.
The yacht boasts 700 square metres of accommodation for both the owner and guests. The owner has access to the full-beam 12 metre master suite while guests are provided with four different suites as well as a special VIP guest suite. As for the master suite, it incorporates wooden clad floors and walls and includes an expansive living area.
Also found within Natita 1801 GRT are a number of open living spaces including a massive dining room with a 10-seat dining table. One of the living rooms also includes a large bar and a grand piano. The interior is complemented by a selection of outdoor relaxation areas on the three different levels. One of those levels incorporates a unique circular swimming pool. There is also a small beach club and room for a tender.

domain: design


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OKLAHOMA CITY -- In an era of dirty politics, there is a new day on the horizon.
There were some hotly contested races throughout the state on Tuesday, including the race for Deer Creek School Board. The Deer Creek School District sits in the northwest corner of the Oklahoma City metro area.
Kelli Lay and Jerry Broughton were both actively seeking votes for the open seat, and each candidate spent weeks putting their signs across the district.
Even though one candidate won the seat, both of them are now working for the good of the district.
"We had two great candidates," said Deer Creek Superintendent Ranet Tippens. "We're so blessed they're both involved in our schools and going to continue to be."
If you're looking for a new standard for a clean race, look no further than Deer Creek.
On election night, Kelli Lay came out on top with about 60 percent of the district's 1,250 votes.
"We were both running for the position, but we weren't running against each other," Broughton said. "We were running to help Deer Creek."
"I wish every campaign could be like this," laughed Lay.
Soon after the votes were tallied, Lay and Broughton teamed up to clean up the area.
An anonymous donor agreed to donate a dollar for every campaign sign that was still posted on the side of the road.
Lay and Broughton agreed to match every donation, which means every sign collected will earn $2 for a local organization.
All money raised will go to the DC Transition House to help special needs students learn life skills for independent living.
"It is the piece that's missing to allowing these kids to graduate, live, work and be contributing members of their community," said Heather Squires, the parent of a child with special needs.
The DC Transition House will be the first of its kind in Oklahoma. The district is planning a top-notch facility for students who are generally left-out of capital campaigns.
"These students, they are just not seen real often, and for the first act after a school board election to be for these kids, I've never heard of that before," said Squires.
They are just getting started with fundraising, and they have a long way to go.
"If you see a sign pick it up. Take a picture and send it to us," Lay said.
There are about 800 out there, and only half have been collected so far.
"We had some in Logan County from the wind blowing them up there," Broughton joked. "You may find them up by Guthrie."
We all know politics is local; perhaps our state and federal leaders should take note.
If you see a campaign sign in the Deer Creek area:
- Pick it up.
- Take a picture.
- Send the pic to a candidate Facebook Page.

domain: news


The Blue Badge Scheme provides parking concessions for people with disabilities who travel either as drivers or as passengers.
Community Transport provides transport for those who do not have suitable conventional public transport services.
Devon offers an exceptionally wide selection of cycle routes and cycle facilities, both on and off road.
Rights of Access covers those providing goods, facilities or services to the public and those selling, letting or managing premises.
Disability Living Allowance
Disability Living Allowance is a tax-free benefit for children and adults who need help with personal care.
Hospital Travel Costs Scheme
Travelling to hospital may be difficult for you because of the cost, the length or complexity of the journey, or the lack of access to transport.
The Motability Scheme was established to provide disabled people with safe, reliable and affordable cars.
The National Key Scheme offers independent access to disabled people to around 7,000 locked public toilets around the country.
Take a bus or train - help to reduce congestion and pollution, protect the environment and support a local service.
Ring and Ride Schemes
Ring & Ride Schemes operate within a number of towns and rural locations throughout Devon.
Safer cars are good news but for everyone's sake we need safer drivers.
Shopmobility provides wheelchairs and scooters to help people with limited mobility to shop and use the city centre facilities.
Bus and Rail timetables.
Information about free bus passes, passports and senior railcards.
Print this page
Devon County Council, Topsham Road, Exeter, EX2 4QD
Our contact numbers | Tel: 0845 155 1015 | Fax: 0845 155 1003 | SMS: 80011 (please start all messages with the word Devon).
Disclaimer | Privacy | Copyright | Access to Information | Security


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"Asbury Woods and Trails, 4105..." Erie Off The Beaten Path Tip by mtwohig
Erie Off The Beaten Path: 10 reviews and 19 photos
Asbury Woods and Trails, 4105 Asbury Road, Less than a mile south of West 38th Street.
If you are traveling west on West 38th Street, turn south when you come to the four-way stop at Asbury Road.
There's no charge to use the trails.
The nature center is open seven days a week during the summer. From Monday to Saturday, the center is open 10a.m. to 5p.m.
On Sunday, the center is open noon to 5p.m.
Trail Rules: The trails are open during daylight hours. Stay on the trail and carry out any trash.
Mountain bikes and pets are allowed on Greenway trails, on the west side of Asbury Road, and at Brown's Farm, off Sterrettania Road.
No bikes or pets are allowed on the trails around the Nature Center, on the east side of Asbury Road.
Camping, fires, alcohol, smoking, hunting, paintball and motorized vehicles are prohibited.
For more information, call 814-835-5356, or visit www.asburywoods.org
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The Supreme Court on Wednesday rejected petitioners’ demands to transfer the investigation into US short-seller Hindenburg’s allegations of stock price manipulationsby Adani Group firms, while ordering market regulator Sebi to complete its probe in three months.
Delivering its judgment on a batch of petitions seeking examination of allegations of fraud made against Adani Group in short-seller Hindenburg Research’s report, a bench comprising Supreme Court Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, and justices J.B. Pardiwala and Manoj Misra said the scope of power of the court to enter into the regulatory domain of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) is limited.
The court noted that Sebi has completed its probe in 22 of 24 cases relating to the allegations against Adani Group and ordered the regulator to complete its probe into pending matters within three months.
Adani group stocks surged on the Supreme Court’s verdict on Wednesday, compared with a 0.75% decline in the benchmark Sensex.
Shares of Adani Enterprises Ltd rose 2.45%, while those of Adani Total Gas Ltd jumped 9.8%, and those of Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd advanced 1.39% on Wednesday.
“The Hon’ble Supreme Court’s judgement shows that: Truth has prevailed. Satyameva Jayate. I am grateful to those who stood by us. Our humble contribution to India’s growth story will continue. Jai Hind,” Adani Group chairman Gautam Adani posted on X (formerly Twitter).
The Supreme Court, while refusing to issue any other direction to Sebi, said the scope of judicial review is only to see whether any fundamental right has been violated.
“No valid ground invoked for us (in this case) to direct Sebi to revoke its regulations and the current regulations are tightened by amendments in question,” the apex court said.
The Supreme Court also rejected allegations of regulatory failure by Sebi.
“Investigative reports by the press can act as inputs for Sebi but cannot be taken as credible evidence or a proof of regulatory failure by Sebi and it cannot cast doubt on the investigation being carried on by a statutory body,” the court held.
The bench also turned down the plea to transfer the probe to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) or any other agency.
“This court has the power under Articles 32 and 142 to transfer the probe to CBI…but such powers can only be used sparingly, and this court will not ordinarily supplant this role and the petitioners must put forth strong evidence to show that the investigative agency (Sebi) acted in a biased manner,” the bench said.
The court had on 24 November reserved its verdict on a batch of petitions alleging stock price manipulation by Adani Group firms.
The public interest litigations were filed in the Supreme Court after a report by short-seller Hindenburg Research claimed that the Indian conglomerate manipulated stock prices through fraudulent means. Adani Group refused the allegations and maintained that it complied with all laws and disclosure requirements.
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Understanding the climate crisis with Marina Romanello
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Air India, Tata Advanced Systems to invest $280 million in Karnataka

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Can you be your own tour guide at the Costa Maya cruise port?
You absolutely can!
We have experienced guided tours and rented a golf cart to explore independently.
Either way, you’ll have a great time exploring Costa Maya.
One of our favorite things about the Costa Maya, Mexico cruise port is the water. That cerulean blue invites you to come out and play from the moment you take that peek out of your balcony.
As you’re strolling down the long dock towards the port, you can peer over it, and you might see a preview of what you may see if you spend some time at the beach.
There is plenty of colorful fish, and sometimes you’ll see a stingray.
Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we earn a commission at no extra cost. Please refer to our full disclosure for details.
During our first time in Costa Maya, we enjoyed a great tour with Native Choice.
After visiting Chacchoben Ruins, we spent the afternoon of fun and relaxation at Seven Color of the Seas Lagoon, also known as Lago Bacalar. Here we also had a delicious lunch and unlimited piña coladas.
It was a great day! We look forward to returning in the future. Little did we know at the time then that we’d be back here exactly a year later and exploring on our own.
We didn’t make any specific plans for this cruise itinerary with the Norwegian Pearl.
We thought we’d wing it and figure it out at the port. If something adventurous didn’t spark our spontaneity, we were fine with another beach day.
Costa Maya Cruise Port
The Costa Maya Cruise Terminal
The Costa Maya cruise port terminal is built, so you never have to leave its confines unless you want to. It’s a maze with many shops, restaurants, bars, access to the beach, and even a free pool.
There is a variety of entertainment provided by locals and plenty of photo opportunities.
Truthfully, it reminds us slightly of Disneyland. But it’s one of the nicest cruise terminals we’ve been to thus far.
Costa Maya cruise terminal is great for tourists who don’t want to venture far and want to stay close to the ship.
Did we mention it’s a maze? Finding your way out of the terminal is an adventure in itself. It doesn’t help that shop owners are eager to get your attention, so you’ll step into one of their business establishments. All while you’re trying to find the exit. It delays things for sure.
It’s my least favorite part of this port. However, THE JOURNEY IS PART OF THE ADVENTURE, and adventure is what we find right before the exit.
Why should you go on a cruise? See our 25 reasons why a cruise vacation is one of the best. Start your vacation planning and cruise planning today. Enjoy the benefits of cruising and Enjoy the benefits of cruising and exploring port destinations around the world.
What to Do in Costa Maya Cruise Port?
Rent a Golf Cart
Finally! After our way out of the maze, we bumped into a vendor renting golf carts. At first, we started to walk away, but then we looked over our shoulders and thought, “FREEDOM!”
Taxi, smaxi. Psfff. Who needs a taxi when you can drive yourself around?
In minutes we negotiated a 5-hour rental for much less than they offered. So, don’t be afraid to haggle a little. Still, be fair.
Thankfully, hubby loves to drive because if it were just up to me, I am not sure if this is the route I would have chosen. Make sure you’re comfortable being behind the wheel and in a golf cart with no doors or windows.
With the rental, they will provide you with a map and give you the route you’ll want to stay on with the golf carts. They may also point out locations where you can park for free.
Driving Around Costa Maya
The vendor handed us a map and instructed us on two main streets that looped around the Costa Maya, Mexico, cruise port area. We didn’t pay too close attention to that since we drove through the back streets and even passed unpaved roads.
We highly recommend you stay on the paved roads as the ride becomes bumpy, and the driver will have a harder time maneuvering the car.
Don’t be afraid to be your own tour guide.
Being your own tour guide means you can make as many stops as you like. There are many beachside bars, resorts, and unoccupied beaches. Locals are eager to ensure you’re having a good time there – don’t forget to tip.
We never felt unsafe. This is important because many cruisers stay at the terminal and don’t explore because of predetermined assumptions.
Leave the terminal, and explore what this Mahahual village has to offer, even if it’s just a quick trip to Malecon.
Other Transportation at Costa Maya Cruise Port
- Shuttles are available before exiting the cruise terminal that will take you to El Malecon (the boardwalk) for a couple of US dollars per person.
- Taxis are outside of the cruise terminal. You must exit and pass the golf carts.
Warning: There are many potholes on the roads. If you leave the port terminal or go out with a tour guide, expect a bumpy ride.
Mahahual Malecon (Downtown)
El Malecon in Mahahual is considered Costa Maya’s beachside downtown area. The pier is filled with beachgoers and nightlife.
Most cruisers take the quick shuttle from the terminal and spend it here for the day. For us, this was our last stop.
You will find everything at el Malecon:
- Beach bars
- Plenty of chairs along the beach at these bars and restaurants.
- Hair braiding
- The famous Mahahual sign
This may be your option if you’re looking for a no-frills beach day. You can take the shuttle to El Malecon, find a bar on the beach, order a margarita and some ceviche, and sit under a palm tree between dips in the ocean.
The water here is gorgeous!
It sounds like heaven!
Pack your snorkeling gear! Don’t forget the sunscreen. Here are 25 things to pack for the beach, whether you’re taking a beach vacation or a beach day trip from home.
Plan a Day at a Costa Maya Beach Club
Heading to a beach club is a popular choice. What’s not to like? Pay an entrance fee, and it may include drinks, food, and activities like kayaking and snorkeling.
We do not have any personal experience with these beach clubs yet, but we’ve heard many great things about them. We have them on our list for future trips. Since this trip was booked last minute, so everything was booked.
Book reservations well in advance. Make your selection wisely. Ask what’s included with the entrance fee.
Are you in the process of planning your cruise vacation? From cruise packing tips and hacks to what to do on the cruise ship and at the cruise ports, we have everything you need to know to ensure your cruise is unforgettable.
Other Things to Do in Costa Maya, Mexico
1. Maya, Mayan Lost Magic Kingdom
This is a great alternative for families with kiddos. Not far from the cruise terminal, you’ll find Costa Maya’s water park.
It’s a great way to spend a day cooling down. There are zip lines, pools, and waterslides everyone can enjoy.
- You can purchase tickets with your cruise line, including transportation.
- Or you can buy the tickets online and hop in a taxi outside the terminal to get there.
2. Discovery Scuba
Always wanted to learn to scuba diva but haven’t gotten to it? Discovery scuba is an amazing way for first-timers or beginners to get an introduction to scuba diving.
3. Take a Cooking Class
Spend the afternoon learning how to make a few of your favorite Mexican dishes, like guacamole and enchiladas!
Karlita’s Kitchen fits right into this Tasty Itinerary. If there is time after lunch, hit the beach – you have to make the most of your time at port!
4. ATV Adventure
For those looking for adventure and thrill, ride ATVs through Costa Maya while your guide introduces you to their local culture. Then have lunch at the beach before riding back.
Pros & Cons We Observed
These are simply observations we made.
👎 The maze at the port terminal. There should be an easier exit. If you find it out, please share the tip!
According to a reader in our comments (thank you, Doug!), the easiest way to cut through the maze is to go through the ice cream shop (Amorino Gelato) because it has two entrances.
👎 The constant push for tips left a bad taste in our mouths. We are not cheap. If anything, we always overtip. We regularly tip because we understand what it means to provide service to others with little in return. However, at this stop, they were asking for tips for every little thing that didn’t warrant a tip. When we didn’t oblige, we’d get an attitude.
👎 Garbage on the side of the roads. Very unfortunate that you’re driving along the coast, enjoying stupendous views, only to be disappointed by street rubbish. It’s a shame that people do not pick up after themselves. We ask that you please be kind to our world and not leave any trash behind.
❤ The water is calm, clear, and warm.
❤ Safe and easy to get around.
❤ The food! Although we have plenty of Mexican food here in Los Angeles, it’s still far superior when having it in Mexico.
Our TASTY ITINERARY TIP is to eat lunch at one of the many restaurants or ensure it is included in the tour. The food is amazing.
❤ Aside from the pushiness for tips, everyone was welcoming and warm. We understand they are working hard to provide for their families.
Next Stop: Back to New Orleans to disembark.
Costa Maya Cruise Port is one of those ports that will not disappoint. You can have a wonderful day exploring, spending it at the beach, taking a cooking class, or going on one of the many tours.
Your cruise day can be as relaxing or as adventurous as you want.
The water in Mahahual is incredible, so we will probably always do something water related… as long as there is food involved before or after. 😀
What are your must-sees and do’s at the Costa Maya Cruise Port? We would LOVE to hear about your experience.
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Quick Cruise Planning Guide
Where to book a cruise?
We like to shop around before booking by going directly to the cruise line and checking out the deals on GoToSea, CruiseDirect.com, Costco Travel, and Cruise Compete. Ultimately, the best advice is to find a travel agent you can trust to help you book a cruise.
Hotels for pre-cruise and post-cruise stays
We always use Booking.com or Hotels.com to book international accommodations and Expedia or Hotels.com for US accommodations. Airbnb or Vrbo for vacation rentals.
Can I book my own shore excursions?
Yes, you’ll save money booking your own excursions and not with the cruise ship. We like to use Viator or WithLocals. Don’t forget to read up on our tips for booking.
We like to rent a car at cruise ports and for the freedom to explore on our own when the destination makes sense. We also sometimes rent cars during our pre-cruise stay or on embarkation day.
Should I book cruise insurance?
Yes! Cruise insurance is essential. We always book with a third party rather than the cruise line. Compare pricing on Insuremytrip.com.
Packing for a Cruise? Don’t miss our essential cruise packing list.
Meet Kathy Ava, a food, travel, and cruise writer based in Los Angeles/Pasadena, and the owner and main writer of Tasty Itinerary. With over 20 years of experience planning trips and logistics at her full-time job and for herself, she's become a pro at crafting unforgettable tasty itineraries. She's always on the hunt for delicious, fun travel destinations and cruise itineraries. She firmly believes that life is short and we must make the most of it, so always say yes to dessert.


By EDEKI IGAFE
WARRI(DELTA)- A High Court sitting in Warri on Friday dismissed a libel suit instituted against the African Newspapers of Nigeria Plc (ANN Plc), publishers of the Nigerian Tribune by a lawyerm Andrew Anibor.
Delivering judgment, Justice Onajite Kuejubola, dismissed the suit on the grounds that Anibor failed to prove the suit against ANN Plc.
Anibor had instituted the suit with number: W/203/2018 against ANN’s Plc Managing Director/Editor-In-Chief, Edward Dickson, and a reporter, Tunde Oyekola as defendants over an alleged publication on Aug. 20, 2012.
The alleged publication bordered on a judgment delivered by Justice M. Umukoro of a Delta High Court, Warri Judicial Division in a case with suit number: W/257/2011.
Anibor had earlier filed a suit against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged breach of fundamental human rights which was consequently dismissed by Justice Umukoro on June 12, 2012.
However, unsatisfied by judgment, Anibor instituted a suit against the defendants, ANN Plc praying the court to award him N50 million over alleged defamation.
Speaking with newsmen shortly after the judgment, Mr Femi Edema, the defence counsel said that the Judgment was in favour of his client, ANN Plc.
“The judgment is in our favour, the African Newspapers of Nigeria Plc, publishers of the Nigerian Tribune.
“The judgment was read in open court and the claimant who is also a lawyer was in court, sued ANN Plc for libel and N50 million in damages over alleged defamation.
”As it is now, the judgment is in favour of ANN Plc that is the end of the case,” Edema said. (NAN)


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I've been a little light on the posting this week, but I suppose that's what happens when you're reading a moderately weighty book, and working on two projects that aren't done yet.
Project number one is the Pulsation Socks for my mother. The above is sock number one, but I'm actually past the heel on sock number two, and almost half way through the decreases into the foot. Depending on how much of a lazy weekend I end up having, I should be able to finish these off and move onto my sister's gift.
I do have to say, I'm glad my mother say this yarn and liked it, because as much as I liked the color together on the skein, and as much as I like working with this yarn, I don't think I would have ever worn anything made out of this yarn myself when it was finished. So, definitely better that it's going to my mother, as it's totally her cup of tea.
Project number two is the Brocade Leaves sweater. I finished the front on Thursday, all except for some weaving in of of ends. The v-neck was a smidge challenging. On both sides, I ended up with a stitch too many when I got to the top (luckily, the last two rows have equal amounts of stitches, so I was able to decrease those both out), but at least they're even. The front even matches the back in size, which is definitely exciting. I'm looking forward to getting the sleeves done and seeing how this looks when it's finished.

domain: hobby


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The Horrors Strange House, 2007, Loog Records
Jack the Ripper
Count in Fives
She is the New Thing
Sheena is a Parasite
A Train Roars
Death at the Chapel
From the Essex seaside town of Southend, gothic rockers The Horrors formed in 2005. Strange House was their debut album. It’s very different in sound and style from their later, more well-known work.
The opening track, a cover of "Jack the Ripper "is a weak start, it’s very much just screaming. "Count in Fives" is a bit more fun, everyone likes a song about numbers, don’t they? "Draw Japan" has some really great guitar work and will make you want to move. Gloves has great work from the rhythm section as well as the guitars, it’s the best song so far. "Excellent Choice" is a surprise, there is a definite Blur vibe to the spoken word part of it. There’s a touch of the music hall about "Little Victories" with the use of the organ really coming to the fore. It’s an interesting way to mix things up a bit. "She Is the New Thing "is probably The Horrors’ version of a love song. It’s a bit ponderous, but still one of the better tracks as the slightly slower pace works well. Single release "Sheena Is a Parasite" is fast and furious (literally as well as figuratively, the anger seems to seep out at you as you listen). It would certainly have been a good introduction to what this band were about at the time. "Thunderclaps" is interesting, the melody feels very much like something from an old Dracula film. "A Train Roars" is a strong track , the beat really catches your attention, it could have been a great ending to the album, but of course there is one more track "Death at the Chapel "and it’s a decent closer that thrashes along, leaving you out of breath by the end of it.
For me, this is not the best example of The Horrors’ work. There is too much focus on the screaming vocals and a lot of the songs seem to blur together which makes it hard to truly enjoy the album. The important thing about it though was that it was so different in style to the other alternative bands that were dominating the UK chart at the time. This is a long way from The Libertines or Franz Ferdinand. The fact that they were given the opportunity to release something so different and then evolve and change over time seems to show the London scene as a more nurturing place than I would have expected at this time.

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Zimbabwe has been ranked among countries with both high natural disaster risk and lower resilience, according to the Institute for Economics and Peace (EP)’s latest ecological threat report.
The report analysed ecological threats in 221 independent States and territories.
It assessed threats related to food insecurity, water risk, natural disasters, and demographic pressure.
“IEP’s hotspot analysis compares the countries and areas facing at least one severe threat with the Positive Peace Index (PPI). A hotspot country is defined as one that is ranked in the bottom 30 countries on the PPI and also facing at least one severe ecological threat,” the report read.
Zimbabwe is among the 30 countries listed as “hotspots.”
The other countries at high risk are the Democratic Republic of Congo, Somalia, South Sudan, Afghanistan and Nigeria to mention just a few.
Zimbabwe’s water risk was classified as severe. This comes at a time when the country is battling to contain a cholera outbreak, which the government has attributed to lack of clean water sources.
“Water stress impedes economic development and food production, which further compromises the health and well-being of the population. It can also lead to social tension, conflict and displacement.
“In the ETR, water risk is measured by looking at the percentage of the population of the subnational areas that have access to clean drinking water.”
“Food shortages and water scarcity are interrelated, with a lack of water often leading to food shortages.
“To be food secure, people must have access to sufficient nutritional food that meets their basic preferences, and dietary needs and enough food to achieve an active and healthy life. Within the context of the ETR, food security comprises two elements: Availability and accessibility.”
Meanwhile, Environment, Climate and Wildlife minister Mangaliso Ndlovu has also said that Zimbabwe is exposed to the vagaries of climate change.
Ndlovu made the remarks during the People’s National Climate Change Conference held in Bulawayo on Wednesday.
Ndlovu said climate change had impacted negatively on the country as seen in recurring droughts and other natural disasters.
“Our rainfall season is becoming increasingly unreliable, with the upcoming 2023-24 season projected to be dominated by the El-nino phenomenon largely associated with drier conditions, below average rainfall and in extreme cases outright drought,” said Ndlovu.
“By what we are experiencing as a country we are disproportionately affected by climate change, we have had extreme weather events, destruction of property, loss of life and we want to make sure that we take everyone on board.”
Ndlovu, however, said government was trying to build resilience towards climate change.
“The climate smart agriculture initiative is a major breakthrough where we are building food security at household level, making sure that even when our climate is changing we improve food security at household level and the water harvesting methods that we have been doing seek to separate our agriculture from being rain-dependent,” Ndlovu added.
In 1992, several countries endorsed the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), a framework for international co-operation to combat climate change.


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3 Palms Grille
Prime rib on Tuesday night, delicious!
Too bight for a cozy evening
Everything was great except their horrid version of pineapple upside down cake-tasted like butane or nail polish remover. It was absolutely horrible. We let our waitress know and they removed the charge from our bill and hopefully they will take it off the menu! Awful! But we love the place and will continue to go there!
Great food, as always. Service was good, friendly staff. Can’t go wrong here.
I've had lunch at 3 Palms Grille several times and had a pleasant experience. However, brunch was a real disappointment. All three people in our party ordered the Crab Benedict. The waiter delivered the plates with no crab meat. He returned shortly thereafter with three small bowls of cold crab meat to add to our already lukewarm benedict. Very disappointing.
Food was great and service was professional. First time there and will return.
I’ve been to 3 Palms many times and this was by far the worst experience. Our server was slow, forgetful and just not efficient. The lighting in the restaurant flickered most of the evening with many different employees attempting to solve the problem. It was hard to carry on a conversation at our table because the lights were so distracting.
Service was horrible!!!! Food over priced and many errors with our orders. Highly doubt we will go back again. Worst part was dinner (2 cocktails & 2 entrees) $80 after they comp’d our salad and I still left hungry.
We have enjoyed many meals at 3Palms but our recent experience was enough to keep us from returning if we had been first-timers. The live music was awful — so loud it prevented conversation and painfully bad. After we were seated, we waited so long for service that I had to get up and ask the host to send someone our way. Then they were out of the entree one of us wanted, a steak. How do you run out of steak? We will give them another shot because of other pleasant times but I doubt our companions, for whom it was a first time, will want to return. We will take our vegan granddaughter there because we have found it to be the best at the beach for accommodating vegans.
Very nice evening on the patio.
A friend and I had lunch outdoors at 3 Palms. We both ordered the lobster roll with house-made chips and were pleased with our selection. The roll was toasted just right and loaded with lobster salad in a light dressing. The chips were crisp with no trace of grease. We complimented the meal with a glass of Carmenet Chardonnay which was reasonably priced as glasses of wine go (a little less than the retail price of a bottle). Service was pleasant and well-timed given that we were enjoying conversation and the nice day and not in a hurry.
We love the outdoor patio at 3 Palms Grill for meeting friends for dinner. It is a lovely area for dinner and we can easily converse with everyone at our table.
We always request the outside patio due to the high noise level inside the building. We would have difficulty hearing each other on the inside.
We have also been pleased with most of the menu items preparation and presentation. On this occasion we started with the Crispy brussel sprout appetizer which was fantastic. there were several spouts which were easy to share among our party of 4. We also had the truffle deviled egg appetizer which was good as well.
For dinner I ordered the diver scallops which were served on a bed of risotto and asparagus. The scallops we cooked perfectly and literally melted in your mouth. The risotto and asparagus were also cooked to perfection.
One of our party ordered the Lobster pasta which she raved about. She ate half and took the other half home as a leftover.
Another ordered the steak special which was a new york strip cooked to order. It was cooked properly and was tender and delicious.
Our only disappointment of the evening was the lack of seafood selections. There was no seafood special so the only fish available on the menu was salmon and grouper. My companion wanted to order fresh fish they were out of salmon. She ordered the grouper and shrimp as an alternative. The grouper was a bit dry and she was underwhelmed with the overall fish preparation.
North florida has wonderful seafood available year round and it is unusual to run across a restaurant in the area that does not have some type of local catch on the menu such as mahi, trigger, snapper and triple tail. Also it is hard to understand how the restaurant can run out of fish on a Friday night. That just really perplexed us.
We laike 3 palms and will dine there again but we hope they can add a little bit more seafood to their menu.
Over the summer 3 Palms was delightful. What changed? Server was very attentive but had almost the entire place to serve and hard time keeping up. Food quality shows a significant decline over cooked and cold. Can’t say that we will recommend or return again. Sad, since this had been a good spot.
Delicious food, had the scallops. They were good but I miss the pimiento cheese risotto! Please bring it back! Enjoyed our evening there as always!
Great food and service. Also a wonderful happy hour.
Lunch outside seating very pleasant. Service was excellent and food as well. Lobster roll, crab cake steak sandwich and fish sandwich all delicious.
We’ve tried this restaurant several times. It’s a hit or miss. This last experience was a miss! The restaurant was slow (Friday night) so one would think service would be great. However, quite the opposite. Service was terrible. Took forever to order, no returns to table during meal then took forever to get our check. We took friends who had never been before that won’t be going back. Food was decent but they were out of the salmon then again the cheesecake for desert!
Excellent service from Lange! Also, the food was outstanding!! We had cocktails, deviled eggs appetizer, beet salad, and the rack of lamb. All food items were prepared & served expertly.
Food was truly outstanding. I just had chicken and it was GREAT. I had the best wedge salad I've ever had. Now how can you make a wedge salad outstanding, 3 Palms Grille can!!
Loud, and service was slow.
I had dined here 3-4 times before with my family but this time invited 5 of my friends- it was the birthday of one of them- they loved the location and the food and said they would come here with their families.
Our waiter Daniel R. was very courteous, patient and professional and served us very well.
The food was very tasty and well prepared and plated very nicely- we all loved the watermelon, arugula salad.
I have one complaint though- the sofas are too soft and one gets lost in them and the chairs are not comfortable.
Other than that we loved the restaurant.
The Brunch is Fabulous!!
Food was wonderful! The grilled chicken on my beet and goat cheese salad may be the best I have ever eaten!!
Made reservations for a luncheon next month...
Server forgot about us? Busboy and maitre d" asked if we were being taken care of and went looking for our waitress Sarah. As it was obvious we were not being served the Manager Ritchie got involved and the rest of evening went well. Rated a 3 as this is unusual for 3 Palms. Service and food normally good.
Dependable go to place for local fare including fish. Recent menu changes for fall a nice surprise.
The Lobster was delicious! We would go there again for Lobster Night....
3 Palms Grille food was excellent and the service impeccable. I can’t say enough about the ambiance. You’ll have a wonderful experience too!
Salad special was fantastic and Daniel took wonderful care of us! Can’t wait to return.
We had a lovely evening with dinner outside with a pleasant breeze. The service was very good. My prime rib was excellent but my husband's was a little tough.
Nice setting for a course side meal. Food was good, service was excellent.
Great. Food, excellent service.
Wednesday Lobster night is a super value! Get there before 6:30 for Happy Hour prices.
Lovely place for a european style dinner! We had devilled eggs, tuna tartar and seafood pasta! All very tasty and good portionsize
Went early on a Sunday so pretty quiet. Good service and food. Too hot for patio for me but great view.
We enjoyed our dinner with friends on Saturday evening. It was our 4th time there and our friends’ first time. The food and service were very good. I had the lobster pasta-delicious! Great cocktails and wine menu.
Prices are reasonable
Happy hour adds to the experience
So glad I finally remembered to try this place for lunch on Saturday! Three of us enjoyed great food in a very quiet atmosphere and we’ll be back.
They don't take Open Table reservation so a complete waste of time. You guys need to get your act together.
Food was very good. Service was excellent. Our first time there and we will come back. We celebrated our anniversary and enjoyed the free dessert. The apple dish was very good. It should have had more apples in it though!!
We thoroughly enjpyed our experience! From the complimentary valet parking attendant, to hostess, to servers the service was outstanding. Entertainment outdoors by Chris Thomas band was super !!! Food was fabulous too. We were lucky enough to have a cloudy not so hot day, so sitting on covered patio outside was delightful. Can't wait to go back!!!

domain: food


text:
Is a new Google Nexus 10 on the way?
Amir Efrati, a reporter for the businessman's bible, sent out a tweet earlier on Wednesday, saying that he was told by Pichai that a new Google Nexus 10 should be expected in the near future. Just like the current version of the slate, the new version would be manufactured by Samsung. With the tablet running Android 4.3 at present, depending on when the revised version of the Nexus 10 would be released, Android 5.0 just might be debuted on the device.
source: @Amir_Efrati via AllThingsD


text:
McDonald’s Payroll Helpline quantity is 0208 700 7277.
Different simple methods to contact McDonald’s :
Name their Buyer Providers staff on +44 (zero)370 524 4622 through the hours under :
Monday – Friday: 8am – 7pm
Saturday: 10am – 4pm
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I doubt you might be an etymologist, so how are you aware they’re fly eggs, that are microscopic…oops. Flies cannot lay eggs quick sufficient from the time the burger comes off the grill to when it will get placed on the bun. If the fly one way or the other managed to put eggs on a frozen piece of meat, the eggs would look completely different anyway after cooking. The warmth from the cooked meat is simply too nice and would finally kill the fly if it landed. You say ‘your buddy’ purchased the burger then ‘we’ wish to sue.
You are not get together to the transaction so you’ll get no compensation even when the onions had been the truth is fly eggs. The burger wasn’t eaten and the vast majority of folks hardly ever take a look at the burgers beforehand. Your buddy had no loss aside from the price of the product which the shop in all probability changed. The one shady exercise is the story you and your buddy cooked as much as attempt to make some financial institution.


text:
Mundra : Tata Power through its wholly-owned subsidiary Coastal Gujarat Power (CGPL) has been relentlessly working towards promoting bio-diversity and environment conservation in and around its plant sites. In line with this commitment, Tata power ... Tata Group, 2 weeks ago
TATA POWER : #65533;s CGPL launches Bio-Diversity Club in Mundra - 4 Traders, 2 weeks ago
3 images for "cgpl"
Top News NTPC gets approval for Dulanga Coal Mining project NTPC , India's largest energy conglomerate is again in the news. The board of directors has accorded investment approval for Dulanga Coal Mining Project having rated production capacity ...India Infoline, 4 days ago
All forms of industrial growth are dependent on one or more ecosystem services. They can simulatenously negatively impact the ability of ecosystems to provide these services. Businesses therefore cannot afford to ignore their dependence, direct or ...International Union for Conservation of Nature, 6 days ago
The improvement in domestic coal availability, led by Coal India Limited, has lowered the coal import dependence for the sector during FY16 and in the current fiscal. (Reuters) Lower dependence on imported coal and tariff relief for affected ...Financial Express, 1 week ago Lower imported coal dependence and tariff relief for affected projects a positive for the power sector India Infoline, 1 week ago
Timeline for implementation still unclear for tariff relief under 'force majeure' for the imported coal-based power projects: ICRA
KOLKATA: An order issued by the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) approving tariff relief under force majeure for imported coal-based power projects of Adani Power Limited (APL) and Coastal Gujarat Power (CGPL) is a positive for the ...Economic Times, 1 week ago CERC relief for Adani, Tata postive; timeline unclear: ICRA Smart Investor, 1 month ago CERC's relief order for Adanai and Tata is positive, but implementation timeline unclear Economic Times, 1 month ago Tata Power Company Ltd updates on CERC order Equity Bulls, 1 month ago
In a move to ward off any threat perception at the impending Tata Power EGM slated for December 26, Tata Sons is planning to fortify its position. Discovering that it has no real heft on the board of directors, Tata Power is planning to correct this ...Financial Chronicle, 1 month ago Mistry woos Tata Power investors to stay on board ProKerala.com, 1 month ago Cyrus Mistry woos Tata Power investors to stay on board Economic Times, 1 month ago Edited Transcript of TATAPOWER.NSE earnings conference call or presentation 30-Nov-16 4:30am GMT Yahoo! Finance, 1 month ago
More from: , Daijiworldcom...and 3 other sources
Seeking support of Tata Power shareholders against promoters' proposal to remove him from the board, Cyrus Mistry has said that the company fared better than most of its competitors during his tenure. The company has called an Extraordinary General ...DNA India, 1 month ago Mistry seeks shareholders support to stay on... Dotemirates.com, 1 month ago Cyrus Mistry seeks shareholders support to stay on Tata Power board ZeeNews.com, 1 month ago Mistry seeks shareholders' support to stay on Tata Power board Deccan Chronicle, 1 month ago
12.30 AM. October 11, Mumbai International Airport. A CEO of a large Mumbai-based company was waiting, along with his wife, to take the British Airways flight to London, scheduled to depart at 0215. After aimlessly strolling through the duty-free ...Outlookbusiness.com, 1 month ago
8 December 2016, New Delhi, PTI Power regulator CERC has allowed Tata Power and Adani Power to pass through the losses suffered by them due to procuring high price coal from Indonesia to run their power plant. However, implementation ...Millennium Post, 1 month ago Compensatory Tariff Case: Power Regulator's Relief To Tata Power And Adani Power Bloomberg-Quint, 1 month ago CERC allows Tata Power, Adani to pass through high cost Business Standard India, 1 month ago Compensation to Tata & Adani: Regulator provides relief, reduces impact Smart Investor, 1 month ago
More from: , Livemint.com...and 1 other sources
Ousted Tata Sons chairman Cyrus Mistry made his written representation to shareholders of each of the six Tata group firms that have called for EGMs this month, seeking his removal as director on request from holding company Tata Sons. On Tata ...The Hindu, 1 month ago
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domain: economics


Hire Ballet Dancer in Croydon
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text:
Introduction: Zoetrope Animation in Your Hat With Gear Action
The Story Hat is a portable zoetrope that is concealed in a hat. What's a zoetrope you ask, well it's a old timey machine that allowed people to watch short illustrated animations. This instructable will explain how to build your hat and mechanical workings of the hat. Then its your job to create animations to play in your hat. You can also adapt and personalize your hat to fit your story telling needs.
Step 1: Building Your Story
What you need to do to make your own Story Hat is to download the instructional pdf file that is at the bottom of this page. This file includes the Story Hat's project diagram, cut out measurements, tools list, and materials list. After you have downloaded this you can watch part one and two of the Story Hat instructional video that will explains how to construct the hat after you have cut the shapes out from the project diagram.


text:
The Case for Reinvention of India
India is an ancient land but a modern nation: The battle to define what it stands for is about to begin.
It is common in the history of nations, such battles. Despite the lore, nations are neither perennial nor indispensable, it is only a rather modern construct to define the state with cultural traits and organise the society around it. India as a modern nation, which emerged sixty-five years ago out of a retreating British empire, was based on certain ideas grounded in the belief systems at the time of its creation: of a redeeming optimism at the end of great wars and at the beginning of the end of political imperialism, of the triumph for modern science and technology in beating back our Malthusian destiny and expanding our physical capabilities, and of the faith in human freedom. These lofty visions that defined India, and the nations born thereafter, had one crucial drawback: They were aspirational, and ignored the muddy realities of concocted nations emerging out of centuries of subservience.
Most new nations born around the time in Asia and Africa were weak states, which fell apart in a few years time: India did well to keep the state together, on the back of the tried-and-tested colonial administration machine, which the new Indian government decided to maintain uninterrupted. However, as a result, the Indian government remained as far apart from its people as the Raj was. The gap was hardly bridged by charismatic leaders and even the television, which transformed the country around Cricket and Bollywood movies. In fact, if anything, the new India of the small screen started to diverge more and more from the India outside, and the alienation of the polity was complete from the society.
What happened, therefore, in the last thirty years or so, is anathema to modern nation building: The emergence of sub-ethnic identities of regions, Tamils, Telegus, Punjabis, Bengalis and Gujaratis, so on and so forth, with distinct culture and polity, to fill the vacuum left by the distant state machine. The culture indeed has integrated, but around something that is alien and unrecognisable, and therefore, distant from identity: All India may sing around Night Ki Naughty Kahani and create various regional renditions of Kolaveri Di, but it is unlikely that any Indian will see these deeply unifying cultural apparatuses as INDIAN in any shape or form. In short, the culture may have emerged, but done so not as a high culture defining a transcendent nationhood, but rather in the popular form quite distinct from the national project (indeed, many in Bangladesh and Pakistan will sing around the same songs as well). It did not help that the political culture at the Centre failed to redefine itself with any more than a personality cult, leaving leaders with lineage ruling the roost: The modern national project faded into insignificance with the disappearance of the idea of India behind the regional facade, popular consumerist culture and leaders' personality cults.
All this is now reaching a crisis point. The Indian government in Delhi, that potent force that shaped the country for several centuries, the successor of the mighty Mughals and the British Raj, now seems impotent to govern. The virulent Hindu nationalism, anathema to the nation-building project, presents itself as an alternative, its power resting on the assumptions of suspension of democracy and fantastic reconstruction of the Indian constitution. The Indian demography, peaking at this right moment, presents the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity (or threat) of having a young nation needing direction: India should be mindful that in the Seventies, Soviet leadership failed to absorb its demographic peak by providing growth and nationhood, and perished as a result. The Indian businesses, largely content to remain politically balanced as long as they make money (The Economist lamented that 'never in history, so few with so much have spoken so little about what affects so many'), are increasingly taking their investments abroad, distraught with lack of progress at home and perhaps fearful of an implosion that may inevitably follow. And, the missing link that could make all this work, Indian education system, is failing to emerge from long neglect, confused demagoguery, lack of policy and leadership, to serve either the nation, or the industry, or even the students.
In summary, things are falling apart, and the Centre, the India created in August 1947, is no longer holding. The idea needs reinvention, not just with the economic growth story which was used to justify the project for last twenty years but now stumbling, but with a new polity and cultural identity that goes with it. In short, it is time to send the regional demagogues to the dustbin of history and build a new Indian national movement perhaps, first as a cultural event and then into politics. It is time to update Lagaan, the movie that launched the shining India almost a decade ago, and to bring it into the age of transparent corruption and stumbling growth. It is also time to see India not just in isolation but in the context of its world: A dynamic world where the lines between friends and enemies are blurred, where Asia is emerging as world's playground as well as the new frontier, and where, old loyalties matter little and relationships have to be built anew. In totality, we need a new narrative: What India stands for? It is time to write the Discovery of India all over again.

domain: sociology


text:
This spring, L’Oréal was ranked nr.1 in Equileap's 2017 Global Gender Equality Ranking, among over 3 000 companies (with a market capitalisation of over 2 billion USD) in 23 countries based on 19 gender equality criteria.
Equileap, a non-profit organization, published the first cross-sector ranking showing how well the world’s top companies, across all sectors and countries, perform on gender equality. Equileap was created in the light of independent research showing that gender diverse companies tend to produce higher financial returns. Equal pay and more broadly, equal opportunities at work are powerful levers to grow global prosperity.
This unprecedented ranking will help investors discover which companies lead the field in terms of gender balance so they can invest with a gender lens aiming to make a difference and a return.
Please listen to Diana van Maasdijk, Co-Founder and CEO of Equileap and Jean Claude Le Grand, L’Oréal Senior VP Talent Development and Chief Diversity Officer commenting on this ranking:
More from this topic
Combating LGBTQ+ discrimination: A longstanding commitment
To mark the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia, we want to underline our commitment to these communities, who are facing even greater discrimination during the Covid-19 pandemic.
L’Oréal announces the creation of its program L’Oréal for the future
L'Oréal Paris stands up against street harassment
As sexual harassment has been identified as one of the most important issues facing women and girls worldwide , L’Oréal Paris has decided to take action. And to launch a campaign to encourage women and men to intervene safely if they experience or witness street harassment.


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text:
A probe into possible squandering of public money in state hospitals revealed that ICU numbers were inflated by using a medical mannequin to keep at least one bed occupied so that patients could be referred to the private sector for kickbacks, Simerini reported on Sunday.
The revelation came a day after two state doctors were remanded in custody for eight days. Police on Friday arrested the head of the ENT department and executive director of Nicosia general hospital Yiannakis Kyamides in connection with taking backhanders to refer patients to a private hearing clinic in Nicosia.
Authorities also detained a second doctor, Vasken Shahbenderian, who worked at the state hospital’s ENT department too. A third arrest warrant was issued against another doctor who is currently abroad and was expected to return to Cyprus in the coming week.
According to Simerini on Sunday, authorities are investigating six cases of squandering of public funds by state hospitals.
One is being investigated by the auditor-general’s office, four by the health ministry for possible disciplinary offences, and one by the police.
All probes concern cases reported the last two years.
The case being investigated by the auditor general’s office concerns an intensive care specialist doctor who was allegedly giving false information as to the occupancy of his ICU’s beds so that patients could be referred to the private sector.
The paper said the probe showed that the data he provided on the bed occupancy forms did not match that of patients’ admissions and discharges.
According to Simerini, a health ministry official discovered in October, during an inspection at the ICU in question, after they were told that the unit had reached full capacity, that one bed was occupied by a medical mannequin. The explanation given was that it was being used for training, the report said.
As to the doctor under investigation, when asked by the auditor-general’s office why he was buying services from the private sector even though his ICU was not full, he allegedly said that he wanted to have available beds in cases of emergencies.
He was also reportedly mainly using the services of one private hospital, which was buying its supplies from a pharmacy owned by his wife, Simerini said.
The daily said that until October 2015, when the health ministry upped controls, the annual cost for the use of ICU services from the private sector, amounted to approximately €3m. Following the intervention of the health ministry, referrals to private sector ICUs were reduced it said.
The other cases include an investigation into a neurosurgeon and an orthopaedic doctor, both state doctors, who were allegedly receiving bribes from patients. A paediatrician is also reportedly under investigation for allegedly acting as a middleman between private companies offering health services, and whose shareholders included immediate relatives of his. It was also reported that while he worked in the public sector, the doctor had an active role in the management of those companies and participated in their meetings and conferences.
The health ministry said on Saturday it was determined to stamp out corruption.
“We await the outcome of the investigations and … reaffirm the health ministry’s determination to stamp out all corruption,” it said in a written statement.
Such events, the ministry said, highlighted the need for full reform of the public health sector because the current system did not promote transparency or help fight corruption.
In any case, and until full reform was achieved, the ministry would continue to display zero tolerance to corruption, the statement said.


text:
To bake a pizza with a pizza stone, do the following:
- Place the pizza stone in a cold oven.
- Preheat to 500 F. As soon as the oven heats up, the stone also heats up.
- Push the pizza on the stone.
- Bake until the cheese turns slightly golden.
- Take out the pizza and turn off the oven.
- When it cools down, brush the stone, do not wash it.
January 8, 2020
Why would you use a stone for pizza?
- Pizza stone is usually called a brick and is a flat cooking surface used for various baking purposes. The main use of stone for pizza is Distribute heat evenly So, all surfaces are cooked properly without having to change or turn anything you are cooking.
Do I need to preheat the pizza stone?
You want the stone to be preheated for at least 15 minutes before you try to bake the pizza to make sure the stone is good, hot and the crust is cooked properly.
How do you use pizza stone for the first time?
- Place the pizza stone in a conventional oven.
- Start with a cold oven.
- Preheat the oven (if necessary) with the pizza stone inside.
- Use a pizza paddle to place food on the pizza stone.
- Leave the pizza stone in the oven, at least until it cools completely.
Do you put oil on the pizza stone?
NEVER apply oil to a pizza stone. Unlike the smooth surface of cast iron, stone is a porous ceramic surface and does not dry like cast iron. Reduce the temperature to the desired temperature 10 minutes before placing the bread / pizza. Do not put it in water or apply oil, NEVER!
How does a pizza stone work?
Compared to the metal of the baking tray, the ceramic material of the pizza stone stores heat more evenly, and the porous surface removes water from particularly wet parts of the dough during baking. Also, if you preheat the stone, give the dough a strong initial heat, which will cause the crust to swell.
Can you use parchment paper on the pizza stone?
Just put a piece of parchment paper on the crust of the pizza and assemble the pizza. Then transfer the pizza (baking paper and everything) to a preheated pizza stone (I usually preheat the oven to about 475 °) and bake until the crust turns brown and the cheese is frothy.
Why does my pizza stick to the stone?
Pizzas that stick or peel on a stone baking tray can be the result of several factors: The dough is too moist. If the dough has a hole, the toppings will fall into the oven and can cause the pizza to stick. Be sure to check this while your pizza is still peeled.
Do you spice up the pizza stone
How to transfer pizza to pizza stone?
Can you use both sides of the stone for pizza?
2 answers. Many pizza stones are double-sided, if so, you can use any of them. The pizza can be glued to the baking stone by sprinkling plenty of fine corn flour or, better yet, medium-ground semolina under the dough so that it does not stick to the surface.


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Late Ven. Matara Kitalagama Sri Seelalankara Thera in conversation with military officials
Buddhist scripture condemns violence in every form. But exactly a month after Ven. Olande Jinarathana Thera’s body was found floating in the Rathgama Lagoon, the charred remains of another monk were found at the Nawana Cemetery in Kotadeniyawa earlier this month. While investigations are underway to determine the cause of events that led to the two incidents one may also wonder how ‘Ahimsa’ the primary virtue of Buddhism has been violated.
Given the current context, people, unfortunately, have instead of the middle path found their own paths, which they believe are shortcuts to make money and succeed in life. Despite religious discourses on detachment, people are getting more attached to material gains that eventually result in violence. However, sociologists draw several conclusions when studying these incidents, one of them being a possible trickledown effect of the ethnic conflict.
” Given the current context, people, unfortunately, have instead of the middle path found their own paths, which they believe are shortcuts to make money and succeed in life”
Personal grudge or blackmail?
Official records state that Ven. Uduwila Dhammasiri Thera of the Kodikanda Forest Monastery in Hanwella was killed by a group of people who wanted to collect ransom. Eight suspects have been remanded in connection with this incident including the mother of a novice monk at the Monastery and the spouse of a woman police officer. Postmortem examination reports have revealed that the monk died of suffocation though his charred remains were found at the Nawana cemetery in Kotadeniyawa a day after the tragic incident. Several media reports also claimed that blackmailing had taken place when the novice monk is reported to have complained of the harassment he experienced at the Monastery. But the Hanwella Police confirmed that there had been no complaints made in this regard. In addition to the arrest of the suspects, vehicles including a van, three-wheeler and a scooter were taken into custody. The next court hearing has been fixed for February 2 at the Avissawella Magistrate’s Court.
“It is because of these forest monasteries that these sensitive ecosystems are being protected. Some monks have also protested against the clearing of land and the felling of trees in protected areas and have even gone to courts.”
“Forest-dwelling monks are the unofficial guardians of forests but people have already placed a commercial value to our environment,” said Ven. (Dr.) Omalpe Sobitha Thera. “It is because of these forest monasteries that these sensitive ecosystems are being protected. Some monks have also protested against the clearing of land and the felling of trees in protected areas and have even gone to courts. So in that sense, there is a resistance against forest-dwelling monks and the government has to intervene and direct the relevant authorities to protect and safeguard and care for the wellbeing of these monks.
“The Aranthalawa massacre goes down in history as another bloody event that highlighted the resistance towards Buddhist ideologies. Nearly 33 Buddhist monks died during this incident”
From a sociological point of view, several explanations could be drawn in relation to these incidents. One explanation is that people are feeling less secure especially after the custodial killings that have taken place. “People have an issue about their own security,” said Prof. Kalinga Tudor Silva, a professor of sociology at the Peradeniya University. “Besides, monks are not being treated the same way as before. Reputation and attitude towards monks is on the decline.”
“Monks face institutional level issues and these issues are not exposed in the public domain. But if we take the Dutch monk’s case, there is still no justification for the incident” – Prof. K Karunatilaka
When asked whether these incidents of violence were a trickledown effect of the war, Prof. Silva responded in the affirmative. “The war was the only source of employment for the youth. Those who deserted had the training and access to arms. A proper study has not been done on Army deserters and what they did after they left the army. Although there is no direct link to these incidents, they could be indirect outcomes,” he said.
However, senior professor of sociology at the Kelaniya University, K. Karunathilake, who has researched on forest-dwelling monks in Sri Lanka, has a different opinion. “Monks face institutional level issues and these issues are not exposed in the public domain. But if we take the Dutch monk’s case, there is still no justification for the incident. It is the government’s responsibility to reveal the details. The Hanwella incident is a different scenario. Reports claim that several people asked for ransom. But in reality, forest-dwelling monks do not keep money with them. Therefore it has to be investigated further,” he said.
“Resistance towards Buddhist monks have emerged from time to time. Their role in safeguarding the nation and its Buddhism-centric ideologies have, in the past, been frowned upon by various entities, some foreign and some local”
Having collected facts and figures in relation to the way of life of monks since 1992, Prof. Karunathilake said certain monks have now realised the commercial aspect of popular Buddhism. “There are some who lead luxury lifestyles. On the other hand, certain temples own acres and acres of land under the Buddhist Temporalities Ordinance. Thereafter they rent out their lands to commercial businesses and collect hefty amounts. In some temples the chief incumbent has claimed individual ownership of the land. This needs to be controlled by a centralized body. As such, monks should not be greedy for money,” he said.
“Besides, monks are not being treated the same way as before. Reputation and attitude towards monks is on the decline” – Prof. Kalinga Tudor Silva
Policy level interventions
When asked about policy level interventions to arrest criminals in relation to these incidents, Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs Ministry Secretary Prof. Kapila Gunawardena said necessary action will be taken once they receive the final reports on both incidents. “We have given instructions to the relevant authorities to expedite the process. But we will come to a conclusion depending on the reports,” he said “Trial-at-Bar needs to be expedited soon and more deterrent punishment should be given to murderers irrespective of the person who has been murdered,” Public Security Minister Rear Admiral (Retd) Sarath Weerasekara said. “We have discussed this matter with the Minister of Justice.”
Forest dwelling monks are also known as the guardians of protected forest areas
When saffron robes turned red
Resistance towards Buddhist monks have emerged from time to time. Their role in safeguarding the nation and its Buddhism-centric ideologies have, in the past, been frowned upon by various entities, some foreign and some local. The earliest evidence of attacks on Buddhist monks is reported during the times of King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe. Thereafter, resistance against Buddhist monks was evident during the JVP uprisings. It has been recorded that at least 50 monks had been killed during the 1971 insurrection. This has continued during the 1988/1989 insurgencies as well. At least 680 monks have been killed between 1998 and 1990. The Aranthalawa massacre goes down in history as another bloody event that highlighted the resistance towards Buddhist ideologies. Nearly 33 Buddhist monks died during this incident. Few other isolated incidents include the killing of Ven. Thambugala Anandasiri Thera who resided at the Kutumbigala Forest Monastery and the killing of Ven. Matara Kithalagama Sri Seelalankara Nayake Thera popularly known as ‘Dimbulagala hamuduruwo’ who was killed by the LTTE. In June last year, Chief Incumbent of Galkanda Vijayadhamma Pirivena, Ven. Yatiyana Buddhananda thera was murdered. One suspect has been arrested in relation to this incident and the Kosgoda Police Crimes Division is carrying out further investigations.
(Additional reporting by Pushpakumara Mallawarachchi)
Disclaimer: Incidents of violence against Buddhist monks: When commercialism clouds the meditative mind - Views expressed by writers in this section are their own and do not necessarily reflect Latheefarook.com point-of-view


In early 1999, though, it was still a matter of "How do we get people to buy this damn FRC Corvette?" GM was searching for a way to recover the development costs of the FRC. Extolling the virtue of having a real trunk wasn't going to get the job done. GM ended up trying to convince the public that the FRC was the real performance car of the three body styles. It worked. At least it helped. You'll notice, though, that the FRC was gone with the introduction of the C6.
What you actually got
One of the most interesting items was what you got with your Corvette kit and what was left out. The idea was to leave out all the parts you didn't need and only include those parts that were necessary. Things got a little confused when some items like the front cowl panel were left out of the kit. When the racers went to buy one at the local dealership, they were told it wasn't available. There was a part number-but no part. When you had a half assembled Corvette in your shop, you really didn't want to hear that excuse.
The Bowling Green plant pulled a few of these cowl panels off the line to meet the needs of the 20 new Corvette kit owners. As these cars went together in 1999, a few more of these problems developed and were quickly solved by making some very special, very small parts runs. Can you imagine asking for 20 of anything in the GM system?
Another interesting problem in 1999 was that no one had really given much thought as to how the body panels would be shipped to the race shops. I imagine someone said, "We can just put the body panels in some cardboard boxes and ship them UPS. OK, next point on the agenda . . . moving right along here." Well, it wasn't quite that easy. One of the fun experiences was trying to assemble your Corvette while you kept one eye out for the UPS delivery truck. Keep in mind that no one had done this before. GM was trying something that had never been done before. It hasn't been done since, either, but that's a whole 'nother issue.
During the Corvette Challenge (1988 to 1989) era, you always got a fully assembled car. Even with Porsche, you got a fully assembled race car. This was the first time a major manufacturer had ever sold race car kits. OK, there was a time back in 1976 when Chrysler tried it, but the cars were pretty complete. This was nothing like the GM SPO effort. I suspect that the Corvette folks weren't even aware of the old Chrysler program. They certainly weren't about to drive across town and find out how it had worked out for Chrysler.
All of the chassis were assembled in the Bowling Green plant but pulled off the assembly line prior to what is known as serialization. In other words, these 20 cars did not have the standard 17-digit VIN. Neither were they counted into the 1999 model year production numbers. All of the cars were given a serial number from GM Motorsports. They ran from 0000001 to 0000020.
When you purchased your car, you not only got a bunch of parts but you got access to a whole bunch of GM engineering talent. The information was made available to all the teams without any favoritism. This was a total team effort on the part of GM Motorsports. They even took Danny Kellermeyer's C5R kit car to the wind tunnel. The results of the wind tunnel test were made available to every car owner. They then went so far as to bring Gib Hufstader out of retirement to act as a liaison between the teams and GM Motorsports. You could find Gib wandering around the pits at the World Challenge events offering support and trying to answer a multitude of questions.
The engine package for these kit cars was slightly different with the utilization of some ASA parts. Actually, the kit car program got the ASA camshaft and valvesprings before the ASA teams got them. The ECM was also an ASA part as was the engine wiring harness.


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The La Brea Tar Pits in the heart of Los Angeles, California are world famous for their preservation of Ice-Age mammals, especially the iconic, extinct megafauna such as saber-tooth cats, dire wolves, mammoths and mastodons. What is less known, is that the unique asphaltic preservation of past life at La Brea includes much more than mammals, but entire ecosystems of Los Angeles from the Late Pleistocene through the Holocene spanning the last ~57,000 years. While much attention has been given to the fauna, relatively little is known about plant life during this time. Fossil plants preserved at the La Brea Tar Pits include seeds, wood, leaves, needles, cones, pollen and phytoliths. We will detail how these ancient floras reveal a rich history of climatic and environmental change in Los Angeles and Southern California over the last several millennia leading to the formation of our modern day ecosystems.
Join scientists Dr. Regan Dunn, Assistant Curator at La Brea Tar Pits and Museum, and Jessie George, UCLA PhD Candidate, to explore the ancient flora of Los Angeles and learn about the fascinating field of paleobotany.
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Down GAA have announced the death of legendary footballer James McCartan Senior.
McCartan was part of the Down team that won consecutive All-Ireland titles in the 1960's and one of the most recognisable footballers in Down's history.
The Count broke the sad news on Saturday afternoon that the legendary player had passed away.
Taking the social media, Down GAA said: "We are saddened to learn of the passing today of James McCartan snr. He was an iconic figures on one of the greatest teams, winning 2 All Ireland medals and 2 Footballer of the Year Awards.
"Down GAA extends our sympathy to his wife Marie and his family."
McCartan created history as he was the first player to win the coveted Player of the Year award twice and was a dominant force on the GA pitch.
He was part of the great Down GAA team that won back to back All-Ireland titles in 1960 and 1961 and would serve as Down manager and won a national league title in 1983.
In a further statement from the county board, it reads: "Today our GAA world in Down is a poorer place with the loss of a man who was renowned throughout Ireland for his swash buckling style as centre half forward on the Down Team of 1960 and 61.
"As part of this iconic double All-Ireland winning team, his became a household name and his football abilities were respected and feared by opponents. He was part of the great half forward line with Seán O Neill and Paddy Doherty that played a key role in the historic breakthrough of 1960."
And the statement added: "James McCartan was a man who was passionate about Down. He wanted success and he was driven as a player and a manager to seek out success.
"He would take great pride in the achievements of his sons in the county jersey; they were the third generation to wear the Red and Black and all displayed the qualities of the men who had gone before.
"James was one of those people who helped make us the proud. He was an iconic figure in the annals of Down GAA, and was known throughout Ireland by generations of people who marvelled at his exploits on the playing field. Wherever Gaelic Games are played, the name of James McCartan will be synonymous with Down and with a team that brought so much joy and happiness to so many people.
"He was a legend in the true sense of the word, who had the heart of a lion. His passing has robbed us one of our greatest sons, someone who loved his football, his county, his club, and most of all his family."

domain: history


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Gov. Ned Lamont is expected Thursday to ease pandemic restrictions further on business and other activities, despite modestly rising infection rates and an imminent flu season.
But to advance Connecticut’s reopening in this climate, administration officials say, they have to be ready to show what it will take to reverse course — and quickly.
The problem, though, is that sifting through COVID-19 metrics is far from an exact science. The challenge, they say is to find the indicators that will head off problems, protect lives, not shackle the economy needlessly, and — hopefully — make sense to the public.
“At the end of the day, the governor has been consistent,” said Josh Geballe, Lamont’s chief operating officer. “We are leading with public health.”
Administration officials declined to say which restrictions might be eased Thursday. The options include raising occupancy limits in restaurants and stores and reducing space requirements between seats in restaurants and theaters, among others. Lamont could also allow bars to reopen, but he expressed strong opposition to that during the summer.
But when it comes to identifying which health statistic could trigger an end to dine-in service at restaurants, or in-classroom instruction in schools, Geballe said, the question isn’t that simple.
“We slice and dice the data, looking at it by age groups, high-risk communities and other factors,” Geballe added “but it’s just not all about metrics. We also take in a lot of feedback, from public health and medical experts, researchers” and stakeholders in business and government.
Average infection rates are key
Still, if there’s a backbone to any potential Lamont methodology for rolling back Connecticut’s reopening, it lies with infection rates.
Not long after the pandemic struck in March, the governor frequently discussed the importance of the seven-day average infection rates. State health officials compile daily test results, dividing total positive infections by all tests completed that day. They then find the average of that day’s results and those of the previous six.
Connecticut’s seven-day-average infection rate for much of the summer was below 1%.
After an August outbreak in Danbury and smaller surges in the vicinity of a Norwich nursing home and Central Connecticut State University, it popped above 1% in September but has remained below 1.5%. It stood at 1.2% through Wednesday.
By comparison, much of the Midwest, Rocky Mountain region and Deep South have been above 10% for months. Lamont has ordered visitors from these states to quarantine for two weeks.
But while that’s a sound trigger for travel restrictions, Lamont said during a briefing Monday, when it comes to other activities “the 10% infection rate is a big number. … I think that’s too high.”
The governor added he would be more focused on “something half of that,” especially if it was accompanied by a clear trend.
In other words, if the seven-day infection rate exceeded 5%, and had been part of an escalating trend, it might be time to increase restrictions.
Department of Public Health Commissioner Deidre Gifford noted the 5% mark is a key indicator for caution with the World Health Organization.
“It’s concerning when we start to see it go up when we’re still doing plenty of testing,” Gifford said during Monday’s briefing. Connecticut consistently has been completing more than 10,000 tests per day.
Broadening the range of health care metrics
But Geballe said it’s not as simple as saying a 5% infection rate automatically changes everything about schools, businesses and other key aspects of life in Connecticut.
Hospital admissions, which have been down for months, need to remain low.
Climbing rates among the elderly, or in high-risk communities like nursing homes and prisons, also are caution flags, he said.
Johns Hopkins University published a series of coronavirus management metrics for cities in June that emphasized assessments not only of infection rates, but of the health care industry’s capacity to respond quickly to negative trends.
The availability of intensive care unit space and ventilators is crucial during a crisis, but equally important are infections among health care workers and supplies of protective gear.
Johns Hopkins researchers also recommend communities develop some assessment of public compliance with safety measures, specifically the use of masks.
Lamont last week announced a series of fines ranging from $100 to $500 for residents who violate the mask mandate in public areas. But the governor didn’t cite any statistical evidence for the new penalties, simply indicating a concern about growing infection rates.
Jesse Martin, vice president for the nursing home division for the state’s largest health care workers union, SEIU Healthcare 1199NE, said Connecticut needs to resume tracking infections among all staff assigned to managed care communities.
Connecticut mandates that nursing home operators compile this information. But Martin, said state health officials aren’t reviewing the data regularly to assess trends.
A COVID spike in a nursing home population could be indicative of a problem in the facility, but it also could be a sign of a surge in coronavirus infections in the greater community of which health officials aren’t aware.
“Our members don’t live in the nursing homes,” Martin said. “In the end they’re part of the community.”
But Geballe said the union’s assertion is wrong and that the administration regularly analyzes and publishes data on coronavirus cases among residents and staff at nursing homes and assisted living facilities. “It is among the most closely watched information that we collect each week.”
It’s not just about health care numbers
The Lamont administration also could gain valuable insight by looking more closely into Connecticut’s economy — provided officials are ready to analyze more than just health care data when considering coronavirus restrictions, said the leader of the state’s largest business lobby.
“We were having a lot more conversations with the state in the spring than we are now,” said Connecticut Business and Industry Association President and CEO Chris DiPentima. “Businesses are more engaged than ever to give their feedback.”
And that feedback, unfortunately, is that many businesses, especially restaurants, hotels and others in the hospitality field, won’t make it until next spring without some form of relief, be it government assistance or an easing of restrictions, he said.
Deputy House Minority Leader Vincent J. Candelora, R-North Branford, echoed DiPentima’s concerns, saying all health care metrics must be considered — but not in a vacuum.
With a state unemployment rate that’s effectively 15%, business restrictions can’t be considered this fall or winter without a full analysis of the pandemic’s economic damage to Connecticut.
“I don’t think we even know the magnitude of it,” he said.
But Geballe said the Lamont administration is weighing all aspects of the pandemic.
The governor announced efforts Wednesday to expand a state anti-layoff program that already is preventing more than 23,400 workers from receiving pink slips.
And even when health care policy objectives are being established, Geballe added, they aren’t driven solely by statistical analysis.
State health officials interact frequently with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other federal agencies, as well as governors in other New England and Mid-Atlantic states.
And those intergovernmental conversations aren’t just about coordinating actions, Geballe said, but also to share knowledge and — frankly — learn from each others’ mistakes.
Lamont suspended plans in late June to reopen bars in July, despite declining infection rates here, because COVID-19 cases had spiked in too many other states that had opened bars.
The governor also has drawn on his strong ties to health care experts such as former Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Scott Gottlieb, bioethicist Dr. Ezekiel Emanuel, a respected bioethicist and oncologist, and Yale epidemiologist Dr. Albert Ko.
Their advice, Geballe said, carries as much weight as any health care metric.
“You bring that all together, at the end of the day, there is no mathematical formula for these decisions,” Geballe said. “It’s a constant balancing act. There is no playbook for this.”


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Melanie Little, a former figure skater, has lived in Timmins, Montreal, Toronto, Los Angeles, and Vancouver, and currently resides in Ottawa. She has worked as a tour guide, teacher, museum guard, bartender, dance instructor, stage manager, concierge, and a tulip promoter. Her stories have been published in Scribner's Best of Fiction Workshops (1998) and Outskirts: Women Writing from Small Places (2002).
In this brilliant debut collection, Melanie Little emerges as a bold new voice with ten smart stories that explore and explode the concept of confidence in all of its contradictory meanings, suggesting a very fine line between trust and treachery. In Little’s world, a Grade 6 schoolgirl grapples with having a left leg that is four inches longer than her right leg, a father once bursting with temerity descends into gambling addiction and leaves a legacy to his daughter in the form of a $500 casino chip, and a disgruntled saleswoman induces self-inflicted highway robbery while a celebrity photographer finds desperate assurance in stalking his subjects.
Singing with brightness and despair, the deliciously wacky and beautiful tenor of these stories rings true, but also surprises. In the indomitable spirit of confidence, Little reveals how vulnerable and delicate we all really are, and in the process joins the vanguard of young Canadian urban writers. She is a hugely talented young writer to watch.
Confidence is an exciting, complex work. It's full of ambition, energy and thoughtful scope. While despising the all-too-familiar phrase, 'deceptively simple,' it does apply here in the best possible way, because, as Little gains full control of her craft, she could very well become the Alice Munro of our generation...Little's ability to weave outside the novel form is strong and Confidence is worth your hard-won, book-buying bucks.
...Confidence is overwhelmingly successful.


Election 2016: Welsh Lib Dems' Kirsty Williams in 60 seconds
In the second of the leaders' 60-second interviews ahead of the assembly election, BBC Wales found out what Liberal Democrat Kirsty Williams's dream job was.
She spoke to social media producer Elise Jenkins.
06 Apr 2016
- From the section Wales