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Michael Britton, Ed.D.
In the wild, a predator treats the physical life of another as food. What matters is that his own strength is maintained, not that the other is dead. In society, economic predation is concerned only with increasing its own resources and position, improving its own future, and it does not matter that the result is that others lose their resources, the future they’d hoped for. It does not matter that the conditions of their lives grow measureably harsher, more insecure, or that they themselves become demoralized, unable even to confront what happened.
Not all who have this impact on the lives of others intend to be predators or think of themselves as predatory. But the activity is predatory whenever the vulnerability of others is seen as an opportunity to be exploited. By contrast, nurturing sees in vulnerability a hint of a stronger, more flourishing life that might develop; the hopefulness of a nurturer lies in that possibility. Nurturers love to see anyone fragile, vulnerable or young growing stronger, clearer, more resilient, more capable, wiser, more able to love in this life, more responsible, better at being good and effective human beings – and like to contribute to this flourishing of life possibilities when they can. Psychologists think of this on the individual level, but we can speak of this on the historical scale as well: Nurturing likes seeing other societies, communities and cultures being resilient, growing in confidence, taking more effective care with their lives and their future, being happier – and likes to contribute to that flourishing as a country or a culture when they can.
Nurturing involves a measure of devotion to the growth of other individuals and other societies, as well as one’s own, a measure of sacrifice. Just as a mother’s nursing means sharing of her own body so that her baby grows physically and emotionally stronger, nurturing means sharing know-how, wisdom, access to opportunities and to connections, when that sharing can help another’s future open up. Nurturing encourages another’s spirit to dare to try, their determination to grow better as a person, community or country in knowing life’s joys, loving well, learning life’s most important lessons, becoming responsibly productive, and taking steps toward maturing as good human beings. Mature nurturing requires a feel for, a practical understanding of, what it means to do human life well, as a person, a community or a country.
There is a cost to organizing economic life around growing one’s own wealth while leaving others weakened. It impoverishes the soul, leaving little scope for one’s heart or for the wish to nurture others along in life, to give generously, to awaken resilience and joy in others, to encourage them to take better care with their own lives. When the intention centers on profit, our relationships are narrowed and our therby humanness diminished, the capacity for empathy is blunted or corrupted and life is hollowed out. If the intention is to encourage life’s growth in others (and in one’s self), the world of business, investment and regulatory arrangements can come alive with empathy, generosity and the joys of doing well together. The world can be more fruitful.
To give an example on the level of business-to-business practice, a carpet company paid for research into which dies were biodegradable and therefore contributed to sustainability and which were not. Upon getting the results, they called their competitors together for a meeting in which they gave the competitors this proprietary information, in detail, for free, out of a sense that the more of us doing right by the earth, the better for all of, thereby encouraging the capacity of the other firms to do good, as well as the larger good of society and the planet. (The Next Industrial Revolution) In a similar vein, open-sourcing gives away programming for the common good. And crowd-sourcing has been used to solve medical and scientific problems by asking specialists, and anyone else around the world able to contribute, to help solve complex medical and other problems – without pay. People have proven eager to help, and breakthroughs have been achieved.
Mostly, however, those people are free to do this thanks to steady incomes from jobs in the regular economy. So what about business in the regular economy? Corporate charters have traditionally been written so that management is required to produce profits for stockholders, making it illegal to put other objectives ahead of profit. There is a movement to write corporate charters such that social or ecological outcomes are the mandate instead, reflected in Mohamed Yunus’s concept of “social businesses.” Then there is the question of how to help people shift their actual intention and behavior. One key lies in the reward structure of the business or bank. As is well known, the financial sector, by incentivizing risk-taking and externalization of vulnerability, increased both exponentially. By contrast, in the Grameen Bank, Yunus and his colleagues have undertaken rewarding managers for focusing on encouraging their clients to improve their lives. “In the World Bank, a staff member’s success is linked to the amount of the loans he has successfully negotiated, not the impact his work has made. We don’t even consider the amount of loans made by a staff member in our reward system.” What is considered in regard to a manager includes instead making sure “all the children of all his borrowers are in school.. [and] all his borrowers move out of poverty. (Yunus)
In the Great Game of nation-states, it can be very difficult to look with compassion and generosity on other countries and want to see them prove resourceful in making a good life for themselves, a life marked by mature humanness, responsible effectiveness, and happiness – especially if this might diminish the profits taken by one’s own country and its businesses or investors. Consider the matter of advising another country to sell off its state-owned enterprises. Western economic advisors have often strongly advised other countries to sell off their state-owned businesses out of predatory intent, not infrequently accompanied by coercive threats at times when those countries were in vulnerable positions, vulnerability being considered an opportunity for forcing them into taking actions they did not wish to take, i.e. an opportunity to violate their making up their own minds and reaching decisions on their own as to what was in their own best interest. But that has not always been the intention. There were times when consultants wanted to see another country prosper and thought that selling off state-owned businesses would free up the businesses to become more dynamic while unburdening the government. They approached their role as advisors with certainty that this would work and must be done. But in nurturing humans as they chart their own destiny, a measure of uncertainty is often more appropriate in both parties as the path forward gets figured out. Nurturing seeks to catalyze the other party’s ability to think through the resources they have to work with and how best to use them. It takes a certain humility and respect for others, a looking to see them come alive on their own behalf, rather than pursuing an experience of one’s own expertise. Deciding in advance what is best for another country often fails to take into account matters that only those in that culture are able to factor into account when deciding the best way forward for that country. While there are times others need to listen to expertise, it’s also the case that the vulnerable can overvalue the strong and thereby give away discovery of their own genius. As it has happened, selling off state businesses and resources has often meant a give-away of resources at bargain rates, under-financing a country compared to the money it could have made by the sale -- while reducing the government’s resources and thereby impairing its ability to provide for its own people in future times of difficulty. State-owned businesses are among the resources a country has created over decades and, while they may or may not be great resources, they are amongthe resources out of which the country and its government must forge their future. It is they who need to take the measure of what best to do with those resources in making their future.
In a similar vein, corporations, consultants, banks and international financial institutions should be encouraging countries to be very careful in taking loans, so as not to mortgage their future against a prosperity that may or may not materialize -- and not to open themselves to sudden inflows (and outflows) of capital. Many countries have been drawn into mortgaging their economic future despite a high risk of default and consequent discovery that they had mortgaged their sovereignty as well. (Perkins) Nurturers want to see governments exercise genuine concern and care for their own country. When China imposed strict controls over the investment of capital from outside, it was demonstrating national self-care, something a nurturer would be glad to see and would have suggested in the first place. A nurturing stance looks to see governments, banks and businesses limiting the inflow of investment from the outside to what is useful and repayable, so as to responsibly regulate their own vulnerability against the whims of financial markets. In addition, because nurturing is about helping others improve their lives, it gravitates to long-term relationships, not overnight quickies. That means capital investments will not and cannot suddenly be withdrawn at the whim of financial markets. Having a reliable future depends on this, and that’s a blessing nurturers want to see others experience.
At the same time, investors must exercise responsible self-care by making investments with careful and sustained attention to those being invested in – which means a heavy investment in pursuing their transparency and the soundness of their books. Corruption on the receiving end must be easily discoverable along the way. It must also be actively looked for. Exuberant wishful investing and ignoring the possibility of being deceived are reality-based, and nurturing pays close attention to the realities of life. Investors are more likely to focus on those realities if they are the one who bear the vulnerability to risk. Investing cannot be an irresponsible give-away, nor can it be an overexcited pursuit of bonanzas. Genuine nurturing involves a rising to responsibility on the part of both parties, in the interests of a better life for both. It’s in real life that people grow happier and more effective or not; that’s what investment should concern itself with.
On the level of the global economy, free-trade has not turned out to be the nurturing policy it was expected by many to be. Subsidies for wealthier countries and their industries, and regulations on imports from the more vulnerable countries, have increased the wealth of the more powerful at the cost of impoverishing the economic liveliness, self-sufficiency and sense of pride and control over their own fate on the part of the vulnerable. When a party grows stronger by means that leave another weaker, predation is taking place whether it is so conceived or not. An economics born of generous, nurturing intent is obsessed with seeing other countries, other classes and other peoples getting their own economic liveliness going, and with seeing them formulate a future for themselves that is sustainable, responsible and happy.
Nurturing, like predation, involves a relationship between a party that presently is more powerful and one that is more vulnerable. The intention in nurturing is that the gap in power and dignity in the relationship grow smaller because the more vulnerable party grows in perceptiveness, clarity of purpose and effective conduct of their own lives – including vis a vis the more powerful party. Frequently this means nurturers face situations wherein a more vulnerable party wrestles with how to protect itself from the greater power the nurturer actually holds. Mature, experienced nurturers regard it as a good thing when the vulnerable set boundaries against them and assert their own integrity with dignity and skill. The more powerful party’s best use of its own power at those moments lies in encouraging this growth in the vulnerable of the confidence to live by their integrity, by respecting the newly developing voice of the vulnerable rather than becoming defensive and perpetuating the asymmetry of whose judgment really counts – or setting out to keep the vulnerable off balance and beholden by sewing self-doubt or seeing to it that efforts at national or class self-care fail.
At least sometimes nurturing lies in getting out of the way and letting others develop relationships of their own choosing. This does not mean indulging the vulnerable in any direction they want to take. The lines a nurturer looks to see respected by the newly-assertive are the lines that separates integrity from predation, and self-care from exploitation. Nurturing consciously intends to grow the capacity to nurture in others, not their capacity to become predators.
On the level of the global business system, there can also be cross-class nurturing, as when entrepreneur-inventors find it personally meaningful and rewarding to get to know people in poorer sections of the world, asking them what would make their economic lives work better, and working with them as equals in figuring out how to make that happen, given the constraints of capital that characterize their lives, whether this be amid rural or slum poverty. Paul Polak makes a case for capitalists, with their know-how and connections, setting out to empower the vulnerable in a very different manner, as summed up in Wikipedia:
Three principles guide Paul Polak Advisors…
• 1) To have a sustainable impact on global poverty, businesses should treat poor people as customers and producers rather than as recipients of charity;
• 2) Businesses can generate positive returns for investors by serving consumers in base of the pyramid populations with average household income in the range of $1–$2 per day; and,
• 3) By changing how they design, price, market, and distribute their products, businesses can make a transformative contribution to ending extreme poverty, while making profits for their investors.
I mention this also to point out that in setting out to implement a nurturing intent in the complex economic world that exists today, we all start from wherever we are right now. The question is what impact any of us set out to create in our encounters with the other peoples, countries and classes– and what impact we actually have on them. The tide can be turned, from predation as a systemic imperative to strenthening each others’ lives, and it can be turned by all of us no matter where we are starting from -- if we make our resourcefulness available to others trying to grow their own. This includes those who have benefited from a system that organizes behavior and thought so that predation takes place but who, upon understanding matters, would prefer to engage in nurturing from here on out. Those who are sitting on large masses of capital have choices to make not just about which projects will likely work out but about the kind of world they want to nurture into existence: one marked by high inequality between the successfully predatory and the very weakened vulnerable, or one marked by deliberately fostering equality and encouraging responsible autonomy and self-care on the part of other countries, classes and peoples.
In pursuit of a nurturing economic liveliness around the planet, how do we foster nurturing intention and skill in those who are wealthy – and in those who are predatory? Nurturing a capacity for nurturing across the global economic system is another layer in the transformation of our shared existence from behaviors that exploit to behaviors that grow all of us, including masters of predation, in a deepening of insight, a maturing in the intentions brought to relationships, an interacting such that the vulnerable of this world grow less vulnerable, more spirited, more resilient and skilled – and we all become more reflective on what matters in life and how best to make a life we all truly cherish. And yet often the powerful are so immersed in systemic practices that are predatory in impact that they can’t stop themselves. Stopping them requires delegitimizing what they are doing, while mobilizing the power within the reach of the vulnerable to organize life independently of the powerful so that their power becomes meaningless and collapses. The vulnerable of the world should exercise the self-care to organize an alternative world rather than wait for the powerful to change this one. (Sharp)
Taking from others to enhance our own lives creates a world that merits apprehension rather than trust. Surviving predation discourages integrity and generosity. Genuinely caring that others find their integrity, their resilience, their path into the future, their growth into maturity, makes for feeling safe and less stressed, putting everyone at less risk of metabolic syndrome, the disease complex that marks preoccupation with predation and its risks. The more the policies and decisions that make up our economic liveliness reward caring for each others’ lives as well as our own, the safer it will be to trust the world we live in enough to genuinely relax and feel the joy of living. Nurturing intent, not shrewdness, makes trust and joy worthwhile, safe and fruitful.
Eisenstein, Charles. 2011. Sacred Economics. Evolver Editions. Berkeley, CA.
Klein, Naomi. 2008. The Shock Doctrine: The Rise of Disaster Capitalism. Picador.
The Next Industrial Revolution, DVD. Earthome Productions.
Patel, Raj. 2010. The Value of Nothing. Deckle Edge.
Perkins, John. 2005. Confessions of an Economic Hit Man. Plume.
Polak, Paul. 2009. Out of Poverty: What works when traditional approaches fail. BK Currents.
Sharp, Gene. 1993. Dictatorship to Democracy. Green Print Housmans.
Stiglitz, Joseph. 2012. The Price of Inequality. W.W. Norton. New York.
Yunnus, Muhammad. 2007. Creating a World Without Poverty. PublicAffairs. New York.


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The first week of the trial of Derek Chauvin – the former Minneapolis police officer charged with the murder and manslaughter of George Floyd – was largely taken up with the evidence  of eyewitnesses to the incident. As we saw in a previous post , the State called several eyewitnesses, or bystanders, who gave evidence about what they had seen and heard during the incident.
As we also saw, there are rules which apply in relation to witness evidence. The primary purpose of evidence is to prove facts – facts which are relevant to any issue in the case. In the case of Derek Chauvin, the State – the prosecution – must prove several facts if they hope to secure a conviction of either murder or manslaughter. These include, for example, facts about what Derek Chauvin actually did during the incident. For example, did he place his knee on George Floyd’s neck? How long was his knee on George Floyd’s neck?
In this case, the eyewitness evidence in relation to these kinds of matters is probably not as crucial as it often is in criminal trials. Why? Because the entire incident – before, during, and after - was recorded on a number of devices – including mobile phones, street surveillance cameras, and police body worn cameras. Much of the video evidence is of very high quality.
It is important to remember that the general rule in a criminal trial is that witnesses should only give evidence about facts that they saw and heard with their own eyes and ears. What a witness should not do is give an opinion about what they saw and heard or speculate about things.
However, there are sometimes facts that the prosecution in a criminal trial like this must prove which require expertise. For example, in the Derek Chauvin trial, the prosecution alleges that Derek Chauvin’s actions caused the death of Mr Floyd. In this case, as we know, the defence claims that the cause of Mr Floyd’s death was connected with the fact he had taken illegal drugs. The prosecution alleges that it was the action of Derek Chauvin in placing his knee on the neck of Mr Floyd which caused asphyxiation (a lack of oxygen).
In this situation, eyewitness evidence about the incident does not help. In order to establish the cause of death, expert evidence is required. Expert evidence is one exception to the general rule that opinion evidence is not permissible in a criminal trial. Expert evidence is an expression of opinion, but one based on expertise, skill, and knowledge in a particular area. In the Derek Chauvin trial, for example, the prosecution called Dr Andrew Baker, the medical examiner who performed the autopsy  on Mr Floyd. They also called expert evidence in relation to the force used by Derek Chauvin during the restraint of Mr Floyd, and whether it was 'excessive'. As defence counsel Eric Nelson pointed out, sometimes the police have to undertake procedures which are 'awful but lawful' (meaning that to a bystander they may look bad but which, in reality, must be undertaken). Whether the jury feels Derek Chauvin's actions fall into this category ultimately is a matter for them to decide.
In English law, there are several considerations before a court will permit expert evidence on an issue in the case. These include:
· Does the issue need an ‘expert’ at all? If a fact or matter is one within the knowledge or understanding of the jury, an expert will usually not be required.
· Is the person who a party wishes to call really ‘an expert’ in this area? In other words, are they sufficiently qualified in an area to be able to express an expert opinion about it?
· What is the basis for the expert opinion? This will include possibly difficult evidential issues in an area called ‘hearsay’, which we will look at in a future post.
There is good reason to be cautious before a jury relies on expert evidence, however compelling it may seem to be. In the past, several miscarriages of justice have occurred on the basis of expert evidence. In recent years, convictions have been overturned, for example, in cases involving ‘sudden infant death syndrome’, in which expert evidence was called and relied on by a jury.
 In the United States, this is called ‘testimony’. In England, we would normally say ‘evidence’, and witnesses give evidence.
 An autopsy is a medical examination of a person after death, with the aim of trying to establish the cause of death.
© Cambridge Legal English Academy 2021

domain: law


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September 23, 2023 @ 3:00PM
Mountain America Center
1690 Event Center Dr, Idaho Falls, ID 83402
KidzFest is a special Look Up Tour event tailored just for children, featuring bounce houses, face painting, and games. The program will include live music by Rend Collective (a Christian folk-rock band whose hits include, “Build Your Kingdom Here” and “My Lighthouse”), an interactive, Gospel-centered video presentation called The Quest, and a short message of hope from Will Graham.
This free event is geared toward kids (toddlers through elementary school) and their families.What to Know Before You Arrive, Parking Info, and Allowed Items

domain: entertainment


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Suggest treatment for nerve injury after shingles
Residual nerve damage
Thanks for the query
Few patients suffer from nerve injury after shingles, especially the peripheral nerves which causes pain. However most often it settles down in 8 weeks and very rarely lasts more than that. Since you are having pain for more than a year now it calls for testing to find some other cause for nerve damage.
Here is what you should do
1. Continue Lyrica for the pain
2 Meet a Neurologist for nerve conduction study to know the extent of the damage
3. Get your Vit B12, Thyroid and sugars tests soon. These are the most common reasons for nerve pain
I hope I was of help, if you have any further queries please get back to me
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- Suggest remedy for flow of semen in urine
- Are androgen receptors always present in androgen target tissues by birth?
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domain: biology


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1. Blueberry line - Technical-Flow
A hybrid trail that combines the smooth riding style typical of flow with technical sections and a rapid succession of parabolic turns. A trail that passes through picturesque clearings and woodland. A treasure hidden among the trees that will make you love mountain biking even more. Watch out for the blueberry eye!!
2. Hutr Dream - Flow-Trail With Air-Time
Finished in the summer of 2015, the H-Dream (Hutr) is a fast route characterised by wide parabolic turns and uneven areas, which ensure fantastic air-time for expert bikers.
3. Coast To Coast - Scenic Flow-Trail
With its 6km of bends, leaps and smooth stretches, Coast to Coast is a trail that combines flowcountry features with an epic excursion offering a spectacular view of the valley of Livigno. The trail connects the two cable railways of the Mountain Park.
4. Roller Coaster - Pure Flow-Country
A trail with real flowcountry features: a sequence of bends, parabolic turns and leaps with a slope always below 10° and a pace that allows you to almost never touch the pedals and brakes. A real roller coaster with breathtaking views at the top and fascinating landscapes in the wood.
5. S-way - Flow Connection With Jumps
It’s a very fast trail with jumps that is drawing a giant S into a wonderful natural-teather (in winter there are the ski slopes of Fontane Vetta). It starts from the second part of trail Coast to Coast and it’s taking bikers back to the middle-station of the cable-way Carosello 3000 of San Rocco area joining the last section of the H-Dram (Hutr).
6. Hairy Cattle - Scenic Transfer
A trail connecting the top of the cable railway Livigno Centro (Rifugio Costaccia) and the middle station of the cable railway Carosello 3000 of San Rocco. It is a particularly scenic cycle trail, which owes its name to the crossing of the meadows where the Highlander breed of cattle pasture.
7. Madonon - Scenic Trail
A cycle trail that reaches the famous statue of the Madonna delle Rezze and the Alpine shelter of Involt da li Resa, one of the most breathtaking sights in the entire valley. Along the route, you can also enjoy a view of the Bernina Range glacier. Warning: the trail that goes down towards the Plascianet is highly dangerous and is therefore forbidden to mountain bikes.
8. Federia Trail - Freeride Trail
A single trail that, from the top of the cable railway Carosello 3000 of San Rocco leads down to the heart of the beautiful Val Federia. The trail is rather fast-paced, steep in certain parts and with crossings in bumpy areas. After reaching the level road, it flows into the dirt road that runs through the entire valley and exits in the Calcheira area.
9. Federia Strada Bianca - Country Road
A road accessible to four-wheel drive vehicles, which, from the top of the cable railway Carosello 3000 of San Rocco goes back down the Val Federia amidst beautiful and picturesque pristine landscapes. At kilometre five, near the Agriturismo Alpe di Federia, the road meets the single-trail (see above) and continues smoothly through the Alpine pastures towards the exit in the Calcheira area.
10. Panoramica - Country Road
A wonderful scenic route that runs through the valley halfway up the slope, passing the old farmhouses (which, in fact, are called “li Tea”). The trail can be conveniently accessed near the middle station of the cable railway Livigno Centro and you can proceed up to the Ponte Lungo in the Forcola area. Along the route there are a few roads leading into the village and to the starting area of the cable railway Carosello 3000 of San Rocco.
Ask for your BikePass, to ride freely on Mottolino, Carosello 3000 & Sitas!
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domain: geography


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The singer has a storied list of famous exes
Stop the presses - Taylor Swift is single again and her breakup with summer squeeze Conor Kennedy will undoubtedly inspire plenty of material for her next album. While the heir to the Kennedy clan waits to see if he's on the receiving end of the singer's lyrical assaults as boyfriends past have experienced, Jake Gyllenhaal is currently sitting in the line of fire as the star of her latest album Red. Click through the gallery to see which famous men inspired several of Swift's songs over the years.
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Another day, another rumor. This time John Travolta supposedly enjoyed a six-year gay romance starting back in 1981.
Date 22 hrs ago, Duration 1:07, Views 12435

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"To dance is to reach for a word that doesn't exist,
Aren't the little ballerinas adorable? Ballet, tap dancing, jazz ~ there are lots of different hygge ways to dance your way through winter.
I took dance lessons, starting at about 6 or 7 years old, and kept going all the way through high school. I loved it so much that I took several years of dance lessons as an adult, too.
My favorite is jazz dance and I would love to take lessons again someday!
Did you ever take lessons? And do you still love to dance, if you did?
During this 21 days of hygge extravaganza, I have encouraged you to stop what you're doing and dance for a few minutes as a way of dancing with winter. I offer videos here for inspiration, but what I want most is that you dance, even if your favorite is something else, entirely.
I think of dancing as a fun way to exercise and a hygge winter strategy because the best choice of exercise is the one you keep doing. So if it feels fun to do, maybe you'll keep dancing all the way 'til the end of winter. :)
Do you remember dances coming out when you were in school, and then everyone would try to learn them? I remember the hustle, the freak, the rock, the charlie brown and several others.
Was there one that was your favorite? Or one that was hard to learn?
I remember having a hard time with the rock, believe it or not. It seems so easy now, but I just couldn't figure it out, and had to get my friend, Jacci, to help me. She put on a song called "Shake Your Groove Thing" (remember that one?) and I mimicked her until I got it.
I think it eventually became one of the most fun ones I learned to do! What was your most fun dance?
Well today, I want to offer a pop culture dance that I suspect has made the rounds at every school. In fact, I think of its basic steps as the kind you can do with any song even if you don't think of yourself as a good dancer.
When people tell me they can't dance, this is what I teach them to do.
In it's latest incarnation, it's called The Carlton, named for the Carlton Banks character on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.
Here's another version of this dance ...
You know you want to get out of your seat and do it, too! :)
See you next time!
Hi, I'm Jeanine
Author, tea matchmaker, self care coach and lifestyle blogger. I help women who want more time for tea breaks & self care simplify, and find time for both. More here.

domain: artistic


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We are saddened by the recent loss of some good friends to the museum, Hugh Neeson and Nelson Faso. Please read more about them and see photos here.
When the United States entered World War I in April 1917, the Aviation Section of the U.S. Army Signal Corps had fifty-six pilots. At the war’s end 18 months later, over 11,000 pilots had been through primary training in the United States and most learned to fly in a Curtiss JN series aircraft, or “Jenny”. […]
The Lunar Module that landed the Apollo astronauts on the Moon had two stages, a descent stage for the landing and an ascent stage for the departure. If rocket engine on the descent stage failed during landing the crew could fire the ascent engine as a backup to safely return them to lunar orbit – […]
The museum was pleased to host the 2023 FAA Charles Taylor Master Mechanics Awards on September 6. The honorees included: Jack BushJohn ChapmanMichael McGuire The FAA Charles Taylor Master Mechanic Award is named in honor of Mr. Charles Taylor, the first aviation mechanic in powered flight. The Charles Taylor Master Mechanic Award recognizes the lifetime […]
Thanks to all who came out to our 25th Anniversary Hangar Dance on August 26, 2023, especially our primary sponsor, Moog. We had a great time dancing the night away with the Alex Rene Big Band and our friends from Swing Buffalo!
We had a wonderful virtual visit from Apollo 13 Astronaut, Fred Haise, on April 15, 2023, to celebrate NASA’s finest hour. This was a special event. Fred shared stories of his career as described in his book, Never Panic Early, and answered questions from the audience. Here is a link to a recording of his […]

domain: history


text:
Win a self-cleaning litter tray (1 of 3) worth £155 @ Yours
PRODUCT: Litter tray
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domain: pet


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Toyama has described Gravity Rush as a cross between Japanese comic culture and the works of French author Moebius in its graphical styling and characters. The reality is closer to a Japanese take on the Sucker Punch title Infamous. Gravity Rush is an open world and it is played in episodic chapters. Gravity control has a Pilotwings feel to it, whilst the combat seems almost Zelda-esque, yet the amalgamation of these influences creates a truly original experience.
You play the character Kat who is a girl with amnesia. She lives in the town of Hekseville on the dying world of Auldnoir. Kat awakens and is granted her gravity defying powers by her feline companion, with the goal of rebuilding the world of Auldnoir and to recover her lost memories.
The powers bestowed upon Kat allow her to reach unattainable places; she can float, run around the sides and ceilings of buildings and even carry objects and humans along with her. That is not to say that she is one clawless feline when faced with the bad guys in Gravity Rush - The Nevi, monsters that arrived with the gravity storm over Auldnoir - and it’s up to her to dispatch them back to where they came from.
Kat has many methods at her disposal to help fight the Nevi, one of which is the gravity kick which can be executed by activating gravity and targeting via the gyroscope to perform a kick from any distance or angle - the further away she is, the higher the damage on connection. The gravity slide is another powerful method of attack available - both edges of the Vita screen are touched while shaking the screen left to right or up and down. The resulting carnage can only really be compared to a full 360 degree Liu Kang (of Mortal Kombat fame) kick all over the screen. Combat is handled well in the game and standard attacks are carried out using only one button, but when combined with gravity elements, the results would not look out of place in a Street Fighter game. The main reason this works so well is that the control methods are well thought out, fluid and intuitive; a small video will play when discovering a new move, showing how to execute it. Not content with allowing one control method, an interchangeable alternative will be offered so that players can adapt to what suits them best. The camera is also excellent and is very quick to follow the action regardless of the angle or speed asked.
When a Nevi is beaten they drop a crystal and these come in two different flavours. The blue crystals help replenish Kat’s gravity meter (In certain modes), although this does regenerate over time. The more valuable red crystals are used to power up abilities and gain new special powers. This risk reward method of progression is commonplace in open world games and it does suit Gravity Rush well.
There are many varied styles of play on offer alongside the main story of the game. Time attack battles are included which can generate a lot of crystals (and trophies), alongside fetch quests with a twist. Also on offer are navigation trials which are very similar to the flag mini quests of Ezio Auditore in Assassins Creed. Gravity Rush really does provide a full open world experience for the handheld format, with the tasks on offer being suitable for a ten minute bus journey, or a two hour main quest session.
Aesthetically, Gravity Rush is without comparison on a handheld system (and yes, this includes Golden Abyss). Graphically the game is simply stunning and would not look out of place as a current Playstation 3 title; the very colourful palette in its cel-shaded style really does give the title a unique look and in the 14-16 hour main quest there was not one instance of slowdown or tearing. The similarly stunning score is penned by Kohei Tanaka who is famous for composing the scores of anime such as One Piece and Sakura Taisen (which really needs to be enjoyed through headphones), and has great synergy with the action on screen, giving an epic feel to Kat’s plight. One of the most interesting features of Gravity rush is the way the story is progressed. Interactive storyboards are utilized which can be read by either pressing a button or swiping the screen like a real comic book - the most interesting feature being that by tilting the screen you can look in to the frame of the story from different angles which may reveal some pleasant surprises.
Fans of survival horror may be disappointed that Toyama has moved away from the genre and into pastures new, but what he has given us is a unique and beautiful open world title that could not be replicated on any system other than the Playstation Vita. Aesthetically stunning and an absolute joy to play whilst using every trick the Vita has to bestow perfectly - Gravity Rush really must be experienced to be believed. Gravity rush is an absolutely sublime experience much like the first time a young horned boy entered a foreboding fortress. It displays a freshness seldom seen today. Is Gravity Rush worthy of the hype it has received, being touted as a “killer app”? When you play it, we think you will agree it is.
+ Graphically Stunning
+ 14-16 Hour Quest and Extras
+ Completely unique
- Levelling can be a little tiresome
- When it's finished
Developer: Japan Studio
Other Versions: N/A
Version Reviewed: Japanese

domain: game


text:
UV resin art is a process of creating highly strong UV protected glass that can be etched, painted, stained or cut by hand. It is a very unique process in the sense that it combines the strength of urethane with the durability of glass, without sacrificing any of the quality of either one of them. UV rays are emitted from the sun’s UV rays as well as from many other sources including glow sticks, torches, and kites and glow-in-the-dark paint. UV rays have the ability to penetrate through most non-metallic materials including urethane.
UV resins belong to a category of synthetic resins made from the ultraviolet energy of the sun, usually a light or ultra violet, or devices which use UV rays as their source of power. UV resin cures quickly in a matter of minutes and is used for bonding, sealing and protecting materials. Resin artists use UV curing techniques to make complicated shapes such as birds, crabs and flowers and using simple patterning techniques to create items such as fans, pillows, tableware and lampshades. UV resin art can also be created by using the UV curing properties of liquid acrylic paints or liquid urethane paints combined with other tools such as UV curing torches and grinders. The most common UV resin art pieces are paintings and sculptures made of urethane materials like acrylics and urethane foam.
When starting your own UV resin artwork project you need to make sure that the resin is properly cured, that is, it should have a gloss, a matte finish or an anti-glare coating applied to it. The most recommended uv resin art application technique is to allow the resin to dry flat on an oven tray before using it. If the item has already been cured, then carefully smooth it out, being careful not to break the cured surface when doing so. You can apply uv resin products such as acrylic art stamps, decals, stencils and paints with the appropriate uv curing equipment and supplies available from your local craft store. The three main types of UV curing equipment are uv curing panels, uv curing rollers and uv curing guns. Most modern equipment provides automatic shut off capabilities that ensure the device is safe to use even when there are no active uv resin products in use.
If you are new to UV resin casting, you should look into some of the different types of UV resin models available. This article will give you information on how to make uv resin molds so you can practice your skills and become more familiar with the different types of UV resin models out there. UV resin is especially great for beginners as it is easy to work with, is smooth and very thin, and does not need to be combined with a UV hardener. Some of the most common UV resin models that you might have heard of are:
One type of UV resin art that you can do is called uv resin casting. This is done by pouring UV resin into an acrylic mold. The UV resin will harden in the acrylic mold and create a solid piece that looks just like glass. There are also different ways how to make uv resin art, such as blowing or pressing the UV resin into a mold. If you are going to blow the uv resin into a mold, you need to know how to make uv resin art using a blow gun. The blow gun makes it easier to get the UV resin into the mold because you only have to blow the UV resin bubbles, not the entire mold.
One important tip when learning how to make uv resin art is to make sure that you get the resin to cure properly before you begin casting. Many people have had problems with uv resin casting because they waited too long to cure the resin. When you go to try out the uv resin model, make sure that you let the resin cure for at least forty-eight hours before you begin. Some people wait even longer, but this should be enough time for the uv resin to harden and start acting like a solid piece.
UV resin arts and crafts are a wonderful way to make some homemade or hand crafted items that can be protected from the damaging rays of the sun. This is a great method to use for things such as pillows, mugs, and glassware that may normally get ruined by the ultraviolet rays from the sun. There are some tips that will need to be followed when learning how to make uv resin molds. The first step is to obtain your own UV resin machine. You can either rent one from a craft store or you can go online to find the best price on a UV resin machine of your own.
Once you have found the proper UV resin machine, it will be time to learn how to properly fill the uv resin mold with the correct amount of glue. You should always begin by pouring the proper amount of glue into the mold so that there is no air in the mold. Next you will want to place the UV resin inside of the mold and then carefully apply any clear UV resistant coating to the entire piece. Then you simply wait for it to cure, which typically takes around forty-five minutes. Once it has completely cured, then you will be ready to remove the UV resin from the piece.
While learning how to make uv resin molds can take some time and patience, you will discover that these types of molds are actually very easy to work with. Typically the tools that you will need are a UV curing of resin gun, a UV curing of resin tool, and an epoxy resin tool. If you are not sure how to use one of these tools, you can always learn how to make uv resin sculptures or items by finding a local artist that specializes in using this type of equipment. Once you learn how to make uv resin sculptures that you can proudly display on your porch, then you can stop asking how to cure acrylics and begin planning what new projects you might like to try out.
If you have ever been to a garage sale or a flea market and you see an interesting painting, then chances are good that the person who picked it up was looking for how to make epoxy resin art work. In fact, if you look at a lot of the art that is on display around the country, it was probably created with an epoxy resin on the surface. These are paints that have been specially mixed to have the ability to resist the weather and the elements. They come in a variety of different hues and these include bright and vibrant colors like red, blue, yellow, green, orange, white, and purple. In addition to the paint itself, these paints also come in a variety of different mixtures.
As far as how to make epoxy resin art work, you really have several options. First, you can go the easy route and just purchase a container of paint and some clear coloured tape. Just make sure that you leave some room to be able to remove the paint easily when it is needed. You can then start to mix a variety of different paints together in various combinations and these will give you the opportunity to create some very unique and original designs. However, if you want a more elaborate project, then you might want to consider purchasing a set of disposable nitrile gloves so that you can practice touching up your artwork without worrying about harming yourself.
Another way to create an original design in your artwork is to purchase some gold glitter. There are many companies that sell kits that allow you to mix and create your own gold glitter, so you can also do this if you would like to try your hand at creating a true gold masterpiece. When you go to purchase the kit, keep in mind that the kit comes with a special nozzle that will let you put the glitter on easily and apply it in a consistent manner so that the colour stays where you put it. This is another way to ensure that you create a piece of art that is truly one of a kind.
Epoksi reçine ile sanat yaratmak, her yaştan çocuklar için son derece eğlenceli ve heyecan verici bir aktivitedir. Çalışmalarını kağıt üzerine veya metal, cam gibi diğer yüzeylere uygulayabilirler. Epoksi reçine sanatının nasıl yapıldığını öğrenmek için bazı malzemelere ihtiyacınız olacak. İhtiyaç duyacağınız en önemli araçlardan biri de bir boya fırçasıdır. Yerel sanat ve el sanatları mağazanızdan oldukça ucuz plastik boya fırçaları alabilirsiniz.
İhtiyaç duyacağınız diğer bir temel araç da bir kap ve bir karıştırıcıdır (sentetik olmayan reçine tipi kullanıyorsanız). Birden fazla proje yapmayı planlıyorsanız, çift amaçlı bir kap ve karıştırıcıya yatırım yapmak isteyebilirsiniz. Malzemelerinizi topladıktan sonra başlamaya hazırsınız! Başlangıç seviyesindeki basit, altın tonlu resimleri yapmak için biraz boyaya ihtiyacınız olacak. Boya fırçaları bunun için mükemmeldir, çünkü tekrar tekrar kullanılabilirler ve bir zanaat mağazasından veya sanat malzemeleri deposundan ucuza satın alınabilirler.
Ayrıca, şaheserinizi yaratmak için ihtiyaç duyacağınız boyaları ve katkı maddelerini içeren birkaç farklı türde epoksi reçine sanat kitleri de vardır. Akrilik katkılı bir kit seçmek en iyisidir çünkü bunlar daha ucuz ve çok yönlüdür. Bu kitleri sanat malzemeleri depolarında ve çoğu sanat mağazasında bulabilirsiniz. Bu kitlerin en popüler markalarından bazıları DevaCarta ve Mad Art’tır. Evinizde bu belirli markalar yoksa, benzer kitleri çevrimiçi olarak makul fiyatlarla bulabilmeniz gerekir.
If you are a member of the arts and crafts group or are a beginner, then you have probably heard of epoxy resin art. You may have seen pictures or even tried your hand at creating some of it on your own. Whether you are a weekend hobbyist or a professional painter, learning about epoxy resin art can help you make some great creations. Here’s how to make epoxy resin art:
Before you can start creating your own art, you need to first find a supplier of paint that sells the product. Look for a supplier that offers the product in a large enough quantity to meet your needs, but not too big. In other words, do not buy too many bags of paint at once because it may be hard for you to mix it all up properly. There are many places on the internet where you can find an Amazon discount code for Epoxy Resin Art, but checking price listings is a better way to save money. On the other hand, you might check price listings at your local art supply store as well.
After you have found a good supplier for your epoxy resin art, you will want to decide what type of product you are looking for. Usually this includes a mixing container, a fine paint brush, and either a sprayer or roller or a painting base. The painting base is used to put the pigment on the canvas, while the sprayer or roller helps you apply the color evenly throughout the painting.
Epoxy resin art is becoming more popular. It is a type of art that you can do yourself, or if you want to have it professionally done, then you can have a professional epoxy artist do it for you. If you would like to do it yourself then there are a few different options that you have. The first choice you have is which type of material to use. This will depend on the type of effect you would like to create, what colors you want, and how detailed you want the mural to be.
As far as colors go, you’re pretty much free to pick as many as you like. There is even an assortment of liquid epoxy resin art paints that are appropriate for airbrush painting. You can use airbrush colors, liquid paints, and even cloth paint. Another thing you may wish to do is apply a second coat of paint to make sure the first coat holds and looks right.
Other things you can do with epoxy resin art is add text to your artwork, use contrasting shades of color, create designs, and a host of other decorative techniques. One other thing you can do is to use a special crystal clear epoxy resin art coating to give your artwork that added professional look. When applying this coating, it is recommended that you work in an area that is ventilated and has a good lighting source. Once you’ve applied the coating and allowed it to dry, you’ll have a masterpiece that not only looks great but is also durable and attractive.
Epoxy resin arts techniques are by far one of the biggest and coolest mediums to use because it’s versatile and can create both 2D and 3D artwork. In regular acrylic painting, epoxy resin bonds or solidifies your layers, giving them more depth and vibrance with different color combinations. With epoxy resin art, you can paint on the same subject, creating an abstract masterpiece that has never been done before. These types of art usually involve combining different kinds of media like paints, acrylics and different types of stains and oils, which if done correctly can really turn your ordinary paintings into works of art that can only be described as amazing.
There are a lot of different techniques when it comes to making epoxy resin art but the most popular and effective method is the two-stage method where first a thin layer of resin is brushed onto the surface, then the second layer is added on top to enhance the look and depth of your artwork. One of the best methods of creating these types of paintings is through the two-stage technique where first, a thick and dark color is brushed onto the canvas then a lighter color is added on top to enhance the visual appeal and definition. It is always recommended to practice safety measures while using this technique so that you can ensure that you do not hurt yourself or others when painting with this medium.
As with any type of art, always follow safety advice carefully and wear protective gloves when painting with epoxy resin. This medium is composed of toxic chemicals, so it is absolutely vital that you only paint with a high quality liquid paint that is non-toxic and suitable for use in an area that is sealed off from the outside world. When you are finished painting, always remove all of the resin with either a brush or vacuum cleaner. This will ensure that your artwork is protected and safe from the weather as well as other elements such as dust. Epoxy resin is durable and flexible but should never be exposed to extreme temperatures as they will crack and melt. There is a great variety of art supplies and equipment on the market today so if you would like to start an epoxy resin painting business then you will certainly find what you need on the market.

domain: design


text:
This preventative eye care exam (much like your yearly physical) is recommended at least once a year, depending on your health needs. In it, Dr. Sawyer will access the health of your eyes and also your best visual acuity to provide you with an Rx for glasses if needed. Learn More.
This is a separate exam solely for the purpose of matching contact lenses that will work best for your visual and comfort needs. Learn More.
At Gregory Optical, Dr.Sawyer will help you determine if you are a good candidate for LASIK. He'll also provide you with information about your options and outcomes. Learn More.
If your eye conditions require surgical intervention, Doctor Sawyer has a number of excellent specialists or surgeons that he feels confident in their ability to give you the specialized care that's needed. Learn More.

domain: medical


text:
A group of underworld gangsters including Notorious criminal ‘Angoda Lokka’, who is said to have been involved in the attack on Prison bus at Kalutara has been arrested in India.
Seven suspects including underworld figure Aruna Udayashantha alias Samayan and two prisons officials were killed, when a bus carrying prisoners was shot at in Ethanamadala, Kalutara on February 27.
Police launched a massive man hunt following the incident to arrest the culprits. Eight persons were arrested on the charges of aiding and abetting these underworld figures to carry out the attack.
Police suspect that this group may have been involved in the recent attack on Police Narcotics Bureau officials in the heart of Piliyandala town which claimed two lives including that of a 13-year-old student of Rathnawali Balika Vidyalaya, Colombo.

domain: sociology


text:
Casey Croucher/Recorder Staff TOP LEFT: Carson Shaffer pets Passat the dairy calf at the 4-H Agriculture Awareness Day. TOP RIGHT: Beth Claes teaches Barkley third grade students what horseshoes are during the 4-H Agriculture Awareness Day. BOTTOM LEFT: Michael DeAngelo, left, pets an alpaca as owner Adele Cromer, right, of Windswept Alpacas in Sprakers, holds the animal's reins.
By CASEY CROUCHER
Greater Amsterdam School District third graders got a taste of local agriculture Friday during the 4-H Agriculture Awareness Day at Shuttleworth Park.
"We do this event to educate the kids," 4-H Youth Program Assistant Shannon Dygert said. "We want students to know where their food and fiber come from so they can be educated about how the process works. We also bring in different animals so that students can be exposed to that aspect of agriculture. Everything we talk about today is tied into their school curriculum."
Dygert said the 4-H program through the Cornell Cooperative Extension recruited people to set up stations for the awareness day. There were 12 stations for third graders from Barkley, Marie Curie, McNulty and Tecler elementary schools.
Friday's stations had a variety of different topics including alpacas, flowers, a dairy calf, goats, a horse, vegetables, maple syrup and other interesting topics to explore.
"It's nice that we have so many different topics because the students get to learn a variety of different topics," she said. "It's even better when the stations let the students get hands-on."
A popular station with the students was Passat the dairy calf from Dellavale Farm in Pattersonville. Students got to sit down and pet the calm calf in the grass.
Carson Shaffer, a Marie Curie student, said he wanted to keep the cow.
"I would have her as a pet," he said.
Dygert said the event is good for the students and the people manning the stations because they both learn something.
"The students ask a lot of questions, and they're great questions because they honestly don't know the answers and they're eager to find out," she said. "The people teaching them love it. They love how the kids are so interested and it's a learning experience for them because they learn how to teach these kids."
There will be another 4-H Agriculture Awareness Day at Fonda-Fultonville Elementary School June 13.

domain: news


THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kerala State Cooperative Bank (KSCB) will make efforts to bring down the non-performing assets (NPAs) of the bank from Rs.489.81 crore to Rs.300 crore during the current year, KSCB president Koliakode N. Krishnan Nair said here on Thursday.
Mr. Nair told reporters that steps had already been initiated to recover loan arrears to the extent possible during the current year. The NPAs of the bank amounted Rs.489.81 crore or 22.9 per cent of the outstanding loans as on July 31, 2008, and as a follow-up to the steps taken by former president Kadakampally Surendran, it has been decided to bring it down to Rs.300 crore. Mr. Nair clarified that he was carrying forward the steps taken by Mr. Surendran and had not taken any decision without the consent of the board.
The recovery proceedings had not been progressing as expected owing to a variety of reasons.
He said many of the loans extended during the period of the previous director board led by the United Democratic Front (UDF) between 2001 and 2006 “in violation of norms” could not be recovered for lack of clear addresses of the loanees or proper guarantees. Besides, many State-level apex cooperative institutions had not repaid or renewed the loans and the arrears stood at Rs.168.90 crore as on July 31, 2008. The institutions included Hantex, Coirfed, Marketfed, Rubbermark and Rubco and the bank had approached the government seeking help to recover the arrears, Mr. Nair said.
The bank’s deposits had grown beyond the targeted level during the current year. The deposits stood at Rs.3,924.94 crore against the target of Rs.3,650 crore for the year.
He said the bank had not received any refinance assistance from the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) for the current year. This had affected the agriculture lending programme.


text:
Roly’s Tomato Scone Pizza
Prep time: 20 mins
Cook time: 20 mins
225g self-raising flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
50g chilled butter, cut into small pieces
100g mature Cheddar cheese, finely grated
4 tbsp low fat plain yogurt
4 (cocktail or classic) tomatoes, sliced
6 plum or cherry (on-the-vine) tomatoes, halved
1 tsp mixed dried Italian herbs
50g mature Cheddar cheese, grated
basil leaves, to garnish
Veg Portions / Serving: 1
Recipe donated by British Tomato Growers Association for Veg Power. Recipe and photography by BTGA.
In this tomato scone pizza recipe, the pizza base is made with scone dough, flavoured with grated mature cheddar. It’s topped with juicy tomatoes, herbs and grated cheese for an Italian inspired dish with a true twist.
Preheat the oven to 200°C, fan oven 180°C, Gas Mark 6.
Sift the flour, baking powder and salt into a large mixing bowl. Add the butter and rub it in with your fingertips until the mixture looks like fine breadcrumbs. Stir in the cheese.
Combine the yogurt and milk, then stir just enough into the scone mixture to make a soft, but not sticky dough. Draw the dough together with your hand, turn onto a surface sprinkled with a little flour and knead lightly for a few moments.
Roll out the dough to a circle about 30cm in diameter. Place onto a lightly greased baking sheet. Top with the tomatoes, herbs and grated cheese, then bake for 15-20 minutes, until golden brown.
Serve, sprinkled with basil leaves.
Kids in the kitchen:
Let kids take the lead with this pizza. Show them how to measure out the ingredients, sift and mix the dry ingredients, and use clean hands to rub the butter in. Let them pour in the yogurt and milk and use their hands to bring it all together – kids love this bit! Help them flour a clean surface and tip the dough out then show them how to gently knead the dough together by pushing it with their hands. Help them roll out the dough and grate the cheese, then give them the sliced tomatoes and let them do the toppings. They can tear the basil leaves from the plants and add them to the pizza once cooked.

domain: food


The "simple command framework" (SCF) is an easy and efficient method to write software that fits the SOLID principles. Mainly the Open-Close-Principle is implemented in an easy art and wise. The different steps of a process or functionality will be encapsulated in so called command objects. The different command objects will be processed in a defined order. This framework follows the Command Design Pattern.
The framework uses functionality of Java 8 meanly default implementation of interfaces and in some minor cases lamda expressions.
The Idea of the framework
Command object is a java class which provides an
execute() method to proceed a piece of implementation of a business logic. Usually the business logic isn't implemented in the command itself but in a service layer which provides business logic.
If you use a dependency injection container like spring you can use spring IoC to inject the service classes you need. You can use spring as well to couple different commands to a chain via spring configuration.
The simple command framework has three modes so far:
- Create a command chain and execute it. The execution is done either in the same order the commands are inserted in the so called command container or they can be executed by a certain order (priority). The aim of this case is to execute functionality which is straight forward. In this case the
execute()method of the command container should be called. To use this behavior you implement the
- The command chain can also be executed as the chain of responsibility pattern. For this every command decides if the problem is solved or if another chain should be called. In this case the
executeAsChain()method should be called. To use this behavoir you extend the
- The command chain can be executed as a process as well. In this case the executed command object has to be decided which actual command should be called next. In this case the
executeAsProcess()method should be called on the command container. To use this behavior you extend the
Along the chain or process you can bypass a parameter object to share data among this chain. If you don't need a parameter object you can pass either null or
DefaultParameterObject.NULLCONTEXT to mark explicitly, that no parameter information is needed where
DefaultParameterObject.NULLCONTEXT is actually a
The simple command framework comes with a couple of examples to show how to handle everything.
The framework is hosted on github. Check out on https://github.com/simplecommand. It is 100% test driven developed, PI-tested and has no technical debt (ideally). Feel free to write tests which are not passed or contribute your own code. Contact firstname.lastname@example.org. The framework is free software under the conditions of GNU Public Lesser License.
Why another framework
Old ideas – divide and conquer.
Cutting software in little pieces is an old idea. There are design patterns as command-, chain of responsibility- or strategy pattern which follows the same idea. What is so important on these frameworks?
- A complex problem is split into easy or complicated problem. Each piece does a simple thing.
- The simple little peace can be tested easily.
- You can provide a parameter object passing around all pieces to get some glue to fit them together.
The simple Idea is to split each call in a method into an object (encapsulating algorithms in objects). There are several other frameworks which offers an implementation of these problems but they are rather old so I just started to implement my own one. What is the difference: It is 100% test driven developed and has code coverage as well as a mutation coverage of 100%.
The Architecture of the simple command framework
The architecture of the simple command framework is - as named - simple. It comes with a couple of interfaces and some default implementation.
For each purpose you've a dedicated interface and sometimes an abstract implementation. You can pass a parameter object among the whole chain which has to fulfil the
ParameterObject interface. The
ParameterObject interface is just a marker for those objects.
The framework follows the composite pattern. You've a second interface which is a command as well but works as a container of commands. You can create chains with commands and command container as well.
For each interfaces you've default implementations which you can use for your own purposes.
AbstractDefaultChainCommand provides an empty
execute() method but an implementation of the chain of responsibility framework. The
executeAsChain() method calls the
execute() method. If there is no exception thrown it returns true. True means, the work hasn't been done and the next command should be called. If the
execute() method throws an exception, it is an indicator that the execution of the chain should be stopped. For this the
executeAsChain() method results false.
This is a good approach if the execution of the chain has to be stopped because an error has occurred. It may be a bad approach, if you want to stop because everything is fine. In this case you've to throw an exception: Everything is fine, the work is done. This is a little bit an anti-pattern but unfortunately there is no "positive exception" in Java.
DefaultCommandContainer has convenient methods to add commands to a container. Either the natural order (just add it) or via priority. If you add two commands with the same priority the first inserted command is executed first. Even the container has the same behavior as a simple command you can execute the container in the same way as a command. You can add a container in a container as well.
For bypassing parameter objects you may want to use the
GenericParameterObject interface, which provides methods to add key-value pairs into the object. An implementation of that is the
Again a brief description of the parts of the framework
Command: Interface for wrapping an algorithm. Everything is a command.
ChainCommand: Interface for a command which works in the second mode: Chain of Responsitibility.
ProcessCommand: Interface for a command which works in the third mode: Process Mode.
CommandContainer: Interface for grouping different
Command objects in a container. This fits the composite pattern:
CommandContainer objects have the same behavior as
Command objects. For this it is possible to add
Command objects as well as
CommandContainer in such a container.
ParameterObject: Marker interface for a parameter object.
ParameterObject objects are the glue between different commands. Because of the concept of these objects the whole framework is thread-safe and supports re-entrant algorithms.
Generic: Interface for a generic parameter object that holds a list of keys and values. A better approach is to create own type-safe parameter objects with get- and set-methods for the values (Bean convention). Because the whole framework works with generics you can instantiate each command with your own parameter object.
AbstractDefaultChainCommand: An implementation which provides a generic method for fulfilling the chain-of-responsibility pattern. Just call
executeAsChain(). All commands will be executes. If one command fails the execution is stopped.
AbstractDefaultProcessCommand: An Implementation which provides a generic method for fulfilling the process mode. Just call
executeAsProcess(). All commands will be executed in the right way.
DefaultCommandContainer: An implementation to add commands into a container. The execution of the container will execute all parts of it (either commands or command-containers). This fulfils the composite pattern. The
DefaultCommandContainer actually implements all three modes.
Default: An implementation of the
Generic interface to work with generic data in a generic data structure. This is not recommended because it is not type safe.
Chainbilder ist an interface to build chains from different sources e.g. XML, java configured or any other. Concrete classes have to implement the
Chainbuilder which takes a spring configuration or any other DI framework to build the actual chain.
Chainbuilder which takes an XML configuration to build the actual chain.
Working with commands
Handling single commands
You can use SCF to handle single commands. You can encapsulate algorithm or business logic or glue code in commands and just execute them. A good use case is to delegate methods to commands. If you use a dependency injection framework, you can inject certain implementations of a command. This makes your software maximum flexible.
Behavior of a single command
The behavior of a single command is as follow:
- The whole business code is hold in the
execute()method. This is true for all three modes.
executeAsChain()method calls the
execute()method to fulfil the business logic. After executing the method decides if the given problem is solved already (
return false) or if a possible next command in the chain should overtake (
return true). In other words: The
executeAsChain()method does nothing more than this decision. The
AbstractDefaultCommandimplements this method in a right way.
executeAsProcess()method calls the
execute()method to fulfil the business logic quite in the same way as
executeAsChain()does. But after executing the method decides explicit which process step should overtake (
return a processID) or if the execution should be stopped (
return null). Use the
DefaultCommandContainerto execute processes.
Example for a single command
Just have a look as this phantasy service called
CheckoutService. The aim of this service is doing all stuff which is necessary during a eCommerce checkout process.
The service is ready to use with a dependency injection framework using setter injection. The business method
addAdress() (line 23) does nothing than delegation the call to a command. The actual implementation can be configured outside the class. So actually if you want to change the implementation you don't have to inhire from the service providing "your service". You can just switch the injection of the
addAdressExecuter to another implementation. So you are as much as flexible you can be. If you want to enhance this object with other parameters no problem.
ParameterObject is just an interface.
The usage is shown in the test of this service
Handling commands in chains
First you've to decide, which approach you want to have.
The first mode is a continuous working of the commands step by step. The
CommandContainer executes each command. Exceptions are not handled. That means: If a command throws an exception the execution of other commands will not stop. Example: If you've five evaluations for a password. Each evaluator is encapsulated in a command - of course. So actually you don't want to stop evaluation if one evaluator fails because you want to provide all problems to your caller, not even one. So each evaluator writes an error message in the parameter object and you can provide all messages to the caller.
The second mode is a continuous working as well. You can configure what should happen if a command throws an exception. In this mode - the CoR mode (chain of responsibility mode) - an exception is handled automatically and each command can decide if the execution of the whole chain should be stopped (throw an exception) or if the next command should overtake. By default the chains stops if even one command throws an exception.
The third mode acts as the second mode but the container just executes the
processID which was given from the last executed command. With this mechanism you are able to manage whole business processes where you can have commands which work as actors and other commands which work as decisions. Because a
CommandContainer is a
Command as well you can manage sub processes as well.
Coupling commands together
CommandContainer interface provides a concept to couple commands to a chain or a process. The interface provides three methods: One to couple commands via order, one to couple via priority and one to couple via name.
If you want to be sure, that commands act in a actual order you've to add the commands via the method
void addCommand(int priority, Command<T> command);
and ensure, that each priority is configured exactly one time. If the order of the command doesn't matter you can take the
void addCommand(Command<T> command);
method to couple commands to a chain. For example: You've a password policy which contains five different methods to validate a password (has to be one digit, one capital letter, more than 10 characters, one special character ...) the order of the commands to validate a password is not necessary.
Because of the composite pattern you can add commands, command containers or both together in a
Working with chain builder
The framework offers different chain builder namely the
InjectionChainBuilder and the
XMLChainBuilder. A builder should fulfil the
As you see the
ChainBuilder itself is a
Command so you can execute the builder in the same way as a
Command and a builder can be inserted into a
CommandContainer as well.
Configuring via Spring
InjectionChainBuilder fulfils the
ChainBuilder interface. In additional it offers a method for dependency setter injection. The
setCommands(final List<Command<T>> commands)
method requires a list of commands which you can configure wire spring.
Configuring via XML
It is possible to configure commands via XML.
For execute this xml the XMLChainBuilder is used.
Instead setting a list of commands in this case an XML file name is set. The file has to be in the class path.
Example for the process mode
First of all: Proceses can only be configured via XML. In the current version it is not possible to configure it via Spring.
For processes we've an advanced xml notation explained here:
The xsd for this file is located here:
The process can be startet as stated in the next Test:
The commands has to return one of the transition returnvalues.
Process in Practice
Lets look on this simple process:
Each node becomes a ProcessCommand object and each transition a Transition object. The following steps are necasary:
- We've to write the xml file for the process definition
- Implement the ParameterObject
- For each step we've to write a test and implement the step.
- We've to write an integration test for both pathes.
The complete source code for this example you can get here: https://github.com/simplecommand/SimpleCommandFramework-Examples/tree/master/process-demo
Writing the process definition
Writing the ParameterObject
For POJOs I typically write no test. Either I generate it with an generator or I generate get-/set-Methods via Eclipse. They will be tested transitiv via the business logic around. If a get-/set-operation is not testet typically it is not used and can be deleted.
Writing tests for each Command
We just show on one command, how you can test the
ProcessCommand without the XML Configuration just to test:
The Implementation of our StartCommand is very simple:
Writing the integration test
Working with a DI container - Spring
Spring is just one example how to use everything with a DI container. You will see: There is not so much code left.
We use the same example as above. First we've to change the test.
As you see above now the checkout service is injected by spring. We've just to provide the right annotation and of course we've mark the service as component. In additional we need a configuration of the spring framework. In our case we use java configuration.
First the implementation of the service.
You see as well that the command is injected into the service too. For this the command has to be marked as component too.
Finally we need a spring configuration.
The maven configuration of the project.
Refactor legacy code to SCF
Refactoring to SRP
The open-close principle is one part of SOLID. Another part is the single responsibility principle. “There should only one reason to change a class (method).” So the first step is a refactoring to the SRP clean code principle.
One level of abstraction
Try to refactor the legacy code to two levels of abstraction: Public methods have no “calculation” just calling methods. All private methods hold algorithms that are called from the public method. One level of abstraction means that each method should follow only one of these two levels I described.
So actually if you've a logic which has different steps you should refactor it in a way:
Refactoring to pattern
After the software is prepared the refactoring is very easy:
- Change the signature of all private algorithms to parameter objects.
- Encapsulate each algorithm into a
- Change the public method: Just add all algorithms into a
- Prepare the parameter object.
- Execute the
CommandContainerbypassing the parameter object either brut forced or via chaining.
- Evaluate the parameter object.
- (optional) Provide a configuration of your container e.g. with the Spring framework or via the Builder-Pattern.
Command takes control of the whole execution. It can read and write values into the parameter object and can decide even the execution should going on or should stop.


Indigenes of Imiringi in Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State have pleaded with the state government to resume work on the abandoned bridge project in their community. Asedeygo gathered that the only access to the community, which has about 10 oil wells and four gas plants, is through a narrow bridge with a warning inscription “not for trucks more than 50 tons,” constructed several years ago by SPDC to access its location.
The concrete bridge crossing the Kolo Creek to the community, constructed about three decades ago when the area was part of the old Brass Local Government Area, was washed away during the 2012 flood. This has compelled the natives to construct a makeshift wooden bridge across the creek due to the long distance of the SPDC bridge from the heart of the community.
The hope of the natives was however, rekindled, recently when the state government intervened after the flood and awarded contract for the construction of a new bridge across the creek to replace the collapsed structure. But work on the project had since stopped with the contractor pulling out of site in the wake of the drop in the state’s allocation from the Federation Account. Also, the temporary wooden bridge is now on the verge of being washed away by the rising water level and the impact of water hyacinth.
Lamenting the plight of his people, a youth leader in area, Pastor Ranami Afagha, appealed to the state government to come to the aid of the community. “We are appealing to the state government to hear the cry of our people and mobilise the contractor back to site,” he said.


MATHIHALLI MADAN MOHAN writes from Hubli: There is an air of unreality even as the three major political parties in the State flex their muscle in the panchayat elections now underway.
Firstly, all the three parties have left no stone unturned to raise the hype over the outcome of the poll and say that the future of the government depends on it.
The reality is that the elections for the taluk panchayat and zilla panchayat elections have no role to play in determining the political fortunes of beleaguered B.S. Yediyurappa.
The verdict will not in any way affect the balance of power in the state assembly, where, at the moment, Yediyurappa appears to be well ensconced.
In the case of the rural voters trusting BJP for running the panchayat institutions, Yediyurappa may well claim that his policies have received a mandate from the people and cock a snook at his detractors who have been baying for his blood for months now.
In the case of an adverse vote against the BJP, the Congress and JDS may go to town claiming that the people have shown their displeasure and may demand that Yediyurappa should demit office.
To no one’s surprise, the CM will reject such a demand by taking the stand that it does not reflect the mood of the people since urban voters were not a part of the election process. And in any case his future has to be decided on the floor of the legislature and not in a panchayat election.
The BJP national president Nitin Gadkari who had said that Yediyurappa had been given a reprieve till the panchayat elections also will not be able to secure the resignation of Yediyurappa because of the likely adverse impact it may have on the only saffron government in the south.
Secondly, all the three parties, have been conveniently ignoring the core issue of the panchayat elections, namely of how efficiently these institutions of democratic decentralization could be run to ensure that the money meant for rural development is spent properly for the benefit and improvement of stake holders and how they can remove the impediments coming in the way.
All the three parties without an exception have been busy beating around the bush on the issue of empowerment of these institutions and talk of rural development programmes as if rural development programmes are synonymous with panchayat empowerment.
None of them, including the ruling BJP, are telling people about their commitment to empower panchayat institutions. Even if they do, whatever they say will have to be taken with a pinch of salt.
It is because all of them have a uniform record of emasculating the panchayats as far as possible and have abetted moves to subtly withdraw the powers given to them by law.
They would have succeeded in their endeavour to turn them into their vassals but for the constitutional safeguards that these institutions enjoy thanks to the 73rd and 74th Constitutional amendments.
There have been occasions when the Congress tried its best to avoid regular elections before the expiry of the term. The BJP too would have tried this time to postpone the poll but went ahead due to sheer political compulsions and prospects of the political advantage it could derive in the process.
This was the direct consequence of the reduction of seats reserved for the OBCs as per the direction of the Supreme Court, and everybody knows that it is a constituency in which BJP is not comfortably placed.
More than the political parties, their MLAs regardless of the political divide are dead opposed to any move to empower the panchayats since they fear that any alternate leadership which may emerge in the rural areas as a consequence may prove to be inimical to their position.
They have not lost a single occasion to put these institutions down, deride them and talk about the rampant corruption in the panchayat institutions, forgetting the fact that they are the fountain heads of corruption and have not lifted a finger to fight corruption.
It is a case of kettle calling the cup black.
The report of the third State Finance Commission headed by A.G. Kodgi, which has recommended a new formula for sharing the resources between the State government and the panchayats has been with the State government for more than a year but neither the ruling party nor the opposition are bothered about the implementation of the report.
The Constitution enjoins that the States appoint the state finance commission to ensure a fair devolution of finances to enable the panchayats to discharge the responsibilities given to them.
The implementation of the recommendations of the previous two finance commissions has been quite tardy and there appears to be no early prospects of the latest one being implemented.
At the end of the day, the point at issue is whom should the rural voters prefer in the ensuing polls to the panchayat elections. One party is as bad as another and all of them are universally untrustworthy. They have no chance but to vote.
And political parties are there to utilise the opportunity for their political aggrandizement and have hardly any time to give any thought for strengthening of the system, whose vitality has been sapped by the subtle moves of the government to keep all these institutions under their bureaucratic thumbs.
Photograph: Karnataka Photo News


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The biggest dance crowd in the Long Beach Municipal Auditorium’s history — 11,072 strong — gathered there to hear Harry James and his hand. Second biggest dance crowd — more than 10,000 — assembled to hear the Glenn Miller band.
Both of those dances were in 1942, the first full year of World War II.
Harry James’ big number in those days was “I Don’t Want to Walk Without You, Baby,” and Miller went strong for “One o’clock Jump,” “Tuxedo Junction” and “String of Pearls.”
Judy Garland sang her “comeback, on to Broadway” concert in Municipal Auditorium in July 1955.
The place was packed. Judy sang to what she said was the most appreciative audience of her life. She sung six extra numbers, running the concert 45 minutes overtime,
Frank Sinatra chartered a bus and brought to Judy’s concert Humphrey Bogart, Lauren Bacall, Dean Martin, Van Johnson, Eddie Fisher, Debbie Reynolds, Betty Hutton, Leslie Caron, Danny Davis Jr., Dick Powell, June Allyson, David Wayne, Edgar Bergen, Prince Mike Romanoff and composer Johnny Green — to name a few. Then Sinatra took the stage in impromptu fashion and sang a duet with Judy.
Next: rhythm and blues at the Muni


The importance of flexible system design for the future of multi occupancy dwellings
Gary Perry, Managing Director at Altecnic, explores how beneficial component flexibility, through the design, installation, and maintenance processes, can be for multi occupancy dwellings, and discusses how a water meter valve assembly is often the most ideal component for any water system serving multiple dwellings.
Water flow, control and monitoring is a key priority for water system design in multiple occupancy dwellings from design through to maintenance. Due to this often being highly complicated, designers, contractors and installers have much to consider when making recommendations and selecting components for them.
Issues that can occur with current water system designs
Water systems in multiple occupancy buildings present a unique set of challenges for a designer, with issues to consider such as design compliance, water hammer, potential leaks, pipe freezing, access to servicing points, pipe configuration, and the complexity of the install itself. Due to this, designers must seek out components which reduce the impact of these issues, make compliance to regulations easier, and optimise the water supply for each self-contained apartment.
With regard to compliance, the Water Supply (Water Fitting) Regulations 1999, require that each self-contained apartment in a multi-occupancy building be supplied with a stop valve and suitable backflow prevention device, such as a single or double check valve, or other no less effective back flow prevention device, according to the level of risk as judged by the water undertaker. In addition to this, under the Water Industry Act 1991, for every self-contained apartment or flat in a multi-occupancy build, there must be an individual water meter fitted to the supply pipe, regardless of whether it is a new build or a retrofit.
Even when water system design compliance is met, there can still be various issues with the system, with one of the most common problems with water systems being leaks from poorly installed components. This could be as a result of time pressure at install, or simply the excess number of connections required for individual componentry. The quality of the workmanship, and the time and care needed to ensure this is overcome, is a consideration that must be had when a designer specifies the componentry in the water system, as surplus time is often not available.
Another common problem is the freezing of pipes. Often, a designer will need to consider the location and the temperatures that the pipes will likely to be subjected to when installed. Lack of insulation around the pipes and fittings can lead to the loss of water supply due to freezing and splitting of components. For the insulation to be effective, the workmanship at installation must be of a high standard to prevent any opportunity for the cold to penetrate the system.
A further issue faced by designers, and eventually installers, is access to the components for maintenance. To ensure that the water system maintains the designed quality and efficiency, a system should be designed in a way which ensures easy access for maintenance. This can be difficult where designers wishing to optimise space for the apartments themselves can then only provide minimal space for the system install.
A modular approach
To assist designers, contractors, and installers in managing compliance, minimising issues, and even futureproofing water systems, manufacturers have the opportunity to develop quality solutions for multiple occupancy dwellings. By offering practical solutions to the common problems that are faced, a manufacturer can help to progress the overall compliance, quality, and performance of water system.
Well-designed water meter assemblies that offer a monobloc as a standalone product, with an option for a wide range of water meters to be connected, provide flexibility of install and design to meet the needs of each individual apartment.
For example, the development of a monobloc which combines the key components needed for the water supply to a single dwelling in a multi occupancy building is an ideal solution to assist at every stage of the building and maintenance process. A monobloc, with the addition of a water meter, enables the required components to be combined in a compact unit. Thus, reducing any potential leak points whist still allowing the monitoring and control of water supply whilst saving space, as well as time, at both the design and install stages.
For example, the Altecnic Apartment Control Assembly allows designers, and installers the flexibility to control and monitor water supply for any individual self-contained apartment in multi-occupancy dwellings. The monobloc contains a full-bore spherical stop valve, self-contained pressure reducing cartridge and single check valve, with union connection for direct connection to a water meter.
This modular approach means that the valve assembly can be ordered as a standalone monobloc, with the option to add a moulded insulation cover and gauge, a non-pulsed water meter, a water meter with MBUS connectivity, or a class D water meter. Importantly, there is no requirement for additional adaptors to be used with any water meter configuration, saving additional time and cost at install.
Futureproofing with MBUS
With a flexible valve assembly installed in a water system, a designer is given the ability to futureproof the systems and has available options to keep up to date with new technologies in regard to water monitoring and reading. Since the data sent by the meters are used for end user billing, a high degree of transmission integrity is required.
For example, when a water meter offers MBUS connectivity it allows for the energy consumption data from the meter to be remotely read. MBUS (or Meter Bus) is a communication protocol used between meters and the central data collection system, with it being cost-effective in its design as no engineers are required to go out and take readings. Devices from different manufacturers can also be connected to a bus system, which does not bind users to a meter manufacturer, thus adding an additional level of flexibility and removing constraints that may be set by using other water meter types.
Building automation, new technologies, and flexibility in design will be key focusses in the coming years as designers attempt to create dwellings that are forward looking for tenants. This, coupled with increased competition for securing development land, highlights why multiple occupancy buildings are becoming more popular. The speed at which modern buildings are required to be designed and then built, to meet the growing demand, means that designers and contractors must look for componentry which is fast to specify and install, and will optimise modern technologies.
Manufacturers should look to develop solutions that limit any potential issues that could be faced at the specification, design, and installation stages, with them also being flexible enough to consistently cater for modern technology.


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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Kruger National Park a good option for a 5day family safari?
Yes, the Kruger National Park can be a great option for a 5-day family safari. The Park is known for its incredible wildlife sightings and diverse landscapes, and there are many safari operators and lodges that offer a variety of safari packages and activities to suit different interests and budgets. A 5-day safari can allow for more time to explore the different regions of the park and increase the chances of seeing more wildlife.
What types of accommodation are available in the Kruger Park for families on a 5day safari?
Some popular options include family-friendly lodges, self-catering cottages, and private safari tents. Many lodges and camps offer accommodations that are specifically designed to cater to families, with features such as interconnecting rooms or family suites, child-friendly amenities, and activities to keep children entertained.
Is the Kruger National Park a safe place for a 5day family safari?
Yes, the Kruger National Park is generally considered a safe place for a 5-day family safari. The Park is well-managed, and there are strict rules and regulations in place to ensure the safety of visitors and the wildlife. However, it’s important to follow the Park’s guidelines, such as not getting out of your vehicle in undesignated areas, not feeding the wildlife, and keeping a safe distance from the animals.


Double 140gm vinyl LP pressing including bonus CD edition. 2014 album from the electric duo of Brad Mehldau and Mark Guiliana. The two have been performing for several years with Mehldau playing Fender Rhodes and synthesizers and Guiliana on drums and effects, as they are on the record. Mehliana comprises 12 original tunes six written by the duo and six written by Mehldau and was engineered and mixed by Greg Koller (Jon Brion, Kanye West).
Taming the Dragon
You Can't Go Back Now
Elegy for Amelia E
Just Call Me Nige
Each record is protected within its record sleeve by a white vellum anti-dust sleeve.
All items are shipped brand-new and unopened in original packaging. Every record is shipped in original factory-applied shrink wrap and has never been touched by human hands.