text:
Saudi Arabia are reportedly confident about signing Paris Saint-Germain star Lionel Messi at the end of this season.
The 35-year-old’s current deal is set to expire in June, with the Parisians having an option to extend it by another year.
However, the Ligue 1 giants will not avail that option and he will leave the club as a free agent this summer, per L’Equipe.
The experienced forward has been linked with a return to Barcelona, with manager Xavi Hernandez very keen to sign him.
But the Catalans’ financial problems mean Xavi may not have his wish fulfilled.
According to Marca, Saudi Arabia are increasingly confident of signing Messi this summer.
It is said that the country’s political and sporting figures are highly optimistic the Argentine will soon be playing in their football league.
Former Real Madrid and Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo is already showcasing his skills in the Pro League.
The Portuguese mutually terminated his contract at United to join Al Nassr in January.
Since his arrival in Riyadh, he has made 18 senior appearances with 14 goals to his name.
The Saudi rulers reportedly want to revive the Messi-Ronaldo rivalry in the Asian country.
Recent reports suggested the Argentina international has accepted an offer from Al-Hilal to join them this summer.
The club are said to have offered him a greatly lucrative contract worth over €300 million.
However, the player as well as his father have insisted that no decision will be made on his future until the end of the 2022-23 campaign.
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text:
This article was originally published here
Pharmaceut Med. 2021 Jan 23. doi: 10.1007/s40290-021-00383-y. Online ahead of print.
BACKGROUND: Progression-free survival (PFS) has not been validated as a surrogate endpoint for overall survival (OS) in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer.
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate an impact of advantage in tumor response on the correlation between PFS and OS in advanced non-small cell lung cancer.
METHODS: Based on a literature search, we identified randomized controlled trials of first-line therapy for advanced non-small cell lung cancer. The impact of absolute difference in objective response rate between treatment arms on the correlation between hazard ratios (HRs) for PFS and OS was evaluated based on Spearman rank correlation coefficients.
RESULTS: Sixty trials with a total of 29,134 patients were identified. The HR for PFS showed a relatively higher correlation with HR for OS (rs = 0.75) when the trials were limited to those that demonstrated a larger advantage in objective response rate, compared with the case for trials that demonstrated a smaller advantage (rs = 0.66). This tendency was also observed in the subgroup analysis stratified by the types of treatment agents (non-targeted, anti-angiogenic, and immunotherapy) except for the group of epidermal growth factor receptor-targeted agents.
CONCLUSIONS: The magnitude of advantage in tumor response was suggested to contribute to a better prediction of OS-HR based on PFS-HR in clinical trials in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer.

domain: literature


Written By Jason Voorhees
In this week's edition of Top Albums we will cover the Crown Prince of Metal...Ozzy Osbourne. The Prince of Darkness is one of the most iconic figures in heavy metal history. While Ozzy earned his early stripes fronting "Black Sabbath", it was his solo career that truly defined his fame and popularity in the mainstream world.
Over the years; Ozzy Osbourne has enjoyed quite a career while producing a definitive collection of timeless classics. While there have been numerous lineup changes in his band, its always included elite musicianship. There was no better example of this than his unrivaled ability to recruit world class guitar talent. Whether it was the super prodigy Randy Rhoads, or his successor Jake E Lee, to the longest tenured Zakk Wylde; all of these guitarists made it much easier for Ozzy to shine in the spotlight.
Last week we covered Ronnie James Dio, who ironically replaced Ozzy in Black Sabbath. This time we get to take a deep dive into his predecessor's solo career. As we embark on this latest challenge, there is no doubt that this trip down memory lane should be epic. So without further ado...let's take a look at the mind of the Crown Prince as we chronicle the diary of a madman...
11. Scream (2010)
Despite a new refreshing sound, this album unfortunately misses the mark. The departure of Zakk Wylde and less than stellar songwriting doomed this album before it ever began. That's not to say that its a terrible album, but clearly sub standard for the Prince of Darkness. Ozzy had recruited Gus G, previously from Firewind to replace Zakk so there was already huge shoes to fill. Add to that the over dubbed vocal overtones to enhance his lyrics and the album just couldn't live up to the hype. There were however a few winners on the record despite its poor reviews. Standout tracks include 'Let Me Hear You Scream', 'Diggin Me Down' and 'I Want it More.' As stated, not a poor record using an average band metric but certainly not one of Ozzy's finest hours.
10. Black Rain (2007)
Most people call this a black mark in Osbourne's catalog. I would say that "Black Rain" is more like the black sheep. Unfortunately it did mark the end of the road for sensational axe man Zakk Wylde. While the album clearly lacks creativity, it still has flashes of brilliance that only Ozzy can produce. The lead single 'I Don't Wanna Stop' absolutely brings the house down in typical fashion. The title track 'Black Rain' follows the classic formula as well. However; it's hidden gems like '11 Silver' and 'Countdown's Begun' that make this his most underrated album to date. Killer guitar and skillful songwriting. While many go left, Ozzy always goes right. This is an album that really gets better over time. Check it out...you may be pleasantly surprised.
9. Down to Earth (2001)
After producing "Ozzmosis", Ozzy embarked on a short Black Sabbath reunion. When he brought the solo band back together again, he also called upon a panel of collaborators to write the songs. The results was a mixed bag of nuggets and the album quality suffered. Yes, Zakk Wylde was still present on guitar but his unique songwriting style and technique was sadly missing. It's almost like Ozzy forgot the all important formula to making a great record. Nonetheless, the album did enjoy success on the charts as it hit #4 on the US Billboard Top 200. The album was not star exempt as he also recruited Mike Bordin (Faith No More) on drums and Robert Trujillo (Metallica) on bass. Standout tracks include 'Gets Me Through' and 'Running out of Time' as well as the super ballad 'Dreamer.'
8. Ordinary Man (2020)
It's safe to say that the Prince of Darkness has passed his better years. With that being said, this surprise out of nowhere release was his best album in many years. Post Malone's Andrew Watt helped produce the record and the result was nothing less than spectacular. Mr. Osbourne's vocals were the best we have saw since his glory days. The creative juices were flowing once again and the overflow spills into fantastic musicianship. 'Under the Graveyard' is a metal analogy to Ozzy's almost near death experience after leaving Sabbath to his eventual rise again in his solo career. Its a magnificent piece of art and he definitely shocked the world with this one. Kudos to Ozzy for his undying passion for music and this album is that sorta rebirth we've all been waiting for.
7. No Rest For The Wicked (1988)
Ozzy was running wild on this one as he commandeered Zakk Wylde to replace Jake E Lee on the axe. It was a match made in heaven as the band instantly clicked on "No Rest For The Wicked." Wylde brought a more aggressive approach and the songs were more on the edgy side. Likewise, Zakk had a knack for intense songwriting and you could see that expertise crawling out of every tune on the record. The final product was a double platinum masterpiece once again placing Ozzy at the top of the food chain. Many solid hits on this one including "Miracle Man", "Crazy Babies" and "Tattooed Dancer" while housing uncut gems like "Bloodbath in Paradise." This was definitely a better album than it often gets credit for and will always have a special place in every die hard fan's heart.
6. Ozzmosis (1995)
Many people would scoff at this album being so high on the list. However; true metal scholars realize the relevance of this smash hit wonder. It was a tremendous follow up to a predecessor that absolutely screamed gold standard. Although the album continued down the commercial mainstream track, it definitely had spurts of underground flavor. It was a strong mixture of heavy riff balls to the wall energy along with symmetrical melodic ballads with some raw and edgy noise in between. Definitely the most diverse album of Ozzy's career and beloved by even his most harshest critics. The albums lead track "Perry Mason" is an ode to the long lost "Mr. Crowley" while "See You on the Other Side" brought back memories of "Mama I'm Coming Home." Tremendous album by one of the best hands down.
5. Bark At The Moon (1983)
Losing Randy Rhoads would almost certainly spell doom for any other artist but not Ozzy. After Rhoads untimely death, Osbourne tapped Jake E Lee for the lead guitar gig and the rest was history. While Jake showed a bit of a difference in style, his skill would prove to be no flash in the pan. The lead title track may be the best opening track ever on any Ozzy record. Fast, heavy and straight to the point. Even if this was the only track on the album that would gain stardom, the rest of the record proved that Lee belonged to stay. It was a monumental record for the Prince as he showed that it was the music not the personnel that ultimately defined the band. "Center of Eternity" and "Waiting for Darkness" remain the bands most underrated tracks of all-time. Welcome aboard Jake!
4. The Ultimate Sin (1986)
This was an album that has gained more and more credit over time. It's release did not sit well with many of the faithful and did not fair particularly well on the charts. However; mainstream popularity is the last thing that should be measured when rating an album. And that's exactly the case with this one folks. Although the album did not have smash hits on the billboard chart, the record is littered with A list star power when applying the ear test. Tracks like "Secret Loser", "Never Know Why", "Thank God For the Bomb", "Lightning Strikes", "Killer of Giants" and "Shot in the Dark" are all stellar songs both lyrically and stylistically. While "The Ultimate Sin" and "Shot in the Dark" are bookend masterpieces. Zero filler and the tunes are killer. Mark of an excellent album.
3. No More Tears (1991)
This was an extremely tough pick for me as it almost made #2. It could have gone either way but nonetheless here we are. Not much to complain about on this effort. 4x Platinum. A title track that rivals any song in metal. Numerous hidden gems and little to no filter. While the album did still feature that raw energy we had grown accustomed to as Ozzy fans, it also featured the commercialized radio friendly focus that ultimately drove the popularity. The band called upon Lemmy Kilmeister to help produce the record and in doing so channeled their inner Motorhead. The creative aspects on this album are endless and circumventing. The results are priceless. An instant classic that would be any other band's Mount Rushmore...which even furthers the depths of the albums greatness.
2. Diary of A Madman (1981)
This would unfortunately be the swan song for Randy Rhoads who would tragically die one year later. How sweet that final lap was though. Another magnificent record for the Prince of Darkness that would definitely mark a more creative side for the band. Another blistering title track that would even send chills down Alister Crowley. And a lead track to die for in 'Over the Mountain.' It's those subtle sleepers that set this album apart though as another epic effort for the forefather. Randy flexes his muscles on those lesser known classics that truly endow him as a guitar god. However; the solo on the title track is an epic fortress the likes we may never see of again. Wow is all you can say as you gasp in awe. Another true metal album giant.
1. Blizzard of Ozz (1980)
This may be the easiest pick I have ever had to make for top albums. In fact, this album is in my Top 5 heavy metal albums of all-time so rightfully its Ozzy's best ever. The crème de le crème of Osbourne's mountain. A solid metal record from beginning to end. A timeless work of art that even gets better with time. "Crazy Train" may be the best anthem of all-time. "Mr. Crowley" is certainly the most well put together metal song we have ever heard. The list can keep going. Some of the best lyrics ever penned to paper as well; not to mention the super fine artwork. Everything that you could ask for in a debut album, probably the greatest debut album in music history and that's no stretch. Straight up Fire!
Hope you enjoyed this week's edition because we certainly had fun doing so! Ozzy is one of the near and dear figures of the entire metal community and we all adore him like a father!! Excellent catalog and one that will live on forever as we move into the next generation! As we look towards next week, we hope that you are all staying safe and sound in quarantine! And please don't forget...Check out Kevin Law and Johnny E on Thursday evenings 7PM-9PM as they count down all of your favorites from past and present as well as future!! And we leave you with one of Ozzy's classic masterpieces!!!! Rock On Mates!!!!!
Written By Jason Voorhees
In this week's edition we will tackle one of the most quintessential artists of heavy metal history...Mr. Ronnie James Dio.
While RJD carved out his legacy during his early years in Elf, Rainbow and Sabbath; it was during his solo career where he truly earned his stripes. During his stellar career, DIO created one of the most extensive catalogs that the metal genre has ever saw. While many people celebrate his work in those high profile gigs, some forget how truly magnificent his solo efforts actually were.
Over that same solo career, his band saw many lineup changes while suffering many ups and downs. One thing always remained constant though and that was Ronnie's vision. No matter what style of music, no matter what themes of choice, no matter who was playing the instruments, one could always recognize that the music was DIO. And that my friends is what makes this guy one of the legends of heavy metal. Simply put...a rock god.
Opinions are widespread on where his albums stack up when ranked to each other. Once again, a challenging project to undertake; nonetheless one that we are ready to take head on. So don't be the last in line as we lock up the wolves on this journey down these very strange highways!
10. Angry Machines (1996)
Released during the height of the grunge movement, this album was probably set up to fail before it ever began. While you could definitely hear a much different tone with elements of industrial and grunge present, the band still tried to stay true to its roots. Although this record comes in as the last on the list, it certainly is not a terrible effort. In fact, I would venture to say it's probably the band's most underrated. The piano ballad 'This Is Your Life' became a smash hit after his passing and encompasses Ronnie's brilliance when it comes to song writing. Tracks like 'Hunter of The Heart', 'Black', and 'Stay out of My Mind' still inject that Sabbath doom and gloom flavor that we all have grown to love. Definitely an undervalued album that grows on you the more that you listen...an aggressive assault on the senses.
9. Lock up the Wolves (1990)
With an entirely new lineup in toe it was time for a clean slate at the dawn of a new decade. 18 year old prodigy Rowan Robertson was ready to take the world by storm on this release. While anticipation was high, the results were a mixed bag of praise and criticism. Many fans were disappointed as the album took on a different style than the one they had grown accustomed to. Lacking the star power of a truly stand out track, the record is sometimes labeled dull and uninspired. Unfortunately, the expectations were not met on the album which is why its ranked close to the bottom. However; die hard DIO fans will tell you that its just misunderstood. Tracks like 'Hey Angel', 'Evil on Queen Street' as well as the title track continue to invoke the signature sound we all know. Good but not great...simply put.
8. Strange Highways (1993)
After another Sabbath reunion came suddenly crashing down, Ronnie James Dio and Vinny Appice were once again left holding the bag. However; the controversial split would not mean the end, but instead a rebirth for the two stalwarts. The band added Tracy G on guitars and Jeff Pilson (formerly of Dokken) on bass. The result was Dehumanizer 2.0. Although the album did not match the success of it's Sabbath predecessor, it certainly sounded like a reboot. Definitely one of their most underrated pieces, 'Strange Highways' brings that signature doomy sound and style. Slow eloquent tempos with a mixture of grooves, bends and hooks. Plenty of hidden gems and not much filler on this one. While the title track firmly stands out, it's the sleepers that truly define this album among the best.
7. Sacred Heart (1985)
The third album for DIO was a bit of a step down from their previous efforts. As the saying goes, "The best laid plans of mice and men often go awry." Sometimes going to the well one too many times can be detrimental and that's exactly what happened on this album. That's not to say that the album was a failure because that would be a flat out lie. It was just too much of the same as the favorite recipe had become stagnant. With that being said, the album was still catchy and some tracks hit the nail. In fact, the title track remains one of the bands greatest overall tunes to this day. In retrospect, the sound production probably hurt the record's overall success. In a cruel twist of fate, this would mark the end of the road for Vivian Campbell in the band. Substandard for DIO, but still pretty solid.
6. Master of the Moon (2004)
Sadly this would be the last album for Dio but what a swan song it was. A solid album that featured frequent collaborators from the bands past. RJD's vocals aged like fine wine as he could still belt out lyrics with ferocious tone and synergy. And the rest of the band was able to match that intensity resulting in an epic finale of success. Consistent and focused, there is not one bad track on the album with little to no filler. Beginning with the opener 'One More For the Road' the record absolutely hits hard. Other standout songs include 'End of the World', 'Shivers', 'The Man Who Would Be King' and 'Death by Love' as well as the title track. While the album is overshadowed by the classics, there is definitely a place at the top for die hard fans. Its always nice to go out on top and this record fits that narrative.
5. Magica (2000)
How could Dio's legacy be complete without a concept album. RJD's love for the dramatic is encompassed entirely on this conceptual thriller. Record sales definitely do not tell the story for this one as they tanked. However, the album is littered with all of his most beloved musical trademarks and traits. The album has since gained a cult following among die hard fans and heavy metal analysts alike. A stellar mixture of heavy dark energy and soft ballad melodies make this one of their most underrated works of art. Of course the plan of a conceptual trilogy would never come to fruition so we may never fully understand the of the ending of the story. Nonetheless, this fantasy laden record sends chills down your spine. Pop it In and take a spin, be prepared to be blown away.
4. Dream Evil (1987)
Removing star guitarist Vivian Campbell from the lineup could have spelled doom for any other band. Not Dio. Adding Craig Goldy actually ignited a fire in the band and the result was an epic blast of heavy metal destruction. The newfound energy enabled the band to produce an A list record. The album once again featured top notch songwriting and elite musicianship. The band was back to the formula that helped them rise to the top of the metal food chain. The band's new guitarist embodied some similarities in style to Ritchie Blackmore which paid homage to Rainbow on a few tracks. The opener 'Night People' is a speed metal eulogy which features an absolutely epic solo. Other stand out songs include 'Dream Evil', 'Sunset Superman', 'All the Fools Sailed Away' and 'I Could Have Been a Dreamer'. Excellent album from an excellent band.
3. Killing The Dragon (2002)
This was a throwback to the classical era of Dio. This version of Dio featured Doug Aldrich on the axe and he did not disappoint. Crisp and tight musicianship that featured inspiring riffs and hard hitting bass lines. The band went away from commercialized mainstream style as they tried to emulate their roots. The finished product was a traditional metal album that fans would love. Its almost like Ronnie jumped into a time machine back to 1983 in one fellow swoop. The lyrics were once again more focused, the songs had more energy, the sound was more polished. This was an album that was released way after its time but yet one that could have followed the big 2. One of my personal favorites and definitely top of the list worthy. One of Dio's finest hours.
2. The Last In Line (1984)
So much for the sophomore jinx. There was no slumping on this album. Dio was in it to win it and there was no turning back. As their breakout debut became one of the greatest debuts of all-time, you could probably say that this one ranks among the best of sophomore metal lore. The album featured all of the classic Dio characteristics including themes of fantasy and mysticism. Far from a reboot though, it had its own attitude which sets it apart from its predecessor. The title track is the most notable but the true sleeper is the epic finale 'Egypt (The Chains Are On)' which once again features Vivian Campbell's dominance on the axe. Another prototype masterpiece for Dio and one that would further cement their place at the Mount Rushmore of Metal.
1. Holy Diver (1983)
This might as well have been titled the Holy Grail. The seminal album of Ronnie James Dio career marked the apex for the band album wise. Not only is this Dio's top album, many consider this as one of the top heavy metal albums of all-time history. Definitely one of the best debut albums of all-time as well. Simply a masterpiece in every way. The record featured every aspect of a great heavy metal album. Awesome musicianship. Top of the line songwriting. Multiple mega hits. Plenty of relevant substance. Zero Filler. All the marks of an excellent album. Dio struck gold on this one and the record lives on forever. Raw and edgy but to the point. Lyrically and stylistically elite. The top of the food chain for Dio and one many metal fans all time favorites no doubt. Bow to the King.
Once again, we hope that you enjoyed this edition of top album lists. Dio is one of the all-time greats and it was a treat going back in time to chronicle their catalog. Of course, as always this is a matter of opinion and hopefully you will share yours. We will continue to bring you the best of top album lists and we challenge you to request your favorite bands so that we can cover them in the future. As always, we hope that you will join Kevin Law and Johnny E every Thursday from 7PM-9PM as they pound out the best of metal old and new!! And in closing, we wish you continued safety during these unchartered times. As we close, please enjoy this special from Holy Diver!!! Rock on Mates!!
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Stories, news and reviews presented by the staff of Philly Rock Radio.


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Patience in a Fast-Paced Industry
I'm sooo close to releasing my music. Closer than I've ever been, actually. I'm feeling really excited, like I just want to share this fire with whoever connects with it! I get in modes where I'll work on creating, practicing, and researching for a combined ten to twelve hours a day. The work flow is moving me forward and the momentum is amazing! In these moments, I want to do everything at once. I want to create the track, copyright, upload the song and video/visual and push it out right away. But woah there! There is a process that I've had to go through to ensure I'm prepared when the music is released. Have I prepared the music not only creatively to its liking (more on that last statement in another blog)? Legally? Visually? Am I ready to engage with the wonderful people who will connect with my songs? All of these things have encouraged me to slow down, make sure that business is in order first, and breathe. Yes, breathe and trust that my process is... well I was going to say perfect, but that could imply some sort of possible imperfection. So, I'll just say my process just IS. I have a deep knowing that whoever is feeling my music will connect with it. I also realize that not everyone will love it. And I think that this is okay! This gives me comfort to continue to create, observe, learn and be at peace with my timeline of sharing these songs with the world. I hope that whatever you're passionate about and working toward, that you can breathe and enjoy the process. Yes, you'll make it to your goals (or even somewhere more exhilarating) but don't lose your joy on the journey!

domain: artistic


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The deal comes on the heels of Kilburn Live’s recent ventures in the live-entertainment space with The Dr. Seuss Experience and NERF Challenge activations.
February 19, 2020
Kilburn Live, the live events division of Kilburn Media, has announced a new partnership with Peanuts Worldwide, the global IP based on the comic by Charles Schulz, for a new immersive experience.
“Partnering with Peanuts to bring such a classic piece of pop culture to life is an absolute privilege,” says Mark Manuel, chief executive officer, Kilburn. “These characters are recognized and beloved globally, so we are looking forward to giving our guests the chance to step inside their world through this unforgettable experience.”
Just in time for the 70th anniversary of the first Peanuts comic strips, the collaboration will give guests the opportunity to go on a new family-friendly journey with Snoopy, Charlie Brown and all of their friends.
“Peanuts is a brand that is a true family tradition,” says Craig Herman, senior director, category management, Peanuts Worldwide. “Parents and grandparents cherish the opportunity to share their love of Snoopy and Charlie Brown with the next generation, and what better way to do so than through a Kilburn Live experience.”
This announcement comes on the heels of Kilburn Live’s recent ventures in the live entertainment space with The Dr. Seuss Experience and NERF Challenge activations, both of which launched in late 2019 and will continue their tours throughout 2020 with additional stops set to be unveiled later this winter.
More information on the Peanuts attraction will be released later this year.
Read more about:Peanuts
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Glenwood Elementary School’s K–3rd graders hosted The Alphabet Rockers for two fantastic back-to-back assemblies on Wednesday, May 24th. Kaitlin McGaw, Tommy Sheperd and DJ Juan Amador performed their newest assembly entitled, The Playground Zone: Diversity for the two lively student audiences. The show focused on inclusion and raising awareness about diversity in the student community. The Alphabet Rockers used hip-hop music and dance to engage the kids, while talking to them about the importance of self-identity, and being an ally to fellow students. One of the highlights of the performance was when the students were asked to create handshakes with a partner. Kaitlin and Tommy demonstrated for the students by examining the back of their own hands and coming up with creative names for their skin color. Tommy called his, “Carne Asada,” and Kaitlin dubbed hers, “Peach Salsa.” They decided that sounded like a delicious taco, so they devised a “Taco Handshake.” They challenged the students to do the same, and name their own skin color after a familiar object or thing. The resulting handshakes were fantastic, and the students’ creativity really shined.
Another great moment, was when The Alphabet Rockers asked the students what they were going to do to change the world. Tommy walked around with a microphone and got very thoughtful responses from every student in the audience.
For the finale the Alphabet Rockers had the audience form a giant circle, and invited students and teachers to take turns doing their own unique dance in the center. What a fun and invigorating morning at Glenwood Elementary!

domain: news


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Produits de Lovey's Original Trinidad String Band ? - CDs, Vinyl LPs, DVD und mehr
FIRST RECORDINGS BY STRING BANDS AND CHANTWELLS
The first recordings of idiomatic Trinidad music were made in the U.S.A. in 1912 when, at the encouragement of American tourists who had recently visited the island, a twelve-man group led by the violinist George Baillie (Lovey) travelled to New York City for concert engagements. Both the Victor Talking Machine Company and the Columbia Graphophone Company recorded Lovey's Trinidad String Band. Their performances, all instrumentals, featured paseos, Spanish waltzes and even Argentinean tangos, Spanish Main dance rhythms popular in the island during this period.22
Two years later, at the end of July-beginning of August 1914, Lovey's band made further recordings for Columbia. This was just at the commencement of the First World War, for on August 1, Britain declared war on Germany. The War, however, had no immediate effect in the British West Indies. In the middle of the same month,the Victor Talking Machine Company (of Camden, New Jersey, U.S.A.) sent its team to the island "to make a complete repertoire of Trinidad's "local" music, including "'Calypsos,' 'Paseos,' Spanish Waltzes, Two Steps, Patois and East Indian songs by local performers." The arrival of the company's representatives was reported in both the Mirror and Port-of-Spain Gazette on August 28. The Mirror provided a few extra particulars: "We understand that Mr. Henry Julian, formerly of 'White Rose' has been practising assiduously for the above purpose and that several other bands and performers have been engaged."23
Excepting September 6, recording sessions were held every day between the 3rd and 16th of the month. Victor's principal artist was the pianist and well-known string band leader, Lionel Belasco. Henry Julian (Iron Duke/Julian White Rose) recorded under the sobriquet J. Resigna. The other participants were Jules Sims (whose calendas were sung in French Creole), S. M. Akberali and Gellum Hossein (of East Indian ancestry), and the Orquesta de Venezolana de Chargo (probably made up of Trinidad creoles, some of Venezuelan descent).
The initial batch of Victor releases from these sessions was distributed in time for the 1915 Carnival (Mirror, February 8) and, excepting "sacred Mohammedan chants" by S. M. Akberali, virtually all the performances are of secular music played or sung by black creoles. Complimenting the waltzes and paseos recorded by the Belasco Orchestra, the Mirror went on to observe "A novelty in creole music is afforded in calypsos after the, rendering of 'Julian White Rose,' the celebrated chantrel, whose voice has lost none of its sweetness." They noted also that "the Bamboo Band "Kalendar" is a new feature which will appeal to lovers of originality." 24 While the other repertoire reflected degrees of "respectability," the stick-fighting calendas sung by Jules Sims and chorus, accompanied by tamboo-bamboo, represented the defiant and sometimes violent extremity of black creole society that did not conform with colonial ideals of decorum.
Various Calypso 1938-1940 (10-CD)
Read more at: https://www.bear-family.de/various-calypso-1938-1940-10-cd.html
Copyright © Bear Family Records
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domain: history


USPS officials testify about budget issues
The books for the US Postal Service are in the red and Wednesday, key officials told congress just how bad things are getting.
The house oversight committee heard testimony about budget issues.
One congressman said the Postal Service is an unsustainable business.
"Even if you take away the $11 billion default over two years, the fact is, in the real world, the post office is bleeding red ink," said Representative Darrell Issa.
In March, a government report said the post office cannot legally stop mail delivery on Saturdays.


Bill to Regulate Preparers Proposed- RTRP May Come Back
After the IRS created the Registered Tax Return Preparer program based on licensing of tax preparers they were sued. In court, and in appeal, they were not found to have statutory authority to regulate unenrolled preparers. Senator Rob Portman has introduced a new bill that would grant the IRS the authority that they need to […]
The Best Time to Become an Enrolled Agent is Now.
With the passing of the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act, many tax laws will be changing. The tax law changes will not be represented on the Enrolled Agent Special Enrollment Exams until next year. If you can find the time and motivation to complete your Enrolled Agent exams between May 1, 2018 — February 28, […]
IRS Provides Additional Day to File and Pay Taxes
Following today’s system issues, the IRS is providing taxpayers an additional day to file and pay their taxes. Individuals and businesses with a filing or payment due date of April 17 will now have until midnight on Wednesday, April 18. Taxpayers do not need to do anything to receive this extra time. Throughout the system […]
End of Filing Season is November 18th, 2017
Last day to e-file returns will be November 18th, 2017. Until that day, you can e-file tax returns from 2014, 2015, and 2016. Once e-filing opens back up for the coming season, then you will be able to e-file returns for 2015, 2016, and 2017.


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Friday, June 5, 2009
Little J's 4th birthday (part 1)
As "Chef Sheffy Celebration", a cooking inspired celebration with the rest of the Espino cousins. They baked cupcakes and made pizza's. I noticed that most of the kids even the parents was surprised on how our party was set-up. They expected the usual, greeting of happy birthday and eating only. The typical Filipino celebrations, they are surprised that the kids really has activity. They are so pleased and happy about it, the kids enjoyed cooking and the parents enjoyed it too. Even the adults enjoyed playing "chef". So here are some pictures I'd like to share with you!
Posted by sweetytots at 7:54 PM

domain: food


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My Mom's birthday was this weekend, and the woman drives a purple Harley Davidson motorcycle...so, the obvious choice for a birthday cake.....!?!?
The cake is chocolate orange (like the Terry's chocolate oranges which she LOVES at Christmas!) with chocolate filling. A thin layer of buttercream is under the black MMF! The logo is MMF with hand-piped lettering. The flames are MMF as well.
It was a hit!


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Earthen Inspired are pleased to announce that we welcome any stockist requests.
At present, our stockist range is exclusive to our soy wax ceramic candles which can be decorated with organic dried florals. Please note that due to the timely process of creating these candles from scratch, wholesale orders can have up to a 3-4 week delay before shipping. Please enquire for further information about current wait times.
If you would like to become a stockist of our beautiful candle range, please contact us via email firstname.lastname@example.org or alternatively by our Contact page.
Upon receiving your enquiry, we will send out an information and pricing pack.


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She gets it from her sire, lol. She pulls the bands out and I have to rebraid it everyday. Silly girl. Best personality ever. I feel bad when I leave her in the barn or outside, feel like I should bring her in the house, lol.
She'll be 2. She's only 12hh but both of the breeds she is are smaller so I don't think she'll get over 14hh, if that. I think her growth may have been stunted from an improper diet as well. The girl that owned her is trying to learn but I don't think she gets how to feed a youngster. All of her other horses appear in good weight.
There were a few horses at my school that were in a similar situation, they were supposed to be taller than they were, but due to an improper diet, they didnt grow to their potential....what breed is she? To me, her color looks Haffie, but she doesnt look like one in the face, from my experience anyways. She's very cute tho!

domain: pet


Who could follow up a Grammy Award winning song for Best Song Written for Visual Media with one that might be even better? The veteran Justin Timberlake, that’s who. But really, his hit for the 2016 Trolls movie “Can’t Stop the Feeling” earned him that accolade. Now it looks like he is trying to follow that up with the movie’s sequel Trolls World Tour.
It’s a smooth and bouncy disco track that’s a lot of fun to listen to. The video compliments the feel well with signature choreography from both SZA and Timberlake.
“The Other Side” is the featured of the twenty-track compilation for the upcoming movie. The album also features other talent such as Anderson. Paak, HAIM, Kelly Clarkson, and more.


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Tokio hotel dating
Tokyo is without doubt one of the safest cities on the planet (at least in terms of crime; earthquakes, tsunami and Godzilla notwithstanding).However, you risk shattering its Disneyland-level innocence should you stray into the sex industry.Like pretty much all the other mammals cohabiting planet Earth, the cheapo is hardwired at an animal level to find a mate and get jiggy.In this article, we hope to assist fellow cheapos living in or visiting Tokyo with some tips and pointers for economically achieving success in this arena.
Shinjuku Nichome is the queer district, while Shinjuku as a whole is a potpourri of almost everything.
If you came here looking for sex in Tokyo, you might try Ashley Madison, perhaps the easiest entry into the world of Tokyo’s bored housewives (and husbands).
If you’re not interested in that, there’s always Craigslist, which does exist in Tokyo, as does Tinder—but not to the extent it does in North America.
For the younger crowd: Shibuya, Harajuku and Kichijoji.
For the more exclusive and fashionable: Daikanyama, Toyama, Omotesando, Ebisu and Nakameguro.

domain: geography


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Comfort food for the cow-lover.
Original recipe makes 3 servings
3 tablespoons cornmeal
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, or to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon chili powder, or to taste
salt and pepper to taste
1 (12 ounce) package extra-firm tofu, cut into 1/4-inch thick slices
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 cup minced onion
1 teaspoon soy sauce
3/4 cup barbeque sauce
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 9×13-inch glass baking dish with cooking spray.
- Combine cornmeal, flour, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a resealable plastic bag; shake to mix. Gently shake tofu slices with cornmeal mixture to coat, then shake off excess, and place into prepared baking dish.
- Bake tofu in preheated oven for 10 minutes, then turn the pieces over and continue to cook for an additional 10 minutes. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in soy sauce and barbeque sauce. Bring to a simmer, then turn heat to low and keep warm until the tofu is ready.
- When tofu has finished baking, pour the hot barbeque sauce overtop, then return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
Calories: 288 kcal
Carbohydrates: 36.1 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg
Fat: 11.5 g
Fiber: 1.7 g
Protein: 12.4 g
Sodium: 941 mg


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Enough force stationed at protest venue: Arup Patnaik
Mumbai Police Commissioner Arup Patnaik on Monday rubbished reports of intelligence failure on Saturday’s riots in the Azad Maidan area here and asserted there was enough force to control the mob. They had intelligence reports that the protest might turn ugly, prompting them to deploy additional forces.
“Otherwise when do you see a Joint Commissioner [Law and Order], four Deputy Commissioners and an Additional Commissioner on the field in uniform on a holiday for a protest rally,” he asked. A force of around 750 personnel was enough to control mobs running to more than 50,000 people, he claimed. There were around 15,000-20,000 protesters present near the Azad Maidan.
Mr. Patnaik said violence erupted at 3.17 p.m. and the situation was brought under control by 3.40 p.m.
Asked why force was not used earlier to control the rioters, he said the police showed utmost restraint. “Should I have fired, I don’t know. Would you have wanted to see 500 bodies? I was more afraid of my force when 500 jawans were ready to fire, with hands on the triggers. I had to control them first, then turn to the protesters,” Mr. Patnaik told journalists after holding a special meeting with senior officers.
Mr. Patnaik was on the spot within minutes of the situation turning violent. He addressed the crowd from the dais of the rally and appealed for calm, reminding people of the incidents during the 1992 Babri Masjid demolition. The police chief told them he did not want any repetition of those ghastly memories, thus calming down the crowds.
Muslim leaders tendered apologies to him on Monday and expressed their desire to help the injured police personnel. “All the Ulema had come to apologise. That is because they know that the police acted with equity and fair play,” he said.
A magisterial inquiry had been ordered into the police firing and a special investigation team set up to probe the incident.
Officers of the cyber crime unit would be associated with the probe. Many morphed images were circulated among the gathering to oppose the “atrocities” on Muslims in Assam and Myanmar.
So far, 23 persons had been arrested.
Officials said they were looking into whether underworld elements were present among the rioters.
Mr. Patnaik said they were of the opinion that it was not the protesters who were involved in the arson. “It was another mob that came from outside. We have not yet been able to identify the group. But we are going through CCTV footage and the footage provided by camerapersons.”

domain: sociology


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The game lasts five rounds, and one of the suits is wild each round. Each player starts with a hand of five cards, and players play simultaneously, drawing and discarding one card until someone is able to go out. Once a player does so, each other player has one final turn; for each card that a player can’t match, she receives a packrat chip. If players tie for treasure chests after five rounds, the player with the fewest packrat chips wins.
All prices are AUD inclusive of GST

domain: game


Xiaomi will be unveiling a new device on April 23, 2015. The product will be announced on the Global mi phone premiere in New Delhi in which CEO Lei Jun, president Bin Lin, and VP (global) Hugo Barra will participate. There is not much information about the new phone.
Xiaomi earlier added more sellers like Amazon and SnapDeal to their list in India. Xiaomi Partners with Snap Deal and Amazon–Get Mi 4 products with INR 2000 Discount
On the same day when MI will announce its new phone, Asus will be launching much awaited Zenfone 2 in India too.
The world’s first 4GB RAM smartphone. The features of the new phone
5.5 inch display , 1280x720, 267 ppi, Corning Gorilla Glass 3
64-bit Intel Atom Quad Core Z3580 (2.3GHz) /64-bit (1.8GHz) Intel Atom Quad Core Z3560 (1.8GHz) processor
16/32/64 GB internal storage
ASUS WebStorage 5GB (lifetime)
MicroSD card support up to 64GB
13 MP rear camera and 5 Megapixel front camera
Android 5.0 Lollipop
Available in Black/White/Red/Gray/Gold colors
The model which will be announced in India will be Asus Zenfone 2 ZE551ML. The other variants which have 2GB of RAM may be available in India in future, as they will be cheaper than the 551ML model.
Source IBNlive, AndroidPure


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Zinc is an essential micronutrient that we may not think about every day. It is considered a trace mineral, meaning we only need a small amount daily. Recommendations for women are about 9 mg/day and men 11 mg/day.
While we only require a small amount daily, zinc plays several crucial roles. Zinc is essential in periods of rapid growth, sensing taste and smell, and about one hundred enzymes in the body use it to carry out chemical reactions. Zinc is also vital for wound healing, the creation of DNA, cell growth, protein building, and supporting the immune system. While zinc won’t cure a cold, if you start to experience symptoms, it may help reduce the severity and duration.
You will find zinc in shellfish, animal proteins, nuts, legumes, seeds, whole grains, fortified cereals, and supplements. While it is always recommended to get our nutrients through foods first, supplements are available to fill in the gaps. Excessive supplementation, however, can interfere with the absorption of copper and iron. So, be sure to work with your doctor if taking a zinc supplement and consult a registered dietitian to improve zinc intake through food sources.

domain: health


Moruya Street Kitchen co-founder Nicky Axisa has stressed the importance of removing the stigma of homelessness and living rough, and has urged the public to donate food and Christmas gifts.
Donations would be directly delivered to those who need it, or would become available at upcoming community BBQs on November 24 and special Christmas event on December 15. Anyone is welcome.
Groceries, shoes, clothes and more would be available.
To keep the street kitchen running, Ms Axisa has called for donations.
This included baked beans, spaghetti, 2 minute noodles, tin veggies and soup, canned or packaged fruit, muesli bars, washing powder, pasta, rice, pasta sauces, long-life milk, sugar sachets, chips, canned fish, Vegemite, jams, biscuits, spam in a can, pasta packets and anything non perishable.
The drop off zone is Campbell Page, Moruya, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm or the Bay Post/Moruya Examiner office, 30C Orient St, Batemans Bay.
Free community Christmas BBQ
Moruya Street Kitchen will also hold a special free community Christmas BBQ at River Park, Moruya, from 3.30pm, December 15.
"Moruya Street Kitchen volunteers have created a safe space to come together as a community and enjoy a beautiful range of home-cooked meals contributed by our volunteers and community," Ms Axisa said.
"We also have groceries to take home, shoes, clothes, Christmas gifts and much more so bring a bag with you to take some goodies home."
She requested donations of small, wrapped gifts to help anyone struggling at this time, labelling them appropriately for adults/children, male/female.
"We understand this time is a trying time for all, so anything helps," Ms Axisa said.
"It's more about receiving and giving, to put a smile on humans faces that don't have a lot to smile about."
Everyone does it tough
Ms Axisa said people of all ages find it tough to cope with the everyday expenses and life battles: "It is not just families or single parents, people suffering drug or alcohol addiction, it is also our elderly".
"The age bracket of the elderly does not mean they are not faced with challenges other ages might face," Ms Axisa said.
"Sometimes it is a result of the loss of a partner at an elderly age. Home-cooked meals can become a thing of the past.
"We can suffer these circumstances at any age, time or place. Homelessness and tough times are not age or gender biased."


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- Special Sections
- Public Notices
Jonathan and Erin Young of Lawrenceburg announce the birth of their daughter, Peyton Michael Young, born on July 25, 2012, at Hardin Memorial Hospital.
She weighed 6 pounds, 15 ounces, and was 19 1/2 inches long.
Maternal grandparents are Nicholas and Robin Moore of Lawrenceburg. Maternal great-grandparents are John and Sandy Carter.
Paternal grandparents are the Rev. Darrell and Shad Young of Murray. Ky. Paternal great-grandparents are James and Ann Young.
If you currently subscribe or have subscribed in the past to the Anderson News, then simply find your account number on your mailing label and enter it below.
Click the question mark below to see where your account ID appears on your mailing label.
If you are new to the award winning Anderson News and wish to get a subscription or simply gain access to our online content then please enter your ZIP code below and continue to setup your account.


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UMD Professor Receives $457K STEM Grant
The National Science Foundation has awarded UMass Dartmouth Associate Professor of STEM Education and Teacher Development Walter Stroup a $457,755 grant to develop new strategies for middle school and high school teachers to excite their students about science, technology, engineering and math careers.
Dr. Stroup and his colleagues envision classrooms where students engage in collaborative problem solving projects – untangling traffic jams or mapping the potential spread of the Zika virus – using math and science skills and knowledge.
“Young people are curious, creative, and social beings so it only makes sense to get them into a hands-on problem solving endeavor with their peers,’’ Dr. Stroup said. “They will be motivated to learn the math and science needed to succeed in their mission.”
Dr. Stroup’s main collaborator is University of Texas College of Education Associate Professor Anthony Petrosino. Dr. Stroup joined the UMass Dartmouth faculty in September after working with Dr. Petrosino for several years.
The project, based at UMass Dartmouth’s Kaput Center for Research and Innovation in STEM Education, focuses on collaborative, interactive, cloud-based instruction and learning. The goal is to demonstrate how network-supported, group-based learning grounded in the principles of Generative Design can improve learning outcomes for all learners, across racial and ethnic backgrounds.
--UMass Dartmouth release


In this post, I'll concentrate on food. No, not the endless country pub meals of steak and chips, but the cuisine that consists of rainforest flora, both dead and alive. Of course, the substrate is alive with arthropods of huge diversity, but I wasn't digging down to find them. Insects made their appetite evident in the eaten leaves of many plants, but this is a particularly nice example of insect herbivory:
This is a beetle gallery, the result of bark beetles boring through the outer bark of the tree, then eating tunnels through the cambium layer beneath. Here the bark has been shed.
The great consumers of dead (and sometimes living) plant material are the fungi. What we see above ground or on the surface of logs are just the fruiting bodies. Beneath, there are kilometres of minutely thin filaments digesting and breaking down wood and other organic matter, converting it into a form that's usable by bacteria. Bulburin boasts some spectacular specimens.
Next post: Lichen.


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That’s an intense little girl you’ve got there.
– Emma and Frank discuss how Jordan takes after her father
Saturn Dreaming of Mercury is a delightfully odd little episode. As with Borrowed Time, it feels like Chip Johannessen is letting his own esoteric interests bleed into the third season to create something delightfully odd – a companion piece to scripts like Force Majeure or Maranatha. It is a script that is so abstract that it almost feels impressionistic – a collection of themes and ideas that are not firmly tethered together, but which instead provide a kaleidoscopic sampling of Millennium‘s core concepts. Children, evil, seeing, family, chaos.
Even the name of the episode has an almost lyrical quality. Saturn Dreaming of Mercury sounds almost poetic, recalling those abstract classic Star Trek titles like For the World is Hollow and I Have Touched the Sky. It is the kind of television title that don’t see very often, the kind that offers little indication as to the content of the episode, while evoking a lot of the tone. (The tone here would seem to be weirdness.) However, there would seem to be some small trace of logic behind the title.
The title alludes to astrology, perhaps reflecting some of the research that Johannessen did for Luminary during the second season. In particular, the planet Saturn is typically associated with time and maturity. As Ruth Aharoni writes in Karmic Astrology:
A person upon whom Saturn has a positive influence has amassed experience and achieved maturity and understanding of the ways of the world. The qualities that are typical of such a person are seriousness, caution, practical knowledge, conservativeness, responsibility, efficiency, modesty, and the ability to make do with little.
Yet Saturn’s negative influence is manifested in rigidity, hesitancy, shrinking from newness and change, fears, and guilt feelings imprinted upon the soul from previous incarnations. In addition, in this incarnation, Saturn’s negative influence is manifested in emotional suppression and blockages.
This makes sense. The Roman god Saturn came to be associated with the passage of time because his festival was traditionally positioned in December. It seemed an adequate point at which mark the end of the previous year and await the arrival of the next.
Mercury is positioned in opposition to Mercury. While the astrological idea of “Saturn returning” is associated the transition to maturity (arriving for a person in their late twenties and late fifties), Mercury is associated with a much earlier transition towards adolescence. According to David Frawley in The Astrology of Seers:
Mercury is a child and indicates the state of childhood generally, particularly the period between infancy and adolescence. Afflictions to Mercury may mean health problems in childhood, troubles in the home life, or difficulty at school.
Again, this reflects Mercury’s place in the Roman pantheon. Mercury is a god who can trace his origins to the Greek god Hermes, who allegedly was pulling pranks on Apollo while he was still in the crib. Given Mercury’s legendary speed and energy, it is no wonder that the god and the planet have become associated with both youth and transition.
In astrological terms, the relationship between Saturn and Mercury is quite striking. The two are inexorably linked by the idea of time and transition. Mercury is the transition from childhood to adolescence, Saturn is the transition to adulthood and maturity. This symbolism plays itself out across their relationship, as Erin Sullivan suggests in Saturn in Transit:
Hermes-Mercury is the guardian of crossroads, of liminal spaces. He is the god of journeyers, and as the mythic psychopompos, had the special task of escorting the souls of the departed to Hades. His function in the mind is to descend into the unconscious and bring forth information to be processed in the conscious mind. Saturn’s function is to repress information and keep it static, so it remains forever bound and crystallised. Whereas Saturn is the boundary, Mercury is the transition, the liminal space between; Saturn is the temporal realm and Mercury is atemporal, so incorporating the two defines a boundary in time. Both are terminus gods; however, Mercury is a transitional, crossroads point, whereas Saturn is an ultimate limit or boundary.
As such, the title of Saturn Dreaming of Mercury alludes to the two very different astrological symbols engaging with one another; to maturity and wisdom looking back on the volatility of youth. It is a very poetic title, and certainly an evocative image. It captures a lot of experimental weirdness at work in some of the show’s strongest moments.
Of course, the title of the episode is referring to its two central characters. Frank Black is very clearly Saturn, particularly with his now completely grey hair emphasing his age and maturity. Lance Henriksen would have been fifty-eight when filming Saturn Dreaming of Mercury, suggesting that he might be enjoying the second return of Saturn in his life-time. Jordan Black is very much Mercury, a young girl on the very edge of adolescence – about to make the transition away from childhood innocence.
It is not surprise that Saturn Dreaming of Mercury emphasises Jordan’s creeping maturity. Early in the episode, Frank has to deal with the fact that she might no longer need him to drive her to school. He also worries about the possibility that Jordan might have developed an “imaginary friend” who is named Simon. “That would be all right for a three–year–old,” Frank explains to Emma at one point, suggesting that Frank is just as afraid of Jordan not growing up as he is about her growing up.
When Jordan develops a fixation on the new kid at school, various female characters are quick to suggest attraction might be playing a part. “Teasing is mixed up with rough housing,” the principal explains to Frank. “It’s mixed up with attraction.” When Frank mentions the fixation to Emma, she teases, “Is he cute?” She adds, “I’m not trying to butt in, it’s just… eight–year–old girls… I’ve got a niece that age, and of course I was that age, once.” It looks like we might have finally found a member of the Hollis family not steeped in tragedy.
Of course, the idea of Jordan growing up is an understandable source of unease for Frank. Jordan has been beginning to display the same “gift” that drove Frank mad – no less than three times, as he repeatedly pointed out in … Thirteen Years Later. The show has been dropping hints about Jordan since Dead Letters at the start of the first season. Stories like Sacrament and Siren only reinforce the sense that Jordan will have a long and hard life ahead of her. It makes sense for the show to return to that theme in its third season.
The idea that Frank wants to protect Jordan from the horrors of the world has been baked into Millennium since The Pilot, with Frank’s horrific visions of human depravity serving as an effective metaphor. Chip Johannessen is undeniably interested in Frank’s reaction to Jordan’s developing gift. His script for Walkabout explored Frank’s investigations into medication that might help to protect Jordan from the sensory overload that constantly threatened to overwhelm him.
Appropriately enough, Johannessen’s script for Saturn Dreaming of Mercury returns to the eye imagery that populates the third season. Although not strong enough to representing an over-arching theme spanning a messy season of television, eyes are a recurring motif. Chip Johannessen introduced the imagery in his first script of the season, Exegesis, and carried it over to Skull and Bones. Forcing the End made the theme more explicit, using two interlinked ouroboros images to form a set of eyes.
Here, it is revealed that the Sanderson family collect “antique” glass eyes – a suitably eerie visual even before the characters begin interacting with them. The glass eyes are more than just an unsettling visual; they become more and more pronounced as the show continues. Frank, Jordan and Calvin Scranton are all intrigued by the set that stands in the hall. Over the course of the episode, it is revealed that something is staring through them. The camera repeatedly cuts to the greyed-out perspective of the eyes.
During the death of Judy Scranton, it initially seems like a demonic force is observing the action through the glass eye. Then it is revealed that Jordan was having a nightmare about the car accident. Or was it both? Is it possible that both Jordan and a more malevolent force are looking through the eye simultaneously? Or is Jordan looking through the eyes of the malevolent force looking through the glass eye. Once again, perspective seems to be the key here. The act of seeing is itself important.
This is in keeping with Johannessen’s approach to Frank’s unique insight – in interviews, the writer has discussed how he would label Frank’s visions as “HIS INTERNAL POV” or “HIS SUBJECTIVE POV.” This idea of perspective plays throughout Saturn Dreaming of Mercury, and is even reflected in the title. Frank cannot entirely understand or comprehend Jordan; all he can do is attempt to see the world in the way that she sees in. Indeed, the closing scene of Saturn Dreaming of Mercury suggests that it might not be terrible that Frank and Jordan share some perspective.
“Do you see, daddy?” Jordan asks as she stares at the demonic form in the window of the burning Sanderson house. Frank replies, “Yeah, I see it.” It may not be the most touching of shared moments between father and daughter, but it does suggest that – in spite of all that may come between them – Frank and Jordan do share something profound and personal. Much is made of the fact that Emma cannot see anything, despite having spent a significant stretch of the season as a surrogate daughter figure to Frank. They will never share the connection Frank has with Jordan.
“See what?” Emma asks. When she gets no answer, she repeats, “See what, Frank?” In the episode’s coda, Emma voices her frustration with her inability to share in Frank’s visions. “I am so tired of stumbling through this with you,” she complains. “Not seeing, not knowing, not anything. I didn’t get into this to be a delivery boy, even for you.” Frank insists, “Emma, I see what I’m allowed to see. Just like everyone else. I didn’t see anything. Neither did Jordan.” Emma’s feeling of exclusion is palpable.
It is a nice touch, and one that gives the sense that Emma’s character arc is beginning to come together. Skull and Bones teased the idea that Emma might find herself recruited into the Millennium Group. However, Saturn Dreaming of Mercury does more to advance this particularly character thread than Emma’s interactions with Peter Watts in episodes like Matryoshka or Forcing the End. The series finally offers an exploration for why Emma might be tempted to join the Group.
After all, the second season already offered Frank an “induction” story, as Frank found himself drawn deeper and deeper into the Millennium Group. If the show is going to set Emma Hollis on an equivalent course, it needs to carefully distinguish her arc from that of Frank. Saturn Dreaming of Mercury suggests that Emma’s arc is essentially the opposite of Frank’s arc: Frank joined the Group to control and mitigate his gift, Emma joins the Group because she wants to harness and grow that sort of gift.
All this suggests that Millennium might finally be getting a grip on how to write Emma Hollis, after some awkward missteps in episodes like Closure and Human Essence. With Saturn Dreaming of Mercury, the show seems to have figured out how Emma might actually work as a major character. Indeed, her interactions with both Frank (and Jordan) in Saturn Dreaming of Mercury feel more comfortable and organic than her interactions with Frank outside of … Thirteen Years Later.
In fact, the third season kicks Emma’s story arc into high gear with the introduction of James Hollis in Darwin’s Eye. It feels like Emma’s character arc is perhaps a little too concentrated in the final third of the season, and that the character might have benefited if the arc had been established much earlier in the year. Then again, with all the chaos unfolding behind the scenes, it makes sense that the third season found itself struggling to make up for lost time. The final stretch of the year has its issues, but it’s never as boring as some of the earlier episodes.
Still, Emma Hollis is very clearly a secondary character in Saturn Dreaming of Mercury. The episode is firmly centred on the relationship between Frank and Jordan Black. Approaching the end of the third year, it is very easy to take that relationship for granted, but Lance Henriksen and Brittany Tiplady work phenomenally well together. There is an ease to their relationship that really sells the sense of a father and daughter who enjoy an easy rapport. Frank is such a sombre and serious figure that seeing him loosen up a bit is incredibly heartening.
There is a lovely moment in the teaser that effectively underscores just how different Frank’s relationship with Jordan is to his relationship to the rest of the world. He is very much the loving father watching Jordan play with her new bike in the driveway, but he slips comfortably back into grumpy paranoiac as soon as he gets an unsolicited phone call. “How did you get my name, anyway?” he demands into the phone. “Well, whoever the hell you are, I want you to take my name off your list.”
In contrast, Frank can playfully joke with Jordan about his age and his childhood. “Did you have to wear this when you were little?” Jordan asks as he fits her helmet. “They didn’t have plastic when I was a little boy,” Frank replies. When Jordan asks what they used to make bicycle helmets, Frank jokes, “Dinosaur bones.” It is a lovely moment, one that is all the more remarkable for the fact that Frank is not a character known for his playfulness. It really feels like Jordan gets to see a side of Frank that is unique.
This bond between Frank and Jordan reflects itself in other ways across the episode. When the principal calls Frank in to talk about Jordan’s attack on Lucas, Frank is quite careful not to jump to conclusions. He insists on hearing Jordan’s side of the story. “I’d like to ask her what’s going on,” Frank tells the principal. It suggests a very considered and mature relationship between the two. While Frank might be having difficulty with the idea that Jordan is growing up, he still trusts her implicitly.
Saturn Dreaming of Mercury is very much a Jordan-centric episode in the way that The Well-Worn Lock and Anamnesis were Catherine-centric episodes. As such, it relies on Brittany Tiplady more than any other episode. Tiplady is a phenomenal young actress. She worked very well with Megan Gallagher, but she works particularly well with Lance Henriksen. Tiplady skilfully presents a version of Jordan that feels like a child, albeit a child with a rather unique way of looking at the world. It is a very nuanced performance for an actress that young.
It is worth noting that Tiplady’s presence attracted a certain amount of attention to the show. Millennium was very much a horror series, even as it dealt with primarily humans monsters. After the airing of Dead Letters early in the first season, newspapers like The Reading Eagle were quick to draw attention to the youth of the actress:
After shooting a scene in which an evil clown chased her, Brittany said she couldn’t shake her fears once she got home.
“I got kind of scared,” she told TV Guide. “I didn’t want to go upstairs and put my pajamas on or anything. I had nightmares.”
For her part, Tiplady has suggested that her words were twisted by the interviewer. In Make-Believing in Jordan Black, Tiplady argues that the interview was slanted so as to support a preexisting bias; as a young actress, it was very much a learning experience about how to deal with the press.
The production staff on Millennium were very careful to keep Tiplady insulated from potentially disturbing content. Her parents played their own part. As a rule, Tiplady was only exposed to the parts of the show that absolutely required her involvement. As she discussed in Make-Believing in Jordan Black, that extended to home viewing:
When the show aired on Friday nights on Fox, my parents did the watching. I sat in the rec room, watching TGIF on ABC and waiting for my parents to call, “Brittany, you’re on!” so I could have just enough time to dash to their TV, watch a couple of minutes of myself, and then trot back to my own set to watch what was, in my opinion, a far more interesting episode of Sabrina the Teenage Witch. This was the weekly routine for three years, and I was okay with it. I knew I was on a “scary, adult show”, and that was fine by me.
It is worth noting that Saturn Dreaming of Mercury is very much the exception. It is so Jordan-centric that Tiplady got to read the entire script. Jordan is so essential to the episode that there would have been little point to limit Tiplady’s exposure.
Tiplady excels int the role. She does a great work. A lot of the reason that Saturn Dreaming of Mercury works so well is down to Tiplady’s work in the central role. Giving a young actress such a major role in a prime-time horror television show is a gamble, but it is a gamble that paid off. It is great that the show trusted the actress enough to give her a chance to effectively carry her own episode before the show went off the air. Chip Johannessen, Ken Horton and Chris Carter deserve a lot of credit for taking that risk.
That said, there are problems with Saturn Dreaming of Mercury. The ethereal dream-like atmosphere and tone of the episode is a large part of the appeal, but the episode never really coalesces into something that makes sense. It is suggested that Jordan is being haunted by the spirit of an unborn child who just happens to be the case that Frank is investigating just as the Sanderson family move in down the road who just happen to have a demonic child. It is never entirely clear how all these elements fit together – what the logic behind it all is.
Is this a conscious attempt to force a confrontation with Frank Black? Why (or how) is Lucas able to trick Jordan into believing that his father is a monster? How does Jean Sanderson fit into all of this? What is the end game here? Saturn Dreaming of Mercury has a fairly low body count, with only two on-screen deaths – those of Judy Scranton and Will Sanderson. It all feels decidedly muddled and hazy. It is hard to imagine where those demonic forces hoped to be at the end of the episode.
However, Saturn Dreaming of Mercury never feels quite as muddled as something like Antipas. There is a sense that the weird dream-logic tethering the whole episode together fits comfortably with the mood of the piece. After all, the episode is titled “Saturn Dreaming of Mercury.” There is an implied ambiguity there, a level of confusion and abstraction that feels like a selling point as much as a handicap. The characters even pause at the end of the episode to acknowledge that there is no way to tie everything together in a way that makes sense.
“The fingerprints off the shears came back from the lab,” Hollis tells Frank in the closing scene. “They match the prints of the dead baby in Phoenix, the one Mrs. Simon was carrying. Even though he technically died unborn, the father named him on the death certificate. Lucas. Guess it doesn’t surprise you.” Frank replies, simply and bluntly, “You’re looking for an explanation – I don’t have one.” Frank seems to be speaking for the script itself, one big “I dunno.” It really is just elements that fit together through something approaching stream of consciousness.
Instead, the episode very skilfully and very articulately explores its own themes and ideas. Saturn Dreaming of Mercury is essentially a story about a father dealing with his daughter’s transition towards adolescence, and the idea that the way that you see the world changes as you change yourself. Beyond that, Saturn Dreaming of Mercury aspires towards atmosphere and mood. Its imagery is evocative rather than descriptive, its storytelling abstract more than linear.
It is very hard to make sense of Saturn Dreaming of Mercury in a linear plot-driven fashion. It is suggested that Lucas Saunderson is some sort of demonic entity, but his connection to Lucas Simon is never made clear. The episode includes a quick shot of Lucy Butler, suggesting that this is just another iteration of Frank’s demonic adversary – another facet of the nebulous evil that the show christened as “Legion” back in The Judge. However, it is very hard to see what exactly these demonic forces were hoping to accomplish, or how they would accomplish it.
Then again, that is one of the more interesting facets of the over-arching mythology of Millennium. The show never quite had the sense of continuity and internal consistency that fans expected from The X-Files. The mythology on The X-Files could get muddled and convoluted, but it generally made a certain amount of sense either in the moment or from a great enough distance; it was connecting the two that was often a problem. In contrast, Millennium had a great deal of trouble fashioning its larger thematic arcs into a mythology.
This was quite apparent in the show’s difficulty with the Millennium Group, an organisation that was redefined twice across the show’s three seasons. However, at least the handling of Millennium Group was generally consistent with the season around it. The story thread involving Lucy Butler and the demonic forces at work in the world seemed to vary from episode to episode. The second season emphasised this tonal whiplash by broadcasting A Room With No View and Somehow Satan Got Behind Me back-to-back.
The demonic mythology of Millennium was never going to coalesce in the same way that the alien mythology had come together on The X-Files. Part of this is down to the fact that Millennium went through three creative teams in three years, preventing any material consistency between the various seasons. However, part of this is also down to the fact that demons are probably a lot more mercurial than aliens. Aliens are typically considered to be science-fiction concept, and so are governed by rules and structures associated with the genre; demons are more free-form.
So the problems with Saturn Dreaming of Mercury feel more like stylistic quirks than fatal flaws. It is a very impressionistic episode, one that touches on the core themes of Millennium without getting too bogged down in the internal logic of the story. It is packed with memorable imagery, and puts the focus on one of the show’s strongest relationships. It represents a third season highlight, and proof that it might have been possible to construct a more stable and interesting show if the creative forces were willing to take more chances in the show’s final year.
Filed under: Millennium | Tagged: abstract, Adolescence, astrology, brittany tiplady, Chip Johannessen, eyes, jordan black, millennium, mood, perspective, plotting, saturn dreaming of mercury, Television |


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From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
This novel is a story of cultural conflict between the Inuit of Northern Quebec and white men, set in the 1940s. It is told from the perspective of the main character Agaguk, an Inuit man. Agaguk diverges from his tribe with a woman named Iriook. Through their journeys, Yves Thériault explores Agaguk’s mastery of nature as well as the general relationship between the Inuit and the tundra. Furthermore, by describing the conflicts with the white men, the themes of alcoholism, assimilation as well as economic and judicial injustice are thoroughly explored. The personal aspect of the novel also allows for an intriguing analysis of Agaguk and his behaviour towards his wife in particular.
Awards and nominations
Grand Prix de la Province de Québec.
The novel was made into a movie with the title Shadow of the Wolf by Jacques Dorfmann in 1992, with Lou Diamond Phillips, Toshirô Mifune, Jennifer Tilly, Bernard-Pierre Donnadieu, and Donald Sutherland. The screenplay was written by Evan Jones.
|This article about a 1950s novel is a stub. You can help Wikipedia by expanding it.|

domain: library


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Copper stimulates the proliferation and migration of endothelial cells and is required for the secretion of several angiogenic factors by tumour cells. Copper chelation decreases the secretion of many of these factors. Serum copper levels are upregulated in many human tumours and correlate with tumour burden and prognosis.
Copper chelators reduce tumour growth and microvascular density in animal models. New orally active copper chelators have enabled clinical trials to be undertaken, and there are several studies ongoing. A unifying mechanism of action by which copper chelation inhibits endothelial cell proliferation and tumour secretion of angiogenic factors remains to be elucidated, but possible targets include copper-dependent enzymes, chaperones, and transporters.

domain: chemistry


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Jack Stephens: 8th December, 1952 - 14th May, 2015
Remembered by Ian Keable
One of this country's top children entertainers, Jack Stephens, has sadly died at the far too early age of 62 after a short illness. Jack was one of those people born to entertain children. Naturally cheerful and exuberant himself, he passed that enthusiasm directly on to those he performed magic for.
Not limiting himself to magic, Jack's formal show comprised making balloon animals, puppets and singing and playing the guitar. He had a relaxed style, getting the children's attention through his personality and skills - not relying on loud music, raising his voice or resorting to questionable humour. Children adored him, both on and off stage, not just for his magic but also for his 'silly' jokes.
Jack was born in December, 1952 and came over to England from his native South Africa in 1980. He lived and worked for a travel company, for ten years in London; but when he and his wife in 1990 decided to move to Wiltshire, Jack took the opportunity to turn professional. In his career as a children's entertainer he worked in all arenas from libraries, school groups, weddings, cruise ships as well as private parties. So successful was his business, that he set up an agency to pass on work he could not do himself.
Jack enjoyed writing and contributed many articles and reviews to various publications - including MagicWeek. Looking at some of his back catalogue on this site - whether it be a magician he saw on a cruise ship, a television recording he attended or a review of a magic DVD - one is struck how positive and upbeat he is about what he has seen. He never saw it as his role to criticise his colleagues.
His top magic moment might well have been performing for the Queen with close-up magic at a private lunch party. However his reminiscences about a young boy picking up his magic wand, and tapping everything in the room to see what would happen to them, is surely a greater legacy to his skills. As Jack himself wrote: "I thought this a beautiful moment and so very magical." You can read this story and more about him in the Magic Profile he wrote in 2006.
However nothing sums up better Jack's love of children and entertaining with magic than the fact that he worked regularly for POD Children's Charity, which organises entertainment for children in hospital and hospices. The administrator calculated that Jack had performed magic for nearly 5,000 children in Bath, Bristol and Swindon. He truly believed in the therapeutic benefit of laughter and magic.
Jack leaves his wife Rosemary, who will continue to run his agency, and two children, Caroline and Susie - both of whom are expert balloon modellers in their own right.
Ian Keable, May 2015

domain: entertainment


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Before shopping malls and giant parking lots, the Christmas season in Stockton always meant a trip downtown to see the window displays. Stores used elaborate exhibits to draw customers for the holidays. Delmar McComb fondly remembers the Breuner’s windows, famous for its moving musical Christmas display. The life-size figures wore authentic costumes depicting seasonal scenes from the era of John Breuner’s first store founded in Sacramento in 1856.
Window displays date back to the early 1880’s, when the use of plate glass made store windows possible. Pioneer stores, such as Yosemite Cash Store and Holden Drug Store, provided for Stockton’s earliest window displays. Specialty clothing and apparel stores, especially along Main Street, found success in advertising their merchandise in the windows. Department stores of the early 1900’s, such as Stockton Dry Goods and Hale’s, relied on crowded displays to advertise the value of their items to pedestrians.
Franchised department stores of the 1920’s began artistically exhibiting only a few choice items in their windows. Stockton’s first franchised department store was Woolworths, followed by Owl Drug Company, J.C. Penney, Kress and others. Clothing stores, such as Katten-Marengo, Bravo McKeegan, Mode O’Day and the Wonder also used elegant window displays. As we continue to redevelop our downtown, let’s remember the historical significance and potential influence of those storefronts.
This article was first published in the Downtown Stockton Alliance in December 2007.


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Wouldn’t it be wonderful if the primary measure of success in the world was based on how happy we all are.
Instead success is measured by quantifiable elements such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP) ie stuff we produce and by the amount of stuff we consume. Happiness is thus flung into the “wishy washy” pile and often classified as less serious, superficial and lightweight.
At a time when depression and suicide are on the rise – currently 300m people worldwide are suffering from depression – this is disturbing. A recent report by the World Health Organisation predicted that if nothing is done, by 2030 depression will be the number one illness in the world.
Happiness is often defined as the presence of positive emotions and the absence of negative ones. It is certainly never achieved purely by the presence of money!
Associating the state of being happy merely with being cheerful all the time creates another challenge. Research shows that “faking” happiness can result in long-term physical and emotional illness.
Happiness is not just about developing positive emotions, it has two other constituent parts: purpose and resilience. Having a clear and meaningful purpose is a key element in sustaining long-term happiness. And because negative emotions are an integral part of life, developing resilience is the third highly essential component of happiness, as it enables us to deal effectively with negative emotions when they arise.
As more and more jobs in the future will rely on artificial intelligence it is essential that we equip our young people with the resilience and emotional intelligence necessary to cope in a very different world.
Too many find life challenging and say they can’t cope, but the jobs of the future will require much more emotional intelligence to complement the sophisticated machines we work with. Schools need to seriously consider playing a role in developing students’ emotional intelligence and well-being.
Employers too can play their part as workplaces, where employees are happy and fulfilled, can mean increased productivity and turnover.
There will always be a need for human connection and this will be more successful with positive, purposeful and resilient people.
People pretending to be happy is of no benefit to anyone.
If you are concerned about how you can achieve the things that make YOU happy, do call us for a friendly chat. You might be surprised about what a bit of money coaching can do!

domain: psychology


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The bear and the dragon
by Clancy, Tom, 1947-2013.
|Format:||Large Print 2000|
|Availability:||Available at 1 Library 3 of 4 copies|
Time and again, Tom Clancy's novels have been praised not only for their big-scale drama and propulsive narrative drive, but for their cutting-edge prescience in predicting future events. In THE BEAR AND THE DRAGON, the future is very near at hand indeed. Newly elected in his own right, Jack Ryan has found that being President has gotten no easier. Domestic pitfalls await him at every turn, there's a revolution in Liberia, the Asian economy is going down the tubes, and now, in Moscow, someone may have tried to take out the chairman of the SVR - the former KGB - with a rocket - propelled grenade. Things are unstable enough in Russia without high-level assassination, but even more disturbing may be the identities of the potential assassins. Were they political enemies, the Russian Mafia, disaffected former KGB? Or, Ryan wonders, is something far more dangerous at work here? Ryan is right. For even wile he dispatches his most trusted eyes and ears, including black ops specialist John Clark, to find out the truth of the matter, forces in China are moving ahead with a plan of truly audacious proportions. If they succeed, the world as we know it will never look the same. If they fail...the consequences will be unspeakable. Blending the exceptional realism and authenticity that are his hallmarks with intricate plotting, razor-sharp suspense and a remarkable cast of characters, this is Clancy at his best - and ther is none better.
Published ReviewsBooklist Review: "
Publisher's Weekly Review: "
John Clark series
Jack Ryan makes a cameo appearance in Without Remorse"
#1 - Without remorse
#2 - Rainbow six
#3 - The Bear and the dragon
-- Sr. (Fictitious character)
International relations -- Fiction.
World politics -- Fiction.
Presidents -- United States -- Fiction.
Large type books.
|Publisher|| New York :Random House Large Print,2000
|Edition||1st large print ed.|
1494 pages (large print) ; 25 cm


Chapter VI Establishment and Administration of Test Questions Bank
The Central Competent Authority shall establish test questions bank and designate personnel in charge of test questions administration for exclusively administering test questions for skills certification.
Personnel referred to in the preceding paragraph shall keep confidential.
Persons selected and appointed to compose test questions bank of each job category shall meet one of the following conditions:
1. Those who are or were working as assistant professors or above at universities and have had more than five years of teaching experience in related field.
2. Those who have a university or higher degree and have had more than ten years of teaching experience in related job categories.
3.Those who have the degree of junior college or higher, are now or were in a managerial position for more than five years or non-managerial position for more than eight years of technical department or training department at government agencies or institutions related to job categories for skills certification and with registration document in accordance with related statutes.
4. Those who have the degree of senior (vocational) high school or higher, have technician certificate of the highest class provided in relation to job categories for skills certification, have engaged in on-site or training work related to the job categories for more than ten years.
5. Those who are recommended by the competent authority or the competent authority of related business at any level.
When persons of composing test questions bank for special job categories cannot be selected or appointed in accordance with the preceding paragraph, the preceding paragraph shall not apply.
The number of persons to compose test questions bank for each job category shall be no less than six persons but not exceeding ten persons. Each person can be appointed to compose test questions bank for each job category only.
The Central Competent Authority may request the competent authorities of related business, schools, institutions and organizations to make recommendations when selecting and appointing persons referred to in the preceding article; persons who are selected and appointed shall be issued an appointment letter of composing test questions bank.
The effective period of the appointment letter referred to in the preceding paragraph is from the date of appointment to December 31 of the year.
Persons of composing test questions bank shall keep confidential about undisclosed test questions and related information and materials possessed and learned from their participation in the composing process, and shall also not leak or use the foresaid information and materials for publishing books or printing out handouts.
When persons having one of the following situations shall not selected and appointed to compose test questions bank, and those already selected and appointed shall be dismissed:
1. Investing in or running such profit units as tutoring schools related to job categories.
2. Working as staffs or tutors at such profit units as tutoring schools related to job categories for skills certification.
3. Violating the preceding article.
Persons composing test questions in the question data bank shall not apply for the skills certification of related job categories during the period of composition of test questions in the question data bank and test questions in use. However, the foresaid provision shall not apply if the period of test questions being used has been over two years.
During the period of composing test questions for the question data bank and test questions in use referred to in the preceding paragraph, persons composing test questions in the question data bank shall recuse themselves in any of the following cases:
1.Examinees as spouses, ex-spouses, blood relatives within the top four degrees of kinship, or marital relatives within the top three degrees of kinship of the persons of composing test questions in the question data bank.
2.There is concrete evidence showing that they are likely to be partial when executing their duties.
The preceding article shall apply to those in violation of the two preceding paragraphs.
The written or field test questions shall be sealed by the personnel in charge of test questions bank and signed by the collector of each written or field test administration unit after confirming the exact quantity or handed secretly over to the head of each administration unit.
Persons involved of written or field test administration unit shall keep confidential in the process of test questions collection, printing and delivery.
The Central Competent Authority shall publicly announce the job categories and classes of which the written or field tests shall be kept confidential.