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With playfully surreal fashion jewelry design, this collection is an expression of the encounter between Delfina’s artistic approach and the historic Roman Maison. This daring collection brings together the Eye, one of Delfina’s signature design motifs, and Fur, Fendi’s symbol and icon. Swarovski crystals, mink and fox furs combine to create an assortment of bracelets, ear cuffs, brooches and rings that replicate the FENDI Spring/Summer 2014 fashion collection.
Shop these fabulous cuffs and other amazing accessories at the FENDI boutique located on the second level of The Shops at Crystals.
Inspired by an archival flap shoulder bag from the late 1940’s, the Gucci Nouveau shoulder bag evokes the effortlessness and movement of the modern day Gucci woman. Lacquered bamboo ornaments, signature maxi stitching and a dry-stoned embossed trademark are a few of the expert details that artisans spend up to two days completing.
Also available, Gucci’s Italian-made red Olimpia Python open-toe bootie with black suede trim and black elastic inserts is just one of the fabulous finds for your spring wardrobe!
Shop the entire Spring 2014 collection at the Gucci boutique located on the second level of The Shops at Crystals.
Valentino's Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaolo Piccioli took opera as their source material when designing their Spring/Summer 2014 ready-to-wear collection. These designs are filled with ornate pieces and ascetic prints in organza embroidered with tiny strips of leather. Add a fabulous tote or sandal and complete your head-to-toe look for Spring!
Shop the entire Spring/Summer 2014 collection at the Valentino boutique located on the second floor of The Shops at Crystals.
This season is a celebration of Versace’s strength-- Shown with ease, rock energy, and effortless luxury. The richness of Versace meets the attitude of the street which creates a fresh reality for day and a powerful statement at night.
The Versace woman is effortless, with 21st century glamour. She’s a real woman who loves luxury. Denim and leather jackets are the new blazer, while raffia skirts have a fresh liberating feel with lots of volume.
Shop the entire Spring collection at the Versace boutique located on the first level of The Shops at Crystals.
Tiffany & Co. presents new Atlas® jewelry with the striking beauty that made this celebrated design a fashion icon. The latest options trace the collection’s signature Roman numerals in designs symbolic of strength and freedom.
The versatility of Atlas® is achieved with graphic elements of utmost integrity that allows them to be shaped into a crisp pattern as distinctive as its inspiration: the Atlas clock that presides over Tiffany’s Fifth Avenue store, located at the crossroads of energy and evolution in the heart of New York City. This elegant pattern shines in new bangles, medallion pendants and band rings, as well as wide cuffs in a weave of numerals. Crafted in 18 karat yellow, white or rose gold, as well as sterling silver, the jewelry generates a sensuous play of light that casts a luster over dressing day and night.


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A 25-year-old prostitute accused of taking a man's car, nearly running him over, leading police on two separate chases and later crashing the car faces a judge today on attempted murder charges.
As previously reported, a man solicited the woman's services at an Eastpointe motel before she took off in his Toyota. He tried to stop her by jumping on the roof -- she slammed on the brakes, causing him to fall off the car.
Now, WDIV and The Macomb Daily reports that in addition to the attempted murder charge, she also faces charges for fleeing and eluding a police officer, possession of a handgun and possession of a stolen vehicle.
The building she crashed into was a post office, which was closed today for repairs.

domain: news


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I opened my eyes as the sunrays touched my face today ! I looked at the alarm clock that displayed 8:30 am as the time. I then got up lazily scratching my hair and in my pyjamas went near the window. Slowly I opened it and a cool breeze greeted my face . It was still quite foggy outside considering it was late winters in India! But the North -Western part of the country always braved the harsh cold wave and though compared to villages, Chandigarh was still better but today it was quite chilly . My heart belonged to Chandigarh , my city where my family , my beautiful house and my entire identity bore resemblance . The wide streets with bushy greenery alongside , the planned junctions , the organized urban planning showcasing the contemporary architecture blending with the old charm of large open gardens with a “charpoi” installed in it where the entire family can gather, chit-chat and have a get together, the ever smiling faces of the people in the city make me believe that probably I might have done something good in my past life to be owned by this city!
I was lost in my thoughts when the calling bell rang.
” Aunty, where is Rishi? He is not answering his calls or messages ! We are here to greet him. Its been so long that we have met!” ,asked Harish with two more young gentlemen dressed in their casuals.
“Ohhh , please come in. He is just tired from jetlag and he is in his room.” My mom answered and before she could finish the statement , I found three of my childhood friends already on my bed, with wide grins and Harish had almost jumped on me! I smiled along and I don’t know the next minute we started discussing topics from past till the present moment. Not even a single moment passed where I could realize that I was away physically from these bunch of three musketeers and with long gaps of absolute lack of communication did not matter . It all seemed futile. We connected instantly and probably this is what friendship is all about. To whole heartedly accept each other , to be part of each other even in the darkest odds, to laugh at each other yet always want the best of each other. Quickly, I took my shower and we headed out to the bustling market areas for some sumptuous brunch and some shopping! We wandered around the lively areas of Sector 17 and Pallika Bazzar before entering into the DLF City Centre Mall where I had to buy a few pair of jeans and have our brunch there.
After landing my hand on my favourite jeans with the right amount of tattered pattern just near the thighs , I wanted to try out the fitting and walked towards the trial room. Just then, I could see a girl rush past me , and quickly entered the only Men’s trial room available and shut the door on my face before showing me her teeth and uttering words like ” please ,please, please”!
“What kind of pathetic behavior is this ? No respect for Rules!! How is this being tolerated in this country ? No wonder this country never progresses.” I was boiling with anger and wanted to bang the door open. But only my civil sense of behaving in the public kept me sane. As I waited outside , it probably took an eternity for the slim framed female to come out. My patience was running out with every passing minute. But I could do nothing!! Soon, she opened the door and gave me her smile in which I was not at all interested. I wanted to make her realize that what she did was wrong ! But , before I could say anything, She said:
“Thanks dude. You look handsome in your Ray ban Aviators.”
What? What is this now? She thinks she will escape using such cheap tactics with me? , I thought to myself!
I went to the Reception and made my point against her, while she was billing. Seeing me in full rage, the receptionist apologized and said they will take care in future. The girl seemed embarrassed when they reprimanded her in a polite manner. She looked at me with her blue eyes and said sorry in a soft voice. That is when I noticed her beauty. She wore a leopard printed top with Jet black jeggings and black boots. She had tied her black hair in a pony tail that was bouncy and was long enough till her waist. She had a fair complexion and her well manicured hands were very pretty that attracted my attention while she was making the payment. I loved her smile as it made two little impressions on her cheeks !
Just then , I saw her leave the counter and before crossing the exit door, she turned and announced ” Hey handsome! Sorry Or May be not !!” and winked at me! This time ,I could not stop myself from smiling and along with me the entire staff at the cash counter along with my friends were also grinning. My friends soon started teasing me ! Well it was as a pattern since our student days as I was one of the popular guys, whom girls wanted to impress all the time. I have had few flings as well but they were all casual as I could never find the true connect that I always searched within.
Well, after a few days, I had to again pack my bags as staying home for long is not something that I can afford to. The moment I received the message, I saw the tears accumulate within the soul of my mother come near the corner of her eyes but they never made their way out ! I never understand how she manages that! She never stops me from going out on any mission. All she does is to embrace me and press me tightly on to her chest where I feel every heart beat for me with so much of pure love and motherly affection, that I heal every time I get that hug.
She took my uniform out of the closet and made me wear it and then she brushed both my shoulders with her hands as a sign of pride. “Captain Rishi Singh” She announced while pinning the name plate on my chest. And every time she does that, every fear, every little anticipation just vanishes. However, I find it very hard to keep my feelings at bay every time I touch her feet before leaving the house. This time was no different!
We rushed to the airport as I had to join the Headquarters as soon as possible. I entered the plane , waved my family a good bye kiss, thereby praying to GOD to let me see them again soon! I reached my headquarters in Delhi and within no time, I joined the platoon that was to be sent to Syria as part of the UN peace keeping mission. It was going to be a tough assignment taking in to the Arab Spring that had made the situation complicated leading to civil unrest and on going conflicts where even countries like Iran, Turkey , Saudi Arabia etc. had involved themselves in the internal political scenario of the country leading to a very chaotic atmosphere. The rebel groups keep bombarding the various cities killing millions of citizens every single day. The soldier in me could only think of doing my duty at the right spirit so that I am able to upheld my vigor and pay tribute to my Motherland and the fulfill the duty that the Uniform demands. All the officers mounted the special army helicopters with all our ammunitions. As I entered it I saw, few female officers in the cabin. They were army doctors and a sense of pride filled my heart seeing their dedication. I felt I saw a similar face but as comrades, I did not want to make the situation uncomfortable. Hence, I refrained myself and concentrated on the mission.
The Helicopter soared higher up in the sky and from the moment we landed in the war- torn nation, there has never been a single moment to breathe the air of solace. Every moment is crucial and one has to be on high alert. It had been almost a week and luckily me and my officers whom I was leading had escaped any injury. It was an achievement in itself as I had vowed that I might die, but not let any of my officers die at least till I breathe.
The days were hard. The burning smell of the grenades, the splash of someone’s blood on your uniform, the dance of death all around, the cries of innocent lives losing near and dear ones, the gorilla tactics of warfare, the strategy to stay alive every single moment made life difficult beyond any explanation. That night it was difficult to sleep for me though I had been awake for past 48 hours. I looked at the ceiling of my tent till it became blurred and I do not know what woke me up. All I could hear was a loud sound of a bomb blast very near my outpost and I had my gun in my hand before I could properly pull my pants up. The announcement happened in a fraction of second:
ALPHA TEAM, Take Charge !!! NOW!!
I , was heading the Alpha Team and I sprung into action immediately so did my men at the command. Not to mention the day was very intense where we exchanged gun fires at the miscreants trying to tear down a part of residential area where many refugee women , children had taken shelter. We as a team gunned down every single one of them and rescued the refugees. But unfortunately one of my officer had been shot on the left side of the chest and I too received a bullet injury at the back of my left shoulder . I cried out for help as I could not see my men die in front of my eyes. Soon stretchers were arranged to take us to the paramedic area for treatment. I accompanied my team mate while holding his hand. He was one of my close mates and all I could hear him say was,” Sir, please tell my wife and my son that I love them. Sir please !! “I held his hands while I could not hold back my tears because I could sense the pain in my team mates eyes.
We entered the designated area for first aid and quickly the doctors attended the patient. I could not maintain my calm while a doctor attended my wound, I shouted while holding both her arms, “Doctor, there is no need to attend me. Just for heaven’s sake, save my friend! I had a fire burning in me and eyes were blood red. Before I could realize , I saw the same blue eyes again!! The ones, that had once made time still. I released my grasp. I recognized her, she was the same lady I had met in Chandigarh few months back!
Suddenly, I hear, “Captain Rishi Singh! Calm down! “,The doctor was holding my hands and pressed it tightly as a sign of comfort. “We are all trying! The blood loss is immense and being shot so deep near the heart is making the operation a complicated one. We need you to trust us! Captain Rishi , are you with us?” I nodded my head, while she patted my back and said, “Good.”
She quickly entered the operation theater and after about three and a half hours, the red signal was off. I rushed to the entrance and I saw the doctor come out. It read Lt. Yamini Sood on her Name plate. The operation had been successful. I was relieved. At least I had not failed my men and breathed a sense of sigh! There was a smile on my face.
“Please open your Uniform!” I heard a voice.
“What?” I asked.
“Your wound is still not treated, there is only a plain bandage that you have wrapped! “The doctor ordered and I did the same. I could not believe, the eyes, that seemed so mischievous in the mall, can be so confident while treating the tattered gun wounds that make it difficult even to look at them. I had almost forgotten my wound. She gently touched my back and cleaned my wounds. A sense of excitement run down me as the soothing touch reminded me that a human being resided in a soldier too that craved for care, empathy and love like any human being!
I thought to myself, “Probably she has forgotten about me. It’s good if she has, in fact!”
Just then I hear a whisper, “Hi, handsome! You look dashing in the Uniform ! But you looked way too cool with your casual look that day!!” I looked at her with surprise while she had brought her face near my ears. Both our eyes met and we both giggled like little children. I felt so alive with her at that moment that I forgot how difficult it had been to survive past few days! I felt a connect!
We soon became close and though it was tough meeting each other, I managed to cross check with her every now and then. She too made every possible effort to squeeze out time from her busy schedule for me and we talked for few minutes whenever we got the chance. The topics were varied and sometimes it did not make any sense but just being with her made every possible sense. She was like the oasis in the barren desert which comforted my soul. I forgot all my pain when she smiled and she too loved my company a lot. We became talk of the group soon and even my seniors would sometimes pull me up during our not- so formal sessions. I would just smile and even Yamini did the same!
That night after our dinner, I went to meet Dr .Yamini only to find out that she had left the base to treat some critically shot patient at the blast site. The situation must have been worse because the doctors leave the base only as the last resort. I was tensed as the radio signal came in live. Dr. Yamini has been injured at the site. Please rush aid. Breaking the protocol, even I accompanied the team of other doctors. My heart was beating faster inside my rib cage and when I saw Yamini, surrounded in blood as a splinter had torn across her calf, the Man in me could not stop myself and I just took her in my arms. The eyes that always dazzled with a spark looked dull and was feeling scared . A feeling that I fail to explain! I could not say a word. I held her hand tightly and looked into her eyes. The Doctors treated her wound while she slowly lost her consciousness due to loss of blood . I panicked but I understood soon that Yamini will be all well as soon as the stich is opened.
Within a few days she was all fine and I had made it a point to visit her daily and ask her requirements, take care of every need, sometime listen to her unnecessary blabber, wipe her emotional tears when she missed home! We were, by then unofficially declared the Best Couple of the Mission though we had never sealed any pact.
That evening I was with my team mates and we were enjoying our chilled beer sessions as the past few days were little less tense with diminishing bombardments. I saw one of my team mates signal me with his eyes and I looked at the door. And what did I see? I see a panting Yamini signaling me to come over!
The moment I went to the door , she held my hand and ran towards the open area , which was little far away from my tent. As we stopped running, before I could ask anything, I find Yamini embrace me in her arms and declare that She loved me ! I did not understand the outburst! While I was suppressing my smile, she was almost in tears, She went on to say that, if she did not propose, Dr. Ruchi would have proposed me and she did not want that to happen!
Little did she know that Dr. Ruchi and I had planned it because, Yamini would never accept the fact that she was in love. Every time I tried to hint, she had avoided the topic. But not today! Today was our day. I heard what I had wanted to. I wanted to make her mine and be hers. I took her face in my arms, wiped her tears and planted a kiss on her forehead before locking my lips with hers. A kiss so passionate that made me forget any inhibition or fear of the future. Yamini too gave in and we were lost in the moment where two souls merge to become one. I did not want the night to end and wished the time to just pause. This was probably the best time in my life that I can never forget! Yamini was in my arms and I was in hers.
Just then, I received a radio message,
Captain Rishi, Prepare to leave for your next mission with your men in next one hour! Hand over this operation to the next group of officers that has just arrived! This is a secret and a very tactical mission!
I wore my Cap and released Yamini from my arms, and kissed her again while announcing ,”Got to go! Official orders.
I saw tears swell up in her eyes, just like they do in my mothers eyes.
It felt as if my breath was heavy and I do not know if this is how you feel while you die. I slowly turned around and marched on towards my tent !
6 Comments Add yours
What a beautiful, touching love story Chinmayee. In fact at many places it gave me a lump in my throat. More than a love story anything that bridges to peep into a soldier’s life, made me so emotional. Very Well written!!!
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Thanks a lot 😊 . Every time I hear from you,it gives me a new zeal to do better.Thank a lot for stopping by and commenting 🙏
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Very heart touching story, the mother bless u to achieve your target, go ahead, …..
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Thank you so much!
Very heart touching story, your story always impressed me whenever I go through it. the mother bless u to achieve your target, go ahead, …..
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Thanks a lot

domain: literature


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May 19, 2017
At the start of the season, we expanded our offering from NanoStitch Lab to include their Kinetic DK base. It is a lovely 100% Merino Superwash with a bouncy twist, so it gives stitches good definition and feels good to knit with. We've chosen a palette of colorful, fun speckles that are light and perky.
Angela and Heather of NanoStitch Lab are from near Seattle, so they're Pacific Northwest Locals! We are excited to announce that they will be at our store Friday, September 15th for a trunk show.
Anne is teaching a hat class in June, Touch of Noir, with a beautiful cable design that pops with the twist of the yarn.

domain: artistic


We are among the prominent names in the industry, engaged in manufacturing, supplying and trading of Steel Almirah in Sundernagar, Himachal Pradesh, India. These products are widely acclaimed by the customers for their longer service life, less maintenance and user friendliness. Our supervisors keep a tight check on the scheduled delivery and manufacturing of the product on time. Optimum quality material sourced by our vendors, are used to manufacture this product.
|Designer||Naresh Steel Furniture|
|Tags||Steel almari, Steel Almirah, Stainless Steel Furniture|
No Projects related to this product
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The lights are on
I will be starting Batman Arkham Asylum this weekend!
Back to Resistance after finishing Bowser's Inside Story.
mind over mana
Mhm, Halo 3, Halo 3:ODST, COD4, and Uno.
Finally playing Batman Arkham Asylum. So far it's been a blast!
Twitter / Newcomer Cheat Sheet / Usage Guidelines
Gears, gears, and more gears. Im gonna start arkham asylum this weekend too.
Hard Work Beats Talent When Talent Fails To Work Hard
beat arkham asylum and i loved the whole stealth thing deffinetly play it on the hardest difficulty
PSN ID = mattador4828
i beat fc2 good game pretty chalenging too
Currently revisiting Pokemon Fire Red and Pearl to hype myself up for the release of Heart Gold and Soul Silver, as well as my regular dosage of The Beatle: Rock Band and Rock Band 2. Finished Braid earlier this week as well, which was a brilliant experience.
Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days (Pretty awesome)
Super Smash Bros. Brawl (A bit here and there)
Okami (Need to get deep into it again)
Tap Tap Revenge 2 (>_>)
Playing inFAMOUS which is pretty good! I think I may even play it twice since the story line is suppose to be different for good and evil. I recommend it.
Uncharted: Drakes Fortune- Resistence: Fall of Man- Far Cry 2- and GTAIV online.
At the moment, I still can't get enough of Rock Band 2. It's been almost a year and a half since I've gotten it, yet I still can't get enough of it :-D
However, I've also been playing a bit of ODST and Beatles here and there, and once I turn in Guitar Hero World Tour to Gamefly, I'll be getting either the Orange Box or Arkham Asylum next.
Of course, that's what I said last time, isn't it?
ODST and L4D
Right now I'm playing a lot of Mass Effect. I just got it and I love it.
Finishing ODST on Legendary, while playing F.E.A.R. 2 on hard, then time to beat Mass Effect and Fallout 3.
Looking for some awesome music? Check out my blog.
"Ideas are bulletproof."

domain: hobby


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Matthew Mcconaughey and wife Camila Alves, supermodel Karolina Kurkova, and the renowned contemporary artist RETNA were among the many influencers who recently descended on Palm Beach to attend the unveiling of Restoration Hardware’s latest retail experience, RH West Palm, The Gallery at CityPlace.
Guests at the private opening celebration, which benefitted The Norton Museum of Art, enjoyed a DJ performance by Chris Malinchak of New York, gourmet bites by RH Café, fresh bellinis by Cipriani NYC, a frosé garden, curated wines by Ma(i)sonry Napa Valley and Blackbird Vineyards, and an ice bar that paired caviar with vodka martinis.
Spanning four levels and nearly 80,000 square feet, the compound showcases all of RH’s businesses—RH Interiors, Modern, Outdoor, Baby & Child, TEEN, Interior Design and Hospitality—and includes a Rooftop Restaurant, Wine Vault, and Barista Bar by celebrated restaurateur Brendan Sodikoff, who is also founding president of RH Hospitality.
“RH West Palm reflects our quest to revolutionize physical retailing, blurring the lines between residential and retail, indoors and outdoors, home and hospitality,” says Chairman & CEO Gary Friedman. “It’s a seamless integration of food, wine, art, and design.”
Prominently situated in the center of Okeechobee Boulevard, this first-of-its-kind retail concept marks Friedman’s ongoing collaboration with design architect James Gillam of Backen, Gillam & Kroeger, a firm recognized as one of Architectural Digest’s Top 100 architect and design firms in the world.
At valet, visitors discover a 14-foot wall of cascading water inspired by the famed fountain in New York’s Paley Park and a monumental, ancient text-based mural installation by RETNA, which commands the entire eastern façade of the building. “Everybody talks about how brick and mortar is dead, but we believe imagination is dead and we want to bring back the magic,” Friedman says.
Arriving to the gallery’s western entrance, visitors first encounter an elliptical fountain inspired by those at Villa d’Este in Tivoli and pass through 20-foot steel gates inspired by the work of late 20th-century Venetian architect Carlo Scarpa. The estate gardens that follow feature open-air pavilions, glimmering chandeliers, and exotic tropicals, all of which enhance an artistic display of the brand’s expansive outdoor collections.
A 25-foot threshold of retractable glass and steel doors leads to the gallery’s central hall, which is flanked by a classical arrangement of rooms featuring RH Interiors collections from internationally renowned designers. Here, visitors enjoy unobstructed views through the entire main level to the water wall beyond.
Continuing their journey to the upper floors, guests ascend a grand double floating staircase spanning nearly 40 feet. An enormous skylight four floors above washes the space with natural light, while a spectacular installation of 23 crystal Helix chandeliers hanging 75 feet overhead highlights a striking composition of gilded antique mirrors.
Level two features RH Design Atelier, a fully integrated workspace inspired by the world’s best architecture and design studios, where the brand’s interior design professionals help clients to envision the home of their dreams. This space also provides access to RH’s vast library of fabrics, leathers, and finishes, and includes a Ben Soleimani rug showroom displaying the fourth-generation designer’s hand-knotted and hand-woven rugs.
On the third level, visitors discover an 8,000-square-foot exhibition space presenting RH Modern, one of the largest curated assortments of modern furnishings, lighting, and décor under one brand in the world, which is developed in collaboration with a select group of acclaimed global designers. Offering tasteful, high-quality furnishings for children and young adults, Baby & Child and TEEN can also be found on this floor.
At the top of the grand stair, a dramatic 10,000-square-foot rooftop space serves as the primary location for the gallery’s hospitality experience. Here, guests enjoy Sodikoff’s seasonal, ingredient-driven menu in the RH Rooftop Restaurant sitting beneath a pyramidal glass and steel atrium punctuated by heritage olive trees and a massive rococo crystal-and-iron chandelier hovering over a 12-foot circular fountain.
Adjoining the restaurant are intimate loggias with iridescent gold groin-vaulted ceilings and floors of checkered French antique black and white marble that play host to the Wine Vaults, where guests can savor a glass of rosé or Cabernet. Espresso and house-made pastries can be found in the nearby Barista Bar, which is flanked by 12-foot Moroccan tile fountains.
But the excitement extends beyond Palm Beach, as Friedman will soon unveil the brand’s largest gallery to date: RH New York, The Gallery in the Historic Meatpacking District. He describes this project as “a one-of-a-kind experience situated on what is quickly becoming one of Manhattan’s most iconic corners” due to its location across from the new Whitney Museum and entrance to the High Line. “We’re trying to create environments that activate all of the senses and cannot be replicated online,” Friedman says.
RH West Palm, The Gallery at CityPlace: 560 Okeechobee Boulevard, West Palm Beach; 561.804.6826. Open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m., and Sunday, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.


Officials investigating after Licking County tornado sirens activate early Tuesday
NEWARK - Officials are investigating after portions of Licking County tornado sirens went off Tuesday morning.
According to Sean Grady, Licking County Emergency Management Agency director, the agency began receiving reports of activated tornado sirens about 5:58 a.m. They are still working to determine what caused the activation.
Grady explained the issue seems to have affected three to four sirens just east and west of downtown Newark. He said they're determining which are affected by inbound 911 calls.
The agency is still investigating the cause, but Grady said they've been able to weed out some potential causes. He said neither the National Weather Service or Licking County's new 911 center initiated the sirens.
Grady said the agency notified Newark officials about the issue, adding they'll likely have to request tornado siren vendors to take a look at them.
In the meantime, Grady said they've disabled the affected sirens' ability to go off automatically, but said they can still be set off manually if needed.
Grady said the public still needs to pay attention to tornado sirens, but luckily we're not currently in tornado season.
Grady couldn't provide any estimate as to when officials could find a solution or cause. The incident remains under investigation.


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Global Rainwater Harvesting Market: Snapshot
The continuous increase in the global population is leading to a rising demand for clean, usable water, which is intensifying the pressure on water resources. This, as a result, is propelling the growth of the global market for rainwater harvesting substantially. The market offered an opportunity worth US$0.70 bn in 2016. Researchers expect it to rise at a CAGR of 5.70% over the period from 2017 to 2025 and reach a value of US$1.14 bn by the end of 2025.
Request Sample Report @
Above Ground Method More Popular
Predominantly, the worldwide rainwater harvesting market is studied on two fronts: the harvesting methods and the end user. Based on the harvesting method, the rainwater harvesting market is categorized into above ground method and below ground method. Among the two, the above ground harvesting method segment led the global market in 2016. Researchers expect the scenario to remain so in the near future. Storage tanks, a sub-segment of the above ground harvesting method, is projected to emerge highly lucrative over the next few years.
Based on the end user, the market is bifurcated into the residential, commercial, industrial, and the agricultural sectors. The demand for rainwater harvesting has been relatively higher in the commercial sector and the trend is expected to remain so in the years to come.
For More Industrial Insights Get PDF Brochure:
The global market for rainwater harvesting is highly competitive and fragmented with the presence of a large pool of small and medium-scale players. Some of the players operating in this market are Kinspan Group, Watts Water Technologies, Inc., Graf Group, WISY AG, Innovative Water Solutions LLC, D&D Ecotech Services, Rain Harvesting Supplies, Inc., Water Field Technologies Pvt. Ltd., Stormsaver, Climate Inc., Water Harvesters, Heritage Tanks, HarvestRain, and The Gulf Islands Rainwater Connection Ltd.

domain: agronomy


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The gospel echoes in all kinds of stories. It shows up in adventure stories when people are oppressed and a hero rises up to rescue them. We see it in romance stories where true love is put to the test. Fairy tales tell us that good prevails against evil. The echoes ripple out and into our hearts, developing and confirming what we know to be true: that we are created by someone and for something.
The stories in the Bible do not simply echo, or as John Eldredge puts it in his book, Epic , “borrow their power” from the Gospel story. They are the Gospel Story. The Old Testament points to it. The New Testament springs from it. The promised Messiah came in the person of Jesus of Nazareth who died in our place and rose from the dead so we can live as children of God again. That is the Good News all of humanity looks for in all our stories.
Because this story is so important, I feel a great responsibility to tell these stories well. To be historically accurate wherever possible. To make artistic choices that fit that culture and time frame. To show the characters as real people living through real circumstances, behaving and reacting as people who don’t already know the ending of their own story.
I admit, I approached The Chosen reluctantly. I watched the first episode skeptically, and my first impression wasn’t great. I thought the story moved slowly, though to be fair, most pilots do walk a fine line of setting up the world of the story while also moving the story along. I was waiting expectantly for the big reveal: the moment Jesus would enter. He finally did come and from that point on, I was hooked. I wonder if that’s what it was like in first century Israel; if people encountered Jesus and were inexplicably drawn to his simple authenticity while at the same time realizing all of their expectations were now upside down.
My hesitation stems from a history of poorly portrayed Bible stories. It seems to be a problem for the church. We miss the mark, confusing meekness for weakness and holiness for some unrelatable aloofness. We have enough trouble wrapping our brain around the idea that Jesus was fully God and fully man, let alone expressing that on the stage or screen.
But The Chosen (much like Sight & Sound’s Jesus) manages to strike that balance by focusing on the humans God chose to work with and through, in all their multi-dimensional glory. They paint a picture of people who are complex, who experience a range of emotions, and make the best choices they can within their framework of understanding. A framework that is not like ours.
There are so many ways to tell these wonderful, compelling stories. Experiencing them through different mediums, stage, screen, book, and so on, when they are told well, inspires me to dig deeper into my Bible and to see if I can find what the artists portray in the text.
The Chosen is well-crafted art. It allows us, the viewers, to discover the world as Jesus and his disciples did, giving us a better picture of the times they lived in which we can draw on when we read the stories for ourselves. I hope we will not ever think of one portrayal as the definitive picture of the gospel, but will continue to be inspired and to seek out the story for ourselves.
P.S. If you’re interested in looking at the Scriptures artistically, check out the Script Study to do just that!


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STAGE LEFT PRODUCTIONS
2023 Season Tickets
Synopsis An incessantly ringing cell phone in a quiet café. A stranger at the next table who has had enough. And a dead man – with a lot of loose ends. So begins Dead Man’s Cell Phone, a wildly imaginative comedy. A work about how we memorialize the dead – and how that remembering changes us – it is the odyssey of a woman forced to confront her own assumptions about morality, redemption, and the need to connect in a technologically obsessed world.
Synopsis Collected Stories confronts the prominent short-story writer Ruth Steiner with her student turned confidante turned competitor Lisa Morrison. The women are teacher and student both in academia and in life, that they come from different social milieus, and that for her first novel, Lisa has also cannibalized Ruth’s experiences, to wit her youthful, shattering affair with the poet Delmore Schwartz.
Synopsis Five people are invited to dine at a first-rate restaurant in Paris. They do not know who the other guests will be or why they have been invited. Tossed together in a private dining room, they have a sneaking suspicion that this unorthodox dinner party will forever change their lives.
Synopsis Inspired by true events, Monique takes you on a humorous journey through her life that is personal and powerful. From innocently finding out about a family secret, misguided relationships with men, to a life-changing event that turns her world upside down. "Sugar" takes you from the life you thought you were going to have, to the life you're actually living.
Synopsis This extraordinary play is the story of five unmarried sisters eking out their lives in a small village in Ireland in 1936. We meet them at the time of the festival of Lughnasa, which celebrates the pagan god of the harvest with drunken revelry and dancing. Their spare existence is interrupted by brief, colorful bursts of music from the radio, their only link to the romance and hope of the world at large.
Synopsis It's four days before Christmas in the tiny town of Tinsel, Texas, and a colorful parade of eccentric guests arrive at the Snowflake Inn and deck the halls with holiday hilarity.
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On The Air
by Laura Nachman
Bucks County Courier Times
April 20, 2007
Phillies Make Double-Switch in the Booth
Rob Brooks, manager of broadcasting for the Phillies, explained the strategy for the broadcast team's new pairings this season (a double-switch of sorts for those Charlie Manuel fans).
The first major change was creating separate television and radio teams.
“It's more for continuity sake,” he said. “When a guy tells a story on radio then goes to TV and tells the same story not realizing that the other guy told that story already, that creates unnecessary repetition.”
On television, Harry Kalas, Gary Matthews and Chris Wheeler work innings 1-3 and 7-9. Matthews and Wheeler announce 4-6 alone.
Brooks explained his decision to put Matthews on the TV team.
“Three in the booth makes it easier for him to ease into the role,” he said. “With Gary's skill set [a former batting coach], he can use replays and the pictures to bring things to life better.”
As for the criticism of Matthews, Brooks said: “People don't like change. If the Phillies listened to the first impressions of the fans, Harry Kalas wouldn't have lasted a year. Nobody would.”
Brooks denied that Matthews was put in the booth to break up tension between Kalas and Wheeler, who have had personal issues in the past.
“Sarge is a great guy,” Brooks said. “He makes any room a more pleasant place to be.”
This year's radio team of Larry Andersen and Scott Franzke works together for eight innings. Kalas does play-by-play in the fourth, and for the first time Andersen is doing play-by-play in the fifth and sixth.
Brooks said Andersen's move to play by play was a mutual decision between him and Andersen.
“During the off-season, Larry said he wanted to become more of a complete announcer,” Brooks said. “Richie Ashburn did play by play, too.”
Brooks explained the decision to pair Kalas and Wheeler on television and Franzke and Andersen on radio.
“Larry is a good fit on radio,” he said. “He likes it better because there is more freedom to ramble.”
WIP 610-AM host Big Daddy Graham has a personal connection to one of the victims of the Virginia Tech massacre.
Both of his daughters are friends with Sean McQuade, who is from Mullica Hill, N.J., where Graham's family lives. McQuade, a graduate of Clearview Regional High School in Mullica Hill, was shot in the face and is in serious condition in a Virginia hospital.
One down, one to go
Michael Bradley is a huge improvement over Gregg Henson in the morning on Sports Radio 950-AM. However, weak link Glenn Foley needs to go. He was awful when he began in August 2006, and he's awful now.


Why do we leave the house? Between digital streaming and the sharing economy everything you could ever want is right there or can be delivered at the push of a button. Human socializing has been digitized and depersonalized. Entertainment can, and will, cater specifically to you, and the Internet will connect you to anyone in the world. So, why go out?
I personally like to believe it has to do with experiencing the world. That to bring back a true story to the digital marketplace enriches yourself and the people you’re sharing with. It still doesn’t explain why we gather to drink fermented beverages, laugh, talk, and be merry. Some things are just for fun. But they should still be an experience.
I like to call it the, “You Put On Pants” Philosophy. For whatever reason you decided to get up of the couch, put on pants, and come to the bar instead of watching Game of Thrones reruns. Let’s make it worth your while. Let’s get you something that can’t be delivered straight to your doorstep. In this case with a whiskey you can’t get anywhere else.
“You Put On Pants Damn It”
Buffalo Trace isn’t hard to come by. Even though the brand was only created in 1999 the Bourbon Boom and the fact that it is a quality whiskey has made it a nearly ubiquitous bottle. What makes this ‘pants worthy’ is its single barrel nature. After tasting through several samples we bought all of the whiskey inside of the barrel. The only way to taste this version of Buffalo Trace is right here with us. It has the familiar backbone but with a massive dollop of orange marmalade, a spicier pop and super rich vanilla.
It’s not an earth shattering difference but it’s enough to stay interesting. Both for you leaving the house and us coming into work. This isn’t our first barrel and it’s by no means our last. So, we’ll hopefully being seeing you through several pairs of pants.


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The efficiency football is going to be kicked around the Health Service, seemingly interminably.
On one team are the government, the policy wonks and beancounters, who now have an outright majority in parliament to execute their plan and some new moral ooomph thanks to the promise of an £8bn budgetary injection.
On the other side of the pitch are the many stressed doctors and nurses, the creaking facilities (or new ones burdened by crippling PFI or PFI2 repayments) and the looming burden of an ageing population with inexorably growing healthcare needs.
This match is why there is a steady trickle of stories in the press. Recently, for example, the “£3200 doctor’s shift” made headlines, with both sides claiming it to be a ludicrous situation (Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt says agencies are “taking the NHS for a ride”).
The latest salvo – carefully timed – is the release of a report from Lord Carter, who says that the NHS could save £5bn, a big chunk of its £20bn efficiencies target, through better purchasing and better organisational strategy.
This is gold dust for the government, because:
- Carter has spent the best part of a year working in hospitals, rather than making pronouncements from the sidelines
- And, most importantly, his interest is in structural change rather than attempting to extract ever more value from employees who are already run ragged
We like Carter’s approach, because it suggests some basic truths. For example, variance is a good indicator of opportunities for efficiency. Not always – sometimes you need to buy a truck because a car just won’t do; but if the cost of similar things is widely variant, that suggests room for improvement. Prices on basics like syringes, he found, varied by up to a third. Changing the form of medication could in some cases save 98% of the cost.
Carter’s report will be released in full in the coming weeks, and there are ominous sounds that it will also recommend upheaval to working patterns (in some quarters this will be welcomed, but in plenty, it won’t). That may well damage some of the good messages here today. But the fact remains, the value of an outside observer is clear: the ability to question established practice and ask, “why exactly do we do this?” invariably yields unexpectedly good results.


Upright microscopeThe Axioskop 2 MAT microscope meets special demands made on materials microscopy research, quality assurance and failure analysis. It provides reproducible results time after time. The unit has an improved reflected-light beam path. High-performance optics ensure ideal micrographs. In the motor-ized version, the reflector turret, z-drive, brightness control and switching mirror are automated, and the nosepiece is coded. The trinocular Ergo TV-Tube with a viewing angle of 20 degrees permits the view-ing height to be varied by 50 millimeters. EC-Epiplan-Neofluar materials objectives give the user an unrestricted ability to fully use Zeiss' exclusive new microscope techniques such as C-DIC and TIC.
The Axioskop 2 MAT is available in manual or motorized versions for reflected and transmitted light.
The motorized microscope models permit automated processes such as digital image acquisition and analysis using AxioVision software, increasing the effectiveness of quality examinations and through-put.
Carl Zeiss MicroImaging Inc.
Measuring projectorThe HE4000 MkIII, a large-screen benchtop projector, has a 16-inch screen with an integral hood, precision crosslines and calibration markings. Fan-cooled halogen profile illumination with high and low intensity allows the user to adjust the screen lighting. Magnifications of 10X, 20X, 25X, 31.25X, 50X to 100X are available. The unit also is fitted with a choice of Quadra-Chek digital readout systems. The projector has a 10-inch by 4-inch measuring travel, a high-precision workstage with an 18.9-inch by 4.7-inch top plate and accommodates up to 55 pounds.
The L.S. Starrett Co.
CMMThe DEA PRIMA direct computer-control coordinate measuring machine (CMM) provides flexible gaging for large workpieces. The unit is available in five models ranging in size from 2,000 millimeters by 1,200 millimeters by 1,600 millimeters to 4,000 millimeters by 1,600 millimeters by 2,100 millimeters. The open-sided design and large work area facilitate automatic loading and the use of fixturing systems. The CMM can use touch-trigger probes, analog, scanning probes or noncontact laser sensors for full flexibility in meeting any data gathering and throughput requirement. The unit is built to operate on the shop floor.
Brown & Sharpe Inc.
CMM fixturingXTensions are lightweight aluminum extrusions used along with standard Rayco components for building a setup vertically or creating a support structure to fixture a part. The components are available in standard lengths from 6 inches to 60 inches to accommodate parts vertically. Custom lengths are available. Set up is simple with minimal tools needed to produce a rigid fixture with unrestricted probe paths.
R&R Sales and Engineering
Data exportThe ESZ 800 is designed for readings, treatment and for signal visualization. It can also be con-nected to different types of probes. The unit allows data export via RS232 serial connection for a cen-tralized surveillance of the production. It is programmable up to 32 probe channels, up to 48 I/O and up to 10 interface modules. The interface and supply modules can be drifted, making it easier to integrate closer to the measuring assembly.
Telecentric lensIdeal for metrology and machine vision applications, the 0.08X MVO Telecentric Lens is free of perspective error and magnification changes within a defined depth of field. The maximum field of view is directly related to the front aperture of the telecentric lens. When coupled to a 2/3-inch format CCD, the unit offers a 4-inch horizontal field of view. Working distance ranges from 170 to 220 milli-meters and resolution is more than 45% at 40 line pairs/millimeter. The lens' telecentricity is less than 0.2 degrees over the entire working distance range and maximum distortion is less than 0.35%. The depth of field is ±105mm at F12. The f/# ranges from F6 to closed for maximum light collection. Both the aperture and focusing adjustment positions can be fixed by set screws to remain secure in high-vibration environments.
Edmund Industrial Optics Inc.
Vision systemThe ZFL Scope, a macro/micro fluorescent vision system, uses interchangeable professional fluores-cent cubes and internal focus to create an image compatible with most existing camera systems. Field of view is up to 9.2 millimeters with a 2/3-inch CCD in macro mode. The remote UV light source includes a long-life metal halide bulb. Zoom and fixed systems are available.
Materials testing systemThe MTESTWindows materials testing system for tension and compression testing is a 32-bit Win-dows application program that controls electrohydraulic and electromechanical test frames and records test results. It includes an external interface box that controls the movement of the load frame and ac-quires load, strain and deflection data. measurement accuracy exceeds ASTM standards for accuracy and repeatability. It has one encoder input channel that measures crosshead position and uses up to three analog input channels that measure load, axial and transverse strain.
X-ray inspectionThe Direct Digital Detector (DDD) series of nanofocus X-ray inspection systems features an X-ray detector with three image acquisition modes, automatic noise level reduction and a high-resolution flat panel monitor on which users can choose image sizes up to 1,888 by 1,408 pixels. The fully program-mable system is integrated into the company's graphical user interface version 2.2 that now features AVI recording and playback features and additional image processing.
ScannerThe JF-15 High Speed Scanner is designed for NDT inspections of boltholes. When coupled with the company's US-454 EddyView instrument, cable and highly sensitive rotating probes, the unit scan-ner finds indications of defect amplitude and circumferential location. The scanner has a scan rate of 1500 RPM, which assures full surface coverage at normal insertion rates.
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The Significance of Continuous Improvement in Manufacturing Processes
In today’s fast-paced and highly competitive business environment, manufacturing processes play a crucial role in the success of any company. Manufacturers continuously strive for greater efficiency, decreased costs, and improved quality to stay ahead in the market. To achieve these objectives, the concept of continuous improvement has become a cornerstone in the manufacturing industry. It refers to the ongoing efforts to refine and enhance production methods, products, and systems over time. This blog post explores the significance of continuous improvement in manufacturing processes and highlights its many benefits.
Continuous improvement ensures that manufacturing processes are always evolving, adapting, and becoming more efficient. This constant pursuit of improvement leads to reduced production times, increased productivity, and ultimately, cost savings. By identifying bottlenecks and inefficiencies in the manufacturing process, companies can make modifications and optimize workflows. This not only reduces waste but also improves the overall quality of the products being manufactured. Through continuous improvement, manufacturers can eliminate defects, increase product consistency, and minimize the need for rework or scrap, thus enhancing customer satisfaction.
One key aspect of continuous improvement is the adoption of new technologies and methodologies. As technology advances, manufacturers need to constantly reassess their processes and invest in new tools, software, and equipment to stay competitive. For example, the implementation of automation and robotics in manufacturing has revolutionized production lines. These technologies can perform tasks with greater precision, speed, and consistency than humans. By embracing innovation, companies can improve productivity, reduce errors, and streamline their manufacturing processes.
Moreover, continuous improvement fosters a culture of learning and employee involvement within the organization. It encourages employees to identify areas for improvement and provides them with training and resources to develop new skills. When employees actively participate in the improvement process, they feel a sense of ownership and pride in their work. This leads to increased motivation, engagement, and job satisfaction. By harnessing their knowledge and expertise, companies can tap into a valuable resource that can drive innovation and process optimization.
The concept of continuous improvement is closely aligned with the principles of Lean and Six Sigma. Lean manufacturing focuses on the elimination of waste, while Six Sigma aims to reduce defects and variations in the manufacturing process. By integrating these methodologies, manufacturers can achieve significant improvements in efficiency, quality, and costs. Continuous improvement facilitates the implementation of Lean and Six Sigma by providing a framework for analyzing and improving processes. By consistently monitoring key performance indicators (KPIs) and using statistical tools, companies can identify areas of improvement and take corrective actions, leading to better outcomes.
Furthermore, continuous improvement is essential for businesses to adapt to changing market demands and customer needs. In today’s dynamic market, customers expect products that are not only high quality but also customizable and delivered quickly. Manufacturers must be agile and responsive to these demands. Continuous improvement allows companies to identify gaps in their offerings and make the necessary adjustments. It enables them to introduce new products or modify existing ones to meet customer expectations. By staying ahead of the competition, companies can maintain a strong market position and secure long-term success.
In conclusion, continuous improvement is of great significance in manufacturing processes. It drives innovation, enhances efficiency, reduces costs, improves product quality, and increases customer satisfaction. By fostering a culture of learning and embracing new technologies, manufacturers can adapt to changing market demands and remain competitive. Continuous improvement, when integrated with Lean and Six Sigma principles, becomes a powerful tool that enables organizations to optimize processes and achieve continuous growth. Embracing the concept of continuous improvement is crucial for manufacturers to thrive in today’s challenging business landscape.


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Depression is affecting the lives and health of millions of people across the globe. It is brought by different factors like relationships failure, unemployment, health deterioration, and many other life frustrations.
Victims of depression have experienced some difficult times, and are now trying to overcome. Many of them don’t dare to express what they are going through while others want to avoid the stigma associated with having to seek help.
Thanks to technology, by the use of video games, you can now fight depression and change the way you train emotional resilience in the next generation.
Below are five major reasons for the use of video games as intervention tools for mental health.
The majority of adolescents rarely seek professional help on their own. Instead, they feel coerced by external pressures curtailing efficacy. They need motivation for change. Video games are conversely motivating since they offer a strong sense of opportunities for co-creation with like-minded peers, and besides all these, they are fun. They motivate you to develop a ‘gameful’ mindset.
2. Breaks cost and access barrier
Cost is a significant barrier since many people are unable to receive mental health care services. The cost of video games is invariably less compared to a series of therapy sessions in a mental health facility. Again, most of the people in need of care have a difficult time accessing programs due to life-style or geographical factors. On the other hand, video games are easily accessible, through stores or online, and they can be used at one’s convenient time in homes or through mobile phones.
Video games can be played for extensive periods without losing the players’ interest. These long periods can trigger a range of negative emotions, which in turn, motivates players to learn emotion regulation strategies that help them dampen the negative ones. For instance, in the “Minecraft download” game, you will be required to build with a variety of different blocks in a 3D procedurally generated world. According to research, this game has been described as one of the most influential video games to aid in reducing the levels of depression in people. This calls for creativity and consistency, thus engaging players for a longer time.
Again, video games have increasingly become social, preparing, and simulating users for non-digital social challenges that they will inevitably face.
Engaging people, mostly youths in therapy, is one of the most challenging tasks that clinicians face. The majority often find didactic lessons annoying. On the contrary, they play video games regularly; thus, these games can be used to hijack the enthusiasm for a purpose beyond entertainment. This trains them on emotional resilience skills that will prevent and minimize the lonely times that result in depression and anxiety.
Stigma is another significant barrier to the prevention and treatment of depression. The majority are reluctant to ask for help for fear of being termed as crazy. The good news is that this has been put to an end. Video games have no stigma attached and can be delivered through stealth approaches that avoid mental health messaging.
Games are useful in managing depression for different people in different demographics. More people need to be educated on the importance of video games to the mental health of depression victims. The “Minecraft download” game can be a start to playing depression away.

domain: sociology


Secret Weapons of the Luftwaffe, Pt. 4
By Jim "Twitch" Tittle
Article Type: Military History
Article Date: November 20, 2001
The TheoriesOtto Hahn and Friedrich Strassman demonstrated the fission of uranium U-235 in December 1938. The nuclear puzzle in all countries was to stimulate normally slow emanation of radioactive elements to release their energy all at once. If that could be accomplished considerable destructive power could be wielded. U-238 is a normal, non-volatile isotopic metal found in nature. U-235, on the other hand, is highly radioactive. Neither is capable of nuclear fission to produce an explosion without intense transmutation by an outside process.
The goal was to find a way to refine U-235 from its normal one percent composition in conjunction with the ninety-nine percent composition of U-238. If a refining process attains a three percent figure for U-235, then a reactor is made. Non-volatile U-238, if barraged by radiation, can be transmuted into plutonium and a new element, U-239, is born. This element is weapons grade material.
Nuclear reaction requires that neutrons discharged by decaying atoms need to collide with other atoms nearby causing them to decay as well, hence chain reaction. Since the neutrons exited at high velocity from U-235 atoms passing through adjacent uranium atoms without effect, a means to slow them down was needed.
Early on Germans scientists had used graphite as an agent to slow down the neutrons and cause fission in the atoms. Much later it was concluded that impurities in the graphite absorbed the neutrons instead of simply slowing them down. They had the perfect catalyst and didn’t know it. Since there were so few men working on things experiments couldn’t be conducted again. They had to move on. Their loss—our gain!
Enter Heavy WaterThe next conceivable substance was “heavy water.” It is an unusual form or normal H2O water in which a form of the hydrogen atom is heavier atomic weight than, and replaces, the regular hydrogen atom. Heavy water (deuterium oxide) is found in nature and can be separated from normal water in hydro-electric facilities using diverters to isolate it. Such a plant was in operation in Vemork, Norway and was the basis of the cinema film The Heroes Of Telemark that depicted the underground’s destruction of the hydro-electric facilities and dam. It was the Norsk Hydro Hydrogen Electrolysis plant.
In fact the plant was never fully destroyed but the repeated attacks by bombers and saboteurs did accomplish the same thing when production ceased in 1943. By then several tons of deuterium oxide had been gleaned from the dam and were to be shipped to Kaiser Wilhelm Institute in Göttingen, Germany. The transport ship carrying it was sunk but that didn’t mean German scientists were without heavy water completely, of course.
Before the facility was taken by the Germans in 1940, French physicists under the direction of Frederic Joliot-Curie had conducted experiments using the heavy water from the plant. 1,000 tons of uranium was captured in Belgium in 1940 as well. The cat was out of the bag. The Germans had the materials.
All evidence discovered as the Allies swept into Germany in the late days of the war pointed to the fact that no suitable nuclear reactor was in operation and that the Germans were years away from a bomb. A large vessel of heavy water with hundreds of uranium cubes suspended in it was depicted as the only thing in existence and that was unworkable.
No, the reactor didn’t become critical. Post war calculations showed that a functioning nuclear reactor would have had to be about 1.5 times the size of this reactor. Expanding the reactor, however, was no longer possible in April 1945 due to the lack of more heavy water and uranium blocks. Again, a slight miscalculation made them elude success.
A Success?But in Leipzig in 1942 Werner Heisenberg (1932 Nobel Prize winner “for the creation of quantum mechanics, the application of which has, inter alia, led to the discovery of the allotropic forms of hydrogen”) was head of atomic research—code named Virus House. His team built a different device. They had two aluminum hemispheres bolted around a central sphere containing heavy water and uranium powder. The whole affair was submerged in ordinary water for twenty days, cooking. Bubbles were seen to be escaping from the device. When the thing was raised and the access hatch opened a hissing sound was produced followed by a jet of fire.
Alarmed scientists thought somehow the uranium had ignited and promptly drained the heavy water to stop contamination after extinguishing the fire. They resealed the unit and lowered it into the water once more with a sigh of relief.
In a few hours the sphere was discharging bubbles again. This time the tank of coolant water was beginning to boil, so great was the heat generated. Astoundingly the thing commenced to vibrate and physically swell in size! Everyone evacuated the room and the device exploded spewing burning uranium. Fire crews called in poured water on it but it did not douse the ensuing fire. It took two days for the fire to burn itself out.
What was the purpose of this outlandish device? Certainly the scientists were attempting to slow down the neutrons in order to make them interact with the atoms. Remember, if U-238 uranium is radiated with U-235 plutonium is created. Beryllium in aluminum has the capability of emitting neutrons when under bombardment of radiation during a process that takes several weeks to accomplish.
This same experiment was undertaken by an American teenager in 1994. The results had to be taken to a nuclear disposal site. Since Heisenberg’s team was a little smarter than this kid, it is pretty likely that they too produced fissionable material in 1942 since the unquenchable fire was completely Chernobyl-like in its demeanor.
As we return to "Secret Weapons of the Luftwaffe, Part III" and note the Amerika Bombers, like the Me 264 and Ju 390 that were never pursued, we must remember that late 1944 saw intense interest in the concept again. Why? The jet power possible to propel bombers high and fast was at hand and not just to deliver conventional bombs. No one was dumb enough to believe that a few tons of explosives would halt the American war effort.
USA Nuked!Let’s run a “what if” scenario. The Horten XVIII Amerika Bomber is above 40,000 feet closing on New York City or Washington D.C. No one has detected it because it is made from layers of wood and carbon glued together. Yes, it is constructed of composites. With its all wing shape it is the first stealth bomber. The four Heinkel-Hirth HeS 011s with 10,600 lbs. of combined thrust are buried in the 130-foot wing. The plane weighed 35 tons on takeoff.
The ample 6,835 mile range has brought its three-man crew to the American shores with ease. Two unnecessary 30 mm Mk 108 cannon are there for the slight possibility of defense though its ceiling is a lofty 52,492 feet. The bombardier lines up on the Empire State Building or Washington Monument and a twelve-foot long, 1,000 kilogram bomb with an armored nose begins its dive. The bomber exits the area at 550 MPH heading home to complete its 27-hour mission.
At supersonic speed the projectile pierces a building. The impact force shears the pins holding uranium plates. The sphere shatters under the pressure of its compressed kerosene load, which then ignites and spews in all directions. The detonator cap in the nose unleashes a spray of neutrons into the uranium. If the thing does not detonate in chain reaction fashion the uranium commences meltdown similar to the 1942 lab incident but not with just uranium powder. Once the material bores through to the water table a mass of superheated water will arise in a colossal cloud of radioactive steam that will poison the area for decades hence.
Ho 18 A & B
By the way, Göring ordered immediate construction of the Horten Ho XVIIIB in February 1945. The Ho XVIII was simply a larger version of the Ho 9 or Ho 229, which had already flown. We will discuss more of the Horten brothers’ aircraft in later installments.
But it is easy to see in the graphic illustration of the 9/11/01 terrorist attack on New York and Washington how much damage and chaos could have been caused by a wing of Amerika Bombers with standard bombs. The surreal vision was like a backward look into an alternate, possible time line.
Yes, the real German atomic weapon was a feasible reality. Its construction was quite similar to the experimental sphere. Ten uranium layers were to be spaced within the 2.5-foot diameter sphere so that kerosene could flow between them. Why? Kerosene absorbs neutrons very well to prevent contact and reaction. Then once the small golf-ball-sized sphere of beryllium is fractured neutrons commence the fission process.
The meltdown scenario is a possibility since the American A-bomb functioned with a 1,000 FPS shot of collision to smash its uranium plates together and produce the chain reaction. A free falling bomb might not travel so fast.
Gray- U-235, Orange- Kerosene, Blue-Ballast, Yellow-Shearpins, Green- Plutomium
Other DeliveriesThe A-4 or V-2, as it was known, impacted at 3,000 FPS. Quite fast enough, but it hadn’t the range to attack the U.S. This is why the A-9/A-10 project was accelerated near the war’s end. It was envisioned as early as 1940 as a multi-stage winged rocket. In 1941 Dr. Walter Thiel calculated one engine with 400,000 lbs. thrust could be developed in three years if given priority. By January 1945 a winged V-2 was successful in trials.
A booster with six 56,000 lb. thrust A-4 motors was to be the A-10 that would launch with the A-9 atop it with its 2,200 lb. payload, in this case a nuclear bomb. After boost phase to extraordinary altitude the A-9 would separate and head toward the U.S. gliding on its 29.5-foot wings. Its impact would certainly cause chain reaction and detonation of atomic proportions. The rocket would have a range of 3,105 miles with a 6,500 MPH peak speed.
This Winged A-4b Was Same As A-9
Paul Harteckk’s and Dr. Wilhelm Ohnesorge’s research theorized that low temperature for the reactor would work as a dirty bomb. Mixed with sand and dust it would leave behind plutonium and radioactive isotopes after detonation in a V-1 or V-2 warhead. Dissention of ideas and the small number of scientists involved fortunately hindered developments. The fundamental theories varied widely and many believed a whole nuclear reactor had to be dropped for the bomb to work.
The submarine-towed pods with V-2s was pursued to the point that a Type XXI submarine pod was finished by the war’s conclusion with eventual deployment off the eastern U.S. coast. This was certainly more plausible than the A-9/A-10 in the given time.
The German Nuclear Device
At the end of hostilities the French may have found two prototype bomb spheres near Stuttgart submerged in water in a lab. Since they were immersed it meant they were probably ready for testing. The supposedly blew up the complex.
The Germans simply weren’t all on the same page in their efforts and Heisenberg and company didn’t really grasp the integrals to build a good bomb. And seemingly what they did discover they didn’t capitalize on.
Niespulver & SuchWWII had no monopoly on German secret weapons. In 1914 scientists were convened by the high command to produce a chemical irritant in balls placed in fragmentary artillery shells. A Professor Nerst developed the ‘Ni-Shell’, as it became known, containing a nonpoisonous irritant, namely ‘Niespulver’—sneezing powder! It was used in 3,000 shells on the Western Front in October of 1914 against British and Indian troops who suffered no ill effects.
So ineffective was the substance that General von Falkenhayn’s son won himself a crate of champagne in a bet that he could out last it for five minutes unprotected in a cloud of the stuff. Achoo!!
Also in 1914 a chemist named Hans Tappen came up with the T-Shell containing explosive and a chemical irritant called xylyl bromide. In Jaunuary 1915 it was used against Russian troops but the cold probably rendered the liquid inert. It was uncertain at the time whether German industry could even produce enough of the shells for effective bombardment at any given time.
In the winter of 1914-15 it was the chemist, Professor Dr. Fritz Haber, who came up with the idea of generating a cloud of gas so as to engulf an entire enemy line. Liquid chlorine gas released from pressurized cylinders was to engulf an enemy trench line then blow away allowing German soldiers able to quickly follow with an attack on the incapacitated enemy. Seemingly it was never used.
- Bergaust, Erich
Hitler's Secrets Revealed
Bantam Books, NY, 1956
- Myhra, David
Secret Aircraft Designs of the Third Reich
Schiffer Publishing, Atglen, PA 1998
- Pocock, Rowland, F.
German Guided Missiles
Arco Publishing Co., Inc, N.Y. 1967


The head of state said that the devaluation of the local currency will not, but it has advised citizens to be careful with the translation into U.S. ashchazhannyav.
On He said, all these rumors provoked "charlatans who aspire to the presidency, and for them, the worse in the country, the better."
Alexander Lukashenko noted that Belarus accumulated sufficient foreign exchange reserves have increased, among other things, the gold reserves. He also warned of a possible fall of the dollar.
"Be careful with the dollar. I have warned you, "- said the Belarusian leader, reporting policy of the United States on the additional issue of dollars.
According to Lukashenko, Belarus' people rushed to buy dollars and carry them to the banks. "
"Keep in mind, you can lose on this dollar. Everyone folds dollar, and you are buying it "- gives utterance Head of State agency "Interfax".


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Scenes From A Photographer's Notebook: How Bossa Nova Came To Carnegie Hall and Uncle Dave Came To Brasil
Scene 1, Boate Bon Gourmet, Rio de Janeiro, 1962
It was springtime in the sensual city by the sea.
It was the inaugural night of what was to be probably the most famous show of a new musical style called Bossa Nova.
It was a tiny nightclub, the Bon Gourmet, and it was a tiny cast of musicians in the show. In spite of their diminutive number, the cast had musical weight. When you run through their names, you now know why.
First (it was his show), there was a singer from Bahia called Joao Gilberto, a diplomat from Itamarati named Vinicius de Morais, a group of vocally malabaristic singers called Os Cariocas, and a cool, light-handed drummer improbably named Milton Banana.
Finally, there was a slim young piano player who went by the handle of Tom Jobim.
It was a memorable night for Brasil and a photographer named David Zingg. Bossa Nova was on its way to something that neither Adolph Hitler nor Joe Stalin had been capable of -- world conquest.
When I first heard the understated, streamlined version of the classic Carioca samba, I was simply wiped out.
Let me explain what I was doing that night in the Bon Gourmet, a long way by primitive 707 from my home base, New York City.
In 1962, I was a free-lance writer who had turned photographer after working as an editor/writer on the staff of Look magazine, a sort of combined O Cruzeiro/Manchete on better paper.
Look, and its arch-rival, Life, were the eyes of Gringolandia. Until the end of the '60s, they had the mass audience and the power that would later come to television.
Lucky little me, I had fallen into an extremely cushy job as editorial advisor for a rich, influential new magazine called Show.
This is what brought us, that fateful night to the Bon Gourmet.
I came back night after night, drinking in this new music. (I also drank in an inordinate quantity of Scotch whiskey with Tom and Vinicius).
Scene 2, Months Later, Over Dry Martinis, New York City
Uncle Dave and Bob Wool have successfully close their special edition of Show magazine about the state of the arts in South America.
They are celebrating in P.J. Clark's, a hangout for reporters. They are happy, They are on their fourth double Martini and they are completely drunk. Wool, slurring his words: "The only little problem we still have is how the hell do we promote our special issue?'
Zingg is profoundly inspired by the LP "Cancao do Amor Demais" that he brought back from Brasil. He plays it twenty-four hours a day to the alarm of friends who are certain that he left his common sense in a bar in Brasil in the care of a musician named Tom Jobim.
Zingg is also triumphantly drunk, but inspired by Jobim's music and gin, in equal parts. "Simple," he says creatively, "all we have to do is hire Carnegie Hall and a fleet of airplanes and bring the whole fuckin' mob of Bossa Nova musicians to Manhattan do a show!"
Said and done.
Once recovered from their brutal hangover, our courageous young reporters win the support of Dora Vasconcellos (poet and Brasilian consul in New York) and Mario Dias Costa, then chief of cultural affairs at Itamarati in Rio.
Dora sold the idea to a shyster record company which paid for the rental of the concert hall. Mario used some sort of blackmail, and squeezed Varig for an immense number of free airplane tickets for the musicians. Most of the musicians slept on the floor of New York apartments owned by cooperative Brasilian fans.
The concert was a done deal.
Scene 3, Twenty years later, Sao Paulo
Tom Jobim's music was the lever that catapulted me to a new life as a permanent resident of Brasil. Life is a kind of a Mobius strip. I had helped give Jobim and Bossa Nova to the world.
Now, in 1985, Tom is interviewing Zingg (chic, nao?) for the August number of Walter Carelli's hip magazine, Status:
"- Depois, o David veio para o Brasil. E diz que foi por minha causa, mas na verdade ele vivia na praia, no Arpoador, jogando peteca e frescobol com meninas bonitas e nunca voltou.
End of Lesson
OK, class, that's all Professor Dave has in the lesson for today.
If you behave real well, sometime I'll tell you some more reporter's secrets like:
David Drew Zingg


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19 Sep 2018
This year's Summer Project, now in its 30th year, was a resounding success, with 164 young people attending our structured, participative and inclusive activity programme. The 4-week programme ran from Monday 23 July to Friday 17 August, for young people from aged 9 to 17 years.
The programme was designed to give local young people, from a wide range of backgrounds and ethnicities, the chance to develop confidence, respect for themselves and others, opportunities to learn vital skills and understand the importance of contributing positively back to society through a wide range of sport, art, practical skills, trips and training. The programme is especially valuable during the long summer holidays when, through boredom, young people may be tempted by involvement in negative activities, particularly those who were not going on holiday (which 57% of the members who completed the pre- Summer Project survey said they were not).
The monthly programme was designed to widely appeal, with a mixture of team games, sport, creativity and challenge, from 'Build a Giant Cake House' to virtual reality challenges, boxing and body painting.
In addition to all this, there were 3 fun trips out, including a trip to the former US Embassy in Mayfair where members were given a guided tour of the site and learned about the array of employment opportunities available there, and a 2-day trip to the Hemel Hempstead Snow Centre with our partner charity Snow-Camp, where six members tried out skiing or snowboarding.


A prototype is a preliminary model of something. Projects that offer physical products need to show backers documentation of a working prototype. This gallery features photos, videos, and other visual documentation that will give backers a sense of what’s been accomplished so far and what’s left to do. Though the development process can vary for each project, these are the stages we typically see:
Proof of Concept
Explorations that test ideas and functionality.
Demonstrates the functionality of the final product, but looks different.
Looks like the final product, but is not functional.
Appearance and function match the final product, but is made with different manufacturing methods.
Appearance, function, and manufacturing methods match the final product.
IceGPS RTKBox is a simple and eary to use RTK positioning device,it is small,light weight full-featured,easy to configure.this RTK equipm with its high-precission positioning technolou allows you to expand your RTK capabilities in automatic driving，unmanned aerial vehicles,precision measurement... etc.
Professional GPS + Beidou
High-performance ARM processor, 5-10HZ positioning frequency
433MHZ digital radio, communication range 3-5KM
Positioning accuracy: 2.5CM + 1PPM
Ranging accuracy: 10MM + 1PPM
Interface:SMA × 3, UART × 2, USB × 1
It requires two when RTKBox is working,one an a bare station and the other as a rover station,place the base station on the known coordinates of points,rover in a place that needs to be mapped.The two units begin to work at the same time .The base station receive the satellite data then through built-in data link,send that data and its own coordinates information to the rover station,rover station will joints the data from base station and the data from rover station,then give the high precise coordinates and elevation values of that point which the rover is placed.
Our RKBox can support NMEA0183, uBlox UBX, SPB...etc.data transport protocol Meanwhile,we have supported fight controller such as Pixhawk, DJI, Zerotech, JIYI,we will support more different type of flight controller in the future.
We have two types of built-in wireless data transmission module for you to choose from:one is one is 3DR 433MHZ,the transmission power is0.5w;the other one is LoRa 433MHZ,the transmission power is 0.1w.The
Maximam communication range for both is 3-5KM.
Directional attitude measurement
Through the PC configuration tools,set two RTKBox one as base station,one as rover station,switch both of than to directional attitude
Measurement mode and same working frequency. Place two survey antennas on the carrier(nmanned aerial vehicles,cars, tractors...etc)which you will be suing for your measurements.Set the base station on the tail of the carrier and rover station on the head of the carrier,for best carrier,for best vesults,two antennas need to be seprated at lease one meter or more.Use the double-ended direction attitude measurement cable connect directly to the differential serial ports of RTKBox.Turn on the
RTKBox,when the green lights of the two RTKBoxe stay solid,then that is directional attitude measurement mode.The rover station will outputs the
Azimuth angle which is pitch angle too,this will allow you to reach 1 degrees of accuracy.
A standard set of our RTKbox includes:
Center phase error of less than 2mm high-precision measurement type antenna(Base Station)
Center phase error of less than 2mm high-precision measurement type antenna(Rover Station)
Note: please use survey antenna for best results.
According to the marks on our RTKBox,connect GNSS to SMA interface,
For built-in data transmission antenna, need to use 433MHz, the gain is greater than 2db antenna.
Base Station RTKBox
Base Station GNSS antenna to be erected above the open space without high-rise buildings and trees block the place，Through the USB provideto RTKBox 5v power supply, When the RTKBox initial initialization is complete,The green and red indicator lights turn on at the same time, then turn off, and then the red light stay solid.
When the positioning accuracy of less than 3m, the green light stay solid, red light flashing.
Short press the positioning treasure black button.
If the green light is on, the red light is off and the reference position of the reference position is set successfully.
Rover Station RTKBox
During working process,be sure to operate in an open area ,this is not for indoor use.that no open space in the open environment,, To RTKBox access power, The green and red indicator light turn on at the same time, then turn off, RTKBox Initialization is complete.
Green light, red light flashes;At this point positioning treasure in single point positioning state.
The red light and turns off and the green light flashes, At this point the RTKBox is in differential positioning, Floating solution state, but did not enter the centimeter-level high-precision positioning.
When the Rover Station positioning Po into the differential fixed solution state,
RTKBox differential data serial port will output high-precision positioning information data, The data format defaults to NMEA and sbp formats, Data Protocol See Data Protocol Manual.
Risks and challenges
RTK Box has been developed nearly a year, We have go through 4 batch of working prototypes. For now, all the bugs and bad user experience design has been fixed in order to make stable.
Our custom firmware and app has been iterate many times. the firmware is almost done.
For mass production, We've cooperate with manufacturer who has actual experience of camera related project production, the whole team members will follow and join the whole process of manufacture like upload firmware, quality test.


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Famous Astonied Poems by Famous Poets
These are examples of famous Astonied poems written by some of the greatest and most-well-known modern and classical poets. PoetrySoup is a great educational poetry resource of famous astonied poems. These examples illustrate what a famous astonied poem looks like and its form, scheme, or style (where appropriate).
by Keats, John
...our counsel now, for Saturn's ear
Is all a-hunger'd. Thou, Oceanus,
Ponderest high and deep; and in thy face
I see, astonied, that severe content
Which comes of thought and musing: give us help!"
So ended Saturn; and the God of the sea,
Sophist and sage, from no Athenian grove,
But cogitation in his watery shades,
Arose, with locks not oozy, and began,
In murmurs, which his first-endeavouring tongue
Caught infant-like from the far-foamed sands.
"O ye, whom wrath con...Read More
by Milton, John
...heek distemper flushing glowed.
On the other side Adam, soon as he heard
The fatal trespass done by Eve, amazed,
Astonied stood and blank, while horrour chill
Ran through his veins, and all his joints relaxed;
From his slack hand the garland wreathed for Eve
Down dropt, and all the faded roses shed:
Speechless he stood and pale, till thus at length
First to himself he inward silence broke.
O fairest of Creation, last and best
Of all God's works, Creature in ...Read More
by Chaucer, Geoffrey
...is peynted proces seyd, allas!
Right for this fyn? O lady myn, Pallas!
Thou in this dredful cas for me purveye;
For so astonied am I that I deye!'
With that she gan ful sorwfully to syke;
'A! May it be no bet?' quod Pandarus;
'By god, I shal no-more come here this wyke,
And god to-forn, that am mistrusted thus;
I see ful wel that ye sette lyte of us,
Or of our deeth! Allas! I woful wrecche!
Mighte he yet live, of me is nought to recche.
'O cruel god, O dispitouse Mart...Read More
Dont forget to view our wonderful member Astonied poems.


text:
"Right now, I think there is a lot of reasons for optimism that the negotiations will be fruitful," Mattis told reporters.
Prosecutors say Deon Monroe Jones shot Capt. Scott Corwin in Savannah after Corwin fought back during an attempted robbery.
The Huawei phones could be used to gather sensitive information, according to U.S. intelligence agencies.
A Baltimore hospital says a wounded U.S. veteran has received the world's most extensive penis transplant.
The first of Monday's near-simultaneous attacks in western Badghis province hit army units in the district of Ab Kamari.
Veteran Lance Cpl. Enrique Salas' flag-draped casket was loaded into a hearse with a Marine Corps seal.
The Air Force is building a base for armed drones, a new front in America's battle against the extremist threat in Africa.
Although the Army will fall short of its recruitment goal, retention rates have increased from 81 to 86 percent.
President Trump claimed North Korea has agreed to "denuclearization." But that's not the case.
Rear Adm. Ronny Jackson was tending to injured military personnel in Iraq when he was summoned to Washington.
The Air Force would not comment on the report, and referred all questions to the White House.
Top military leaders dispute Defense Secretary Jim Mattis on transgender troops serving openly.
Since 2005, U.S. special operations forces have been conducting Flintlock joint military exercises in western Africa.
Facing increased competition from Russia and China, the Air Force is pushing to develop experimental technologies for combat.
Syria has accelerated its military campaign to retake all remaining enclaves in the capital and surrounding areas.
"Today marks the 10th anniversary since the Marines came and told me my son, Jordan Haerter, was killed in action."
ABC gave us a chance to speak with Jurnee, the 18-year-old military spouse who's making a name for herself on the latest seas...
T-Mobile is launching a new discount plan just for the military and their families on April 22.
Be armed with these tips before you sign that lease.


text:
During the 2019 Berkshire Hathaway Annual Shareholders Meeting in Omaha, Nebraska, finance titan Warren Buffet expressed his thoughts about Tesla’s online sales strategy and Elon Musk’s plans to start an auto insurance service for its electric cars.
While Buffet admitted that the practice of selling cars online has merit, he noted that such a strategy would not be enough to destroy traditional auto dealers, particularly those who take care of their clientele. Tesla has made it a point to remove dealers in its business model, with the company operating every one of its physical stores across the globe.
“Using the internet to shop for cars is like, you know, using the internet for shopping for everything. It’s another competitor, and there’s no question that people will look for better ways. It’s another competitor, but I don’t think it destroys the auto dealer who takes good care of the customers and is there to service the customers. It’s not an overwhelming threat, but it’s obviously something that’s going to be around,” he said.
The Berkshire Hathaway CEO was more cautious with regards to Elon Musk’s plan to introduce an insurance program for Tesla’s electric cars. The Tesla CEO confirmed the upcoming insurance program during the company’s first-quarter earnings call, and he has since provided a few brief details about the initiative. Among these is the idea that Tesla will be able to price its customers’ insurance accurately due to driving data gathered from customers. Buffet expressed a word of caution to Elon Musk in his reply.
“Actually, General Motors, the company, for a long time, (had a service) called motors insurance company and various companies have tried it. I would say that the success of the auto companies getting into the insurance business is probably about as likely as the success of the insurance companies getting into the auto business. I worry much more about progressive than all of the auto company possibilities that I can see getting into the insurance business. It’s not an easy business at all. I would bet against any company in the auto business being any kind of an unusual success,” he said.
Warren Buffet’s warnings to Elon Musk about the auto insurance business is coming from a place of authority. GEICO, one of the most notable auto insurance services today, is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway, which Buffet leads. Nevertheless, Elon Musk might know a thing or two about difficult businesses. Over his career, Musk started several disruptive companies, from Zip2 and X.com (which later became PayPal) to Tesla and SpaceX. All of these companies required Musk to work himself to the bone, but all of them saw success. The auto insurance business might not be easy, but a private space enterprise and an electric car company are not simple endeavors either. With this in mind, it might be too early to discount Tesla’s insurance initiative just yet.
Watch Warren Buffet talk about Tesla in the video below.

domain: finance


text:
Wipeout in Europe
Meanwhile, in Western Europe, government payers are shutting the fiscal spigot that used to finance generous drug benefits
under national health insurance, more than three quarters of which is subsidized from the public purse. Beginning in 2010,
the annual GDP per capita rise in outlays for medicines in the EU ground to a halt and has slipped into negative terrain since
then. Not only are company balance sheets trending red, so too are patient out-of-pocket costs. According to the OECD's latest
Health at a Glance report, the volume of such payments have increased by half in the 27 EU states since the recession began
Public debt loads at more than 100 percent of GDP, budget austerity, and the unsustainable social charges that feed it have
spawned predictions of a "lost decade" of revenue and profitability declines for Big pharma in Europe that will in turn choke
off any new biotech innovation, permanently sealing the region's fate as a marginal player in the global medicines market.
IMS forecasts that by 2016 only three European countries—Germany, France and Italy—will have a ranking on the top 10 world
markets list, down from five today.
"It's hard to be optimistic for any turnaround when the majority of the payers in Europe are technically bankrupt," says Peter
Tollman, senior partner and managing director of the Boston Consulting Group. Half of the world's spending on social transfer
payments takes place in Europe, while the region's economic output is only 25 percent of the world total. These numbers cannot
move farther apart without crowding out high-return public investments in research and innovation—investments that underpin
Europe's ability to compete against "cheap science" in the emerging markets. It is already happening, with possible withdrawal
of EU Commission funding for the Innovative Medicines Initiative (IMI), a novel, €2 billion discovery and development partnership
program—the largest in Europe—between governments and the industry.
Bloom off the BRICs
Prospects are brighter in the BRICs, yet their appeal has dimmed as the high-rent alternative to downsizing mature markets.
Under pressure to manage the expectations of a growing middle class, governments are responding by managing healthcare, with
foreign originator drugs a prominent target. China is dismantling preferential pricing for branded foreign drugs and moving
more products into a WHO-style essential drugs formulary; India and Indonesia have joined Thailand in actually enforcing that
"nuclear option"—compulsory licensing; and Turkey actively discriminates in holding up foreign drug maker certification for
local manufacture and distribution. Restrictive IP, price controls, and preferential "national champion" industrial strategies
are all geared to making domestic generics firms more competitive against the foreign multinationals. This is one compelling
reason for Big Pharma to stay active in the "pharmerging" countries, for the opportunity it provides to get intimate with
the future face of global competition.
However, learning to compete effectively in emerging markets is proving more costly than expected. To expand sales beyond
the traditional private-pay elite customer segment requires big ticket investments: in local manufacturing and distribution;
better on-site science; marketing that can tailor products for a diverse consumer base, often outside established urban centers;
new stakeholder outreach and partnerships; and in finding—and keeping—top performing talent. Because the fundamentals of big
populations and relative gains in disposable income are still there, 2013 should see continued uptick in Big Pharma sales
to the emerging bloc. The best performers will be the so-called "below the BRIC" countries like Indonesia and Saudi Arabia.
But the larger question remains: will bigger volume sales yield the profits companies need to counter Europe's price implosion
and continued regulatory uncertainty in the United States?
So goes Japan
And then there is the forgotten market: Japan, the aging, Asian Canada, but still the world's third largest in sales. The
biannual price plunge next appears in 2014, but there is an interesting story in the government's lavishly funded effort to
jump start a strong domestic vaccines business, capable of competing globally in research and production. Will it begin to
pay off in 2013, or is the picking winner model an anachronism?
Now, the good news
The last, best refuge of this industry is science—and after a spotty drought it looks like companies are once again delivering
the goods. The FDA approved a near record 39 new medicines in 2012, while the EMA is set to receive 54 new drug applications
this year, up sharply from 34 in 2010. More important, many of these products represent a significant therapeutic advance
in hard to treat areas like MS, rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, and hepatitis C. Likewise, the generic business is itself emerging
as a source of innovation in drug formulation and delivery, with complex generics that combine drugs in novel ways; Teva is
also a good bet to deliver the first biosimilar product approved by the FDA, sometime later this year.


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- This event has passed.
Artist Talk + Closing Performance: Ah New Riddim
September 16 @ 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Join us for a conversation about the development of Ah New Riddim with artist Christie Neptune on Saturday, September 16 from 4-8p at Cuchifritos Gallery + Project Space, followed by performances with special guests and invited audience participation.
4:15-5:30 – Talk + Q&A
6:00-7:00 – Interactive performance with Joseph Neptune (DJ Kul’Cha), Wayne Clarke (DJ Clark), Danell Nicholas (DJ X-Rated), and audience followed by a performance from Dancehall artist Ayana Sheree.
Ah New Riddim (2023) is the third and final iteration of the multimedia series Constructs and Context Relativity (2019-2023) by interdisciplinary artist Christie Neptune. The installation and interactive documentary examines the spatial-temporal relationship of memory and place embedded within the implosion of dancehall culture in East Flatbush. The film utilizes 80’s dancehall archival footage, the quiet of black subjectivity, and concentric interactive storytelling to expound the relationship between black globality and dancehall in the American urban. In a pivot around her embodied experience as a black Caribbean American, Neptune considers the potential of black popular culture in marking space. Can the axiologies and stories oscillating at the margins mark the discourse of Western logic positioned at the center, and how might this marking register in visual representations of the urban?
Christie Neptune lives in Brooklyn, New York. She received her M.S. in Art, Culture, and Technology from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and B.A. in Visual Arts from Fordham University. Neptune’s work has been exhibited at venues including: Gagosian, New York; We Buy Gold, New York; Martos Gallery, New York; Tilton Gallery, New York; Vox Populi, Philadelphia; the Bronx Museum of the Arts; and the Queens Museum, amongst others. Her work is in the collection of the Worcester Art Museum, Massachusetts. In 2021, she was awarded the Prix Medeos in connection with Grant Wahlquist gallery’s presentation of her work at Art-o-rama, Marseille. Her work has been widely discussed in publications such as 4 Columns, Artforum, Hyperallergic, the New York Times, Vogue, the Wall Street Journal, and the Washington Post. Her numerous awards and residencies include Cornell University’s \Art Award, LES Studio Program at Artists Alliance Inc, Light Work Artist-in-Residence, NYFA Fellowship in Interdisciplinary Arts, Smack Mellon Studio Residency, and the Bronx Museum of the Arts AIM Fellowship, among others.